[Da_Bian]

A cover letter is basically your introduction to yourself. In it you state how good you are and what you have achieved.

Most companies / employers nowadays, though, prefer short and to the point cover letters. So keep it short and simple. Try to knock 'em on the head in the first four lines to make them think, "Wow this dude rawks."

Write two cover letters, one normal and one totally over the top. You'll notice you'll get more results with the over the top one.

Most of my cover letters here just state which job I want, where I found the ad, where I live, what times I'm available, my resume is attached and you can contact me at any time (between...etc).

Example of a standard letter I do here:
[quote:89b09]Dear Sir / Madam,

I would like to apply for the ______ position in your company, which was advertised in ________. Please consider me and I assure you, you will not be disappointed.

I'm experience in all aspects of ________.

I live in _________, _____.

My resume is attached. Please feel free to contact me for further details.

Yours faithfully,

Shitfor Brains.[/quote:89b09]
The main reason I don't go into detail here (in Taiwan) is because most people can't read English too well, and I'd just end up confusing them. You may require more detail for your letter.

Just remember to sell yourself as much as you can, so they don't throw your resume on the "meh" pile.

Good luck!

p.s. I remember once I found some site that'll automatically write cover letters and resumes for you. Google and you might find it.