Your cover letter should not just be seen as an introduction to your resume. You mustn’t rely too much on the content of your resume to get you the job you need. Sure you have all the qualifications that the job requires, but so does tens or maybe hundreds of others.

What you need is a good cover letter that attracts the attention of the reader right away and guides his or her attention properly to your resume. Before even having the chance to read your resume, your cover letter should already create a mindset. The reader or the hiring manager should already be thinking about you as a good candidate.

But basically a cover letter should accomplish a lot of things, here are some of them:

• Your cover letter should explain the reason why you are sending them your resume. It should specify the position that you are applying for. Sending a resume without a cover letter is a big no-no. Your cover letter will specify what it is that you indeed want, what you look forward to and what your intentions are. And also, it will show why you are the best person for the position.

• Your cover letter should be able to communicate well with the reader. It should be well organized, well written and error free. This will show that you are a professional and you have the goods that they need and want.

• Your cover letter should inform them where you learned about the vacant position or where you have learned about them. If someone recommended the job to you, then it is appropriate that you mention the name. Companies spend money on marketing and advertising, they want to know which reached you.

• Your cover letter should entice its reader to move on to your resume after reading your cover letter. Since your cover letter will come first, it will shape the impression of the reader about you. If you seem interesting and you have what they need, they would be more serious in looking and reading at your resume.

• Your cover letter should showcase your personality. It should show what kind of a person you are. Of course you will want to put your best foot forward. So tell them about your strengths and your weaknesses, and how they will be able to help the company.

• Your cover letter should highlight your abilities and skills. This will give the reader the chance to weigh you. If you indeed is the right person that the position needs. Be specific, showcase your background that fits the bill of the position.

• Most importantly, your cover letter should indicate how serious you are about the job. It should show that you want the job and you are willing to take it.

Making a cover letter that connotes professionalism and the ability to do what is needed is your edge among the others. You may all be qualified but writing a cover letter that will make you shine will make you rise above the rest.

Take the time to write and rewrite your cover letter until perfection. Evaluate yourself and see what needs to be included. Remember to keep your cover letter short and specific, your resume should just be able to explain the rest.

Image taken on 2007-08-23 13:33:30. Image Source. (Used with permission)