Dorothy Said:

How do I write a cover letter?

We Answered:

Don't be overwhelmed!

I found this site really helpful: http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/career/guides/cover_ltr.shtml
Take it step by step and you should be fine. The entire point of a cover letter is to supplement your resume.

Kelly Said:

Who should write the acting cover letter?

We Answered:

Your parents need to sign it.


Agents admit to almost never reading it. Care about having a great headshot and resume!

Here are some tips:

-NEVER give your age. They could see you playing much younger or even much older than you actually are. Your age range is determined by the casting directors. They're the ones who let you go to the audition and hopefully call you back to audition for the producers/clients who ultimately decide on whether or not you get the job.

-NEVER say "at your earliest convenience..." You're now giving the agent/assistant an excuse not to contact you right away.

-IT SHOULD NOT COVER YOUR HEADSHOT AND RESUME! It should go behind your headshot and resume

The FIRST thing the agent should see when he or she opens the envelope is your HEADSHOT AND RESUME! Those are what get you into the door.

-You want to address it to the SPECIFIC AGENT of the division you're interested in. It makes the letter personable and doesn't lead the agent to think that your letter was one of hundreds.

-Don't talk about stuff that's already on your resume. It's cliche.

-Don't put yourself down. "I don't have much experience but...." You're already giving the agent a reason why they shouldn't sign you yet let alone meet with you.

-Don't describe yourself in adjectives "hardworking, determined, polite, friendly, etc." It's CLICHE!

Here's all you need to say:

Dear (Specific agent's name),

Hello my name is (your name) and I am currently seeking (insert either commercial or theatrical depending on the addressed agent) representation. Please find enclosed my picture and resume for your consideration. I look forward to meeting you soon! Thank you.

Sincerely,
(sign your name here with a BLUE Ballpoint pen so it's more personal)

Your name (Typed)
(xxx)XXX-XXXX
(Email address)

P.S. (type something quirky/creative and TRUE about yourself to make this concise letter stand out.)

Sharon Said:

How do u write a cover letter that has no recipient? A general cover letter? One to post on the internet?

We Answered:

The address line of a general purpose cover letter may be -exactly as shown - either:

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:

or

Dear Sirs, (Old fashioned and sexist)

or

Dear Sir or Madam,
(funny sounding, but common, and not as blunt as "to whom")

You didn't ask for it, but I have included a template for a cover letter that has been really helpful to my kids. It makes you laugh, and also shows you just what you ought to say. If you do not know who to say it to, I would use the
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: one and just leave out the company/name for addressee

----------------------------------------…
(tabbed to the center - which you can't do on yahoo answers:)
YOUR NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
YOUR PHONE
YOUR CELL
EMAIL

DATE

(left justified, just like it looks)

Company
PERSON
Address

Dear Mr/Ms whatchername:

Please consider me for the position of GAMEKEEPER at the CITY ZOO listed/advertised in THE GUINESS BOOK OF WORLD RECORDS. My experience at THAT CRAPPY JOB LAST SUMMER has given me the (specific experience/skill or evidence of suitedness) to MANAGE THE WILD ANIMALS, FEED THEM, AND CAUSE YOUR LIFE TO BE EASIER AND YOUR CREATURES TO PROSPER.

My certificate for POOP SCOOPING (is/is not) current(and if it is not I will get scooping instantly). You will see that SOMEBODY THEY MAY KNOW OR RESPECT (OR some position I have held before, or some educational specialty, or some professional membership) recommends me as A VERY COOL GUY OF SOME KIND.

I look forward to hearing from you, and thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

YOUR NAME

Bobby Said:

I have a teaching degree. How do I write a cover letter explaining I want a career change and sound convincing

We Answered:

Wow, that's a big move. You have a Master's in education, that's great, but it can't exactly help if you did something like, say, construction. You have to be fully prepared for a lot of stress when switching jobs like that. Your letter shouln't suck up, but instead, you should subtly inform them that you feel like you have better oppurtunities and that it has nothing to do with the work environment or people. As for the people you want to employ you, don't just apply, ask for an interview.

Sherri Said:

What is best way to write in cover letter for the question of the reason i'm seeking a change of employment?

We Answered:

Write it with the mindset of keeping it positive and the words will come to you. You don't want to allude to anything negative about your old job or the fact that you hated it.

Marlene Said:

How do i write a cover letter?

We Answered:

Hi Chris,

A Cover-Letter is in fact a 'letter of Application' for a job and usually accompanies a Resume. You didn't indicate the type of job you are applying for or your age and experience, so that makes it difficult for me to provide you with a decent sample.

My suggestion is that you visit your local library and borrow a book titled - What Color is Your Parachute - by: Richard N Bolles where you will find information that will help you.

If the Job you are applying for is your first job, then you need to complete an 'Entry Level Resume and Job Application (Cover Letter).

You could also search the Internet for Entry Level Resumes and Cover Letter samples.

Best wishes for success.