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Cover Letters
Most resumes are not complete without a cover letter that introduces you and your resume to the employer. A good cover letter provides essential information not found in the resume. Cover letters can be personalized or generalized, but they should always be written specifically to go with your resume. You can create an effective cover letter by using the following example:
Your Street Address
City, State Zip
Date of writing
Name
Title
Company
Street Address
City, State Zip
Dear Mr./Ms./Dr.:{insert name}
1st paragraph
Identify the position you are writing about and your source of information. Include whether you saw an advertisement or heard about the position or company through a referral. If you were referred to the job by a current employee of that company, be sure to include his or her name and title.
2nd paragraph
The second paragraph is a brief summary stating why you feel qualified for the position. Outline your strongest qualifications in more detail and show how they match the position requirements. As much as possible, provide evidence of your related work, extracurricular activities, and academic experiences and accomplishments. Refer to your enclosed resume.
3rd paragraph
Request an interview and indicate how and when you can be contacted. Suggest that you will call at a specific time to discuss interview possibilities. Thank the reader for his or her consideration.
Sincerely,
(Your Handwritten signature)
Your name typed
The only time that you do not include a cover letter is when your first introduction to the employer is in person. As with your resume, make sure you review it carefully, spell-check it, and have a trusted friend review it. You may want to read your cover letter out loud to make sure that everything you have written is clear and concise.