Preparing a Cover Letter

>> If you had less than a page to promote yourself what would you say? Would you dazzle the reader? Would you jump off the page? Would you entice a hiring manager to want to learn more, and to want to meet you? The cover letter, sometimes optional, always a great opportunity. [ Music ] >> [Background music] The cover letter is a document sent along with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience, it's also a way for employers to screen applicants to determine who they might want to interview, and it's also a chance for you to get a little creative, to demonstrate your writing skills, and to emphasize things in a way that a formatted resume could not. First off, you want to make sure you address the letter to a specific person. With social media sites liked LinkedIn, Facebook, even the company's website, there's no reason why you can't find the appropriate person to send the letter to. Every cover letter should have a strong opening, a body, and a closing. But you want to make sure you keep it sisynced, because less than a page is highly recommended. The opening paragraph should accomplish a few things. Number one, if you were referred to the company by an employee, or if you have a personal connection to an employee, you should mention that right off the bat. You want to say something direct, for instance, why the job excites you and why you are perfect for it. For this, you will have to do a little research on the company and the industry. You also want to show a little personality and passion. You can't do that in a resume, so this is your chance, but don't try to be funny. Humor, sometimes falls flat. The body of the cover letter is where you highlight your skills and your experiences in greater detail, and how those line up with some of the job requirements. You want to make sure not to copy word for word, any job requirement information or any points off your resume, and, if there's some information that the company has requested, this would be a great place to include that as well. And finally, a call to action in the closing paragraph. A reminder of what you want, what you bring to the table, and how the company can get in touch with you. Remember to keep your letter in proper business format, and if your sending in a hard copy make sure to give it your old Herbie Hancock, John Hancock, John, sign it. [ Music ]