Cover Letter/ Application Letter

Business Communication II

Prof. Hyma Apparaju

Section B

Handout 5 Cover Letter/ Application Letter

Do

1. conduct some research on the organization

2. find out name, title, and department of the person you are writing to

3. keep the cover letter brief.

4. keep it free of spelling and grammar errors.

5. format it and type on a standard A4 size sheet.

Dont

1. be unduly humble and avoid phrases like I beg to state

2. boast

3. repeat the information that is already there in the resume

4. forget to sign the letter before sending

Format1. Block format (left aligned)

2. Blank punctuation3. Your complete address

4. Date

5. Complete address of the person you are writing to

First Paragraph

1. Specifically state the position/job you are applying for

Second Paragraph

1. Point out particular facts in your qualifications that are relevant to the position applied for (your strongest selling points).

2. Highlight important courses or special projects that make you more suitable for the position

3. Highlight personal characteristics that are relevant to the position such as your ability to work hard, learn quickly, handle responsibility or get along with people

4. Dont repeat information given in resume

Third Paragraph

1. Request an interview

2. Provide your contact details (e-mail, mobile number) Sign the letter and mention enclosures before sending

Sample:

Dear Sir,

I am writing to inform you of my interest in the entry-level Sales position at ABC Ltd. I recently graduated from XYZ Institute. My courses in Marketing and HR have given me a solid base upon which I plan to build my career.

A successful sales person has the ability to develop and nurture long-term relationships. I am efficient and organized; a helpful people person; and excellent at building rapport and developing mutually beneficial relationships.My enthusiastic involvement in many activities outside the academic circle has helped me in nurturing my leadership and communication skills, which are essential to succeed in the working world.

Together with the cover letter, I am attaching my resume for your full consideration. I know I will make a positive contribution to your company, and look forward to discussing my capabilities in more detail. I appreciate your time reviewing my application, and it will be a pleasure for me to attend an interview with you at your convenient time.

Yours sincerely,