COVER LETTER

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A COVER LETTER?

To get you an interview!

SOME SIMPLE GUIDELINES You want to stand out!

Make an impression Do your research! Make a new one for each potential employer.

Some ascetic advice 1’’ margins on the side 1’’ to .5’’ on the top and botton Font no smaller than 10pt. no bigger than 12pt. Three paragraphs

THE HEADING Your information

The date you send the letter

The company receiving the letter’s information

FIND OUT WHOM YOU ARE ADRESSING!

Do not start with “To whom it may concern:”

FIRST PARAGRAPH State the position for which you are applying.

State how you heard about the position.

Drop a name.

Address something about the company that caught your eye and made you want to apply.

SECOND PARAGRAPH

Brief summary of your background Brief!

Your skills/qualifications/educational experiences that relate to the position for which you are applying. You want to stand out!

State how the above will help them.

THIRD PARAGRAPH

This is the most important paragraph!!!

This is where you sell yourself and request an interview. Be confident but not cocky.

Tell them: Why you deserve the job. What you are going to do for them.

THIRD PARAGRAPH

Ask for an interview!!! Be confident not cocky.

Give your contact info again.

Thank them for their time and consideration.

Close the letter Sincerely, Sign in blue Type out your name

PROOFREAD!

One mistake can disqualify you!

•Print it out and mark it up!

•Have someone else read it.

•Read it backwards