In the electronic job market, cover letters are nearly obsolete. To underestimate the potential of a well-thought-out and well-written cover letter is to miss out on a key opportunity to call attention to your candidacy. You will also miss the chance to display your strengths – the accomplishments and abilities that never make it onto your resume because of space limitations. So never forward a resume without a personalized cover letter.

A cover letter summarizes the jobseeker’s relevant experience, expresses interest in the job position, and demonstrates writing ability. It should be tailored to demonstrate what you can do and how you can benefit the employer, help solve a particular business problem, or capture a specific business opportunity. Whereas your resume is to summarize your qualifications, experience and achievements, the cover letter is to create a compelling reason for the recipient, the hiring manager, to want to review your resume. It represents a golden chance to demonstrate your creativity, knowledge of the employer’s business, ability as a communicator, and, in general, stand out from everyone else.

1. THREE MAIN TYPES

There are three main types of cover letter to consider when searching for a job:

• Cover letter to accompany your resume in response to an advertised job vacancy,
• Cold/speculative letter and
• Networking letter.

Cover Letter with a Resume in response to an Advertisement

This type of cover letter is probably the easiest of the three to put down on paper. The employer will be expecting to receive it and will have provided you with clues as to the identity of the ideal candidate they are seeking. For you, as the jobseeker, it is simply a matter of identifying these clues and applying them to your resume and cover letter.

If you know the criteria for the position, one highly recommended approach is a two-column, “You Asked For – I have” cover letter.

Cold / Speculative Letter

Cold/speculative letters take a different tack by attempting to communicate with the recipient of an employer without having a clear idea of their needs and wants. The important thing to remember is to conduct research of the employer and apply the principle of quality and not quantity. These letters have been shown to work if you target the employer correctly, making it more likely that the recipient will have a real interest and, more importantly, a need for your skills and abilities. Sending a generic letter to lots of employers in the hope of getting a job offer just would not work.

Networking Letter

Such letters differ from the previous two in that you are merely making contact with the recipient on the recommendation of another. You are, in effect, setting your selling points in the hope that the recipient may be to able assist you. Always state in your letter how you got the recipient’s name and say why you are writing.

2. HOW TO WRITE IT

Your cover letter should create interest and augment, not merely restate, your resume. It should be concise – make sure it fits into one page – and have a central purpose or theme telling employers what you can do for them as opposed to what they can do for you. Each of these types of letter takes a slightly different form, although they broadly have the following format:

• Your name and address
• Date
• Name, title/department, employer name and address of the person you are writing to
• Salutation
• Reference title
• Body
• Closing

Avoid shortcutting this style. Employers want to see, at the very least, that you are familiar with the basics of business correspondence. To be seen as a consummate professional, all of your communication must be formal. Examples 1, 2 and 3 are samples of standard cover letters.

Example 1: Sample cover letter to accompany a resume in response to advertised vacancy

Mr. Tan Kok Seng
Block 200, Any Mo Kio Avenue 3
#08-1000, Singapore 560200

6 May 2012

Mr. Robert Yap
Managing Director
ABC Engineering Ltd
100 Serangoon Road
Singapore 235688

Dear Mr. Yap

Re: Global Business Director – The Straits Times, 4 May 2012

As a senior executive with more than 10 years’ experience in Fortune 500 companies, I have applied proven skills in strategic planning, business development and management, marketing, and program management to outmaneuver competition, drive business programs, accelerate growth in client base, and attain solid sales revenue in the healthcare industry across Asia Pacific:

• Nipro: Initiated new business in Asia Pacific growing sales from US$0 to US$30 millions over 3 years – 50% of total group’s revenue in healthcare business globally;
• Beckon Dickenson: Total business growth from US$10 millions to US$50 millions over 5 year.

I am presenting for your review my skills, achievements, global healthcare industry knowledge, experience in sales and marketing of high value products and services within Asia Pacific, and ability to attain set revenue and profitability targets so that we can discuss my joining ABC Engineering as a member of your senior business management team of your healthcare division. It should be mutually beneficial to meet and discuss how I can help accelerate or turn around sales revenue and profit growth contributing to your company’s future success.

I will contact you next week to request an interview. If, in the meantime, you would like to contact me, please call my cell phone anytime at xxxx-xxxx. Thank you.

