By the end of this class you should be able to:

1. By the end of this class you should be able to: • Describe the purpose of a cover letter and its emphasis accompanied with a resume • Use appropriate grammar, vocabulary, and correct formatting when creating a cover letter • Compose a cover letter from start to finish with no grammatical errors and using correct format.

2. Purpose of a Cover Letter: • A cover letter is your introduction to an employer • Explains why you are sending a resume • Briefly describes your interest in a position and summarizes your qualifications • Be specific about the position that you are inquiring about whether it is a internship, temporary position, permanent position, part-time, seasonal, or full-time

3. A Cover Letter Should Answer the Following Question: • WHY SHOULD I HIRE YOU? • Grab Employers Attention • Point out why THEY should interview YOU

4. Class Game

5. Your Name Your address City, State, Zip Telephone number(s) Email address DS Month Day, Year DS Mr./Mrs. First Name Last Name Title Company Address DS Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name: DS The opening paragraph should state why you are writing, how you learned of the company, and basic information about yourself. DS The second paragraph should tell why you are interested in the position. Demonstrate to the employer that you know enough about the company or position to relate your background information. Mention specific qualifications. Refer that your resume and any other necessary documents are enclosed. DS The third and final paragraph should indicate that you would like the opportunity to interview for the position or talk to the employer to learn more. State what you will do to follow-up such as email or call within two weeks. State that you would be glad to provide any other additional information needed and thank the employer for their consideration. DS Sincerely, (Handwritten signature) QS Your name typed DS Enclosure

6. Please see handout Sample Cover Letter

7. Tips for a professional cover letter: • Research the company and the specifics about the position so you can tailor your letter to the needs of the organization. • Avoid using too many sentences that start with “I” or writing in passive voice. • Ex. "This experience enabled me to..." or "Through my internship, I was responsible for...” • Make yourself the subject of each sentence and use active descriptions • Ex. “In this internship, I demonstrated sound judgment and problem-solving skills on a daily basis.”

8. Tips for a professional cover letter cont. • Do not use generic greetings like, “To Whom It May Concern:” • Tell specifically how you learned about the position or company • Convince the reader to look at your resume. • A cover letter is seen before the resume, so convince the employer to look further! • Call attention to the elements of your resume using examples that are relevant to the position: • Education • Leadership • Experience

9. Tips for a professional cover letter cont. • Spelling, grammar, or punctuation mistakes are out of the question. NOTE: • Cover letters are a reflection of your writing skills, so make each cover letter an example of YOUR BEST WORK!

10. Tips for a more professional cover letter cont. • Be sure to sign your letters. (Black ink is suggested) • Keep letter short and simple • Use good quality paper that matches your resume paper and envelopes • Source: www.trincoll.edu/depts/career/guides/cover_ltr.shtml

11. Performance Task Students will be given a sample resume. They will compose a cover letter based on all the information given in the resume. The information about the company in which to send the cover letter to and the position being applied for are included on the handout. Students will be graded on this assignment. The assignment is work 30 points and the rubric is attached.