Washington State Department of Services for the Blind

General Format for Cover Letters*

Your Street

City, State, Zip Code

Date

Name of Employer/Recruiter/Human Resources Manager

Title of Employer/Recruiter/Human Resources Manager

Name of Company

Street Address or PO Box Number

City, State, Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms./Dr._____:

Opening Paragraph. Attract attention. Clearly state the reason for writing, naming the position or type of work for which you are applying. Identify how you heard of the opening or how the employer’s name was obtained.

Second Paragraph. State you reason for writing this particular employer. Specify concrete reasons for the type of work you desire. Highlight your skills, your goals, and/or how your education, experiences, and other qualifications support your capacity to succeed in this job (in this organization). Describe what you can do for the employer rather than what the employer can do for you. Significant accomplishments can be noted, but the résumé should not be repeated any more than absolutely necessary. Basically, you are emphasizing your key qualifications – selling yourself – elaborating on background areas which will attract the employer for the specific career field or job you want.

Closing Paragraph. Restate your interest by indicating your availability for a personal interview. Either suggest a time or state your willingness to come at the convenience of the individual employer. Indicate that your résumé is enclosed.

Sincerely yours,

(signature)

Full name Typed

Enclosure

Return to Job Seeker's Handbook Table of Contents