The WOW factor – Create an amazing cover letter in 6 simple steps as follow:

1. At the top left hand corner state your name, address telephone number and date. Like this:

YOUR NAME
YOUR ADDRESS
TELEPHONE NUMBER
DATE

2. Below your personal information, include the employer’s or interviewer’s name, title, company’s name and address in the order listed below:

Mr./Mrs. EMPLOYER’S NAME
TITLE OF EMPLOYER/INTERVIEWER
COMPANY’S NAME
COMPANY’S ADDRESS

3. Then just below that, address the employer by, Dear Mr./Ms.s, and the employer’s name.

The opening of your cover letter should immediately tell the employer the job that you are applying for. This should be no more than 2-3 sentences. Also make sure you state the exact position you want to be considered for, why you are interested in the position or would like to work for the company. The opening paragraph is the most important, because it will determine if the employer call you for an interview or not. It will also get your resume noticed, which could also lead to an interview and possibly a position with the organization.

5. The next paragraph should include your qualifications for the position in question. Be sure to highlight your most relevant qualifications that specifically relate to the job and kind of work you’ll be doing for the company. Include your experiences, accomplishments, and the qualities that match the position in question. The second paragraph is usually the longest paragraph. However this can be broken down to two parts if it is too long.

6. End your cover letter in 2-3 sentences by referring the employer to your attached resume and requesting an opportunity for an interview. Don’t forget to thank the employer for reviewing your cover letter and resume. Then end the cover letter with:

SINCERELY,
YOUR NAME

Helpful points to Remember when Creating a Cover Letter

• Make sure you research the company.
• Learn about the position that you want to be considered for with the company.
• Design your cover letter to match the position and the qualifications that is required by the employer.
• Tailor your cover letter to match each position that you apply for.
• Make sure your cover letter is free from mistakes.
• Make your cover letter short and to the point.
• Sign your cover letter and attach it to your resume.

Friends, remember effective cover letter explain the reason for your interest in job opening & the organization itself. Make sure you use quality paper that matches your resume and clean envelopes. Always keep your letter short, simple & clear. Follow these simple tips & your resume will stand out from the crowd.
Good Luck

Following are some tips for creating a brilliant cover letter that will land you the job:

1. Avoid brightly colored paper and fancy fonts

A cover letter is not a flyer so use a business font such as Arial. Use plain white or beige paper and print your cover letter and resume on a laser printer – smudge free!

2. Include a personal salutation

Instead of addressing the interviewer with “To whom it may concern” you should address the letter to a specific person. This gives the cover letter a more personal touch and demonstrates resourcefulness.

3. Address the specific position advertised

If a company advertises that it is looking for someone with experience in retail, make sure you address your retail experience.

4. Keep it short and to the point

Limit your note to three or four short paragraphs. Explain why the job is a perfect fit for you and what you can contribute to the company.

5. Be confident but not cocky

Don’t start off with “My professional resume is included if you would like to take a look at it.” You just told them you are not sure if your resume is worth taking a look at. Instead say something direct and casual like, “As you can see in my resume, I’ve worked in sales and retail for ten years.” Be confident about your resume and expect them to read it.

6. Showcase your best assets

Expand upon a few key points from your résumé that matches the position you are applying for. It could be something like how you helped to create a successful marketing strategy or whatever fits into the potential employer’s needs.

7. Don’t leave doubts

You can also include in your cover letter any issues that may give a hiring manager doubt about hiring you, such as gaps in employment. Briefly explain the reasons why you were not working and what you have been doing to keep your skills up-to-date.

8. Be honest

Try not to stretch the truth too much. Just highlight the key points about your accomplishments and stick to the truth. A minor misrepresentations like saying you managed a store when you actually co-managed it, for example can come back to haunt you during the reference check.

9. End your note with confidence

Since you are the one looking for work, you need to take the initiative and follow up. Instead of ending the letter with “I look forward to hearing from you,” close with “I will call you in a few days to discuss a time for us to meet.” And follow-up as promised.

10. Check for typos

Typos and grammar mistakes are a big NO and is a sure way to take you out of running for a job opening. Double check your final copy or ask a friend or family member to review the document before you send it out.

When well-crafted to suit the position, a cover letter can give you a significant edge over the competition. So don’t miss your chance to make a strong first impression and set yourself apart from the rest of the crowd.