Unit 4: Assignment

• Use a minimum font size of 10 points (maximum of 12) and one inch margins.

• Begin the cover letter with the same header you use on your resume to keep your documents consistent. Make sure to follow the header with the date you are drafting the letter and follow with employer or hiring manager name, title, and company name (address is optional); skip one line and add the salutation.

• Avoid using the salutation “Dear Sir or Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern,” if possible, by addressing a specific person. If you do not have this information, call and ask for the name and title of the hiring manager. Make sure the name and title are spelled correctly. As a last resort, use “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear Human Resources Manager.”

• Aim to capture the hiring manager’s attention, but make sure to keep your cover letter brief and concise. Ideally, your cover letter should be one page with three targeted paragraphs on why you are a direct fit for the job.

– First Paragraph State your purpose for contacting the employer; mention the position you are applying for and where or how you learned about the position or employer.

– Second Paragraph State approximately three skills mentioned in the job description that qualify you for the position (be sure to mention those applicable skills on your resume as well). Demonstrate how you meet the company’s needs.

– Third Paragraph Thank the employer for consideration and state availability for an interview and best means of contact. Indicate how you will follow up.

– Closing Close the letter with “Respectfully yours,” “Sincerely,” or “Best regards.” Include “Enclosure: resume” after your name if you are sending your resume by mail.

• Avoid using abbreviations and acronyms. Use spell check. Proofread the document, even reading it out loud, and have others proofread for you.

• Follow up on any cover letter and resume you send. It is an essential part of the process.

CAREER SERVICES COVER LETTER GUIDE

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Give the employer a snapshot of who you are by introducing yourself in a cover letter. Take the opportunity to market your skills, abilities, qualifications, and work experience. Each resume you submit to a job should be accompanied by a cover letter in relation to the posted job. Do not use a form cover letter. Keep in mind, your job search is about the quality of the search rather than the quantity. So, it is advisable to focus your search around jobs you are qualified for. Below are several cover letter tips to assist you:

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