Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Format

 

Your Name
Your Street Address
City, State, Zip Code
Your phone number
Your e-mail address

Date of Letter   

Contact's Name
Contact's Title
Company Name    
Street Address                       
             
City, State, Zip Code   
 

Salutation, : Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name and don't forget the comma at the end

Opening paragraph: Grab the attention of your reader while you clearly state why you are writing, state immediately the position or type of work you’re pursuing and, where applicable, how did you hear about the opening. Tell the employer briefly in one or two sentences why you're interested in this position.

1-2 Middle paragraph(s): Explain your relevant skills for the job. That could be coursework, activities, or work experience. Use examples that support your relevant skills. For example: the employer wants a team player, but you have no work experience. Think of the skills you gained as a football player, or dispute leader and how these skills could be used in this position. If you’ve had relevant school or work experience, be sure to point it out; but, do not reiterate your entire resume. Emphasize skills or abilities that relate to the job. Be sure to do this in a confident manner and remember that the reader will view your letter as an example of your writing skills. Also tell the employer why you are particularly interested in that organization. Avoid generic reasons that are stated on the company website.

The goal of these 1 or 2 paragraphs is to relate your strengths to the specific demands of the position. Do not state a list with skills and things you've done, that's something for your resume. Instead make your case for what you have to offer and why you want to offer it to this particular company.

Closing paragraph: You may refer the reader to your enclosed resume. Have an appropriate closing to pave the way for a meeting by indicating the action or steps you’ll take to arrange an appointment. You might mention that if you do not hear anything from the employer within one or two weeks time that you will call as a follow-up to see where they are in their hiring process. Finish by thanking them for their time and consideration.

Sincerely,


Your signature ( leave 3-4 blank spaces for this, only when you send a printed letter)


Your name typed

Enclosure - if your resume or other enclosure is used, note here


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