FGCU Career Development Center First Floor Howard Hall
Cover Letter Guidelines
Purpose
The purpose of a cover letter is to show how your background fits the particular job and organization to which you are applying. You are also demonstrating to a prospective employer that you are the right person for the position and that you have a specific interest in working for that organization. There are two basic types of cover letters: letters of application and letters of inquiry. A letter of application is used to apply for a position currently available. A letter of inquiry is sent to express interest in working for a particular employer. Most major employers do not keep resumes on file unless they have positions available. Therefore, letters of inquiry should be limited. Contact the employer for their policies on unsolicited letters and resumes prior to sending them.
General Suggestions for Cover Letters:
- Include a cover letter when sending, emailing or faxing a resume.
- Your letters should be work centered and employer centered, not self-centered.
- Tailor your letters for each employer and position. Generic, mass produced letters are unprofessional.
- Research the employer! Demonstrate some knowledge of the organization. Information is available on the Internet, in the Career Development Center, the University Library, and most public libraries.
- Highlight how you can contribute to the organization to which you are applying.
- Incorporate your job objective into the letter, especially if you have not included an objective in your resume.
- Call attention to items on your resume rather than duplicating all the information included on the resume.
- Be brief. In most cases a one page letter is sufficient.
- When the employer requests salary history or requirements, it is best to state a range. Indicate that through your research, you are aware that the salary range for a person with your experience, education and training for this type of position is between $______and $______. See the Career Development Center Home Page for salary information.
Key Sections
Return Address
Your return address and phone number should appear in the top left-hand corner, without your name. As a general rule, you should avoid abbreviations in the addresses of your cover letters, although abbreviating the state is increasingly common in all business correspondence.
The Date
The date should appear two lines beneath your return address on the right side of the page. Write out the date; do not use the abbreviated format.
Example: May 12, 20xx
FGCU Career Development ServicesCover Letter Guidelines
studentservices.fgcu.edu/careers
FGCU Career Development Center First Floor Howard Hall
The Addressee
Always try to find out the name and the proper title of the addressee before you send out a cover letter. Two lines beneath the date, list the full name of the addressee. On the next line, list the individual’s formal business title; on the subsequent line, list the name of the company. This is followed by the company’s address, which generally takes two lines. Occasionally, the individual’s full title or the company name and address will be very long, and can appear awkward on the usual number of lines allocated. In this case, you may prefer to use an extra line.
The Salutation
The salutation should be typed two lines beneath the company’s address. It should begin with “Dear Mr.” Or “Dear Ms.” Followed by the individual’s name and a colon. Even if you have previously spoken with an addressee who has asked to be called by his or her first name, you should never use a first name in a salutation. In some cases, such as when you are responding to “blind” advertisements, it may be necessary to adopt a general salutation. In such circumstance, salutations such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Good Morning” may be stronger that “Dear Sir or Madam” or “To whom it may concern.” In any case, avoid potentially offensive salutations like “Dear Gentlemen,” or “Dear Sirs.”
First Paragraph
State immediately and concisely which position you wish to be considered for and what makes you the best candidate for the position. If you are responding to a classified ad, be sure to reference the name of the publication and the date the ad appeared. Keep the first paragraph short and hard-hitting.
Example: Having majored in mathematics at Florida Gulf Coast University, where I also worked as a Research Assistant, I am confident that I would make a very successful Research Trainee in your economics department.
Second Paragraph
Detail what you contribute to the company, and show how your qualifications will benefit this firm. If you’re responding to a classified ad, specifically discuss how your skills relate to the job’s requirements. Remember, keep it brief. Describe your interest in the corporation. Subtly emphasize your knowledge about this firm (the result of your research effort) and your familiarity with the industry.
Other Points to Consider:
- You are impressed with the organization's products, management style, curriculum, facilities, etc.
- You are seeking a position with a smaller organization to gain a broad perspective of the functions of a particular organization, or for other reasons.
- You are seeking a large organization that will allow you the opportunity to specialize, or other reasons.
- You are seeking a small, rural school because you attended a small school or taught at a small school. The same reasons apply for other positions and other schools.
- You are interested in technical sales or consumer goods sales, or retail sales, and why.
- You are interested in working for a franchise because....
- You have been referred by (person's name) and are impressed with the information he or she gave you on (organization's name).
- You are impressed by a current development within the organization. Possible current events might include an article in a recent publication, a recent expansion project (either a building or acquisition of another company), a new product line, a recent change in administration, or knowledge of the school district's recent athletic records.
- If you have met the person you are writing to, remind the person of where and when, and thank him/her for stimulating your interest.
- Perhaps you were impressed with the information given at a recent seminar, workshop, or during a tour of their organization.
