university of manitoba cover letter

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University Of Manitoba

• Computer Science

Cover Letter Do's And Don'ts

Undergraduate co-op program general information.

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Undergraduate Co-op Program Detailed Information

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Don't waste the first paragraph by writing a boring introduction or one that you have seen on sample co-op cover letters. Use the first paragraph to grab the employer's attention. Give the employer reason to keep reading!

Do send an original letter to each employer. Some sentences can be re-used from letter to letter but each letter must be individualized to match the requirements for the position.

Don't use statements such as "Enclosed please find my resume" or "As you can see on my resume enclosed herewith". Employers can see that your resume is enclosed!

Don't use wordy phrases; ruthlessly eliminate all unnecessary words.

Do use simple language and uncomplicated sentence structure.

Don’t send a cover letter that contains any typos, misspellings, incorrect grammar or punctuation, smudges, or grease from yesterday’s lunch.

Do keep your letter brief. Never more than one page and preferably not even a full page.

Do try to answer the question that the employer will be asking while reading your letter: “Why should I hire this person?”

Don't use your cover letter to rehash your resume. Use your cover letter to highlight the points on your resume that are relevant to the position not to repeat everything in your resume.

Do avoid negativity. This includes pointing out things requested by the employer that you do not currently have!

Do use action verbs. A complete list of action verbs sorted by Skills Categories can be found at http://www.quintcareers.com/action_skills.html .

Don't forget to sign the letter, preferably in blue or black ink.

- adapted from: http://quintcareers.com

Computer Science Co-op Program

Copyright 2002-2014  Lisa Wise  Co-op Coordinator Department of Computer Science Privacy Statement

Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2 P: 204.474.8695 F: 204.474.7609

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COVER LETTER GUIDE ASPER MBA - CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE - University of Manitoba

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Careers in the Manitoba Government: Resumes, cover letters, and more

Mon. Mar. 18 12:30 PM - Mon. Mar. 18 01:30 PM

Join Zachary Allard (UW Career Services) who will share insights on crafting a stand-out resume, cover letter, and networking techniques for landing a successful career in the Manitoba Government.

Participants may submit any questions they have for the panelists at the registration link below.

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Your Guide to Cover Letters

What is a cover letter.

A cover letter is a professional communication that should accompany your resume when you apply for a job or internship. A cover letter is the first piece of information a potential employer sees about you. If effective, it should pique an employer's interest and encourage them to move on to your resume with stronger conviction.

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A good cover letter:

• Answers the question: “How will you help the organization meet their goals?”
• Links your accomplishments and skills to the job requirements. Why should they care about the items in your resume? Lay out how and why you would make a difference at this organization.
• Is unique for the particular position. You should not re-use cover letters for multiple positions.
• Should focus on how you will contribute to the organization, not just provide your life story.
• Does not reiterate your resume, but provides context for some of the items on your resume.

Preparation and Organization

• Carefully review the job description and identify key skills and experiences that the employer is looking for.
• Include your address and the employer's address in blocks at the top of the page.
• Whenever possible, address your letter to an individual within the organization rather than "To Whom it May Concern." Review the job description or organization's website, or call the organization to obtain the name and position title of the contact. If you cannot find the information, start your letter with " Dear Search Committee, ".
• Your cover letter should be no more than one page and will typically have 3-4 paragraphs. You do not need to indent paragraphs.

Paragraph 1: Introduction

Explain why you are applying to this particular position and this particular organization. What is interesting, exciting, or unique about the role or company? This could be their culture, size, location, mission, products, constituents, projects, etc. Why are these important to you? Provide the name of the position you are applying to within this paragraph. Optionally, you can mention who referred you to the job or internship.

Paragraph 2: Body

How will you help this organization meet their goals through work in this position? In addition to addressing your experiences and skills, detail why they would matter for this position. Analyze the job description and be specific about how your skills/experiences connect to the position responsibilities. You can use the format: “I have had experience doing ABC, which would enable me to accomplish [these goals] in this position.”

