You may think that writing a cover letter is a difficult task.  To tell you the truth, it can be if it’s not done correctly.  You must not rush into it and do each part of the letter at step at a time.  You should have a cover letter every time you send out a resume.  It could be the breaking point as to whether or not a prospective employer will grant you an interview. 

Having a cover letter works to compliment your resume.  It should not say the same things as what is on it.  You basically have one chance to get it right, or the prospective employer may toss your letter and resume out the window. 

Learning how to write a cover letter deals with how you should present it.  Here are some tips to use in writing them effectively:

The body of your letter should consist of no more than four paragraphs.  Actually, three would be better. 

With the first paragraph, the employer needs to know the purpose of you writing to them.  Use no more than three sentences to convey this.  Your opening should be made to get the prospective employer take notice. 

In the next paragraph, provide your job qualifications and check them against the position that you’ are applying for.  Let the prospective employer know reasons why you would be a good fit for the company.  Cite them with examples that you can use that could sway their decision.  For example, if you were applying for a clerical job, you need to put something like, "Created backup files for paperwork by scanning them and performing routine computer backups."

You should have no more than three points, along with detailed examples.  You should know a little bit about the company that you are sending your cover letter and resume to.  This will impress the prospective employer. 

As you are learning how to write a cover letter, you should have a statement that will compel the prospective employer to put you in the running for an interview.  This should be the last paragraph and make it no more than four sentences.  Make sure that the letter refers to your resume and advise them when you are available to interview.  

You can also go as far as to let them know that you will get in touch with them to discuss the employment opportunity.  Make sure that you contact information is there and that it is current.  One thing that prospective employers don’t like is out of date information.  You would just be put in the discard pile.  Thank them for their consideration.

The conclusion should read "Yours sincerely", or "Yours faithfully".  You will also need space to type and write your signature.

When you are learning how to write a cover letter, the last thing you should do is to proofread your letter.  Make sure that you use spell check for misspellings and grammatical errors.  It’s also a good idea to have some eyes other than yours look at what you’ve written.  They can catch something that you may have missed.  In other words, your cover letter must be error-free.  If not, you will have squandered your chance to get your foot in the door.  So, to be safe than sorry, take your time and do it right the first time.  Before you know it, you will be on your way to being employed.