I have a resume, but I have no idea what to put in a cover letter. What are you supposed to put in one?
The cover letter needs to show that you know to whom you are applying and that the company (or person) gets to know a little bit about you. So, in stead of simply "Dear Sir" it should state the name of the specific person to whom the application is going. Show some knowledge of the company, particularly of the department to which you are applying (for instance if the sales dropped that year or if they made some discovery, invention, etc).
It should say what you are like, to work with, what you value in an employer, how (specifically) you can help the company, your expectations (not simply salary but mainly work environment -- friendly, team-oriented, etc). and, most importantly, that you expect (not want) an interview so that you can show them how good you are. |