Cover Letters and Job Search Correspondence

A cover letter is an essential part of your correspondence with an employer in your search for a job. When mailing a resume, you should always include a cover letter explaining why you are sending a resume. While the resume provides an overview of your background, the cover letter allows you the opportunity to highlight those aspects of your background that are relevant to the particular position you are seeking.

A cover letter is most effective when it is individually written for a specific organization. Letters should be addressed to a specific person. Names of contact people can be obtained from directories, organization literature or by calling the organization directly to ask for the appropriate person's name and title. A cover letter also gives the employer a sample of your writing skills.

Samples of letters (PDF and Word formats):

• Tips on writing cover letters: PDF | Word
• Sample cover letter for specific position: PDF | Word
• Sample cover letter for unspecified position: PDF | Word
• Sample inquiry letter: PDF | Word
• Networking letter: PDF | Word
• Thank-you letter: PDF | Word
• Acceptance letter: PDF | Word
• Withdrawal letter: PDF | Word
• Rejection of offer letter: PDF | Word