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Even if you are submitting a résumé electronically, a cover letter is still essential. It’s your introduction to the employer, and writing a standout cover letter can give you a serious edge. Many people don’t send one, so doing so puts you ahead. The other advantage of a cover letter is that you can tailor it to a particular job even more so than you can a résumé.

KISS OF DEATH

Typos, misspellings, and poor grammar in a résumé or cover letter can be the kiss of death. Ask a language-savvy friend to read them over for you. If you mention any breed names, be sure to double check the spellings.

If possible, find out the name of the person who will be receiving your cover letter and résumé. It’s always best if you can address it to an individual rather than the generic “Dear Sir or Madam,” but that will do if you don’t have a name. Don’t use a breezy “Hey there!” or other informal greeting.

Explain why you are writing—in response to a job posting or because you were referred by someone, for instance. Follow by describing why you are a good candidate, with details to show you are familiar with the company and industry. Make the cover letter about how your skills can benefit the company, not about your goals.

The cover letter is a good place to highlight qualities or experiences that don’t fit well in a résumé format, as well as specific achievements. Telling a story about your background, such as how you grew up in a family that was passionate about dogs and learned how to train and care for them at your mother’s knee, can personalize your background.

Close your letter with a promise to follow up and thank the person for taking the time to consider your application, followed by “Sincerely” or “Cordially” and your name. If you’re sending the letter by e-mail, your printed name is fine, but always sign a piece of correspondence sent by snail mail or fax. You can double your chances of an interview by following up an e-mail submission of your cover letter and résumé with a hard copy sent by regular mail. Include a handwritten note saying that it’s a second submission and that you’re very interested in the position.