What is the purpose of a cover letter?

The purpose of a cover letter is to tell a prospective employer what you can do, why you are interested in them, and why you feel you are qualified.  A good, well-planned cover letter is just as important as an impressive resume or CV; and together they form an important resource in your job search.  Send a cover letter anytime you submit your resume or CV for a position.

Quick tips when writing a cover letter:

• A cover letter should ALWAYS accompany a resume or application (unless the employer/job description notes otherwise).

• Keep your cover letter to one page (3-5 paragraphs). Prioritize your most relevant and positive experiences.

• Use the professional format for closing, “Sincerely,” with your name (typed) and your signature between the two.

• Place the word “Enclosure” at the bottom of your cover letter, to indicate that you will attach a resume or application to your cover letter.

• Write to a specific person, ideally the one who actually makes the hiring decision. If the job description does not list a specific person, do your research – Go online and find the appropriate contact individual. You can also contact the Front Desk Receptionist or the Human Resources Office within that particular company if you still cannot find the appropriate contact person.

• If you try all of the options above and still end up without a specific contact individual, write to an appropriate position title. For example, address your letter to the “Sales Manager” when applying for a Sales position.

• Create a separate cover letter for each job. Generic letters do not impress employers! Employers might interpret a generic cover letter as lack of interest or passion for the job position.

• Print your cover letter on the same type of paper as your resume.  Furthermore, maintain side margins of approximately one inch with even space at the top and bottom of the page.

• Check for spelling and grammatical errors. Make sure that you have 2-3 people review your cover letter before you send it to an employer. Grammatical errors are unacceptable!

WHAT IS AN INTERVIEW’S PURPOSE?

When going into an interview know what you want and what you have to offer.  This is the first opportunity the employer has to meet and speak with you so your first impression is critical.  Your goal is to show the employer that you can not only do the job but you will also be a valuable member to their team.  You’re not just choosing a career-you’re making a choice about your life.  Interviewing is a step to getting that perfect job or finding out where and how you will fit in with that organization.

Key questions an employer has during an interview

• Can the person do the job?

• Will the person do the job?

• What does the candidate want to do with their career and this job?

• Will the person be compatible with the existing team/organization?

Stages of an interview

• Introduction Phase

• Exchange of Information or Questioning Phase

• Closing Phase

• Post-Interview

• Follow-Up

PREPARING FOR AN INTERVIEW

When preparing for your interview, do your research. Know about the company and the position.

Researching the Employer

• Find out about:

  • location

  • size, including the number of locations and employees

  • services or products, including new products and projects

  • competitors within the industry

  • growth pattern

  • reputation

  • divisions and subsidiaries

  • sales, assets, earnings

  • any foreign operations.

• Are they participating on campus, whether through the University Career Center or another office?  If so, make sure to attend to meet representatives and learn more about their company.

• Learn as much as you can about the job position and what it requires.  The more information you can find, the easier it will be to match yourself to the position.

• Browse the internet for recent news stories or other information of note.  Explore what the news outlets have said, blogs, or general company information sites.

• Check out glassdoor.com or payscale.com for more information on companies and typical interview questions.

• Contact Alumni found through LinkedIn and Facebook.

Sources:

• Technical Interview Questions: Key Tips & Sample Answers | WikiJob

• STAR Interview Guide

• CASE Interview Questions | UGA Career Center