Covering all bases with the Cover-letter
The purpose of a cover letter is simple. In the online world of faceless e-mails, the cover letter is the employer’s first impression of you, with the resume equivalent to your personality and being. If the employer doesn’t like what s/he sees at first glance, they won’t even try to get to know what you have to offer. So are cover letters important? Without a doubt. Cover letters should be just as detailed and mistake-free as your resume. With that being said, let’s go make a good first impression!
Paragraph 1: Introduction
The Hand-shake |
Example |
To address the job advertisement is the courteous meet-and-greet part of the cover letter. Introduce yourself. Keep it simple and straightforward, with a ‘hello’, name, and field of interest/current status. Formality is good so try to address the letter to a specific Mr./Mrs./Miss/Dr./Professor. Don’t forget to tell them where you found their advertisement, and what department/position you are seeking. Show enthusiasm to demonstrate that you really want this opportunity. |
(Date)
To Whom It May Concern/Dear Madam/Sir,
Hello. My name is Sarah Johnson, currently an Undergraduate student attending New York University. Your advertisement on Zinble.com for the Summer Internship position for Office Administrative Assistant sparked my interest. Currently working in the Financial Aid department of my University, I am very familiar with general administrative office work. |
Paragraph 2: the Body
Meet the needs of the Employer |
Example |
Apply the asked requirements and responsibilities as your past experiences and skills. Convince the employer that you are qualified for the job. If the ad states that they need someone with, “good writing skills, good analytical skills, attention to detail, use of Internet and online tools like search engine and email, as well as Microsoft Office”, state relevant examples in past experiences where you did all that. Don’t be shy, and sell yourself! Make the employer feel that it would be their loss if they didn’t pursue employment with you. |
Being an International Baccalaureate student in High School, I have extensive practice in research and essay-writing. I work well with people of all ages having experience as a Hip-Hop dance coordinator as well as Sunday School Teacher. I am more than proficient at computer/Internet use being an IT helper at Ridgewood High School for 2 years. I am also self-motivated, hard-working, and detail orientated. |
Paragraph 3: Conclusion
One-more time! |
Example |
Summarize once again why you are well-qualified for the job. Tell them you’ve included your resume and that you hope to hear from them soon. Give them thanks for the time and attention given to your letter. And end sincerely, with your name at the bottom. Do not leave contact information for that should be supplied at the top of your resume. |
Fairly new to NYC, the Dell-White Summer Internship sounds like a great opportunity to involve myself into the community. Enclosed is my resume for your review and consideration. I believe I am an excellent candidate for this position. I look forward to your response.
In advance, thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
Sarah Johnson |
The cover letter is placed in the general e-mail body, the resume as an attachment. Last but not least, make sure there is no spelling or typing errors!
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