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You will need a cover letter whenever you send a resume or application form to a potential employer. The letter should capture the employer's attention, show why you are writing, indicate why your employment will benefit the company, and ask for an interview. The kind of specific information that must be included in a letter means that each must be written individually. Each letter must also be typed perfectly, which may present a problem. Word processing equipment helps. Frequently only the address, first paragraph, and specifics concerning an interview will vary. These items are easily changed on word processing equipment and memory typewriters. If you do not have access to such equipment, you might be able to rent it. Or you might be able to have your letters typed by a resume or employment services company listed in the yellow pages. Be sure you know the full cost of such a service before agreeing to use one.

Let's go through a letter point by point.

Salutation. Each letter should be addressed by name to the person you want to talk with. That person is the one who can hire you. This is almost certainly not someone in the personnel department, and it is probably not a department head either. It is most likely to be the person who will actually supervise you once you start work. Call the company to make sure you have the right name. And spell it correctly.

Opening. The opening should appeal to the reader. Cover letters are sales letters. Sales are made after you capture a person's attention. You capture the reader's attention most easily by talking about the company rather than yourself. Mention projects under development, recent awards, or favorable comments recently published about the company. You can find such information in the business press, including the business section of local newspapers and the many magazines that are devoted to particular industries. If you are answering an ad, you may mention it. If someone suggested that you write, use their name (with permission, of course).

Body. The body of the letter gives a brief description of your qualifications and refers to the resume, where your sales campaign can continue.

Closing. You cannot have what you do not ask for. At the end of the letter, request an interview. Suggest a time and state that you will confirm the appointment. Use a standard complimentary close, such as "Sincerely yours," leave three or four lines for your signature, and type your name. I would type my phone number under my name; this recommendation is not usually made, although phone numbers are found on most letterheads. The alternative is to place the phone number in the body of the letter, but it will be more difficult to find there should the reader wish to call you.

The purpose of these letters is to:

¨ tell how your job talents will benefit the company.

¨ show why the employer should read your resume or application form.

¨ ask for a job interview.

Tips for writing cover letters include:

· Write a separate letter for each job application.

· Type letters on quality 8 x 11 paper.

· Use proper sentence structure and correct spelling and punctuation.

· Convey personal warmth and enthusiasm.

· Keep your letter short and to the point.

John Kile

Ace Auto Service

1369 Oak Street

Megapolis, IN 01234

Dear Mr. Kile:

I've been checking into auto repair shops in the area to find a garage that has a good reputation and offers an entry mechanic training program. Several sources recommended Ace Auto Service as a reliable garage that uses the latest diagnostic equipment.

I've worked on cars with my uncle, who is a member of the "Tin Lizzies" auto club. I'm doing tune-ups through word of mouth referrals and I recently helped overhaul a Nissan 300ZX. I've worked with computers in school, so I feel I could learn how to operate computerized diagnostic equipment with minimal training.

With my background and interest in car repair, I think I could contribute to the continued success of Ace Auto Service.

I will call you on Monday, December 13 to talk to you about possible job opportunities.

Sincerely,

Joe Clark

6913 Willow Street

Megapolis, IN 01234

(321) 345-6789

Show that you've done some homework on the company (you know what they do, their interests and problems) Try to identify something about you that is unique or of interest to the employer. Request an interview. If possible, suggest a specific date and time.

Include your address and your telephone number.

Mr. Clarence Brown, Supervisor

Norton Electronics

6543 Sunrise Ave. Anytown, US 04538

Dear Mr. Brown:

I am interested in the position of electronic assembler which you advertised recently in the Anytown Oracle.

The enclosed resume outlines my experience and skills in electronics and printed circuit board assembly. I am familiar with Norton Electronics and the quality products you produce.

I would like to meet with you to discuss how my skills would benefit Norton Electronics. I may be reached at 778-4321.

Sincerely,

Rhonda Ramirez

304 Park Street

Anytown, US 04536

Address each letter to the specific person you want to talk to (the person who would actually supervise you). Highlight your job qualifications. State the position you are seeking and the source of the job opening (newspaper ad, friend, etc.)

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