I didn't have time to write a short letter, so I wrote a long one instead. - Mark Twain
A properly written job application letter, or a cover letter, is an effective way to get a potential employer's attention and to convince him or her to read your CV. It clearly explains why you are a suitable candidate for the job.
Features of a Good Cover Letter
1. Constructive, positive and optimistic.
2. Focuses on the potential employer’s needs - clearly connects qualifications, skills and experience to the advertised position.
3. The first paragraph causes reader’s interest and attention. 4. Has subject line or “RE:” to refer to the position a person is applying for. 5. Consistent font size (e.g. Times New Roman 12 or Arial 9).
6. No italics (italics is hard to read), no bold text (except some special words) and no columns. 7. No contracted forms (such as it’s or can’t), no exclamation marks, emoticons or other symbols expressing emotions. 8. Short paragraphs. 9. Not a summary of CV or Resume. 10. Tells the truth. 11. Does not have “To Whom it May Concern”. 12. Maintains consistency and contains appropriate spaces between lines and paragraphs. 13. No typographic or grammar errors.
14. No more than one page long (3-6 paragraphs).
A Sample Cover Letter
Dear Dr. Hiring,
Re: Research Assistant
You emphasize a combination of requirements involving written and verbal skills and computer expertise in your search for a research assistant. With this profile in mind, I offer my credentials for your review. As English major and Computers minor, I seek opportunities to connect the quantitative and qualitative aspects of business. In your position, I see the possibility to offer my proficiency with computer applications along with communication and proofreading skills developed through teaching and tutoring. I believe that the following aspects of my background are most relevant to your position: • Introduction to practical business operations involving exposure to client development, organizational communication and computer applications. • Experience as a writing fellow tutoring grammar issues and proofing assignments. • Expertise in verbal communication including public speaking skills developed through teaching and lecturing at educational institutions. I would be happy to discuss your position, learn more about your business and demonstrate the match between your needs and my talents. Yours sincerely,