Yours sincerely

KSTan

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Example 2: Sample cold/speculative letter

Mr. Tan Kok Seng
Block 200, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3
#08-1000, Singapore 560200

6 May 2012

Mr. Robert Yap
Area Director
ABC Superstores Ltd
100 Serangoon Road
Singapore 235688

Dear Mr. Yap

I read with interest an article in The Business Times of 2 May 2012 that you are to open a store in Shanghai, China in January 2013.

As an experienced and highly motivated sales executive with ten years’ experience within a retail environment, of which the recent two years have been in Suzhou. I have intimate knowledge of the local environment, culture, language and sensitivity. I would be particularly interested in finding out more about your opportunities. As you will see from my resume, I have an excellent work record and have achieved consistently throughout my career.

I would value the opportunity to discuss any suitable position in more details and look forward to hearing from you. I can be contacted at xxxx-xxxx.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Yours sincerely

KSTan

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Example 3: Sample networking letter

Mr. Tan Kok Seng
Block 200, Ang Mo Kio Avenue
#08-1000, Singapore 560200

6 May 2012

Mr. Robert Yap
Managing Director
ABC Engineering Ltd
100 Serangoon Road
Singapore 235688

Dear Mr. Yap

I have followed your company’s progress with interest over the last few years, especially in my capacity as sales director of one of your main competitors, DEF Precision. We have been especially strong in China and I noticed that you have recently entered Shanghai.

I spoke to a good friend of mine recently, Mr. Johnson Goh, MD of XYZ Fabrications, who suggested that I write to you.

My extensive experience of business in the China market has been developed over the last five years and as you have recently entered the arena, I would like to offer my experience and proven capabilities to help develop your organization into the market leader.

I would be delighted to discuss any opportunities you may have available and I enclose a copy of my resume for your perusal. Perhaps I could telephone you next week to arrange a suitable time to meet?

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely

KSTan

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Where to Send It

You should address your cover letter to a specific person by name and title – spelled correctly. Mass mailing your resume is not only ineffective, but it can also be counterproductive. Your goal is to separate yourself from the competition, not merely blend in to the crowd.

Never begin a cover letter with, “To Whom It May Concern”, or worst still, “Dear Sir” when the recipient, the hiring manager, is Ms Irene Lim, the Vice President of Finance and your prospective boss. If there is no way to find out the addressee’s name, it would be better to use “Dear Hiring Manager”.

Lastly, do not insult the recipient by using a form letter approach where you write in the addressee’s name on the blank line.

2.1 What’s in It for Them

Hiring managers are primarily interested in how you can make their job easier, how you can make them look better, and how you can make the company more successful, usually in that order. So, always make sure you convey how your background and experience will benefit them personally. Too many jobseekers start off their cover letters by stating why they are seeking to make changes, why they lost their jobs, why they are not interested in the company, or other things pertaining to them. What they should be doing is emphasizing what they can do for the hiring manager or the company.

Introductory Paragraph

The introductory paragraph must “grab” the hiring manager to make him/her wants to read further. It should include a fact-oriented, hard-hitting capsule overview of your achievements and skills extracted from your resume.

The following modular paragraphs are examples that you can refer to grasp the concept. Feel free to modify relevant ones to fit your own situation:

• As a central figure in (ABC Engineering’s massive restructuring), I applied leadership and executive skills in (general management), (people management), … and (communications) to facilitate ABC’s turnaround to profitability. I likewise produced multi-million dollar profits/savings for the company through (effective operations management initiatives driving solid improvement in quality, yield and resource utilization, significant reduction in cost, and increased deployment of advanced engineering technologies in manufacturing).
• I have combined my (business degree), (global experience) and executive skills in (general management), (strategic planning), … and (business development) to (establish and direct new operations in Southeast Asia and China which have generated millions in revenue for well-respected international companies).
• As a (Human Resource Manager of a European-based corporation), I have applied proficient skills in … to … achieve …
• As a senior executive (professional) with more than (10) years’ experience in Fortune 500 companies, I have applied proven skills in … to … achieve …
• I have formulated and executed innovative (sales and marketing strategies) to (outmaneuver the competition, penetrate new markets and generate record sales in Southeast Asia and China marketplaces) during (the past 5 years with a subsidiary of ABC Engineering). This has been rewarded (consistently with a “Grade 1” ranking in annual performance appraisal). That is what I would like to do for your company.
• I was speaking with (David Wong, Logistics Manager of XYZ Fabrications, about ABC Engineering’s renewed focused on quality assurance), and he suggested that I make you aware of my (18 years experience as a Quality Manager).

