AMY LINDGREN If you'll be job hunting soon, write cover letters in advance

Are you going to be looking for a job soon? Perhaps you've received a layoff notice or heard rumblings about a company merger. Or maybe your spouse is being transferred and you'll be job-hunting in a new town.
Besides worrying, what can you do to prepare for a future job search?
In last week's column, we looked at some of the logistics you can set up in anticipation of being unemployed: creating a space at home to work from, safeguarding hours in your schedule for job search tasks, preparing a r & eacute;sum & eacute;.
Now it's time to look at your job search correspondence. If an opportunity came up today, would you be able to send out a letter indicating your interest? If you're a natural writer who enjoys putting things on paper, the answer is probably yes. Clip this column and set it aside to use when that circumstance occurs.
The best way
Everyone else, pay attention. Believe it or not, the best way to write a cover letter is in advance, before you even know what job you're writing it for.
That's because most people tense up when it comes to writing something that really matters to them. The result is a letter that reflects anxiety instead of confidence.
To sound your best in print, use the following advice to prepare template letters for common job search situations.
SITUATION ONE
No job has been advertised, but you would like to work at this company.
Strategy: Write to the person who heads a department you would like to work in.
First paragraph: "I am writing to introduce myself and to inquire about opportunities to work in your department."
Second paragraph: "My background includes ..." (add two to three sentences about your experience).
Third paragraph: "I'd like to talk with you, in person or over the phone, about possible openings in (name the department or company). I'm especially interested in positions as a (job title) or (job title). I look forward to talking with you soon."
SITUATION TWO
No job has been advertised, but a mutual friend has recommended you make contact.
Strategy: Make the contact and offer to meet.
First paragraph: "Annie Jones (the mutual friend) has suggested I contact you. I am a (credential or title) with extensive experience in the (industry) field. Annie said you are always looking for experienced (job title).
Second paragraph: "My background includes ..." (add two to three sentences about your experience).
Third paragraph: "I will be in your area next week. Can we set a time to talk about possible openings in your company? I'll call in a day or two to confirm the arrangements. I look forward to our meeting -- Annie speaks highly of you!"
SITUATION THREE
A job has been advertised.
Strategy: Respond by matching your skills to those requested in the job posting.
First paragraph: "I am writing to respond to the (job title) position advertised in (newspaper) this week."
Second paragraph: "I am a (?) professional with experience in the (?) industry. My strengths include: (bullet list or paragraph noting your skills as requested in the ad)."
Third paragraph: "I would like very much to discuss this position with you.
I will call next Tuesday to arrange a meeting. Thank you for your consideration."
SITUATION FOUR
You have met with an employer and want a second interview.
Strategy: To thank this person for the meeting, and to remind him or her of your skills and availability.
First paragraph: "Just a note to thank you for our meeting yesterday regarding the (job title) position. I especially enjoyed the tour."
Second paragraph: "I would very much like to work with you in this position.
I'm quite interested in the (insert topics here) we discussed, and the challenge of (?). We ran out of time before I could mention my previous experience as (insert relevant skill here)."
Third paragraph: "I'd like to meet again soon to discuss how I might fit in at (company). You have a terrific department, and I'd be proud to be part of it."
You're all set
Now you have four letter templates for your future job search. When you're ready to use them, be sure you have the name of a contact.
Without that name, your letter may not hit home. Worse, you'll have no one to call for a follow-up.
XAmy Lindgren, the owner of a career-consulting firm in St. Paul, Minn., can be reached at alindgrenpioneerpress.com.