Your Address
Your Phone Number
Your Email Address
Today's Date
Contact Name
Contact Title
Company Name
Company Address
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name of Contact:
Opening Paragraph: The opening should
state your reason for writing in one to four sentences. Here,
you must indicate the division and position you are interested in
obtaining. Reference how you learned of the position.
If you received the contact's name from a referral, mention that in
your opening. If this is a target mailing, you must capture
the reader's attention by highlighting something you have recently
read, learned or heard about the company and how your
accomplishments can make a difference for this company.
Body Paragraph(s): This is the heart of
the letter where you are expected to sell yourself to the employer
by illustrating how your past performance has prepared you for this
position. Do not simply repeat what's on your resume.
Rather, summarize the most relevant information and incorporate any
qualifications that may not be apparent on your resume. The
body is also where you can detail your interest in the position or
organization.
Closing Paragraph: The closing should
reiterate your eagerness to arrange an interview with the
firm. Here, you may also include your salary history (your
pay in your previous or current job) or expectations (your expected
pay in your future job) if asked by the employer. Be
assertive and indicate you will contact the employer next week to
arrange an appointment.
Sincerely,
Your Signature
Type Your Name
For letter samples, please see a Career
Advisor.