Paragraph 3: Closing

Reiterate your interest in the position and thank the reader for their time and consideration. Close by signing your name (typed is fine).

Putting it all Together

Review examples of cover letters to get an idea of how they can look (but be sure not to copy them -- yours should be unique!). Ask someone (a Career Center or Writing Center staff member) to proofread your letter for its effectiveness, tone, and grammar.

Sample Cover Letters

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Cover letters

What to include.

You can include information like:

• competencies
• credentials
• types of experiences 
• demonstrated accomplishments

If you're responding to a job posting:

• identify the organization
• refer to the position you’re applying for
• address an individual who is hiring (if possible)
• describe how your experiences and skills match the requirements of the position and how this will be benefit the employer
• avoid just repeating information from your resume – this is your chance to provide some context

If you're sending a letter to an employer who isn't currently hiring:

• identify the type of position you’re interested in
• explain why you're contacting the organization or person
• outline how your experience and competencies will bring value
• indicate when and how you’re going to follow up

How to structure it

Every cover letter is different, so this is just a suggestion of what you may want to include.

Introductory paragraph

• state your purpose and why you are applying
• list the job title and organization name
• show that you’ve researched the organization, such as referencing its mission or vision statement
• indicate your enthusiasm and state what you’ll bring to the organization

Middle paragraph or paragraphs

• use an active voice
• group information around the job requirements (e.g., your organizational skills)
• avoid starting every sentence with “I”
• use transition phrases (e.g., additionally, also)
• give solid examples of your past experience and the skills you bring as a result

Closing paragraph

• thank the organization
• criminal record check, age limit, citizenship/residency, driver’s license
• provide your contact information, if applicable
• restate your interest in the position and express interest in an interview

Keep your cover letter to 1 page unless otherwise specified. Match the font and style of your résumé.

Here are a few examples of cover letters:

Standard cover letter

Student name 250-555-5555   [email protected]

November 1, 20XX

Employer name Employer job title Employer organization

Re: Position and competition number (if provided on the job posting)

Dear employer,

I am writing to apply for the Recreation Assistant Position with School Name as posted on the UVic job site. Throughout high school and university I have been involved in peer support and special needs assistance. I have a strong belief that recreation should be available to all members of our society.

While working as a counsellor at Camp Thunderbird, I gained experience leading groups of teenagers in outdoor activities. This experience also allowed me to work with teens with special needs, helping to accommodate them so that they could get the most out of the Camp Thunderbird environment. Additionally, I have been volunteering as a peer helper at UVic, where I counsel students who are having a difficult time. These experiences have opened my eyes to how important it is to be inclusive and supportive in all environments.

My volunteer background also includes coaching athletics at the high school level, where I worked mainly with girls’ basketball and volleyball teams. During my coaching experience, I developed the interpersonal communication and leadership skills that will help me excel as a recreation assistant. My enthusiasm and dedication are key attributes that I bring to everything I do. I also have a Class 4 driver’s license.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss this position in greater detail.

Sincerely, UVic Student

• your contact information should match the information on your résumé
• include the address of the organization that is hiring
• address the cover letter to a person if possible
• use real and detailed examples to highlight your qualifications
• focus on why you’ll be an asset to the employer, not how you’ll benefit from the job
• tell the employer what other competencies you have to offer
• thank the employer for considering your application and request an interview

Job posting

This standard cover letter refers to the following job posting:

Job title: Recreation Assistant Job location: Victoria Region: Victoria (Capital Region) Salary/wage: 18.50 Hours per week: 37.5 Number of positions: 2

Job description:

The person in this position will facilitate the recreation inclusion of people with disabilities into community-based leisure and recreation opportunities. This occurs under the overall supervision of the employer name. Evaluates leisure and recreation needs of clients and the assistance they require in order to participate in community leisure and recreation opportunities. Provides assistance to individuals with disabilities while they pursue their leisure and recreation interests. Encourages relationship building by facilitating the inclusion of clients with their non-disabled peers.

