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Career Connections: Writing Your Cover Letter

Writing Your Cover Letter

A cover letter is a business letter that is included with a resume and job application. It offers insight about your qualifications and experience related to the job for which you are applying. A cover letter is part of the first impression you make on a prospective employer – it should leave them excited to talk with you!

  • A cover letter should:
    • Convey professionalism and attention to detail.
    • Be tailored to the individual job for which you are applying.
    • Uploaded to your application or included in an email to Human Resources or the Hiring Manager.

After you have reviewed the information and created a draft of your resume and/or cover letter that you feel good about, schedule a resume review with a Career Specialist to ensure your document is ready to go.

Traditional Cover Letter Format and Content

Applicant Information:
Applicant Name
City, ST
Email Address
Phone Number

Date

Hiring Company Contact Information:
Contact Name (Hiring Manager or Human Resources Personnel)
Job Title
Department (If applicable)
Company Name
Address
City, ST Zip Code

Salutation:
Dear (contact name, if known or Hiring Manager):

Introductory Paragraph:

The introductory paragraph is typically 2-3 sentences and serves as your statement of interest in the position. This paragraph should grab the reader’s attention so they are motivated and interested to continue reading your cover letter.

Body Paragraph(s):

The second paragraph is the heart of your document. Here is where you not only share your achievements, expertise, and skills, but also identify where and how they relate to the job for which you are applying. Offer specific examples of direct experiences that relate to the job. Ensure that you tailor your cover letter to the job – talk about qualifications and skills they are looking for in the posting. It is also helpful to mention the company name, department, and job title as way to demonstrate you gave critical thought as to how your background aligns with their needs.

Optional Additional Body Paragraph(s):

Consider not only what your cover letter says but how it looks. Avoid run-on sentences by breaking them up at logical points. If your second paragraph is more than 5 sentences, it is a good idea to break it into two paragraphs.

Closing Paragraph:

The closing paragraph should be brief. Restate your interest in the position and remind them the best way(s) to contact you. Close with a statement thanking them for their time and your excitement in speaking with them further about the position.

Closing:
Sincerely,

 

Applicant Name

Contact Us

262.695.7848
careers@wctc.edu - Main e-mail
HireTalent@wctc.edu - Recruit WCTC Talent

Hours
Monday - Thursday
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Friday
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Location
Pewaukee Campus
College Center, Room C-019
800 Main Street, Pewaukee, WI 53072

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