Explain Yourself

• Employers often ask interviewees why they want to work for the company. Your cover letter should address this question in the first paragraph. Introduce yourself and explain why you are applying for the position. Tell how you learned of the job opportunity. If your resume is to express interest in working for a company, explain what attracted you to the company.
  
  

Qualifications

• Resume cover letters should relay your qualifications in a conversational format. Unlike your resume, your cover letter provides you with a platform to explain situations and give context to your past successes. Tell your professional story using descriptive language and bridging the chronological gaps between work experiences. For example, if your resume leaves off two years because you were self-employed, include this explanation in your cover letter.
  
  

Be Concise

• Resume cover letters should be less than a page long. In cases where you have extensive qualifications or job history, two pages will be OK. Avoid creating a resume longer than two pages as you may lose the reader. Rarely will more than two pages of information be needed to address a specific job opening. Be concise. Focus on providing examples of your qualifications only as they relate to the position open. If your strengths are a good match for the organization, you will have the opportunity to address any additional information in an interview.
  
  

Show Personality

• One limitation of a resume is that it rarely shows an applicant's full personality. Communication styles used in your cover letter help employers get a glimpse of who you are. Use your resume cover letter as an opportunity to relay enthusiasm about the position. Practice reading your cover letter aloud in the mirror. Consider whether your language exudes confidence or crosses the line into arrogance. Revise your document until you have a strong, energetic cover letter.