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.
Examples of Job Openings
Paint and Body Combo Technician – Bob Moore Auto Group
At Bob Moore, we strive to make every customer a customer for life. Happy employees make happy customers, and we reward individuals who are ready to work hard and stay motivated. Every employee at Bob Moore is absolutely critical to its success. Our promise is to keep delivering the same award winning service and value that our community has come to expect from our dealerships through the years.
What We Offer • Medical and Dental • 401K Plan • Paid time off and vacation • Growth opportunities • Paid Training • Employee vehicle purchase plans • Family owned and operated • Long term job security • Health and wellness • Flexible work schedule • Discounts on products and services Responsibilities • Repair and replace parts • Document extra damage • Frame straightening • Log materials used • Communicate with office in regards to the status of repairs • Must follow company safety policies and procedures and immediately report any and all accidents to a manager/superivsor
Minimum Requirements • Valid driver’s license • Completion of Vocational Program or five years auto repair experience • High School Education or equivalent
Body Repair Technician – Bill Knight Automotive
Bill Knight Collision Repair in Stillwater, OK is looking for an experienced Body Repair Technician who takes pride in their work.
REQUIREMENTS: • Working knowledge and experience in auto body repair, metal work, and frame straightening for all makes and models. • I-CAR certifications are preferred. Additional training will be available during employment, which will provide the opportunity for growth in the company. • Must be willing to submit to a drug screen & background check
BENEFITS: • Competitive pay plan • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life insurance • Paid holidays & vacation time
EEO employer and drug free workplace. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of background check and drug screen. Must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid driver’s license.
Auto Body Paint Technician – Dent Wizard
Make every paint job a masterpiece. Be a wizard. As a Paint Tech with Dent Wizard, you’ll have unlimited earning potential and the ability to control your day as you deliver fast, flawless paint jobs that dazzle. We’re hiring right now for a Paint Technician in Oklahoma, OK area. Utilizing specific surface preparation, the latest spray equipment and proven painting techniques, you will inspect, prepare, blend and finish vehicle surfaces. Working at locations that may include automotive dealerships, rental agencies and auto auctions, you’ll do everything from simple touch-ups to repairing paint damage.
The Dent Wizard Difference • Unlimited, uncapped earning potential based on commission: the harder you work, the more you can make • Excellent benefits, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid vacation and more • Outstanding perks, including mobile phone, company vehicle, gas card and more • We will fully equip you with the most current tools and supplies • Independence to manage your day; no micromanagement • Great work/life balance that puts you in charge of your schedule • On-the-job training in our computerized color matching systems and painting techniques from experienced painters • Certifications and advanced training with organizations like PPG and BASF • Defined career path with five levels from Senior Technician to World-Class Technician, each with bonuses, perks and recognition
What You Need to Succeed • 1-2 years of auto painting experience • Vision abilities including close, distance and color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus • Great communication skills to interact with customers and build accounts • Manual dexterity for repetitive-motion tasks • Strong work ethic, self-motivation and the ability to work independently • Toughness and grit to work outside in all kinds of weather • Physical stamina to kneel, bend and squat, as well as lift up to 45 pounds • Valid driver’s license and good driving record
About Dent Wizard Dent Wizard is the nation’s undisputed leader in automotive reconditioning services and vehicle protection products – and our success is the result of the great people who serve our customers. We’re stable, growing and have a strong business model, with opportunities in 43 states, 2.5 million vehicles repaired every year and more than 3,000 highly skilled employees. Help us reach new heights and receive the respect, rewards and recognition you deserve.