Resume Writing For The Nursing Graduate (Page 6 of 6) in pdf

Cover Letter Content and Layout

Use your personal letterhead at the top of your cover letter or a standard business letter format

A. N

TUDENT

AME

1234 Street Name City, State Zip Code Phone Number

Month Day, Year

Contact Person

Title Company/Organization Name

Street Address City

State and Zip Code

Dear Mr. or Ms. (Contact’s Last Name)*:

First paragraph: Why you are writing In your initial paragraph, state the reason for your letter. You are applying in

response to a specific opening. State the position and indicate how you learned of it. If you found out from someone

currently working there, be sure to mention their name (with their permission, of course).

Second paragraph: What you have to offer Indicate why you are interested in the position or organization. Do your

research! Above all, indicate what you can do for the employer. This is known as an employer-focused letter. If all of

your paragraphs begin with “I…”, then you have written a self-focused letter. Change your wording! If you are a recent

graduate, explain how your academic background makes you a qualified candidate for the position. If you have practical

work experience, point out your specific achievements or unique qualifications. You may refer to your enclosed resume,

but try not to repeat the same information that the reader will find there. This is your chance to expand that information

and really shine.

Third paragraph: What happens next? In the closing paragraph, indicate your desire for a personal interview. Close with

a statement that will encourage a response. Ask the employer to contact you if they desire additional information. Give

the person your phone number (make sure this is somewhere you can be reached during the day, or that has voice mail)

and thank them for their time. [If you use your personal letterhead at the top of the letter, you may simply refer the

person to your phone number above rather than stating it here.]

Sincerely,

Signature here

Typed Name

Enclosure

*If you do not know the name of the specific contact, refer to websites or business directories and/or contact the business

directly to find out to whom you should direct your correspondence

Resume Writing For The Nursing Graduate Page 6