Cover Letter Guidelines

Today’s Date

Your street address

Your City, State, and Zip Code

Lynn Employer

Title

XYZ Company

6789 Main Street

Salina, KS 64088

Dear Mr. / Ms. Employer: (If you do not have a name, call the employer to get one.)

First paragraph: Why you are writing

In your initial paragraph, state the reason for your letter.

Letter of application: You are applying in response to a specific opening. State the position and indicate

how you learned of it. If you found out from someone currently working there, be sure to mention their

name (with their permission, of course).

Letter of inquiry: You are inquiring to find out if there are openings in your field of interest with this

organization.

Second paragraph: What you have to offer

Indicate why you are interested in this position or this organization. Do your research! Above all, indicate

what you can do for the employer. This is known as an employer-focused letter. If all of your paragraphs

begin with “I”, then you have written a self-focused letter. Change your wording! If you are a recent

graduate, explain how your academic background makes you a qualified candidate for the position. If you

have practical work experience, point out your specific achievements or unique qualifications. You may

refer to the enclosed résumé, but try not to repeat the same information that the reader will find there.

This is your chance to expand that information and really shine.

Third paragraph: What happens next

In the closing paragraph, indicate your desire for a personal interview. Close with a statement that will

encourage a response. For example, state that you will be in the city where the organization is located on

a certain date and would like to set up an interview. Or, simply state that you will call on a certain date

and time to inquire about an interview. Ask the employer to contact you if they desire additional

information. Repeat your phone number (make sure this is somewhere you can be reached during the

day or that has an answering machine) and thank them for their time.

Sincerely,

(Your handwritten signature in blue or black ink)

Typed Name

Enclosure (add an “s” to make it plural if you enclose more than a résumé)

Cover Letter Guidelines

March 31, 20XX

123 Main Street

San Angelo, TX 76904

Brian Jones

Senior Employment Representative

Allen, Howell and Jones

1234 N. Main Street

Wichita, KS 12321

Dear Mr. Jones:

It was with much interest I read your job announcement for a staff accountant listed with the Career

Development office at Angelo State University. I would like to be considered for this position with your

organization.

In May, I will graduate with an Accounting degree from Angelo State University. My degree in accounting

and my job related experience at Able Accounting Services make me a strong candidate for this position.

My college course work complements my work experience, focusing on developing basic accounting

knowledge, analytical ability and excellent attention to detail. In addition, I am a very active student,

holding leadership positions in both my sorority and in Beta Alpha Psi.

Enclosed is my résumé for your review. I would appreciate a time when we could get together to further

discuss qualifications for this position. If you need any further information from me, please do not hesitate

to contact me at (325) 678-0099. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

(Your handwritten signature in blue or black ink)

Typed Name

Enclosure (add an “s” to make it plural if you enclose more than a résumé)

Cover Letter Sample

Subject: Application for [position title]

Dear Mr. / Ms. Employer: (If you do not have a specific name, call the employer to get one.)

First paragraph: Why you are writing

In your initial paragraph, state the reason for your letter.

Letter of application: You are applying in response to a specific opening. State the position and

indicate how you learned of it. If you found out from someone currently working there, be sure to

mention their name (with their permission, of course).

Letter of inquiry: You are inquiring to find out if there are openings in your field of interest with this

organization.

Second paragraph: What you have to offer

Indicate why you are interested in this position or this organization. Do your research! Above all, indicate

what you can do for the employer. This is known as an employer-focused letter. If all of your paragraphs

begin with “I”, then you have written a self-focused letter. Change your wording! If you are a recent

graduate, explain how your academic background makes you a qualified candidate for the position. If you

have practical work experience, point out your specific achievements or unique qualifications. You may

refer to the enclosed résumé, but try not to repeat the same information that the reader will find there.

This is your chance to expand that information and really shine.

Third paragraph: What happens next

In the closing paragraph, indicate your desire for a personal interview. Close with a statement that will

encourage a response. For example, state that you will be in the city where the organization is located on

a certain date and would like to set up an interview. Or, simply state that you will call on a certain date

and time to inquire about an interview. Ask the employer to contact you if they desire additional

information. Repeat your phone number (make sure this is somewhere you can be reached during the

day or that has an answering machine) and thank them for their time.

Sincerely,

Typed Name

Enclosure (add an “s” to make it plural if you enclose more than a résumé)

Cover Letter - Email Guidelines

Subject: Application for Staff Accountant Position