Never
send a resume without a cover letter unless
the employer specifically states “no
cover letter.” The purpose of your
cover letter is to introduce your resume
and highlight aspects of your experience
and skills that are most relevant to the
position you are seeking. Your cover letter
will be much more effective if written for
a particular employer and position. Researching
each employer and position allows you to
personalize the letter and draw direct connections
between your qualifications and the job
requirements.
Your letter should provide the employer
with the following information:
-
Why are you writing?
-
Why are you interested in the organization
and/or job?
-
Why would the employer be interested in
you?
-
What is your next step?
Provide
the reader with the answers to these questions
in three main sections:
Introduction
Introduce yourself and why you are writing
to the employer. Answer the reader’s
question: “Why am I reading this letter?”
Name the position or field you are interested
in, how you learned of the opening or organization,
and, if appropriate, who referred you. In
a sentence or two, explain what skills make
you the best candidate for the position.
Body
In one or two succinct paragraphs, match
your background to the experience and skill
requirements of the job position. It is
best to summarize your qualifications and
give specific examples. Expand on your experience
that relates to the job and the employer.
Also, identify any transferable skills,
strengths, accomplishments, and results.
Closing
This paragraph should be brief. Simply summarize
the letter, and indicate that you have enclosed
your resume. Make sure you state what the
next step is. End the letter with an active
statement, such as an offer to contact the
employer within a specific period of time,
usually one to two weeks. Always confirm
how they may reach you, either by phone
or email. Close the letter by thanking the
reader for their time and consideration.
Don’t forget to sign your letter.
By
CESER, the Center for Employment Education
and Research
