Student Affairs

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Thomas G. Clemson

922 Tiger Drive

Clemson, SC 29634

August 28, 20xx

Mr. Tom Smith

Director of Human Resources

First National Bank of Clemson

2001 Tiger Blvd.

Clemson, SC 29633

Dear Mr. Smith:

[First Paragraph, 2-3 Sentences] Tell Mr. Smith why you are writing. If you are applying for a position, A) tell him what

position you are applying for as a company probably has multiple positions open - be clear about the one you are inter-

ested in and B) tell him how you learned about the position; through a personal contact, an advertisement, the compa-

ny’s website, the Career Center, ClemsonJobLink, etc.

[Second Paragraph] This paragraph is the nitty gritty of the cover letter. Describe your interest in the

position and show how you are qualified for the position. Elaborate on information in your résumé, but do not re-

peat it - this is your chance to expand on your résumé. Be concise and give specific examples of your skills. This is the

paragraph in which you “sell yourself” - read through the job description and see what the employer is looking for in an

applicant. For example: The job description states “the candidate should have good human relations and communica-

tions skills,” so be sure to talk about an experience in which you had to embody those skills.

[Third Paragraph] Use this paragraph to talk about why you are interested in this organization. Infuse

organization-specific information (2-3 sentences) from researching the company. Things to consider:

mission, vision, goals, strategic plan, organizational structure, current events, trends, best practices, etc. Use this para-

graph to show why you are a good a fit for the company, not just the open position - make a

connection between you and the company.

[Final Paragraph] This is the last thoughts section for the employer. Reiterate your interest and thank the

employer for taking the time to read your cover letter and résumé. Make sure that you include your contact

information here as well - phone number and email address. Conclude with a sentence about how you would like the

opportunity to meet and discuss your interest and qualifications in person.

Sincerely,

[insert an electronic signature]

Thomas G. Clemson

Enclosure

*Your Information: Use your current contact information (like in the

example format) or copy and paste header from résumé (document cohesion).

*Date: Use the date that you submit the documents.

*Employer’s information: It is extremely important to have the name of the person

to whom you are sending your résumé and cover letter. Oftentimes, the contact

person will be listed on the job description. If not, check the company website or

call the human resources department.