5 Tips to Create Successful Cover Letters to present at Job Fairs

Job fairs are events where numerous companies from different sectors meet to hire prospective employees. Whether you are fresh right out from the college or someone with experience in a certain field, you need to present your resume in a manner in which it will get noticed. A career fair is in most cases once in a while opportunity, and you need to make the most out of it to give your career the boost it may require.

If you are carrying out a job search over the internet, then you need to come up with a well planned cover letter as it is this piece of writing that will create the first and the most important impression. In this article, we will discuss some important tips on how to write a successful cover letter for employment opportunities online and at job fairs.

Write your subject line in an appealing manner: 
As your subject line is the first line that gets read, it has a crucial role to play in determining whether the rest of your letter will be read or thrown into the trash. Never leave this line in your email blank or waste its potential by just putting in the job number only. Your subject line should always be clear and address the job you are looking for specifically. We recommend that instead of using your name in the subject line or other information, you instead include your professional title or titles. A simple online search will provide you great examples of subject lines.

Use the standard cover letter protocols:
The body of your email should contain the main letter and you should also include a salutation as well as an appropriate closing, such as “warm regards” or “sincerely”. Leave blank space between the paragraphs and use proper closing lines and signature. Put down all information in your email’s signature line that would be there on your general business card, including mailing address, email address and phone number.

Keep your letter short, precise and dynamic:
Managers who are looking to recruit at job fairs are always busy. So they would prefer to get the basic gist of your job pitch in just 150 words or less. For this reason, the first paragraph is always crucial. You need to hook your reader within the first paragraph by stating your qualities and abilities. Make use of short paragraphs and sentences to briefly let them know who you are as well as what you can accomplish for them; then wrap up your letter in the second paragraph.

Be very specific:
When applying for a job, be very specific and don’t say that you are applying for a graphic designer when you are really looking for a copywriting position. Don’t say you are looking for a great career opportunity when you really want a Customer Service job. Keep your qualifications in mind while you write your cover letter; that way you will be saving time both for yourself as well as your recruiter.

Use keywords strategically:
Many recruiting firms use ATS or applicant tracking systems for finding and screening resumes online.  You need to choose keywords strategically for the job you wish to pursue. You should look at job descriptions and review keywords used in those job descriptions. Using skill-oriented keywords can greatly augment your chances of getting the attention of hiring managers and recruiters at career fairs or online.