How to Write a Cover Letter

cover letter for resume free download job interview question how to search jobs employment letter sample

Several job seekers are curious how to write a cover letter; A letter that does not get thrown in the trash. This is understandable.  

A cover letter is usually read before the resume, and it better be good and get to the point.  Within 4 to 6 seconds of viewing (not reading), a cover letter will determine if the resume is worth reading. I said reading, not skimming. 

Click here, to skip this page and get access to a cover letter in a resume package. To view a cover letter included in a package, visit the product page to watch a short guide.  

The Chronological package also includes a What to ask in an Interview Guide and Form.  This guide and form can be used in a phone job interview, as well as an in-person interview.

If a cover letter is too long, a recruiter and hiring manager will not read it.  I would not read it. Don’t take it personal, they don’t know you. They receive several cover letters from applicants asking for the same job.  What is too long? More than one page.


Tips for How To Write A Cover Letter

  • Line Spacing: 1.5 line spacing is easier to read than single space
  • Font Size: 10 to 12
  • Simple Fonts: Times New Roman, Cambria, Georgia, Verdana, and Garamond
  • ATS KEYWORDS:  keywords can improve your chances for job interview and get noticed by Application Tracking Systems (ATS), which means it will get noticed by hiring managers.
  • Should be ONE page (Most managers will not read a cover letter over 2 pages)
  • Use Bullets: Get to the point. Use bullets to briefly describe your qualifications and accomplishment (education, experience, volunteer activities and any relevant information pertaining to the position)  
  • Include “measurable” accomplishments, such as “ increased sales by 18%, in second quarter”
  • Do your research: relate yourself to the organization - offer what you CAN DO for the employer  
  • Ask, Ask, Ask:  Make a bold move and ask for an interview or a 10-minute phone conversation. During the phone or virtual interview, sell your skills, qualifications and what you can do for the company
  • Be clear on what position you are responding to and/or how you learned about the position, if applicable

The guess work of learning how to write a cover letter for resume and job applications are solved, by any package in the Resume Format Store.  A cover letter is included in each package. 

It is suggested that the first paragraph in a cover letter include your response and interest to the position and/ or company.

Important Tip for How to Write a Cover Letter: Opening Paragraph

When composing a cover letter, you want to be clear on why you are writing the employer. This is time to get to the point, don't waste their time.  Employers, usually will skim through the letter to see what skills can be useful to the organization.  Some employers will not read the resume if the cover letter packs a punch.  Yes, this happens.

Using keywords always helps.  

“This letter is in response to the Manager position on the company’s website.  Attached you will find my resume providing details of my credentials. I am familiar with your company’s culture, sales methodology and have an interest in utilizing my skills and experience at XYZ company."

“In response to the job opportunity on the company website, I have enclosed my resume. I have followed XYZ Company with great interest and have enjoyed the business engagements the company has participated in over the years.”

Ready to build a cover letter?

There is no hard and fast rule for how to write a cover letter. However, as a hiring manager myself, I have received several cover letters, and if they are too long or do not have keywords, my colleagues and I would "skim" through them.  

Cover Letter in Packages

The cover letter for resume and job applications, is an editable and downloadable template with Application Tracking System (ATS) friendly keywords. The keywords in the template are suggested for that letter and subject matter.  Watch the short guide on the product page to learn more. Click here to visit product pages.  

Follow us on Twitter for tips and techniques to prepare for a job




Help a friend prepare for a job.  Share this page.