While it is important that your resume be tailored to specific job openings, it is even more important to target your cover letter. In fact, its major com- ponent should be its concentration on the particular job opening for which you are applying. Because it is so specific, you will need to write a new cover letter every time you send out your resume. It should never read like a form letter, nor should it just repeat the information in your resume. It tells the prospective employer why you are the one for the job.
In the first paragraph, indicate why you are writing the letter at this time.
You may write something like:
“I am applying for the position of hotel manager advertised in the April 14, 2002 edition of the Sunday Post.”
“I am writing in response to your ad in the Sunday, April 14, 2002 edi- tion of the Los Angeles Times.”
“I am interested in obtaining an entry-level position with your company.”
“We met last July at the AH&LA Convention. I will be graduating with my degree in hospitality management in May, and recall that you mentioned you might have an opening for me at that time.”
The first paragraph also usually indicates that your resume is enclosed for consideration, although this may also be in the closing paragraph. If you learned about the position from a friend or acquaintance, be sure to men- tion this mutual contact by name.
In the body of the letter, you want to explain why your training and expe- rience make you the right person for the job. Highlight and summarize the information in your resume, and take advantage of the opportunity to include more about yourself and your skills. For example, life experience that can’t be easily incorporated into a resume can smoothly find its way into your cover letter. For example, instead of writing, “Before entering college, I worked at The Motel for two years, and before that at The Hotel for three years,” try something like, “I have five years of lodging experience in which I interacted with the public on a daily basis.” The body of the letter is your opportunity to explain why the employer should care about your experience and training.
You can also include information about how soon you are available for employment or why (if it is the case) you are applying for a job out of town.
You may also mention some of the things that you are looking for in a job—
if they are either nonnegotiable or flattering to the employer. Make a direct reference to the specific position and organization. Here are some examples:
“I will graduate on May 16 and will be available for employment imme- diately. A position with your company appeals to me because your restaurants are known for their wine cellars, and this is an area in which I have experience and am very interested in learning more about.”
“Although my internship was with Marriott International, I have come to realize that while that particular work was intensely interesting, I would prefer employment with a smaller company. Rather than spe- cialize in one small area, a position at a private resort will afford me the opportunity to call on my comprehensive management experience. I believe your hotel is the place for me and I am certain I would be an asset to you.”
“As you look at my resume, you will notice that although I am just now completing my education, I offer a background in guest relations and problem solving. Since your company has recently undergone a major expansion, I believe you would find me a valuable addition to your staff.”
Finally, the last paragraph (some people prefer it to be two short para- graphs) should thank the person, make a reference to future contact, and offer to provide further information. Examples of effective closing para- graphs include:
“Thank you for your consideration. Please contact me at the address or phone number above if you need any further information.”
“I look forward to meeting with you to discuss this job opening.”
“Thank you and I look forward to speaking with you in the near future.”
“I would welcome the opportunity to discuss the match between my skills and your needs in more detail. You can contact me at the address or phone number above, except for the week of the 27th, when I will be out of town. Thank you for your time.”
The following is an example of a cover letter utilizing the four compo- nents of composition, clarity, content, and concentration.
Dear Mr. Hart:
I am very interested in applying for the restaurant manager position listed in the Sacramento Registeron May 4, 2001.
As you can see from my enclosed resume, I worked for a large chain restaurant in Reno, Nevada for two years prior to moving to Sacramento. I enjoyed the work very much. I am an organized, detail-oriented person who gets along well with people. I was nominated for Employee of the Year twice in my previous position. I feel that these attributes, along with my work experience, qualify me for the position described in your advertisement.
I would greatly appreciate the opportunity for a personal interview. You can reach me at 555-3944.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Cathy Weston Enclosure.