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Cover Letters: Create a Competitive Edge in the Job Market

A Curriculum Vitae, is more commonly known as a cover letter or CV. A cover letter is the hook that gains an employer's attention. It is the vital piece of paper that precedes the resume and says something about you, your qualifications, and experience. A cover letter is like an interview, only in written form. It highlights the best of you and your skills. When an employer is inundated with dozens of resumes, or several hundred, the cover letter can set you apart from the competition and give the impression that you are a serious contender.

What Should a Cover Letter Contain?

This is your opportunity to make an impression on your prospective employer, so take time to write well! A cover letter should be simple, concise, and powerfully written. This is not the time to be verbose, so make sure that what you write is purposeful and straight to the point. It should also follow a business letter format, free of grammatical and conventional errors. There are four components to a cover letter, usually written in four distinct paragraphs.

What Position I am applying for: The first paragraph informs the employer what position you are specifically applying for and how you heard about it. This can be achieved in a few concise sentences.

How I am Qualified: The second paragraph is the most important component of the cover letter. It is the paragraph that describes your skills, achievements, education, and related work experience. Also it tells the employer why you are qualified for the position.

Company Culture: The third paragraph lets an employer know you've done your homework. Take a moment to research the company you're trying to work for. Find out what the company values are, their mission statement, and type of management philosophy they follow. Then write a compelling paragraph highlighting how you will be an asset to their organization.

Call Me, Email Me, Just Reach Me!: The final paragraph is your opportunity to do three simple things: thank the employer for their time, tell them you look forward to speaking with them soon, and most importantly how to reach you.

When you take the time to write a well thought out and concise cover letter, you tell the employer you are serious. So take the time to toot your own horn and tell the employer how vital you are to their organization!

Learn more about this author, CL Nelson.
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