Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter
Purpose - a cover letter is always sent with your resume to
introduce yourself to an employer and to communicate your interest in
being considered for a position with that organization. The cover
letter should make note of some of your qualifications for the job and
get the employer interested in reading your resume. Each cover letter
you send will be different. The last paragraph of a cover letter
should include a request for an interview.
Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter
- Send it to someone by name-get the name of the person who is in
charge or the person who will be interviewing you.
- If you are unable to determine a name of the person in charge
begin with: Dear Sir or Madam:
- No mistakes---Make sure you get the person's name and title,
organization name, and address correct!
- Be certain there are no spelling or grammatical errors
before you send it!
- Be friendly and professional not pushy! The purpose of the
letter is to request an interview not demand one!
- Use good-quality paper that matches your resume paper-and a
matching envelope if possible.
- Be clear about your reason for writing---your goal is to get an
interview, so make sure you ask for one!
- Do not be too wordy-managers are busy people and don't have time
to read a letter that never seems to get to the point---Be brief and
direct.
- Explain what is special about you-sell yourself. Give
highlights of your background that show why you are qualified for
the position.
- Make sure to thank the person for his/her time in your
closing paragraph.
- Have a career counselor proofread your cover letter. Perfection
is the goal!
SAMPLE COVER LETTER
Your Street Address
Anytown, PA 18888
(570) 555-5555
Current Date
Exact Name of Person
Title or Position
Name of Company
Street Address
City, State Zip
Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name of Person:
(Dear Sir or Madam if answering a blind ad):
As a recent graduate of Keystone College in the
field of Hotel and Restaurant Management, I am very interested in
pursuing a career with your organization. I am enclosing a copy of my
resume for your review.
In May 2004, I received my Associate's Degree in
Hotel and Restaurant Management from Keystone College. My employment
experience includes working since the summer of 1996 as a hostess,
waitress and banquet coordinator. After starting with a family-style
restaurant at age 14, I quickly earned a reputation as a mature and
responsible young person. I earned the trust of the owner and was
soon working all shifts and filling in during the manager's absence.
Very customer-service oriented, I am known for my
ability to remain calm and in control during hectic and busy times. I
value teamwork and I try to motivate others to follow my example of
professionalism and dedication to service.
I welcome the opportunity to meet with you at your
convenience to discuss your current and future needs and how I might
serve them. You may reach me at (570) 555-5555. I look forward to
your call. Thank you for your kind attention and consideration.
Sincerely,
(Your Signature Here)
Your Full Name -Typed
Enclosure
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