Cover Letter Writing Yay for Being Smart 

What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter? Explain your experiences in a story-like format that works with the information provided in your resume Allow you to go in-depth about important experiences/skills and relate them to job requirements Show the employer that you are individualizing (tailoring) this job application Provide a sample of your written communication skills http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/549/01/

Formatting Info  Length Spacing Keep to one page. Write one paragraph of introduction, one-two paragraphs to highlight your skills, and one paragraph to conclude. Spacing Single-space your cover letter. Leave a space between addresses and dates in the heading. Leave a space between your heading (contact info) and greeting ("Dear...:"). Leave a space between each paragraph. Leave at least three spaces between your complimentary close ("Sincerely,") and typed name. Sign your name in ink between your complimentary close and typed name.

Header Line-by-Line Instructions Your Name Address City, State, Zip Code Phone Number Email Address One Space Date Employer Name Title Company Address City, State, Zip Code One Space Salutation (Dear ______________)

Body; Line-by-Line Instructions First Body Paragraph Do not indent (this is different than any other paragraph you will write) Include- Why you are writing What position you are applying for. Be clear and concise in your request. The employer should not have to read after this spot to know what you want. One Space Between Paragraphs Second Body Paragraph Include What do you have to offer the employer? Make connections between your abilities and their needs Show how your skills and experience match the job you are applying for This is an extension of your resume.

Body: Line-by-Line Instructions One Space Final Paragraph Insert any relevant facts/skills/information that is not appropriate to put in your resume. Thank the employer for considering your application. Include information on how you will follow up [including time frame (one week is typical)].

Conclusion: Line-by-Line Instructions One Space Complementary Close Please find enclosed my resume for your review.  I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for considering my candidacy.  I look forward to hearing from you. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my candidacy.  Thank you for your time and consideration. Respectfully yours, I recognize the limitations that written words can pose and would like to convey my interest to meet with you in person.  If you have questions about my candidacy, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you in person to discuss my qualifications and answer any questions you may have.  I look forward to hearing from you. Three Spaces (for signature) Typed First and Last Name

Enclosures At the Bottom of the Page Type the Word “Enclosures:” Your Cover Letter will be the first document in your application, so you will need to list what else should be included in the application, so your potential employer will know if anything else has gotten lost. Example Articles Resume Transcript Sample Work