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Writing good cover letters is an important aspect of the job search, particularly if you are applying for a mid-level management or leadership role in manufacturing. While there are many tutorials available for writing cover letters, this can still pose a challenge because many times it can be difficult to get started. There can be a few concerns that stump job seekers, including:

  • What to say, without saying “too much”?
  • What impression will the cover letter make?
  • Is the cover letter is compelling enough?
  • Will it grab the attention of the hiring manager?

Overall, the key to a well-written and effective cover letter is a great personal introduction. This is your chance to shine. By writing a meaningful introduction, you will give the hiring manager a glimpse of who you are and why you are the best fit for their open assignment. Here’s how to get started with writing an outstanding cover letter introduction.

Start with a warm greeting directly to the hiring manager by name. If you don’t know who this is, give the company a quick call and ask the secretary. Use proper titles such as “Mr.” or “Ms.”, followed by a last name as you write the greeting.

Mention how or where you heard about the job. This is especially important if you were referred by a current employee or colleague, an action that can quickly propel you to the top of the pile. If you heard of the job in an advertisement, include a reason why you were compelled to apply as it relates to your skillset and experience.

Highlight your main credentials in your opening statement. For example, you may want to introduce yourself as a “seasoned manufacturing professional with Six Sigma certification and proven team leadership ability. Keep it limited to one sentence that gets to the point quickly, and be sure to use keywords as found in the job advertisement.

Give a list of your top three achievements. Make sure they are relevant to the assignment you are applying to. This is where your cover letter becomes more customized to the assignment itself. Make sure you write them in an easy-to-read format, and again use the keywords found in the career description.

Writing an effective cover letter can take practice, so you may want to write a couple of versions and then have your recruiter at Davis Staffing, or a colleague review it for you before sending it off. Remember, this effort counts as it is the first impression you are providing to the hiring manager. Make sure you take your time, write something that compels, and proof it before sending it over.