Career Services

Resumes and Cover Letters

Key Ingredients of a Resume Resume Samples Action / Skills Word List Developing a Cover Letter Sample Cover Letters

Career Services

Phone: (807) 475-6110 Email: career@confederationc.on.ca

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Resume…………………………………………...…...1 Definition……..…………………………………...……1 Key Ingredients………………………………………..1 Where to begin………………………………………...2 Formats / Sample Headings………………………...3 Sample Chronological Resume……………………...4 Sample Functional Resume……….…………….......5 Sample Combination Resume……………………….6 Appearance…………………………………………...........7 Skills /Action word Lists …………………………...… 7-11 Resume Remedies….………………………………….....12 Accomplishment Memory Jogger………………………..13 The Cover Letter……….………………………………….14 Developing a Cover Letter….………………...……...14-16 Sample Letter for Prospective Vacancy……….……….17 Sample Job Advertisement and Response Letter…18-19 Letter for Specific Vacancy………………………..……..19

Career Services

Phone: (807) 475-6110 Email: career@confederationc.on.ca

THE RESUME

A resume is a personal marketing tool designed to open the door for an in-person job interview. It should summarize education, work experience, achievements, activities and skills. It should sell you to prospective employers in the same way an advertisement entices you to purchase a product. It is the first impression of you, and from it the employer will decide if they want to meet you.

Key Ingredients

Profile: This is an optional heading that can be used as a way to highlight personality, skills,

major accomplishments, and objectives. It is designed to catch the attention of the employer and explain what you have to offer. Ensure you match your skills, accomplishments, etc to the position you are applying for.

Career Objective: This is also an optional category used to tailor a resume for a specific

position. When composing the resume ensure that it is specific enough to relate to the employer but does not eliminate you from other employment opportunities. Some applicants choose to state their objective in a cover letter so it can be tailored to the individual.

Education and Training: Related education is a key component of your resume. If you are a

recent graduate with little experience, your education should appear before your work experience.

State the name of the institution, its location (city and province), program name, years attended

and the diploma, degree or certificate awarded. Remember, an employer reading your resume may be unfamiliar with the program you studied. It is advisable to include a brief description of the courses you have completed.

Specialized training courses and seminars should be included and are especially important if they relate to the type of position you are applying for. They demonstrate a dedication to continued growth and an interest in your chosen career. Include these courses with your other education or in a separate section of your resume. Reference to high school education is not always necessary. It is assumed that you have a secondary school diploma or equivalent once you have been accepted into a post-secondary diploma program.

Experience: Related experience is gained through employment (full-time, part-time or

temporary) as well as co-operative education or field placements. Be sure to include your volunteer work. List all experience under one heading in your resume or separate work experience, field placement and volunteer work/ List the company name, location, dates and job title. Provide a description of the work performed emphasizing achievements rather than job duties. The use of action verbs from our Self Assessment Manual may be helpful. Avoid the use

of technical terms or abbreviations which may be unfamiliar to the person reviewing your resume.

Awards and Achievements: List awards you have recently received and provide a brief

explanation of the award criteria.

Skills: Some applicants highlight key skills in a separate section of the resume. They feel these

skills are essential to the prospective employer. With employers now placing importance on “soft skills, hard skills or learned skills” it is critical for the applicant to be familiar with their skill sets.

Personal Data: Your name, address, telephone number and email address should appear at the

top of page 1 of your resume. When listing your telephone number, keep in mind that prospective employers will likely try to reach you during the day and for this reason an alternate telephone number on your resume is a good idea. Personal information such as age, sex, marital status, social insurance number or health card number should not be included on your resume. The Human Rights Code prohibits employers

from using this information in their hiring decisions. They are aware of their responsibilities under the Code and do not want information included on resumes that could be regarded as evidence of discrimination.

Activities and Interests: While this section is optional, many employers read it with interest.

Select activities and interests that reflect a positive image related to the type of position you are applying for. Employers are looking for information on what you do in your spare time. This can be an indication of your time management skills, the balance you have in life and your level of energy and enthusiasm.

Reference: References are optional, however, be sure to bring them with you to an interview.

Choose your references carefully. They should have credibility with employers. Obtain permission to use their names as a reference in advance and ask what information they will provide to employers. Two or three business references are sufficient.

