1. Cover Letters What is a cover letter?
What is the purpose of a cover letter?
Introduces you and your resume.
Gives you an opportunity to expand on material in your resume

2. What should you include in your cover letter?
Your name, address and phone number
The date
Name, title, and address of the person receiving it
The purpose of the letter
A brief statement of your interest
Highlights from your resume
Mention of follow-up steps you plan to take.
A thank you

3. Research the company and the specifics about the position
COVER LETTER TIPS
Research the company and the specifics about the position
Use terms and phrases that are meaningful to the employer.
"2 years' experience processing magnetic media (cartridge, tape, disc); interface with benefit plan design, contracts and claims; and business background with strong analytical & technical skills--dBase, Excel, Windows XP, Powerpoint."
Avoid using too many sentences that start with "I" or writing in the passive voice
Do not use contractions

4. Spelling, grammar, or punctuation mistakes
Be sure to sign your letters.
Keep your letter short and simple.
Use good quality paper
Your cover letter should compliment, not duplicate your resume
Your cover letter is often the first contact with an employer, make sure it creates a good impression!!!
Do not staple your cover letter to your resume.

5. ASSIGNMENT:
Draft a cover letter asking for an Job Shadow.
Submit your Cover letter to turnitin.com
Complete the peer review in turnitin.com and critique two of your classmate’s papers