Cover letters should be brief. Remember, its purpose is to introduce the resume not to repeat what is covered in the resume. The letter should say enough about the applicant to make the employer want to read the resume and find out more about your skills, talents, and abilities. It should include the following: your return address, employer’s address, salutation, 3 short paragraphs including introduction, main topic and closing, your closing with name and signature, and enclosures.
The cover letter format may be written in standard centered format or left justified. While students may be submitting multiple applications for internships, it is a good idea to save a sample cover letter on your computer and plug in the pertinent information with each individual resume submitted.
Thank you Letters
One of the most critical steps to securing an internship or job offer is sending the thank you letter. Remember, the thank you letter is the culmination of the interview process and serves many purposes as follows:
It serves as a reminder of who you are, Employers interview many candidates throughout the employment process.
It serves as an opportunity to review your strengths and what you may be able to offer the company.
It offers an opportunity to mention some details about yourself that you may have forgotten to discuss during the interview.
It allows you to send documentation that may have been requested during your interview.
It tells the employer when you will contact them regarding their decision.
It extends your gratitude for being considered in the interview process
The thank you letter will include: your return address, employer’s address, salutation, 2 to 4 short paragraphs including introduction, reinforcement, review and reminder, your closing with name and signatures and enclosures.
As with the cover letter format, the letter may be written in centered or left justified format and should be saved on your personal computer to be used in future application processes.