(David Wong) suggested that I make you aware of (my 18 years as a Quality Manager).

• (David Wong, Logistics Manager of XYZ Fabrications), suggested that I contact you for advice. Recently I left ABC Engineering as their Quality Manager, and I am seeking a new opportunity. My background includes …
• I noticed in (The Business Times that ABC Consulting will be joint venturing with XYZ Technology to further penetrate the software development market in China. No doubt this venture will also position ABC as a dominant player in systems integration. But, to take full advantage of the opportunity, you’ll likely need a Senior Software Development Manager with experience in … ). My background includes …
• After reviewing your company’s website, I noticed a couple of opportunities in the development area (i.e. Systems Director and Development Project Manager) and contacted (James Lee), a colleague of yours in human resources, about these job openings. He suggested that I send my resume to you for your review. My experience includes …

Central Paragraph

In the second paragraph, you tell the hiring manager why you are writing to the company. Pay attention to the job advertisement (if applicable) and highlight your skills and abilities in the areas that the employer is looking for. Do not be tempted to repeat too much information verbatim from your resume. Pick out two or three points that you feel would be of interest to the employer and, more importantly, encourage the hiring manager to read your resume in detail

Likewise, refer to the below examples to understand the basic idea and adapt the relevant one to fit your situation and reflect your own personality and style.

• I am presenting for your review my skills, achievements, (semiconductor industry expertise, and talent for generating bottom-line results within problem operations) so that we can discuss my joining (ABC Engineering) as a member of your (management team).
• I am bringing to your attention my skills, achievements, (talent for … ), and (ability to see through my commitments in a multi-tasking role meeting tied deadlines under pressurized environment) so that we can discuss my joining … as a value added member of your (process engineering team).
• I do not possess …, but I can offer a thorough knowledge of …, as well as a track record of achieving quantifiable results through honest and creative approaches. My (supervisory, analytical, planning and organizing) skills are strong qualities that I can also bring to the table.

Closing Paragraph

The letter should end with an affirmative statement indicating that you would be interested in discussing how you might be able to contribute to the future success of the employer. This final paragraph is where you tie up your letter and request to be taken forward to the next stage. Examples of closing paragraphs that worked:

• I will work hard to achieve (process engineering objectives) and look forward to discussing my qualification in greater detail and how I can contribute effectively to your position.
• It should be mutually beneficial to meet and assess what and how I can help (accelerate or turn around revenue and profit growth) contributing to your company’s future success.
• I will work hard to achieve bottom-line results and look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your company’s future growth.
• Please call at your convenience if you would like to discuss further how I can contribute to your company’s future success. Thank you for taking the time to review my application.
• I do not expect you to know of any openings, but I would like your advice. In the next few days I will call you to see whether we can have a 15-minute meeting. Enclosed is a copy of my resume, which provides you with more details of my background.

Indicating in your cover letter that you are going to follow-up with a phone call in a few days can sometimes be very effective. Most hiring managers will take a few extra minutes to review your resume so they can respond intelligently when you call. Remember to thank the employer.

• I will contact you (next week) to request an interview. If, in the meantime, you would like to contact me, please call my cell phone anytime at xxxx-xxxx. Thank you for your consideration. (Your consideration is much appreciated.)

2.2 You Asked for It

I have mentioned earlier about the “You Asked For – I Have” cover letter. Example 4 shows a sample. This can be a highly effective approach should you be responding to an advertisement, Internet posting, or other situation where you know the criteria for the position.

Example 4: Sample “You Asked For – I Have” cover letter

Mr. Tan Kok Seng
Block 200, Ang Mo Kio Avenue
#08-1000, Singapore 560200

6 May 2012

Mr. Robert Yap
Managing Director
ABC Engineering Ltd
100 Serangoon Road
Singapore 235688

Dear Mr. Yap

Re: Engineering Manager – The Straits Times, 5 May 2015

In answer to your advertisement in The Straits Times, the following highlights of my background show that I am well qualified for the position.

