<< Back to Previous Page

A cover letter is written with a specific task in mind - to introduce yourself and sell your qualifications to an employer. It lets the employer know that you are aware of their needs, interests and direction, and that you have the skills, abilities and experiences that will meet their needs. A cover letter must accompany your resume wherever it goes, except when you personally hand it to someone. In that case you yourself act as the cover letter.

Since a cover letter is written to a specific person for a specific purpose, it can be written for a variety of reasons: in response to an advertised position, as a follow-up letter after a networking meeting, as a targeted marketing tool to specific organizations, or in response to a referral from a friend. An effective cover letter will:

1.     Get Attention

Your cover letter is the key to getting someone to read your resume and allows you to demonstrate to an employer how your skills and experience relate to the specific position or organization. If the letter is effective, it will convince the employer not only to turn the page and read your resume, but to also contact you for an interview.

2.     Advertise

Your cover letter gives you opportunity to introduce yourself to the employer, and so must be carefully crafted to create a lasting impression, not only of your skills and experience, but also of your enthusiasm, personal qualities, and interest in the organization or position.

3.     Turn Interest into Opportunity

Employers are always looking for quality people, so writing an effective cover letter can open doors of opportunity by letting employers know that you are available and have the experience and skills needed.

Your cover letter and resume can be the link connecting you to a functional work area and let an employer know how they can hire someone like you.

4.     Be Professional in Appearance

• Use a professional, business-letter format.
• Each copy must be an original, not a photocopy.
• Use the same paper, and preferably the same type font as your resume.
• Carefully check spelling, grammar, and typing. One spelling or grammar error can get your letter and resume tossed out.
• Be sure your letter is signed, that your resume is included, and that the address on the envelope matches the address on the letter.
• Everything a potential employer receives from you - resume, cover letter, follow-up and thank-you letters - must project professionalism.

5.     Content

Always include:

• A description of the position or title of the position you seek.
• Name of person who referred you to the organization (if applicable).
• A specific, brief summary of your most desirable qualifications that would meet their needs.
• A request for an interview, and an established time when you will follow up with a phone call or visit. Be sure to follow through on any commitment you make.
• Always address your cover letter to the person who is responsible for initiating the hiring process or for making the hiring decision. Avoid sending letters "To Whom It May Concern," "Dear Sir or Madam," or "Personnel Director."

5.     Remember

• Pick out a few employers, research them and target them with personalized cover letters. You will be more likely to obtain a response.
• Don't think it will be effective to send the same cover letter with just the names changed to a variety of employers. Employers can spot a generic letter of this type a mile away.
• Keep a copy of your letter along with any information you may have on the job.

COVER LETTER OUTLINE

Your Street Address
City, State Zip Code



Date



Mr. or Ms. Employer
Title
Organization/Company Name
Street Address
City, State and Zip Code

Dear Mr. or Ms. Employer:

Opening paragraph: State why you are writing, name the position or kind of work for which you are applying, and mention how you heard of the opening (if appropriate).

Middle paragraph(s): Refer to research you have conducted on the position and employer, identifying exactly what they are looking for in the ideal candidate. Indicate the skills you have that would meet their needs. Detail specific examples from your experience and/or education that support your skills. Do not refer the reader to your resume. It is your responsibility to highlight the best evidence you have of your qualifications in this section.

Closing paragraph(s): Indicate the action or steps you will take next to initiate an interview date.

Sincerely,



(Your signature)

Your Name Typed

Enclosure (This indicates that your resume is included)

SAMPLE COVER LETTER



345 Main Street
La Mirada, CA 90639
(562) 903-6199

October 10, 2001

Ms. Belinda Ramirez
District Manager, Western Region
Athletic Gear
6792 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 200
Los Angeles, CA 90007


Dear Ms. Ramirez,

In researching companies for an Organizational Psychology project, I came across an article in the Orange County Register that sparked my interest in your company. I am writing to inquire about employment opportunities in your management-training program. I am interested pursuing a career in retail management.

My undergraduate degree in Psychology from Biola University will be completed in May 2002. In researching this position, I have discovered that you are looking for someone who has proven ability to work as a member of a team, can solve problems through creative brainstorming, and has a familiarity with the athletic wear industry in general and the needs of customers.

In assessing my own skills, I believe I bring the experience and education to meet your needs. As a member of the Biola Forensics team, I motivated its members by giving consistent feedback and encouragement which culminated in a second place award in the recent District Competition. Additionally, I worked part-time as an administrative assistant in an office setting and learned about time management, goal setting and problem solving. In my Organizational Psychology class, I was able to research and write a paper on management styles and their impact in motivating employee performance. As far as my athletic interests, I enjoy running 10 k races and hope to train for a marathon someday!

I am convinced that I can offer my consistent track record in teamwork, creativity, and my commitment to athletics. My plan is to call you the week of November 4th to discuss the possibility of learning more about your management-training program. If in the meantime you would like to contact me, please feel free to call me at (562) 903-6199.

I look forward to speaking with you!

Sincerely,



Ann Example



Enclosure

<< Back to Previous Page