The Cover Letter

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A cover letter is a short introduction letter that accompanies your resume. The cover letter should persuade the employer to read your resume. It is especially important to use a cover letter when mailing a resume to an employer.

 

Suggested cover letter layout: List your name, complete address, and telephone number with area code at the top of the page.

• Address the cover letter to a specific person. Include the employer contact information: name, address, telephone, and e-mail address.
• First paragraph: Begin with an introduction paragraph to explain how you learned about the job or the company. (Job fair, newspaper, friend.) Name the specific position that you are applying for.
• Second paragraph: Briefly write up your skills to aim toward the open position and explain what you can bring to the job. Do not simply repeat the information in your resume. Be creative when explaining why you are the best job match. The goal of the cover letter is to encourage the employer to read your resume.
• Third paragraph: Explain the next action you will take. For example: I will telephone in one week to follow up on this position. Be sure to thank the employer for their time, stating that you look forward to interviewing with them.
• Close and sign your letter. For example:

Respectfully,

Your handwritten signature

Type your name

Additional tips for cover letters:

• Use paper that matches your resume (white or ivory).
• Use the same color and font size as your resume.
• Make it brief, no more than one page.
• Write in your own words for a natural style.
• Write a new cover letter to aim at the job requirements for each job for which you are applying.
• Proof read your cover letter for correct spelling and grammar. Also, ask another person to proof read your cover letter.
• Be sure to sign your cover letter.

Sample Cover Letter

Mr. John Smith, District Manager
Smith Advertising
503 Sunset Road
River City, VA 22240
Dear Mr. Calhoun:

I am interested in the receptionist position advertised recently in the River City Chronicle.
Enclosed is my resume outlining my clerical experience and customer service skills. My qualifications include:

• Personable, with excellent customer and employee work relationships.
• Current personal computer skills with a variety of software packages.
• Self-starter with excellent problem solving skills.
• Reliable, received an award for outstanding attendance from ABC Company.

At your earliest convenience, I would like to meet with you to discuss how my skills might benefit Smith Advertising. Please expect my telephone call next Thursday morning to arrange a meeting time. Also, feel free to contact me at (304) 555-6210 or by e-mail at kbrown@someip.net
Thank you for your time and consideration for this position. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,

Ken Brown

678 Rapid Falls Drive

River City, VA 22401

(304) 555-6210

• e-mail: kbrown@someip.net