COVER LETTERS

You've completed your resume. The next step is to develop a cover letter. Even an outstanding resume needs a bodyguard. The cover letter is a business letter and at a minimum is used to transmit your resume to a prospective employer. More importantly, a cover letter is a job search and networking tool. It gives you the opportunity to introduce yourself to the employer, express your interest in a position, offer the employer insight into you personality through your writing style, and impress the employer with your communication skills

Model of a Cover Letter

Your address
City, State, Zip
Date

Name of Contact Person
Title
Organization
Street address
City, State Zip

Dear (contact person),

Opening Paragraph: Why writing? Capture interest!

Strong opening sentences to make the reader want to continue reading.
Name the job for which you are applying. Tell how you learned about it.
Mention the name of a person (if any) who referred you to the organization.
Perhaps pose a question that zeros in on a high-need area for the employer.

Body Paragraph: Critical content section. Convince the reader of your skills.

Acknowledge the skills required by the open position.
State the skills/strengths you will bring to the job and that parallels those needed to fill the position.
Give examples of skill, achievements-and how they will transfer to the job.
Comment on your knowledge of the company (their products, services, or special projects) and why you are interested in working for them.

Closing Paragraph: Ask for interview - identify next step!

Refer to enclosed resume.
Assert yourself by telling the contact person that you will call on a designated date. Alternatively, state that you are available for a personal interview at her/his convenience.
Make it easy for the person to contact you: list your phone number and times you can be reached. Even if it is on the resume, list it here again!

Sincerely,

(Sign your name)
Your Name Typed

Enclosure: Resume

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The references listed below are resources used to prepare the cover letter:

References:
Krannich, R&C (1999) Dynamite Resumes, 4th Ed. IMPACT PUBLICATIONS, Mannassa Park, VA
Camenson, B (1997) Great Jobs for liberal arts majors. Lincolnwood, IL; VGM Career Horizons
Jackson, T (1990) The Perfect Resume. New York, NY: Doubleday.
Resume preparation (1998). Gainesville, Florida: the Career Resource Center

Question? E-Mail Career Services at: Brileyt@lakecitycc.edu