The Cover Letter

The cover letter introduces you to the employer and is your first marketing tool.

Short, Clear, and Concise

		It should be typed on white or off-white bond paper.
		Avoid using contractions, informal language or jargon.
		Avoid using "I have" or "I am" to excess.
		Call the department of human resources at the institution to find out who is in charge of hiring
		Get the correct spelling of that person's name, his or her title and phone number. Address your letter to that individual.

There should be three paragraphs in a cover letter. First, there is the introductory paragraph. In this paragraph, explain who you are, identify the position you are seeking, and state how you found out about this job. The second is the main paragraph. Here you should highlight your accomplishments that pertain to the position for which you are applying. Focus on your professional and personal strengths. Show why you would be a valuable asset to this organization. In the closing paragraph, remind the employer in one sentence of what you can offer the organization.

Important Elements

		Request an interview and include a specific day and time when you will call to set up an appointment for an interview. Allow about two weeks.
		Tell him or her how you can be reached including your day and evening phone numbers including area codes.
		Thank the reader for his or her time.
		Check for neatness and proofread several times!
		Keep a copy of the cover letter and resume for your records.
		Contact the person as arranged to set up an interview and be prepared to answer questions on the phone.