Although it is not always required, sending a cover letter to an employer is an excellent way to introduce yourself and your resume.  It is important, though, that your cover letter is not merely a summary of the same information presented on the resume. The key is to make a connection to the employer and describe for them what makes you qualified for the position and deserving of an interview.  If possible, you’ll want to start by reviewing the employer’s job advertisement in detail so that you are able to tailor your cover letter to their requirements and/or preferences.

A cover letter is usually formatted using three paragraphs.  The first paragraph should tell the employer the position you are applying for, where you learned about the opportunity, and ask that they consider your enclosed/attached resume to be considered for the opportunity.

The second paragraph should provide a brief summary of your skills as they relate to the position you’re applying.  In this paragraph, it is important that you match your skills and qualifications to those that the employer requires and/or prefers as described in their advertisement.  For example, if the employer seeks someone with a Bachelors degree in Accounting, five years of experience in the accounting field and prefers that you possess experience with QuickBooks and Peachtree Accounting systems, you should highlight this information in this paragraph if you possess these skills, experience and/or level of education.  You may also want to tell the employer why you’re applying to their company specifically and use information obtained from your research to let the employer know what impresses you about the products and/or services they provide.  Perhaps you learned that they were recently awarded with a special award or participated in a community event that you support as well.

Finally, in the third paragraph, take the time to thank the employer for considering you for an interview and provide them with information about how they may best contact you.  Be sure you don’t forget to sign the letter.