Cover Letters v.s Application Letters©
By W.I. Leiva
A cover letter as the names implies explains to the reader the contents of what is to follow. Like a book cover illustrates the contents of a novel; the cover letter should illustrate your worth as a potential employee.
In addition cover letters that accompany a resume and/or an employment application should also endeavor to secure a meeting or interview with the position's recruiter. Therefore the cover letter, in this context should really be referred to as an application letter.
The application letter should convince the recruiter that he should review your credentials further. Just like the resume, the recruiter will be evaluating you and your writing skills; therefore this document should be written in acceptable business language that is easy to understand and that is free of spelling and grammatical errors.
The
format of the letter should be that of a basic business form. Your name
and contact information should appear at the top of the page followed
the date then the potential employer's name and contact information.
If you are able to get the recruiter's name then you submit the letter
to his attention.
The body of the letter should be concise no more than three paragraphs. The first paragraph should be an introduction and in it should explained how you heard of the position.
The second paragraph should specifically state why your qualifications match the requirements of the position. In this paragraph you should elaborate on the contents of your resume and it is your opportunity to convince the employer that you posses "that little extra something" that makes you stand out of the crowd and that will ultimately benefit the employer.
The
third paragraph is your closing. Its goal is to secure a meeting or
follow up. Advice that your resume and application for employment are
included. End by thanking the employer in advance for considering you.
- In summary application letters: should be included along with employment applications and resumes instead of cover letters.
The goal of the application letter is to secure a meeting, by convincing the recruiter that you;
- Posses the necessary skills for the position
- Are motivated and able to do the job
Sample Application Letter:
Your Name
Street Address
City, State Zip Code
Phone Number
Date
Individual's Name
Job Title
Name of Organization
Street Address
City, State Zip Code
Dear Mr./Ms. ________________________________:
First Paragraph:
Second Paragraph:
Third Paragraph:
Sincerely,
(Your Signature in blue or black ink)
Your typed name
Enclosure