Requirements		Background
*	Engineering degree with advanced degree preferred	*	BEng (Mechanical Engineering) with MBA.
*	Minimum of 12 years’ experience in electronics or related industry	*	15 years’ experience in electronics, disk drives and semiconductor manufacturing.
*	Managerial experience	*	Managed a staff of 50 and 100 in my last two positions, respectively.
*	Knowledge of computer-based engineering systems	*	Worked extensively with various manufacturing systems including CAD/CAM, FlexiSim, ESDsim, and so on.
*	Bilingual skills	*	Fluent in English, Mandarin and basic Japanese.

The attached resume shows other achievement pertinent to your Engineering Manager job. I would like to discuss my background with you in a personal interview. Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely

KSTan

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

3. ELECTRONIC COVER LETTERS

Even though email was used initially as an informal tool of communications, it is quickly becoming the preferred form of business correspondence. If you are using email for formal correspondence, both within and outside your organization, apply the same standards you would to a letter.

As for the layout of an electronic cover letter, it is not necessary to include your address, date or employer address as that information is being transmitted electronically. Instead, for an email you need a correct email address, the correct name of the person you are sending the email to, and a topic for the subject line (usually a position title or job number). Never email a cover letter to “To Whom It May Concern”. Even though, you can include an electronic signature, it is advisable not to. Example 5 shows a sample electronic cover letter layout, consisting of the following features:

• Email address of the person you are sending the email to
• Subject
• Salutation
• Body
• Closing

Example 5: Sample electronic cover letter

To: robert.yap@abcengrg.com

Subject: Global Business Director – The Straits Time, 5 May 2012

Dear Mr. Yap

As a senior executive with more than 10 years’ experience in Fortune 500 companies, I have applied proven skills in strategic planning, business development and management, marketing, and program management to outmaneuver competition, drive business programs, accelerate growth in client base, and attain solid sales revenue in the healthcare industry across Asia Pacific:

• Nipro: Initiated new business in Asia Pacific growing sales from US$0 to US$30 millions over 3 years – 50% of total group’s revenue in healthcare business globally;
• Beckon Dickenson: Total business growth from US$10 millions to US$50 millions over 5 year.

I am presenting for your review my skills, achievements, global healthcare industry knowledge, experience in sales and marketing of high value products and services within Asia Pacific, and ability to attain set revenue and profitability targets so that we can discuss my joining ABC Engineering as a member of your senior business management team of your healthcare division. It should be mutually beneficial to meet and discuss how I can help accelerate or turn around sales revenue and profit growth contributing to your company’s future success.

I will contact you next week to request an interview. If, in the meantime, you would like to contact me, please call my cell phone anytime at xxxx-xxxx. Thank you.

Yours sincerely

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

4. FOLLOW-UP CALLS

Indicating in your cover letter that you are going to follow-up with a phone call in a few days can sometimes be very effective. Most hiring managers will take a few extra minutes to review your resume so they can respond intelligently when you call.

If you have indicated in your cover letter that you are going to follow-up, be sure to do so, and call at the designated time. If your schedule is such that you might not be able to phone at a specific time, you can still make a follow-up call, just do not indicate in advance that you will do so on a certain day or at a certain time.

Be mindful of the hiring manager’s time and be sure you have a strong benefit to offer. Your call might go as follows:

Hi Robert, my name is Tan Kok Seng. I do not know if my name rings a bell, but I am Regional Business Manager with Nipro’s healthcare business in Asia Pacific. I have submitted my application and candidacy for your Global Business Manager position. I just thought I would follow-up to be sure you received my resume and cover letter I forwarded via email last week, and offer to answer any questions that you might have.

Notice that you did not ask a question, but rather gave an explanation of the purpose of the call, introduced your name and mentioned your current job position and employer.

Alternatively, it may be a good idea to follow up with an email to the recipient after you send your cover letter and resume electronically ensuring that it was received in readable form. Take this as another chance to bring attention to your submission, so make sure you handle this professionally. Even if you have to resend your documents many times because of a glitch on the other end, make sure you do so with grace. Always be patient and courteous to all you come in contact with. Make the email inquiry as brief as possible. Example 6 is a sample of an email inquiry.

