1. Business Letter Format Letterhead (Heading) – Name – Contact information Address, phone, email, fax ……………. ( double or triple space) – Date Spell out the month (double space) – Inside Address Name of “job” contact person Address (if known) Email or Fax # (if address is unknown) (double or triple space)

2. Business Letter Format – cont. – Salutation Dear ???: To Whom it may concern: or Staffing Coordinator: (if there is no contact name available) (double space) – Body of letter 3 – 4 Paragraphs (double space) – Complimentary Close Sincerely, Signature Name typed (leave 4 line spaces between your close and typed name) ( double space) – Special Notation (Enclosures) Anything being sent with the letter; example: resume

3. Business Letter Styles Block – Entire letter is aligned left – Single line spacing – Double line between paragraphs Semi-Block – Identical to Block except each paragraph is indented Modified Block – Inside address, salutation, body & special notation are aligned left – Single line spacing – Double line between paragraphs – Date, closing, typed name & signature are aligned center

4. Cover Letter Basics Three basic parts (paragraphs) – State purpose Job being sought – Introduction Skills Personality & Values, Work ethics & Standards – Closure Expression of interest, invitation to contact

5. The cover letter should answer: “State purpose” – Why are you writing? What job are you seeking? Where did you hear of the opening? – Why are you knocking on my door rather than someone else’s? Why the job listing appeals to you

6. “Introduction” – What can you do for us? Establish your professional image What are your skills? – What kind of person are you? Personality – Will you be easy to work with? – Are you: Outgoing, Friendly, Caregiver, Self Starter, Team player, Eager to learn? Values – Integrity, honesty ……..

7. – What distinguishes you? Work habits – Show up early – Work late Work Standards – Attention to detail – Work fast – Self motivated – Go the extra mile

8. “Closure” Expression of interest & request for interview – Short summary of skills, personality & distinctions – Invitation to contact – Willingness to adjust schedule for the opportunity to discuss the job opportunity

9. Thank You Letter Basics Send a thank you letter after every interview – Mail within 24 hours – Address to all interview participants Purpose of thank you letters

10. Check spelling and grammar!!! Careless mistakes leave a bad impression!