A cover letter gives employers the opportunity to evaluate your ability to communicate. They'll be reading to see: Do you know the proper form for a business letter? Can you string together coherent sentences? Are you able to express yourself well on paper?

Here are some things to consider when putting your cover letter together:

• A cover letter should draw employers to your resume. Don't clutter it with needless facts.
• Keep it brief; no employer wants to read your life's history.
• Tailor it to the position and company to which you are applying; in other words, a cover letter shouldn't be "canned."
• Begin by explaining why you are writing to this person and where you heard about the opportunity. You may want to say something similar to "Your recent Daily News advertisement caught my attention."
• Be sure to say why you think you would be a good match for the position. If the advertisement lists several traits or skills the employer wants to see in job applicants, refer to those skills in your letter and say how you exemplify them. Mention traits that will set you apart from other candidates.
• Refer the employer to your resume. For example, "you can see from my resume that I have the experience you are looking for" may be a good way to do so. Experiment with your own wording.
• Remember to sign your cover letter.
• Note "enclosure" or "enc." several lines after your signature because your resume is enclosed.

3800 W. 80th St. Suite 880 Minneapolis, MN 55431

| Home | About Us | Job Tips | Career Opps | Contact Us | Online Resume |