Office of Career Services
Cover Letter Writing Guide: Letter of Inquiry
Cover letters are letters of application that supplement and accentuate information on the resume. They should be written with the reader’s interest in mind. Direct particular attention toward specific skills and use concrete examples.
Letter of Inquiry
A letter of inquiry is sent to explore employment possibilities when you are interested in working for a particular organization but do not know if an opening exists. Target an employer’s needs by researching the organization to obtain information about jobs for which you are qualified. Refer to the specific aspects of the organization’s work that interest you (mission, culture, clients/students, etc). Include this information in a separate paragraph.
COVER LETTER GUIDELINES
- Always include a resume with a letter of inquiry.
- It should be concise and no more than one page with four paragraphs.
- Use 12 point, Times New Roman Font (font can be 11 point except for corporate jobs).
- Use .8-1 point margins.
- Use the same identifying information format for resume and letter of inquiry.
- Address your letter of inquiry to the individual with whom you wish to networking.
- Double check spelling of contact names and titles.
- Tell an employer why you would like to speak with them.
- Mention source of referral.
- Use your own words; you do not want your letter of inquiry to sound like it was copied from a book or the internet.
- Let your letter reflect your professionalism, individuality and creativity.
- Demonstrate your abilities with concrete examples.
- Request to have a talk, discussion, or meeting, rather than an interview.
- Do not simply reiterate information on your resume, but quantify experiences and expand on accomplishments.
- Check for spelling and grammar mistakes.
- Sign your letters in blue or black ink.
- How to send it
- As an Email, the letter of inquiry should be the body of the email message and (attach your letter of inquiry and resume as two separate MS Word or PDF attachments.
- Standard mail, the letter of inquiry should be printed on resume paper (match paper used for resume). Do not staple your resume to your letter of inquiry.
- Fax on standard paper (resume should follow).
| Use the same heading that is on your resume or CV 2 spaces Date 4 Spaces Name 2 Spaces Dear Mr./Ms________: 1 Space 1st Paragraph: Start the letter by introducing yourself and explain concisely why you are writing. Tell the employer how you heard of the organization. Be specific: tell them that the organization was listed on TCCS LINK. If you were referred by someone, include that person’s first and last name. Let the employer know the degree you will receive or received, the graduate school you are attending or attended, the type of license/certification you will be eligible for or have, and that your resume is attached. 1 Space 2nd Paragraph: Describe your interest in the field and organization. Show that you have researched the organization and the industry. Make it clear why you think you are well qualified for this type of work. State what you want to learn in the informational interview. 1 Space 3rd Paragraph Talk about yourself. Highlight your relevant experience, achievements and qualifications. Include two or three of your skills that relate to the positions within this organization and how the population will benefit from these skills. BE BRIEF! Do not include any personal information. 1 Space 4th Paragraph (Closing Paragraph) Thank the employer for his/her time. Include your phone number and email address (same contact information listed on your resume) and note that you have included your resume. 2 Spaces Sincerely, 3 Spaces Your Name Typed |