Mechanics of a Good Cover Letter

What are the mechanics of a strong cover letter? How exactly, do you write one? Allow me to share the mechanics of a cover letter. This should provide you with a valuable framework in which you can craft your own tailored cover letter.

Salutation. If you can get a name of a hiring manager or someone to write to that is ideal. Otherwise you will need to use something more generic like Dear hiring manager, or To whom it may concern.

Dear Hiring Manager:

The Opening: Open the cover letter with some direct information related to the position you are seeking and a few key attributes or competencies that will enable the reader to quickly become engaged:

A highly qualified and results-focused operations leader, I am writing to express my desire to join your team as a [Title]. During the course of my professional career, I have revitalized an underperforming unit, established consistent business processes and procedures, and fostered environments predicated on commitment and communication. I would be pleased to leverage these skills, complemented by critical and creative thinking abilities to drive immediate value for [Name of Company].

The Hook: The second paragraph is an opportunity for you to deliver an impact as to what you did that makes you a viable and unique candidate. Connect this paragraph to the resume. Do not copy information verbatim. This is the area where you can exercise some creativity. If you are changing careers and have a good example of something you did in a personal capacity that illustrates something of value, you can incorporate it; just make sure it is relevant to the role. You can start with a short paragraph and then use bullets to draw the reader’s attention to the key areas of achievement:

Presently the Operations Manager of ABC Company, I am credited with defining procedures associated with how the company conducts business on a daily basis. Through the creation and implementation of a comprehensive process program, costs were reduced by 63% and profitability grew by 23%. The following illustrates the value I offer:

• Oversaw the development of process design, technical writing, quality assurance, and workforce management practices to meet short- and long-term goals. Through the implementation of an organization-wide training program, productivity was improved by 45%.
• Collaborated with internal departments to create a customer-centric culture. In partnership with the operations support team, strategies were developed to ensure the entire organization remained committed to uncovering and delivering products and services to meet consumer demand.
• Reviewed client satisfaction survey results and shared feedback with staff, recommending appropriate changes to improve service. In support of the corporate mission statement, my work was instrumental in defining and deploying tactical and strategic business plans, and resulted in a 30% improvement in customer satisfaction scores.

What You Know About Them: In this area demonstrate that you conducted research about the company. Present information regarding your knowledge of their business:

Having conducted research regarding XYZ Corporation’s business practices, I understand that your organization has recently acquired Company ABC, necessitating an operational integration. Equally important is your focus on sustaining ‘green’ initiatives, an area in which I am eager to participate. Given my background in driving efficiency, I am in a position to help you quickly achieve your goals.

The Closing: In the closing paragraph quickly summarize what you offer and close by either suggesting a meeting or indicating that you will call in a certain number of days. If you choose the latter approach, make sure you follow-up within the timeframe you reference.

I bring a tool kit comprised of an inclusive management style, strategic planning, and analytical skills; and I would be pleased to review my credentials with you to personally explore how I can contribute as a member of your senior leadership team. Please feel free to contact me at the number above to arrange a time to speak.

Sincerely,

Full Name

Enclosure: Resume