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Four essential steps in writing a cover letter:

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Grab Your Reader's ATTENTION

Do this by using quality typesetting, stationery and envelopes.
Don't use personal stationery
Use the same paper your resume is printed on.
don't have too much information crammed into the space and therefore is hard on the eyes.
The layout needs to be organized,d logical and even.
Avoid misspellings and visibly corrected spellings
The critical difference between typing on a typewriter and word processing on a computer is the computer's ability to store information on a disk so that every letter can be immediately customized for every different job.
Computer printouts should be done on the best printer available.
Don't use boring old pica and elite typefaces that scream "typewriter."
Consider using fonts like Bookman, New York, and Palatino as the norm.
Stay away from the heavy typesetting and bold body copy.
Bold typeface also takes up more space.
Avoid "script" faces similar to handwriting.
Capitalized copy is tough on the eyes.
Don't use "clip art" to brighten the page.
You can vary the impact of key words with italics, underlined phrases, and boldface or capitalized titles for additional emphasis.
Proofing is immensely important. Have others proof your work.
Don't skimp on paper costs.
White is considered the prime choice for color. Cream is also acceptable.
Envelope color must must the cover letter and resume color, paper weight and quality.
All subsequent letters should be on the same paper.
Never use dot matrix-printed pressure-sensitive labels. This has the appearance of junk-mail.
Paper should be standard "8 1/2 X 11" and of good quality.
Use only one side of the page?
If more than one page, have you paginated your cover letter: "1 of 2" at the bottom of the page and so on?
Acceptable to staple multi pages with one staple in the top left-hand corner.

Generate INTEREST

Do this by addressing the letter to someone by name and quickly explaining what you have to offer.
The first sentence grabs attention, the rest of the paragraph gives the reader the old on-two punch.
The file is to say it s straight and don't pussy-foot.
Do some research. Even a little can get your letter off to a fast start.

Examples

I have been following the performance of your fund in Mutual Funds Newsletter. The record over the last three years shows strong portfolio management. With my experience working for one of your competitors. I know I could make significant contributions.
With the scarcity of qualified and motivated (your desired job title) that exists today. I feel sure that it would be valuable for us to talk.
The state of the art in ______ changes so rapidly that it is tough for most professionals to keep up. I am the exception. I am eager to bring my experience to bear for your company.

Now turn that INTEREST into DESIRE

Tie yourself to a specific job category or work area.

I am writing because ... "or "My reason for contracting you...
"... should this be the case, you may be interested to know..."
If you are seeking a ______, you will be interested to know..."
"I would have an opening for someone in this area., you will see that my resume demonstrates a person of unusual dedication, efficiency and drive."
"I would like to talk to you about your personnel needs and how I am able to contribute to your department's goals."
If an advertisement or conversation with a potential employer reveal an aspect of a particular job opening that is not addressed in your resume, it should be included in your cover letter.,

Turn that DESIRE into ACTION

The action you're shooting for is that the reader will dash straight on to your resume, then call you in for an interview.
This can be achieved by action with brevity - leave the reader wanting more.
Make it clear to the reader that you want to talk.
Explain when, where, and how you can be contacted.
Just as you worked to get the opening right, labor over the closing. It is the reader's last impression of you, make it strong, make it tight, and make it obvious that are serious about entering into meaningful conversation.

"It would be a pleasure to give you more information about my qualifications and experience.."
"I look forward to discussing our mutual interests further..."
"While I prefer not to use my employer's time taking personal calls at work, with discretion I can't be reached at _______. .."
"My credentials and achievements are a matter of record that I hope you will examine in depth when we meeting."
"Thank you for your time and consideration; I hope to hear from you shortly.:"

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