Cover Letter Etiquette and Guide

Cover Letter

There are no exceptions to the rule. If you are sending out a resume, you have to include a short, but detailed cover letter. It needs to be treated with the same amount of thoughtfulness, as your resume. If you don’t follow this rule, you will be making a critical mistake!
There are three major types of cover letters. The application letter is a response to an advertized job posting. A prospecting letter inquires about possible positions and a networking notice will request information, and possibly, assistance in a job search.
It should be obvious that an effective cover letter will state the reasons why a job seeker is submitting a resume, the qualifications that are being offered, and an indication as to where he or she learned of the position. Also mentioned in this write-up is the job title, and an identification or reference number, if applicable. 
When composing a cover letter, be enthusiastic, but brief. Busy hiring managers, or recruiters do not have time to wade through stacks of long letters. If possible, break any paragraphs seven lines or longer into short, easily readable, ones. If you have to split up your paragraphs, try not to lose your train of thought and continue your convincing arguments.
Job seekers often spend countless hours developing their resumes, but ignore the importance of a cover letter. Cover letters should be written in the same professional manner as resumes, even if you will be revealing more of your personality. It is appropriate to use humor in moderation, in combination with a friendly and professional tone.
Placing a phone call to the employer’s secretary, or doing a bit of research can make a world of difference. Figure out who the hiring manager is, so you can address your cover letter directly to him or her.
Never start a sentence with “I” or “My.” The focus should be on the employer and his company, not on you. Target the employer’s needs, and demonstrate in your compelling letter, that you are the perfect candidate for the job. Convince him or her, that you have a wonderful personality and will definitely be a great asset to the company.
As a job seeker you may be spending countless hours developing your resume. Do the same for your cover letter. Be creative and original and do not hesitate to include a few previous career highlights, or special job accomplishments.
Brief Summary:
The cover letter should:
Be professional, including in the salutation, regardless if you know the hiring manager’s name, or not.
Be to the point and link your experiences to the advertised job.
Be concise and not longer than three to four paragraphs.
Be error-free. Be meticulous and proofread.
Be positive, optimistic and creative. You want the hiring manager interested in reading your resume.

The cover letter should NOT:
Be a summary or repeat of your resume.
Be an autobiography
Be a standardized letter you send with all job application. Be specific for each individual application.

If you have public relations jobs that need to be filled there’s no better way to reach a massive amount of people than by posting online job opening ads. In this modern age there is at least one computer in nearly every household. And more and more, people are relying on the Internet as a way to shop, bank, and stay current with information. The reality is that the Internet offers an inexpensive way to reach thousands and thousands of people. This means you are more likely to attract the ideal person someone that has just the right experience and personality to make your job easier.

There are some things you can do to increase the likelihood of getting the right person. When you post public relations jobs be sure to include specific information related to required education, experience needed, compensation and responsibilities.

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