Write a Targeted Cover Letter for Every Job

Write a Targeted Cover Letter for Every JobWrite a Targeted Cover Letter for Every JobWrite a Targeted Cover Letter for Every JobTheres no getting around it You need to include a targeted cover letter if youre applying for a specific job (form letters wont cut it). As the personenname implies, a targeted cover letter speaks directly to the job youre interested in, using words and phrases that match the job description. Thus, no two targeted cover letters should ever be exactly the same. Its a pain in the butt to tweak your letter for every new job application, but its also one of the best ways to show youre willing toput in the extra effort to do it right.You dont have to rewrite your entire cover letter every time just rearrange and restructure it to fit the specific details of the job opportunity. And dont forget to change the title of the position, the name of the company, and the name and title of the contact person for each jobSo how do you actually write a targeted cover letter ? Take your cue from the job ad (and the company web site). See what keywords and descriptors they use, which qualifications they emphasize, and in which order they list their desired skills. Then mimic those in your letter.For example, below is an actual job posting for a Personal Banking Representative. I highlighted (in bold type) the words or concepts I would include if I were writing a targeted cover letter for this positionThe Job AdPersonal Banking RepresentativeProvides world-class customer service which meets and exceeds the customers expectations.Actively sells banks products and services.Analyzes and determines the financial needs of each customer, matches this need to the appropriate product or service grows profitable customer relationships based on customer satisfaction.Meets and exceeds personal schlussverkauf goals and actively participates in all branch sales and marketing activities.Opens new accounts, processes loan applications, and closes loans according to guid elines.Demonstrates an in-depth knowledge of all consumer product and services.Takes personal responsibility for developing and maintaining knowledge required to fulfill job functions.Performs other duties as requested.May be asked to help out at a neighboring branch.May be asked to travel to meetings.Heres a sample cover letter using those highlighted keywords and phrases to target this employers specific needsThe Targeted Cover LetterDear Ms. BankerThe Personal Banking Representative position strikes meas an outstanding opportunity to contribute my four years of banking and customer service experience to an organization that shares my commitment to relationship-building, professional development, and continuous growth.As an Assistant Banking Representative at XYZ Bank, I have gained an in-depth understanding of how to sell the many products, services, and financing options available to branch banking customers, along with the associated regulations and guidelines. I take pride in providing service that matches the individuals needs, helping ensure customer retention and satisfaction.I am eager to build upon my sales and marketing skills to enhance your organizations profitability. I have earned an Associates Degree in finance, and I make it a priority to pursue continued training and professional development, not only to fulfill job functions but to maintain and develop my knowledge of this industry.I am confident that I can fulfill the role of Personal Banking Representative, excelling at both the official duties and those that arise unexpectedly, to become a valuable member of your team.Best regards,Your personennameBy using the same terminology and explicitly pointing out the parallels between your qualifications and the employers business needs, the readercan easily see the similarities. This leads them into your well-written resume, where yourskills and accomplishments convince them youre a candidate worth further consideration.