Cover Letter Writing: Break it down to make it simple

Unless an employer states otherwise, you should always accompany your resume with a cover letter. A cover letter is really the bait that catches the attention of a recruiter and lures them into reading the resume. It should succinctly state and provide evidence of the skills you would bring to the organization.

Before writing the cover letter, you'll want to take a look at the job advertisement and highlight the skills they are looking for in a candidate. Write each skill down on a piece of paper and brainstorm examples of past work or school experiences that illustrate your proficiency in the area. Now you're ready to begin. Go paragraph by paragraph, and create a new cover letter for each position you are applying for.

Here is a sample cover letter format that helps break down the rest of the letter.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER

Your Name
Your Street Address
City, State, Zip (2 enters)

Today’s Date (4 enters)



Mr. Soandso (Try to find the name of the person hiring)
Human Resources Manager
Company 1
5 State Street
Shelburne, VT 05431 (2 enters)

Dear Mr. Soandso,

Paragraph 1: State the position you are applying for and how you found it. State one characteristic of the company that you admire (shows you did some research). Describe your excitement to bring (2 skills) to the position. (2 enters)

Paragraph 2 (and an optional 3): Briefly give details concerning your background and experience. Provide one or two specific examples that illustrate the skills you mentioned in the opening paragraph. When providing examples, think numbers and accomplishments. Remember-you are trying to show the employer what you skills you will bring to their organization. Illustrate these skills with action/accomplishment statements. (2 enters)

Paragraph 3 (or 4): State that you are available for an interview or to further discuss your qualifications and give them a number to reach you. Describe any items you have enclosed. Re-assert your excitement to be considered for the position and thank them for their time. (2 enters)

Sincerely, (4 enters)

{Here you will put your signature after the cover letter is printed out on nice resume paper}

Sarah Stocker (2 enters)

Good luck!