SR-A1-M4

Your First Name/Last Name

Address

City, State, Zip Code

MM/DD/YY

Midwest Dental

Attn: Hiring Representative

Address

City, State, Zip Code

Dear Hiring Representative:

I am contacting you in response to the Office Manager position posted on Indeed.com for the New

Glarus Midwest Dental office. I will be completing my bachelor’s degree shortly; and I was excited to

find an opportunity that matches my skill set. As you will see from my resume, I have ____________,

_____________, and _____________.

Throughout my academic and professional careers, I have proven my ability in:

• Skill 1 and example

• Skill 2 and example

• Skill 3 and example

• Skill 4 and example (optional)

These examples demonstrate just the beginning of what I can offer to Midwest Dental as the Office

Manager. I welcome the opportunity to interview with you, and demonstrate my other capabilities to

you. I can be reached at (555) 555‐5555 or [email protected].

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Respectfully,

Firstname Lastname

Resume (enclosure)

Professional Cover Letter

A cover letter is a professionally written letter presented with your resume. Often an employer reviews this document prior to your resume. The cover letter is an opportunity for you to express your interest in the company, your value as a professional, and why the hiring manager should take a look at your resume.

The cover letter is your chance to make yourself and your resume get noticed and standout from all the other candidates. It can really help you speak in more detail about your resume (since your resume often consists of shorter sentences in bullet format), and to expand on transferable skills that you would bring to the new position. If written well, it may even strengthen your chances of securing an interview because it demonstrates your written communication abilities.

When creating your cover letter, consider the following tips:

Always include a cover letter with an application unless the job posting specifically indicates not to include one.

Create a custom letter for each position you apply for.

Cover letters should always be one page only.

Cover letters should be addressed to a specific person, not simply to a title or department. Be sure to correctly spell their name and title. If a name cannot be found, simply address it to the Hiring Manager.

Within the content, include a direct reference to the exact position you are applying for (including a reference code if there is one).

Do not simply repeat content from your resume.

Focus on highlighting the skills you do have and avoid mentioning only have “some experience” or weaknesses. Stay positive and focus on your strengths.

Review the cover letter thoroughly for spelling and grammar. Mistakes will turn off a potential employer. You should find someone to help you proofread your letter.

Cover letters should be written in standard business letter format; single-spaced with no indents. Each letter should start with your contact information, the date, and the companies contact information. Use 3-4 paragraphs for your cover letter.

1st PARAGRAPH (INTRODUCTION)

Within the introductory paragraph, explicitly express what position you are applying for, and (if applicable) who referred you. Avoid using cliché opening sentences or phrases, as these typically come off as forced or insincere. Use simple, professional and direct wording. Clearly state your purpose for applying, and why the reader should be interested in hearing more from you.

2nd PARAGRAPH (BODY)

In the body paragraph, describe your qualifications and professional skills. Explain the value of your expertise in relation to the specified position. This is your opportunity to sell your professional skills and abilities, and highlight your recent schooling. Cite examples and be specific. Write to inform, not to impress, and avoid getting carried away with your stories. Always remain humble and professional.

3rd PARAGRAPH (BODY)

This paragraph is a continuation of the body of your cover letter. It’s a great place to summarize your skill set and highlight how you can contribute to the company in the open position, in addition to explaining why it is important to you to become a member of the team with the company. This is where your research about the company will help you to tie your personal professional mission to the mission and the vision of the company.

4th PARAGRAPH (CLOSING)

In the closing paragraph, indicate that you are looking forward to scheduling a time to further discuss the position and your qualification. In other words, you are making “the ask” for the interview. Be sure to include your contact number and email in this paragraph, and thank the employer for their time on consideration.

When writing your cover letter, you want it to be as industry-relevant as possible. This helps showcase your knowledge and makes your cover letter stand out. Try to integrate keywords from the job posting in your letter; however, do so tastefully and do not overuse industry terms or keywords. Incorporate information that clearly demonstrates your knowledge of the industry, your target company, and the potential opportunity at hand. An employer will be looking for a candidate who is knowledgeable about their industry and excited about the prospect of working for their company.