Where to Begin The first step in preparing a resume is self-assessment. A comprehensive analysis must be done of your education, work experience, skills and abilities. To assist you with the process, refer to our Self Assessment Booklet. You must ensure your resume is tailored to the position you are applying for. Use the following worksheet to assist you with that processes.

Required Qualification Outlined in Job Description

My skills / experience that match the Qualification

Demonstration of skills / work accomplishments

Sample Headings

You can decide how the above information can be organized and categorized. Remember your resume is your selling tool and you should be comfortable with its appearance. Some headings you may consider are:

Once you have gathered the necessary information, it is time to start building your resume. You must decide what format you would like to use and which one is better suited for your resume. Examples appear on the following pages. Chronological: Most popular with recruiters and the most commonly used format. It lists work

history and education starting with the most recent date. Advantages are that 85% of employers prefer the chronological format,. It is generally accepted, appeals to conservative businesses and allows a quick analysis of your experience.. Disadvantages: general attributes are not emphasized. Gaps in employment or education are apparent and numerous job changes are obvious. Functional: A functional resume emphasizes major skills and qualifications and focuses on

accomplishments rather than education and work history. People who have changed jobs frequently or who have gaps in their employment records may refer to the functional resume. It can be tailored to match career goals with job requirements. Combination Resume: The combination resume draws on the best features of the chronological

and functional resumes. It emphasizes a candidate’s capabilities and includes a complete job history. For recent graduates, this resume is a good choice as it enables them to profile what they can do for a prospective employer.

FORMATS

PROFILE AWARDS / ACHIEVMENTS REFERENCES EDUCATION WORKSHOPS / SEMINARS LICENCES WORK EXPERIENCE SKILLS / ABILITIES CERTIFICATIONS COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS

Sample Chronological

Peter Patter 123 Employment Ave, Thunder Bay, ON P7C 2W2

(807) 123-4567

PROFILE A creative, organized individual skilled and educated in Interior Design with proven ability to interact

with customers and assist with their decorating and décor needs

EDUCATION

2004-2006 Confederation College Thunder Bay, ON Interior Design Diploma

Courses included, Architectural Drafting, Drawing, Design Studio and English.

Honours Graduate; Deans List Recipient semesters 1-4

Maintained 3.85% Average

2000-2004 Dryden High School Dryden, ON Ontario Secondary School Diploma

Captain of Football and member of Volleyball Team

Valedictorian of 2004 graduating class

EXPERIENCE

1998 Jensen Design Thunder Bay, ON Design Consultant (Co-op)

Assisted customers in finding furniture and accessories to meet their decorating ideas and needs

Created floor and window displays.

Organized manufacturer and customer shipments.

1996-1997 Sooters Photography Dryden, ON Portrait / Lab Technician

Scheduled portraits; shoots included weddings, children and animals

Responsible for the quality control, testing, developing and printing of colour, black and white.

Sold camera equipment and accessories

1994-1995 Jack’s Bistro Dryden, ON Waiter

Provided customer service and processed customer orders

Organized, cleaned and maintained kitchen

Employee of the month recipient

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Speak and write French fluently

Won first place in the Advertising Art Society Student Show, 2005. Enjoy drawing and watercolors.

Traveled extensively through Europe and Canada

REFERENCES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Sample Functional

Jane Robertson 402-100 Anywhere Street

Thunder Bay, Ontario

P7C 2W8

(807) 767-1400

EXPERIENCE: 2000 to present CHAIRPERSON, Board of Directors, Volunteer Bureau

1998 to 2000 ORGANIZER, Committee Room, Alderperson Smith

1996 to 1998 MANAGER, General Hospital Tuck Shop

1992 to 1996 CHAIRPERSON, Fundraising Drive, Canadian Cancer Society

SKILLS: ADMINISTRATION Recruited and trained volunteer staff for the Canadian Cancer Society Fund Raising Drive, the General Hospital Tuck Shop and Municipal election. Allocated work assignments and supervised the volunteer staff in these projects. Recruited and supervised paid staff for Volunteer PUBLIC RELATIONS Developed and hosted Cable TV programs on “The Role of Volunteers in Social Services” and “Recreational Facilities for the Pre-school Children” Wrote and distributed press releases and newsletters for the Rate payers Association and the Volunteer Bureau. Produced a twice yearly brochure for my alderperson distributed to area residents. FUNDRAISING Extensive experience in all aspects of fund raising; door to door canvassing; recruitment and supervision of volunteers; management of funds. Organized and implemented the fund raising campaigns of the Canadian Cancer Society for five years. BUDGETING Managed the funds raised in the General Hospital Tuck Shop and

allocated money to hospital service. As Chairperson of the Volunteer Bureau Board of Directors, administered the Bureau’s budget.

