Step 1 - The Salutation
- Address the letter to a name: "Dear Mr. Jackson." If you can't obtain the information by calling the company, use a title: "Dear Advertising Manager."
- Make sure the company address on your letter matches the one on your envelope.
- Open with a sentence that grabs the reader's attention. For example, explain how your skills uniquely qualify you for the job or that you are enthusiastic about the position or company.
- State what position you are applying for and where you learned about the job.
- Mention any contacts you have at the company by name and title: "Kim Jones, a coordinator in the Marketing Department, suggested I contact you.
- Be specific without repeating everything that is on your resume.
- Briefly explain important career achievements.
- Define how you can contribute to the company's success. How do your skills make you stand out?
- Repeat words and phrases the employer used in the ad. Use bullet points to highlight your greatest strengths.
- Talk about any additional skills that you have (be brief!).
- Show you have done research on the company by demonstrating how your background can help you meet current company objectives.
- State your practical work experience (as it pertains to the job; no one needs to know your entire teenage work history).
- Use bullet points to highlight your greatest strengths (if you have not already done so).
- If you are applying to a higher-level or executive position (VP, Manager, etc.), you might want to include a fourth paragraph that gives more details of your achievements and background.
- For an entry-level job or non-executive position, you probably don't need another "background paragraph."
- State when and how you will follow up on your letter: "I will call during the week of June 19th."
- Don't ignore a request for salary requirements-but be cautious. Give a broad range or write "negotiable."
- Thank the employer for reviewing your materials.
- Remember to sign your letter in black or blue ink! Other colors don't look professional.
- List your phone number underneath your name. It makes it a lot easier to find.