- If applicable, state you are aware they have hired Florida Gulf Coast University graduates in the past.
Example: In addition to my strong background in mathematics, I also offer significant business experience, having worked in a data processing firm, a bookstore, and in computer programming would prove particularly useful in the position of the Trainee.
Example: I am attracted to City Bank by your recent rapid growth and the superior reputation of your economic research department. After studying different commercial banks, I concluded that City Bank will be a strong competitive position to benefit from upcoming changes in the industry, such as phasing out Regulation Q.
Final Paragraph
In the final paragraph, thank the person for their time and consideration and politely request an interview. Include your phone number with the hours you can be reached, or mention that you will follow up with a phone call within several days to arrange an interview at a mutually convenient time.
If appropriate add the following information to your final paragraph:
- Request necessary application materials.
- If you will be in the city on a certain date, volunteer this information.
- Indicate if you can be contacted at a telephone number or address other than the one(s) on your resume.
- Tell them that you have an answering machine or that your can easily be reached by email.
- If you will be away for an extended period of time, tell them who will take a message. Always make sure potential employers can reach you easily.
Example: I would like to interview with you at your earliest convenience. I am best reached between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. at (239)555-5555
The Closing
The closing should be two lines beneath the body of the letter. Keep the closing simple-“Sincerely” suffices. Four lines underneath this, type your full name as it appears on your resume. Sign your typed name in black ink. As silly as it sounds, people often forget this seemingly obvious detail. As an oversight such as this suggests that you don’t take care with your work.
The Enclosure Line
If you are enclosing a resume or other materials with your letter, include an enclosure line, flush left, at the bottom of the letter.
Example: Enc. Resume
FGCU Career Development ServicesCover Letter Guidelines
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FGCU Career Development Center 201 McTarnaghan Hall
Cover Letter Examples
1226 State StreetFt. Myers, FL 33904
May 3, 20xx
Ms. Judy Rodreiguiz
Human Resources Manager
Goodview, Inc.
3333 E. Post Road
Sarasota, FL 33569
Dear Ms. Rodreiguiz:
I am actively seeking a position as a systems analyst and was excited to learn of the opportunity at Goodview, Inc. The requirements for the position match well with my qualifications and career goals.
As you will learn from the enclosed resume, I will receive my Bachelor’s Degree in December with a major in computer information systems. Please note my solid academic performance and technical knowledge. While I was a student, I had the opportunity to intern with a local employer where I developed additional technical skills, and polished my interpersonal skills.
I am genuinely interested in the position and in working for Goodview, Inc. Your firm has an excellent reputation on the Florida Gulf Coast University campus and comes highly recommended to me. Please consider granting me a personal interview to discuss my qualifications. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Ann E. Johnson
Enclosure / 222 E. Main Street
Ft. Myers, FL 33905
January 2, 20xx
Ms. Jane Goodyear
Executive Director
United Way
333 Penn Avenue
Miami, FL 33268
Dear Ms. Goodyear:
I believe I am an excellent candidate for the position of assistant director currently available in your organization. Please accept the enclosed resume as application for the position. Highlights from my background include:
- Bachelor of Science Degree with a major in Psychology and a minor in Sociology
- Internship experience with the Lee County Area United Way
- Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
Sincerely,
James L. Olson
Enclosure
Cover Letter Guidelinesstudentservices.fgcu.edu/careers
FGCU Career Development Center 201 McTarnaghan Hall
123 Any Street, Apt. 4Naples, FL 33652
May 12, 20xx
Mr. Scott Bostwick
Assistant Principal
Immokalee High School
605 West School Road
Naples, FL 33658
Dear Mr. Bostwick:
I am writing to apply for the English Teacher position at Immokalee High School. Growing up outside of Naples, I know the unique challenges facing rural schools in the area. I am enthusiastic and ready to meet these challenges as a teacher. My education, experiences, and interests make me a good fit for Immokalee High School.
My recent student teaching experience at Central High School has confirmed my desire to teach high school English. I was responsible for teaching Freshmen Composition, American Literature, and Advanced Writing. My experiences have prepared me to successfully teach both writing and literature courses. Central High School was comparable in size to Immokalee, and I enjoyed the diversity a school that size offers. While student teaching, I had the opportunity to coach the Forensics and Debate teams and would welcome the opportunity to assist with extracurricular activities again. My enclosed resume and credentials further highlight my classroom experiences.
I would enjoy meeting with you to further discuss the position and my qualifications. Please contact me at (239)555-8514 to set up an interview. If I am not available, please leave a message and I will return your call promptly. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Thomas Example
Enclosures / 903 West Any Street, Apt. 2
Ft. Myers, FL 33907
April 10, 20xx
Ms. Nancy Schreurs
Three Oaks Elementary
P.O. Box 280
Ft. Myers, FL 33901
Dear Ms. Schreurs:
I recently learned of your Fourth Grade Teacher position through the Career Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University. My education, experiences, and interests make me a good candidate for this position.
