Do You Need an Effective Cover Letter to Secure a Job Interview?

I have written enough on how job search techniques are changing with the emerging dynamics of recruitment. It is now a known fact that more and more jobs are now available through social media networks as compared to traditional newspaper advertisements.
Not many people know that #jobs can help you job posted on twitter! Those who know this certainly have a clear advantage in the job market. With the emergence of jobsites such as Monster, Workopolis, Rozee, Bayt etc and social media network such as LinkedIn, job hunters are encouraged to register and leave their profiles for recruiters to search from a wide database.
The question however is: If the need for a well crafted cover letter remains or this is an obsolete tool?
In my opinion, the new recruitment process when the process starts on social media or via internet based applications, need for a cover letter is almost eliminated. Applicants need worry about a cover letter only if it is specifically requested by the advertiser.
There are many articles available on various websites, such as Harvard Business Review or EzineArticles on how to write effective cover letter. In my views, is required, it should be prepared using the following structure:
1. Date
2. Name of the person / department
3. Complete address of the company
4. Clear reference to the advertisement.
5. Subject line must contain the job title
6. Body should contain three paragraphs and must focus on:
a. Your qualifications and experience
b. Your interpersonal capabilities
c. Timing of your availability for job (if offered)
Honestly, there is no need to write complex and lengthy cover letters, your key document is your resume, and it needs a lot more attention as compared to a letter! Ideally, if you need to attach a letter, it should only summarize key bits of your resume and it should encourage the reader to flip and read your resume also.
Remember, if you are required to submit one, your cover letter must help you standout of other applicants. Treat it as your marketing letter, brief and crisp convincing enough to secure an interview call.
Few key points in drafting an effective cover letter are:
1. Use of positive words.
2. Never say anything negative about your current job.
3. Show ambitious approach towards your career goals.
4. Relevance of your experience with the job that you are applying for.
Finally, before submitting, there is no harm in asking someone to review the cover letter. An extra pair of eyes is always recommended!

Hammad Siddiqui is a capacity building expert, trainer and change leader
http://hammadsiddiquiblog.com

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