Job Search Assistance
Sample Letter - Instructions for composing a cover letter

 

FIRST PARAGRAPH
State why you are writing, identify the position for which you would like to be considered, and indicate how you heard of the position. (If you are sending a letter of interest which is not in response to a specific job opening, simply indicate the type of work you are seeking.) Be specific. The following statements provide ideas to assist you in creating your first paragraph.

  • Please accept this letter and the enclosed resume as my application for a (Management) position at (name of company, school district, agency). I learned of this position through the Career Services Office at Wayne State College.

  • I am interested in the (Accounting Clerk) position which was advertised in (Sunday's Omaha World Herald). I believe that my interest, experience and education support my ability to learn and be productive in this area.      

  • Upon graduation from Wayne State College in May, I will be seeking a (secondary education position). I am very interested in the possibility of obtaining a teaching position with (Who Public Schools).

  • I am interested in applying for a (teaching position, opportunity in your school district). I (will be, am)Certified to teach (subject or grades).

  • My educational background and experience support my sincere interest in a career in (Marketing).

  • I am interested in a challenging opportunity with your firm, offering training and eventual advancement in (Marketing, Management).·

  • Please consider this letter as an application for a position as (an elementary education teacher). I haverequested that my credential file be forwarded to you in support of my application for the position.·

  • (Mr., Ms.) (Jones), (title) of (school, company) suggested that I write concerning my interest (joining your staff, applying for your opening) (in your company, with your agency).

MIDDLE PARAGRAPH(S)
Your goal here is to show how you can be useful to this particular organization. Describe what strengths you have to offer this employer. Refer the reader to your enclosed resume for additional information. The following suggestions will help you introduce your second paragraph.

  • My educational background, experience in the field of (finance), and my sincere interest in the challenges offered support my belief that I have the qualifications you seek.·

  • During the past four years of college, I have developed a strong educational background and valuable experience supportive of my qualifications for a career in (major).

  • A position with your firm would provide the kind of opportunity and challenge I am seeking.

  • With a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration and Computer Science, as well as experience in various business environments, I am certain I could make a positive contribution to your (organization, firm).

  • Your opportunity demands the kind of responsibilities I seek in a career position. My experience and capabilities to (supervise, communicate effectively, and to see a task to its successful completion) would support my contribution to the overall functioning of your operation.

  • While attending school I have worked as a (department aide, laboratory technician) and have been involved in a variety of (research, analytical) assignments.

  • I believe that my background and experience would enable me to make a positive contribution to your (company, organization).

  • Previous experience in a variety of organizations has given me a considerable amount of confidence in my (organizational abilities and interpersonal communication skills).

  • Enclosed is a resume describing my employment and educational background for your consideration.

  • The enclosed resume outlines my strong educational background and varied experience, which is (compatible with, supportive of) the requirements for this position.

CLOSING PARAGRAPH
End your letter by clarifying what will happen next and how they can most easily reach you. Whenever it is possible, you want to take the next step yourself. Closing paragraph suggestions:

  • I look forward to meeting with you to discuss my qualifications in more detail. I will call you on March 12 to arrange a time.

  • I would appreciate an opportunity to discuss my qualifications in a personal interview at your convenience. I look forward to hearing from you.

  • I appreciate your consideration of my application, and look forward to an opportunity to discuss my qualifications in a personal interview.

  • I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my background and your organization's needs during a personal interview in the near future.

  • I plan to be (in your area, at home) during our (spring recess, spring break) from (April 2nd to April 9th). I would appreciate an opportunity to discuss my qualifications during this time.

  • Thank you for your consideration. If you require additional information, please phone me at
    (402) 375-0000.

 

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