The Basic Format Of A Cover Letter printable pdf download

writing cover letters

a guide to writing great cover letters

THE BASIC FORMAT

Your Name

The cover letter works together with your resume to

or use the

Address

introduce ‘you’ to potential employers. Always include

same header

Phone

a cover letter with your resume. It may not be requested,

from your

but it is implied. Maintain a consistent look with your

resume

Website

resume and cover letter. The letter should be written in

business format, no longer than one page, and should

Date

serve as the starting point for a phone conversation or

in-person interview.

Contact Person (Mr., Mrs., or Ms.)

Title

Company Name

Address

City, State, Zip

(Country if applicable)

Whenever possible, the cover letter should be directed to a specific

person. This improves the chances of your materials being reviewed

Dear (Mr., Mrs., or Ms.) Contact Person,

by the proper person or committee. Avoid using “To Whom it May

Concern,” and use “Hiring Manager” or “Selection Committee” instead.

pa r a g r a p h 1

t h e i n t r o d u c t i o n

Who you are | What position you are applying to | Your relationship to them

Introduce yourself and identify why you are contacting them. If you have been referred to this contact by another individual,

identify him or her in this paragraph. Most importantly, let them know what position you are applying for.

pa r a g r a p h 2

w h y t h e m

Why you like them | What’s relevant about them to you

An employer will be impressed that you have done your homework on them. Research the company using their website and take

notes of projects or ideals that you are impressed with. Mention a few examples of and share why you see yourself fitting in at

their company, and specifically in this role. Of all of the jobs out there, why do you want to work for them?

pa r a g r a p h 3

w h y y o u

What will you contribute | What’s relevant about you to them

Highlight the relevant parts of your resume that most qualify you for the position. Site specific experiences and skills that

demonstrate what you will be bringing to the employer. What unique strengths do you have and how can they be utilized in this

role? Choose skills that match or closely relate to those in the job description.

pa r a g r a p h 4

t h e c l o s i n g

Thanks | Enclosures | Contact | Website | Next Step

Close by thanking the prospective employer for their time and consideration. Let them know the best way to get in touch with you.

Mention enlosures such as your resume or portfolio samples, and/or direct them to your website or online portfolio. If you plan

to relocate or if you are best reached at certain days/times, this is the place to say so. Remember, do whatever you say you are

going to do here, mark it on your calendar and follow up!

Sincerely,

Your name (typed)

410-225-2420 - CAREERDEVELOPMENT@MICA.EDU - -

The Basic Format Of A Cover Letter

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