Introduction to Business & Marketing Cover Letters Process/Skill Questions What is the relationship between an application/cover letter and an application form? How are the two different from each other? Why is each important? What is the relationship between a résumé and an application/cover letter? How are their contents different? What qualities would an employer look for in an application/cover letter? How can the applicant ensure that these qualities are communicated in his or her application/cover letter? Why should application/cover letters be customized to fit the individual employer? Introduction to Business & Marketing

Letter of Application The letter of application is used as a cover letter for a resume to: Tell the employer why you are applying Inquire about possible positions

Purpose of Including a Cover Letter Introduces who you are Explains why you are sending a resume Makes a good impression Demonstrates professionalism

General Guidelines Make it personal Address the letter to the appropriate individual (hiring manager) in the business. Make it professional Use business letter format. Be concise with no more than 3 – 4 short paragraphs.

What to Write Emphasize pertinent qualifications & how they relate to the job Indicate that you know something about the company (research) Indicate why you are looking for a job Include a request for an interview

Write a letter of application. Task 93 Write a letter of application.

Contact Information Full Name Street Address include city, state & zip code Phone Number(s) Email Address The contact information on your cover letter should match your resume!

Date Write out the full date – no abbreviations! January 11, 2016 (not Jan. 11, 2016)

Employer Information Full Name Job Title Company’s Address Address your letter to the hiring manager of the company or department to which you are applying. If you don’t know who it is, do some research! Dear Hiring Manager, Selection Committee, Personnel Specialist

Salutation Business letters use only the following prefixes: Mr. Ms. Dr. Address the hiring manager formally by last name

Paragraph #1 Explain why you are writing to the manager Indicate the position for which you would like to apply Explain how you heard about the job opening

Paragraph #2 Describe what makes you the ideal candidate for the position Match your abilities with their needs (job description) Refer to your resume qualifications

Paragraph #3 Ask for an interview Thank the employer for considering you Explain how and when you will follow up

Complimentary Close Use a professional closing, such as: Respectfully yours, Best regards, Sincerely, Include your handwritten signature followed by your typed full name

Use the template on VISION to write your cover letter. Assignment Use the template on VISION to write your cover letter.