Cover Letter

A cover letter should accompany each resume. It should be brief, businesslike, and addressed to a specific person. The purpose of a cover letter is to serve as an introduction to the resume. It should contain where you heard of the position, when you will be available for employment, why you are qualified for the position, and should end with a request for an interview.

• A resume should never travel alone. Always send a cover letter with a resume.
• Use the same paper as you did on the resume and the reference page. Also, use the same header. This will make your information look professional and organized.
• Keep the cover letter short and to the point. Include information that would not be included on the resume, but would be relevant to the available position.
• At the end of the resume, thank the individual for their time, and let them know you will be in touch. Never tell them you will wait for their call. More than likely, you will be waiting a long time.

Most cover letters consist of two to four paragraphs, in which you do the following:

• State that you would like to work for the company, making sure to mention the company by name. This personalizes your letter and resume. Also, mention where you heard of the position.
• Tell them what you want to do for their company. Give specific examples and try not to reiterate what was said on your resume.
• Tell them how their organization will benefit from you and your skills.
• Request an interview. Let them know when you will be available to speak to them and that you will be in touch to verify receipt of the resume.
• Thank them for their consideration.