How to Write a Cover Letter?

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is usually an introductory letter that is sent with another document or application. Cover letters are sent with job applications, grant proposals, business proposals, academic admissions essays and statements, other official documents such as notices, and along with project proposals, business documents or with parcels or package of goods. A professional cover letter that is sent along with the resume or job application serves as an introduction to the applicant's distinct skills set, experiences and qualifications. The cover letter sets the stage for the application process and introduces the applicant in a concise and precise manner.

What is the purpose of a Cover Letter?

The cover letter is meant to serve an introductory purpose and introduces the applicant providing a brief summary of his or her skills, expertise, qualifications and interests. The cover is meant to be both an introductory and supplementary piece of document that contains information that are either too elaborate or are not given in the job or academic application. Thus the cover letter serves a dual purpose. It introduces the applicant in a more concise manner, and it provides extra or supplementary information that may not be available in the original application.

How to write a Cover Letter?

A cover letter must serve the dual purpose of providing introduction about the applicant and it must also provide any extra or supplementary information that may have been omitted in the original application. The steps to writing a cover letter include providing the detailed contact information with your name, email address, phone number, online profile, web address and other details. Address the cover letter to the relevant manager, executive or concerned individual and provide the details at the beginning. Use a precise summary or statement to introduce the topic. If it is about an application, mention that in a one line or brief statement.

After the summary statement, refer to the context or provide background information on how you acquired information about the application or opportunity. Then provide an introduction about yourself, refer to your application and provide a detailed summary on what your application is about. Respond to the job description or the relevant opportunity (it could also be a housing or academic application) and make a strong case as to why you are the most suitable candidate for the position or opportunity. Finally provide additional details or supplementary information such as your interests, or hobbies that may project you as a unique or interesting applicant. Sign off after a strong conclusion that will compel the reader to consider your application or document. Always edit, proofread and it's best to write more than one draft.

What are the different types of Cover Letters?

Cover letters can be for a job application, for a housing lease, application for an academic study or for grants or loans. Cover letters can in fact serve several different purposes and the types of cover letter would vary, depending on the type of application that it is meant to support. Cover letters can vary according to the format or style. Although cover letters have a basic, general format, this can vary slightly according to the nature and purpose of the letter. Cover letters for your first job experience as a high school student for instance will be slightly more informal when compared with cover letters that you send out as an executive or manager. Cover letters sent with academic applications also tend to be more personal than letters sent out with job application. A letter with housing or loan application is usually more technical with relevant details or figures that will convince the reader.

Concluding Remarks

A cover letter is an additional document that you send with an application, and is meant to enhance your application and make it look more relevant, unique, interesting or suitable for the position or opportunity. The cover letter supports the information available in the application or proposal and provides additional facts or information to make the application more comprehensive. Cover letters are meant to introduce the applicant and add more details to already provided information, or add information as supplementary material to the submitted application. Cover letters can be less formal than the application or proposal and are meant to highlight the personal side of the applicant. However for certain job or loan/financial applications, cover letters often remain formal. Adding individual style to the cover letter can bring out the creativity and originality of the applicant and increases his or her chances for consideration. Go ahead and write your original cover letter that is different, creative, unique, has its own style and a letter that can make an impact on the reader. Contact custom cover letter writers to learn more about cover letters and learn how a cleverly crafted cover letter can increase your chances of getting that dream job.