Cover Letters and Thank You Notes
Cover Letter
A cover letter is an important tool that will help one emphasize key skills and qualities about one’s self to potential future employers. Cover letters may not always be necessary, however if it is an option for submission then one should be sent with your resume. This letter is a chance to go beyond your resume and explain what type of individual you really are.
Tips for writing a cover letter:
- Deliver an opening line that catches the reader’s attention.
- Research your potential employer(s).
- Know what you are getting into.
- Find out what the company mission is and explain why your skills and background make you a good fit.
- Think what you can do for the company, not what the company can do for you.
- This will also be beneficial in the interview when you are asked about why you want to work for this company.
- Refresh the letter for every new position for which you apply.
- Why are you a good fit for this company?
- This is a time to sell yourself and your skills.
- What are you good at?
- Why are you the best candidate?
- Do not overly embellish your skills. Employers will ask you to explain everything you mention in greater detail.
- This is a time to sell yourself and your skills.
- Do not apologize for lack of experience.
- Instead, focus on what you have done and what you would like to do in the future.
Links for more Information on cover letters and samples:
- Refer to the Channel Islands Career Development page for examples of cover letters:
- Aerotek is also a great source for insight into creating cover letters tailored for specific career paths as well as when and where to use a cover letter:
Thank You Note/Thank You Note Follow Up
A thank you letter is another way in which you can remind your future employer why you are the best candidate for their company. You should always send a thank you letter or message depending on the form of interview you had.
Tips when sending a thank you letter:
- After an interview, send a thank you letter/email, or in cases of phone interviews, a thank you message.
- It does not have to be long letter; a brief note is acceptable.
- Send the letter within a few days of your interview.
- This is another opportunity to get your foot in the door.
- Remind your potential employer of your strengths and why you are the best candidate for the job.
- Bring up topics you feel you did not adequately explain during your interview.
- Topics you may have skimmed over.
- Topics that you feel need clarification.
- Additional information that you may have not been asked about that you believe is pertinent.
Links for more Information and samples:
- Monster has an example of a thank you letter you can reference here:
- Aerotek outlines ways in which one can make contact with a potential future employer as well as tips as when one should send a thank you follow up:
- Forbes has also outlined ways in which one should make contact after an interview with examples:
Content created by Erica McCain and Chase Farrell.