A cover letter is a document that introduces you to employers and gets them ready to read your resume. The document may also be referred to as a letter of application. Regardless of what it is called, one should always accompany a resume. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Research the Employer. Make sure you know some information about who you are going to work for. Try to integrate that knowledge into your cover letter.
• Know Your Interests and Skills. Not only know them, understand why they would be useful to the employer.
• Use the sample cover letters to help you get started
  • Letter of Inquiry
  • Response to Known Position # 1
  • Response to Known Position # 2
  • Interview follow-up letter
  • Response to a job offer
  • Letter of resignation

Cover Letter Writing Hints

• Avoid overusing the word "I." More emphasis should be placed on the organization and how you can help them.
• Highlight your most relevant qualifications. Use your cover letter to make yourself look great, but at the same time talk about the skills that will help with the employer's needs.
• Explain why you want to work for them. Do you want to work for this employer because of its reputation, financial standing, products, personnel, or location? Tell them why you like them, flatter them a little!
• Don't forget to give contact information. Always remember to tell them when is the best time to contact you. Or even better tell them that you will contact them and give an approximate time frame of the contact.

Stop into the Career Discovery Center to get help and review samples and make an appointment with a Career Associate to have your cover letter reviewed.