Where are all the Jobs?: 4 Tips for Writing an Interview-Winning Cover Letter

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

4 Tips for Writing an Interview-Winning Cover Letter | Career Rocketeer

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4 Tips for Writing an Interview-Winning Cover Letter

Posted: 23 Aug 2011 03:30 AM PDT

As we all know, when in the midst of a job search, writing a great resume is just the tip of the iceberg. It’s just as important to create a cover letter that will entice hiring managers to invite you in for an interview. In this competitive job market, your cover letter needs to be more impressive than ever. So if you’re in the process of writing yours, here are four tips to help you win that interview:
Tip #1: Address a Specific Person
Your cover letter should always be as personal as possible, and this is made easier by addressing the person who is in the position to hire you. If that person’s name wasn’t listed in the job posting, take time to contact human resources to find out who it is. You’ll be happy you did!
Tip #2: Lead With an Interesting Fact or Solve a Problem
Your introduction is undoubtedly the most important portion of the cover letter. It dictates whether the manager will be interested in reading the rest of your document. A great way to introduce yourself in your letter is to market yourself with a statement that addresses a problem that you are ready to solve. You could also share an interesting fact about yourself to entice the manager to read on.
Tip #3: Show That You and Your Industry Are a Perfect Match
As you move through your cover letter, it’s important to show that you know your industry. For instance, if you are in the biotechnology field, consider adding specific keywords like laboratory data, protocols, or even cGMP studies if they fit.
Doing this, along with giving examples of how you can help further the industry as a whole with your wealth of experience and knowledge, is crucial. But ultimately, your job is to show that you understand what the company is looking for in a candidate—and that you are the person it needs to get the job done.
Tip #4: Mention Unique Strengths or Awards
Before you close out your cover letter, it’s important to reiterate your strengths and emphasize that you’re the absolute perfect person for the job. You could add information about any specialties you have in your industry or mention recognition you’ve received.
The idea of the cover letter is to stress just how strong a candidate you are for the position you desire. If you can get this job done, you’re likely to score the interview that leads to the job of your dreams.
For more great tips on resume and cover letter writing follow us on Twitter @GreatResume.

Author:
Jessica Holbrook Hernandez is an expert resume writer, career and personal branding strategist, author, speaker and President/CEO of Great Resumes Fast. She creates high-impact, best-in-class resumes and cover letters that transform job searches into interviews and ultimately job offers. For more information about professional resume writing or to read more career and job search related articles visit http://www.greatresumesfast.com or call 1.800.991.5187.