2013-2014 Darden Career Education

COVER LETTER OUTLINE

Compile the following information as part of crafting your cover letter. Revisit this outline and make adjustments for each company.

TARGET COMPANY: / List target company here
TARGET POSITION: / List target position here
BUYERS NEEDS: / List key buyer’s needs based on interactions, job description, knowledge of company, etc.
DIFFERENTIATING FACTOR:
“I want to work here because…” or “You should hire me because….” / List the differentiating factor of why YOU want to work for THIS company.
RELEVANT SKILLS: / List your results-oriented skills and accomplishments here. Use your resume to decide which skills/accomplishments to highlight – always keeping in mind the buyer’s needs.

Use the following table as an outline to craft the different sections of your cover letter. Be sure to update for each company.

HEADING
Simple but Relevant. Same information as your resume – name and contact information.
INSIDE ADDRESS
If you are recruiting on-Grounds, you can find the Company Address on the Career Management System. For all other companies, reference the company’s website
SALUTATION
Try to make this personal. If you do not know the name of the hiring manager, try to address to someone whom you have met within the company. Better to be more formal. Use Mr. and Ms. “Last Name”, unless you know they prefer being referred to by their first name.
INTRODUCTION/ WHO AM I?
Basic introduction of who you are, why you are writing perhaps and who you have already contacted with at the company (Do NOT list everyone you have met. Only list those that would make a difference and is important to this opportunity).
Paragraph 1
WHY THEM?
Why did you pick this company? What differentiates this firm from others in the industry? What is your connection to the firm? Try to be unique.
Paragraph 2
WHY YOU?
Why should this company pick you from other qualified candidates? What stands out about your work experience, accomplishments and “intangibles” that make you a good fit? Refer back to “Relevant Skills” – this should be impactful and inspired – not just a repeat of your resume. Directly link back to buyer’s needs
Paragraph 3
WHY US?
Why do you and the company work well together? Reiterate interest in company and include your ASK (in most cases, requesting an interview opportunity)
Paragraph 4
SIGNATURE
Include your full name, University of Virginia Darden School of Business, Class of 201X

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