Example 6: Sample email enquiry

To: robert.yap@abcengrg.com

Subject: Job Inquiry/Recent Submission for Position of Global Business Director

Dear Mr. Yap

I just sent a cover letter and resume and am verifying whether you have received them in readable form. If your system did not receive a readable copy, please let me know at your earliest convenience and I will resent the document according to your requirements. Thank you.

Yours sincerely

Tan Kok Seng

5. CONCLUSIONS

Simply remember that your cover letter is the packaging for your resume and more importantly you – does it represent your skills and achievements adequately and encourage the employer to invite you forward for interview?

I have presented the basic principles of writing powerful and effective cover letters in this document. Sample cover letters are provided to help you further grasp these principles and jumpstart into writing your own cover letters.

I will end here and leave you with a checklist of do’s and don’ts for cover letters.

• DO use good quality A4 white paper if you are sending your application by mail.
• DO us the same font/typeface as your resume. Font type of Arial or Palatino Linotype, and font size of 10 or 11 are preferred.
• DO review for typographical errors and misused words and ask someone else to double check.
• DO write to a named contact.
• DO keep the letter to one side of an A4 page.
• DO customize every cover letter but DON’T attempt to copy verbatim from your resume.
• DO use business English, e.g. Dear Mr Yap… Yours sincerely.
• DO use clear and official language.
• DON’T be tempted to write in an overly familiar manner.
• DON’T use your current employer’s letterhead.
• DON’T insert your photograph.
• DON’T handwrite your cover letter unless specifically asked to do so.
• DON’T project an overly arrogant or obnoxious tone.

6. SAMPLE COVER LETTERS

I have included more sample cover letters in this section for you to use as a guide and hopefully you will be able to write a good cover letter with phrases and sentences that fit your own experience and background – ensuring that you will “stand out”.

• Account Executive
• Consulting Manager
• Facility Engineer
• Finance Manager
• General Manager
• Human Resource Manager
• Marketing Manager
• Procurement Manager
• Project Manager
• Supply Planning Manager
• Systems Director

Sample Cover Letter: Account Executive

To: robert.yap@abcengrg.com

Subject: Inquiry on Employment Opportunity in China

Dear Mr. Yap

I recently read The Business  Times (2 May 2012) and noticed that you are expanding your business into China. I am sure you will need accomplished account executives to increase your presence in this market, and I believe I am perfectly suited to help you as I have been in China for the last three years with XYZ Technology. I am familiar with your company’s innovative and environmentally sound products.

The enclosed resume outlines my skills, achievements, startup experience, innumerable contacts in the contract manufacturing business, and ability to cultivate key relationships with decision makers. I believe I can contribute to the growth of your business significantly in China. I have also invested a good deal of my time through my community service and avid golf in strengthening my already healthy and profitable business relationships. I am confident this will carry over into your business at ABC Engineering, as well.

I am primarily interested in building your business in China market. I would greatly appreciate a brief introductory meeting. I will call in a few days to arrange one. My background is detailed in the attached resume.

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Sample Cover Letter: Consulting Manager

To: robert.yap@headhunters.com

Subject: Inquiry on Consulting Manager or Project Manager Opportunity

Dear Mr. Yap

How are you doing? We last spoke about six months ago. I trust you still remember me.

I am writing to let you know that I am presently looking out for a new job. My current business division in Hillett-Packerd is in the process of a major downsizing. There is an increasing threat of loosing my job. The present economic situation is also turning gloomy. As such, I have begun searching actively for my next job. I would like to seek your help in my job search.

As you may recall, I have more than 8 years of progressive consulting experience with solid track records in the communication and telecommunication industry with Hillett-Packerd and NAC in the Asia Pacific region. I have helped increase regional services sales numbers significantly by improving the engagements of HP Services with Global NEP customers. I have also implemented operational engagement models from ground up with project management best practices of the Project Management Institute. My two Master’s Degrees in Project Management and Engineering have helped me to advance my career providing me with the necessary educational groundwork to excel in the said industry.

If you are aware of your clients in the communication and telecommunication industry searching for an experienced consulting manager or project manager, I would like the opportunity to present my skills and experience to them. I am looking for these positions in the Asia Pacific region with a comparative starting salary in the range of S$100,000 – S$110,000 per annum. I would also be willing to look at such positions in the information technology industry.

