Steps to Writing a Cover Letter

Steps to Writing a Cover Letter

While a resume serves as a public notice about yourself, concisely outlining your knowledge, skills, experiences and accomplishments, the cover letter allows you to tailor your application to each specific job. Cover letters allow you to emphasize your most relevant professional abilities and also display your written communication skills. Your cover letter and resume should typically provide all the information for prospective employers to decide whether you will move on to the next and most impressionable phase in the application process: the interview.

Audience

Cover letters should be tailored to each company of interest. Before you begin your cover letter it is important to know the specific person who will be receiving your application packet. Through networking, learn who the hiring manager is and address the cover letter to him/her.

Content

The letter should state the position for which you are applying; be sure to include specific references demonstrating your knowledge of the industry and the company. Indicate your specific qualifications for the position.

• Introductory paragraph introducing yourself and your purpose
• Do not start with "My name is..."
• Body of document should include references to specific examples of qualifications
• Final paragraph should express appreciation for consideration
• Ask for specific action if possible
• Indicate how you will follow up about the position

 Format

A cover letter should be in paragraph form and it must be easy to read. Keep it simple and concise.

• One page maximum; generally three to four paragraphs
• Single-spaced
• Block formal letter format
• Ten-point font minimum; Times New Roman or Arial preferred
• Even margins; minimum of one inch around
• Well-balanced use of white space
• Clean grammar and spelling
• Avoid the use of acronyms that may seem vague
• Avoid the use of informal contractions (i.e. don't, won't, it's)
• Include return address, date and recipient address

Cover Letter Resources:

http://www.Careerbuilder.com

http://www.resume-resource.com

http://www.rileyguide.com/letters.html

http://jobsearch.about.com/od/coverletters/

http://www.wetfeet.com

http://www.Hotjobs.com

http://www.quintcareers.com/covres.html

http://www.jobstar.org/tools/resume/index.cfm

Examples of Cover Letters

Sample Cover Letter - Full Time Job

This section should be one- to two-inch margin from the top.

• Your Present Address
• City, State, and Zip Code
• Telephone Number
• E-mail Address
• Date 

Person's Name

Title

Organization Name

Street Address

City, State and Zip Code (use the same address that will be on the envelope)

Dear Ms. / Mr. (Last Name): (always include the individual's name to whom the letter is addressed)

Opening Paragraph should include:

 Your reason for writing

• The name of the position, field or type of work in which you are interested
• Where you received notice of the need for the position for which you are applying
• This is an ideal place to catch the reader's attention. Mention why you are interested in the organization, how you found out about the organization and confidently state that you are the ideal candidate 

Middle Paragraph(s) should include:

• Why you are interested in your desired career
• Qualifications related to the position or field
• Why you want to pursue employment with this particular employer
• Make reference to your resume, but do not simply repeat information; fill in between-the-lines to help the reader better understand your skills and abilities
• Be specific, but concise; the cover letter should never be longer than one page

Closing Paragraph should include:

• References if requested in the initial advertisement
• An interview request and a statement that you will follow up in ten business days to schedule one
• A request for any further application materials in a clear and understandable manner
• Appreciation to the reader for their time and consideration

Sincerely,

Your Signature

Your Typewritten Name (you should leave 4 spaces between your closing and your typewritten name)

Enclosure (enclosures include those materials referenced in the body of the letter)