Cover letters. I think that these can be the most confusing and misunderstood part of the job search. It was one of the hardest things for me to do when I was looking for a job.

What's the point?
The point is, a cover letter's purpose is to get a recruiter to call you back. And as J.T. Tanner O'Donnell says, it's probably not going to happen if you start out your letter with, "I saw your ad and wanted to apply..."

Answer their questions.
Employers are looking for how you can fit into the job. So do exactly that: highlight your experience and reference that - comparing it to the job description and how you fullfill the requirements and duties that are outlined for you.

Some other tips that J.T. and Dale suggest in Cover Letter Do's answering these questions:

What are you successes?

What makes you good at what you do?

How has your work inspired you?

What value do you provide?

How would you describe yourself honestly and humbly?

These questions will help make your cover letter more appealing and interesting. You can find other tips on a previous post: Cover Letter to "Wow" Hiring Personnel.

- Rosie Reilman, Photo by Dano , Hat tip Career Coach Examiner

The Employment Guide Atlanta Edition - January 12-18, 2009