| As with any writing process, compiling an effective | | | | know you are knowledgeable about their recent |
| cover letter is just that: a process. And with any | | | | acquisition of another company, for example, or that |
| process, there are some steps that you need to | | | | you are aware of their plans to expand their office |
| take to fully understand the purpose and mission of | | | | locations. Whatever information you find, be sure to |
| what you are writing. The same is true with CV | | | | incorporate it into your letter somehow so that the |
| letters-before you put your fingers to the keyboard | | | | hiring manager will know you're serious about the job. |
| and start typing away on yours, you want to cover | | | | Find out who will be reading the CV letter and |
| a few things before you even date the document. | | | | resume. Be sure to address it to that person |
| First, make sure your resume is up to date and | | | | specifically, and not "to whom it may concern." |
| polished. Nothing says lazy like an old resume with | | | | Really know the job you are applying for. Determine |
| stale information. Make sure the resume that | | | | what skills and qualifications you have and make sure |
| accompanies your cover letter can stand on its own | | | | that they stand front and center on your cover |
| and showcase your abilities clearly and quickly-most | | | | letter. The more qualified you are for the job, the |
| hiring managers just skim over your CV letter and | | | | better! Always be sure to name-drop when |
| resume in record time-especially when they are faced | | | | appropriate. In today's tough job market, it is not |
| with hundreds of job applicants. | | | | always what you know but WHO you know that can |
| Research the company. Know about the organization | | | | make the difference. |
| that you are applying with, so that you can let them | | | | |