1. COVER LETTERS

2. PURPOSE To explain why you are sending your resume  Never send a resume without a cover letter, unless you are explicitly asked not to by an employer's application instructions. To entice a potential employer to closely examine your resume (it precedes your resume and mentions that your resume is attached) To present your skills, experience and qualifications as they relate to a specific job posting It is a summary matching your skills to their needs (as stated in the advertisement)

3. BENEFITS A cover letter is standard in the application process. It demonstrates your seriousness.  that you have taken the time to write one  have done your research in regards to the company  have addressed your letter to the appropriate person It makes a positive first impression – a resume on its own is too general.  remember -- the cover letter is the first impression - there are no second chances for a first impression!

4. FIRST Paragraph Never use “to whom it may concern”.  research and find out the name of the person to whom you are sending your cover letter Explain why you are sending your resume. State specifically how you learned about the position or the organization.  the name of the position you are applying for  where did you learn of the opening (newspaper ad, Internet, friend)

5. SECOND Paragraph Highlight your qualifications -- education, experience, leadership roles – anything that is relevant to the position you are applying for.  Be specific and use examples.  Your cover letter should compliment your resume, not repeat information word-for-word Explain why you want the position.  If you can, show your motivation and enthusiasm by demonstrating what you know about the company (its services, products) Describe what you can do for the employer.  Why should they hire you over someone else? State exactly what is enclosed or attached (i.e. resume).

6. THIRD Paragraph Ask for an interview.  I would very much like to meet with you to discuss my qualifications in person. Explain how you can be reached.  I can be reached at (telephone number; email, etc.)…  I will follow up with you next week… Say thank you.

7. FINAL TIPS Proofread your letter for grammar and spelling errors! Have someone else check it for you.  Punctuate properly, use correct grammar, spell out acronyms Be brief and concise; the cover letter/e-mail should be approximately 1 page in length. Target each cover letter to the position you seek.