Dear Career Coach. I have fifteen resumes to send out and I need a
generic cover letter. Will you write one for me? Jackie.
Dear Jackie, I understand your concern, but what you really need are
15 cover letters.
Letters must reflect individuality, be targeted for the open position,
be brief, and stand out from mass mailings. If you want individual
attention, you must respond, “individually.”
Generic form letters are usually a sign of mass mailings and a signal
you will accept any job. Not what an employer wants to read, when
there are hundreds of applicants. Address the letter to a name and
title; and, write a dynamic opening paragraph. The second paragraph
should focus on the required skills of the position and how your
skills and accomplishments match. The closing paragraph includes a
call to action - how you will follow up, rather than waiting for their
response. Show initiative.
Interesting cover letters are a showcase of written communications
abilities. It is also an indication of career history as it applies
specifically to one company. No two cover letters should be the same;
job descriptions differ and any letter should answer the following
simple questions:
• What can I do for your company?
• Why do I want to work for their company?
• Why am I qualified for this position?
Evidence of research and interest is inherent with this method.
Research indicates how individual achievements and skills fit the
company culture. Grab attention in the cover letter by using numbers
or qualifiers. A brief statement or bullet about number of employees
managed or customers served, budget or cash responsibility can make
the difference. It is all about marketing you.
Keep cover letters brief. Eliminate the ‘I’s and articulate clearly
specific which will connect with the reader. Use bullets to make the
cover letter easier to read. When hiring managers have hundreds of
documents waiting for them, they appreciate easy to read, brief, and
to the point letters.
A cover letter must always accompany a resume. Many applicants think
if they are asked to send resume by fax or email, a cover letter is
not necessary. That concept is false. An emailed or faxed resume with
a separate and enclosed letter is an indication of business etiquette
and play the game by the rules.
Short on experience? Emphasize teamwork, responsibility, and ability
to follow directions as they relate to a job description.
Cover letters are a powerful tool in any job search arsenal.
Give it
your best shot.