Cover Letters

Human Services Practicum

What is a Cover Letter?

• Cover Letter– A letter of inquiry or introduction that introduces

you to a prospective employer– EVERY RESUME YOU SUBMIT SHOULD HAVE A

MATCHING COVER LETTER– It is your first impression– Highlights your most important qualifications– Emphasizes how those qualifications can meet the

employer’s needs

Why Write a Cover Letter?

• Essential part of the job search• Capture your future employer’s attention in a

few lines• Express interest in the job• Make the reader want to know more• Show employers why and how your skills can

be useful• Demonstrate your abilities

Three Types of Cover Letters

• Application Cover Letter– Applicant responds to advertised opening

• Prospecting Cover Letter– Applicant asks about possible job openings

• Networking Cover Letter– Job seeker contacts member of network to

request information or assistance with the job search

What does a cover letter look like?

• Brief• 4-5 paragraphs• No more than one page

What to include in a cover letter?1. Your name, address and contact info at the top2. Date3. Employers Name, title and address4. Salutation

Other Possible Layouts

Have your address formatted in the same font/style as your resume.

What to include in a cover letter?

• The Opening– Introduce yourself and state your purpose– Mention the position you are applying for– Explain how or where you heard about it– Why are you interested in the organization– State the type of job you are seeking (or use title

from the job listing)• Mention any earlier communications• Mention any networking contacts

Sample Opening

• I am writing to express my interest in securing a __________ position with your company, in response to your job posting in the Commercial Appeal. I am currently employed as a _______________ at __________.

• I am interested in joining your team at the ________________ as a ______________. I believe that my experience with _______ will strongly benefit your company.

What to include in a cover letter?

• The Sales Pitch– Heart of your letter– What do you have to offer?– Why are you qualified for the job?

• 2-4 descriptions of your capabilities and accomplishments that show you can handle the job

• Be truthful

– Refer to the job description or something you know about the organizations activities • Demonstrates initiative and interest in company

– Write 1-3 short paragraphs or use a bulleted list to highlight the qualifications you want to emphasize

Sample Sales Pitch

• As a ____________, I come to you with a solid understanding of (job skills)

• I can offer your company …. • With experiences in (previous jobs), I feel that my

qualifications will match your requirements for the (list new job).

• Through my previous employment, I have learned to (job skills). I recently graduated from high school with a ____ GPA and will be continuing on to college to major in ______________.

What to include in a cover letter?

• The Closing– Ask for a meeting or an interview – NOT A JOB– Indicate how and when you will follow up– State that your resume is enclosed– Include a courteous sentence that expresses

appreciation or thanks.

Sample Closing

• My resume is enclosed for your review. I would appreciate meeting with you to discuss the possibility of our working together. I will call you on Thursday to check on your availibility, or you may reach me at 999-999-9999. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to the exceptional community outreach efforts of the Department of Disease prevention. Thank you for your consideration.

Cover Letter Tips

• Don’t duplicate the wording in your resume• Be positive – BRAG ON YOURSELF• Write clearly and concisely• Don’t use overblown or empty words to describe your

abilities.• Be truthful• Emphasize your skills as a team player• Incorporate specialized terminology• Do your research on the organization/job• Read the letter aloud

Bad Cover Letter

Never express disinterest in current job or mention salaries.

Customize the Content

• Every cover letter MUST be customized for the job and company you are interested in.

• Have a master cover letter then add details to personalize it to match the job title, job objectives and requirements.

EDIT, EDIT, EDIT

• Check the letter thoroughly to be sure it is typo free and information is accurate.

• Writing cover letters can take time• Let someone else read your cover letter who

will give you honest criticism.

Address the Letter Appropriately

• Use Ms. For a woman.• Never address your cover letter “To Whom It May

Concern”• FIND THE PERSON’S NAME– Call the target employer and get the name of person in

human resources– Search the organizations website for contact information

• Last resort, send cover letter and resume to Hiring Manager, Department Head or Human Resources Department.

Email Cover Letters

• If you are emailing your attached resume, a cover letter type message will be included in the body of the email.