Other related duties as assigned.

Skills required:

• commitment to the recreation inclusion process
• ability to work independently
• knowledge and/or experience working with people with disabilities
• good communication skills
• good organizational skills
• valid standard first aid and CPR certification
• no transcript required with your application

Special job requirements:

• Class 4 Driver’s license

Bulleted cover letter

Student name Phone: 250-555-5555    Email: [email protected]

May 1, 20XX

I recently attended a Co-op and Career Fair open to students in the Bachelor of Commerce program, and was impressed by the breadth of public services offered by your company name

After reviewing the key objectives of the bureau and learning of the GoProject initiative, I understand the need for innovation in marketing this project. I am excited to be considered for the marketing analyst position. I am a strong academic performer with comprehensive training in research and marketing and the high degree of professionalism and technical skills required to support your team in its goals.

As a student leader with more than three years’ experience in marketing, I can offer:

• familiarity with marketing principles and personal management, demonstrated by my success in several university-level marketing courses while working part-time
• ability to produce marketing materials, both online and in print
• creative and innovative thinking with experience running a small community-based arts collective
• strong research and analytical skills, developed through case competitions and volunteer experience with Researchers Ltd.
• significant experience with standard marketing tools (Adobe Creative Suite, HubSpot, Hootsuite) and statistical/database software (SPSS, Excel, Access)

As a self-motivated business student with a genuine interest in the GoProject, I look forward to sharing my strengths in an organization devoted to providing quality services to all the constituents in BC. I meet all of the funding criteria outlined in the position description and am available to begin immediately.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards, Student name

• state why the company interests you and how your skills and experience would be an asset

The bulleted cover letter refers to the following job posting:

Position: Marketing Analyst Employer: Employer name Address applications to: Employer name

This position reports to the senior marketing analyst with the employer name responsible for the GoProject Initiative and will provide general support to that role including such activities as:

• working with the team to develop a comprehensive marketing plan for the GoProject Initiative
• researching past marketing practices and best practices in other jurisdictions
• analysis of survey and test marketing results using database software (Excel/Access)
• development of marketing materials using a variety of media

Candidate qualifications:

• demonstrated interest in marketing field
• basic research skills
• strong Excel skills, familiarity with other statistical/database management software an asset
• familiarity with any marketing software would be an asset

Prospecting letter

A prospecting letter is also known as a letter of interest. It is sent to potential employers who may be hiring but who haven’t listed a specific job opening.

Employer name Employer title Employer organization

Dear Mr. Scott,

I could not pass up the opportunity to inquire about a potential employment opportunity at the National Judicial Institute. I am presently enrolled in the Master of Arts in Public Administration program at the University of Victoria. In my attached résumé, you will see I have a proven ability to design, plan and lead high-impact programs. I possess the organizational and administrative acumen needed to translate a strategic vision into a results-producing action plan. In addition, I am motivated and enthusiastic and would appreciate the opportunity to contribute to your organization’s success.

With strong communication skills and a dynamic presentation and public speaking style, let me note that one of my greatest strengths is my ability to build relationships within and outside an organization. My experience working with community groups is as extensive as it is diverse. As a consultant and program manager, I was often tasked with the administration, development and implementation of strategies to assist or improve various programs, using my natural ability to establish consensus among cross-functional lines.

Key competencies:

• proven ability to design, plan and lead high-impact training programs and curriculum and possess the necessary organizational and administrative acumen to translate a strategic vision into a results-producing action plan
• strong interpersonal skills including listening, communication and mediation skills
• manage the creation and development of training programs and materials and evaluation systems to meet the needs of internal and external stakeholders
• continuously capitalize on best practices and lessons learned in order to optimize use of available resources and ensure the key program objectives are met
• demonstrated ability to communicate at all levels of an organization
• advanced ability to think conceptually and strategically, through understanding and analyzing complex situations or problems, identifying patterns or connections and developing innovative solutions in an environment of change

I am goal oriented, driven and not afraid of hard work. I will follow up to see if we can arrange a meeting in the future.

