How To Build An Effective Cover Letter

Where Do I start???

What do you need to do?

Address to a named individual Use "Ms." to address a woman unless you

know that she prefers "Miss" or "Mrs." Use simple business language Provide your contact information

Follow the format of a standard business letter Keep your letter to one page Tailor your letter to the positionSpeak to the job requirements

Clarify why you should be hired Project confidence and let your enthusiasm

shine Make the most of the opening paragraph Don’t use the word “I’ too much

Do not use complicated sentence structureUse action verbs Proofread your letter Sign your letter

Check grammar and spellingStick to one font not severalSpell out words don’t use abbreviationsAlways left justify (everything lined up on left.

Use size 12 font….not smaller

And Always

What not to do…

Send written material with typos or smudgesSend a photocopySend a form letterBe negative or humble

Tell employers what they can do for you Say anything about your lack of experience Include false or unproven claims about your abilities Wait for the employer to follow up with you

Cover Letter Content

What Do I write?

Include the date and your name and contact information at the top of the page

Address the letter to a specific person whenever possible

Include the Job Reference Number if asked to do so

Heading and Greeting

Name the job you are applying to and where you saw or heard the advertisement

If applicable, include a reference to the person(s) you spoke to about the organization

Briefly sum up your value to the employer by stating what interests you in the organization and position

Opening and Introduction (First Paragraph)

Use these paragraphs to sell your skills and convince the employer that you are the ideal candidate for the position

When discussing your qualifications, include words from the job description

Group your qualifications according to themes and prove points by using examples

Organize paragraphs carefully and place the most important ones first

Skills!

Body (Middle Paragraphs)

Mention that you would like to provide more information in an interview

Include your phone number with the best times to reach you, and your email address

Refer to your enclosed resume (optional)

Closing (Final Paragraph)

The End

Now you know the skills necessary to make an effective cover letter good job!