1. A Cover Letter Writing Guide mgr Anna Waligórska – Kotfas PWSZ Konin

2. A cover letter  (also: a covering letter, a motivation letter, a motivational letter or a letter of motivation) typically provides detailed information on why are you are qualified for the job you are applying for. Effective cover letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify your most relevant skills or experiences. Cover letters are sent with a resume (a CV) when applying for jobs.

3. The cover letter is a reflection of you. Make a positive first impression.

4. Correct or Not?

5.  Your address  Date  Address of the person you are writing to  Salutation Try to find out the name and gender of the person who will be reviewing your resume. Be sure you spell the name correctly. Use a colon ( : ) after the salutation.  Opening Paragraph The first paragraph should clearly state the position and where you heard about it (newspaper, webpage, telephone call). Parts of the Cover Letter

6.  Middle Paragraph These paragraphs should answer the question “Why am I an excellent candidate for this position?” Refer to your resume. Highlight those strengths (education, experience, volunteer work, skills) which specifically relate to the job. Reflect back some of the words, terms or skills that were mentioned in the job posting or newspaper advertisement.  Final Paragraph The final paragraph is your chance to leave a positive impression. It should highlight your desire to meet with the person to talk about employment opportunities and to emphasize that you would like to be considered for an available position now or in the future.  The Closing Finish the letter with “ Yours sincerely”. Be sure to sign your letter.

7. Remember:  Type your cover letter unless otherwise specified.  It must be free of grammatical, spelling or typing errors. Never cross out, white out or leave in errors.  Do not use abbreviations.  Remember to include your return address, your telephone number, the date and the employer’s address.  Keep the paragraphs short – generally no more than three sentences each. Long paragraph will be skimmed over and the message may be lost.

8. Practice  Market Leader: Essential Business Grammar and Usage, unit 95.

9. Bibliography  About.com : English as a Second Language: http://esl.about.com/od/writingintermediate /a/w_cover.htm, 4.10.2013. http://esl.about.com/od/writingintermediate /a/w_cover.htm http://esl.about.com/od/writingintermediate /a/w_cover.htm  Cover Letter Workbook by the Winnipeg Transition Centre: http://www.employmentoptions.ca/Informat ionAndResources/Documents/JobSearchT ools/CoverLetter.pdf, 4.10.2013. http://www.employmentoptions.ca/Informat ionAndResources/Documents/JobSearchT ools/CoverLetter.pdf http://www.employmentoptions.ca/Informat ionAndResources/Documents/JobSearchT ools/CoverLetter.pdf