Creating Customized Cover Messages Make sure you include a customized cover message when applying for a position. A cover message should introduce your résumé, highlight your strengths in terms of benefits to the reader, and request an interview. Follow your judgment when deciding whether to write a brief or long cover message. Your message should include an opening that introduces your message and identifies the position, a body that sells you as a candidate and focuses on the employer’s needs, and a closing that requests an interview and motivates action. Which option is the best opening for a cover message for a solicited job?

a. Dan Brown, a member of your marketing team, told me that FedMax is seeking an experienced market researcher to work on a new product campaign.

b. Enclosed is a summary of my qualifications that demonstrates my readiness for this position.

c. An individual from your company told me that FedMax is seeking an experienced employee to work on a new product campaign.

d. I’ve enclosed a summary of my qualifications that demonstrates a readiness for this position.

e. Dan Brown told me that you guys are seeking a market researcher to do some work on a marketing campaign.

f. I’ve enclosed a summary of my qualifications for you.