I have enclosed my latest resume for your review. I would like to meet you as soon as your schedule permits to discuss my situation and any openings that you are helping your clients to fill. You can reach me via handphone at xxxx-xxxx.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I am looking forward to speaking with you soon.

Yours sincerely

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Sample Cover Letter: Facility Engineer

Mr. Tan Kok Seng
Block 200, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3
#08-1000, Singapore 560200

6 May 2012

Mr. Robert Yap
Human Resource Manager
ABC Semiconductor Pte Ltd
14 Tampines Industrial Avenue 5
Singapore 528760

Dear Mr. Yap

It gives me immense pleasure to approach your good office with self-introduction that I am holding a diploma in electrical and electronics engineering and have 8 years of facilities/utilities, design, project, erection & commissioning, operation and maintenance experience in the semiconductor and high-tech manufacturing environments with a good track record in my work performance. I am seeking a suitable engineering position in facility/maintenance function of your esteemed organization.

I have enclosed my resume for your perusal and reference. I request you to consider my application and give me an opportunity to serve in your organization.

If I am favored with an assignment, I am sure to come out successful with the desired result to the best satisfaction of my superior upholding the reputation of the organization to which I belong by way of hard work, teamwork and sincerity.

I do not expect you to have a suitable opening now that may fit my background given the present uncertain economic situation, but I would like you to remember me when there is a position in the imminent future that requires immediate hiring.

I am opened to a 20-minute introductory meeting with you. I am reachable anytime xxxx-xxxx. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for reviewing my career background.

Yours sincerely

KSTan

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Sample Cover Letter: Finance Manager

Mr. Tan Kok Seng Seng
Block 200, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3
#08-1000, Singapore 560200

6 May 2012

Mr. Robert Yap
Financial Controller
ABC Semiconductor Pte Ltd
14 Tampines Industrial Avenue 5
Singapore 528760

Dear Mr. Yap

Re: Finance Manager – The Straits Times, 5 May 2012

My academic background and more than twelve progressive years of work experience in financial accounting and reporting aligned extremely well with the requirements of the Finance Manager position you are seeking to fill.

I am presenting for your review my skills, expertise and achievements covering broad spectrum of financial, controlling and accounting activities ensuring the sustenance of the finance and administrative functions of Celltronic. I am presently a Senior Accountant with this German semiconductor manufacturer.

I have worked in various dynamic environments supervising teams of staff, working across functions, involving and contributing to business decisions at management and operational levels. I have participated in numerous improvement and cost reduction initiatives bringing significant overall benefits to the company in good and bad times.

Extremely versatile and self-motivated, I am confident that my skills and high level of commitment can be put to good use in your position. I will work hard to meet bottom-line results and look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your organization’s future business growth.

I will contact you next week to request for an interview. If, in the meantime, you would like to contact me, please call my cell phone anytime xxxx-xxxx.

Your consideration is greatly appreciated.

Yours sincerely

KSTan

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Sample Cover Letter: General Manager

To: robert.yap@abcengrg.com

Subject: Application for Posiiton of General Manager (China) – The JobStreet.com, 5 May 2012

Dear Mr. Yap

As a senior professional with more than 20 years of solid progressive experience, I have applied proven leadership and executive skills in business development, profit and loss management, strategic growth planning and operations management to facilitate foreign and local multinational/regional corporations in their business success in Singapore and China.

I am bringing to your attention that in China, I have started up factory, set business vision for companies and successfully diversified and developed new businesses with world renowned customers like Northern Digital, Samkung, Iomedia, KQSNC and GPSI. I have turned around a loss-making manufacturer in two years with annual revenue exceeding US$50 millions in the third year. I have launched major restructuring and cost reduction initiatives achieving significant positive outcomes. I have also held two engineering patents.

I am confident that my strong business acumen, demonstrated engineering skills, ability to achieve top-line and bottom-line results in operations, and cross-functional and geographical exposure, would value-add and contribute to your company’s business success especially in China.

