How to write an effective cover letter

An effective cover letter

• introduces you to the reader
• identifies the poistion you are applying for
• acts as a bridge between the job vacancy and your resume
• acts as a marketing tool to earn an interview opportunity

Parts of cover letter

Introduction

• Identifies the position you are applying for
• Tells how you learn about this position
• Include your special interest in this position

Body

• Highlight your most important qualifications
• Describe points that may be of special interest to the employers
• Include information on your degree, major, certification and experience..

Closing

• Indicate your interest in having an interview or the next step you plan to take
• Inform that your resume is closed
• Thank the reader
• Closed by "Sincerely yours, ...." since a cover letter is a business letter!

Tips for cover letter

• Check, check, and check
• Keep to one page
• Use standard business letter format
• Center letter on paper
• Use a font style and size that is easy to read
• Sign your letter
• Don't forget to put your resume with cover letter into the envelop!

The content on this page is also based on the workshop of career service office, University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Much Mahalo to their work!

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