Cover Letter

There are four main elements to a cover letter.

• Opening. Explain why you're writing. State the position you are seeking and the source of the job opening. (e.g., newspaper ad, friend, co-worker).
• Main body. Highlight your job qualifications and link them to the company's needs. Show that you know something about the company and are interested in the company's products or services.
• Closing. Request an interview and enclose your phone number.
• Thank the employer for his or her time and effort.

Other important information when writing a cover letter:

• Write an individualized cover letter for each job employer.
• Address the letter to the person you want to contact, preferably the one doing the hiring.
• Type letter on quality 8 ½ x 11 paper.
• Use correct grammar, spelling and punctuation.
• Convey personal warmth and enthusiasm.
• Keep your letter short and to the point.
• Describe how your skills and abilities will benefit the company.
• Provoke the employer to read your resume.
• Request a job interview.
• Keep a copy for your follow-up records.
• Sign your letter.

Follow-Up

Keep a file of the resumes you send out and follow up with a phone call. Surveys have shown that only two percent of resumes mailed to employers result in an interview. If you follow up with a phone call, the success rate jumps to 20 percent.

Below is an example of a cover letter.

 

14 Busy Avenue
Gloucester, MA 01632
November 16, 1993

Ms. Gail Zwenthal, President
What's In Store, Inc.
1 Copley Place
Boston, MA 02116

Dear Ms. Zwenthal:

I am interested in the Customer Service position you recently advertised in the Boston Gazette on November 15, 1993.

My part-time work experience and high school education have prepared me for this position. As the yearbook sales representative, I was responsible for the communication and problem-solving needed to successfully sell the advertisements for the yearbooks. I can also use WordPerfect and type forty-five words per minute.

I would like to discuss my skills in an interview. My home telephone number is (508) 947-8811.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Shirley Givens

 

< back to Tips on Writing Your Resume | Records, Resumes, and Portfiolios Home >