THE IMPORTANCE OF
WRITING COVER LETTERS

The cover letter is every bit as important as your resume and should always accompany your resume or CV. Your cover letter introduces you (and your resume) to your prospective employer.

Your cover letter serves to ask for an interview. Your prospective employer then decides whether or not to read your resume to learn more about you. When all is said and done, the prospective employer will feel compelled to call you in for that important interview to learn more about you.

Below is an outline on how to write an effective cover letter. Following, there are several different examples of a cover letter, including a basic cover letter template.

COVER LETTER OUTLINE –
HOW TO WRITE A GOOD COVER LETTER

Top left hand corner of letter, write your contact details, date

Jennifer Tilly
2150 Orange Grove
New York, NY 55555
(555) 555-5555

February 20, 2005

(Write contact details of prospective employer)

Mr. John Smythe
Director
Icon Management
5854 Tombon Road
New York, NY 55555

Dear Mr. Smythe

(Opening paragraph - Use an opening that will bring yourself to the attention of the reader and make clear the exact job you are applying for. Use one of the following:)

1. Summarize the opening
2. Name the opening
3. Request an opening
4. Question the availability of an opening

(Secondary paragraph(s)- Provide descriptive information to provide the reader with good reasons to invite you to an interview. Use a variety of the following:)

1. Education
2. Work experience
3. Ability to work with others and/or alone
4. Interest in your field
5. Interest in the company
6. Responsibilities in previous positions

(Closing paragraph - This will be written so your prospective employer will take action!)

Take the initiative and suggest a good time for you to come in for an interview. Be sure to include all of your contact information, including your email and fax numbers.

(Close with:)

Sincerely,

Enclosure (this will be your resume)

To review, you will always begin your cover letter by placing your full name, address, telephone number and email address, if you have one, in the top left hand corner of your letter. You will follow this with the same information addressing your letter to your prospective employer.

When addressing your prospect, always use full name, address, etc., and do not use abbreviations.

Address your letter directly to the person in charge of hiring.

Sign your letter by hand.

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