Cover Letter Handbook Essay Example for Free

Cover Letter Handbook Essay Register in the AIC Career Services database to view part-time and full-time jobs, work study opportunities, and internships in the Career Services web-page. View MonsterTrak jobs (jobs requiring 1-3 years) experience directly through the Career Services Job database. AIC Career Services is located in the Campus Center. E-mail: [emailprotected] or call 413-205-3237 to schedule an appointment Visit the college web-page at www.aic.edu, access the Career Services link to register. WHAT IS A COVER LETTER? A cover letter is an application or letter of interest for a particular job whether solicited from advertisement or non-solicited. A cover letter should always be included with a resume. A cover letter introduces a job hunter to an employer and indicates a desire for an interview with that employer. THREE COMPONENTS TO A COVER LETTER 1. First Paragraph: States the desired position and how you learned about the job. Job hunters find employment openings through the newspaper, school, an employee of the company, or the Internet. 2. Second Paragraph: Includes the body of the letter and explains why you should be hired by describing how your work experience qualifies you for the job. Refer the employer to the resume when describing qualifications. But do not repeat the same information that is in the resume. Indicate why you are interested in the company. (Use a third paragraph to further explain your qualifications and interests if necessary). 3. Final Paragraph: Indicates a desire for an interview. Include contact information and indicate the type of response you anticipate from the letter. Always detail how you will follow up on your application. With the exception of school districts, never end the cover letter with look forward to hearing from you soon. An employer (other than school districts) may not  call candidates so it is ineffective to put the ball in the employers court. As a freshman, your main concern is most probably what MAJOR to choose. There are a variety of different ways to help you determine a possible major: 1) Get feedback from friends and family or those who know you best. Often, they can share with you what skills or attributes you have and this can help you in your decision to choose a major or potential career. Remember to use their feedback only as assistance in your decision-making, and not as strict advice. 2) Take a values/skills/interests evaluation such as FOCUS that will assist to determine what kind of career you are interested in and also help with choosing a major. 3) Gain experience. Often, the best way to figure out your career path or major is to gain experience in fields that you are interested in. Look for a summer job or part-time job during school that will help you gain experience in a field that you are interested in. You can visit the career center or search online for employment. 4) Get involved with activities/groups/committees on your campus. This will not only be a way to socialize and build relationships, but is also a way to gain further experience and skills such as leadership, teamwork, community service, etc. 5) Take your general education requirements first. This will help you focus on future courses that will help you achieve your career goals. SOPHOMORE 1) Start to set goals for yourself: both Career and Personal: Examples: I will get a summer job that I am interested in I will work on my organization skills I will get work on my study skills and maintain my GPA 2) Do your best in school! Potential employers value an employee with good grades and high academic achievement. Doing well in school demonstrates that you have motivation, determination, and intellect. 3) Start working on a resume and cover letter that can be given to potential employers. The career center offers cover letter and resume-writing assistance. 4) Browse career literature in the career office or look online at different jobs you are interested in and the skills that each job requires. JUNIOR 1) Look into internships that align with your course of study. First, ask your advisor for contacts who offer internship experiences. The career center is a great place to search for internships. 2) Start developing a credential packet that can be sent to employers. This packet will include your resume, transcript, references, credential/certification documentations, and any other documentation that will enhance your opportunity to become employed. 3) Attend workshops that will build certain skills pertaining to your field of study and attend any career services workshops that are offered. 4) Update your resume periodically and have someone in the career office proof-read it along with any updated cover letters. SENIOR 1) Job search: Utilize the assistance of the career office and online websites. Attending job fairs is also a great way to meet employers. 2) Join associations within your field of study at a lower student rate. These memberships will also add credentials to your resume. 3) Mock interview: Practice your interviewing skills with a career services professional. 4) Maintain your credential packet that the career center can keep on file for you to send out to potential employers TIPS: Take care of yourself: physically and mentally. Make sure to get plenty of sleep and eat well. Exercising can also reduce stress and boost energy levels. Networking: The more people you know in a field that interests you, the better your chance is of getting a position in that field. Make yourself known to those who have connections and soon, you will have connections of your own. Keep options open. Your perfect job may not be the first one you get and being open to other locations, salaries, or populations can help you attain a job that will offer you the experience you need for future endeavors. Familiarize yourself with the latest technology in the career field you are interested in pursuing. Being knowledgeable of current technology is always an excellent asset to have and makes you more marketable.