Do you remember all you've learned about writing a cover letter? You may feel like this is a difficult task, but it does get easier with practice. And just as with putting together your resume, common sense is always the most helpful tool at your disposal. You want to present yourself clearly and professionally, and you want to keep your letter concise. Nothing will turn off a prospective employer more quickly than a multiple-page rambling cover letter. The following are some other helpful tips to keep in mind when writing a cover letter:

• State the job you are applying for in the first paragraph of your cover letter.

• Address your letter to a specific person if at all possible.

• Do not send the same letter to every employer.

• Showcase your relevant attributes.

• Ask for what you want — an interview, for example.

• Tell the recipient when and how you will follow up.

• Proofread your cover letter to make sure there are no spelling or grammatical errors or typos.

If nothing else, your cover letter should clearly state your intent and the reason for your interest in the job. If the person reading your letter does not get a sense of why you want the job you're applying for, or why she should hire you to do that job, that letter — and your chances — will probably end up in the trash.