Cover letters are designed to compliment a mailed résumé and are used to entice the employer to call for an interview.

Note: Be careful not to restate your résumé in paragraph form; however, it is ok to highlight a few key points and achievements related to the desired position.

Your cover letter should be written in formal letter format and should appropriate fill one page. Most importantly, it should impress the employer with your knowledge of the organization – research before you write! Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Header

Select a letter format (block style is recommended) including your address, and date along with the recipient’s contact information. Try to address the letter to a specific person rather than "Dear Sir/Madame". You can find out a contact’s name by calling the organization and asking to whom the letter should be addressed or by visiting their website.

Paragraph 1 (Opening)

• State why you are writing, name the position in which you are interested
• State where you heard of the position. Mention anyone by name who suggested that you apply (especially if that person might be significant to the reader – networking!)
• Explain why you are interested in that particular organization and type of work

Paragraph 2 & 3 (Body)

• This paragraph is your sales pitch. State the top reasons why you are worthy of an interview – why are you the top candidate?
• Think critically about what you have to offer and make that known to the reader. What can you do for them?
• Demonstrate how your education, motivation, and record of accomplishments would benefit their organization – use examples of your achievements.
• Demonstrate in your writing that you have done your research on their company. Each letter should be customized to each employer!
• Keep your tone positive and upbeat. Avoid drawing attention to any qualifications that you may be lacking.
• Always be professional. Do not try to be funny, clever, or too personal.

Paragraph 4 (Closing)

• Thank the reader for his or her time
• State a specific time when you will follow up to discuss the position further
• Express your sincere interest in the position
• Close the letter with "Sincerely", "Warm Regards", "Yours Respectfully"
• Sign the letter with your signature and typed name below

Sample Cover Letter

Thank you letters are recommended after an informational or job interview. Their purpose is to reiterate your interest in the position and to thank the interviewer for his or her time. If you are interviewed by multiple people, it is recommended that you send thank you letters to each person individually. When on-site for an interview, be sure to write down the names of each person you speak with, and even better, collect their business cards. Timeliness is important. Make a good impression and send the thank you within 24-48 hours so you are still fresh in the interviewer’s mind. Follow formal letter format as you would in a cover letter.

Paragraph 1

• Thank the interviewer
• Mention a portion of the interview to jog their memory

Paragraph 2

• Restate your interest in the position
• Mention why you are a great fit for the organization and position

Paragraph 3

• Thank the reader a final time
• State how you can be reached

Closure

• Sign and print your name
• Close with “"Sincerely", "Warm Regards", "Yours Respectfully”

Sample Thank You Letter

When emailing employers follow these tips to project your professionalism via cyberspace:]

• Use a professional email address instead of “yournamebabe@hotmail.com”
• Use a meaningful subject header related to the email’s topic
• Address the reader as: “Dear Ms. Smith”, or “Dear Mr. Jones”
• Refrain from using elaborate fonts, backgrounds or wallpapers
• Refrain from using emoticons or abbreviations like L8R or LOL
• Maintain your professional image by signing your full name at the end of the letter and be sure to proofread before sending
• Always remember to add attachments