Cover Letter

Do I have to do a cover letter for my resumé? Well, no resume is really complete
without a cover letter. Also, when you are applying for a job, you are competing
for a job, and many times, doing a little extra goes a long way.

Your Address
Your Phone
Date

Contact Person’s Name
Their Title at Work (if you know it)
Company Name
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr./Ms. ______________:

#1 – In this paragraph you tell why you are writing. You want to get their attention and get them interested in YOU as an employee. You might want to show them that you know their company.

#2 – In this paragraph you want to tell them about your qualifications. Tell them what job you are interested in and why you think you are a good fit for this job.

#3 – In this paragraph you are going to tell them about your education and the skills you have that qualify you for the job. If you don’t have a lot of work experience, you can tell them about extracurricular activities that you are involved in that would relate to the job.

#4 – Ask the employer for an appointment to be interviewed, and let them know the best times that they can reach you to set up that appointment.

#5 – Use this final paragraph to thank the person for their time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Sign Your Name Here
Type Out Your Name Here

Download sample Thank You Letter in Microsoft Word format or PDF.

Cover Letter Hints:

Personalize the letter for the person/persons who interviewed you – make sure to spell their names correctly!)
Check your spelling and grammar – if you aren’t sure, ask a friend to double check it for you.
Don’t mention salary in your letter.

John Smith
209.835.1000
June 1, 2004

Donald Green
General Manager
Hollybuster Video
123 Main Street
Stockton, CA 95202

Dear Mr. Green:

I am responding to your ad in the Stockton Record for a sales clerk position at your Main Street store. I am including my resume for you to review.

I am interested in the sales clerk position but feel I would be a strong addition to inventory control, receiving or shelf stocking as well.

I am a senior at Edison High School and have a 3.0 grade point average. I had my own lawn mowing business for the past two summers where I was responsible for the care of 20 lawns in my neighborhood. I managed my own income, provided great service and was reliable and responsible in my work. I am a movie fan, and regularly rent videos and games from Hollybuster Video.

I can be reached most afternoons and evenings at home, and would appreciate an opportunity to discuss the position in person.

Thank you for your consideration,

Sincerely,

John Smith

Download sample Thank You Letter in Microsoft Word format or PDF.