CMU Career Guide Central Michigan University Career Guide | Page 19

cover letter KARI McGUIDE 1 100 Pickard St., Apt. 45
• Mount Pleasant, MI
• [phone]
• [email protected] August 1, 2014 2 Mr. John P. Johnston Vice President Ajax Accounting Company 555 Tamarack Drive Billings, ND 55221 3 Greetings Mr. Johnston: 4 1 Create a consistent look for your application materials by using the same heading as your resume. 2 When you are e-mailing, mailing, or posting the letter, be sure to include the date. 3 When possible, address the letter to a Thank you, once again, for speaking with me during your recent visit to the City College of New York’s Accounting Career Day. I enjoyed learning more about your background in forensic accounting and the Staff Accounting positions available with Ajax. During our meeting, you suggested that I send my resume and cover letter to you as application for the position. 5 As I complete my Accounting major and the required 150 credits to be eligible for the CPA exam, there are several classes that have prepared me for the Staff Accountant position. In the Auditing and Accounting class, for example, we had to complete five case studies on different departments at the College. We were given limited access to their past year’s financial statements to determine any discrepancies and we were able to present cost-saving recommendations to the Deans or Directors in each area. I also completed two Forensic Accounting classes which through case study and “real-world” application, gave me necessary auditing and detail skills needed to succeed with Ajax. My advisor, Dr. Taxguy, also gave students the opportunity to prepare taxes for students at the College through his annual “Get Tax Help” program. I have completed over 35 tax returns through this hands-on program. Communication skills are essential in this position as I would be meeting with clients and traveling to corporate locations to complete audits. As the president of two organizations on campus and having spent a semester in Italy, I have focused on developing strong communication and interpersonal skills. In addition, I have worked for two consecutive summers (and over holiday breaks) in the clothing retail field. I don’t have to tell you that communication skills are a must when handling returns the day after a major holiday in a high-traffic mall! specific person. Use proper business letter formatting for their contact information. If you absolutely don’t know his/her name, use “To Whom It May Concern.” 4 Show enthusiasm in your salutation instead of the common “Dear Mr. Last Name.” 6 As demonstrated on my resume, I have a strong overall grade point average and have been on the College of Business Dean’s List every semester. I also have two internship experiences, both in different aspects of accounting and finance, where I was allowed to put into practice the skills learned in my coursework at City College. I know the skills attained in my coursework, through internship and work experiences, and from my co-curricular involvements make my well qualified for this position. I look forward to speaking 7 with you further about the position; my contact information is above and I can be reached at anytime if you need additional information about my candidacy. 5 INTRODUCTION: • • • • Thank You For Your Time, Kari McGuide 8 6 BODY: Kari McGuide • • Even if the job posting does not require a cover letter, it is highly recommended to submit a cover letter with your application and resume! Identify the position you are seeking. Mention names/titles of any referrals. Thank the person for past communication. Connect through common skills, experiences, goals that fit the posting/employer and why you are interested. 7 CONCLUSION: Summarize your qualifications and mention when you are available (relocating to a specific area, interview, or hire). • • 8 In a physical letter, leave room to sign your name. In a digital letter, there is no need for signature. Highlight and expand on your strongest qualifications that match the position and employer’s culture. Develop themes based on experiences or skills that match the requirements of the posting description. Include transferrable skills, industry specific skills, or experiences. Provide concrete evidence throughout to showcase skills. Avoid generic statements that are not validated with any specific information. 19