Letters

Cover Letters

A cover letter introduces you and your qualifications to a potential employer.  It gives the employer a taste of your writing ability and why you think you fit the job. Look at it like a preview to a movie. If it doesn’t spark your interest, chances are you won’t watch it. Well, the same applies to employers when they read your cover letter, so make it count!

A good cover letter should make the employer:

• Want to learn more about you
• Read your resume to get more details about you
• Invite you for an interview

Here are some tips when crafting your cover letter:

• Check out these
• Print out this  so you know you covered everything
• Customize! Research the employer and job description and tailor your letter in a way that best showcases your qualifications for that particular job
• Always address your letter to the Hiring Manager. If you don’t have their name, call  the company and ask, Google it or search for it on

 

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Thank You Letters

After you’ve interviewed for a job, it’s important to follow-up with the interviewer with a thank you letter. It may seem old-fashioned, but these serve several important purposes, including:

• Showing gratitude for the employer’s time and for their interest in you
• Reminding the employer why you are a good candidate
• Sharing something you may have forgotten or thought of after the interview
• Providing any information the employer may have requested
• Demonstrating that you are conscientious and polite – qualities employers are looking for!

Some pointers

• A hard copy mailed letter is most appropriate and preferred unless you’re specifically told to communicate through email
• Handwritten letters are more personal and can be used to make brief notes to multiple people you met at the interview
• Keep the letter short

That’s it! If you still have any questions, check out this  before you send yours.