Looking for a job? Feel like writing a long cover letter? Forget about it!

A cover letter needs to be short and to the point. It needs to illustrate very quickly why who ever is reading it should pick up the phone and call you. As a recruiter that works with consultants, I seldom indulge in cover letter reading. I don't have time. If your resume is not on target a cover letter won't help.

If you are applying to a permanent job the guy reading your resume is very likely reading dozens of other resumes. He wants to see that you can communicate succinctly and to sell yourself effectively. You can't write more then a couple of sentences. My approach to cover letters when I have to write them is such:

Briefly thank "Whomever" for taking the time to consider you for that particular opportunity( make sure it's the right opportunity and company!). Take one or two points from your resume and illustrate how those experiences make you the best candidate for the job you are applying to. Do this in 2-3 sentences. Catch their attention!

Finish off strong. Do not meander. Being able to write a short and effective summary of why you are the candidate they are looking for is key. If your cover letter is longer then this article, you have a problem.

Good Luck!

By: Gene Leshinsky, Boston Technical Recruiter
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Article courtesy of the Recruiting Blogswap, a content exchange service sponsored by CollegeRecruiter.com, a leading site for college students looking for internships and recent graduates searching entry-level jobs and other career opportunities.