Writing your cover letter

A general cover letter that doesn’t address the particular job posting won’t cut it. You need a cover letter that addresses the employer’s needs.

Steps to writing a cover letter

• Assess the needs of the organization and how you can bring value. For help with this, see how to deconstruct a job posting .
• Choose your format and write your first draft.
• Get feedback and make revisions.
• Proofread and submit your cover letter.

Cover letter tips

• Gather background research on the organization and address your letter to a specific person if possible (or use “Dear Hiring Committee” if you don’t have a contact name). You can do a web search for the employer to see if they've been in the news recently.
• Explain why you’re writing by mentioning the job and organization by name.
• Identify what interests you about the job and describe how you can add value.
• Use detailed examples to describe your accomplishments and qualifications. It’s not enough to say that you have the skills; employers want to know how and when you’ve used them.
• Tailor your cover letter to the job posting by addressing the specific responsibilities of the position and the skills you can bring.
• Use fewer words and make each statement count. 
• Use professional language, correct spelling, punctuation and grammar.
• Use the action verbs list  to find strong action words.
• Use a writing style that’s clear, straightforward and genuine.
• Thank the organization for considering your application and state that you're interested in learning about next steps.

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Examples of Cover Letters

Example 1: olivia's cover letter having a contact at an organization.

January 19, 2020.

Mr. John R. Martin Director, Human Resources Saskatoon Computers Inc. 465 Marilyn Drive Saskatoon, Saskatchewan  S7Y 8J9

Dear Mr. Martin,

I was recently speaking with my uncle, James Jackson, about opportunities in the computer programming industry and he recommended that I contact you. I will be graduating this Spring from the Technical University of Nova Scotia with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and I am interested in working for your company as a Computer Programmer.

As you will see from my résumé, I have a well-rounded background, through my university education and practical experience. I have gained invaluable experience in my work as a Research Associate. I am extremely proud of my involvement in many extracurricular activities. In 2019, I received a prestigious award for my volunteer work in the community.

I am confident that my courses at the Technical University of Nova Scotia in software engineering and applications programming, coupled with my work experience, will prove particularly useful for the position of Computer Programmer at Saskatoon Computers Inc. Although I am presently living in Nova Scotia, I am willing to relocate in order to pursue my career.

I have included my résumé for your consideration. I can be reached at (902) 555-6715 after 3 pm and on weekends, or by E-mail at  [email protected]  .

Sincerely, Olivia J. Abbott  

Example 2: Dora's cover letter having no contact and no advertisement

January 16, 2020

Wright, Auger & Harrow 1256 Market Ave. Toronto, Ontario M4L 2P3

Attn: Janice Peck, Human Resources

Dear Ms. Peck:

Are you looking for a competent, motivated, outgoing and well-organized Audit Trainee?

I will be graduating from the University of Toronto in the Spring when I will receive a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting. I am proud to tell you that I have been on the Dean's List every semester, since I started at university.

As you will see in my résumé, I have excellent experience in all phases of the accounting profession. In the summer of 2019, I was a summer student at Robbins & Richard where I worked directly with clients on audits, used a current software program and became familiar with the daily operations of a large accounting firm. In the summer of 2017 and 2018, I was a bookkeeper for an investment company. Since late 2019, I have worked, part time, as an assistant manager for a jewellery store where I am responsible for inventory, bank deposits and balancing the cash. These positions have given me the opportunity to substantially develop my interpersonal skills which will prove invaluable at Wright, Auger & Harrow.

I would like the chance to interview with you at your earliest convenience. It is easiest to reach me at (416) 555-6502 during business hours. Thank you for your consideration.

