Is there one thing you can say in a cover letter that will guarantee it accomplishes its purpose? Absolutely!
Related: Does Your Cover Letter Make These 5 Critical Mistakes?
A cover letter serves as an introduction to your resume—and to yourself as a candidate for employment. It’s the place to show your interest in the position, and make a personal connection between who you are and why you’re a great fit for the opportunity. Showing your interest is important within the cover letter… However, saying this ONE thing is almost an ultimate guarantee you’ll get the interview.
ASK FOR IT.
You know that old saying, ‘Ask and you shall receive’? It’s true. It may sound like such common sense and obvious advice, but how many times have you sent a cover letter with your resume and not asked for the interview? It’s easy to do!
In the closing paragraph of your cover letter, all you need to do is ask the employer for the interview. I’ve read statistics that have indicated job seekers who ASK for the interview in their cover letters are twice as likely to GET the interview. Below, I’ll give you several examples that you can modify and use in your own cover letter.
Ending #1
I’m excited about the Director of Sales position with XYZ Widgets and would love the opportunity to meet in person to further discuss my experience and the value I can offer you as your next Director of Sales. Please call me at 555.555.5555 to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.
Ending #2
I would love a personal interview at your earliest convenience to further discuss my credentials with you. I can be reached at 555.555.5555 and will follow up as well to make sure you’ve received my information.
Ending #3
Thank you for your time reviewing my resume. I welcome the opportunity to discuss in a personal interview my qualifications and fit for the position. Feel free to reach me at 555.555.5555 at your earliest convenience.
Ending #4
Thank you for your time and consideration. I will follow up in one week to schedule a day and time we can meet to further discuss the position and my experience. You may also reach me at 555.555.5555 to schedule an interview.
(Please note: Ending #4 is a more direct approach.)
You can ask for the interview with any wording you’re comfortable with. The key thing to remember is to close your cover letter by asking for the interview. Want more info? For further reading, check out this article on 5 Things You Should Never Say in Your Cover Letter.
This post was originally published at an earlier date.
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About the author
Jessica Holbrook Hernandez, CEO of Great Resumes Fast is an expert resume writer, career and personal branding strategist, author, and presenter. Want to work with the best resume writer? If you would like us to personally work on your resume, cover letter, or LinkedIn profile—and dramatically improve their response rates—then check out our professional and executive resume writing services at GreatResumesFast.com or contact us for more information if you have any questions.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by a CAREEREALISM-approved expert. You can learn more about expert posts here.
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