[Solution] Cover Letters—Do They Still Matter?
Created at:
Author: Ryan Smith
A cover letter should introduce your résumé, highlight your strengths in terms of benefits to the reader, and request an interview. Follow your judgment when deciding whether to write a brief or long cover letter.
Choose the best cover letter opening for a solicited job.
- Dan Brown told me that you guys are seeking a marketer to do some work on a marketing campaign. I've enclosed a summary of my qualifications if you would like to look them over.
- Dan Brown, a member of your marketing team, told me that FedMax is seeking an experienced marketer to work on a new product campaign. Enclosed is a summary of my qualifications that demonstrate a readiness for this position.
- An individual from your company told me that FedMax is seeking an experienced employee to work on a new product campaign. I've enclosed a summary of my qualifications that demonstrate a readiness for this position.
View Explanation
When writing a cover letter for a solicited job, make sure you refer to the job title, and describe how your qualifications fit the requirements. Also, refer to the exact source of your information. Avoid overly informal language.
Choose the best cover letter opening for an unsolicited job.
- I hope you are looking for an experienced researcher in the field of pharmaceuticals. Can you use someone like me with my credentials and experience?
- Congratulations on your recent merger with GenX. Because of your rapid growth and success, could you use the services of a practiced researcher with 5 years of experience in pharmaceutical sales, 3 years of university teaching experience, and 2 years of successful research experience?
- Because GenX is a large company, I thought perhaps you might need someone who could contribute to your pharmaceutical department. Could you use someone with my sales, research, and teaching experience?
View Explanation
If you are unsure whether a position actually exists, use a persuasive opening, and demonstrate an interest in and knowledge of the reader's company or organization. Make sure you refer to the job title, and describe how your qualifications could benefit the company or organization.
Choose the best statement for the body of a cover letter.
- I have successfully completed courses in business, finance, and accounting.
- Courses in business, finance, and accounting have enhanced my knowledge of successful business management practices and client financial services.
- The courses I took in business, finance, and accounting have enhanced my business knowledge.
View Explanation
Use the body of your letter to promote your qualifications for the position. Explain how your preparation and experience fulfill the stated requirements. Describe your strong points in relation to the needs of the employer, and avoid merely listing courses you took without connecting them to the position and the company's needs.
Choose the best statement for the closing of a cover letter.
- Of course, I am the best candidate for this position. Your company would be lucky to have me as an employee. My three years of experience in a fast-paced office environment, my practiced organizational skills, and my attention to detail more than qualify me for this position. Please call me at (435) 463-3642.
- Thank you for giving me the opportunity to briefly present my qualifications. I am confident my skills and experience will benefit your company. I hope you will call me soon so we can talk. I can be reached at (435) 463-3642.
- I am confident that my 3 years of experience in a fast-paced office environment, my proven organizational skills, and my attention to detail will benefit your company. If you see that my qualifications are a match to the position, please call me at (435) 463-3642 before 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m. for an interview.
View Explanation
Conclude your cover letter by asking confidently for an interview. Suggest reader benefits, or review your strongest points. Avoid asking for the job or appearing presumptuous, and remain sincere and appreciative. Supply your phone number and the best time to reach you. Avoid expressions like I hope. These weaken your closing.
How can you motivate action in the closing of your cover letter? Check all that apply.
- Avoid wishy-washy expressions like I hope
- Ask for the job
- Supply your phone number and the best times to call you
- Avoid suggesting reader benefits
View Explanation
Using the expression I hope weakens your closing and suggests lack of confidence. Your cover letter should project confidence and clarity. Be sure to supply your contact information and the best times to call you.
