Cover Letters aka Application Letters Purpose of a

Cover Letters aka Application Letters

Purpose of a Cover Letter o Provides a snapshot of your personality o Conveys professionalism o Demonstrates written communication skills o Highlights skills and experience

Guidelines for Cover Letters o Keep it short – no more than 1 page o Edit before sending o Customize to the employer o Focus on what you can offer the employer o Express career goals o Establish what makes you unique

Cover Letter Format o Your Contact Information n n Address City, State, Zip Code Phone Number Email Address

Cover Letter Format o Date o Employer Contact Information n n Name Title Company Address City, State, Zip Code

Cover Letter Format o Salutation n Dear Mr. /Ms. Last Name:

Cover Letter Format o First Paragraph n n n What specific position (internship) are you applying for How you learned of the position Personal contacts in or with the company

Cover Letter Format o Middle Paragraph n Explain why you are interested in the position (internship) n Explain your interest in the specific company n Mention two or three qualifications and/or characteristics you posses that are relevant to the position (internship) you are applying for n Mention related experiences or specialized training

Cover Letter Format o Final Paragraph n Thank the employer for considering you for the position (internship) n Refer the reader to your resume n Request an interview n Make an enthusiastic statement of your interest in interviewing and obtaining the internship n Include information on how and when you will follow up

Cover Letter Format o Complimentary Close n Sincerely, o Signature n n Handwritten signature Type signature