Rhetorical Analysis of “Cover letter”
The cover letter was created to help guide us and understand what makes a good cover letter. Throughout the duration of writing the word “rhetorical” was emphasized to make us know the importance of what not to say, for example how we have the skills that can fix the company’s needs, not what our needs are. Also, this first hand practice showed us what is needed in a cover letter.
Genre and Medium−The first paragraph was kept short to cover certain points. First, it immediately tells the employer what position I want to be considered for and how I learned of the availability of the position. The second paragraph is to show how my qualifications meet the needs of the position posted. This can be done by picking two or three topics and highlight on my qualifications and interests. The closing paragraph refers to the enclosed resume, and requesting an interview at the convenience of the company.
Verbal Content− It is unacceptable to have grammar or spelling errors in any part of the cover letter. For language style I tried to avoid using “I” or writing in a passive voice. Instead, I tried to make it sound like I was the subject in each sentence, and stayed away from using contractions.
Audience− This is intended for future employment, so the audience will be management, coworkers, and human recourse personnel. The subject on the cover letter is directed towards them to show what job I‘m applying for, andhow my qualification can meet the company’s needs.
Design− The design of the cover is made to be short but to the point with clear detailed sentences, for the reader to be able to quickly read it without any confusion. The structure is three paragraphs describing what you are applying for, your skill, and contact information.
Technological Expertise− The technology used to complete this cover letter at first was career search engines to find the job ad. Other internet use was with researching the company by using search engines, and viewing online journals such as Huffington Post. Also, basic word processing skills were required to complete the paper.
Overall− This was a very helpful assignment that I will be able to use as soon as I graduate or even before hand. Now that I have an understanding on what makes a good cover letter I can keep improving it.