Throw away your form letter. These days, getting your cover letter noticed means getting creative.

A good cover letter can be the difference between getting and not getting a job.

Consider these tips from hiring managers and writing coaches.

Start strong

News reporters know most people only read three paragraphs, so they lead with the most important information. You should, too. Start with a relevant professional accomplishment. The accomplishment should be aligned with at least one of the qualifications the employer seeks. This encourages the reader to continue reading and automatically positions you as an expert.

Be focused

Talk about how the job fits your goals in the interview. Use the cover letter to show how you can help the employer meet his or her goals. Make sure your cover letter shows that:

a) You’ve looked at the company website and know what it does

b) You can help cut costs or increase profits

c) You have something that makes you special and will make the company special.

An example

The description of your company’s range of services indicates that you place a high value on quick response to clients but with particular attention to details. In my position with XYZ company, I was employee of the month six times based on my fast, accurate service record. I look forward to improving on that record with a company that values my skills in this area.

Prepare ‘charticles’

Short charts in magazines attract more eyes than long articles.

In one column, list the attributes the employer needs. In the next, show how you meet them. For instance, if it asks for four years of experience, list that you have six. If it asks for a self-starter, list your experience of starting and leading a team and how it increased profits.

Be precise

If you’re a hiring manager and you’re going through résumés for eight hours a day, cover letters better be real short. No one wants to read a long one.

Keep it to less than one page with lots of white space and in 12-point type. If it’s longer, ask yourself if each sentence meets the qualifications in the first section. If not, cut it.