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How to Write a Resume Cover Letter to Reapply for a Job

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When you submit your resume for an open position, it's important to include a cover letter. The cover letter gives details about your work experience, indicates why you're interested in a specific position, and lets the employer know that you're including your resume for review. When you're reapplying for a job, your cover letter also explains why you're doing so and what you can now offer the employer, in terms of experience, that you couldn't before.

Type your address at the top of the cover letter. Underneath it, put the date you plan to send the cover letter. Underneath the date, type the name of the employer, his or her title, the company name, and the company address.

Start your cover letter with a professional greeting addressed to the recipient, such as "Dear Ms. Jones." Try to find out the name of the person you're sending the cover letter to. You can check the job ad or call the company. If you can't find out the name of the person you're writing to, you can type a more generic greeting, such as "Hello," "To Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Sir or Madam."

In the first paragraph, state the name of the position you're applying for and how you heard of the open position.

In the second paragraph, explain when you applied for the position before and why you've decided to reapply. Include details about the experience you've had since you applied before. Show the employer that you now have more relevant experience or education and that you're better prepared for the challenges of the job. For example, your new experience may include working in a similar position, completing an internship, or earning an educational degree.

In a separate paragraph, state your most relevant skills. These may be repetitive from your previous cover letter, but include them as long as they are still relevant to the position. For example, you might list your computer skills and ability to operate certain types of equipment. For positions that deal directly with customers and clients, list interpersonal and communication skills.

In the last paragraph, thank the recipient for his or her consideration and for reviewing your cover letter and resume. State when you're available to interview and when you can start working. You might also say that you're glad the position reopened and that you're excited at the prospect of working for the company.

End your cover letter with a professional closing such as "Sincerely." Type your name a few spaces below that. Between the closing and your typed name, include your signature if you are planning on printing the cover letter.