How to write the perfect Cover Letter.

Advice from Jeffrey Maltzman, the author of Jobs in Paradise.

While a few employers require you to write and request their official  application form, most welcome applicants to send a cover letter and resume. (Regardless of how you apply, a short cover letter should always accompany your application.)  The purpose of your cover letter is to introduce you to the employer. It serves to tell the employer which specific job you seek and whether or not you will consider other positions if they are offered.  Your cover letter should call attention to your relevant job skills and creatively emphasize how your skills will benefit the employer.

As tempting as it might be to write on the funky fluorescent pink paper your college roommate gave you last Christmas, forget it! A cover letter should always be neatly typed in a professional business format on good quality 81/2" X 11" white bonded paper. (An example of a basic cover letter follows at the bottom of this page.)  Your cover letter creates the employer's first impression of you.

You want the letter to demonstrate in both form and style that you are a neat, organized, efficient, and intelligent applicant. Submitting a letter in fancy script type or on purple paper is a clear sign to an employer that you don't know how to behave in a professional environment.

A cover letter should be attention-getting, short, and concise.  It should never exceed one page; often a far shorter letter will suffice.  Begin your letter by introducing yourself and stating the position for which you are applying. If you want to increase your chances of being hired, specify other positions you would consider. Most employers believe an ideal applicant is someone who knows what position he or she wants but is open to considering other jobs that better suit the employer's needs.

Next, your letter should specify the date you can be available to start work and how long you are willing to commit yourself to the position.  The more flexible you can be in your start and finish dates, the better your chances of being hired.  Possible phrases to explain your starting dates might read:

• As I am currently finishing my junior year at Anystate University, I could be available to start work alter (date).
• While I would prefer to start work after (date), I can be available immediately if necessary.
• I can be available immediately should you need someone on short notice.
  

If you are going to be in the area where the employer is located for any reason (vacation, etc.), mention when you expect to be there and request a personal interview. While most of the employers in Jobs in Paradise do not require a personal interview (many conduct phone interviews), a personal interview usually increases your chances of landing your dream job.

Next, explain how you believe your qualifications meet the employer's needs. Most of the employer listings in Jobs in Paradise detail what qualities the company looks for in applicants. Thus, use your cover letter to detail how your resume reflects those qualities. The important key here is merely to highlight your resume. Don't bore the employer by simply rehashing what is already on your resume.

Just because you have never worked as a front desk clerk at a resort before doesn't mean you lack the qualifications for the job. If you have past work experience with the public, or experience dealing with money and figures, point that out. Obviously, both people skills and money-handling experience would be important traits that any employer would consider valuable in a front desk clerk applicant.

Finally, conclude your letter by thanking the employer for his or her time in considering your application and express a hope for a prompt response. Never tell an employer that you will call in a certain number of days to discuss your application. While such follow-up phone calls are generally a good idea, mentioning a call in your letter can make you seem overly pushy and aggressive to some employers.

The following cover letter is a sample of the letter Vince Redman used to land his job as a shore excursion ma;nager aboard Norwegian Cruise Lines SS NORWAY:

Date

Dear Sir or Madam:

Enclosed is a copy of my personal resume briefly outlining my background and qualifications for your consideration. I am seeking a challenging position of responsibility as a shore excursion manager on a cruise ship where my experience and abilities as a tour director and coordinator can be effectively
utilized. Any entry level crew position will also be considered.

Please note on my resume both my training and background. I have practical experience in selling, organizing, and implementing tours for groups ranging in size from two to a thousand or more. I am confident that I can do a professional and productive job for you on one of your ships if granted the opportunity.

I would appreciate the opportunity for a personal interview with you. I may be reached at the above address or by calling (phone number). I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Vince Redman
Enclosures: Resume & Photograph

Copyright 1999, Jeffrey Maltzman