General or target-specific cover letter? Which one is best?

Preparing a cover letter can also be a challenge if you are not familiar with the job you are applying for or your first time since you submitted the one for a previous company. You have no idea what you have to include and which you should follow, a general or target-specific cover letter? 

What is a Target-specific Cover Letter?
 
A cover letter can be attention-grabbing if you write it for a particular target job and company. As you may know, employers are usually reviewing numerous applications and it can be too hard for them to look specifically at the one you submitted. So, how are you going to create a target-specific cover letter that would grab the attention of the employer? And make it for you to pass the next phase of the application?
 
Some employers are posting job descriptions on a website regarding what they are looking for from a candidate. Take advantage of the job posting so you can get ideas of the qualifications and requirements of the job that match your knowledge, skills, and abilities. 
 
For instance, if they need an analytical accountant, a problem-solver, and an excellent communicator; then, you should include relevant and direct examples of your accomplishments as an analytical accountant or problem solver. Rephrase the description differently and attractively incoherence to the job’s requirements.
 
Example from the job posting:
Possess analytical, problem-solving, and excellent communication skills.
 
In your cover letter:
My excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities as an accountant,  and outstanding communication skills, would be essential in identifying resolutions to various challenges in the company.
 
Another tip, you should address your cover letter to the specific hiring manager and company to make it more personalized and target-specific.
 
What is a General Cover Letter?
 
If you will send your resume to job boards or various job sites, you should prepare a general cover letter. A generic cover letter is more advisable if you have no specific target company to submit your application.
 
So, what should your general cover letter have?
 
Start your cover letter with a generic greeting such as Dear Sir or Madam, To Whom It May Concern, or Dear Hiring Manager.
 
The next is the body of the letter which should have your core competencies, list of strengths, and job skills, as well as descriptions of your jobs. It is unnecessary to include the target position since your goal is to submit your application to various job sites.
 
The last part of your letter must convince the hiring manager of the value you can offer to the company. The wording has to ensure that you will get a chance for an interview.
 
See an example of a generic or general cover letter:
 
Date
 
 
Dear Hiring Manager,
 
I am a multifaceted and goal-focused professional seeking an opportunity to succeed within your good company. Combining my previous experience with solid management skills, I am confident that you will quickly realize my ability to bring significant contributions. 
 
I possess the capability to execute various accounting duties, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, bank reconciliation, and general ledger. In addition to this, I am proficient in analyzing data, preparing reports, and handling financial statements and other accounting documents. I am a highly organized team player, able to perform multiple tasks.
 
I believe that my work experiences are in perfect line with your current needs. Attached is my resume to expound more on my qualifications. I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.
 
Thank you for your consideration.
 
 
Sincerely yours,
 
John Brown
 
Enclosed: Resume
 
 
Now that you have the idea of what to prepare for your future applications, you can choose which one is best for you, a general or a target-specific cover letter? You need to consider key differences between the two before creating a cover letter.

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To learn more about how to write a General or target-specific cover letter, schedule a call today to speak with one of our career experts. 
 
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