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Cover Letters
Cover letters are a vital part of any job application process. The guidelines below can help you craft a letter that is clear and effective.
A cover letter must always accompany your résumé. Each cover letter must be individually written to focus your skills, experiences, abilities, and career interests toward that position and that employer. Do not produce form letters. The letter should be perfect in terms of spelling, punctuation, and grammar because it is a sample of your writing skills.

Basics

  • Length should be one page, three to five paragraphs.
  • Produce on the same color and quality of paper as your résumé and reference sheet.
  • Don't forget to sign the letter and type "Enclosure: Résumé" in the bottom left margin if your résumé is enclosed.
Structure and Content of an Effective Cover Letter
Your Street Address
City, State, Zip Code
Date
Employer's Name, Title
Company/Organization
Street Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear __________:
Should be addressed to a specific person if possible-call for a name, and use "Mr." or "Ms." If you're unable to get a name, use a title (Dear Personnel Director, Dear Manager, Dear Administrator). Also, do not assume whether the reader is male or female by the name.
INTRODUCTION includes:
Why you are writing, the position for which you are applying/inquiring, and the source of referral, if any (make sure you have permission).
MAIN BODY includes:
Why you are interested in the company and how you are qualified. Address skills and accomplishments pertinent to the position and the employer's needs. Show concrete examples of your experiences, and what you can do for the employer. Reference you résumé, but don't simply repeat information.
CLOSING includes:
Statement of appreciation and request for a personal meeting or an interview, and a phone number where you can be reached.

Sincerely,

Your Name (signature directly above it)

Enclosure:

 
Sample Cover Letter
98 Paloma Boulevard
Orlando, Florida 32890
June 5, 2001
Randall Jackson
Human Resource Director
ABC Corporation
12 Robinson Ave
Orlando, Florida 32862
Dear Mr. Jackson:
I am writing to apply for the Assistant Product Manager position at ABC Corporation advertised in the September 8th Edition of the Orlando Sentinel. As a recent graduate from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Marketing, I am extremely interested in this position. My education at UCF has provided me with a solid foundation in marketing, business administration, and computer technology, training that would fit in well with your company's goal to be internationally marketed by 2002.
As assistant manager for Scooby's Appliance Store, I gained valuable experience in marketing development, implementation, and evaluation. My primary responsibilities included product promotion for the store's annual "Summer Blowout Sale," an event that resulted in over $100,000 in storewide sales. This position also demanded strong computer, problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills.
In addition to my marketing expertise, I can bring to this position well-developed communication skills, qualities honed while serving as liaison to the local media for advertisement of store promotions. My six years of industry experience along with a leadership position with the UCF Student Marketing Society have provided me with a well-rounded background in customer service.
I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you about the Assistant Product Manager position and my future with ABC Corporation. I am available for an interview immediately and can be reached at (407) 555-6262. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely, (signature)

 

Susan Johnson

Enclosure: Résumé

 
 
For more information about resumes, cover letters, and searching for a job, contact the UCF Career Resource Center.