Best Cover Letters 2013

What's the best type of cover letter for job seekers to use? How can you get noticed in a very competitive job market?

What's most important doesn't change much year over year and cover letters haven't gone out of style. Many employers require job applicants to submit a cover letter with their resume,  but writing a generic "I am interested in a job" letter won't cut it.

It's still, and always, important to take the time to write a personalized cover letter which explains why you are a strong candidate for the job.

What to Include in a Cover Letter

This takes some time, but every cover letter you write should be customized for the position you are applying for. Specifically relate your qualifications for the job to those listed in the job posting.

Also, include keywords relevant to the position you're applying for because most large companies use computerized applicant tracking systems to review job applications and if you include the right keywords, your cover letter and resume will have a better chance of being selected.

Your cover letter doesn't have to be long. A one page letter with two or three paragraphs is appropriate for most cover letters.  A survey from Saddleback College reports that almost 44% of employers think a 1/2 page cover letter is fine, only 12% expect a full page letter.

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