Cover Letters with Impact Valerie Ballenger, Contributing Writer There it is….that perfect job with your name on it. You become enthused and simply can’t wait to submit your resume by the posted deadline. You block out time from your schedule and breeze through updating your resume. All of a sudden, your mind goes blank as you become confused about where to start in the process of starting your cover letter. You may begin to procrastinate or experience a great deal of uncertainty. Many people experience some level of anxiety writing cover letters simply because they do not feel comfortable talking about themselves. Reportedly, 2 out of 3 job seekers experience feelings of anxiety when asked to write a cover letter. The trick is to realize that the purpose of a cover letter is tri-fold. One, to introduce yourself to the potential employer. Second, to get employers to proceed to read your resume. Third, to be granted an interview for that perfect job. Cover letters should be viewed as a marketing tool or a “mini brochure” highlighting your personal strengths and accomplishments. If your cover letter does not stand out, chances are that the prospective employer will not proceed to read your resume. As the executive director of a nonprofit, I encounter countless cover letters that are predictable, dry, and fail to communicate an individual’s ability. These cover letters fail to give insight to the job seekers personality and career accomplishments. To do that you must become acquainted with the appropriate structure of cover letters as identified below. Structure of a Cover Letter 1) Introduction The purpose of a cover letter is not rewrite you resume. Instead identify the position you are applying for and express your interest in the position. Also, this lists any contact or referral names if it applies. 2) Body This is not a time to be shy and quiet. Give the reader a glimpse of your personality, motivation, and interest by selling your abilities. Identify what it is about yourself that no other competitor can offer. Give examples of how your skills have been demonstrated in the past and how they are transferable to the employer. Finally, understand the organizations needs and state what you bring to the table to assist them. 3) Closing TAKE ACTION: Restate you interest in the position and identify how you plan to follow up with the employer. Cover Letter Tips 1) Limit your Cover Letter to One Page Enforce a one-page limit by saving specific details for your resume otherwise, you may loose your audience by having too much jargon. 2) Be Personal Write as if you are talking to individually, represent yourself and not a “market”. Use your own language so that it reflects your personal style. 3) Be Sincere Be effective by giving something of yourself to readers. Perhaps mention an honest appreciation for an opportunity to describe your idea. 4) Be Positive A positive approach assures confidence and makes your argument hard to resist. Use confident words of action to grab your reader’s attention. 5) Be Creditable Site awards received, credentials, education/training, experience and references. You can also mention who referred you. Your reader most likely has never heard of you and needs evidence of your talents and skills. 6) Send the Cover Letter to a specific person Don’t simply address an employer on a cover letter as “To whom it may concern” or “Human Resource Representative,” take time out to research the key individual in the appropriate department by visiting their website By following these tips, you are guaranteed to stand above the competition. Your cover letter will be identified as a powerful marketing tool selling your talents. To view a cover letter sample, click here. Valerie Ballenger is the Executive Director and Founder of Inspiring DIVAs, a non-profit organization “teaching young girls to love every inch of themselves.”