need help with cover letters

I usually just improvise each time but, I usually don’t get even an acknowledgement of receipt when sending my resume.

1)
What do people say to prospective employers when you just “cold call”, not answering an ad?

I have a couple of places that I had come close to getting interviews with in the past but, were cancelled at the last minute. I would like to send my resume to them again now that I have just completed my MCSA along with my other certs.

I also want to be able to send my resume to places that I have had no prior dealings with.

2)
What do you say in cover letters when answering an ad?

I do not work in the IT field.

Thank you.

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Comments

ehnde

Why don't you post a sample cover letter and we'll see what needs to be changed.

Priston

Here's a Start

Dear Hiring Manager/HR,

I am applying for the position of -insert title here- which I saw listed on -insert ad location-. I believe my education, experience, and proven ability will make me a valuable addition to -company name-.

-insert fluff about yourself-

I would welcome the opportunity to participate in a interview to answer any questions and discuss further how my qualifications can benefit -company name-'s need to initiate and maintain all of its IT needs.

petedude

Would like to see some more conversation on this one. The sample cover letter above is close to what I use, but would like any input the more seasoned folks on this board have to share.

TIA. . .

Priston

Everyone's cover letter is going to be different.

I think the first paragraph should be something that says you want a position working for the company your applying to.

The mid section of the cover letter is going to be something that you think makes you stand out, it could be work experience, certifications, and/or education.
Then the ending paragraph would be something that says feel free to contact me with any questions.

mikedisd2

This is a subject that is rarely discussed here. I would like to know how other people write their cover letter. In the past I've used the following:

In response to the advertisement placed on <job board> I wish to be considered for the position of <job>.

For your consideration I have enclosed a copy of my resume. I have over ten years experience in the information technology field as a <job title>. Much of my skill set is transferrable, with vendor products like Microsoft, Cisco, VMWare being commonly utilised throughout the <city> metropolitan area. I am enthusiastic about broadening my exposure and experience of new technologies to create solutions for the administrative challenges facing today’s corporate IT space.

All of my IT positions have incorporated a high level of customer / client interaction and I consider client satisfaction to be one of the most important aspects of any support related role. I am a motivated and team oriented professional and believe that I can be an asset to any company. Please refer to my resume for full details of my qualifications and work history. I look forward to discussing my application with you at an interview or over the phone.

I may also include things like:
I am presently completing a six month contract as a <job title> at <company> and am seeking a similar employment position;
I am available to start immediately after my contract finishes on Friday 20th February 2011.

I've never really been comfortable with my cover letter and it could be rewritten to cater for a higher end market.

Of course, a lot of times a recruiter will call back and ask about my current situation, when I'm available to start a new job, etc; evidence that they didn't even glance at my letter. Despite this I believe it's an important document to get right.