How to Write an Attention-Grabbing Cover Letter

One of the most important tools used in a job search is the resume – to include the accompanying cover letter. Louise Kursmark and Wendy Enelow have revamped their book, Cover Letter Magic, for the fourth time, in an effort to help recent college graduates looking for entry level jobs to put their better feet forward “when communicating with employers and recruiters.” But Kursmark’s and Enelow’s advice isn’t solely for the young or recently graduated job seeker.
Kursmark and Enelow recommend that all job seekers write cover letters that do more than re-iterate what appears on their resumes. Instead, they should write cover letters that clearly demonstrate what they can do for employers.
To help inexperienced job seekers, Kursmark and Enelow offer the advice:

1. Highlight “professional” skills that you have developed through both professional and nonprofessional experiences. For example, if you have worked on important team projects while at school, communicate that you know how to get results in a team environment.
2. If technology skills are important in your chosen field, be sure to emphasize your skills in this area.
3. Mine your academic experiences for evidence of leadership skills. These are important in a work environment and are evidence of your potential.
4. Highlight your academic achievements. They indicate your intelligence and competitiveness.
5. Relate your skills, experience and interests to the employer’s needs. Show that you understand business priorities and are ready to make a contribution; don’t simply state, “I’ve graduated! Now I need a job!”

Writing a winning cover letter is far from easy, so Louise Kursmark and Wendy Enelow have updated Cover Letter Magic to help job seekers of every age and career level to write cover letters that are sure to get them noticed by employers and recruiters.

Originally posted by Candice A