Cover Letter Format Template printable pdf download

Cover Letter Format Template

Cover Letter Format

To be effective, your cover letter should follow the basic

format of a typical business letter and should address three

general issues:

1. First Paragraph - Why you are writing

2. Middle Paragraphs - What you have to offer

3. Concluding Paragraph - How you will follow-up

Why You Are Writing

In some cases, you may have been referred to a potential

employer by a friend or acquaintance. Be sure to mention

this mutual contact, by name, up front since it is likely to

encourage your reader to keep reading!

If you are writing in response to a job posting, indicate where

you learned of the position and the title of the position. More

importantly, express your enthusiasm and the likely match

between your credentials and the position’s qualifications.

What You Have To Offer

In responding to an advertisement, refer specifically to

the qualifications listed and illustrate how your

particular abilities and experiences relate to the position

for which you are applying. In a prospecting letter

express your potential to fulfill the employer's needs

rather than focus on what the employer can offer you.

You can do this by giving evidence that you have

researched the organization thoroughly and that you

possess skills used within that organization.

Emphasize your achievements and problem-solving

skills. Show how your education and work skills are

transferable, and thus relevant, to the position for which

Cover Letter Format Template