Writing effective cover letters is not a skill that comes easily to everyone. Many job seekers would greatly benefit from writing professional, concise cover letters. Cover letters are the first impression that a potential employer will have of you and thus it pays to have the best letter possible for each job you are applying for. Not all job applications call for a one, yet it still may be useful to include a letter for several reasons. Cover letters:

1. Portray professionalism - Having a prepared letter indicates that you are serious about the job and want to open a dialogue with the potential employer. It indicates preparedness and that you can conduct yourself as a professional.

2. Give an indication of your communication skills - A well written cover letter will show the potential employer that you are articulate and able to communicate effectively. In today's age of multimedia communication, being able to portray your ideas in an effective manner through written word is a very useful skill to have.

3. Indicate desire - Often simply desiring a particular job enough to work hard for it is a better indication to employers of your work ethic than anything else you could provide. And as a well developed cover letter requires research and hard work on the applicant's part, many employers see the cover letter as a vital tool in taking an applicant's "temperature" with regards to their desire for the position.

So it seems fairly obvious that this document is an effective tool in developing a positive relationship with a potential employer and indicating your desire or interest in obtaining a position. It also provides a means to have an open dialogue with the employer prior to even meeting face to face. However, now you may be wondering what the main components of an effective cover letter are. A professional letter will consist of the following:

1. Personalized salutation - Perform some background research on the company you are applying to and determine who will be reading your letter. You can access most of this information on the internet via their company website or by emailing a few current employees within the organization. Once you determine who will be obtaining it, address the letter directly to them rather than using "To Whom It May Concern:" or something similar.

2. Relevant, specific accomplishments - Include your accomplishments from past jobs, any academic achievements that may be of interest to the employer can also be included however do not dwell too much on academics as hands on experience will "travel farther" with a potential employer in most instances.

3. Selling language - Sell yourself and your skills to the employer. Explain why you are the best of the best and they should pick you for the job. This is one of the few times in a business setting that it is appropriate to boast about yourself, so make the most of it.

4. Contact information - Provide the employer with the most current contact information that you have. Include only emails that you check regularly and phone numbers where you can easily be reached.

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