"Most people would prefer not to write a cover letter," says Nancy Buysse, a Twin Cities career consultant and facilitator who conducts a variety of career planning and transition workshops. "They're not sure what to put in it."
Buysse calls the cover letter "a dotted line to the résumé." It doesn't need to be lengthy, but it should be specific, she says. A handout prepared by HIRED, an employment and job-seeking organization that Buysse works with, suggests a three-paragraph approach.
Paragraph One
"Your goal is to spark interest and let the reader know why you are writing," according to the handout. "You need a strong opening," Buysse adds. "Tell them why you want this job."
Paragraph Two
"Your goal is to relate your qualifications to the job requirement. Remember to expand on your résumé - don't restate it," the handout continues. Buysse says the cover letter can be the place to note things that aren't on your résumé but that are relevant to the job. Break through your writer's block by writing in bullet points or creating columns of job requirements matched by your credentials.
Paragraph Three
"Request action. Ask for an interview appointment," says the handout. End on an active note, rather than a lame "I look forward to hearing from you."
