What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a letter sent along with a resume to prospective employers. The purpose of a cover letter is to link your resume with the position you are applying for. The letter gives an employee the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and experiences with possible employers. Also, a cover letter allows the employer to decide whether or not the potential employee would make a positive contribution to the position they are applying for.
Format for a Cover Letter
In addition to outlining the skills and experiences of the potential employee, a cover letter should be clear, concise and persuasive. The target length of a successive cover letter is 200 words and three to four paragraphs. A cover letter should also never exceed one page. Contact information should always be displayed on the letter as well. If at all possible, the letter should be addressed to a specific person.
Paragraph One
Reveal the purpose in writing. Get to the point quickly. Paragraph one is the paragraph that should identify the position of the prospective employee. The opening paragraph can also contain the name of any person or people who may have referred you to the possible employer. The opening paragraph should conclude with a persuasive statement that explains why you are most qualified for the position. This statement will serve as a transition into paragraph two.
Paragraph Two
The second paragraph should focus on what you can contribute to the position you are applying for. This contribution should be based on your experience, education and skill level. While this paragraph should concentrate on your skills and experiences, it should not merely be a restatement of your resume. Instead, use this paragraph to focus on how your skills can make a positive contribution to the position you are applying for. It is always helpful to have researched the company and the position you are applying for so you can demonstrate how your skills will be an asset to the company.
Paragraph Three
This closing paragraph will need to call attention to your resume. It should include your phone number and your appreciation to the reader for taking time to read your letter and resume.
Closing Your Cover Letter
A cover letter should be closed the same way as a business letter. Space four to five lines and type your name. This allows room for your signature. Two lines under your typed name, type the word Enclosure to indicate that your resume is also included with your letter.
Source
“About Cover Letters.” Hart Career Center. Illinois Wesleyan University. http://www.iwu.edu/ccenter/students/jobs/AboutCoverLetters.shtml