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From
my survey while communicating with job seekers on BBM, one of the
most widely asked questions is : “What is a Cover Letter”.
I will put you through on this and also show you a sample
template which you can always use in applying for jobs.
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According to Google, A Cover Letter is defined as “A letter
sent with, and explaining the contents of, another document or a
parcel of goods.”
A cover letter typically accompanies each CV/resume you send
out to provide additional information on why or how you are
qualified for the job you are applying for.
Effective cover letters explain the reasons for your interest
in the specific job in an organization and identify your most
relevant skills or experiences.
Your cover letter could make the difference between obtaining a
job interview and having your resume ignored, so it makes good
sense to devote the necessary time and effort to writing
effective cover letters.
A cover letter should complement, not duplicate, your resume. A
cover letter is critical in creating a very good first
impression.
Cover letters are generally one page at most in length, divided
into a header, introduction, body, and closing
Below is a template/blueprint I have suggested for you in
writing your cover letters:
APPLICANT ADDRESS
RECRUITER ADDRESS
SALUTATION
Dear [insert name of recruiting manager],
BODY
First paragraph: Mention the job you’re applying for
and where you found the job listing.
Middle paragraphs: Discuss your qualifications. These
paragraphs should be specifically tailored to requirements
posted in the job listing. You might also consider including
why this specific company interested you in the first place.
Limit this section to two to three paragraphs.
Final paragraph: If you are going to follow up in one
to two weeks, mention a specific date. If you would prefer to
leave the ball in their court, say that you look forward to
discussing your qualifications further. Also provide your email
address and phone number. Don’t forget to thank them for their
time.
CLOSE
Best Regards,
[insert your name]
Also, below is a Sample real world Cover Letter that follows
the template above:
Emeka Taiwo Ahmed
20 Second Ave.
Surulere, Lagos
April 7, 2013
The Human Resource Manager
XYZ Company
123 Central District.
Abuja, Nigeria
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am interested in the Coordinator position advertised on
ABC Media. Given my related experience and excellent
capabilities I would appreciate your consideration for this job
opening. My skills are an ideal match for this position.
As a professional administrative assistant with excellent
research skills, I am eager to contribute my abilities and
experience to XYZ Company. Given my extensive training and
background, I believe I can help XYZ Company meet its goal of
providing only the most accurate and timely information to its
clients.
Please find enclosed my resume and a list of my references.
Feel free to call me at 1234567890, to arrange a time to meet.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Emeka Taiwo Ahmed.
I hope this helps. Feel free to ask me any career related
questions, whether generic or specific to job search in
Nigeria. If I can, I will always answer and post it on this
blog for other people to learn from it.
If you are on my BBM list, you can easily ping me your
questions. If you are not, I’m sorry I cant accept any more BBM
requests(My contact list is full to it’s limit). However, you
can contact me via email at info[at]jobzilla[dot]ng