Jessica T's Preparing an Effective Cover Letter

Preparing a Effective Cover Letter:

It addresses the specific job for which you are applying for and listing the most important qualifications that attract the employer. This should be used to set yourself apart from others and make you more qualified for the position. It also list interesting details about yourself. Remember that the employer skims over the cover letter before the interview so they have a idea about your experiences and qualifications.

The resume should be written before the cover letter. The cover letter should be three or four key details/points from your resume. They should be brief of about 350 words on how you meet the employers needs not a life story.

Introductory Paragraph:
-Should only be 3-5 sentences.
-Identify the specific job you are applying for. Also include a reference if applicable.
- Refer to the source of your information about the job.
- Brief summary of how you are qualified for the job.

Body Paragraph:
-Details about your qualifications for the job. Include facts, figures, and details about your qualifications.
- Each paragraph should be organized by qualification. (The first paragraph could be your work experience, 2nd could be about your education history, 3rd might be your community service or other activities).
- You can use bullets or numbers to help you emphasize your qualifications.
-Body or any paragraph can be longer than 6 lines or else the reader will become distracted or lost.

Concluding Paragraph:
-Ties in the other documents that may be added in with your application.
-Should include a opportunity for the employer to meet with the you.
-Include a salutation at the end of the letter. This should be directed to the hiring manager so its personal and shows you took the time to find out the hiring managers information.

Reference:
425-426 of the Technical Communication in the Twenty-First Century of the class textbook.