1. 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

2. 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

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

4. 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.

5. 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

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

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

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

9. 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

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

11. 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

12. 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

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

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

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