What to Say in Your Cover Letter

What to Say in Your Cover LetterWhat to Say in Your Cover LetterWhat to Say in Your Cover LetterNo matter how much advice is out there, a lot of job seekers still seem baffled by the concept of using cover letters. They wonder if they really need a cover letter (yes) if it should just repeat whats in the resume (no) if it has to be customized for every job (yes), and how long it should be (1 page max). But the burning question, the one that really seems to gets peoples knickers in a twist, isWhat should I say in my cover letter?Clue Wagons Kerry Sandberg Scott (yesterdays guest blogger) puts it this wayReally think about why you want this particular job, and why your experience makes you the one they should call first. This doesnt have to be long, because you want to save something for the interview. It just has to show them that you really did read the ad, that you understand what theyre looking for, and that you might be the one they need.6 Key Cover Letter ElementsIn order to conv ey that message effectively, there are six things you must include in your cover letter. The table below shows the six must-have elements for an effective cover letter, and gives anexample of how you might express themWHAT TO SAYEXAMPLE1) Who you are and how to contact youJulie Jobseeker44 Bearfoot RoadNorthborough, MA866-486-4660jjobseekeryouremail.com2) Which job youre applying for and how you found itNew Business, Inc.123 Main StreetSpringfield, MA 01110AttentionHarold Von HirerRE Plant Manager Position posted on JobBoard.com3) Why youre interested and enthusiastic about this job at this organizationDear Mr. Von HirerAs my attached resume indicates, I have spent the past four years as a Plant Coordinator at Former Company, and the prior three years as a Line Manager with Smith Company. These roles have given me the multi-faceted expertise to successfully take on the Plant Manager standort at New Business. This opportunity is especially attractive because I share your commitment t o the local community. As a longtime volunteer at the Springfield Shelter, I have seen firsthand how your corporate contributions directly impact peoples lives.4) What relevant experience or transferable skills make you a good candidateMy expertise aligns exceptionally well with your job description, and Im proud of my track record. At Former Company, I continually sought ways to streamline processes, reduce scheduling conflicts, and minimize downtime. During my tenure, production rates rose steadily, achieving an overall 33% increase between 2005 and 2009. Im confident I could achieve similar results for your business.5) That youd like an interview I welcome the opportunity to meet with you to explore how my skills and experience could best meet your teams needs.6) That youre grateful for being consideredThank you for taking the time to consider my candidacy. I look forward to your call.Best regards,Julie Jobseeker