A cover letter is an important component of a job application. Most jobs require a cover letter along with a resume and formal application. The cover letter is a way for prospective employees to let the company know why they are interested in the job, and how they would fit in. It is essential that people searching for a job know how to write a proper cover letter. The letter should only take up
. a page maximum, which helps ensure that the key points are covered without making the employer have to spend too much time reading the application. All cover letters need professional formatting and should include proper names and terms of address. Looking at examples of cover letters for jobs can help prepare a prospective applicant for writing their own cover letter. As this letter is the first thing the employer sees, it is especially important that it is well written and focused. There are many examples online that applicants can analyze to see how the best letters are written. Many colleges and universities, including Virgina Tech at http://www.career.vt.edu/jobsearchguide/coverlettersamples.html, have career departments for students to use as resources. These provide tools including how to properly write a cover letter and what it should include. This is especially helpful for graduating students who are applying for jobs for the first time since getting their degree. Morningside College, located online at http://www.morningside.edu/student_life/careers/sampleletter.cfm, also has several good examples of cover letters for people to review. The letters state the qualifications of the applicant and why they would fit in well with the job position. The applicant writes confidently and directly, which shows the employer that this person is ready for the job and motivated to get it. All of these samples can help a prospective job applicant increase their odds at getting their application noticed. More Reference Links: http://www.morningside.edu/student_life/careers/sampleletter.cfm http://www.career.vt.edu/jobsearchguide/coverlettersamples.html