Undergraduate > Cover Letters > Responding to Advertised Openings > Ad Response Model

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Model for an Ad Response Letter

Use this model when you have been informed of an opening thanks to an ad in print or online, or a personal connection. Click below to examine examples, then build the letter paragraph by paragraph. Identify an opening you might find attractive, draft a letter and let a career consultant critique it with you.

Your Street
City, State, Zip
Date

Person's Name (If given)
His/Her Title (If given)
Organization Name
Street Address
City, State, Zip

Re: the position title

Dear Mr. or Ms. (person's last name only):

Paragraph 1: State immediately the position you are pursuing and how you came to know of the opening. If the employer name is known, include something about them that your research may have uncovered that makes you additionally interested in working for them. Lastly state that you believe you possess a background that merits consideration for the position.

Paragraph 2: State that due to the position announcement and/or your own knowledge of the type of job available, you feel you have developed through your academic preparation and/or your experience, qualifications that are right for the position. Next, starting with whichever is a stronger area of qualifications (education or experience), relate those elements that match or parallel the needs of the position. Focus only on the needs you can match with qualification. Do not admit to shortcomings. Be as specific as possible regarding courses, projects, and job accomplishments without rambling on and on.

Paragraph 3: Start a new paragraph with a new focus to ease the "readability" of the letter. Continue to concentrate on qualifications that match the position needs, focusing here on the area you didn't address in Paragraph 2. Be sure to mention the personal traits, skills and attitudes which will help you succeed. Cite examples that result from education, work experience or some other life experience. Finish by declaring your confidence in your ability to succeed in the position.

Paragraph 4: State that you would welcome a personal interview to further discuss this opportunity. Introduce your resume and explain anything out of the ordinary reverse chronological format that you may have done to make your qualifications clearer. Offer to start with a phone interview if great distance separates you. Include a phone number and/or email. Finish by thanking them for their attention to your response.

Sincerely,
Your signature

Your name in print

Example