1. The cover letter serves as the first interview. It should succinctly tell the reader why you are the right person for this particular job.

2. The cover letter opener should be compelling. It needs to hook the reader and entice him/her to read on.

3. Do not simply restate your resume. Discuss your relevant experiences and transferable skills.

4. Spend the time to determine what the employer is looking for in a candidate. This will help you to determine what to share.

5. Talk about the employer in the cover letter. Make sure the reader knows that you want to work for this particular employer.

6. If there is a job posting, use some of the employer’s language from that ad.

7. The document needs to be free of errors since it is your first writing sample.