1. Accounting Please get your EFE Manual (pg. 27) Cover letter overview
PowerPoint on covers letters
Example of correct and incorrect cover letter
Exercise to demonstrate knowledge of cover letter

2. You will learn to: The purpose of a cover letter
Why a cover letter is important
The essentials of a cover letter
How to identify the differences between a good vs. bad cover letter

3. Purpose of Cover Letter
Shows employer how much effort applicant will make
Shows how well you express yourself in writing
May be the ticket to an interview
Emphasizes parts of resume that are most relevant

4. Cover Letter Guidelines
Important part of the first impression you create
Paints a picture of who you are
Tells employer what you can offer a company
Always send with a resume!

5. Essentials of a Cover Letter
If anything else:
Neat
Proper Spelling
Correct Grammar
Avoid Contractions
Typed

6. Introductory Paragraph
Identify yourself
Clearly state why you are writing
Express interest in the organization and job
Identify any connection you have with the organization
State how you learned of the organization and job opening
Demonstrate that you have researched the organization
Make sure your wording is creative and catches an employers attention quickly

7. Middle Paragraph 1-2 Paragraphs
Expand on the information in your resume
Identify 1 or 2 of your strongest qualifications
Refer to the job description
Explain how you are a good fit for the position
Explain how the strongest qualifications and skills apply to the job
If applying to a specific position, refer to the job description
Demonstrate that you have researched the organization
When explaining how you are a good fit for the position (and maybe start a new paragraph for this

8. Concluding Paragraph Re-emphasize your interest in the position
Express your interest in an interview
State that you will follow-up
Thank the reader for their time
Will follow up with a phone call

9. Final Tips Paper should match your resume Use one side of paper
Easy to read font
Always typed!
Have 2 people proofread your work
Maximum of 3-4 paragraphs
Sign your cover letter
White, buff, off white, paper- NOT COLORED
TIMES NEW ROMAN-11 or 12 Font
Always include your resume with

10. Examples Example 1 Good! Example 2 Bad! Student Example 1