If you’ve been in the job market for any length of time you’ve heard people discuss the ins and outs of cover letters. Some people swear by them and others believe they are fully extinct and unnecessary. But cover letters have evolved and it’s important that you use this tool to your advantage as you search for your next job opportunity. What are some of the newest ways that cover letters can play into your job search?

What Is the Perfect Cover Letter?

A cover letter is really the first way you can connect with a potential employer. One of the most important things to know about the modern cover letter is that it no longer has to be formal. Today, the email you send along with your resume will be sufficient as your cover letter, but you still need to compose that message.

You want to write a cover letter that will encourage the recruiter or hiring manager to pick up the phone and contact you directly.

What to Include In Your Cover Letter

· Keep it short. Your cover letter should be just a couple of paragraphs. The easiest way to keep it short is to write three short paragraphs. The first is an introduction that shares how you heard about the position. The next should be how your background fits into the job description. The third should reiterate your interest and provide contact information.

· Make it personal. Your cover letter should always be personalized to the individual who will be receiving it. If you have the name of the hiring manager, address the email accordingly. If the information is not included in the job description, you may be able to figure it out through LinkedIn. If you can’t, don’t ever use “To Whom it May Concern.” Instead, simply write “Good Morning” or “Good Afternoon.”

· Highlight your accomplishments. It’s also important to showcase how your experience can specifically benefit the company. You can do this by describing one or two accomplishments that specially fit in with the requirements they are looking for at the company. This is a perfect thing to include in the second paragraph.

Do You Want More Help in Your Job Search?

Contact NPM Staffing to learn more today.