1. Pay attention to the specifics of formatting
Make sure that your heading, date, and paragraphs all begin and end in the correct place. Make sure that your signature and salutation are properly placed. Look online or in books for a certain template and format and do not deviate from it. Do not create your own template; use one that is well known and is popular. Most importantly, make sure that the cover letter is properly addressed to the proper person and that you address the letter to that person properly. Make sure you use his/her full titles, including degrees and honors. This will show the receiver of the letter that you pay close attention to details and that you have researched the job to which you are applying.
2. Do your homework
It is your job to know exactly what your potential employer is looking for in a new employee. This includes skills, experience, and knowledge. In your letter you should specifically and explicitly describe how you meet the qualifications that they outlined. Do not simply tell them that you are proficient in something. Show them that you are great at it. Use specific examples, numbers, and industry-standard buzz words, that will allow the reader to perfectly understand what you have done in the past and more importantly how this makes you the best candidate for the job that they are looking for.
3. Don’t repeat and recycle your resume
If your potential employer was looking for a second resume, then they would be asking for a cover letter. Be sure that your cover letter does not simply repeat everything from your resume. It should not read like a list, but rather as a narrative of why you are the best for the job you are applying. It should ultimately build upon the qualifications you listed in your resume with more specific examples and descriptions.
4. Be clear and specific
You do not want someone to finish reading your letter and say “Huh? What did I just read?” There should be nothing that is confusing or unclear within the confines of your cover letter. Nothing should be implied or hinted at it. Everything should be explicitly outlined and written. This is not the time to me modest and vague. It’s the time to be detail oriented and descriptive down to the very last detail of why you would be a great asset to the company to which you are applying.
5. Proof Read!
Nothing comes off worse than a cover letter filled with spelling mistakes and errors in grammar and syntax. Any error you make is a direct reflection upon you. Often times this is a reflection of carelessness. Do not risk being put in the toss pile because you could not take the time to reread your cover letter. Constantly, proof read during the entire process of writing from start to finish. Edit small sections separately so that you do not become overwhelmed and have a friend or peer edit as well to get anything that you may have missed.
