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