EDUCATION:

2006-PRESENT Confederation College Thunder Bay, ON Currently working on a Diploma in Business Administration. REFERENCES: Available upon request.

Sample Combination

JUDITH CLARK

1999 Grand Avenue, Suite 29 ● Orillia, Ontario ● L3V 4B1 ● (705) 555-1201

HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE BOOKKEEPING

Computed and prepared monthly billings.

Maintained records of daily income and prepared agency’s bank deposits.

Calculated payroll deductions: income taxes, CPP, UIC and Pension.

Developed monthly Financial Report for Board of Directors.

OFFICE COORDINATION/SCHEDULING

Created an efficient filing system and organized records into readily retrievable form.

Coordinated wide range of office functions:

Supervised repairs of office equipment.

Performed minor repairs and maintenance.

Researched resources and selected new office equipment.

Ordered supplies.

Scheduled interviews for job applicants.

Responded by mail to employer requests for insurance related information; devised form letter for

responding to inquiries from job applicants. COMPUTER DATA ENTRY

Accurately entered personnel data for over 100 applicants, updated and maintained each applicant’s

records.

Experienced with WordPerfect 5.1, Lotus 1-2-3 and ACCPAC software.

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

1999-present Receptionist/Bookkeeper Acme Bookkeeping, Barrie, Ontario 1994-1998 Housekeeper Self-employed, Orillia, Ontario 1992-1994 Accounts Payable/Cashier Community Market, Orillia, Ontario

EDUCATION

2003-present Business Accounting Georgian College, Barrie, Ontario

REFERENCES AVAILABE UPON REQUEST

Exceptionally responsible, diligent, and thorough.

Fast learner with a wide range of practical skills.

Special talent and written office skills.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

85% average Accounting courses.

APPEARANCE

Make sure your name is prominently displayed at the top of the page.

Have your resume neatly printed on good quality 8-1/2” x 11” paper.

Limit the length to two pages.

Appearance should be neat and consistent (underlining, capital letters, bold print, indentations, etc.)

Ensure your resume is ERROR FREE. Even if it is professionally produced ,check it over VERY

CAREFULLY! One error could eliminate you from the competition.

Use language that is descriptive and adds strength to your resume.

Remember that someone reading your resume will be assessing your written communication skills.

Your resume should be focused on your career path.

Don’t fold or staple your resume.

Use 10 to 14 point type because anything bigger or smaller may be misread.

Use bold lettering in the right places to catch the eye of the employer.

Ensure you are comfortable with the information on your resume. Employers will be asking questions based on the information you provide. You want to be able to expand on your skills and qualifications.

SKILLS IDENTIFICATION Today’s employers are extremely aware of the need to hire employees who are the right match or “fit” for their organizational culture. To find this fit, an ever increasing number of employers are placing as much importance on the “soft skills” of an employee as on the “hard or learned skills”. Identifying your skill set and highlighting these strengths in a concise manner on your resume and being able to address them in an interview situation are critical to your being hired. Although skills identification is a must, many students find this process to be very challenging. The following are lists of skills that may be helpful in resume building.

