Business Communication II

Apparaju
Section B

Prof. Hyma
Handout 5

Cover Letter/ Application Letter

Do
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Dont
1.
2.
3.
4.

conduct some research on the organization

find out name, title, and department of the person you are writing to
keep the cover letter brief.
keep it free of spelling and grammar errors.
format it and type on a standard A4 size sheet.
be unduly humble and avoid phrases like I beg to state
boast
repeat the information that is already there in the resume
forget to sign the letter before sending

Format
1. Block format (left aligned)
2. Blank punctuation
3. Your complete address
4. Date
5. Complete address of the person you are writing to
First Paragraph
1. Specifically state the position/job you are applying for
Second Paragraph
1. Point out particular facts in your qualifications that are relevant to the position
applied for (your strongest selling points).
2. Highlight important courses or special projects that make you more suitable for
the position
3. Highlight personal characteristics that are relevant to the position such as your
ability to work hard, learn quickly, handle responsibility or get along with people
4. Dont repeat information given in resume
Third Paragraph
1. Request an interview
2. Provide your contact details (e-mail, mobile number)
Sign the letter and mention enclosures before sending

Sample:
Dear Sir,
I am writing to inform you of my interest in the entry-level Sales position at ABC Ltd. I
recently graduated from XYZ Institute. My courses in Marketing and HR have given me
a solid base upon which I plan to build my career.
A successful sales person has the ability to develop and nurture long-term relationships. I
am efficient and organized; a helpful people person; and excellent at building rapport and
developing mutually beneficial relationships. My enthusiastic involvement in many
activities outside the academic circle has helped me in nurturing my leadership and
communication skills, which are essential to succeed in the working world.
Together with the cover letter, I am attaching my resume for your full consideration. I
know I will make a positive contribution to your company, and look forward to
discussing my capabilities in more detail. I appreciate your time reviewing my
application, and it will be a pleasure for me to attend an interview with you at your
convenient time.
Yours sincerely,