Cover Letters Make yourself look good

What the heck is a cover letter? A cover letter is an introduction of yourself and your resume to the potential employer. Usually asked for and needed when sending your resume Clarifies the position you are applying for It should focus on how the skills and experiences you have can be utilized in the position being offered. Grabs the employer's attention Should answer the questions: “Why should I give you an interview?” “Why should I hire you” Ask an Employer to take action

Purpose of a Cover letter Gives your potential employer more information on your interest, qualifications, and availability beyond your resume specific to your the job presented It is your first chance to make a good impression - so make sure that you are clear, concise, and straightforward with what you can do for the company and what they can do for you

What's in a Cover Letter Date Greeting Opening Paragraph Middle Paragraph Closing Paragraph Sincerely Signature Contact info at the bottom of signature

The Introduction Indicate your reason for writing The name of the position you are applying for How you learned about the position If you have some experience in the same job being offered, let them know you have it Add some personality But remain professional, concise, and how you would be great for the position

The 2nd paragraph This should describe what you have to offer to the employer How you are qualified for the job are are applying for Try interpreting your resume, not repeating it Express skills and experience that employer is looking for in a candidate Provide some concrete examples that you are most proud of Include evidence of your skills and qualification How your skills and education match the job Use keywords from the job description that match your skills and experience

The Conclusion Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for consideration and include information on how you will follow up Include an action for the employer to take “I look forward to hearing from you. My contact information is below [below your signature]” “I would be happy to discuss or meet to provide any additional information about my resume at your earliest convenience.”

Included your signature Close out your cover letter with Sincerely Regards Include your signature as well Below you signature make sure to have your contact infor. Ex. Alexander Rincon AlexanderR@LAPromisefund.org (323)516-8580

Cover Letter Writing Tips A cover letter should be job centered and how you can succeed in the job Not self centered Should be 1 page max Should not be too lengthy Try to address to a specific person if that is made available to you The person interviewing for the job Research the name of the contact person or hiring manager If a name is not available, you can just put “Dear Hiring Manager” ALWAYS proofread and check for mistakes, grammar, punctuation, and tone Read aloud Have someone you trust read it and ask them for feedback It should not be a recap word for word of what's contained in your resume Be appropriate and formal when writing your coverletter!

Questions??