What is the proper tone of a cover letter?
By Megan Brooks
Cover letters serve as an introduction to your resume and professional profile. It is seen first, before the employer looks at your resume. It would be logical to assume then, that the employer will make a 'first assessment' of your candidacy based on the cover letter that you submit. Your cover letter therefore, should convey:

• Interest in the position applied for.
• Your professional abilities and your capability.
• Enthusiasm to carry out the task.

Despite the significance of the cover letter, many of them end up looking like they are opportunities that were not utilized well or were wasted efforts. Your cover letter should not be just a repeat of the facts contained in the resume. Make sure that the tone of your cover letter is not one that borders on disinterest or the lack of relevant communication. Unfortunately, if you are merely rehashing your resume on your cover letter in the space of three paragraphs, it is a distinct put off for most employers and will do absolutely nothing for your candidacy.

More specifically, your cover letter must convince the recruiter that you are the right candidate for the job. The tone of your cover letter should be distinctly upbeat without sounding overly aggressive or going over-the-top when it comes to speaking about your accomplishments.

Write why you thought of applying for the position in the first place, highlight any personal interest angle, if applicable, and express your interest in the company, the position, and the work culture that the company espouses. Make your cover letter interesting and something along the lines that tells the employer more about you as an individual.

Your cover letter should 'talk' to the recruiter, present your interest in the job in a sincere and compelling manner, and allow the recruiter to 'see' that you are someone who understands the job well. In your cover letter, it is far more important to convey that you understand the requirements of the position instead of making it appear like you think you are the best person for the job.