Sample of Cover Letter Format

Your Address (beginning at center of page)
City, State, Zip
Date

Person's Name (aligned at left margin)
Title
Organization
Address
City, State, and Zip


Dear Name:

Paragraph 1: Indicate specifically what you are applying for and how you found out about the position (whether through a person, publication or other means). When writing to inquire about possible openings, state the specific type of work you are seeking.

Paragraph 2: Call attention to the specific qualifications that make you a strong candidate for this opportunity. This may be work experience, skills, or other characteristics that are relevant to meeting the needs and challenges the employer faces. Stress your talent and skills and how they can favorably impact this prospective employer. Refer the reader to your enclosed resume. Do not put the focus on how the job will fill your needs; focus on how you can meet the employer's needs and challenges. This is the key paragraph which can differentiate you from the next candidate.

Paragraph 3: Request a personal appointment to discuss the opportunity. Indicate when and how you are going to contact the person to discuss your status for this opportunity. Thank the reader for their time and consideration regarding your application.

Sincerely,

(Your Signature)

Your Name Typed