Glamazon reader Necia asks: What advice would you give as far as how to write a cover letter? Great question!
Whether you’re going for a job or an internship in fashion, an amazing cover letter is especially helpful in standing out among the myriad of candidates. A well written cover letter can make up for the experience that you might lack on your resume, especially if you are trying to break into a new field.
But it is an undervalued skill. Some people choose to skip the cover letter altogether, which can sometimes feel less professional and polished. Others can overdo it and end up overwhelming the hiring manager.
So, what exactly should you do to strike the perfect balance? Here are some tips on how to write a cover letter:
Research, Research, Research
When writer Aliya King gives advice to freelancers trying to pitch to a publication, she says that if you haven’t read past six months’ issues, you probably shouldn’t be pitching anything. Well, it’s the same when writing your cover letter. Write something that shows the person reading, this isn’t a generic letter that you send to every job posting on Ed2010. What’s the company’s mission statement? The history? Who’s the employer’s demographic?
What, Exactly, Is The Job Description?
Make sure that you when are applying for a job/internship you not only qualify but state those qualifications in the letter. If you don’t have the experience the employer is looking for, explain why you are the best person for the job. Not only does the employer want to know what exactly to learn from the position, they want to do want you will do to make the bosses job easier. How will you do that? You need to explain.
Please. Don’t Address The Letter To Whom It May Concern. Format it correctly and google if you have to.
In your research, you should really try to find out who exactly you are sending your resume and cover letter to. If you can’t find it, reach out to someone who might. It really gives the cover letter a personal touch, and shows you aren’t so lazy you can’t look up who could possibly be your boss.
Proofread. Out Loud. Seriously, it makes a difference.
Cater it to the job you’re applying for. Research “buzz words” and terms used in the job description that communicate immediately you’re the candidate the employer is looking for.
Include quotes from former bosses with favorable feedback.
Make it creative especially if you are looking for a job in writing.
The resume is formal and standard but the cover letter can have more personality.
Good luck!
xoxo,
Glamazon Channing
Yes I agree, research is one the most important parts of a cover letter, you also need, as stated in the article, try your best to address the letter to a specific person and not to "to whom it may concern" although this is not always possible. The rest is common sense, break it down in paragraphs, don't make spelling mistakes and so on.