Cover LettersA “cover letter” is a letter that you send along with your résumé to introduce yourself , the position you are seeking, examples of why you would be perfect for the job, and your contact information.

Your letter needs to contain 3 paragraphs, each containing at least 3 sentences.

FORMATUse Block or Semi block spacing P. 799-800 in grammar text.

Block: All information has the same margin on the left with a blank line between paragraphs.

Semi Block: you may indent each paragraph and closing, but everything else uses the same margin on left.

Letter heading

Your contact information:

NameAddressCity, State, ZipPhoneEmail address

Inner Address:Contains your Employer Contact Information

Exchange City EmployerVolunteer InterviewerExchange City Business111 Mechanic StreetFoxborough, MA 02035

Since you are interviewing here , use this address.

Date of letter

Salutation: This is your greeting. It needs to be followed by a colon. “ : ”

April 29, 2011

Dear Hiring Manager:Dear Interviewer:

To whom it may concern:

Examples:

The Body: 3 paragraphs 3+ lines each.

First paragraph includes:

#1 Your objective, what you hope to do, include the job title.

#2 List 3 specific character attributes or skills that will help you in this job.

(5 points)

I am interested in the Product Manager position at the Distribution Center at Exchange City. I enjoy working with people and seeing them succeed. I have great communication skills, an aptitude for customer service, and am able to stay organized while completing multi-step tasks without supervision.

Express your enthusiasm and the likely match between your credentials and the position’s qualifications.

Paragraph #2: 3+ sentences

** Include at least 2 specific and relevant examples. (10 points)

>Give examples that SHOW, don’t tell of your attribute or skill.

> Include a clear EXPLANATION of how the example shows you could be an asset to a business.

Think of examples that work with the skills or attributes you mentioned in the first paragraph.

Example:My past experience as a volunteer at the Foxboro Hospital made it necessary for me to focus on providing quality customer service. I worked and communicated with all types of people at the hospital. Also, as a member of the Student Council at school, I have been responsible for keeping my Home Room informed and represented.

Final Paragraph: (5 points)

Thank the potential employer for their time and consideration. Re-tell how you WILL help their business.Example:

I believe that my communication skills, customer service abilities, and positive work ethic would make me an asset to the Distribution Center. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Closing: End your letter politely. Correct capitalization & punctuation (2pts)

Examples: Sincerely, Respectfully yours, Yours truly,Signature: >Your name Handwritten in ink directly below your closing.

>Your name should be typed or printed neatly below your signature.

Example:

Sincerely,Susan JonesSusan Jones

Yours truly,Susan JonesSusan Jones