Four Steps to a Powerful Cover Letter ________________________________________ A cover letter is a formal introduction between you, the job seeker, and a potential employer. A cover letter allows you the opportunity to explain what position you are applying for, why you are the best candidate for that position and provide follow up contact information. A cover letter is part of the business strategy on the path towards obtaining employment. Every job seeker should have and use a cover letter. It will distinguish you from all other's. Now, I understand and would be the first person to state and agree that there is no one right way to do a cover letter. If you ask ten cover letter "expert's" they will offer ten different opinions on how and what a cover letter should look and read like, and of course, they would all be right. My advice is strictly recommendations. You can choose to use any, all or none of it. I would say to you if your cover letter is working for you, do not change a word, if however it is not providing the results you desire, be open to change. Fair enough? Let's discuss The Four Steps to A Powerful Cover Letter. 1. THE INTRODUCTION. This is the area where you introduce yourself, state what position you are interested in and where/when you saw it. 2. THE BODY. This is the area where you provide information on why you are the best candidate for the position. Describe your HARD SKILLS, those qualities that you acquired thru formal education, certification, training or hands-on experience. Hard skills are what you know how to do. You can include your SOFT SKILLS. These are the qualities that describe who you are as a person. Soft skills make up your character. 3. THE CLOSE. This is the area that you provide contact information to the potential employer and asking to meet with them at their earliest convenience. 4. THANK them for their time and consideration. A cover letter allows you the opportunity to: 1. Be more professional than your competition. 2. Elaborate on points not covered in your resume. 3. Offer the employer more insight to who you are. 4. Show you are not afraid to go that extra mile. REMEMBER: YOU CAN'T CHANGE DESTINY OVER NIGHT BUT YOU CAN CHANGE DIRECTION OVER NIGHT...THOUGHTS, COMMENTS, QUESTIONS...CONTACT MICHAEL CORITSIDIS, LONG ISLAND'S JOB READY STRATEGIST at: doit2001@hotmail.com __________________