How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

(Describe the Perfect Job Candidate--You!) By Alice Feathers, M.A. TESOL, Professional Editor and Writer Advertise your unique qualifications that no one else can offer by writing an effective cover letter! Make yourself stand out from all the other job seekers, so your potential employer will move on to the next step--reading your resume! Get your foot in the door [...]

Respond to a job advertisement and request an interview

Letter #1: I am responding to your advertisement in the Doe Post inviting applications for a position in chemical engineering. I am currently a research chemist for Johnson Chemical Corporation where I enjoy my work, but I would prefer participating in your research program on new plastics. I have worked on a number of projects dealing [...]

Respond to a request for your resume

Letter #1: In response to your request for additional information, I have completed the personal information form you sent and have enclosed a copy of my resume. I have been Dr. John Doe's executive medical secretary for the past two years. My responsibilities include transcribing medical records, billing insurance, making appointments, greeting patients, scheduling hospital tests, [...]

Use networking in a job search

Letter #1: I appreciated the opportunity to get acquainted with you at the spring linguistics conference in Springfield. Thank you for sending me a copy of your recent paper. Recent financial problems in our state are resulting in the board of regents' elimination of programs they consider to be too costly. It appears that our department will [...]

Write a cover letter to introduce a resume

Letter #1: In response to your employment listing in the (Name of Newspaper), I am writing today to submit my resume in application for the position of (Name of Position). As my resume demonstrates, my previous work experiences have enabled me to gain a deep and diverse understanding of the mindset and skills needed to succeed as [...]

Write a letter in a job search

Letter #1: While currently searching for a challenging opportunity working as a (Name of Position), I have been researching for information about the strongest (Name of Industry) companies in the region. Your organization is by far the most fascinating and attractive group. I am writing today, therefore, to express my excitement about the purpose and practice of [...]

Request a raise or promotion

Letter #1: According to the notes I took during my six-month review, I was entitled to a raise last pay period, provided I brought in the Doe account, and I have done so. Doe Inc. signed a contract for services on March 1. Accordingly, I am requesting the salary raise promised in my interview. Thank you [...]

Respond to a job offer, negotiating a higher salary

Letter #1: Thank you for extending me the offer of employment as the Director of Human Resources for the Doe Company. The opportunity to talk to you and the other executives has been enlightening and enjoyable. The company's growth plans are exciting and challenging. After considerable thought, I am concerned about the salary you offered. It is [...]

Respond to a job offer, negotiating conditions

Letter #1: Thank you for offering me the position of Director of Engineering for Doe. I would be delighted to affiliate myself with such a dynamic and innovative company. When we discussed the position, you mentioned the opportunities for profit-sharing and stock options. Participating in these is very important to me but I did not see any [...]

Write a letter to accompany a contribution to a good cause

Letter #1: In memory of my deceased grandfather, John Doe, our family wishes to donate $20,000 toward the building of your new library. Throughout his years, Grandfather stressed the importance of education and reading to all of his children and grandchildren. We feel that this is what he would have wanted us to do with the money [...]