THE COVER LETTER IS A FORMAL BUSINESS LETTER. Your letter should be written in a block or modified block style and should be signed in black ink. An effective letter will not exceed one page in length and will be clear and concise.
THE COVER LETTER SHOULD CONTAIN APPROXIMATELY THREE PARAGRAPHS.
Paragraph One: Should indicate where or how you were informed of the position opening. It should also indicate your interest in the position.
Paragraph Two: Should outline your qualifications for the position. Here you should draw attention to your resume by mentioning areas that best outline your qualifications for the position in question.
Paragraph Three: Should reiterate your interest in the position and request an interview. Indicate to the reader when you will be available or when you will contact them to arrange a meeting time.
Finally, the word "enclosure(s)" placed in the lower left corner of the letter will indicate to the employer that you have included your resume and/or other pertinent information with your letter.
EACH LETTER SHOULD BE WRITTEN SPECIFICALLY FOR THE COMPANY AND POSITION YOU ARE APPLYING FOR. You should never send out two identical letters. Each letter should be addressed to a specific individual. You can obtain these contact names through business listings, the Career Services Center, or a phone call to the organization. When you cannot locate a specific name, be creative. Something as simple as "Hello" for a greeting would be more acceptable than "To Whom it May Concern," or "Dear Sir/Madam." It is also important to verify the spelling of names, titles, and company/organizational addresses.
THANK YOU LETTER. After each contact, it is appropriate to send a short note thanking the interviewer for his or her time and interest. You may also wish to reaffirm your interest in the company and touch on a few points that were discussed during the interview. Finally, indicate how you may be reached if there are further questions or concerns.
This letter should be typed in a business format. It should be mailed no more than 48 hours after the contact has been made. Remember...the more often your name is seen the better your chances of being remembered and possibly hired by the employer.