Sample: Unsolicited Cover Letter

Michael Sikes, MSW, LCSW, C-SWHC	5645 June Road Chicago, IL 50220 msikes@gmail.com 623-779-6998
March 7, 2009

Henry Adams, PhD, ACSW
Social Work Director
Brace Connections Hospital
2913 Plass Court
Dallas, Texas 66584

Dear Mr. Adams:

My name is Michael Sikes, and this May, I will complete my DSW degree. At this time, I plan to move to Dallas and am seeking an opportunity to use my medical social work experience in pediatric health care. Please consider me for any relevant positions you may have in your department.

My recent experience includes medical social work at Children’s Hospital in Chicago. As an intern, I worked on the neonatal and pediatric intensive care units and handled backup services for all other units in the hospital. I thrived on the fast-paced team environment of a hospital and witnessed firsthand the complex ethical and managed care issues facing social workers today. At the hospital’s day treatment program, I provided therapy for at-risk youth and their families. Prior to this experience in Chicago, I worked for the Women’s Shelter in Dallas, coordinating an effective volunteer service and children’s program.

Brace Connections Hospital has an excellent reputation and is my first choice in work settings. I have heard that your social work department is well integrated with all services in the hospital and that your staff is respected for its advocacy and work on behalf of patients.

Would it be possible to meet briefly with you during my visit to Dallas the week of April 6? I will contact you soon to schedule an appointment; if you prefer to contact me, my phone number is 623-779-6998 and my email address is msikes@gmail.com.

I am attaching my résumé for your review. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Michael Sikes, MSW, LCSW, C-SWHC

Copyrighted material reprinted with permission from the NASW Press.

The Social Work Career Development: A Handbook for Job Hunting and Career Planning book is available through the NASW Press.