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KMG
Consultants is a sales and business consulting firm based out of
Southfield, MI.
If the resume is an outline of a professional career, a
cover letter should tell the story. To make it stand out, it should flow so
well that it would be hard to put down. Creating an awesome cover letter
doesn’t have to be a huge undertaking. By understanding all the parts of a
successful cover letter, you will be one step closer to nailing the job you’ve
always wanted.
General Formatting
Cover letters follow the format of a standard professional
letter. One page is the ideal size, but if you must go over make sure it’s not
too long. The more simple it is, the easier it will be to read. Your contact
information is placed first, which includes your name, address, phone number,
and email. Before the letter starts, include the company name as well as their
address, phone number and email.
The Letter:
The Greeting
The first sentence is a salutation for whoever will be reading
it. Knowing the actual name of who will be reading the letter will get you farther
than just calling them hiring manager or “to whom it may concern.” Start off
the letter strong by showing how prepared you are and professional you take
this letter to be. Hiring managers will respect that and you will already be in
their good graces.
The Opener (First Paragraph)
Try and knock it out of the park in the first paragraph. It’s
should present the reader with focused information regarding the position you intend
to interview for. This paragraph should include key facts about what makes you
a great candidate, and your preparation for sending in this application. Also
mention that more thorough information about yourself can be found on your
resume that you should also be providing.
The Hook (Second Paragraph)
The second paragraph is where you discuss all your
qualifications as well as your professional achievements. It should spew off a
few details from your resume that help define your career and your potential.
Bullets or lists can be eye-catchers for the reader too. This is where you
really sell yourself as a great worker and how you have found success.
The Research (Third Paragraph)
Talk about reasons why you applied to this company and what
drew your eye to it. This will show the reader that you did your research and
understand the overall goals and expectations of the business.
The Finale (The Fourth Paragraph)
This is the deal closer. End it with a summary of what you
bring to the table, and stress the point that you will be ready to work at a
moment’s notice. The last part should be your availability and that you can be
reached at any time to set up an interview.
The Goodbye (Closing)
Keep this simple and stay away from anything fancy. There’s
no need to make it more complicated than a simple thank you. There are
absolutely no post-scripts either!
Have you gotten the perfect cover letter down? Apply today
at KMG
Consultants on CareerBuilder!
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