A cover letter accompanies each resume and it is sensible to devote the needed time and effort to write effective cover letters because the cover letter may either assist in obtaining a job interview or result in having the resume rejected. A cover letter should complement the resume. Its main objective is to interpret the data-oriented details and add a personal touch. A cover letter creates the first impression, which is the earliest written contact with a potential employer.

Generally there are three types of cover letters. The application letter that responds to a known job opening, the prospecting letter that inquires about possible positions and the networking letter that requests information and help in job search.

The cover letter to be written should be drafted based on the purpose and also the position sought. A cover letter need not be sent to every potential employer. An ideal cover letter explains the reasons for the interest in the company and highlights the relevant skills or experience. Cover letters express a high level of interest and knowledge about the position.

In a cover letter the first paragraph should explain why a cover letter is written, middle paragraph should explain what the applicant has to offer and the concluding paragraph details how the candidate would follow up.

While writing about the purpose of writing a cover letter, the person who referred to the potential employer-the mutual contact needs to be mentioned. It is to be mentioned from where the title of the position was obtained and the enthusiasm and the credentials suited to the position have to be explained.

In the case of a prospective letter, which is an unsolicited letter, it is important to capture the attention of the reader and the objective of the job should be stated very clearly. In a networking letter, the request should be made very clearly.

The cover letter should be like a preview to the resume which is dynamic and attention grabbing. A cover letter is the summary of the most important and relevant information in the resume.

Since the cover letter should contain information in an accessible manner, it should be clear, concise and to the point, personalized, catching the attention at first sight, linking the skills and experience and call for an action.

One opportunity to make a good impression and enter the second round is the first glance at the cover letter. It is rather difficult to write a targeted cover letter to each position applied for cover letters pave the way to get a better access to the interview regardless of the qualifications.

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