SMGT 205
Chapter 4 Notes
Preparation: The Cover Letter
"It is common sense to take a method and try it. If it fails, admit it frankly and try
another. But above all, try something" - Franklin Delano Roosevelt
-Cover letter is a huge tool used to present yourself to a potential employer
-The cover letter is the opportunity for you to introduce yourself to a potential
internship supervisor
You want to:
-Grab their attention
-show your in depth knowledge for the organization
-impress them with your professionalism
-help them to understand what you can add to the organization
-First impressions are extremely important, so you want to make sure the cover
letter is professional and grabs the employers attention
Cover letter should be comprised of:
-3 to 4 paragraphs
-1 page
-should be specific to the organization
12 tips that should be employed in any cover letter
1. Each letter needs to be specific for the position you are applying for. Never use
a form letter.
2. Always make the letter personal and ensure it is addressed to the person
making the internship decision. This will take some research on your part.
3. Provide the contact person's full name, title, agency, and address
4. Place an extra line between the date and address as well as between the
address and the salutation. Use a colon after the salutation.
5. The letter should be no longer than one page
6. 1" margins and single spacing should be used throughout the letter
7. Do not repeat information contained in your resume
8. Be creative, but brief
9. The letter should contain 3-4 paragraphs
10. Three extra lines are left between sincerely and the writers name
11. Use of "Enclosure" lets the reader know there is something else
enclosed- should be your resume
12. Have someone you trust read the letter for quality control
