Your Street Address
City, State Zip Code
Month Day, Year
Mr./Ms./Dr. Full Name
Title
Name of Organization
Street or P.O. Box Address
City, State Zip
Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name:
Opening Paragraph – Tell why you are writing. Name the position, field or general career area about which you are inquiring or applying. Tell how you heard of the opening, the company or organization (mention a contact name, if you have one) and basic information about yourself. Highlight a reason you are applying, something about them or something about your past experience that is important for the position.
Middle Paragraph – Mention the qualifications you believe are of greatest interest to the employer. If you have related experience or specialized training, point it out. Do not repeat what is on your résumé, but customize your skills and experiences to the employer’s needs. This is the place to highlight your skills and abilities to a potential employer. Document your claims with statements to show evidence of your skills. (Examples are key!) Tie your past experiences to what the employer is looking for and give examples of how you've done what they are looking for. End the paragraph with a statement indicating your confidence in your ability to perform in the position.
Closing Paragraph – Refer the reader to your enclosed résumé or application. If this is a letter of inquiry, request an application or other informational materials and an interview. If this is a letter of application, state what you will do to follow up, such as telephone the employer within two weeks to check on the status of the application (optional- but make sure to do follow up). Include your phone number and state that you would be glad to provide any additional information needed. Thank the employer for their consideration of your application/résumé.
Sincerely,
(Your handwritten signature)
Your typed name
Enclosure(s)
