the ultimate guide to Cover Letters stand out with an extraordinary cover letter Why A Cov e r L e t t e r ? Cover letters are sent with your resume and serve four purposes: 1. To tell the employer what type of position you are seeking and provide your resume objective. 2. To entice the employer to learn more about you by reading your resume. 3. To showcase your knowledge about the company and/or its goals. 4. To show the employer how well you can express yourself. Typically, the employers will scan your resume and then return to the cover letter for insight on your writing style. A polished and direct cover letter can improve your chances of securing an interview. Cover letters may be written for two reasons. Often, cover letters accompany the resume and serve as a letter of application. A letter of application is written when you are applying for a specific position that is vacant. A letter of inquiry is used when you are interested in employment at a particular organization and are inquiring about openings that may be available. Regardless of the reason for writing a cover letter, the structure is very similar. For sample cover letters and assistance with all of your career development needs, visit the Career Services Center, located in the McNutt Campus Center. Writing Cover Letters - Paragraphs & Content Paragraph 1: In the initial paragraph, state the specific position or type of work for which you are applying and indicate where you learned of the opening (Career Center, friend, networking contact, etc.). Indicate that your resume is attached. Paragraph 2: Explain why you are interested in the position and organization. Indicate that you understand their needs and are the best candidate to meet them. Provide a general summary of your education, experience, and special qualifications that match the requirements of the position. Draw attention to specific skills relevant to the position and cite achievements. Paragraph 3: State your request for an interview. If this is not a local opportunity, indicate when you plan on being in the city where the position is located. You may want to repeat your phone number and offer to send any additional information that might be useful (references, etc.). You can mention your resume in this paragraph, if not in the paragraph 1. Paragraph 4: The final paragraph should consist of a short and simple thank-you. William Woods University | Career Services Cheree Meeks | Director of Career Services & Student Transition [email protected] | (573) 592-4313 sample ~ cover letter October 1, 2010 111 My Street Lane, Apt. 222 Fulton, MO 65251 (Space down four spaces) Susan B. Goode Hiring Manager Child Protective Services 123 Dynamic Boulevard Big City, Missouri 65251 Dear Ms. Goode: I would like to express my interest in the Child Social Worker position with the Department of Family and Protective Services. Venita Mitchell, Dean of Student Life at William Woods University, brought this opportunity to my attention. With the combination of my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and my internship experience with Burrell Behavioral Health, I feel I can adequately develop plans to meet client needs. My attached resume highlights my education and experiences that demonstrate a strong match for your requirements. Working with children in multicultural and diverse socioeconomic strata is a challenge in which I am eager to engage as a professional social worker. This division of Child Protective Services is well known across the country for innovative techniques and effective programs and resources for children and their families. I am confident that my drive and ability to develop relationships with young people are an excellent fit for this position. I have worked with children to develop educational and life skills. While interning with Burrell Behavioral Health, I assisted with development of curriculum for over 35 children diagnosed with behavioral disorders. Volunteering at a community orphanage for young girls in Uruguay contributed to my understanding of legal issues concerning children’s rights and allowed me to become proficient in speaking Spanish. During the week of February 21st, I will be in Big City, Missouri. I will call you next week to arrange a convenient time to meet and discuss how my qualifications are a great fit for your professional team. If I can provide any additional information, please feel free to contact me at 573-555-6957 or [email protected]. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Your signature here Mary Smith Enclosure William Woods University | Career Services Cheree Meeks | Director of Career Services & Student Transition [email protected] | (573) 592-4313