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Cover
Letters
Cover Letters
Your cover letter explains to the employer how the
qualifications set
forth in your resume make you an appropriate choice for the
position
available. Use this four-point process to create cover letters
with
impact:
1. The reason for the letter (Here is what I
want):
- I am interested in the Park Ranger opening
advertised in the April
12 issue of Forestry Monthly.
2. Explain your qualifications (Here is a little bit
about me):
- I am a senior at the School for Public and
Environmental Affairs
(SPEA) at Indiana University, majoring in public management
because
I want to pursue a career in public service. SPEA has provided
me with
the opportunity to combine courses in management with
conservation,
natural resources, and land management. In addition to the
coursework,
I have worked closely with Prof. Smith on his Great Lakes
project, where
I have had a chance to do extensive fieldwork with water
resources,
wetlands, and beach erosion.
3. Why do you want to work for them (I know who you are
and
what you do):
- I know that the Forestry Service maintains all
federal parks
and recreation areas, and is particularly involved in matters of
public
education about the value of natural resources and tourism.
4. Closing (How you can contact me or I’ll contact
you):
- I have included my resume and references. I will
contact you
next week to discuss opportunities at the Forestry
Service.*
* You can make this follow-up by phone (leave a voice-mail) or
e-mail.
Here’s what you’ll say (write): “Last week I
applied
for a park ranger position in Yellowstone National Park. I am
very excited
about this opportunity. Please let me know if you need any
additional
references or information. I look forward to talking to
you.”
You don’t need to ask for a thing.
Sample
Cover Letter