Having quite desirable skills in the IT field is essential, but it will not help you if your resume is overlooked. You need to give the the employer a motive to look at your resume. A cover letter is what is used to catch their attention so that they will want to look at your resume.
Most employers in times like these get too many applicants to bother reading every single resume they receive. If they pick up a resume and it has a great cover letter, they will most likely want to know more. After reading a great cover letter, they might call you in for an interview. The purpose of a good cover letter is to get you in and get an interview appointment. Often, it is the cover letter that will help you to land the job. If they like what you say in your letter, they may let certain skills slide, and interview you anyway.
The IT field is becoming very challenging and makes it hard to find a nice job. Years ago, there were a limited number of people who were qualified for computer positions, but that is no longer the case. You need to make sure that you stand out or they may never see how qualified you are, or how well you fit the position.
Writing a great cover letter starts with brainstorming on what the employer is seeking in their applicants, and seeing if you have those attributes. If you have some but not all, focus on the attributes you do have. Make yourself look very desirable and tell them how you are going to be an asset to their company. Tell them specifically why they should hire you, and what you can do for them. This is your time to showcase what you can offer them.
Dig deep into what the perspective employer is looking for. A job description is the best place to start. In order to show them that you will be an asset to their company, you will need to know exactly what they are looking for.
Now is your time to show off. Make yourself look good! Be straight to the point and write with confidence. Employers are drawn to candidates that are sure of themselves. Don't be afraid to toot your own horn, this is where you would do that. Thank them for their time, and ask them to reach you directly. Tell them you would like to meet with them and go into further detail about your skills. Leave them your name, address and cell number so that they can contact you.
Keep the cover letter long enough to promote yourself, but short enough where you won't need to include any fluff. Always be concise and straightforward. Make sure your resume and cover letter are printed on the same type of paper, and that the paper is neat. Follow the employer's application guidelines. Follow the appropriate letter format and always have someone proofread your letter before you send it. Spelling errors, grammar errors can keep you from being interviewed so watch out. Best of luck!
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