TIPS FOR WRITING A SUPERIOR COVER LETTER
1.
Write to Someone in Particular
 Do not use “To whom it may concern”
2.
Make Absolutely No Errors
 Make sure of correct spelling of name and title
 No typographical, grammar or spelling errors
3.
Personalize Your Content
 Do not use form letters
 “Broadcasting” letters and resumes get little results
4.
Present a Good Appearance
 Use quality paper
 Match your resume
 Color of paper should be conservative (off white/beige)
5.
Provide a Friendly Opening
 Use a reminder of prior contacts
 Include a reason for your correspondence
6.
Target Your Skills and Experiences
 Know something about the organization or person
 Present any relevant background that may be of interest
7.
Close with an Action Statement
 Let the employer know you desire further contact
 Mention the opportunity for an interview
UAFS—Career Services
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center #232 | 5210 Grand Avenue | Fort Smith, Arkansas 72913
(479) 788-7017 | FAX (479) 424-6017 | careerservices@uafs.edu
Updated: 7/10/2015
NUMA LION
5210 Grand Avenue
Fort Smith, Arkansas 72913
(479) 788-7000
numalion@gmail.com
January 15, 20xx
Dan Foreman, Ed. D.
Superintendent
Cedarville Public Schools
P.O. Box 97
Cedarville, AR 72932
Dr. Foreman:
As a May 20xx graduate of the University of Arkansas—Fort Smith School of Education, I am
currently seeking an opportunity in Early Childhood Education P-4. I have excellent supporting
qualifications for this position, and would appreciate your careful consideration of my
credentials as presented in the enclosed Confidential Placement File.
As my resume indicates, my education and previous work experiences have prepared me well for
the challenging field of education. In addition to my practicum and internship classes, I have
served as a substitute teacher in the Van Buren School District for two years. I am confident I
have the necessary experience and required skills to be a contributing member of the Cedarville
Public Schools.
I would welcome the opportunity for a personal interview. If you need additional information
prior to our meeting, please contact me at the above referenced address or telephone number. I
look forward to speaking with you.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Numa Lion
UAFS—Career Services
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center #232 | 5210 Grand Avenue | Fort Smith, Arkansas 72913
(479) 788-7017 | FAX (479) 424-6017 | careerservices@uafs.edu
Updated: 7/10/2015
NUMA LION
5210 Grand Avenue
Fort Smith, Arkansas 72913
(479) 788-7000
numalion@gmail.com
January 15, 20xx
Ms. Dianne Allen, Personnel Director
Conway Public School District
2220 Prince Street
Conway, AR 72034
Ms. Allen,
As a May 20xx graduate of the University of Arkansas—Fort Smith School of Education, I am
currently seeking an opportunity to teach elementary education. I have excellent supporting
qualifications for this position and would appreciate your careful consideration of my credentials
as presented in the enclosed placement file.
I believe that I have the necessary skills and experience to be a contributing team member of the
Conway Public Schools. In addition to my practicum and internship classes, I have had the
opportunity to work with youth as volunteer Sunday school teacher and substitute teacher. As
my resume indicates, I am sure I have the qualifications you are looking for in a middle school
teacher.
I would welcome the opportunity for a personal interview. If you need any additional
information prior to our meeting, please contact me by phone at (479) 788-7000 or by email at
numalion@gmail.com. I look forward to speaking with you.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Numa Lion
UAFS—Career Services
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center #232 | 5210 Grand Avenue | Fort Smith, Arkansas 72913
(479) 788-7017 | FAX (479) 424-6017 | careerservices@uafs.edu
Updated: 7/10/2015
NUMA LION
5210 Grand Avenue
Fort Smith, Arkansas 72913
(479) 788-7000
numalion@gmail.com
January 15, 20xx
Jerry Valentine, Principal
Alma High School
916 Hwy 64 East
Alma, AR 72921
Dear Mr. Valentine:
I am writing in response to the teaching position in English and oral communications at Alma
High School. I learned about the position through current staff members at Alma High School.
My passion for teaching has been shaped by my own experiences as a former student at Alma
High School. Having completed my recent internship under Mr. Jones has also been beneficial.
He is certainly one that I would like to emulate in my own teaching career. Without a doubt
these two experiences have reinforced my passion for wanting to come back to the school that
has given me so much.
As my resume indicates, I am a pending May 20xx Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education
graduate from the University of Arkansas—Fort Smith.
Thank you for your consideration and time. I look forward to meeting with you soon for an
interview to discuss my qualifications. You may contact me via phone at (479) 788-7000 or at
numalion@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Numa Lion
UAFS—Career Services
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center #232 | 5210 Grand Avenue | Fort Smith, Arkansas 72913
(479) 788-7017 | FAX (479) 424-6017 | careerservices@uafs.edu
Updated: 7/10/2015