Key Factors to Give the Best Shape to Your Resume & Cover Letter, Part 2
(What Resume Format To Use....and More!)
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Introduction
Before you start writing your first paragraph, you may want to know who you are writing to. In writing a resume, you did not have to do this as there was no need to address anyone in particular in creating that document. Personalizing your cover letter though makes it more appealing. So, use the name of the company’s hiring personnel and use it in your greeting.

Good Introduction Sample
“Dear (name of contact)” is a much better way to start your letter.

Bad Introduction Samples
“To whom it may concern” is not desirable. If you want to annoy a hiring manager, then use this one.
“Dear Sir” or Dear Madame” sound so ancient. No one uses this introduction now.

Introduce Yourself
The first paragraph of you cover letter is where you introduce yourself and convey the reason why you are applying for the job position. This part should also be used in explaining how you have learned of the job posting. A brief statement about your interest in the position is a good addition. A short presentation of some interesting information may also be included here. You may want to present a glimpse of your college degree, expertise/area of study and career goals.

Highlight Your Skills, Educational Attainment and Professional Experiences
The second paragraph of your cover letter should be effectively used to highlight your skills, educational attainment and work history. If you are a fresh college graduate or someone who lacks employment history or career accomplishment, you may want to put emphasis on your college and internship achievements, as well as special skills that are relevant to the job you are targeting. If you have a lot of contents to include, a third paragraph may be necessary. Be sure though that you are highlighting only the information that have relevance to the company, its goals and the job they are trying to fill.

Closing Paragraph
Your closing paragraph should have a call-to-action factor. It should draw the reader’s attention to the fact that you are highly qualified for the job. Being a bit bold on this part is a good thing. Include a sentence about following up on a specific date, that usually does the trick. Lastly, let them know that you are grateful for the chance to be considered for the job position.

Special Tips in Formatting Your Cover Letter
There are special formatting techniques in writing a resume, the same is applicable for cover letter writing.
• Use 12-point font. Lower than 12 points is not good for the eyes.
• Use a professional font style and avoid using the fancy ones. If it is possible, match the font styles being used by the employers.
• Keep the alignment uniform throughout the letter. Left-alignment is recommended.
• Use keywords to satisfy the ATS – this stands for Applicant Tracking Systems that are currently being used by companies in filtering job applicants.
By formatting your cover letter properly, you are presenting yourself as a true professional. Hiring managers and recruiters are very meticulous with cover letter formats as they want to determine who, among the applicants, really deserves to be interviewed and must be considered for the job.

 

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