The Job Search Process is like anything else in life. The better you play the game, the more likely you will “win.” The key is to know what employers are looking for from potential candidates. In general, they are seeking someone who is knowledgeable in their field, who acts the part of a professional, and who is willing to go the extra mile.

   At all points during the game, you are being tested on these three basic requirements. How you respond to these tests will determine how likely you are to land an interview. The trick is to know when someone is “evaluating” you. For example, if someone says “send me a resume”---this is a test to see how much initiative and common sense you have. Because of this, you should always make the extra effort of writing a cover letter.

   Whenever you send out a resume or any professional packet, a cover letter must accompany it. The purpose of the letter is to personalize your resume for the employer, demonstrate your writing/communication ability, and elaborate more fully on your qualifications for the position.

   There are two basic type of cover letters, the inquiry letter and the targeted letter. The inquiry letter is often sent out to those companies you are not sure if there is a specific position available. With this kind of letter, what you are really asking: “Do you have any positions that fit my qualifications at this time?” Obviously this is not an effective use of your time, since most employers will not make the effort to try to match you up with available positions.

   Writing a “targeted” letter requires more energy and time but generates more positive results. A targeted letter asks the more direct question: “Will you consider me for this particular position?” You should always strive to tailor your cover letter for each position that you apply for, as generic letters rarely catch an employer’s eye.

   Employers often admit that the cover letter is just important as the resume in deciding who to bring in for a personal interview. In fact, you should invest as much time, effort, and thought for your cover letter as your resume. Since the cover letter is the first thing he will read, make it personable, persuasive, and tailor-made for the position you are applying for. First impressions are lasting impressions. The standard is for the letter to be limited to one page, organized into three main parts (the opening, body, and closing), and laser printed on paper that matches your resume.

   The opening paragraph should grab the reader’s attention, explain why you are writing to them, and how you heard about the position. The body of the letter should communicate the way in which your skills and experiences will be of value to the employer. This is where you sell yourself by highlighting specific information related to the position. At this point, you also refer them to your enclosed resume.

   The closing paragraph should indicate the step you will take next. Here, you will either directly or indirectly ask for the interview. If you take the direct approach, keep in mind the type of job you are applying for, as it may or may not be appropriate. For instance, when applying for a sales job, you might say something like, “I will call you in two weeks to set up a time for us to meet.” The indirect approach is taken by reiterating your interest in the position and leaving information on how they can contact you to set up an interviewing time. You might say something like, “I look forward to talking with you in person and can be reached by telephone or e mail.”

Some additional tips for writing an effective cover letter include:

*Address your letter to the person responsible for hiring (make sure to get their title, name)

*Organize your letter in standard business letter format (block style with double spaces between paragraphs)

*Show how what you have to offer can meet the needs of the employer *Write each letter individually for each job you apply for by researching the company *Proofread, edit, proofread

*Sign your letter

   By taking the extra time required to tailor your cover letter to the position, you have the opportunity to demonstrate your attention to detail, initiative, and commitment to doing a thorough job, which will undoubtedly communicate to the employer that you are the perfect person for the job.