How do I Write a Sales Cover Letter?

A well-written sales cover letter will help you stand out above other job candidates and give you plenty to talk about during a job interview. Your sales cover letter will be your first official sale for the employer, as you will need to sell yourself effectively to get the job. Keep your cover letter concise and to the point; avoid writing too much in your letter, and keep it to about two or three brief paragraphs. Make sure you proofread your letter very carefully before sending it, and be sure to print it on quality paper with quality ink, if you are sending a hard copy.

Start your sales cover letter with a greeting, and if possible, use a specific person's name rather than "To Whom It May Concern." This shows the employer that you have taken the extra step to make the communication personal. In the first paragraph, be sure to mention why you are interested in the position and what you have to offer the company. If you know anyone within the company who has referred you to the position, you may want to mention their name in the first paragraph, assuming you have obtained that person's permission to cite them.

Your second paragraph of the sales cover letter should focus on the skill or experience you feel is most relevant to the position being advertised. The best way to determine which of your sales skills or experiences are most relevant is to read the job description carefully and decide what the employers are looking for in a strong job candidate. Do not be afraid to cite these descriptions directly, and give brief examples of how your skills and experiences will help the company meet its goals. You may want to cite your sales figures and successes from past jobs, but remember, too much information in a sales cover letter is not always advantageous.

Your resumé will be a detailed document, so your cover letter can be a little more general. The items you mention in your sales cover letter can be brief descriptions because, in theory, you will be able to expound on those skills and experiences during the interview. Be brief and be firm; use language that asserts your confidence. Instead of using phrases such as "I think" or "I believe," use firmer statements such as "I will make a great addition to your team because..." Employers are looking for confident candidates who have the best interest of the company in mind.