If you’re looking for a new job, your CV and your cover letter are the two documents that could either make or break a deal for you. Most HR managers and departments screen applicants first on the basis of their CV and then their cover letter. Usually, if the CV comes across as showcasing a candidate to be “impressive and qualified enough” then the potential employer will read the cover letter and accompanying documents thoroughly to finally decide whether to shortlist a candidate or not.

Therefore, the cover letter should be drafted carefully, keeping in mind that it plays a major role for you. A usual cover letter and one that includes salary requirements have not too much difference between them. To draft one that has salary requirements, you could follow the general format of one that doesn’t.

Below are a few pointers / guidelines to keep in mind while drafting your next cover letter with salary requirements:

–Start the introduction in a very formal tone and address the reader with respect. Considering that the reader has to be impressed, use formal, corporate language.

For Example:

Dear Sir,

I am a highly skilled and qualified accounting professional with approximately 5-6 years of experience. I also have adequate experience in the fields of operational strategies and administration.

–From the above, you will also notice that there is no name mentioned in the first 2-3 lines. That’s because its advisable to put your name at a place that easily accessible to read (your potential employer shouldn’t have to scan an entire page to find your contact details and name). With that in mind, be sure to write details like your name, contact number, mailing address and e-mail id clearly on the top left hand of the letter.

–Continue to the next 4th and 5th line in a formal manner similar to the example above by talking about what you can do for the organisation you are applying to in brief.

For Example:

My extensive work experience has taught me to multi-task and respect deadlines and I do feel that this is crucial to an accounting job. If given a chance to work with your company I assure you of the timely delivery of quality and accurate work.

–The first 2 paragraphs of your cover letter should basically talk about you and what you want to do in the company in brief.

–After that you can write a sentence or two about meeting the requirement of the organisation.

For Example:

If you are seeking a qualified and professional individual who looks for challenges and opportunities to learn then I do believe that I can be the right person for the job.

–Continue the rest by making bullet points about your key strengths and skills or achievements.

For Example:

You will find my resume attached and below are some of my key strengths and achievements:
Capable of quickly comprehending and assessing an organization’s financial and administrative management procedures, information systems and internal controls to ensure that records are accurate.
Highly developed financial and business communications skills with the ability to confidently interact with a diverse range of customers and business partners.
Excellent ability to manage complex accounts while meeting strict regulatory standards.
Won the “best new employee” award at the previous workplace.

–End the letter now with a concluding paragraph that sums up how perfect for the company you can be and what salary range you expect to earn there.

For Example:

My accounting and administrative skills are well suited to the goals of your company and an acceptable salary range for this job is $xxxx to $xxxx not including benefits or supplements. I would appreciate an interview so I can better explain to you what my contributions to the company can be.

You may contact me directly at any time, I look forward to your call.

Thank you for your consideration,

Sincerely,

Mr. XXXX

So as you can see, there is almost an entire letter written up there and this can be a good basis for your format. Add and edit to it as much as you think and feel to, remembering at the same time to always keep a cover letter short, simple, precise and formal.

Short because

You are not writing to a friend. Furthermore you are one of hundreds of applicants. Most employers just glance through every applicant’s documents so if you write a longer than necessary letter, your words will just be a waste.

Simple because

No one wants to be left confused after reading your application letter. If they don’t understand what you’re trying to say, they will just flip it over for the next CV. Keep it simple, use simple words, don’t sound too eager and don’t sound too flamboyant.

Precise because

What an employer is looking for essentially is: skills and qualifications. Therefore, write briefly about you and focus on your core skills.

Formal because

Well, you’re talking to a potential employer, not a friend! So keep it serious, keep it formal.