Nine Steps to Writing a Generic Multipurpose Cover Letter

Jill Leviticus reports:

"Although every cover letter should include information directly related to the job to which you are applying, you don’t need to write a new cover letter every time you apply for a job. Preparing a basic cover letter that you can easily modify saves you time and ensures that you cover basic facts about your background...Include an address block at the top of the letter for the insertion of the name and address of a prospective employer if you expect to send letters through the mail...Follow standard letter format when writing your letter. Begin the letter with 'Dear Mr. Smith.' Be sure to change the salutation to the correct name for a particular position before sending it...State that you are applying for 'X' position which you heard about through 'Y.' Replace 'X' and 'Y' with the specific position title and details regarding the way you learned about the opening when you are ready to send the letter...Mention your current position and discuss how many years’ experience you have in your industry. Explain that your attached resume describes your past work history...Discuss why you are seeking a new job. You might want to write [that] you are eager to take on new challenges or may want to explain that you have recently relocated from another area...Write a sentence describing any degrees you hold. If you have any special qualifications or certifications, list those in another sentence...Describe your duties or key qualifications and discuss how this experience will allow you to succeed in a new position. If you know several software packages, you may want to explain that your experience qualifies you to handle multiple types of projects with ease. Include several examples in the generic cover letter and add or remove them from each letter as needed. Duke Law suggests writing something about yourself that separates you from other candidates in a positive way...through a personal experience...Mention your eagerness to learn more about the position in person. List your preferred method of contact...Thank the employer for reviewing your qualifications. Mention that you look forward to hearing from him...Format your letter using basic rules for formatting business correspondence. Use one-inch margins and divide your letter into several paragraphs. Virginia Tech Division of Student Affairs suggests using a clear, commonplace font such as Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman for easier readability...Avoid discussing personal information unless it specifically relates to your career...It won’t help you get the job and may distract the employer from reading about your accomplishments."