Example 3: Derek's cover letter responding to an advertisement for an entry level public relations trainee

March 3, 2019

Mr. George Jacobs Director of Human Resources Communications Canada Inc. 1300 River St. W. Winnipeg, Manitoba R7B 4H2

Dear Mr. Jacobs:

I am sending you my résumé in response to the advertisement you placed in last week's edition of The Winnipeg Free Press for the position of an entry level public relations trainee (reference number FR391)

I will be graduating this Spring from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor's Degree in Labour Studies. My experience as captain of the school's intercollegiate hockey team has taught me outstanding communication and interpersonal skills. It has also given me an opportunity to deal extensively with the media. Throughout my years at school, in addition to my involvement in sports, I have held a part time position at a retail store. As proof of my discipline and organizational abilities, I have been able to work thirty hours each week and still maintain good grades.

I am interested in beginning my career in the communications industry, in the field of public relations and I feel my experience, energy and enthusiasm would enable me to make an excellent contribution at Communications Canada Inc.

I can be reached at the above address and telephone number, or a message can be left at (204) 287-3865.

Derek Thomas

Example 4: Pierre's cover letter after having met a recruiter at a career fair

July 17, 2019

Mr. Andre Cartier Director, Human Resources Farallon, Inc. 787 E. Fourier Drive Montreal, Quebec H6T 7Y2

Dear Mr. Cartier:

We met at the Career Fair at McGill University in October last year and at the time you mentioned that your company would be recruiting Junior Systems Analysts this fall, to begin working in September 2019. I am writing to request an interview for one of these positions.

I was impressed by how helpful the staff from your organization was at the Career Fair. Your plans to create a department dealing solely with New Applications Development is of particular interest to me, given my background.

I will be graduating from McGill University in June with a Bachelor of Commerce in Management Information Systems. I received the James McGill Scholarship in 2018 for my excellent grades. My course work has included programming, database management and systems analysis. In addition, I have been assistant to a PhD student who is creating a new business software program for his thesis. I am confident these skills will give me the ideal background required for the position of junior systems analyst at Farallon Inc.

I will contact you early in August to set up an interview at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your consideration.

Pierre Faucher

Join the conversation 

Cover letter

Showcase your competencies and experiences and enhance your resumé with an effective cover letter.

Introduction 

Start by writing your name and contact information, followed by the date and the name of the person your letter is addressed to. 

Don’t forget to include the relevant position in the subject line. 

First paragraph 

In essay form, answer the following questions: 

Where did you learn about the opening (newspaper, recruitment service, etc.)? 

What position are you seeking in this company? Why you are the ideal person? 

If the position you’re interested in is not available, ask when would be the best time to reapply. 

If someone told you about the position, mention it here. 

Second paragraph 

Show your interest in the organization by explaining why your knowledge meets the company’s needs. You can do this by briefly mentioning what you know about their products and services or their reputation.  

Third paragraph 

Show your skills with examples from your experience. Describe your educational background, achievements, professional goals and personal characteristics. The key is to show how your experience will contribute to the organization. 

Fourth paragraph 

Ask for an interview, mention your resumé and clarify how you will communicate with them in the near future. 

Conclusion 

End the letter with a closing line. 

Address your letter to the hiring manager. 

Target your information to each new job application. 

Find out what skills and abilities the employer is looking for. 

Show your knowledge of the company and make the link between its needs and your skills. 

Cover Letter Samples

Throughout your academic career, both in and out of the classroom, you’ll develop skills that are highly sought after by employers.

See an example of a standard cover letter 

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Effective communication is critical during the job search process, both your verbal communications (in-person or over the phone), as well as through all of your written materials and correspondence. 

Professional Correspondence

A chapter from the Career Guide that provides guidelines, tips, and best practices for writing:

• Cover letters (e.g., “how to” guide, including samples)
• Thank you notes (e.g., how to write them, when to send them)
• Professional References
• Other forms of professional correspondence (e.g., follow-up emails)

Link:  Professional Correspondence Guide  (starting on page 62)

Carlson Cover Letter Template

Cover Letter Packet  – Defines the purpose of cover letters, best practices for each paragraph, and includes samples.

Cover Letter Visual  – Breaks down each segment of the cover letter. 

Cover Letter Presentation  – Workshop presentation materials with a high-level instruction for writing cover letters

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