What to do and what to avoid while applying for a job?

Writing the cover letter with your resume, while applying for a job is an art in itself. Be sure never to send your resume unaccompanied by a cover letter, this letter should always be addressed to a particular person. You need to be careful when answering a blind ad, don’t sound sexist by addressing your reply to ‘gentlemen’.

The first paragraph should not be some boring introduction but something that grabs the attention of the employer instantly. Clichés like Find my resume enclosed etc need not be put in, since it is an application for a job so an employer knows that your resume is enclosed. Also you should send original letters to all your employers.

Follow up is imperative on your part. Don’t expect action on the employer’s end. Coerce him into action. Ask for an interview to be granted. The letter that you send to the employer should be immaculate, sparkling clean, with no spelling mistakes or out of place grammar.

You also need to write to the point much like a journalist, so before sending your letter, review it. Your cover letter should be unique and if you have problems getting started then take help from the various samples that are available online for free. You should talk about the requirements of the job in the cover letter.

You need to keep your letter brief it should never exceed one page and preferably less than one full page too. You need to tell the employer why he should choose you over someone, how you will fit the bill. You should give examples in your cover letter that amplify all your claims. Rehashing your resume is not required; you can make use of your cover letter to bring to light the high points of your resume.

You should avoid being negative in any sense as that is a great put off. Be sure to provide contact details in the letter. Make use of action verbs as far as possible and sign the letter personally preferably in blue ink.