The following items combine to create a completely ineffective cover letter:
- Sending three unsolicited cover letters and resumes within a year
- Leaving the subject line of the email blank
- Leaving the email message blank
- Sending the cover letter as an attachment
- Addressing the letter "To Whom it May Concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam" when the manager's name is easily found online and obviously of the opposite gender.
- Soliciting for a position that doesn't exist in the department you sent the letter to.
- Not replying when the reader took the risk to click on the unlabeled message, open the multiple attachments and write back to you to get more information.
A cover letter is your opportunity to target your message to a specific reader, explain why you are writing and highlight your most relevant skills, experience and accomplishments. Don't miss out.
Do you have good or bad examples of letters you've sent or received? Please share them by clicking on the word "comments" below.
