types of cover letters

Purpose of a Cover Letter

  • Writing a cover letter serves multiple purposes:

    • Applying for a job position posted in various places such as newspaper classifieds or online.

    • Inquiring about possible job openings at a desired company.

    • Application for another position within the current company.

Types of Cover Letters

  • There are two standard types of cover letters:

    • Letter of Application: Used for applying for an advertised position.

    • Letter of Inquiry: Used when unsure of job openings but interested in the company.

Letter of Application

  • Structure of a Letter of Application:

    • Normal Business Letter Format: Adheres to a traditional business format.

    • Applicant's Contact Information: Located at the top.

    • Recipient's Name and Contact Information: Follows the applicant's details.

    • Formal Greeting/Salutation: Typical business format greeting.

    • Body of the Letter: Contains the main content explaining qualifications and interest in the position.

    • Closing Statement: Ends the letter formally.

    • Signature Block: A blank space for the handwritten signature, confirming authenticity.

    • Enclosure Notation: Written at the bottom to indicate that a resume is included with the cover letter.

Submission Guidelines for a Letter of Application

  • Mailing Requirements: The letter and resume should be placed in a full-size envelope to avoid folding.

  • Content Requirements: The applicant should mention where they found the job opening, outline qualifications, and explain why they are a suitable candidate for the position.

Electronic Submission of Cover Letter

  • In the case of submitting a cover letter electronically (via email or a website):

    • Modified Structure:

    • The signature block with contact details (physical address, email, and phone number) appears below the applicant’s name.

    • A handwritten signature is not possible in this format.

Letter of Inquiry

  • Purpose:

    • Utilized when the applicant does not know of open positions but is interested in potential employment opportunities at the target company.

  • Structure Similar to Application Letter:

    • Identifies how the applicant learned about the company.

    • Outlines qualifications for potential employment.

    • Specifies the applicant’s availability for work.

    • Provides a plan for follow-up after submission of the inquiry.

  • Sample Format for Electronic Inquiry:

    • Resembles the electronic application letter where the signature block is placed after the closing and lacks a handwritten signature.