APPLYING

Throughout your job search you are likely to apply or correspond with potential employers many times. With some of your correspondence you will be creating a first impression. Don’t underestimate the importance of that impression or of the need for professionalism.

COVER LETTER - Your First Impression
A cover letter is a letter of introduction that accompanies résumés sent to prospective employers. It is a marketing tool used to open a dialogue and initiate action. Your cover letter also serves as a writing sample for the employer to consider.

Format and Content
The information below is generally developed into a brief three-paragraph letter.

1. Salutation
   
2. Purpose of Letter
   • Skills (paragraph one - often one or two sentences)
     Focus on your qualifications, highlighting your education, skills, experiences as they relate to the specific job and/or organization.
   • Benefits (paragraph two)
     Indicate how the employer can benefit from your skills and experience (paragraph two). Demonstrate knowledge of the organization by briefly making reference to your company/organization/school district research.
   • Response (paragraph three)
     Request response and let the employer know how you will follow up if you do not hear back.
3. Closing - Indicate enclosures
   
   

RESUME - Your Experience and Skills
Your resume is your lifeline! You are selling yourself to the employer so it needs to be well thought out and updated.

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Finding a Job is Like Earning a Degree


Cover Letter Examples
» Accounting Cover Letter
» Communication Cover Letter
» Secondary Education Cover Letter


Cover Letter Guidelines

* Use a formal business writing style and format.
* Begin with an appropriate salutation.
* Personalize your correspondence.
* Keep your correspondence professional.
* Be brief, concise, and to the point.
* Vary your sentence structure and length.
* Limit the use of "I" to begin sentences. Begin no more than
   one paragraph with "I," but never the first.
* Project a positive attitude.
* Enthusiasm counts! Let the employer feel your enthusiasm
   through your correspondence.
* Select a clear font/type face.
* Use good quality paper. If including a résumé, use matching paper.
* Produce grammatically correct letters and free of errors.