1. Cover Letters

2. What is a Cover Letter? A typed letter to introduce yourself A typed letter to introduce yourself Sent with resume and/or job application Sent with resume and/or job application

3. Let your personality shine through…sell yourself Let your personality shine through…sell yourself

4. Cover Letter must… 1. Catch reader’s attention 2. Create desire 3. Ask for the opportunity

5. Addresses Your Name & Address Your Name & Address Current Date Current Date Name & address to person in charge of hiring Name & address to person in charge of hiring Address to a specific person. Address to a specific person.

6. Salutation “Dear…” “Dear…” Address to a specific person. Address to a specific person.

7. Opening Paragraph Why are you writing? State the job you are applying for AND State the job you are applying for AND How you found out about the job How you found out about the job

8. Example… I am writing about a position as a Child Care Aide which was advertised in the September 9 issue of the Olathe Daily News. I am very interested in helping young children in an educational setting.

9. Body Paragraph Showcase your skills & credentials Showcase your skills & credentials

10. Example… I am a senior at Olathe North High School and have taken courses in Parenting and psychology. I have held a job at a day care facility for the past year and a half. My resume reflects the abilities I possess that qualify me for the position.

11. Closing Paragraph Ask for the interview! Ask for the interview! List contact phone number(s) List contact phone number(s)

12. Signature & Enclosures Sincerely, Respectively, In Anticipation, Enthusiastically Sincerely, Respectively, In Anticipation, Enthusiastically Your Name Typed Your Name Typed Enclosures Enclosures

13. Example Thank you for your time and I look forward to discussing this position with you in further detail. I can be reached at (913) 780-7140 to set up a time for an interview. Sincerely, Your Name Encl: Resume

14. Tips… Never send a resume without a cover letter Never send a resume without a cover letter Use good quality paper Use good quality paper

15. Tips… Provide specific information that highlights your skills Provide specific information that highlights your skills Research the company Research the company Proofread over & over!! Proofread over & over!!

16. Assignment 1. Write a cover letter to accompany your resume 2. Remember to use correct letter form and be specific.