Cover Letter Instructions

First & Last Name
Street Address
City, State, Zip
Phone (Cell/Home)
Email Address

Name of Person (if at all possible)

Name of Company

Address of Company

Date

Re: Open Position Title

Dear (Name or Title of Person),

To be effective, your cover letter should follow the basic format of a typical business letter and should address three general issues: First Paragraph-Why you are writing, Middle Paragraph-What you have to offer and 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 then you need to 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 you are applying.

How You Will Follow Up
Close by reiterating your interest in the job and letting the employer know how they can reach you and include your phone number and/or email address. Or ask directly for the job interview or informational interview and indicate that you are available for an interview at their convenience. You want to summarize your interest in the position, show a positive tone, and demonstrate your ability to be professional.

Sincerely,

(Leave 2 blank lines here for your signature to be above your typed name)

Your Full Name

Enclosure: Résumé