Outline for Cover Letters

Applicant's Address
Applicant's Phone Number
Date of Letter

Employer's Name and Title
and Address

Salutation (to specific person when possible)

Opening Paragraph: State why you are writing, name the position or type of work for which you are applying and mention how you heard of the opening or organization. For instance, you saw an advertisement in the KC Star or the position was listed in the Career Center.

Middle Paragraph(s): Explain why you are interested in working for this employer and specify your reasons for desiring this type of work. If you have had relevant work experience or related education, be sure to point it out, but do not reiterate your entire résumé. Emphasize skills or abilities you have that relate to the job for which you are applying. Be sure to do this in a confident manner and remember that the reader will view your letter of application as an example of your writing skills.

Closing Paragraph: You may refer the reader to your enclosed résumé (which gives a summary of your qualifications) or whatever media you are using to illustrate your training, interests and experience. Have an appropriate closing to pave the way for the interview by indicating the action or steps you will take to initiate an interview date. You might state that you will be following up this correspondence with a phone call to their office to set up an interview.

Sincerely,

Signature

Your typed name

enclosure