Introduction to Cover Letters<\/span><\/h3>\nCover letters\u00a0are\u00a0important\u00a0because they tell employers the type of position you’re seeking and exactly how you’re qualified for it. Your\u00a0cover letter\u00a0can also explain things that your resume can’t.<\/p>\n
What is a cover letter?<\/strong><\/p>\nA cover letter is a one-page document that, along with\u00a0your resume, is sent with your job application. A cover letter is your chance to tell a potential employer why you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n
A lot of job seekers today wonder if a cover letter is still appropriate to send with your resume\u2014and the answer is yes! Even if an employer doesn\u2019t ask for a cover letter, it couldn\u2019t hurt to send one. In fact, it\u00a0can 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.<\/p>\n
Basic Elements of a Cover Letter<\/strong><\/p>\nThe following should be included in the cover letter:<\/p>\n
\n- Your name and address preferably in the header area of letterhead that resembles or matches your resume.<\/li>\n
- Current date.<\/li>\n
- Name and address of the person\/company you are sending the letter to.<\/li>\n
- Greeting \u2013\u00a0<\/strong>Address your cover letter to the proper person.<\/li>\n
- Opening \u2013\u00a0<\/strong>Write a personable, inviting opening paragraph that notes which position you are applying for and how you learned of the job opening.<\/li>\n
- Achievements and Skills \u2013\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>Highlight your past achievements as they relate to the job you\u2019re applying for.\u00a0Emphasize\u00a0additional relevant skills and certifications which show you meet the job requirements.<\/li>\n
- Closing:\u00a0<\/strong>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.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Template for writing your cover letters:<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\nUse 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:\u00a0 Your Name, Street Address, City, State Zip Code, Phone Number, Email address.\u00a0 You will NOT type this information as it appears here with just commas separating each element of the header.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Date<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Individual\u2019s Name (at the business you are applying to), Job Title (that individual\u2019s job title within the business)
\nName of Organization or Company (company where you are applying)
\nStreet Address
\nCity, State Zip Code<\/p>\n
Dear Mr.\/Ms. WhoEver Is Listed Above (if no name is provided please ask me for help):<\/p>\n
First Paragraph: State the reason for writing. Name the specific position or type of work for which you\u2019re applying. Mention how you learned of the opening.<\/p>\n
Second Paragraph: Explain why you\u2019re interested in working for this employer and specify how you fit this position. Don\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n
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\u2019ll be in the area on a certain date and would like to set up a meeting, or you\u2019ll call on a certain date to set up a meeting. Finally, thank the employer for his\/her time.<\/p>\n
Sincerely,<\/p>\n
(Your Signature in blue or black ink)<\/p>\n
Your name<\/p>\n
Enclosure<\/p>\n
Tips and Tricks for Cover Letters<\/h3>\n
Check out the following resources on how to write a cover letter:<\/p>\n
\n- CareerOneStop.com – Cover Letters<\/a><\/li>\n
- Glassdoor.com – How to Write a Cover Letter<\/a><\/li>\n
- Monster.com – Cover Letter Tips<\/a><\/li>\n
- Balance.com – How to Start a Cover Letter<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cover Letter Examples<\/h3>\n
Check out the following examples of how to write a cover letter:<\/p>\n
A cover letter is a one-page document that, along with\u00a0your resume, is sent with your job application. A cover letter is your chance to tell a potential employer why you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n
A lot of job seekers today wonder if a cover letter is still appropriate to send with your resume\u2014and the answer is yes! Even if an employer doesn\u2019t ask for a cover letter, it couldn\u2019t hurt to send one. In fact, it\u00a0can 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.<\/p>\n
Basic Elements of a Cover Letter<\/strong><\/p>\n The following should be included in the cover letter:<\/p>\n Template for writing your cover letters:<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n 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:\u00a0 Your Name, Street Address, City, State Zip Code, Phone Number, Email address.\u00a0 You will NOT type this information as it appears here with just commas separating each element of the header.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Date<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Individual\u2019s Name (at the business you are applying to), Job Title (that individual\u2019s job title within the business) Dear Mr.\/Ms. WhoEver Is Listed Above (if no name is provided please ask me for help):<\/p>\n First Paragraph: State the reason for writing. Name the specific position or type of work for which you\u2019re applying. Mention how you learned of the opening.<\/p>\n Second Paragraph: Explain why you\u2019re interested in working for this employer and specify how you fit this position. Don\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n 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\u2019ll be in the area on a certain date and would like to set up a meeting, or you\u2019ll call on a certain date to set up a meeting. Finally, thank the employer for his\/her time.<\/p>\n Sincerely,<\/p>\n (Your Signature in blue or black ink)<\/p>\n Your name<\/p>\n Enclosure<\/p>\n Check out the following resources on how to write a cover letter:<\/p>\n Check out the following examples of how to write a cover letter:<\/p>\n\n
\nName of Organization or Company (company where you are applying)
\nStreet Address
\nCity, State Zip Code<\/p>\nTips and Tricks for Cover Letters<\/h3>\n
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Cover Letter Examples<\/h3>\n