o       have a thesaurus handy so you can choose words that are appropriate for what you want to say, but will still catch the reader’s attention

o       whenever possible, address your letter to a specific person; if you are answering an ad for a teaching position, and no name is given, send your letter to the district superintendent;

o       use the Connecticut Education Directory (http://www.csde.state.ct.us/public/csde/reports/reportsection.asp),

a school district’s web site (http://www.kids.state.ct.us/schools.htm?ctportalPNavCtr=|27298|#27301 ),

or a town’s web site (http://www.ct.gov/ctportal/cwp/view.asp?a=843&q=257266&ctportalPNavCtr=|27610|#38191)

to locate the correct name of the superintendent or personnel director

o       print your letter on the same color paper as your resume

o       use light colored paper, such as pale blue, pale gray, cream, or pale buff….they stand out among a pile of other white papers, drawing initial attention to your letter over another

o       be sure to check your spelling, punctuation, and grammar carefully for accuracy

o       stay away from anything ‘cutesy,’ such as paper shaped like a train, paper with a ‘teacher’ border, or colored ink

o       always type your letter in a font and font size that is easy to read

o       keep your letter to one page, using wider margins and/or a different font, if necessary

o       never hand write your letter or envelope….print using a good quality printer or typewriter.

There are 2 ‘basic’ approaches to writing an introductory letter: a more ‘traditional-business-like’ approach, and a more ‘relaxed-business-like’ approach.  The differences in the styles lie with both the language and tone you use, and the way in which your letter is set up.  See the sample ‘traditional’ and ‘relaxed’ introductory letters.

Most university career offices have print information available to help you create your introductory cover letter, and many run special sessions that can help you get started.  Click on the links below for more information about letter writing.

UConn Career Services list of cover letter writing workshops:

http://www.career.uconn.edu/frame.php?studentsug.html

UConn Career Services sample cover letters:

http://www.career.uconn.edu/frame.php?studentsug.html

ProfessinalTeacher.com web site – cover letters:

http://www.professionalteacher.com/home/career_center_sample_cover_letter_with_template.cfm?s=026.b0802151z.001f511k11