Judging a Book By It's Cover

by Mike Murray - Nov 6, 2009

What would your autobiography's dust cover say about you? Think about this the next time you write a cover letter, as this is the "dust cover" of your resume, and will be the reader's very first introduction of who you are.


Even though it is not commonly known, recruiter's often read your cover letter last, in much the same way you might when picking up a book after browsing a few pages of content. It's yet another opportunity to help keep their attention focused on you, so that you're resume is placed on the "hold" pile instead of being discarded. It is from this angle that cover letters are very important, and the purpose of this article.

In addition to adding another perspective to your resume, your cover letter also demonstrates your ability to communicate. Because of this, be sure to check spelling and verify the company name and content. You don't want this to destroy your chances of further consideration.

Your cover letter should not exceed four paragraphs, and should include an introduction, relevant passion, qualifications and skills, and content.

All of us have friends who constantly tell us how great they are, but often fall short on substance, relegating them to those we'd rather avoid. Don't fall into this category with the headhunter. Their time is limited and they won't waste their time.

Try to give your reader some substance to focus on. Pick three to four key responsibilities, where you clearly describe how you successfully managed projects and tasks of similar size and complexity during the course of your career.

Top 10 Do's and Don'ts

1. Keep it to one page.
2. Don't be so brief that the employer must work to find information.
3. Personalize each letter.
4. Don't mis-spell the name of the contact or organization.
5. Craft each cover letter to the specific job, mentioning the position and organization within the first sentence.
6. Don't load the letter with too much jargon.
7. Match your skills to the job responsibilities.
8. Don't add charts or tables.
9. Set yourself apart as unique among the applicant pool.
10. Don't use paper so different that it detracts attention from the content.

Source: Laura Gassner Otting, President, Non-profit Professionals Advisory Group