Cover Letters

The cover letter should identify the job you're looking for, your applicable skills and experiences, your company and industry knowledge, and any important information you could not include in your resume.

Cover letter writing tips:

Always use the cover letter to let the employer know how you would benefit the organization; do not just use it to state that you're looking for a job.
As with your resume, keep it simple and to the point. Do not include any "filler" or personal anecdotes.
Whenever possible, address it to the hiring manager. Do the necessary research if you know the company name but not the person's name.
Before you begin writing, develop a strategy. Decide what you can focus on that would make you a more appealing candidate.
Do not write more than one page.
Conclude it by stating your interest in meeting the recipient to discuss ways you could contribute to the organization.
Carefully revise it, checking for any spelling errors, typos, or formatting inconsistencies. Never misspell the recipient's or the organization's name.
Always get a colleague's opinion. Make sure you're sending out the best possible written representation of you.
The main thing to remember about cover letters is that they will frequently be read very quickly. They should communicate all your important skills and experiences intelligently and simply, while showing a respect for the reader's time. Consult on-line resources if you are at all unsure about standard formatting for these documents.

Sample Cover Letter

642 Bolsover Rd.
Philadelphia, PA 12345
(555) 555-1212

August 17, 2000

Mr. John Doe
Hiring Manager
ABC Company, Inc.
3210 Main St.
Philadelphia, PA 23456

Dear Mr. Doe:

Please consider me for the position of Senior Service Consultant. I am very interested in this opportunity, I have the general background you're looking for, and I believe I could make an immediate contribution to your organization.

You indicated a need for a team player with strong computer skills, leadership potential, and five years experience in Customer Service. As my resume indicates, I focused on English and Theatre in college, which provided a foundation for the communication skills so important for service work. My desire to help people led to a job as a YMCA youth counselor, where I developed leadership skills by coordinating group activities and overseeing the Running Start summer education program in 1995. I am currently a bilingual CSR with Good Life Insurance. I have extensive experience with Word, Excel, and ACT!

I am confident and eager to apply my work ethic, skills, and experience at ABC. I would welcome the opportunity to interview with you and further discuss what I can offer to your organization. I will call your office in a week to follow up on my application and provide any additional information you may seek. Thank you for your attention; I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,