Today's industries have been very particular with applicants' qualifications and, it may no longer be unknown that screening of applicants begins at the resume level. Hence, it's an important step to learn cover letter formats to customize a professional-looking cover letter, and to be able to impress a potential employer even at the application level.

Never send a resume without a cover letter. A cover letter should explain your intent for sending your resume so you have to be specific with what you are asking for, such as applying for a position or a job inquiry.

In a cover letter template, these elements should always be present:

• Briefly and concisely describe how you learned about the position or the organization;
  
  
• Make your cover letter convincing enough to entice the reader to look at your resume;
  
  
• Call attention to the elements in your resume which are relevant to the position for which you are applying;
  
  
• Be concise and honest about your intent - avoid using the word "very" as much as possible, and use pronouns sparingly;
  
  
• Portray your attitude in the cover letter, including your personality, what motivates you, and show your communication skills;
  
  
• Always request for an interview at the last paragraph.

There are different resume cover letter templates you can refer to when sending it using hard copy or through email. The general cover letter format guideline contains these:

First Paragraph - this part explains why your intention for writing

Second or Middle Paragraphs - describes your top credentials and what you are capable of doing when hired. Also describe your interest in the employer or what they do. Demonstrate how well you know about their organization or position and related this to:

Concluding Paragraph - your contact information, including your email address, telephone number/mobile number, and when you will follow-up. Additionally, always end this paragraph with a call to action such as asking for an interview.

Cover Letter Format Guidelines (for hard copy):

Your Street Address
City, State, Zip Code
Telephone Number
Email Address

(move down 4 spaces)

Month, Day, Year

(move down 4 spaces)

Recipient's Name
Title
Name of Organization
Street or P.O. Box Address
City, State, Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. Lastname:

Opening/First Paragraph (refer to guidelines above for writing an opening paragraph)

Second Paragraph: This is your opportunity to explain in detail, but briefly, the relevant items in your resume. Don't forget to state the fact that your resume is enclosed.

Third Paragraph: Be open about your availability, and state that you would be glad to provide additional information the employer might need. And thank the employer for his/her consideration.

Sincerely,

(Your handwritten signature)

Your Name typed

Enclosure(s) (refers to your resume and other credentials)

Note: It would be best to divide the contents of your cover letter into four paragraphs, depending on its length.


Cover Letter Format 2 (e-mail version)

Date (month, date, year)

Recipient's Name
Title
Name of Organization
Street or P.O. Box Address
City, State, Zip Code
Email address

Dear Mr./Ms./Dr./Prof.:

First Paragraph:
Sample: I learned about the open positions for sales representatives for your ______ branch, from your website. I am very interested in this position with (company name), and believe that the degree I finished and employment experience are appropriate.

Second Paragraph:
Sample: I'm still working toward my master's degree, and am currently employed as a sales representative with a pharmaceutical company. In my first three months, I increased my sales volume and profit margin significantly, and would like to repeat or exceed this success in your company. I have strong academic background in medicine and marketing, and believe that I could effectively apply my combined experience and education in your company. I will complete my master's degree in marketing in April so I will be available for employment in late April or early May.

Third Paragraph:
Sample: Enclosed is a copy of my resume which further details my qualifications for the position I am applying for.

Fourth Paragraph:
Sample: I look forward to your invitation for an interview so we can discuss sales opportunities in your company. I will also contact you within the next week to confirm receipt of my email and resume, and to answer other questions you may have.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Your Name
Street Address
City, State, Zip Code
Tel. No.
Email address

Attached is my resume in MS Word document.

These cover letter templates should be able to help you customize your own cover letter and ready you for your next application.