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Cover Letters and Resumes
COVER LETTERS
When you are applying for a job, an impressive cover letter along with an equally good resume is vital. The cover letter you are writing should be specific to the position you are applying for, relating your skills and experience to those noted in the job posting. Your cover letter is the best chance for you to make a good expression. It pays to improve the way you present your cover letter. Our website also contains the cover letter samples; you can review it and get the idea about writing the cover letters. An effective cover letter should explain the reasons for your interest in the organization and in the job you are applying for. Take your time to review sample cover letters, then make sure that your letter explains how your skills relate to the criteria listed in the job posting.
Writing effective cover letters
Often writing a cover letter seems like a particularly daunting task. However, if you take it one step at a time, you'll soon be an expert at writing outstanding letters to go with your resume. A cover letter accompanies each resume you send out, which means that it should be tailored to reflect the requirements of the particular job applied for. After all, it is your cover letter that may make difference between obtaining a job interview and having your resume thrown into the trash bin. So, it will be wise investment to devote time and effort at writing effective cover letters.
A good cover letter should complement your resume rather than duplicating it. The purpose of the cover letter is to interpret the data-oriented, factual resume while addressing a personal touch to it. You better make it a good one as it is your critical first impression upon a potential employer.
You cover letter should reflect specifically each purpose outlined above as well as each position you seek. Do not design a form letter and send it to every potential employer. You need to customize it according to the specifics of the job you are applying for. Effective cover letters reflects the reason for your interest in the specific organization and identify your most relevant skills or experiences. They should express a high level of interest and knowledge about the position you are seeking for.
SAMPLE COVER LETTER - Programmer Analyst
Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State, Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email
Company Name
Address
City, State Zip Code
Dear Hiring Manager:
This letter is to express my interest in discussing the Senior Programmer Analyst position posted on the Company's web site. The opportunity presented in this listing is very appealing to me, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education match the requirements for this position. The key strengths that I possess for success in this position include, but are not limited to, the following:
- I have successfully designed, developed, and supported live applications.
- I am a self-starter.
- I am eager to learn new things.
- I strive for continued excellence.
- I provide exceptional contributions to customer service.
With a MS degree in Information Systems Management I have a full understanding of the full life cycle of a software development project. I also have experience in learning and excelling at new technologies as needed. My experience includes but is not limited to:
- Customer service and support
- Programming both new applications and maintenance work
- Problem isolation and analysis
- Software quality testing
- Application and requirement analysis
- Process improvement and documentation
Please see my resume for additional information on my experience. I can be reached anytime via my cell phone, 333-333-3333. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.
Sincerely,
First Name Last Name
Letter of Interest/Prospecting Letter
A letter of interest, also known as a prospecting letter or inquiry letter, is sent to prospective employers that may be hiring, but, haven't listed a specific job opening to apply for. Your letter should contain information on why the company interests you and why your skills and experience would be an asset to the company. Also provide information on how you will follow-up and where you can be reached.
Sample Letter of Interest / Prospecting Letter
Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State, Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email
Date
Name
Job Title
Company
Street
City, State Zip
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,
I read about your company's retail management training program in ABC Magazine and I would like to inquire about the possibility of openings.
I am interested in a career in retail management and am planning to relocate to the California City area in the near future. I would be interested in learning more about the company and about available opportunities.
I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Management and Business, as well as retail experience as a Sales Associate and Key Holder. In addition, I completed two internships focusing on retail management.
My resume, which is enclosed, contains additional information on my experience and skills. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss the training program with you and to provide further information on my candidacy. I can be reached anytime via my cell phone, 333-333-3333.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this exciting opportunity.
Sincerely,
Your Signature
Your Name in full
The primary differences between a resume and curriculum vitae (CV) are the length, what is included and what each is used for. A resume is a one or two page summary or your skills, experience and education. While a resume is brief and concise-usually a single page, a Curriculum Vitae is a longer (at least two pages) and more detailed outline.
A CV includes a summary of your educational and academic backgrounds as well as teaching and research experience, publications, presentations, awards, honors, affiliations and other details. In Europe, the Middle East, Africa or Asia employers expect to receive a CV.
In the United States, curriculum vitae are used primarily when applying for academic, scientific or research positions. It is also applicable when applying for fellowships or grants.