The Cover Letter
The cover letter is a most useful tool which surprisingly few job seekers take advantage of. A poor one is like not having one at all, so be aware of the possibilities of a good letter.
Three paragraphs is the minimum needed; a full page is the maximum. The first paragraph should be a statement of transmittal and intent: "Enclosed find my résumé in application for the position of clerk advertised in Sunday’s Journal." This leading paragraph can stand as it is or be expanded with additional statements like, "I was pleased to see that your company was hiring again and am excited at the prospect of working for you." Or, "This position sounds like it could be the exact job I have been seeking for some time now." Or, "I have five years of experience in this field and have been reading about your recent entry into this market."
The second (and third if necessary) paragraph is the opportunity paragraph. First, state that you do have the qualifications the job requires. "I type 75 wpm and my communication skills are excellent. I’m sure I will prove to be an excellent employee."
Secondly, since it is impossible to describe all of one’s experiences in a résumé, an applicant should have more background information to relate. You can provide proof of your worthiness by relating a specific incident, describing some coursework or talking about your past. "I have been interested in this field every since my second quarter in college when…." Flesh out your background or if you have more than a one page résumé, summarize your background. Explain why you are the right person for the job.
In the last paragraph mention when you would be available for an interview. Recite your phone number again and thank them. "I am available for interviews only on Tuesdays and Wednesday, but please feel free to leave a message for me on my home answering machine at 697-4328. Thanks so much for your time and consideration." Or, "Since I presently travel during the week, I am very difficult to catch. Please leave a message for me at 697-4328 and I will return your call as soon as I can." (This can give you an opening to call them later. "I hadn’t heard from you after I sent my résumé and I was concerned that I might have missed your message.") You can even say that you will call them in two weeks unless you hear from the employer before then. If the interviewer is forewarned, he will be more receptive to talking to you when you call.
You certainly can get interviews without sending a cover letter, but including one that you have just written will impress an employer. If it gives you the opportunity to hammer home the central idea of "I am perfect for the job", then do it!
Here’s an actual cover letter by a student while still in school:
March 30, 1999
481 North Street
Athens, Georgia 30606
Manager
P.O. Box 7380
Athens, Georgia 30604
Dear Sir or Madam:
Please accept my resume in application for the clerical position you advertised in Sunday’s Athens Newspapers.
I am presently attending school at Interactive Learning Systems for a degree in administrative support. I already have basic computer skills and will be taking other software classes as my program continues. I am sure that I will prove to be an asset to your company since I possess the basic computer skills you require and have the potential and desire to learn and grow with your company.
I am available for an interview most days so please do not hesitate to give me a call to set up an appointment.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe