What is a cover letter?

What should I include in my cover letter?

How can I learn what will impress prospective employers?

How do I read a job advertisement carefully?

How can I learn what my qualifications are?

What if I don't have a qualification the employer is seeking?

Why is it important to learn about companies before preparing my cover letter?

How do I format my cover letter?

How do I organize my cover letter?

What do I include in my heading?

To whom should I address my letter?

What do I write in my introduction?

How do I approach writing my argument?

What should I include in my argument?

In my argument, should I show off my knowledge of the company?

What do I include in my closing?

Is there anything I should do before sending my cover letter to potential employers?

What do I include in my heading?

In your heading, include your contact information, such as your name, address, phone number, fax number, and e-mail address. Do not forget to include your e-mail address and phone number, because employers will often call you at home or contact you via e-mail.

After you have included your contact information, skip a space, and then write the date, such as "September 12, 2002." Skip another space, and write the contact information of the company to which you are applying. If you are writing to a specific person, be sure to include both his/her name and title, if the title is available. For example, "Catherine Lennox, Vice President of Public Relations." Follow this line with the address of the company.

For example:

Gina E. Pastoli
503 Bridge St.
Homewood, IL 60430
708-555-0293
gpastoli@e-mail-link.com

September 12, 2002

Catherine Lennox, Vice President of Public Relations
Taylor, Krammer, & Smith Associates
43 Westminster Ave.
Madawaska, ME 04756