Cover letters (both e-mail and “snail mail” versions) frequently are your written first impression. The goal of a cover letter is to get you to the next stage in the application process … NOT to “close the deal.” Here are a few things to keep in mind when writing cover letters:
Keep it short – generally no more than three to four short paragraphs
Tell the recipient three things
Why you’re writing
Why you think you’re a good candidate to help them
What you suggest as the appropriate “next steps”
You don’t need to say everything about yourself, just the basics. Leave the rest for the interview.
Use the same "key words" you see in the job description, position advertisement, or company website, if they describe your talents.
Don’t assume familiarity … address them as “Ms. Jones” or “Mr. Smith” unless you already know the recipient personally.
