How To Build An Effective Cover Letter

Where Do I start???

What is a Cover Letter?

When do you need a Cover Letter?

What do you include on a Cover Letter?

What is a Cover letter?• A typed letter that accompanies your resume

when applying for a position.

• An explanation of how you found out about the position and why you feel you are a good fit for the position.

• A way to sell yourself.

• A way you set yourself apart from other applicants.

Cover Letter Guidelines• ALWAYS include a cover letter

• Address it to a named individual (use ‘Ms.’ to address a women unless you know that she prefers ‘Miss.’ or ‘Mrs.’)

• Keep it brief – one page maximum

• Use simple business language

• Letterhead should match your resume with all of your contact information

• Tailor the letter to match the requirements of the position

• Stress how you will add to the organization and why you should be hired for the job

• Focus on three qualities that distinguish who you are (use action verbs)

• Project confidence and be positive

• Proofread your letter and make sure it is free of spelling or grammar errors

• Type the letter using size 12 font and left justified

• Do not forget to sign your letter using blue or black pen

What not to do…• Send written material with typos or smudges

• Send a photocopy

• Send a form letter

• Be negative or humble

• Tell employers what they can do for you

• Say anything about your lack of experience

• Include false or unproven claims about your abilities

• Wait for the employer to follow up with you

Cover Letter Content• Heading and Greeting

• Opening Introduction (First Paragraph)

• Body (Middle Paragraph)

• Closing (Final Paragraph)

• Include the date, your name and contact information at the top of the page (letter head should be the same as your resume letterhead)

• Address the letter to a specific person whenever possible

• Include the Job Reference Number if asked to do so

Heading and Greeting

• Name the job you are applying to and where you saw or heard the advertisement

• If applicable, include a reference to the person(s) you spoke to about the organization

• Briefly sum up your value to the employer by stating what interests you in the organization and position

Opening and Introduction(First Paragraph)

• Use these paragraphs to sell your skills and convince the employer that you are the ideal candidate for the position

• When discussing your qualifications, include words from the job description

• Group your qualifications according to themes and prove points by using examples

• Organize paragraphs carefully and place the most important ones first

Body (Middle Paragraphs)

• Mention that you would like to provide more information in an interview

• Include your phone number with the best times to reach you, and your email address

• Refer to your enclosed resume (optional)

Closing (Final Paragraph)

Your Name Street Address

City, Ontario POSTAL CODE Phone number Email address

______________________________________________________________________

Objective In one line, briefly state your objective (the job for which you are applying)

Date Name of person you are writing to Their title Street address City, Province Postal Code Dear Mr./ Mrs./ Ms./: Make sure you know the name of the person to whom you are applying. Never begin with “To Whom It May Concern”. If you are applying to an internet address and no name is listed, address your letter to “Hiring Manager”. Paragraph one Indicate how you found out about the position and make sure you mention the name of the company. Make these first few lines interesting, so that the person wants to read your cover letter. Paragraph two and or three Show how courses you have taken at school and skills relate to the job. Using bullets is a good way to make these skills stand out. Paragraph four Always include a conclusion, ask for an interview and thank the employer. Closing, (leave space for your signature-remember to use black or blue pen) Type your name Enclosure

Jane Career 115 Cranston Street Waterloo, Ontario

N2K 1J7 (519) 740-6543

Part-time customer service position working in retail September 12, 2012 Mrs. Wilma McGrath Store Manager Old Navy Conestoga Mall 1150 King Street, North Waterloo, Ontario K2K 1S7 Dear Mrs. McGrath: As an outgoing, responsible young woman, who enjoys helping others and is interested in fashion, I was excited to see a part-time sales position advertised in your store window. I believe I have a great deal of enthusiasm and expertise to bring to Old Navy. Some points of interest about me:

I have been told by my teachers I am a good communicator, quick learner and show that I enjoy helping others.

In my Fashion Design course at school I am learning about good design and how to sew my own clothes.

I have acquired good computer skills: MS Word, Excel, Publisher and Power Point, in my Introduction to Business class.

As part of the Special High Skills Major through school, I have received certificates in Customer Service, Merchandising and WHMIS.

I am enclosing a copy of my resume to give you additional information about me. I feel that with my friendly, outgoing personality, I would be an asset to Old Navy. I would appreciate meeting with you to talk about this position. Please call (519) 622-4975 after 3:00 p.m. to arrange an interview time. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application for this position. Sincerely, Jane Career Enclosure

Jane begins her cover letter with her personal letterhead, which can be centred on the page or set off to either side of the page.

Jane includes her objective here, just as on her resume.

If you do not know the name of the person to whom to address the letter, call the store to inquire.

Never address a later “To Whom It May Concern”.

Mention company name and how you found out about the position. Notice how Jane relates her skills to the job. Using bullets make her skills stand out. Include a conclusion Ask for an interview. Thank the employer. Sign your letter.

Rough Copy of Cover Letter