Fillable Printable Format A Professional Letter

Format A Professional Letter

Your Name

Your Address

Your City, State, Zip Code

Your Phone Number

Your Email Address

Date

Employer Contact’s Full Name

Title

Organization

Address

City, State, Zip Code

Salutation

Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name:

Body of Cover Letter

The body of your cover letter lets the employer know three things: 1. what position you are applying for, 2.

why the employer should select you for an interview, and 3. how you will follow-up. Use three paragraphs

to accomplish this.

First Paragraph:

The first paragraph of your letter should include information on why you are writing. Mention the position

you are applying for. Include the name of a mutual contact, if you have one. Be clear and concise regarding

your request.

Middle Paragraphs:

The next section of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer. Convince the

reader that they should grant the interview or appointment you requested in the first paragraph. Make

strong connections between your abilities and their needs. Mention specifically how your skills and

experience match the job you are applying for. Remember, you are interpreting your resume, not repeating

it. Try to support each statement you make with a piece of evidence. Use several shorter paragraphs or

bullets rather than one large block of text.

Final Paragraph:

Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position. Include

information on how you will follow-up. State that you will do so and indicate when (one week's time is

typical). You may want to reduce the time between sending out your resume and follow up if you fax or e-

mail it.

Complimentary Close:

Respectfully yours,

Signature:

Handwritten Signature (for a mailed letter)

Typed Signature