The cover letter is a crucial element of the job search. Also known as a letter or application, it indicates formal application for a specific position and usually accompanies the resume. The three types of cover letters, those designed to generate leads, those responding to a classified ad, and those resulting from a referral, generally follow the same three-part format.

The first paragraph mentions how the job hunter learned of the job opening and which specific position is desired. The body of the letter, usually one to two paragraphs long, is used to describe the applicant's strong points, such as education, work experience, and special skills or positive qualities. The closing paragraph cites the overall purpose for the cover letter: the interview. The job hunter politely indicates what the next step in the process should be.

Alternative letter writing strategies include a problem/solution style, an inverted pyramid format or deductive or inductive forms, which alternately start or end with a general statement about a particular skill and then support that thesis with specific examples. Many applicants opt to insert a bulleted list in the body of the letter to highlight relevant experience, or related skills, for example.

To be most effective, cover letters should be personalized for each job, one page long, scannable and professional looking. They reveal your enthusiasm for the particular job, call attention to the attached resume, and allow one more opportunity for you to highlight special talents and skills.