A cover letter is a letter of introduction attached to or accompanying another document such as a resume or a business proposal. Below are 8 documents that need a cover letter:
This is specific to each position and serves as the introduction to your resume. It also demonstrates your interest in a particular job or employer. Additionally, it summarizes the information in your resume and tells the employers why you believe they should hire you.
Since it is often the first contact with a prospective employer, it should be well-written and concise. The letter should tell your prospective employer the following:
Why are you interested in the organization?
Why should the organization hire you?
When and how you will contact the organization to follow up?
Sections of a Resume/Job application Cover letter
This consists of three parts: Introduction, body, and closing.
Introduction
Your introduction should cover the following:
Capture the readers’ interest.
Tell the reader how you learned of the job opening. If appropriate, mention the name of the person who referred you to the company and/or the job opportunity.
Body
In this section, you should include the following:
Demonstrate your ability to do the job.
Promote your education, experiences, past jobs, internships, and student activities.
Illustrate your skills that are related to the position.
Enhance your accomplishments with details. However, you should not repeat what is in your resume.
Closing
Your closing should include the following:
Your next steps, including your plan to follow up with the employer.
Thank the employer for taking the time to consider your application materials.
Close the cover letter with ‘’Sincerely’’ or’’ Respectfully’’
