Cover Letter Basic Outline

Your Street Address

City, State Zip Code

Telephone Number

E-mail Address

Month, Day, Year

Mr./Ms./Dr. First Name Last Name

Title

Name of Organization

Street or P. O. Box Address

City, State Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name:

Opening paragraph: State why you are writing; how you learned of the organization or position,

and basic information about yourself.

2nd paragraph: Tell why you are interested in the employer or type of work the employer does

(Simply stating that you are interested does not tell why, and can sound like a generic letter).

Demonstrate that you know enough about the employer or position to relate your background to

the employer or position. Mention specific qualifications which make you a good fit for the

employer’s needs. (Focus on what you can do for the employer, not what the employer can do

for you.) This is an opportunity to explain in more detail relevant items in your resume. Refer to

the fact that your resume is enclosed. Mention other enclosures if such are required to apply for a

position.

3rd paragraph: Indicate that you would like the opportunity to interview for a position or to talk

with the employer to learn more about their opportunities or hiring plans. State what you will do

to follow up, such as telephone the employer within two weeks. If you will be in the employer’s

location and could offer to schedule a visit, indicate when. State that you would be glad to

provide the employer with any additional information needed and give contact information

where you can be reached (phone number and email). Thank the employer for her/his

consideration.

Sincerely,

(Your handwritten signature [on hard copy])

Your name typed

(In case of e-mail, your full contact info appears below your printed name [instead of at the top,

as for hard copy], and there is no handwritten signature)

Enclosure(s) (refers to resume, etc.)