1. How To Craft An Effective Cover Letter
Pre-workshop survey:

2. Cover Letters
Cover letters ‘cover’ the content of resumes, and present skills and experience as they pertain to the job. A cover letter must be written according to the job posting itself. They are not ‘one size fits all.’ Using the typical business letter model, they are constructed upon three skills the writer has that make him/her the ideal candidate for the job.

3. Cover Letter Formatting
Flush left, ragged-right margins
Single-spaced, two spaces btw paragraphs
No paragraph first-line indentation
Left headers: your address, date; company name, address
Simple salutation: ‘Dear Human Resources’
Usually approximates one page in length

4. Paragraph One
Consists usually of no more than two sentences. First sentence tells what the job title is you’re applying for, where you found it. Second sentence contains the three skills you possess the company seeks in this new hire.
Begins with focus on the reader: ‘Your’
Contains no extraneous information
Shows attention to exact company requirements

5. Paragraph One Example/Posted Job
“Your posting on CareerBuzz for a software specialist with networking skills interests me. With my class project work on computer networks, application knowledge, and proven communication skills, I can serve ____ well.”

6. Paragraph One Example/No Advertised Position
“Can ____ use the services of a graduating CS senior with networking skills? With my class project work on computer networks, application knowledge, and proven communication skills, I can serve you well.”

7. When No Job Posting Exists, Apply Anyway
Approach companies of interest
Research companies/jobs/job titles
Use a question to begin first paragraph
Provide three skills you know will be relevant
Avoid too much specificity
Utilize the power of suggestion
Follow the rest of cover letter model

8. Body Paragraphs Use one paragraph per listed skill
Provide example of skill utilization
Derive from work, class, lab, project, self-assigned study, leadership
Show reader what, how, why, end result
Include numbers, hard facts, as needed
Show mastery of detail, competency in field

9. Concluding Paragraph
Consists of two sentences, and ends letter on positive note. Avoids questions or requirements. Reminds reader of three salient skills possessed by applicant.
First sentence invites resume read
Second sentence reiterates three skills, invites reader to contact writer

10. Concluding Paragraph Example
“After you have read my resume for additional information on my qualifications and work experience, I will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to contact me to discuss how my computer network project expierence, application knowledge, and communication abilities can serve you at ____.”

11. Cover Letter Advantages
Illustrates relevant skills as required by job/company
Provides detailed narrative about projects, goals, multitasking experience
Contains ‘key words’ or exact phrases from posting.
Competency, experience, exposure given further detail (after resume)
Post-workshop survey: