How to Write Upwork Cover Letter

Source: upwork.com

The Basics

Every cover letter should be unique and tailored to the job you're applying for. We recommend that you write every cover letter from scratch, targeting the specific needs of that particular job. You cannot edit your cover letter once you submit it, so take the time to check for spelling and grammar mistakes before you apply.

The Background

Before you begin writing your cover letter:

• The cover letter entry field is a basic plain text editor. That means you cannot format your text with things like bold, italic, headings, and hyperlinks. 
• The form does not accept any formatting tags like HTML, BBCode, or Wiki. 
• oDesk will automatically turn any URLs you include into clickable links. 
• There is no spell checker in the cover letter form from oDesk, although it may be available through your browser.

While you’re writing your cover letter:

• Say hello in a friendly way. If you know the client's name,
  then use it. If you don't know the client’s name, a simple "Hello" will do. Avoid "To Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Sir." Neither salutations add warmth or value and may even be considered offensive or "spammy."
• Make your first sentence compelling. Your introduction provides a first impression and summary of your qualifications for the job. Your first line is visible to all potential clients who scan the candidate list.
• Include a clear, concise, and brief description of your related skills and experience.
• Be honest.
• Describe why you feel that you are the best person for the job. Be specific about who and what you can do. Crystallize your ideas in simple, declarative sentences.
• State your availability and how many hours you can realistically work each week separately from your job skills and professional experience. 
• Let the client know when they can contact you, your time zone, and what venues the clients can use to talk to you (such as chat, phone, or email), should they want to move on to the invitation to interview.
• Be sure to read the job description completely, in case the client requests specific information or other things. Make sure you address everything the client specifically asks for.
• Some clients will include a math problem, a phrase to repeat, or a special keyword at the end of the description to "test" candidates to be certain that they read the job carefully and with great attention to detail.
• Summarize what you offer to prospective clients. Close your cover letter by repeating your interest in their job and your understanding of the client's needs.
• Check your word count. Your cover letter should be about 200 to 250 words.

Check out our Freelancer Manual for a example cover letter and more advice.

After you write your cover letter but before you send it, ask yourself the following questions:

• Have you been selective in your job search? Success comes to those who only apply for jobs that "fit." If a job specifies Preferred Qualifications and you do not meet those qualifications, your time is better spent applying to jobs you're more qualified for.
• What is your job application limit? oDesk sets a limit or quota on the number of job applications you can submit. However, it is not a requirement you must fulfill. You can increase your job application quota by successfully completing the oDesk Readiness Test, verifying your identity, and then taking additional free skills tests.

The Details

Of course, you can compose, edit, and revise your cover letter within the text entry box on the job application page, but we recommend you do the following instead:

1. Write your cover letter in the word processor of your choice, spell check, and revise it there. 
2. Once you have your cover letter ready, copy and paste it into the cover letter text entry field on the Apply to Job page. 
3. Read through your cover letter one more time to make sure you didn’t miss anything you should correct. Pay attention to the formatting as well to ensure that it’s still okay. 
4. If you have difficulty editing your own work, ask a friend to check it before you submit your application.