I would appreciate an opportunity to meet up with you to discuss my qualification in detail and how I can achieve contribute positively to your position. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Sample Cover Letter: Human Resource Manager

To: robert.yap@abcsemicon.com

Subject: Application for Posiiton of Human Resource Manager (China) – The Straits Times, 5 May 2012

Dear Mr. Yap

As a Human Resource Manager of United Semiconductor Corporation, I joined as a member of the pioneer team in 2006 to startup a semiconductor manufacturing plant in Tampines putting in place an effective human capital framework covering recruitment, performance management, training systems, compensation and benefits structure, human resource information system and employee relations and communication; and securing the Initiatives in New Technology grant worth S$37 millions from government authority for manpower development in leading edge technologies. The plant went into production with 650 staff within the first year and grew to 1200 employees by end of 2010.

I am bringing to your attention my skills, achievements, considerable knowledge of managerial principles, techniques and practices, sound track record of successful delivery in a business focused human resource management role, and proven ability to establish professional credibility so that we can discuss my joining ABC Semiconductor as a member of your human resource management team.

A good team player with highly developed influencing skills, I will look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your organization’s future business growth. I will contact you next week to request for an interview. If, in the meantime, you would like to contact me, please call my cell phone anytime at xxxx-xxxx.

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Sample Cover Letter: Marketing Manager

Mr. Tan Kok Seng Seng
Block 200, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3
#08-1000, Singapore 560200

6 May 2012

Mr. Robert Yap
Marketing Director
ABC Software Pte Ltd
14 Tampines Industrial Avenue 5
Singapore 528760

Dear Mr. Yap

Johnson Chan, a committee member of the Singapore Business Federation, suggested that I contact you for advice. Recently, I left XYZ Networks as their Regional Marketing Manager, and I am seeking a new opportunity.

Based on my diverse background and experience with high-end to low-end software and network products designed for many industries, I feel confident that I can make a valuable contribution toward new-product planning, market development and market expansion for a high-tech firm in Southeast Asian region.

My extensive experience over the last 8 years has required the ability not only to develop and market packaged and customized software in Singapore and neighbouring markets but also to provide the support products for end users at all levels. Because of this diversity, I feel able to transfer my skills to marketing many other products.

I do not expect you to know of any openings, but I would like your advice. In the next few days I will call you to see whether we can have a 15-minute meeting. Enclosed is a copy of my resume, which provides you with more details of my background.

Yours sincerely

KSTan

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Sample Cover Letter: Procurement Manager

Mr. Tan Kok Seng Seng
Block 200, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3
#08-1000, Singapore 560200

6 May 2012

Human Resource Manager
ABC Semiconductor Pte Ltd
14 Tampines Industrial Avenue 5
Singapore 528760

Dear Hiring Manager

Re: Procurement Manager – The Straits Times, 5 May 2012

I am presenting for your review my skills, achievements, strong knowledge of the electronics and mechanical industries, and talent for directing and coordinating the full spectrum of purchasing management formulating optimum procurement and sourcing strategies, establishing strategic vendor management, and driving competitive materials pricing and terms so that we can discuss my joining ABC Semiconductor as a member of your dynamic purchasing team.

As a strategic purchasing professional for Samkung Electronics over 8 years, I have helped to maximize profits and reduce costs managing an annual purchased value in excess of US$300 millions, generating savings in material costs hitting US$32 millions in year 2011, and streamlining supply chain processes in logistics and warehouse management.

I am a motivated achiever who has exceeded performance goals consistently. Results achieved have been rewarded with promotions and numerous awards including Southeast Asia Outstanding Achievement Award in 2011 and Best Employee Awards from 2008 to 2010.

I will continue to pursue a results-oriented approach and work hard to achieve excellence in my work performance. It should be mutually beneficial to meet and assess how I can contribute to your company’s future success. I look forward to receiving your call. I can be reachable anytime at xxxx-xxxx.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Yours faithfully

KSTan

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Sample Cover Letter: Project Manager

To: robert.yap@abcengrg.com

Subject: Application for Position of Project Manager – The JobStreet.com, 5 May 2012

Dear Mr. Yap

As a performance-driven Project Manager in Electroglus over 5 years, I have applied proficient skills in project management, people management and communications to drive multiple semiconductor test handler projects simultaneously achieving more than 10 multi-million dollars product transfers from San Jose to Singapore operations, all completed within budgets and ahead of deadlines. I have also led a series of cost reduction and re-engineering initiatives for these products reducing material costs by more than 40%. These contributions have been rewarded with company’s stock and share options for outstanding performance for 4 consecutive years.

