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Cover Letters

Overview

There are several guidelines you should follow when writing a cover letter to a prospective employer. Listed below is the basic information you should include within the body of your letter.

Opening Paragraph

State why you are writing. Identify the position or type of work for which you are applying, and how you learned of the opening.

Middle Paragraph

Explain why you are interested in working for this employer, or why you want this type of work. Describe your main qualifications. If you have experience, be sure to point out your particular achievements or other qualifications in this field. Refer the reader to your attached application form or resume.

Closing Paragraph

End the letter by asking for an interview or by giving your phone number. Request an answer to your letter. Also, ending your letter with a question such as "Do you plan to interview on MTU's campus?" encourages a reply.

Other Tips

When you are applying to a specific company, your letter should have a heading (the contact person and the address of the company ) and the date. Be sure to spell all names correctly (do not hesitate to call the company to verify spellings). If your cover letter is going to be mass printed, it is acceptable to leave off the heading and the date when you print them. Then each individual heading and date needs to be typed on the letter at the time of mailing. In your letter, make reference to any co-op positions you had while attending college. This is especially important if your grades are not a strong selling point for you. Below is an example of a cover letter.

Example

April 2002

Mr. Fred Koerschner
Business Development Manager
3M Automotive Engineered Systems Division
3M Center Building
St. Paul, MN 55144-1000

Dear Mr. Koerschner:

I am interested in a full-time position with 3M Company. I spent two years of high school in Minneapolis and would like to move back to the area.

I will receive my B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Michigan Technological University in May 2002 and would like you to consider my application. As team leader for my unit operations class, I met the challenge of bringing my team together as we earned the coveted "Bredekamp Award," sponsored by Dow Chemical. I also had a summer internship with Cleveland Cliffs during which I worked with thickeners, continuous filtration, magnetic separation, and flotation. I think my school and work experience would be a good match for 3M.

For additional details about my education and experience, please see my enclosed resume. I am prepared to make an immediate contribution to 3M and would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you at your convenience. I am interested in meeting with you when 3M comes to campus this fall for Career Day. You may contact me at (906) 487-2313. I hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely,
Jane Z. Doe

*** Check out quintcareers.com for over 200 examples of cover letters, thank you letters, follow up letters..etc..