COVER LETTERS

A guide to writing a cover letter

What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a document which accompanies a resume!
In this writeup, we demonstrate the way of a well written cover letter.  We  hope this will  provide some knowledge about the parts of a cover letter, and  will enable you to generate interest from a hiring manager/ employer.

Parts of a Cover Letter
A good cover letter should have the following 5 parts to meet the standards required.

Part-One
 Salutation (Greeting): Get a name, any name. By hook or by crook try to get a name.  If you  can not, then try To whom it may concern or Dear hiring manager.
Dear Hiring Manager:

 Part-two
Opening (the Grab): The opening paragraph is your introduction and presents the reader with some immediate and focused information regarding the position you are applying for and a few important  competencies that indicate your  strength and suitability. Take this example;
Having worked as an operations and general business leader, I am writing to express my interest in (name of position] with (name of organization). You will see on the enclosed resume I turned around an under-performing business, substantially improved productivity and employee morale, and possess critical and creative thinking skills that will facilitate my swift contribution to your sustained growth.
Part-three
Second Paragraph (the Hook)
In this paragraph you should define some examples of the work you've and the results achieved. It should be connected to your resume. Give some key competencies that you feel define your success.

In this way you are highlighting some information not contained in the resume.  This is the best place to cover the unique values you have. Use bullets to define key areas of achievement, highlighting  what you are bringing.
Take this example: My professional experiences include my recent position with ---- Company as ------ Manager, and previous positions with ---- Corporation, and ------ Organization. In all of my roles I guided the professional development of staff and gained consensus for the adoption of new ideas due to my demonstrated ability to clearly present value added recommendations. The following is a brief sample of the expertise I offer:

•     Conceptualized and implemented an innovative business strategy whereby inventory was maintained at vendor locations, resulting in the effective use of a ---- system and annual savings of $550,000 for ---- Corporation.
•     Established internal operating procedures that reduced employee downtime by 20%. In addition to conducting cross-training initiatives, I fostered an environment predicated on accountability for results, which improved the team’s commitment to the attainment of short- and long-term goals.
•     Conducted industry and competitive analysis while at ABC Corporation, which enabled senior leadership to analyze potential acquisition opportunities. After contributing to the due diligence process, three targets were pursued, and resulted in one successful deal. From working with attorneys, investment bankers, and CPA’s, to serving as a key liaison to senior leadership, my recommendations were successfully implemented.

 Part- four

Third Paragraph (Paragraph Of Knowledge): In this paragraph, demonstrate something you know about the company that prompted you to write. This indicates to  the reader that you did some preliminary homework and understood the company’s  goals.
Take this example:After researching ------ Company, I  have understood your immediate goals of improving business performance and establish key benchmarks within [Name of Industry]. Your recent acquisition of [Company Name], puts you in a position to gain market share and establish a unique brand presence with potential and existing customers. Given my professional qualifications, I am in a position to  quickly help you achieve your goals.

 Part -Five

 Fourth Paragraph (the Close) : In this last paragraph quickly you have to summarize what you offer and close by either suggesting a meeting or indicating that you will call in a certain number of days. If you choose the latter approach, make sure you follow-up within the time frame you have recorded.


I bring a tool kit comprised of leadership, strategic planning, and analytical skills; and I would be pleased to review my credentials with you to personally explore how I can contribute as a member of your senior leadership team. Please feel free to contact me at the number above to arrange a time to speak.

Yours truly,

Full Name
Enclosure: Resume

It is that! We believe the template  above provides  the most important parts to any cover letter you may wish to write.

Good luck!!