PERSONAL SKILLS

Humor

Self confidence

Drive

Risk taking

Athletic

Optimistic

Warmth

Initiative

Respect for diversity

Vitality

Assertive

Physically fit

Sincerity

Loyalty

Maturity

Vision

Diversified interests

Reliability

Ethics

Co-operation

Intelligence

Global thinking

Inner strength

Honesty

Energy

Accountability

Responsible

Attention to details

Sensitivity

Integrity

Determination

Enthusiasm

Thoughtful

Depth

Ability to get along with

others

WORK/KNOWLEDGE-SPECIFIC SKILLS

Laboratory

Public relations

Social research

Policy analysis

Newsletter-writing

Telemarketing

Emergency nursing

Travel consultant

Graphic design

Languages

Accounting

Waste management

Field-testing

Computer programming

Benefits/compensation

Translation

Drafting

Jewelry-making

LAN management

Interior design

Word processing

Commercial banking

Systems analysis

Psychological testing

Strength testing

Psychometric readings

Customer Service

TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

Thinking critically

Research

Reading and

comprehension

Mathematical

Team

Delegating

Collaborating

Classifying

Musical

Management

Program development

Decision making

Time management

Leadership

Selling

Setting policy

Operating equipment

Scheduling

Effective communication

Analyze

Organization

Problem solving

Computer / internet

Demonstration instruction

Negotiation

Motivation

Information gathering

Writing

Interviewing

Financial planning

Language

Teaching

Persuasion

Coaching

Artistic

Trouble shooting

Drafting

Listening

Presentation

Creativity

Goal setting

Design

Influence

Testing

Budgeting

Building

Observation

Positive attitude

E-mail

Training

Debating

Evaluating

Assembling

Promoting

Adaptability

COMMUNICATIONS

Purchase

Distribute

Interpret and translate

Represent and recruit

Write correspondence/

materials

Public speaking

Exchange ideas

Correspond

Read

Promote/sell

Listen

Negotiate

Speak multiple languages

Addressed

Arranged

Collaborated

Edited

Recruited

Spoke

Mediated

ORGANIZATIONAL

Manage

Record keep

Time management

Delegate

Decision making

Event planning

Administer

System development

Plan

Coordinate

Arrange

Program development

Schedule

Catalogued

Systemized

Streamlined

Prioritized

Implemented

Collected

Compiled

COMPUTATION / PROCESSING INFORMATION

Quantitative

Monitor

Estimate

Balance

Measure

Calculate

Accounting and

bookkeeping

Inspect

Computing and data

processing

Budget

Survey

CREATIVE

Arrange and display

Perform

Generate new ideas

Visualize new concepts

Write poetry, plays, novels

Design

Compose

Invent

Decorate

Sketch, paint, and

photography

Developed

Directed

Introduced

Founded

Planned

Revitalized

Procured

Refined

Redesigned

Shaped

ACTION WORD LIST

MANAGEMENT

Administered

Analyzed

Consolidated

Coordinated

Delegated

Developed

Directed

Evaluated

Improved

Increased

Organized

Oversee

Planned

Prioritized

Recommended

Scheduled

Strengthened

Supervised

COMMUNICATION

Addressed

Arbitrated

Arranged

Collaborated

Convinced

Developed

Drafted

Edited

Explained

Formulated

Interpreted

Negotiated

Persuaded

Promoted

Publicized

Recruited

Translated

Wrote

RESEARCH

Clarified

Collected

Critiqued

Diagnosed

Evaluated

Examined

Extracted

Identified

Inspected

Interpreted

Interviewed

Investigated

Organized

Summarized

Surveyed

Systematized

TECHNICAL

Assembled

Built

Calculated

Computed

Designed

Devised

Engineered

Executed

Fabricated

Maintained

Operated

Overhauled

Programmed

Remodeled

Repaired

Solved

Upgraded

Adapted

Advised

Clarified

Coached

Communicated

Coordinated

Developed

Enabled

Encouraged

Evaluated

Explained

Facilitated

Guided

Informed

Instructed

Persuaded

Set goals

Trained

TEACHING

Administered

Allocated

Analyzed

Appraised

Audited

Balanced

Budgeted

Calculated

Computed

Developed

Forecasted

Managed

Marketed

Planned

Projected

Researched

FINANCIAL

CREATIVE

Assessed

Conceptualized

Created

Customized

Designed

Developed

Directed

Established

Founded

Illustrated

Initiated

Instituted

Introduced

Invented

Originated

Performed

HELPING

Assisted

Clarified

Coached

Counseled

Demonstrated

Diagnosed

Educated

Expedited

Facilitated

Familiarized

Guided

Motivated

Referred

Represented

CLERICAL

Approved

Catalogued

Classified

Collected

Compiled

Generated

Inspected

Monitored

Operated

Organized

Prepared

Processed

Purchased

Recorded

Screened

Specified

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Achieved

Expanded

Improved

Pioneered

Reduced

Resolved

Restored

Spearheaded

Transformed

1. Do not be vague. Customize your resume for the employer. . If you try to use a one-size-fits-all

approach (by agency, computer, or passing a resume around an organization with a friend), you will lose the opportunity to craft the resume to fit a particular position. 2. Keep it current. Continually update your resume as you gain more knowledge, skills and experience

