Make sure you include a customized cover message when applying for a position. A cover message should introduce your rsum, highlight your strengths in terms of benefits to the reader, and request an interview. Follow your judgment when deciding whether to write a brief or long cover message. Your message should include an opening that introduces your message and identifies the position, a body that sells you as a candidate and focuses on the employers needs, and a closing that requests an interview and motivates action.

1.Which option is the best opening for a cover message for a solicited job?

My finance degree and training in financial advising qualify me for the investment officer position you advertised on ExactEmployee.com.

Because of my education and training, I believe I am qualified for the finance position you advertised.

I am qualified for the position you advertised on ExactEmployee.com because of my employment background.

2.Which is the best opening for an unsolicited job cover message?

Because GenX is a large company, I thought perhaps you need someone that could contribute to your pharmaceutical department. Could you use someone with my sales, research, and teaching experience?

Congratulations on your recent merger with GenX. Because of your rapid growth and success, could you use the services of a practiced researcher with five years of experience in pharmaceutical sales, three years of university teaching experience, and two years of successful research experience?

I hope you are looking for an experienced researcher in the field of pharmaceuticals. Can you use someone like me with my credentials and experience?

3.Which statement is most appropriate for the body of a cover message?

The courses I took in business, finance, and accounting have enhanced my business knowledge.

Courses in business, finance, and accounting have enhanced my knowledge of successful business management and client financial services.

I have successfully completed courses in business, finance, and accounting.

4.Which statement is most appropriate to include in the closing of a cover message?

I hope my accomplishments have convinced you that I am more than qualified for this position. I will expect a call from you to schedule an interview. I can be contacted at (435) 555-7832.

This brief description of my qualifications and my rsum should demonstrate my readiness for this position. Will you hire me for this position? Please call me at (435) 555-7832.

My accomplishments in the finance and accounting field, as well as the skills I learned in my summer internship, have prepared me for this position. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications more fully in an interview. Please call me at (435) 555-7832 before 11 a.m. or after 5 p.m.

5.When sending your cover message in an e-mail, which of the following should you do? Check all that apply.

Eliminate your mailing address.

Convert your cover message to plain text.

Keep your cover message to one line.

Include your e-mail address and phone number.