Pharmaceutical Career Support

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	Interviewing
	Resumes
	Cover Letters

Cover Letters

Cold Cover Letters
Tips On Writing A Strong Cover Letter


Cold Cover Letters

• A cold cover letter is an unsolicited inquiry about possible
      job opportunities. By sending a letter to a company who’s
      not advertising, your resume won’t end up in a stack with
      hundreds of others.

• Since you’re contacting a company that’s not asking for
      inquiries, you need to state what you can offer – what skills
      and abilities would you bring to the company?

• Research your target company – you’ll be able to write
      knowledgeably about how you’d be an asset to them.

• It’s important to address the letter to a specific person. Again,
      research is the key to getting your resume in front of the
      right person, whether it’s Human Resources or the hiring manager.

• In the body of the letter, include a bulleted list of achievements
      and qualifications that would be a benefit to the company.

• End the letter with a promise to follow up to explore the
      possibility of an interview.      back to top


Tips On Writing A Strong Cover Letter

• Always have a cover letter – your resume should never appear
      by itself on a hiring manager’s desk. It’s your first opportunity
      to present yourself and your qualifications.

• Take some time to personalize each cover letter and say why
      you’re interested in the company. Address it to a specific
      person whenever possible.

• A cover letter should be brief and to the point. Simply state the
      specific job in which you’re interested, 2 to 3 reasons why you’re
      an exceptional candidate and a brief outline of your career
      achievements.

• When highlighting your achievements, use facts, numbers
      and list relevant skills.

• Never include negative information such as personality conflicts
      or sarcastic comments in your cover letter.

• Include salary requirements and/or history only if the company
      requests it. Never include this information on your resume
      – only your cover letter.

• Be proactive in your cover letter – state that you’re available for
      a personal interview; give your home, work and cell phone
      numbers as well as your eamil address.      back to top

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