Introduction to Cover Letters
Cover letters are important because they tell employers the type of position you’re seeking and exactly how you’re qualified for it. Your cover letter can also explain things that your resume can’t.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that, along with your resume, is sent with your job application. A cover letter is your chance to tell a potential employer why you’re the perfect person for the position and how your skills and expertise can add value to the company. The letter should be professional but personable, and serve as a sort of introduction.
A lot of job seekers today wonder if a cover letter is still appropriate to send with your resume—and the answer is yes! Even if an employer doesn’t ask for a cover letter, it couldn’t hurt to send one. In fact, it can help you get someone’s attention in a different way, and it can be a great way to display your enthusiasm for the job and company.
Basic Elements of a Cover Letter
The following should be included in the cover letter:
- Your name and address preferably in the header area of letterhead that resembles or matches your resume.
- Current date.
- Name and address of the person/company you are sending the letter to.
- Greeting – Address your cover letter to the proper person.
- Opening – Write a personable, inviting opening paragraph that notes which position you are applying for and how you learned of the job opening.
- Achievements and Skills – Highlight your past achievements as they relate to the job you’re applying for. Emphasize additional relevant skills and certifications which show you meet the job requirements.
- Closing: Briefly recap your strengths as a candidate, why you want to work for the organization, a call for action or next steps, and your contact information.
Template for writing your cover letters:
Use the same letterhead format you did for your resume if it is attractive which includes the following in a header section of a Microsoft Word document: Your Name, Street Address, City, State Zip Code, Phone Number, Email address. You will NOT type this information as it appears here with just commas separating each element of the header.
Date
Individual’s Name (at the business you are applying to), Job Title (that individual’s job title within the business)
Name of Organization or Company (company where you are applying)
Street Address
City, State Zip Code
Dear Mr./Ms. WhoEver Is Listed Above (if no name is provided please ask me for help):
First Paragraph: State the reason for writing. Name the specific position or type of work for which you’re applying. Mention how you learned of the opening.
Second Paragraph: Explain why you’re interested in working for this employer and specify how you fit this position. Don’t repeat the information on your resume. Include something special or unique about yourself that will benefit the employer. Remember, the reader will consider this an example of your writing skills.
Third Paragraph: Mention that your resume is enclosed and indicate your desire to meet with the employer. You may want to suggest alternate dates and times, or simply advise them of your flexibility to meet. Include day and evening contact information. Include a statement or question that will encourage the reader to respond. Be sure to communicate your plan to follow up. You might state that you’ll be in the area on a certain date and would like to set up a meeting, or you’ll call on a certain date to set up a meeting. Finally, thank the employer for his/her time.
Sincerely,
(Your Signature in blue or black ink)
Your name
Enclosure
Tips and Tricks for Cover Letters
Check out the following resources on how to write a cover letter:
- CareerOneStop.com – Cover Letters
- Glassdoor.com – How to Write a Cover Letter
- Monster.com – Cover Letter Tips
- Balance.com – How to Start a Cover Letter
Cover Letter Examples
Check out the following examples of how to write a cover letter:
- Monster.com – Cover Letter Examples by Industry
- Monster.com – Cover Letter Samples
- TheBalanceCareers.com – Cover Letter Sample for a Resume
- TheBalanceCareers.com – Sample Email Cover Letter Message
Cover Letter Assignment
Search for a job opening that resembles something you may want to pursue once you have completed your career training. Create a PDF file (ask me how) that has the job opening and job description. Drag that PDF file into the file folder I created for you on the Shared Google Drive.
Create a letterhead using Microsoft Word that will be used in writing your cover letters. You will need to provide your contact information within the letterhead. Be creative but professional. Use the header and footer sections of the Microsoft Word document. After creating the letterhead be sure to save it and upload a copy to the Shared Google drive into the folder I created for you.
Create a cover letter for the job opening that you have found for an acceptable career position of your choice.
Be sure to print and then upload your cover letter to the Shared folder on the Google Drive.
Job Opening Examples
ASE Automotive Technician – CarMax, Oklahoma City
Care Max, 121 E Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73131
CarMax, the way your career should be! Tune up your skills in vehicle repair and build a great career. If you want to learn how to repair and recondition vehicles to the highest standards, CarMax is the place to be. You will use your skills to get vehicles ready for our customers, ensuring they are safe and reliable. The Automotive Apprentice will learn to repair engines, adjust steering and suspension, fix heating and air conditioning and more. In return, you will also enjoy a generous range of company benefits including paid vacation, medical and retirement plans, and vehicle purchase discounts.
The Mechanical Associate I will be responsible for performing general vehicle inspections and entry level repairs for the mechanical reconditioning process per CarMax Quality Standards. These duties include, but are not limited to, inspection of tires, brakes, batteries, and fluids, oil changes, replacement of air filters, and identification of frame, rust and flood damage. Must be able to perform multiple duties in a fast paced environment, provide outstanding customer service, and follow workplace cleanliness and organization standards.
ASE Automotive Technicians will ensure every vehicle is one our customers can rely on and every vehicle that passes through a CarMax store is repaired and reconditioned to CarMax’s high standards. Automotive Technicians use their skills to diagnose, fix and prepare vehicles for our customers. Specializing in an area such as engines, steering and suspension, heating and air conditioning or brakes, you will be part of a skilled team that brings out the best in every vehicle. And we’ll help bring out the best in you too, with a clean, modern, climate-controlled environment. You will also enjoy a generous range of company benefits including paid vacation, medical and retirement plans, and vehicle purchase discounts.
What you will do – Essential responsibilities • Diagnose and repair vehicles to ensure customers can drive away feeling safe and at ease • Work as part of a team to solve technical problems quickly and effectively • Enhance your skills as an automotive mechanic across a wide range of domestic and foreign vehicles • Follow and promote our high standards of safety, cleanliness and organization.
We look after you the way you look after our cars CarMax technicians work in a fast-paced environment where motivation is key. Working together with other technicians you will solve problems, meet deadlines, and deliver great results. CarMax wants you to produce your best work, so we support our associates by providing the equipment you need to get the job done and the feedback that helps you get better every day. At CarMax, a good technician is more than a technical expert, they’re a great communicator too.
Qualifications and requirements • Experience and ASE accreditation in one or more of the following: engine repair, steering and suspension, breaks, heating and air conditioning (including refrigerants and recycling) • Knowledge of health and safety compliance • Manual dexterity and physical stamina, lift heavy objects, and walk and stand for extended periods of time • Manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment • Good communication skills and attention to detail • Possession of valid driver’s license
About CarMax – CarMax disrupted the auto industry by delivering the honest, transparent and high-integrity experience customers want and deserve. This innovative thinking around the way cars are bought and sold has helped us become the nation’s largest retailer of used cars, with over 200 locations nationwide. Our amazing team of more than 25,000 associates work together to deliver iconic customer experiences. Along the way, we help every associate grow their career and achieve their best, at work and in their community. We are recognized for our commitment to training and diversity and are one of the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For. CarMax is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Upon an applicant’s request, CarMax will consider reasonable accommodation to complete the CarMax Job Application