An effective cover letter adapted to your circumstances gives you the best weapon in a job search campaign. Top employers choose their workers more for their cover letters than for their resumes. A carefully written cover letter, which grabs the attention and the interview perfectly, will go a long way as it will accompany your resume and resumes can be boring and easily thrown away.

A good practice for writing a cover letter is to take time to think about what you need to write. The best cover letters are written at this planning stage. First ask yourself what the potential employer would need from you and what he or she is willing to offer you.

List, on paper, your skills and assets for the specific job you are applying for. You may not include them all in your letter, but having them written in front of you will help you choose your words carefully.

A cover letter that could apply to most situations might consist of:

* An introductory paragraph introducing yourself and stating the position you are seeking, also who you heard from or where you read about the specific opening or who referred you if you were referred for the job.

* A short paragraph about your background, educational credentials, and work experience (don’t skip this paragraph thinking you’re already attaching your resume. Remember you’re highlighting yourself).

*Another paragraph noting your accomplishments that could be related to the job you are seeking and your personal attributes that you believe are important for the job

* Your employer action request on your application (Here, you can add an application for a future job with the company, if this particular job is already filled.)

* Closing paragraph with thanks for the employer’s time and their consideration of your job application

Most standard cover letters are much shorter than well-written cover letters. The difference between the two types is that the well-written ones can get you the interview.

In a well-written cover letter, correct grammar, spelling and punctuation, short sentences, simple wording, no jargon and to the point.

Never forget to review your cover letters, even if you consider yourself a master of the language. Anyone can make a careless mistake at any time, such as not adding a contact email or phone number or forgetting to sign the letter.

Another effective attribute of a successful cover letter is its physical appearance. Writing your cover letter on professional-looking letterhead on quality paper helps make a good first impression. Be sure to include the date and inside address, as well as the salutation, complementary closing, and your signature. Also, don’t forget the word “attached” as your resume will be attached to your letter.

A meticulously written cover letter can be critical to the success of a job search. May your search bring you the best job you deserve.