Cover Letters

Do you need to send a cover letter with your resume? Yes. What about if the ad doesn't specify cover letters? Send it anyway. Even if I'm faxing a resume and using a fax cover sheet? Absolutely.

Why send a cover letter? A good cover letter is designed to get an interview. One reason is that you will stand out (in a positive way) from the applicants that don't bother. Second, it gives you another chance to sell yourself. This is your first opportunity for the potential employer to get to know you. If you are responding to an ad, it's a chance to address each of the employer's job requirements. Finally, if you're the only person who doesn't include a cover letter, you'll look lazy.

Here are a few tips:

1. Write the letter yourself. A letter written by someone else will sound like them. So have your brother, the English major, help you. But, don't have him write the letter for you.
2. Tailor each letter to the potential employer. This is your first opportunity to stand out from the crowd. Make the most of it.
3. When responding to a newspaper ad, use your cover letter to address each job requirement listed. You can bold, italicize or underline key words for emphasis.
4. Limit your letter to one page. Mention anything pertinent that's not already on your resume, but keep it short.
5. For a professional look use the same bond paper for your cover letter and resume. Stick with white or ivory.
6. Proofread your letter carefully. Make certain there are no typos, no spelling errors, etc. Have a friend check it too.

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