The cover letter, as well as the résumé, is a formal business document used for a job application, which should include:
Heading: Your name and address. Also includes the date.
Inside address: name, title and complete address of the person or company you are writing to.
Salutation: is the greeting you include at the beginning of a cover letter.
The body of the letter: write a personable opening paragraph that highlights how your skills are a perfect fit to the job; highlight your past achievements as they relate to the job you're applying for; and highlight additional relevant skills.
Closing: briefly recap your strengths as a candidate, include your contact information and write a closing (e.g. "Yours truly" or "sincerely").
Your signature: place a comma after your close and then put your name on the line below.
Some tips to write a cover letter
Never write a generic cover letter. A good cover letter presents a focused narrative of why you're interested in this employer and why you'd be a good fit for this job. Just like with your resume, your cover letters should be customized for each job you apply to. Start by reviewing the job description. In it, you will find important keywords that let you know what kind of employee the company is hoping to find. Use these same keywords throughout your cover letter.
An effective first paragraph of the cover letter explains why you're interested in the employer. You must marshal evidence demonstrating that you understand why this employer is different, and it's that difference that attracts you. Each version of your cover letter should talk about how your skills will benefit the particular company that you want to work for.
Be specific when showing why you're good fit. Coherence is the key. Have the discipline to list only experiences relevant to the employer. Your cover letter should demonstrate that you have done some research into what the organization's pain points are. Present yourself as a solution to a hiring manager’s problem.
Keeping the cover letter short. Add only the relevant informaction.
Slowly review your cover letter to make sure everything reads properly. Have someone else read your cover letter for backup.
Preferably print and hand-deliver your cover letter and résumé; unless distance makes it impossible. If you send it by e-mail, your cover letter could be buried between ads.
Examples
Sources DESANTIS, A. (2015). Writing an Effective Cover Letter. Student Lawyer, 43(7), 37-38. WEBER, M. (2015). Do's and Don'ts for Resumes and Cover Letters. Student Lawyer, 44(1), 32-33.
B. You are applying for a job in Shikhar Organization. Select one of the job offers (Marketing officers, Acountant or Marketing Assistant). Then, write a one-page cover letter outlining your skills and experience. You must include the six parts of the cover letter. On the link below, you can find cover letter templates. However, remember to personalize it. Do not do it generic.
C. When you have finished, exchange with a partner to give suggestions for improvement.