Unfinished Work
The following students have work that has not completed:
10:00 – 10:45 am
- Domynik – VJS 16 Personalities Assignment, resume, cover letter & envelope
- Timothy – Cover letter & envelope
- Tate – Cover letter & envelope
- Tristan – Add phone number and skills to resume, cover letter & envelope
- Trent – resume, cover letter & envelope
- Norman – 16 Personalities Quiz, VJS 16 Personalities Assignment, resume, cover letter and envelope
- Stephanie – 16 Personalities Quiz, VJS 16 Personalities Assignment, WorkKeys assignment, resume, cover letter and envelope
- Trevor – 16 Personalities Quiz, VJS 16 Personalities Assignment, resume, cover letter, envelope and WorkKeys tests
2:15 – 3:00 pm
- Conner – WorkKeys assignment (tasks), resume, cover letter and envelope
- Dawson – WorkKeys assignment (tasks), resume (work experiences and references), cover letter (at least 3 sentences in 2nd paragraph), and envelope
- Weston – VJS 16 Personalities Assignment, WorkKeys assignment, resume and envelope
- Braxton – resume (job experiences), and envelope
- Axton – 16 Personalities Quiz, VJS 16 Personalities Assignment, resume (references), cover letter and envelope
- Landon – resume and envelope
- Cole – envelope
Cover Letters
At this point we have researched careers or clusters you may be interested in as well as created a resume and job application.
So at this point we are actually ready to:
- Find one job opening in a career area you may be interested in upon completion of your training.
- Create a cover letter
- Create an envelope
Step 1:
Find a job opening that you may be interested in currently or in the future. You can either print the information and put the printout in your notebook or you may copy and paste the information into a Google Doc that you create in the Google Drive folder I created for you. This step is necessary in case you do not complete the assignment today and need the information next week or in the future.
Step 2:
Write a cover letter in which you are pretending you will use to apply for a job. More information regarding the format of a cover letter is included below.
Step 3:
A professional looking envelope should be used to mail correspondence to a potential employer. Instead of using Google Docs, we will use MS Word for this task. Please ask me for help printing the envelope. You will need your cover letter open before I assist you.
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
Automotive Service Cover letter examples:
- https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/cover-letter-samples/automotive-technician
- https://www.careerbuilder.com/advice/sample-cover-letter-for-automotive-technicians
- https://www.myperfectresume.com/cover-letter/examples/mechanics/automotive-technician
- https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/mechanic-cover-letter
- https://www.greatsampleresume.com/cover-letter/examples/mechanics/automotive-technician
Biomedical Engineer Cover Letter Example
Executive Assistant Cover Letter Example
Photography Cover Letter Example
Physical Therapist Cover Letter Example
Social Media Manager Cover Letter Example
Introduction to Job Applications
If you are a job seeker, you will probably have to fill out one or more application forms. You should know that employers do read the forms, and that the way you prepare the application can make a big difference in getting an interview and being hired for the job.
Be Prepared
Make sure you know the correct names, dates, places and other information you will need. It may be helpful to create a sample application to bring with you when you apply for a job, in case you must fill out an application form on the spot.
Ask If You May Take A Blank Application Home
Filling out the form at home can be easier as you are able to take your time and do a good job. If possible, ask for an extra form, just in case.
Read The Form
Before you start writing, look for instructions that say “use pen only” or that tells you to list information in a certain order.
Online Applications
When completing an online application, be sure to check to see if the application can be saved and completed at a later time or if you have to complete the application within one sitting (such as Great Salt Plains Health requires).
Be Neat
Type the information if possible. If typing the information is not possible, be sure to use a black pen.
Answer All Questions Completely And Correctly
Know proper dates, addresses and how to spell names and places. Don’t make up answers. Some companies will allow you to put “see attached resume” on the application if you are also able to send or attach a resume. Do not put “see attached resume” just because you don’t want to complete the form! Answer the questions on the form. If a question does not pertain to you it is acceptable to put “Not Applicable” or “N/A” but do not leave any questions unanswered. Be sure to read the job description and application process and complete all required elements. Be HONEST with all answers on the application!
Be Positive
List what you have been doing, not what you haven’t done. For example, if you have been unemployed for a period of time, show the work you have been busy with, such as going to school, managing a household or doing carpentry on your home. If paid experience is not specified, list any volunteer jobs or activities that can show your skill and ability to work.
Be Clear
Know the position title you are applying for and the right salary range. You may have to do some research to find this information. Also, most application forms ask when you will be available to start work. Be prepared to answer this question. If you have a specific required salary range be sure to include it. “Negotiable” is an acceptable answer if that is the case.
Ask References Beforehand
List people whom you have checked with and who have agreed to give a reference. There are two kinds of references, 1) Character or Friend, 2) Employer. Do not use relatives as references.
Proofread The Application When You Are Finished
Make sure you correct any errors or omissions. Check your spelling. Then, hand it in or mail it. If you are mailing the form, it is a good idea for you to make a copy for yourself and to note the date you sent the application. Also, when mailing an application, be sure to send a cover letter re-stating your interest and qualifications.
Additional Tips
Do NOT ask what the salary is when picking up or asking for an application!! That is a total turn off for some employers. That will eventually be discussed in the interview process. If you are going in person to inquire about an application, be sure to dress appropriately! Do not show up in casual wear because you never know if they will just immediately call you in to visit about the position! This is your first chance to make a first impression!
Job Application Tips & Tricks
The Balance Careers – Job Application Tips for Teenagers
LiveCareer.com – A Job Seeker’s Guide to Successfully Completing Job Applications
Sample Job Application – Auto Tech
Many companies require the applicant to complete a job application in order to be considered as a candidate for that job. Applications may need to be completed online or downloaded then completed using software such as MS Word or Adobe Acrobat. Some applications can be sent electronically while other companies prefer a printed copy. The Best Way to Write a Resume by Job Genius video provides tips for completing a job application. Download and print the Osborns Automotive Application – Technician (or ask Mrs. Frascht for a copy) and then complete application.
If you need ideas for five words that may describe you, check out the following websites: