The document discusses writing basics such as cover letters, emails, and thank you notes. It provides guidance on the key elements of an effective cover letter, including demonstrating your interest and qualifications for a position. The document also reviews email etiquette and emphasizes sending thank you notes after interviews or meetings to express appreciation to employers.

1. Writing for Life
PRESENTED BY PROFESSOR BARLETTA
JANUARY 5, 2012

2. Writing Basics
 Cover letter
 E-mail
 Thank You Note

3. Writing a Cover Letter
 Purpose of a Cover Letter:
 Expresses your interest and qualifications for a particular
position
 Key Elements of a Cover Letter:
 Personal enough to humanize yourself as an individual, but
professional enough to be taken seriously as a prospective
employee
 Demonstrates why you are the person for the job
 Explains how you meet the requirements
 It is an extension of your resume, but should explain your
qualifications and goals in more detail

4. Elements of a Cover Letter
 Header (Name and Contact Information)
 Date (January 3, 2012)
 Employer Address
 Salutation (Dear Mr./Ms./Mrs./Dr., etc.)

5. Elements of a Cover Letter
 1st paragraph-explains who you are and your
skills: professional experience, training and
education, and interpersonal skills)
 2nd paragraph-explains what you can do for the
company as an employee and includes your goals
 Conclusion-thanks the employer for considering
your application and expressing your interest in
following up with the possibility of becoming
part of their organization
 Closing-end with “sincerely,” or a similar closing
and sign your name

6. E-mail Etiquette
 Use an e-mail account you check on a regular basis or set
up an e-mail account for professional use with your name
as your e-mail address (cbarletta@keiseruniversity.edu)
 Address the potential employer as Mr./Ms./Mrs./Dr. etc.
 Write a clear subject heading
 Write clearly and concisely. If you are asking questions,
number them so the employer can identify your needs.
 Use proper grammar and write in a formal tone.
 End your e-mail with a polite closing, your name, and
contact information

7. Follow-up and Thank You Notes
 After an interview, meeting, or internship, you
should send a handwritten thank you note to the
potential employer.

8. Follow-up and Thank You Notes
 Why write follow-up and thank you letters?
 Write a follow-up letter to an employer to ensure that they
have received your application.
 Write a thank you letter to thank the employer for his/her time
in reviewing a résumé or, cover letter, or for interviewing you
for the position.
When do I need to do a follow-up with a potential employer?
Write a follow-up letter if you have not heard from a
potential employer for two weeks after submitting your résumé
and cover letter.