How to write a Cover Letter

• You should write a different cover letter for each job application.
  
• Recruiters want to know why you are targeting her/his company and are likely to be impressed if you have taken the time to learn about the job and company.
  
• Check the duties and qualifications of the job and tailor your cover letter to match these. For job listings that are short and vague, draw from your personal research of similar employers to infer what skills and abilities might be required.
  
• Analyze your background in relation to the job duties and qualifications. Think of areas where you have performed similar duties to the current job posting. Employers want people who can add value to an organization.

What to Put in A Cover Letter

• The cover letter's body should focus on the employer's needs and highlight your skills and how they relate to the desired employment position.
  
• What makes you different from the other 50 people who are applying for the same position?
  
• Try to create phrases that sell yourself and set you apart from other applicants
  
• If possible, refer to a specific job opening
  
• Never copy any part of a published cover letter - the style and content will not be original and it will reflect poorly upon your own intelligence

What Paper and Font to Use

• Use the same type of paper for your cover letter as you do for your resume
  
• Make sure that your resume is scannable
  
• Each cover letter should be an original, typed on one page.