3. Do not confuse a resume and a curriculum vitae. The latter is for employers who will want to know

all about what you’ve studied, taught, written, researched, exhibited. Resume readers want a quick summary of what you’ve done with just enough details to let them know the depth of your skills. The rest they’ll find out in the interview. 4. Students and recent graduates should highlight their studies. Place your education at the top

and include relevant courses. Highlight projects, accomplishments and knowledge gained that pertains to the job you are applying to 5. Find out which skills the employer is seeking and be sure to showcase them. If you are short on

actual job experience, include a “Highlights” or “Skills Summary” section to explain your strengths, use transferable skills that are related to the job you are applying for. 6. Be clear about what you want. For example, if you intend to be both a full-time student and a full-

time employee as this may be not acceptable to some employers. 7. Use verb phrases, not sentences. This is not a school essay or an editorial for the local paper that your are writing, so don’t worry about having complete sentences. Phrases such as these will work well for the purposes of a resume: “Conceived campaign for student elections”, “Created online student newspaper”. “Initiated weekly meetings for minority students.” 8. Use dates to show when you did things. Refrain from vague references such as “one year.” State

the years worked instead of months, days, etc. 9. Never overlook spelling or typing errors. Check and recheck your spelling.

10. Have an “experience” Section. For new graduates without much work experience, it is preferable

to have a section titled “Employment” or “Experience” where you can highlight, internships, class projects, and independent studies. 11. Know what you have accomplished. Listing results, achievements and success should be the foundation for your resume. Employers want to know that you are an asset and can bring value to an organization. Ensure they are factual and tailored to the position you are applying for. The following Accomplishment Memory Jogger should help out with that.

RESUME REMEDIES

ACCOMPLISHMENT MEMORY JOGGER

Describe a situation were you solved a problem or took charge of a situation. Give an example of something you created and how it was used. Describe your efforts in a team setting that produced results. What were the results? What have you done to motivate others or help them reach a goal? (School or work related)

It is said that first impressions have a significant impact on the outcome of a candidate’s chance for employment. If this is true, is the cover letter, in most cases not the first impression an employer sees? Can a good cover letter truly make the difference in securing an interview? ABSOLUTELY!!!

To understand why this document is so important, look at the kind of insight a potential employer gains from a covering letter. The most important observations made from this document are:

Written communication skills

Organization skills

Overall focus and priorities

Personal style/social skills

Technical knowledge

Business and/or management philosophy

Management style SOME BASIC COVER LETTER GUIDELINES

Quote the file or competition number at the beginning of the letter.

The contents of the letter should directly relate to the advertisement. Be sure to highlight

corresponding experience and accomplishments

Make the covering letter as interesting as possible, error free, and job related

If there is a particular qualification or expertise highlighted in the advertisement which is not obvious in your resume, emphasize it in your cover letter

Don’t forget to sign the letter!!!

No more than 1 page in length

Gear your letter to the particular job you are applying for

Modify the cover letter to the particular job you are interested in. Explain why this company/

organization appeals to you.

Do not repeat your resume.

READER VERSUS WRITER-CENTERED WRITING

Direct the writing toward the readers’ requirements and interests

The most important points are listed first or are highlighted

Use short sentences and paragraphs

Use personal pronouns

Avoid technical terms

Content is based on what the reader needs to know

Sequence of information is based on decreasing level of importance to the reader

THE COVER LETTER

DEVELOPING A COVER LETTER

Your street No. and Street, City, Province, Postal Code Month, Day, Year Name of Employer/Contact Correct title of position. Name of Organization, agency board or commission Street number and street name City, Province, postal code

Dear (NAME) RE: COMPETITION # 55624SUP Opening Paragraph: state why you are writing;

specify position or type of work for which you are applying. You should mention how you became aware of this position. Middle paragraph: relate your skills, interests, knowledge

and abilities to the needs of the employer; point out relevant training, education, and employment; elaborate on your field work, extra-curricular, and volunteer experience, if appropriate. Explain why you are interested in working for the employer. Specify your reasons for wanting this type of work. Try to convince the employer of your skill ability and interest. Closing paragraph: Thank the employer for taking the time to review your application

and indicate that you are looking forward to meeting with them to further discuss your qualifications. Be sure to Include your contact information where you can be reached during daytime business hours Yours sincerely, (sign your letter) Your name typed here

Use 8 1/2 x 11 good quality paper

Use complete title, address and correct spelling.

Use name rather than “Dear Sir or Madame”.

Reference the Job opening or competition #

Organize contents of these paragraphs to suit your needs. Emphasize your most appropriate skills for the job.

