7 Tips for Writing a Top Notch Cover Letter

Cover letters are absolutely necessary for job success; there is no doubt about that. However, how can you make sure your letter stands out from the crowd? How can you urge a person to hire you merely by presenting one single letter of introduction? Do not underestimate the ability of a great cover letter. If it is composed professionally, you will be one step closer to success. So below are 7 cover letter tips for you that you can either take advantage of or disregard. Keep in mind that a good advice is not effective unless it is put into action.

· Submitting Your Cover Letter - Cover letters in general include an explanation of who you are and why you are presenting them to a particular person, with courtesy. Fundamentally, you are writing and passing them if you are not going to meet the hiring manager face to face for the first time. Yet, if you are going to shake hands with the hiring manager, non-verbal introduction such as your cover letter is not that important. In this situation, you can hand in your resume without the cover letter.

· Cover Letter Message - Most job seekers are having trouble on deciding what to include in their letter. There are 4 major subjects that should be handled in the letter. First, you should state what position you are applying for. But then, if you are only inquiring for a job's availability, you can say what type of job you are interested in. Second, state how you learned about the vacancy. Third, explain why you are the right person for the job. And lastly, write your contact info.

· Cover Letter Type - Cover letters come in several various types. The right type of cover letter for you is the one that shows the type of job search counseling you are requesting. It should be able to highlight your purpose on writing to the reader. There are many available templates for the cover letter. This can be a good medium to help you get started.

· Cover Letter Format - The content and presentation of your letter should be formatted. Whether you are applying via email or through snail mail, properly arranged cover letter is very essential. Technically, it should be clear and free of errors. In addition to that, the letter should be custom fit. Though this can be time consuming, it is still important to spend time and effort on composing a personalized cover letter to display your interest.

· Email Cover Letter - Applying online is more in trend today than passing your cover letter and resume to prospective employers via snail mails. In passing an email cover letter, it is significant that you follow the instructions given by the employer. For instance, if the instruction tells to submit the documents in Adobe PDF files, do so.

· Employment Gap - Employment gap is usually inevitable. If you have gaps due to laid off and unemployed, explain this in your cover letter as short as possible. Your cover letter gives you the opportunity to explain yourself so take advantage of it. Also, explain shortly as hiring managers only glance at them. Do not waste your time and also your reader's time on lengthy cover letters.


Landon Long is the founder of InterviewMastermind.com. You can download his FREE "Resume Rebel" Video Course to learn how to write a resume and stand out in a slow economy.