Enclosed are my resume and credentials for your review. I am completing my student teaching at Viking Elementary School in Cape Coral, Florida. I enjoy the unique challenges of teaching at a growing and innovative district and strive to work in a similar environment again. While Three Oaks Elementary is comparable to Viking Elementary in size, I’m sure it has its own unique challenges and opportunities. I was pleased to hear about the district’s initiative to incorporate computers and the internet into the classroom. Both my education and student teaching have prepared me to use technology in new and creative ways in my teaching. During student teaching, I had the opportunity to assist the men’s track team, and I look forward to assisting with extracurricular opportunities in the future.
I would enjoy meeting with you to further discuss the position and my qualifications. Please call me at (239) 555-8514 to arrange an interview. If I am not available, please leave a message and I will return your call promptly. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Robert Example
Enclosures
Cover Letter Guidelinesstudentservices.fgcu.edu/careers
FGCU Career Development Center 201 McTarnaghan Hall
200 State Street, Apt. #3Ft. Myers, FL 33908
August 1, 20xx
John C. Smith
Partner
STR Public Accounting Firm
300 River Street
Tampa, FL 32658
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am a Florida Gulf Coast University accountancy student and I am seeking a Spring 20xx internship in public accountancy. During the month of October, I will be interviewing with several firms through the Florida Gulf Coast University Career Development Center. As you are aware, your firm does not visit our campus; however, I would like to be considered for an internship position in your firm.
A copy of my resume is enclosed. Please note my academic achievements, volunteer work with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program and leadership experience in the Association of Accountancy Students. Please feel free to contact my references for additional information on my academic performance and career commitment to public accounting.
The accountancy program at Florida Gulf Coast University has received recognition for the performance of graduates on the CPA exam and has prepared me very well for a career in public accounting. Should you choose to accept me as an intern, I would receive academic credit through the Florida Gulf Coast University Internship Program.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications through a personal interview.
Sincerely,
Jane S. Olson
Enclosure / 206 State Street
Naples, FL 33956
January 2, 20xx
Ms. Carolyn A. Beatty
Manager of Corporate Recruiting
Central Electric Company
825 River View Road
Sarasota, FL 32658
Dear Ms. Beatty:
I recently visited your company’s corporate home page and was excited to learn that you hire recent college graduates from all majors as management trainees. The idea of having rotational training and assignments in a variety of management functional areas is very appealing to me. Please consider me as a management trainee applicant.
I will be receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Studies this May. I am an academically strong student and have been recognized by the university for academic achievement through receipt of various awards and scholarships, which are detailed on my enclosed resume.
In addition to my academic achievement, you will note that I have always been industrious and hard working. This is evidenced by the fact that I have been continually employed part-time since I began college. Despite this, I have always managed to be involved in a number of extracurricular activities, which demonstrates my ability to effectively organize and plan my time to maximum advantage.
My solid academic performance, work ethic, drive, organizational skills, and strong interest in the business field should convince you that I have the basic ingredients to make a valuable addition to Central Electric.
I would be pleased to have the opportunity to interview with your college recruiting representative and hope you will give the enclosed resume favorable consideration. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Janet I. Johnson
Enclosure
Cover Letter Guidelinesstudentservices.fgcu.edu/careers
FGCU Career Development Center 201 McTarnaghan Hall
1010 River StreetFt. Myers, FL 33658
January 2, 20xx
Joseph A. Olson
Sales Manager
ABC Company
200 Lake Street
Miami, FL 33265
Dear Mr. Olson:
ABC Company’s extensive list of products and growth potential are attractive to me as I seek a position in the area of technical sales. I have successful sales experience and the ability to adapt to technical information. In May I will be graduating from Florida Gulf Coast University with a degree in Marketing and I am very interested in pursuing sales opportunities with your organization.
As you will see from the enclosed resume, I gained invaluable sales experience through both my part-time retail positions and my summer internship with XYZ Office Products. While on my internship, I exceeded my sales quotas and received excellent evaluations from my supervisor. As a student, I sought leadership opportunities in the American Marketing Association and believe I grew as a professional through those experiences.
I would welcome the opportunity to learn more about a possible sales career at ABC Company. I am from the Miami area and will be at home on Spring Break the week of March 15th. Would it be possible to arrange a meeting at that time? I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Jane A. Johnson
Enclosure
Cover Letter Guidelinesstudentservices.fgcu.edu/careers