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.
