IBN TOFAIL UNIVERSITY
Sample Cover Letter
Mr. Bob Trimm, Personnel Manager - 2
Ideas Inc.
587 Lilly Road
Dear Mr. Trimm: - 3
Opening paragraph - Use one of the following to bring yourself to the attention of the reader and
make clear what job you are applying for:
1. Summarize the opening
2. Name the opening
3. Request an opening
4. Question the availability of an opening
Middle paragraph(s)- Use one of the following in each of your middle paragraphs to provide the
reader with plenty of reasons to invite you to an interview:
1. Education
2. Work experience
3. Ability to work with others and/or alone
4. Interest in your field
5. Interest in the company
6. Responsibilities in previous positions
Closing paragraph - Use the closing paragraph to ensure action on the part of the reader
The last paragraph needs to help ensure that action is taken. You can ask for an interview
appointment time, stating that you will be happy to come to the employer's office when convenient.
Make it easy for the reader to follow-up by providing your telephone number and email address.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Beare - 4
Enclosure
Important Salutation Notes
1 - Begin your cover letter by placing your address first, followed by the address of the company
you are writing to.
2 - Use complete title and address; don't abbreviate.
3 - Always make an effort to write directly to the person in charge of hiring.
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4 -Always sign letters.
Useful Key Phrases
I am writing to you in response to your advertisement for...
As you can see from my enclosed resume, my experience and qualifications match this
position's requirements.
I would like to point out... immediately upon his return.
During ...., I improved (furthered, extended, etc.) my knowledge of...,
I look forward to an opportunity to speak with you in person. (OR to speak with you
personally)
Cover Letter: Example 1
2520 Vista Avenue
Olympia, Washington 98501
April 19, 2001
Mr. Bob Trimm, Personnel Manager
Importers Inc.
587 Lilly Road
Dear Mr. Trimm:
I am writing to you in response to your advertisement for a Legal Assistant specializing in Port
Regulatory Law, which appeared in the Seattle Times on Sunday, June 15. As you can see from my
enclosed resume, my experience and qualifications match this position's requirements.
I especially would like to point out that I graduated from The University of Tacoma and was hired
directly upon graduation due to my expertise in port authority regulations.
During the four years that I worked for Shoreman and Co., I further deepened my knowledge of the
fast changing regulatory laws in our state. My employer also thought highly enough of my abilities
to promote me to head legal researcher after my first year of employment.
I look forward to an opportunity to personally discuss the position with you. I will call you within the
next five days to arrange an interview.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Beare
Here is an example of a sample cover letter requesting a position. Before taking a look at the letter,
here are some useful key phrases to use in your own cover letters.
Useful Key Phrases
Please accept this letter as an expression of interest in the position of...
I have enclosed a copy of my resume for your review.
...and believe I possess the right combination of....skills.
My current position .... has provided the opportunity to ...
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I would welcome the opportunity to personally discuss my potential contributions to your
company with you.
I look forward to your reply.
Cover Letter: Example 2
2520 Vista Avenue
Olympia, Washington 98501
April 19, 2001
Mr. Bob Trimm, Personnel Manager
Importers Inc.
587 Lilly Road
Dear Mr. Trimm:
Please accept this letter as an expression of interest in the position of Areas Sales Manager
I have enclosed a copy of my resume for your review. I am familiar with the requirements for
success in the Sales profession and believe I possess the right combination of marketing and
management skills.
My current position coordinating two local area sales teams has provided the opportunity to work in
a high-pressure, team environment, where it is essential to be able to work closely with my
colleagues in order to meet sales deadlines.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to personally discuss
my potential contributions to your company with you. Please telephone me at after 4.00 p.m. to
suggest a time that we may meet. I look forward to your reply.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Beare