How do I write a general cover letter for a job application website?

I want to post my resume on a website that has postings for numerous jobs that I might be qualified for. This site allows you to post your resume and one cover letter and then you can click on the particular jobs that you want to apply for. All of my previous job applications have been targeted at a particular position --and I worded the cover letters accordingly. How do I write a cover letter that adequately shows my strengths without targeting a particular job/position or employer?

A cover letter is always a good idea. It gives enough information about you and your capabilities so that the employer will be interested in talking with your personality.

The letter should relate specifically to the company and person to whom you are writing. If you haven't already done so, find out as much as you can about each firm and individual you plan to ask for an interview. Try to talk with some one who has been working with the firm, ask for literature, such as the annual report that explains the firm and its policies, check the company's WEB SITE, or check out the firm at Hoover's Online, The Wall Street Journal's Career Journal or Wet Feet's Company Profiles.

1. Use correct grammar.

2. Address it to a specific person by name, including the job title in the inside address.

Include the following:

a) Brief greeting including how you heard about the opening

b) The position you are applying for

c) Your basic qualifications for the position and any accomplishments or career highlights that might interest the employer enough to contact you

d) Any other information you feel is pertinent to the specific job without repeating information found in your resume. Justify any holes in the resume if necessary, like the five year gap when you didn't work at all!

e) End with a paragraph requesting an interview, including your phone number and e-mail address and when you can be reached.

BE SURE YOU INCLUDE THE DATE ...A RETURN ADDRESS... AND AN INSIDE ADDRESS.

E-mails don't need addresses.

Sign the letter in blue or black ink only. NO EMOTICONS :)

These are all valid concerns that you should bring to your local Resume Writing Service Center. They'll help your fine-tune that cover letter and resume so you'll stand out from the rest.

Some of the ones I found through the yellow pages in Seattle:

Best Resume (206) 381-8599 - , seattle, WA

Powerful Resumes Plus (866) 704-4479

Writing Wolf (206) 568-2373 - 803 East Denny Way No. 102, Seattle, WA

Good luck!

Create multiple accounts so you can still have tailored cover letters for each position.