The Cover Letter

What should a cover letter do? Introduces you Creates attention Leads the reader to the resume Draw attention to key summaries of your resume

Remember, don’t disqualify yourself by . . . Being too lengthy Bad grammar and incorrect punctuation Unprofessional format Take pride in your work and put your best foot forward.

Function Cover letters introduce the reader of the resume to the writer personalize the resume provide more detail and any relevant experience.

Form business letter Heading Date Salutation/greeting ex. Dear Search Committee… body paragraphs closing signature

eFfectiveness A good cover letter Has a clear purpose that shows why you are writing it  Is visually appropriate and appealing, or easy to read  Includes additional relevant information about the writer Is grammatically correct with no errors in punctuation or spelling

Cover Letter Paragraph One – This is why I am writing to you Create attention Type of introductions: Summary Name Opening Request Opening

Summary Opening Dear Mr. Baldwin: I would like to apply for the position of Front Office Manager at the Four Seasons Maui. I have enclosed my resume for your review.

Name Opening Dear Ms. Walker: Amy Sellers suggested I contact you regarding the Recreational Supervisor position available with the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel. I have worked continuously at the Doubletree Alana Hotel in the area of pool services for the last three years. I am confident my experience with the Doubletree Alana Hotel qualifies me for this supervisor position.

Request Opening Dear Mr. Jarvis: I would like to be considered for a position as an assistant in one of your marketing departments at Sheraton Hotels and Resorts Waikiki in the areas of advertising, sales promotion, marketing research, or brand management.

Request Opening (cont.) Dear Mr. White: Please accept this letter as an expression of interest in the position of Flight Attendant.

Middle Paragraph (s) Create DESIRE Tell them how you are “marketable” Focus on one or more of these: education work experience ability to work with others interest in your field interest in the company responsibilities on previous assignments

Middle Paragraph Example As you will see from the attached resume, my successful purchasing background, along with my interest and education in computer software, provides me with the confidence that I can bring your company the knowledge and responsibility your work demands.

Middle Paragraph Example I am seeking a career that will allow me to apply my interpersonal skills to the fullest and pursue my commitment to serving the public. I believe that the Flight Attendant profession provides the best possible avenue along which to achieve these goals, and that, in turn, I am able to become a real asset to your company as a member of your passenger service team.

Closing Paragraph Calls for ACTION Ask for an interview Offer to come to the employer’s office when it is convenient. Make action easy by giving your telephone number

Thank you for your time and consideration Thank you for your time and consideration. I would welcome a personal interview in which we may discuss my potential contributions to your company. Please telephone me at (808) 669-2201 after 2 pm and suggest a time at which it will be convenient for us to talk. I look forward to your reply.

Cover Letter “Do’s” Address your letter to a specific person Tailor each cover letter to the specifics of each job for which you apply: market yourself effectively Check your spelling and grammar Always keep a copy for reference

Cover Letter “Do’s” Use quality stationary paper Use proper titles – Dear Mrs. Lacro/ Dear Erika Sign in black ink Compliment the company – extend your thanks Thank you for your consideration