COVER LETTERS ‘The cover letter provides you with an opportunity to introduce yourself and state your objective, personalize your resume, and highlight information that addresses the needs and interests ofthe employer. Bear in mind that letters you write nat only convey your interest and qualifications, but also give the employer an opportunity to observe your attentiveness to deta, spling, grammar, andthe overall quality of your written communication Flaws in your letters will often be interpreted as flaws in your qualifications. Address Cay, ST Zip Code + Resumes are only as good asthe Dae letter accompanying them. So imako sure thatyou spend some Name time on your letter and diectitto Company/Organization Name {he aproprae person, ‘nase + What you wnt and how you write City, ST Zip Code ‘tel potential employers a great deal abou your professionalism, Dear Mr/Ms, Last Name: competence, and personaly. Opening Paragraph: + Inajob search aimed at busi- What is your intent in writing ths letter? What position are you ‘ss and professional crclos, applying fr and how did you learn abou i? ‘roper procedures and commu- Brefly introduce yourselt, your major, and the degree anticipated ication etiquette are important. you ae aware ofa specilc opening, elerto:t L'youseenot | 4 cqyerletter should entice an wate of specific position, state your area of interest. This snptyorte nantto take seton paragraph can also be usd io refer to the individual wiko arnpioy to went to take Fecommended that you contact the organization, ot ober factors yo that prompted you to write If possible, convey why you are persuade the emplayer to invite interested in the exgenization and anything you know about theic | YOU for ajob interview roguet or service. Second Paragraph: What are your qualifications? Why do you want to work for this organization? What would you enjoy doing for them? Sell yourself and be brief. Whet the employer's appetite xo that he/she will want 0 read ‘your resume and schedule an interview. Describe highlights from your background that would be of greslest interest to the organization. Focus on sas, activities, accomplishments, and past experience you can contribute to the organization and its work. If possible, demonstrate that you know something about the organization and industry/ield. Use action vers tat describe relevant skills and expertise you can contribute, Mention specific knowledge you may have such as computer applications, foreign languages, lb techniques, writing and editing capabilites. ‘You axe attempting to exeace a match at “notion af Hit" berween the employers hing needs aad yout interests, experience, and sil ‘Third Paragraph: What is your plan of action? Do you want to follow up with a phone cal or do you want them fo contact ‘you? Close your letter by staing that you would like to discuss employment opportunities or othe information ‘with the individual and that you will call o follow up on yout letter. Tais demonsrates your initiative and follow-through and will help you maintain some control of your efforts. ry 2 Fr} = Ln} | = & PS 3 Q ra Fy ba 5 2 FA 4 Other point that can be made inthe last paragraph ‘Express your willingness to provide additional information + State a specific lime when you will follow up by phone or email + Let them know if and when you are going to vist their area + Thank the person receiving Your letter for their time and interest Most importanly, emerber to address the cover lete to a person. Ifyou do not have a name, eal the ‘department or hurman resources to find out to whom your letter should be addressed. As a last resort, address your letter the personnel manager, hiring manager, or recruiting represenaliv. Sincerely, ‘Your Firsi Name and Last Name 46 Stanford Caroor Contor