Tips for writing an effective Cover Letter

To write an effective cover letter you should really understand what a cover letter really is. Most times job seekers get confused between cover letter, application letter and job objectives.

What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is an application letter with a different purpose. An application letter begs for a job while a cover letter helps to tell who you are and advertises you, your skills, abilities and experiences.

The cover letter goes a long way in interpreting the information in your CV . The cover-letter should be able to emphasize the interest you have in the job and should be geared towards convincing the hiring manager that you are the best candidate for the job.

Makes reference to the qualifications listed in the job advert and explain how your skills, abilities and experience will be brought to bear on the new job if you are employed. Show a great deal of zeal in your employer.
The cover letter also helps to give you a human face. The letter may go a long way in convincing your prospective employer to read your CV in greater detail and thereby shortlist you for an interview. Ask for an interview or aptitude test.

Steps to writing an effective cover letter

Your address. This should be at the top right-hand corner of the paper and should have the following: Street number and name , city , state, phone, e-mail, date.
name of your employer and this should be at the bottom left hand corner of the paper and must contain the name of the employer, his title, organization, address, city, state
Dear Sir/Madam, start the letter by underlining the job title you are interested in

Introduction
The introduction of the letter should be short and brief. It is here that you tell the employer who you are, the position you are applying for and how you become aware of the vacancy in the company.

Body
The body, as the name suggest is the heart of the letter. It is here you are supposed to sell yourself. Focus your writing on the experiences, abilities and skills that are relevant to the job advertised for. Explain how you will bring your experiences, skills and knowledge to bear on the new job. It is here you convince your employer to shortlist you for an interview or aptitude test. This is the area where you interpret your CV/Resume. Make sure your assertions are tailored towards the requirements of that job.

Finally, bring the letter to a conclusion by thanking the prospective employer for accepting your CV and application and request for an interview and aptitude test.