How to Write a Cover Letter.

Generally, we have come to understand that most job seekers have problems with drafting a proper cover letter, one of the most widely asked questions is : "What is a Cover Letter".  I will put you through on this and also show you a sample template which you can always use in applying for jobs.

According to Google, A Cover Letter is defined as "A letter sent with, and explaining the contents of, another document or a parcel of goods."

A cover letter typically accompanies each CV/resume you send out to provide additional information on why or how you are qualified for the job you are applying for. 

Effective cover letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific job in an organization and identify your most relevant skills or experiences. 

Your cover letter could make the difference between obtaining a job interview and having your resume ignored, so it makes good sense to devote the necessary time and effort to writing effective cover letters.
A cover letter should complement, not duplicate, your resume. A cover letter is critical in creating a very good first impression.

Cover letters are generally one page at most in length, divided into a header, introduction, body, and closing 

Below is a template/blueprint I have suggested for you in writing your cover letters:

APPLICANT ADDRESS

RECRUITER ADDRESS 

SALUTATION

Dear [insert name of recruiting manager],

BODY

First paragraph: Mention the job you’re applying for and where you found the job listing.

Middle paragraphs: Discuss your qualifications. These paragraphs should be specifically tailored to requirements posted in the job listing. You might also consider including why this specific company interested you in the first place. Limit this section to two to three paragraphs.

Final paragraph: If you are going to follow up in one to two weeks, mention a specific date. If you would prefer to leave the ball in their court, say that you look forward to discussing your qualifications further. Also provide your email address and phone number. Don’t forget to thank them for their time.

CLOSE

Best Regards,

[insert your name]

Also, below is a Sample real world Cover Letter that follows the template above:

                                                                                                             

Munachiso Michelle Arachie

20 Second Ave.

Surulere, Lagos

April 7, 2013

The Human Resource Manager

XYZ Company

123 Central District.

Abuja, Nigeria 

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am interested in the Coordinator position advertised on ABC Media. Given my related experience and excellent capabilities I would appreciate your consideration for this job opening. My skills are an ideal match for this position.

As a professional administrative assistant with excellent research skills, I am eager to contribute my abilities and experience to XYZ Company. Given my extensive training and background, I believe I can help XYZ Company meet its goal of providing only the most accurate and timely information to its clients.  

Please find enclosed my resume and a list of my references. Feel free to call me at 1234567890, to arrange a time to meet. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Munachiso Michelle Arachie.

Difference between a Cover Letter and an Application Letter.

Afterwe discussed cover letters, a lot of job seekers have been asking me the difference between a Cover Letter and an Application Letter.
I admit the difference between those two documents is quite subtle. In fact, most articles you'll find online will compound your confusion. However, I have done a great deal of research on this, just to break down, simplify and explain to you, the difference between  a Cover Letter and an Application Letter.


Here are some important points to note about the difference between both documents:  

1. In their simplest form; A Cover Letter as the name implies, can cover any kind of document--a report, a CV/résumé, a budget, application package, even an application letter!, while an Application Letter is specifically an application for seeking a job.
2. An application letter is often intended to stand on its own, and basically contains your qualifications and describes a bit of who you are and what you have done, as well as, your objectives and why you want to apply for a job. Whereas a cover letter generally can't be the applicant's only document submitted to express interest in a job opening. A cover letter typically accompanies each resume you send out. A cover letter should complement, not duplicate, your resume. Its purpose is to interpret the data-oriented, factual resume and add a personal touch.
3. A Cover Letter is usually a page you have typed in the format of any business letter in which you introduce yourself to a perspective employer. While an Application can sometimes be a form that is given by a hiring company or person in which you would fill in information asked for on this form that would often be included in a resume.
4. Many employers will ask you to write to them perhaps in the form of application letters when they advertise jobs. Sometimes you will be asked to send your CV or resume. Your CV or curriculum vitae lists your educational and career history and is a useful summary for an employer of all your educational and employment achievements up to the present time. You must always ensure that it is up to date. A covering letter may then be very useful because you can enclose it with your CV or the completed application letter. In your covering letter you can then draw attention to particular information which you wish to highlight in the other documents it covers (application letter or CV).
5. Finally, however, to clear your doubts, cover letters can also sometimes be used as application letters.

Send questions to:
arachieconsults@gmail.com