The document provides guidelines for an effective cover letter, including focusing on highlighting skills relevant to the job rather than duplicating the resume. It should be brief, addressed to the correct person, and capture the employer's attention. The cover letter elements include an introductory paragraph, value-selling paragraph, background summary, a statement requesting follow-up action such as an interview, and a statement of appreciation. The letter should have a professional appearance and avoid common pitfalls like poor writing, lack of focus, exaggeration, or an inappropriate tone.

1. The Cover Letter
 The primary purpose of the cover letter is to
acquaint the prospective employer with
your unique talents and skills, and to
arrange an interview to discuss employment
possibilities.

2. Guidelines to remember:
 Do not duplicate what is said on your resume.
 Highlight your resume by identifying how you are
qualified for the position
 Reasons why it will be to the employers advantage
to hire you.
 The cover letter should be brief – limit it to one
page.
 The letter should not be addressed to sir, madam,
or director of personnel…find out who is
responsible for hiring!

3. Guidelines to remember:
 Plan your letter before you write it.
 Adapt the letter carefully to conditions of
the job opportunity
 Capture attention of the prospective
employer so that the letter and resume are
considered worth reading.
 Close your letter with a request for an
interview

4. Guidelines to remember:
 Avoid jargon
 Use good quality stationery and have the letter
typed in a professional manner- never use form
letters
 Special attention should be given to grammar,
spelling and neatness.
 The cover letter should represent your very best
efforts.
 Have a friend, relative review your letter prior to
sending it to an employer.

5. Elements of a Cover Letter
 An introductory paragraph that:
 Is interest getting
 States or implies employment interest
 A value-selling paragraph that:
 Demonstrates your ability to be value adding
 Highlights your key strengths and abilities
 A background summary paragraph that briefly summarizes
your relevant education and experience.
 A statement that either “compels or ensures follow-up
action”
 A statement of appreciation.

6. Introductory Paragraph
 There are three effective techniques for creating a
personal, customized touch in the introductory
paragraph.
 Use of personal contact
 During recent discussions with Steve Temple,
your Manager of Accounting, I became aware of
your concern about the need to automate the
accounts payable function. Perhaps I can be of
help.

7. Introductory Paragraph
 Use of specific company knowledge
 I read the article concerning Champion Corporation’s use
of modern organization development techniques in the
August 2 issue of Business Week. As a seasoned O.D.
Professional, I found this article unusually interesting, and
it has prompted my decision to apply for employment with
your company.
 Use of a compliment
 A colleague of mine has told me of your excellent
reputation as an executive search firm that specializes in
the recruitment of financial executives.

8. Value Selling Paragraph
 This paragraph describes the value that you
can bring to the hiring organization.
 This IS NOT simply a listing of your
strengths. Instead, it lists specific results
achieved and contributions made.
 This provides a key opportunity to market
yourself to prospective employers.

9. Background Summary
 A brief synopsis of your relevant education and
experience.
 Academic degree held, major field of study
 Number of years of experience and a short
description of job-relevant experience.
 Convey that you have the appropriate training,
experience and seasoning to support the position
for which you are applying.
 Keep it brief!

10. Action Statement
 This statement should somehow ensure action
beyond simply reading the letter.
 This should urge the employer to take favorable
action on your employment candidacy or that your
intentions are to call.
 I will plan to call you next week to determine if
you are interested in discussing this matter
further and, if appropriate, to arrange for a
meeting with you.

11. Statement of Appreciation
 Since most employers are busy you should
express your appreciation.
 Thank you for your consideration
 I hope that you will give the enclosed
resume favorable consideration. Thank you.

12. Elements of Bad Cover Letters
 Poor overall appearance
 Poor grammar, punctuation, and misspelled
words.
 Rambling – lack of focus
 Self-focused versus employer focused
 Bland, boring text
 Gross exaggeration – bragging
 Aggressive, pushy tone
 Self-depreciation