Writing Professional Letters
In your professional career, you will be required to write many correspondence. One of the first you will write will be a cover letter. Other types of letters will be important in the career development process as well. This section is designed to help you with some of these.
Writing Cover Letters
A cover letter is the introductory document that is sent with a resume. A separate, targeted cover letter should be created for each job application and should express your reason for applying and how your skills match the needs of the position. The resume and the cover letter together are your best chance at obtaining an interview.
Writing Networking Letters
The networking letter is similar to a cover letter, but with a slightly different focus. It serves to introduce you, your interests, and your skills and experiences to someone who may be able to help you with your job search. The networking letter explains how you got the contact’s name and asks for an informational interview.
Writing Thank You Letters
The most frequently asked question about thank you letters is whether it should be handwritten or typed. The answer is that it really doesn’t matter as long as one is sent. Some believe a handwritten note is better because it is more personal and gets noticed more easily in the pile of mail on one’s desk. Others believe a formal letter is more professional and appropriate when applying for a job. As long as your letter is free of errors and thanks the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to meet with them, you have met the obligation. A professionally written email is also appropriate for a thank you letter.
