A Cover Letter is a business letter that you submit with your resume when seeking employment.
The purpose of the Cover Letter or Letter of Interest is to introduce yourself to an employer, explain what position you are applying for, and give a brief highlight of your qualifications.
Preparing a cover letter can seem like another tedious task in an already difficult job search. Completing a letter of interest or cover letter is really important, though. A great cover letter format will help you effectively communicate your qualifications and sincere interest to an employer and will reduce the time you are pounding the pavement looking for work.
Most professional job advertisements specify that a cover letter or letter of introduction accompany your resume and reference sheet when applying for a job. You will want to customize each cover letter and resume, targeting the job requirements listed in the job advertisement. You should express your interest in the prospective position and highlight how your specific experience and training qualifies you for the position.
You may submit the cover letter and resume via mail, fax, or email. It is best to follow up your submission with a telephone call to the employer in a couple of days to make sure they received it. Convey your sincere interest in the employer and try to set up an interview at that time.
The cover letter format should match your resume style (font, etc.). It should have the same heading as your resume, and be printed on the same resume quality paper. The cover letter will be one page that contains three paragraphs introducing yourself and summarizing how you meet the employer?s specific requirements.
----------------------------------------example--------------------------------------
First Last Name
Address
City, State, Zip
Contact # with area code
Professional E-mail address
Address
City, State, Zip
Contact # with area code
Professional E-mail address
Date
Monday's Restaurant
Attn: Mr. Smith, General Manager
Address
City, State, Zip
Dear Mr. Smith:
Please accept this letter and the enclosed resume as my sincere interest in obtaining the position of Line Cook advertised in September 5, 2009 edition of the Evening Tribune.
As you will note from my resume, I have seven years experience as a line cook working in a fast paced, upscale restaurant where I follow instructions and recipes carefully and competently. I am well organized and able to prioritize my food production according to the Prep Cook and Manager needs. In addition, I have an Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts and really enjoy working as part of a team to prepare quality food.
Thank you in advance for your consideration. I will call you next week to set up an interview at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
First Last Name
