Good letter writing techniques are as important to your job search as an effective resume. This is usually the first correspondence you have with a potential employer and it should always be accompanied by your resume. Use your cover letter to sell your unique abilities and to highlight a few outstanding and relevant accomplishments.For help getting started, watch this Webinar.

The basic layout and what to include

Your Name
Address
City, State, Zip
Telephone/e-mail

Date

Name of Recipient (include Mr. or Ms.)
Title
Name of Company
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Mr. (or) Ms. ______________,

Paragraph One – “Why I’m Writing”

• Use a “Grabber” Statement/Why you are the best candidate for the position
• State your interest and purpose for writing to the company.
• Reference the name of the publication/web site if you are responding to a classified ad.
• Avoid canned phrases, i.e. “Please find enclosed my resume for the position of –.”
• Never begin a paragraph with “I”.
• Example: “As an MBA candidate with 5 years experience in finance and project management,      I am very interested in …… position as advertised in………”

Paragraph(s) Two (& Three) – “How I’m Qualified” & “Why I’m Right for this Job/Co.”

• Use accomplishment statements (and specific examples) and link them to the employer’s needs.
• Don’t emphasize your desires, focus on how you can contribute to this company with your past experience and education.
• Use terms that the employer uses in the advertisement or that are industry specific.
• Focus on the company, show interest in their products or services and exactly how you will make an immediate contribution.
• Never begin a paragraph with “I” and use as a mid-paragraph sentence-start sparingly.
• Never use bullets in your cover letter, these are reserved for your resume.

Final Paragraph – “What I’ll Do to Follow Through”

• Briefly restate interest/key qualifications.
• Take the initiative and state when you will follow up this letter with a phone call.
• Let them know they are free to contact you in the mean time.
• Thank them for their time and consideration.

Respectfully,

Type Your Full Name

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