1. Cover Letters
Ms. Batichon

2. APK This unit has THREE purposes:
We will understand the definition of a Cover Letter;
We will learn how to properly format a cover letter;
We will also continue to practice our typing skills (remember to use the home keys when you are typing).

3. Video

4. As you watch the video think about these two Questions
Why should you write a Cover Letter?
What information should you put in a Cover Letter?

5. Cover Letters
A cover letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience;
Employers use cover letters as a way to screen applicants for available jobs and to determine which candidates they would like to interview;
A cover letter provides detailed information on why you are qualified for the job; and
Effective cover letters explain the reasons for your interest in the organization and identify your most relevant skills or experiences.

6. Cover Letters Leave a space between: Single space the paragraphs.
Your address and the date;
The heading and the salutation;
Each paragraph;
The final paragraph and your closing; and
The closing and your signature.
Single space the paragraphs.

7. Cover Letter Your cover letter should be one page or less;
Each paragraph should contain three or four sentences;
Use a 10 or 12 point font;
Align your cover letter to the left.

8. Cover Letter SALUTATION
Include an appropriate salutation at the beginning of the cover letter or message;
If you have a contact person for your letter, include their name in your letter;
Appropriate salutations:
Dear Mr. Jones,
Dear Ms. Jones,
Dear Jane Doe,

9. Cover Letter SALUTATION
If you don't have a contact person at the company:
Leave off the salutation or use a general salutation.
General Salutations for Cover Letters:
Dear Hiring Manager,
To Whom It May Concern,
Dear Human Resources Manager,
Dear Sir or Madam, or
Dear Company Name Recruiter,

10. The Body Section of a Cover Letter
The most important part:
It explains why you are interested in and qualified for the job;
It tells the hiring manager what position you are applying for;
Talk about why the employer should select you for an interview; and
It's important to be specific about your qualifications as they relate to the position

11. The Body Section of a Cover Letter
First paragraph:
Why you are writing;
Mention the position you are applying for and where you saw the listing; and
Include the name of a contact, if you have one.
Middle paragraphs:
Describe what you have to offer the employer;
Mention specifically how your skills and experience match the job ;
Use several shorter paragraphs or a bulleted list of your qualifications rather than one large block of text.
Final paragraph:
Thanking the employer for considering you for the position; and
Include information on how you will follow-up.

12. Cover Letter closing Close your letter in a professional manner; and
Follow the closing with a comma.
Cover letter closing examples:
Sincerely
Sincerely yours
Regards
Best regards
Kind regards
Yours truly
Most sincerely
Respectfully
Respectfully yours
Thank you
Thank you for your consideration

13. Cover Letter closing Cover Letter Closing Example: Best regards,
Jane Doe
DO NOT FORGET TO SIGN YOUR LETTER!!!

14. Questions!!!