Upwork Cover Letter Guidelines (What to include OR exclude)

I have been working on oDesk for that last 5 months (from now i.e April 12, 2012) and got good ideas about oDesk cover letter guidelines. I'm not saying that I have learned everything, but I am just sharing my personal experience. I will not write the long stories, but will try to mention the important points only.

What should you include in Cover Letter?

• Always write a unique cover letter for each job post.
• Write each of your cover letter individually, targeting the specific needs or requirements per job post.
• Always use the same keywords the employer did. This shows that you were paying attention to the job post.
• Answer specific questions or include special keywords the employer put in the job description to prove you can follow directions well.
• Provide links directly to some relevant examples of your work (if any). Make sure you've added the sample work in your portfolio.
• Try to inform the employer about your availability (when and how much you can work).
• Always find a gender-neutral way to say hello, say "Dear Hiring Manager" or use the employer's name (if they've mentioned it).

What should you exclude from Cover Letter?

• Don't start with a "To Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Sir" greeting. Neither adds any value and they may even offend some employers.
• Don't use one cover letter over and over again even if the job you are applying fall on the same category.
• Aside from sending generic and irrelevant contents.
• Cover letters should not contain any contact information (your email address, chat ID, etc.).
• Exchange of contact information can be made during the interview phase only.
• Don't start with a "To Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Sir" greeting.

Thanks for reading my post, and don't forget to see Odesk Cover Letter Sample. I'll appreciate you comments.