Ten Cover Letters Don'ts to Avoid

Your cover letter is the first thing employers see when they open your materials. Avoid these 10 mistakes, and make your first impression a lasting one.

1. Don't Overuse "I."
   Your cover letter is not your autobiography. The focus should be on how you meet an employer's needs, not on your life story. Avoid the perception of being self-centered by minimizing your use of the word "I," especially at the beginning of your sentences.
2. Don't Use a Weak Opening.
   Job seekers frequently struggle with how to begin a cover letter. What results is often a feeble introduction lacking punch and failing to grab the reader's interest. It is critical to "speak" to the potential employer and let them know that you are very much in touch with who they are, what they actually do, and how you see yourself fitting in to the fray. It's a "selfish" industry in that every employer when reading a cover letter & resume will ask themselves "how does this benefit me?"
3. Don't Omit Your Top Selling Points.
   A cover letter is a sales letter that sells you as a candidate. Just like the resume, it should   be compelling and give the main reasons why you should be called for an interview. Winning cover letter strategies include emphasizing your top accomplishments, your understanding of the organization and what you are offering for them.
4. Don't Make It Too Long or Too Short.
   If your cover letter is only one or two short paragraphs, it probably doesn't contain enough key information to sell you effectively. If it exceeds one page, you may be putting readers to sleep. Keep it concise but compelling, and be respectful of readers' time.
5. Don't Repeat Your Resume Word-for-Word.
   Your cover letter shouldn't just regurgitate what's on your resume. Reword your cover letter statements to avoid dulling your resume's impact. Consider using the letter to tell the potential employer something they do not know about you and your connection with their organization and the postition within. Be personal and be concise.
6. Don't Be Vague.
   If you're replying to an advertised opening, reference the specific job title in your cover letter if one is mentioned. The person reading your letter may be reviewing hundreds of letters for dozens of different positions. Make sure all the content in your letter supports how you will meet the employer's specific needs and that there is a strong intentionality behind your application.
7. Don't Forget to Customize.
   If you're applying to a number of similar positions, chances are you're tweaking one letter and using it for multiple openings. That's not the first recommendation we would offer as it is critical that you are customizing each one. When using a "template" or some common form among many letters remember to not forget to update the organization, job, and contact information -- if Mr. Jones is addressed as Mrs. Smith, they won't be impressed!
8. Don't End on a Passive Note.
   Put your future in your own hands by being proactive and with a promise to follow up.  Instead of asking readers to call you, try a statement like: "I will follow up with you in a few days to answer any preliminary questions you may have." In the meantime, you may reach me at (555) 555-1212.
9. Don't Be Rude.
   Remember that someone is reading your letter, if they do choose to actually do so, at the expense of doing something else so your cover letter should thank the reader for their timeand consideration.
10. Don't Forget to Sign the Letter.
    It is proper business etiquette (and shows attention to detail) to sign your letter,preferably in black pen. However, if you are sending your cover letter and resume via email or the Web, a signature isn't necessary.