As a resourceful Senior Program Controller with Creative Innovation, over 3 years, I have combined production planning, procurement and inventory management skills to optimize operational support and sustenance improving shipment timeliness and reducing materials and product inventory costs substantially.

I am bringing to your attention my skills, achievements, talent for product development and new product introduction, expertise in supply chain management, risk management tools and processes, and proven ability to harness IT systems and get things done with tangible results so that we can discuss my joining ABC Engineering as a member of your Project Management Office.

I will work hard to achieve bottom-line results and look forward to discussing my qualification in detail and how I can contribute to your company’s future success. I will contact you next week to request for an interview. If, in the meantime, you would like to contact me, please call my cell phone anytime at xxxx-xxxx.

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Sample Cover Letter: Supply Planning Manager

Mr. Tan Kok Seng Seng
Block 200, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3
#08-1000, Singapore 560200

6 May 2012

Mr. Robert Yap
Human Resource Manager
ABC Vision Pte Ltd
14 Tampines Industrial Avenue 5
Singapore 528760

Dear Mr. Yap

Re: Supply Planning Manager – The Straits Times, 5 May 2012

I have combined an Accountancy degree with more than 10 years of strong end-to-end global supply chain experience as a Logistics Project Manager, Supply Chain Manager and Materials Manager for world leading companies such as Nakia, Hillett-Packerd and General Electrical. I have helped these companies:

• set up factories inSingaporeand Batam, and established an Asia Procurement Office;
• formulated supply chain strategies, developing new practices and optimizing underlying processes and documents;
• launched varied business re-engineering projects, implemented various new logistics models and managed changes turning around problem functions, realizing cost savings of more than US$3 millions and achieving shorter time-to-market;
• led implementation team for SAP ERP systems in various sites;
• managed multiple product lines transfers from US and Europe toAsia.

I am bringing to your attention my skills, achievements, Asia Pacific exposure, ability to clearly articulate the integration between the financial and operational aspects of businesses, and talent for generating bottom-line results within problem operations so that we can discuss my joining ABC Vision as a member of your supply chain management team.

I will continue to embrace my strong belief in thrust, teamwork and openness to achieve success in my work performance. It should be mutually beneficial to meet and discuss how I can help to achieve supply chain objectives contributing to your company’s future success.

Therefore, I would appreciate if you could kindly consider my application. Should you require further information, I can be contacted on my cell phone at xxxx-xxxx.

Yours sincerely

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.

Sample Cover Letter: Systems Director

To: robert.yap@abcengrg.com

Subject: Systems Director Position

Dear Mr. Yap

After reviewing your company’s website, I noticed a couple of opportunities in the development area (i.e. Systems Director and Development Project Manager) and contacted James Lee, a colleague of yours in human resources, about these job openings. He suggested that I send my resume to you for your review.

I am presenting for your review my experience of more than 10 years of progressive leadership responsibilities in large technology environments.

At ABC Bank, I was actively involved in developing high integrated, worldwide applications that supported all aspects of the business – from sales and marketing through operations and finance. My role progressed from a programmer to analyst, then project leader and finally to project manager.

At EDS Consulting, I continued to focus on development but took on additional organizational responsibilities. Beyond leading teams developing Unix workstation, client/server, and Internet-based applications, I was responsible to three project managers for department planning, finances and special projects, and for department staffing and staff development. In this capacity, I was promoted to Systems Manager.

Beyond these roles and responsibilities, my abilities to work with teams and get things done led to being selected for management teams that drove reengineering and best practices. I have had success with many different types of business unit, and I believe I can bring experience and expertise to your highly regarded organization – I noticed on your website that ABC Engineering was named “one of the 100 Best Places to Work in IT” by ITWorld magazine. I would like to help you strengthen your leadership team at an organization or regional level.

Thank you for reviewing my attached resume. I will contact you next week regarding this opportunity. If, in the meantime, you would like to contact me, please call my cell phone anytime at xxxx-xxxx.

Yours sincerely

Tan Kok Seng

Enc.