What to include in a cover letter is one of the most important parts of your resume. The sole purpose of a cover letter is to strike enough interest to draw an interview, not to tell a meaningless story. The goal of your cover letter is to display your qualifications and attract interest from employers. Your cover letter will determine whether or not the employer even looks at your resume beneath it. This is the first step in making a good impression.

There are two types of cover letters, specific and general. The specific cover letter is detailed for an individual person, an individual position, and an individual company. The specific cover letter will also send a very strong message to the employer that you took the time to individualize your cover letter.

A general cover letter is often addressed in general. The purpose of a general cover letter is to leave options open for general openings, although it states your qualifications and your skills. A general cover letter at times can be an advantage, because it shows flexibility in general job openings. The general cover letter may hurt you if you are applying for a specific position and you are not specifically addressing the individual that you are wishing to get an interview with.

A good example of a specific cover letter is as follows:

Peter A. White
2118 Any Street
City, ST 70909
Telephone: 555-555-5555
Cell phone: 555-555-5555

October 1, 2006

Mr. Parker
Director of Human Resources
ABC Transportation
134 Street Name
Albuquerque, N.M. 78436

Dear Mr. Parker:

I am responding to your advertisement in the Globe news regarding the operator position in close is my resume showing my experience, education, and background.

I have 12 years, driving over the road, reaching as many as 32 different states. I have received several above and beyond awards due to my high performance in customer service. I truly believe customer service is the key to success in any business. I have also never been in any form of incident or accident in my 12-year career. I have received safety awards every year for safe driving. I truly believe I would be an asset to your company.

I look forward to discussing my qualifications with you personally.

Sincerely, Peter White

There are several important tips that can be very useful when it comes to writing an effective cover letter:

1. Do your best to be as personable as possible.

2. Make the employer feel comfortable with you as quick as possible.

3. Distribute personality throughout the letter.

4. Give employer impressions of who you are, what you are about, and what type of character you have within you.

5. Ensure that the employer understands what your intentions are with your cover letter.

6. Make sure the employer is aware of what you're asking him or her to do.

7. Do not use long-winded paragraphs, instead use short and to the point paragraphs that are swift and simple for the employer to read.

A strong conclusion is where a lot of people fail to realize they can make or break their cover letter. Confidently ask for a one on one interview and show you’re strong willed and interested in this job. Don't be afraid to make the remark, “I will be dropping by your office some time next week or I will be calling you next week to discuss my credentials.” This is a positive way to get the employers attention, therefore improving your chances of getting the open position. Whatever you do, do not be passive, as this is a sign of weakness in many employers’ opinion.