Creating a
COVER LETTER
Cover Letter Writing
Types & Examples
Student Employment Services
Appleton Campus – Room E135
(920) 735-JOBS (5627)
(920) 231-JOBS (5267)
www.fvtc.edu/ses
[email protected]
Cover Letter Writing
A cover letter is a critical part of your resume packet. An effectively written letter can
mean the difference between obtaining an interview or not.
The Purposes of a Cover Letter
The cover letter’s purposes are to:
 introduce you to an employer for the purpose of employment;
 match your professional qualifications, skills, and accomplishments to the
position’s requirements;
 allow you to market yourself by positively presenting information about you;
 demonstrate your written communication skills; and
 show your professional personality.
The Two Forms of a Cover Letter
Generally, there are two forms.
1. An application cover letter – This is a direct response to a current position
opening in which you address specifics about the job and list your qualifications
and accomplishments related to that position.
2. An inquiry cover letter – This is a direct response to your interest in the company
and possible current or future openings in which you list your qualifications and
accomplishments.
Cover Letter Content Format
The content format includes seven parts. Refer to the cover letter sample to more
clearly view these parts.
1. Heading – The preferred heading option is to copy and paste your resume
heading onto your cover letter to create a “matched set” appearance. Another
type of heading includes your 2-line address followed by the date. The date
should be the same date as the date you plan to mail your resume and cover
letter.
2. Inside Address – This includes the name of the person to whom your cover
letter is being sent, his or her position, company name, and address. The
position ad may give you this information, but it may not. Take the initiative by
calling the company to confirm the name, spelling, and position title.
3. Salutation – This is brief and formal, preferably Dear Ms.___: or Dear Mr. ___:
Use the last name only. Current business writing etiquette suggests NOT using
Mrs. or Miss. A comma after the salutation is also acceptable. If you are unable
to obtain a name, write Dear Human Resource Director. Do NOT use the
impersonal To Whom It May Concern.
4. Body Paragraphs – These paragraphs comprise the major content of your
cover letter. There are usually four paragraphs as specifically described here.
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 1st Paragraph
− Identify the position you are applying for and how you found out about it.
If you are writing an inquiry cover letter, identify your employment goal
and refer to some complimentary research information about the
company as a rationale for your letter.
− Use language that results in favorable attention.
− Do NOT mention personal problems or why you are leaving your current
job.
− Provide a transition into your next paragraph.
 2nd Paragraph
− Convince the employer that you fit the job and the company.
− Specify the job requirements and how you’re qualified for each.
− Refer to your resume and emphasize your experience and most
significant qualifications and accomplishments.
− Sell yourself using positive, flag-waving language without overdoing it.
− Include your specific self-management and transferable skills that would
apply to the job.
− Consider using bullets to make a list readable and noticeable.
− Do NOT be generic. Your cover letter should specifically reflect you.
 3rd Paragraph
− Ask for an interview, either for the specific position or for an informational
interview.
− Use polite language and continue to be positive about yourself.
− Refer to a positive future by saying that you look forward to hearing from
that person soon or to discussing possible future opportunities with him or
her.
− Consider being assertive by saying that you will contact the company
within a week to inquire about the status of available position, the
company’s needs, the interview schedule, or whatever is appropriate for
your purpose.
 4th Paragraph
− Say thank you for considering your resume.
5. Closing – Use Sincerely, or Sincerely yours, and type it three lines below the
last paragraph.
6. Signature – Type your name five lines below the closing, making certain that
you use the complete name that you used in your resume heading. Don’t forget
to sign your letter.
7. Enclosure(s) –This refers to your resume and other possible documents you
include in your resume packet. Type the word below your typed signature.
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Application Cover Letter Example
Elena Gonzalez
1234 First Avenue, Appleton, WI 54911
(920)555-5555 [email protected]
January 18, 2012
Ms. Karen Smith
Human Resource Manager
Humana
1100 Employers Road
Green Bay, WI 54344
Dear Ms. Smith:
I am writing to introduce myself as an enthusiastic candidate for the position of Claims Cost Management Specialist
advertised on the Humana job web site. The enclosed resume illustrates how my qualifications are an excellent
match for the position’s requirements.
Position Requirements
My qualifications
▪
Associate Degree in related
area
▪
Both Associate Degree in Accounting and Medical Business
Specialist Certification with continued training in medical
insurance.
▪
Customer service skills
▪
2 years of customer service experience in medical office
patiently servicing adults of all backgrounds; 2 additional years
serving customers within retail and food industries.
▪
Working knowledge of various
insurance plans and
accounting
▪
Verified, reviewed, and billed insurance claims for 4 physicians;
Assisted in accounts payable and receivable for retail business;
practiced all areas of accounting in coursework for Financial
Accounting and Cost Accounting.
▪
Analyzing and problemsolving
▪
Analyzed hundreds of claims, payments, and reviews; Resolved
patient tracking information problems by creating new
spreadsheet; Developed new take-out procedures for restaurant.
▪
Communication skills
▪
Developed excellent phone, verbal and listening skills with
customers; maintained good rapport with patients, physicians,
supervisors, and staff. Produced quality original written
documents using good computer skills.
I would like to bring my solid qualifications and initiative to Humana and assist the company in meeting current and
future goals. A personal interview would be appreciated. I will contact you after the posted application deadline to
discuss that possibility.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to our discussion.
Sincerely,
Elena Gonzalez
Enclosure
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Inquiry Cover Letter Example
Sara K. Smith
123 Pleasant Drive
Appleton, WI 54915
920-555-5555 Home
920-999-9999 Cell
April 16, 2012
Ms. Melissa Burton
Human Resource Manager
Mercy Medical Health Clinic
500 S. Oak Road
Oshkosh, WI 54904
Dear Ms. Burton:
In May 2010, I will graduate from Fox Valley Technical College with a Technical Diploma in Practical
Nursing. I am excited to be seeking my personal and professional goal of a challenging career in nursing
to serve the patients and physicians within an Oshkosh medical clinic. My research indicates this is an
exciting time at your new and fast growing facility. I believe my training and experience would help
meet your expanding needs.
Allow me to highlight the excellent qualifications and contributions I can bring to your healthcare
facility:
 6 years CNA experience with proven success in elder and disabled client care in three previous
health care positions resulting in four outstanding supervisory evaluations while completing intense
workloads under pressure.
 Trusted as acting CNA manager at a community based residential facility for the past 2 years
 Completion of two 9-week practical nursing clinical rotations with clinic and hospital settings
 Excellent patient relations, time-management, interpersonal and communication skills, developed
through work experiences and rigorous clinical studies, resulting in high evaluations.
 Ability to perform both independently and as part of a team, being personable yet focused in an
effort to contribute toward cooperative working relationships among management, physicians, and
support staff.
I would welcome a personal interview to further explore the merging of my education, experience, and
ambition with your program goals. I will contact you within the next week to discuss any needs you may
have in the future.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely yours,
Sara K. Smith
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