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- The first rule of cover letter etiquette is to send a
cover letter -- ALWAYS. It doesn't matter if the application
screener didn't ask for it or you're too busy to write one.
It's proper business etiquette to accompany a resume with
a cover letter, and it gives you the opportunity to help
sell yourself for the position.
3.
- Keep
It Professional But Friendly: While a resume is generally
a formal document, cover letters give you a chance to reveal
your personality. Not only do you want to show that you're
a good fit for the position, but you also want the reader
to like you.
5.
- Proofread:
Cover letters should be free of errors, so thoroughly proofread
them before sending. If proofreading is not your strong
suit, get help from someone with meticulous proofreading
skills. And one last tip: whatever you do, please spell
the application screener's name correctly!
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- Be Concise: Busy application screeners don't have time
to wade through letters that could pass for dissertations.
Get to the point as expeditiously as possible, and break
any paragraphs seven lines or longer into short, easily
digestible ones.
4.
- Get Personal: Whenever possible, address your letter to
a specific person. If a Research Program posting doesn't
include a person's name, do some research to find out who
the correct person is. Try calling the University or Company
and ask for the application screener's name. Keep the salutation
professional by using "Dear Mr. Jones," not "Dear Jim."
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