Use high quality stationary (white, beige or ivory)

with matching envelopes

568 Flanders Court Tiergarden, Ontario J7E 4X4 (565) 993-9909

Match the colour paper of the cover letter to the colour paper of your resume.

May 4th, 2011

Melissa Burns President Burns Electric PO Box 696 Tivoli, Ontario H5H 0G0

Address letter to a person by name.

Do not photocopy your cover letter, use an original printed document

Summarize your most important skills and

Dear Melissa Burns, I am applying for the position of Plant Safety Officer that was advertised in the April 29th, issue of the Tiergarden Picayune-Tribune. As my enclosed resume indicates, I have developed strong written and oral communication skills through my participation in many presentations and assignments. My courses in Occupational Health and Safety have given me a deep understanding of the importance of health and safety in the workplace. I am particularly proud of a Health and Safety seminar I prepared for my training class. I was asked to prepare and present a seminar to the maintenance staff at Tivoli Gardens college of Applied Arts and Science by my program coordinator and the maintenance department manager. I am impressed with the reputation of your organization in the field of Industrial Health and Safety. I feel that my combination of experience and education will make me a valued member of Burns Electric. Thank you for taking the time to review my application and I look forward to meeting with you to further discuss my qualifications. I may be reached anytime at 993-9909. Sincerely, Bartholomew J. Simpson Enclosure

Thank them for considering you

State why you are writing, and the specific position you are applying for. Mention how you became aware of the position.

Sample Cover letter

RE: COMPITION # 5152SPU

LETTER FOR PROSPECTIVE VACANCY

2112 Career Path Thunder Bay, Ontario P5B 5C5 (807) 555-5555 May 19, 2004 Jane Blayney Director of Human Resources People Count Inc. 300 Employer Street East Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 1F8 Dear Jane Blayney, I am seeking a challenging opportunity in the Human Resources Management field and have enclosed my resume for your future consideration. As my resume indicates, I have developed strong written and verbal skills through numerous workshops and public speaking assignments. Further, you will notice my field placement had a recruitment emphasis, which allowed me to become knowledgeable and confident with this process. I am particularly proud of my ability to be pro-active in my own learning and thrive on new opportunities. I have been impressed by the progressive attitude your organization has demonstrated in the area of Human Resource Management. I feel my combination of experience and personal qualities will make me a valued member of the People Court team. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to the prospect of further discussing my qualifications with you at your convenience. I may be reached anytime at 555-5454. Sincerely, Mary Ann Worthit

SPECIFIC JOB ADVERTISEMENT

ASSISTANT CONTROLLER

Superior Products is a quality manufacturer/distributor of individual components for various industry segments.

We require a professional accountant to manage and direct all of the company’s accounting functions. The individual will report directly to the Manager and be responsible for all accounting related activities

within the company.

Management is seeking an individual with an interest in accounting in a manufacturing setting. They should possess a

recognized professional designation and have superior verbal and written communication skills. Strong computer skills are

essential. The successful candidate should be a self-starter and be able to work with minimal supervision.

Please forward covering letter and resume to:

Glen Boss General Manager Superior Products 321 Workers Road

Thunder Bay, Ontario P5B 4R4

LETTER FOR JOB SPECIFIC ADVERTISMENT

3344 Yellow Brick Road Thunder Bay, Ontario P7N 8J8 (807)555-5555 May 19th, 2011 Glen Boss General Manager Superior Products 321 Workers Road Thunder Bay, Ontario P5B 4R4 Dear Glen Boss: Please accept my application for the position of Assistant Controller as advertised on May 15th, 2011 in the Chronicle Journal. As you will notice from my enclosed resume, I am an excellent match -for your requirements. I am a recent graduate from the Business Accounting Program at Confederation College where I was a Deans Certificate recipient. My field placement at BioAir Inc. and Hartland Supplies provided me with exposure to several settings in my field including manufacturing. During my academic and placement experience I worked extensively with a variety of computer programs such as Word, Excel and Power Point. I am well versed both in verbal and written communications which was commended throughout my post secondary education in assignments and presentations. As a flexible person, I work well independently or as a member of a team. I feel the qualifications and experience I have gained will make me a valued member of the Superior Products team. Thank you for taking the time to review my application and I look forward to meeting with you to further discuss my qualifications. I can be reached anytime at (807) 555-5555. Sincerely, John Candidate Enclosure

Ensure to match your skills to those the employer outlined in the job description