Cover Letters A “cover letter” is a letter that you send along with your résumé to introduce yourself, the position you are seeking, examples of why you would be perfect for the job, and your contact information. Your letter needs to contain 3 paragraphs, each containing at least 3 sentences.

FORMAT Use Block or Semi block spacing P in grammar text. Block: All information has the same margin on the left with a blank line between paragraphs. Semi Block: you may indent each paragraph and closing, but everything else uses the same margin on left.

Letter heading Your contact information: Name Address City, State, Zip Phone address

Inner Address : Contains your Employer Contact Information Exchange City Employer Volunteer Interviewer Exchange City Business 111 Mechanic Street Foxborough, MA Since you are interviewing here, use this address.

Date of letter Salutation: This is your greeting. It needs to be followed by a colon. “ : ” April 29, 2011 Dear Hiring Manager: Dear Interviewer: To whom it may concern: Examples:

The Body: 3 paragraphs 3+ lines each. First paragraph includes: #1 Your objective, what you hope to do, include the job title. #2 List 3 specific character attributes or skills that will help you in this job. (5 points)

I am interested in the Product Manager position at the Distribution Center at Exchange City. I enjoy working with people and seeing them succeed. I have great communication skills, an aptitude for customer service, and am able to stay organized while completing multi-step tasks without supervision. Express your enthusiasm and the likely match between your credentials and the position’s qualifications.

Paragraph #2: 3+ sentences ** Include at least 2 specific and relevant examples. (10 points) >Give examples that SHOW, don’t tell of your attribute or skill. > Include a clear EXPLANATION of how the example shows you could be an asset to a business.

Think of examples that work with the skills or attributes you mentioned in the first paragraph. Example: My past experience as a volunteer at the Foxboro Hospital made it necessary for me to focus on providing quality customer service. I worked and communicated with all types of people at the hospital. Also, as a member of the Student Council at school, I have been responsible for keeping my Home Room informed and represented.

Final Paragraph: (5 points) Thank the potential employer for their time and consideration. Re-tell how you WILL help their business. Example: I believe that my communication skills, customer service abilities, and positive work ethic would make me an asset to the Distribution Center. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Closing: End your letter politely. Correct capitalization & punctuation (2pts) Examples: Sincerely, Respectfully yours, Yours truly, Signature: >Your name Handwritten in ink directly below your closing. >Your name should be typed or printed neatly below your signature.

Example: Sincerely, Susan Jones Yours truly, Susan Jones