6 Tips for Physicians on Writing a Good Cover Letter

1. Personalize your greeting

2. Opening

3.Personalize your letter

4. The next paragraph should be about your employment and education

5. Limitations

6. Closing

Writing a good cover letter is the first step towards employment. Many employers read cover letters first to determine which resume they will read. Therefore, you will want a strong cover letter to help you stand out in the crowd. Here are six tips to writing a good cover letter. Many people will want to write “To Whom it Concerns” to begin their cover letter. While this is acceptable your resume will not be seen if you choose to start your cover letter with this greeting. Do your research. Find out who the head physician, recruiter, practice administrator is who will be looking at your letter. At least write the name of someone at the practice that potentially might be looking at your cover letter. A name from the practice is better than a generic greeting.In the first paragraph be sure to introduce yourself and explain why you want the current position you are applying for. Be sure to research the specific job you are applying for, because in this paragraph you will explain why you are the best fit for the position. Do not brag, but do not hold back on your credentials.Find out what is around the practice and the town or city where it is located. You might say that you are interested in this position because the schools in the area look impressive for your children. Drop tidbits about the town and why you would want to live or work there. Maybe they have a nice park where you can take your family or a thriving theater district where you will spend your free time. Try and connect the place you are applying to with the reason you want the position.You will want to mention your most current employer and/or your education. Do not repeat any bullet points that are listed in your resume. This is the place to expand your information. You may want to consult cover letter templates to find out ways to expand your employment and education paragraph.Do not limit your availability to your employer. Let them know you are open for any opportunity they may have available. You do not want to set any limits in your cover letter or they may just go on to the next one. Employers want people who are willing to be flexible. Once you are offered the position you may then consider negotiations. Right now, you want them to read your resume not put aside your cover letter.In the closing part of your letter, be sure to thank them for the opportunity. Let them know you will be following up with a phone call and be sure to let them know how they can reach you. Reiterate your qualifications briefly and sign off politely. Follow up with a call anyway if you do not hear from them within four or so days.

Your cover letter is one page where you can show who you are and why the company should hire you. Make sure your cover letter stands out with correct punctuation. Check for grammar errors and keep it neat. Being concise and broad at the same time may seem like a challenge but if you set your mind to it, and write a few drafts, your letter is bound to impress. Make your letter personal and personable and be sure to include names and details from the company. Be sure to close concisely and politely and you should have a winning cover letter.

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Jane Hurst is a writer, editor and avid traveler from San Francisco. Contact her at About.me.