The economy is affecting everyone. Big business, small business makes no difference. With more and more layoffs, more and more people are looking for a job or a new one to replace the shaky one they already have. This means the competition is fierce and it’s up to you to do all you can to become more apparent to the ones reviewing hundreds of applications daily. Recruiting departments will tell you most of the applications end up in the trash. Only those that have amazing cover letters actually get through to the next stage, the first interview.

That first interview is where you want to be. That is where you can actually show them what a good candidate you are for the position. Unfortunately, most people never get to this stage because they didn’t realize that it wasn’t that craftily written resume that you paid hundreds of dollars for, it was the cover letter that either broke the deal or got you in. It is that smart person that realizes that that cover letter is their only chance to really make an impression to get their foot in the door for that first interview.

Most people will write a few sentences and throw it onto a letter and call it a cover letter. This is the worst thing you could ever do. This letter is meant to tell them who you really are, and you are truly interested in the job you are applying for. Research a little about the company, re-read the job description. Include in the first paragraph where you found the job, something about the company, and the open position shows you have taken time to go just a little bit further.

One might think a well-written resume is all that is needed. The only thing is, this is really only a listing of what qualifications and experiences you have had, no matter how well written and how much you paid for it. It is not the resume that sells you to the company. The cover letter is what brings you to the top of the pile to be reviewed first. The unexpectedly exciting words, that 99% of job seekers don’t provide, will get your foot in the door to the dream job you’ve been waiting for, every time.

The cover letter

is meant to show them you know what you are talking about. It tells them who you really are, and what it is about you, that makes you the best person for this job. It doesn’t just restate what you have done in your past, it tells them about your character, and how you will fit into their company. It’s a sales letter for you. Worded professionally, convincing the reader that you are the one to be chosen and they need to call to set up that interview before it’s too late.