Cover Letters.

When you submit a resume, it should be preceded by a cover letter. Even resumes sent via email ought to have a brief cover letter in the body of the email. The letter is the first thing recruiters look at. A poor letter could result in a resume getting overlooked so it is important that you take the time to create one carefully.

• A cover letter should be personal. Don't send form letters; they're boring. A generalized, personal letter shows that you respect the recruiters and their organization because you took the time to create something just for them.
• Keep the tone confident and positive. There should be nothing negative in a cover letter, nor a resume for that fact. Write clearly.
• Keep sentences brief and to the point. At least two sentences in a paragraph but no more than five should be necessary.
• State why you are submitting your resume.
• Highlight one of your greatest successes.
• Mention facts you've learned about the organization that are relevant to the position to which you are applying.

Remember that a cover letter is a sales pitch. You are trying to gain the attention of an employer and convince them to 'purchase' your services. You want to intrigue an employer to want to learn more about you with just a sampling of your accomplishments and abilities.