From Student To Professional: A Guide To Resume Writing (Page 23 of 27) in pdf

From Student To Professional: A Guide To Resume Writing Page 23

THE COVER LETTER

The cover letter is a typed business correspondence on 8-1/2" x 11" bond paper, which exactly

matches the paper used for your resume. It is recommended that you use white, cream or ivory

colored paper. These colors are easiest to read and/or scan.

The purpose of a cover letter is to supplement your resume and communicate to a prospective

employer a specific personalized message concerning your potential contribution to that organization.

Your cover letter, therefore, must not be a canned, ―one-size-fits-all‖ model.

Your cover letter should be three to four paragraphs on one page. Each cover letter needs to be

written for the specific job for which you are applying. When possible, direct your letter to a specific

individual within the organization.

COVER LETTER FORMAT

Street Address

City, State, ZIP Code

Date

Name, Title

Company Name

Street Address

City, State, ZIP Code

Dear (Indicate who):

The First Paragraph must generate interest, communicating why you are writing. Do not begin your letter

with the words, ―My name is . . . .‖ Include information your research has revealed which is uniquely

associate with the person, division or organization to whom you are writing and communicate a

relationship between your objective and their need.

The Middle Paragraph(s) (1-2) sells your experience, skills, success, appeals to the employer’s interest.

You may highlight information on your resume or present additional information you believe is significant.

It is here that you answer the reader’s question, ―Why should I interview this applicant?‖ Do not restate the

information as it appears on your resume. Tailor your experience to fit the organization and position.

The Final Paragraph should be a request for action on the reader’s part (―I look forward to hearing from

you…‖) to identify a mutually convenient time to schedule a personal meeting. Be sure to thank the

employer!

Sincerely yours,

Your Signature

Your Name Typed

From Student To Professional: A Guide To Resume Writing Page 23