The elephant wants to be heard, however, recruiting methods have changed and he doesn't always get his chance.
This topic tends to spark great debate among recruiters. Here's my stance:
While writing a cover letter s*cks, it is useful...for purposes other than what they were intended.
For new grads and current students a cover letter is useful since their resumes tend to all look alike and can't yet demonstrate enough experience or individuality. For experienced hires, there's usually enough information on their résumés to determine if they're a fit. If not, I doubt many recruiters will take the time to read all cover letters submitted by experienced candidates.
Instead, what's helpful to any candidate (especially experienced ones) in writing a cover letter is that it helps you set up your "elevator speech," "pitch," or "spiel," as to why you're the right fit for the job. It's surprising how a simple question such as "Why do you think you're right for the job?" renders candidates either dumbfounded or spewing out generic answers such as, "I'm a hard worker," or, "I really like the company." Drafting your cover letter can help you tell them more specifically what you've done to demonstrate why you're the right fit.
So, just write the darn thing - don't expect everyone to read it, just expect that it will help you remember to recite your strengths and experience when you get nervous during an interview. Here's an outline on how to keep it short and sweet:
Greeting:How about, "Dear Recruiter," or, "Dear Human Resources Department." As a woman, it gets pretty tiring reading "Dear Sir" all the time - just keep it gender-neutral. Be careful with that, though, as "To Whom it May Concern" can also sound like you're just shooting out this information at random.
First Paragraph:
Short and sweet; two to three sentences stating your name, profession, mention the specific position and how you came across the job posting, and whom you may know at the company that referred you (if you know someone, name drop, but make sure your contact knows you're doing so!).
Second Paragraph:
You can flex the amount of sentences here (a bit). I try to keep it to about five. Summarize your working background (as it relates to the position) and accomplishments (be sure to phrase them so that they meet the position requirements - if the accomplishments have nothing to do with the job to which you're applying, it won't show how you're a good fit).
Third Paragraph:
Wrap it up! Just two to three sentences stating how your experience in the role/field to which you're applying would help the company accomplish their goals, thanking them for their time, letting them know they can contact you with any questions and that you look forward to their reply.
Closing:
This can be a simple, "Sincerely," or "Kind regards," or even a "Thank you."
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The Bottom Line & Further Suggestions:
That poor elephant may still get ignored for his intended purpose, however, he still has some wisdom to share. In other words, the act of drafting a cover letter will better prepare you to pitch your skills.
As for a further suggestion, a good way to resuscitate that old elephant is by modernizing the format. Ever try a Video Cover Letter? More on that soon!
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