Tutorial: The Cover Letter

Tutorial: The Cover LetterSuzanne GlennBased on Resume Magic by Susan Whitcomb

This template can be used as a starter file for presenting training materials in a group setting.

SectionsRight-click on a slide to add sections. Sections can help to organize your slides or facilitate collaboration between multiple authors.

NotesUse the Notes section for delivery notes or to provide additional details for the audience. View these notes in Presentation View during your presentation. Keep in mind the font size (important for accessibility, visibility, videotaping, and online production)

Coordinated colors Pay particular attention to the graphs, charts, and text boxes. Consider that attendees will print in black and white or grayscale. Run a test print to make sure your colors work when printed in pure black and white and grayscale.

Graphics, tables, and graphsKeep it simple: If possible, use consistent, non-distracting styles and colors.Label all graphs and tables.

1Cover Letter BasicsA. Three key strategies used in the cover letterB. Content of the cover letterC. Parts of the cover letterD. Appendix: Examples of Cover Letters

2A. Three key strategies used in the cover letter

A. Three key strategies used in the cover letter

This is another option for an Overview slide.

1. Value! Value! VALUE!Ask yourself: How are you going to save the employer time and money?TipsWatch how many times you use personal pronouns (i.e. I, my, me)Keep letter employer focused!

What will the audience be able to do after this training is complete? Briefly describe each objective how the audience will benefit from this presentation.52. Sell, dont tellAsk yourself: How are you going to demonstrate to the employer that you will provide them with the best possible service?TipProvide EvidenceQuantify accomplishmentsi.e. Increased sales by 12%

3. Reveal a SecretAsk yourself: What makes me different from the next person?TipReveal a bit about yourselfi.e. reveal your personality, philosophy or character

B. Content of the Cover Letter

B. Content of the Cover LetterOLD CONTENTIntroductionBody ConclusionNEW CONTENTThe CarrotThe CorroborationThe Close

The CarrotA fresh IntroductionExamples of CarrotsIntriguing statementInspirational quoteInteresting factAppeal

i.e. Intriguing statementLittle did I know that leaving my native France to work for the summer as an au pair would lead to a career in international business (p. 474)

The CorroborationStrengthen and support information in your resumeCorroboration example:

TipCan use bullet points in your letter to highlight your qualifications

The CloseSummarize qualificationsInitiate next steps i.e. The CloseThere is no doubt in my mind that I would be an asset to your company. I will be in your area on Friday and will drop by to discuss my candidacy. (p. 481)

C. Parts of the cover letter

C. Parts of a Cover LetterHeaderName and contact information (same as resume header)DateThe day you write the letterInside addressContact name, title, company name, street address, city, province, postal codeSubject linei.e. Re: X job positionSalutationDear Mr. or Ms. if female *Not Miss or Mrs. unless you know the individuals preference)

Parts of a Cover Letter Cont.BodyThe carrot, the corroboration, the closeComplementary closingi.e. Sincerely is most commoni.e. Regards Best Wishes can also be usedWriters identificationYour name that matches the name of your headerEnclosure notationWhen including your resume after your letter, write Enclosure two lines below your name and number of pagesi.e. Enclosure (2)

ReferencesWhitcomb, S. B. (2010). Resume magic: Trade secrets of a professional resume writer. Indianapolis, IN: Jist Works.

D. Appendix: Examples of Cover Letters