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Cover Letter Writing Tips Andrea Campbell Program Manager Career Center Cover letters are * extremely important tools in the job search process, dynamic cover letter that highlights your skills and what you can con tribute to the employer invites her/him to read your resume for more detailed informa tion. Effective cover letters should convey a sense of purpose, project enthusiasm for the position, and demonstrate knowledge of the employer's goals and needs. Employer research conducted prior to writing can bet ter inform you of their specific needs. Keep the following tips in mind when composing your letter. Address the letter to a specific person. This may require research on your part or a phone call to the company, but it will facili tate a more timely response from the employer. Be sure to indicate a specific job title for the person as well. If possible, tailor your letter to the _ requirements of the position and the • employer's needs. If you are seeking | "V. to connect with an employer but are not aware ot open positions, it is also acceptable to send a letter highlighting your skills and interest in working for that employer. Be sure to send a tvned oricrinal rover letter with your resume, Sound upbeat and confident to invite the employer to read your resume. Use the active voice for a more forceful approach. The letter should be easy to read, typed neatly on a single page (8 l/2 by 11") on good quality paper, and free of spelling punctuation and grammatical errors. Proofread your letter several times and make a copy to keep for your files. Before mailing it, ask yourself the following questions. • Is it clear? Will it impart my meaning to the reader? • Is it concise? Do I say every thing I want to say in the fewest words possible? • Is it well organized? Am I including relevant ideas? • Am I projecting to the employer the contribution I can make? • Have I expanded on areas in my back ground that are particularly relevant to the position and employer? To obtain additional information about writing cover letters and obtain samples, visit the Career Center library. On-call counselors are also available to review- your letter and offer suggestions. Management Trainee Get Ready Get Set You probably first heard of The Sherwin-Williams Company that summer when your folks made you help paint the living room. (Our apologies.) But, in fact, we’ve been around for more than 130 years. Founded in 1866 by Henry A. Sherwin and Edward P. Williams, The Sherwin-Williams Company today has sales exceeding $5 billion and is ranked among the nation’s top Fortune 400 companies. The reason for our success is simple: We trust our employees, reward their ingenuity, and give them the tools necessary to provide our customers with great service and superb products. We’re seeking candidates to join our entry level Management Program throughout the northeastern portion of the U.S. As a Management Trainee, you’ll gain experience in all facets of wholesale/retail store operations, customer service, product knowledge, human resources, credit/collections management, and more. A four-year college degree or related work experience is a prerequisite. We offer a competitive salary/bonus, full benefits package and a well-defined career path. For confidential consideration, send your resume and salary requirements to: with your J career For more information please see our website www.sherwin-williams.com REAL Experience REAL Opportunities REAL Wealth-building programs REAL Benefits A REAL Future WE WILL BE ATTENDING CAREER FAIR AT THE USC CAMPUS MARCH 23RD, 2000 FROM 11 AM TO 3 PM. ^An equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V. www.sherwin-williams.com