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02/1
Build your toolkit
02/2
Build your toolkit
Module 02: Build your toolkit Writing a winning cover letter
02/3
Build your toolkit
structure
top ten tips
You should always send a cover letter along with your résumé whenever you respond to job postings. Cover letters should not be general but specific to each position you apply for. In your cover letter you want to convey that you are: • the right person for the job, • qualified and confident about
your skills and experience, and • excited about the opportunity.
First impressions count! The cover letter is key to
the application process and your opportunity
to make a good impression on
potential employers.
02/4
Build your toolkit
Heading: • Your header style
should match that of your résumé
• Insert the current date followed by 2 blank lines
• Employer’s contact information including name, title, company, address
Structure Example:
312 – 2555 Commercial Drive Vancouver BC V5N 4C1
P: 604.123.4567 E: [email protected]
January 15th, 2017 ABC Corporation Attention: Ms. Theresa Jones Suite 200, 987 West Georgia St. Vancouver BC V6Y 3T2
John Smith
02/5
Build your toolkit
Salutation: • Use the standard
formal salutation “Dear [title. name]:”
• Include a personal title and name
• If unsure about the person’s identity, leave the title off
Structure
• If you don’t have
the name of a contact person, either leave off the salutation or use a general salutation
Dear Ms. Theresa Jones Dear Mr. Brown Dear Jamie Smith (no gender) Dear Professor Watkins General Salutations Dear Hiring Manager Dear Human Resources Manager Dear Sir or Madam
Examples:
02/6
Build your toolkit
Opening: • State your purpose,
how you learned about the job, why you’re applying and your suitability
• Be sure to include the title of the job, and the competition or reference number if applicable
Structure
Example:
Re: Administrative Assistant - Competition #1234567 Regarding the position currently posted on www.employmentworks.ca attached please find a copy of my resume for your consideration. As my résumé indicates, I have over five years of professional experience in an administrative capacity. I have worked for two different organizations in positions that required demonstrated flexibility, focus and diplomacy.
02/7
Build your toolkit
Body: • The most important
part of your letter • Explain why you are
interested in the position, and qualified based on your skills and work experience
Structure • Emphasize the
knowledge, skills and experience that make you a strong candidate
• Use bullet points to draw the reader’s eye to your accomplishments
• Demonstrate your
knowledge of the company and how you can contribute to its success
SEE ALSO REFERENCE • Sample Cover
Letters • Sample Cover
Letter Content
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Build your toolkit
Body: • State your purpose,
how you learned about the job, why you’re applying and your suitability
Structure
Example:
ABC Corporation has an excellent reputation and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to delivery of administrative services to your clients. My key skills and experience include:
• Exceptional Organization and Customer Service Skills • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Advanced Publisher Skills
(Both MAC and PC Computer Savvy) • Professional Demeanor • Detail Orientated, Accurate, Flexible and Reliable • Team Player with the Ability to Work Effectively in any Environment • Strong Verbal and Written Communication Skills
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Build your toolkit
Closing: • Restate your interest
in the company and position
• Ask for an interview, or if you’re sending an unsolicited résumé specify how and when you will follow-up
Structure • Make it easy for the
employer to contact you by providing your phone number and email address
• As appropriate, Mention your availability and willingness to relocate
• Always thank the
reader for their time and consideration
SEE ALSO WORKSHEET • Cover Letter
Worksheet
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Build your toolkit
Professional Closings: • Sincerely • Best regards • Respectfully • Thank you
Structure
Example:
Please see my résumé for additional information on my experience. I can be reached anytime via email at [email protected] or my cell phone, 604.123.4567 Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity. Sincerely, John Smith
Inappropriate Closings: • Best wishes • Warm regards • Have a great day • Take care
02/11
Build your toolkit
1. Customize your cover letter for each position you are applying for. 2. Keep it concise. Try to keep your cover letter as short as possible—
ideally three paragraphs and no more than one page. 3. Address your letter to a specific person’s attention, or a position
(e.g. Hiring Manager, Recruitment Specialist) . 4. Avoid sounding too formal. 5. Use keywords and action words, but try not to repeat those used in
your résumé. 6. Focus on your skills and accomplishments, and
avoid starting every sentence with “I”.
Top Ten Tips
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Build your toolkit
7. Proofread your letter. Make sure your letter contains no spelling mistakes or errors in grammar.
8. Repeat Tip 7. Even one misspelled word could put you in the “do not consider” pile.
9. Make it presentable. Make sure the format of your cover letter matches your résumé, looks clean and organized. Use the same type of paper, header and fonts.
10. Follow the employer’s instructions specific to attachments and document format.
Top Ten Tips
02/13
Build your toolkit
Resources: • Sample Cover Letters • Sample Cover Letter Content Worksheets: • Cover Letter Worksheet Please proceed to Module 03: Market Yourself
Additional resources and worksheets