Check this list before you send out your cover letter:
- One page only and limited to 3 focused paragraphs. Keep every paragraph under five lines.
- Make sure your sentences begin with or contain, wherever possible, powerful action verbs.
- Include pertinent personal data; name, address, zip code, e-mail, and personal telephone number.
- Make sure you have spelled the person’s name correctly, and that you have the individual’s exact job title and company name.
- Show the employer what you can offer the company, and support and amplify your resume.
- Mention your contributions and achievements, as well as problems you have personally solved during your career.
- Show energy and enthusiasm for the position, company.
- Show your skills, interests, and experience to the needs of the employer.
- Use a word processor and print as a standard business style format and 8-1/2″ x 11″ paper.
- Do not include any negative information.
- Clearly ask for the next step in the process.
- Read it from the employer’s perspective.
- Type or neatly print address on envelope and seal the envelop.
- Cover letter should always go with resume.
COVER LETTER FORMAT
| John Smith 1234 Main Avenue Tucson, AZ 85012 602/743-4866, johnsmith@maryville.edu |
| Date Mr. or Ms. First Name Employer Title of Employer Organization/Company Name Street Address City, State Zip Dear Mr. or Ms. Employer: 1st Paragraph: Tell why you are writing, usually to apply for a position. Name the position, field, or general area about which you are asking. Explain how you heard of the opening or organization. If a current employee suggested that you look into this opening, include his or her name here. If you heard of the opening through the newspaper, include the name of the publication and the date. 2nd Paragraph: Mention one or two qualifications you think would be of greatest interest to the employer, addressing your remarks to his/her point of view. Explain why you think you are particularly interested in the organization or type of work. If you have had related experience or specialized training, point it out. Expand on or highlight the information stated in your resume. 3rd Paragraph: If appropriate, address the requirements specified in the advertisement. If you need a second paragraph to elaborate on your talents and accomplishments, use this paragraph for that purpose. 4th Paragraph: Close by making a specific request for an interview. If you plan to be in the geographic area of the company, suggest a specific date and time that you will telephone to establish an appointment. Make sure that your closing statement is positive and makes a request for specific action from the reader. Thank your reader for his/her time and consideration. Sincerely, (Your handwritten signature) Your typewritten name or signiture |