COVER LETTER CHECK-LIST A cover letter introduces you by highlighting your interests, education and experience as they pertain to a particular employer and job. The personalized cover letter and resume form a package designed to get you to the next stage: the job interview. While each cover letter may be similar, each needs to be individually written.
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Standard business letter format (see example on Page 19) o One page long (3-4 paragraphs) o It should add new information that isn’t already on your resume, or provide more details about something listed on your resume o Consider using the same font you used on your resume
FINAL PARAGRAPH o
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FIRST PARAGRAPH o
Refer to a specific position or inquire about a possible position in a company o If applicable, mention who referred you to the organization or individual o Also state why you are interested in that company, be specific
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Relate your interests and background to the specific needs of the employer Be specific in stating how your background meets their needs Name your top skills and back them up with examples and experiences Mention specific skills from the job description in your cover letter and give examples Demonstrate your potential for making a valuable contribution to their company
Request the opportunity for an interview or note you will follow up on a specific day Close with an expression of appreciation or thanks Restate your contact information and invite the employer to contact you with questions Convey you know something about the organization and are excited about exploring the possibility of working with them
ADDITIONAL TIPS o
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If addressing the cover letter to a specific person, use the correct name and title of the contact If you don’t have a contact, address “To the Hiring Manager for (Company Name),” never use “To whom it may concern” Always refer to the employer as Dr., Mr. or Ms., not Mrs. Avoid starting every sentence with “I” or “My” Demonstrate to the employer how you can help them and are the perfect candidate REMEMBER TO SELL YOURSELF!