Sample Cover And Thank You Letters (Page 3 of 13) in pdf

OVER

ETTERS

The purpose of a cover letter is to entice the reader to flip the page and give your resume a long, hard look. The

cover letter demonstrates how your background fits the particular job and organization to which you are applying.

The cover letter introduces your resume and is what the prospective employer will see first. A cover letter

provides an opportunity to:

 Elaborate on your career objective.

 Demonstrate that you have some knowledge about the employer and are making an informed decision.

o The more you know about the organization the better you will be able to tailor your experience and skills

to fit their needs.

 Target your special interests, qualifications, and/or experiences to the needs of the organization.

 Describe the unique personal qualities that you would bring to the position.

 Gives you the opportunity to explain dark spots in academic history or gaps in work history.

o Do this in an inconspicuous manner as to not draw attention to it.

Types of cover letters

Letter of Application

 To apply for an announced position currently available.

 A solicited letter.

Letter of Inquiry

 To express interest in working for a particular employer, even if you are uncertain if positions are currently

available.

 An unsolicited letter.

Networking Letters

 To ask for help and/or advice in your career search.

 To seek out special consideration due to mutual acquaintances.

 To set up information interviews.

Guidelines for cover letters

 Each cover letter should be an original, addressed to a specific individual. If you do not know the name of the

person, your salutation should be appropriate for either sex, such as Dear Human Resources Manager; Dear

Sir or Madam; or To Whom it May Concern. CAUTION: Never use Dear Sir unless you know for CERTAIN

the person reading your letter is a male.

 Personalize each cover letter, making it relevant and tailored to the job for which you are applying. You want

to show how your skills and experience will directly contribute to the position you are applying for.

 Do not merely repeat what is in your resume. Call attention to and elaborate on items in your resume. Take

advantage of this opportunity to provide special information that is not on your resume, but which may be of

particular interest to the employer.

 Use clear, concise language and correct grammar.

 Limit your letter to one typewritten page (two-four typed paragraphs).

 A cover letter should reflect your personality, however, it is a business letter and should not deviate widely

from conventional format or tone.

 When salary history or requirements are requested by the employer, it is best to state a range. You should

research the field in which you are applying to get a handle on what the market rate salary is for a person with

your experience and education.

Sample Cover And Thank You Letters Page 3