Cover Letters

A cover letter is used to introduce yourself and your interest in applying for a particular job to a prospective employer. Applicants write cover letters to expand on their qualifications as they relate to the specific job being applied for.

Why write cover letters?

First, most employers, when asking for a resume, expect that it would be accompanied by a cover letter. If a resume is sent to an employer without a cover letter, the employer may not necessarily know what position is being sought after by the applicant and they may assume that the applicant is not seriously interested in working for their organization. Second, a cover letter offers you the opportunity to add some personality to an otherwise 'business-like' resume; it helps the employer get to know you better which is your ultimate goal throughout your job search process.

Some basic guidelines for writing your cover letter

  • Content should be individualized to meet the specific position requirements.
  • Some, but not all the content should be similar to what is on your resume.
  • Paper should match exactly the paper used for your resume.
  • Length should not exceed one page.
  • Your name and address should appear on every page.
  • Have several people proofread your letter.
  • Each letter should be addressed to a specific name.

Sample Cover Letter

Month day, Year
Your Street Address
City, State Zip Code

Ms./Mr. Important Person (always try to get a name to write to)
Title or Department
Organization/Company Name
Street Address
City, State Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. Important Person:

Use the first paragraph to state to the employer why you are writing and how you became aware of the opening. If you are writing to inquire about possible openings, use the introductory paragraph to say so. Be sure to include the name of the job you are applying for or your career objective. Try to get the employer's attention so that they keep reading. Choosing words that convey sincere interest and motivation will help. For example, "It is with a great deal of interest and enthusiasm that I write you to apply for the." or "Your ad for the __________position caught my attention and has held it since" or "I appear to be an excellent match for your current requirements".

The second paragraph of your cover letter is the most important as this is the paragraph that highlights specific qualifications you have that match the position requirements. Consider this the most important sales pitch you will ever give. You may write your statements in actual paragraph format or you may choose to format this information using bullet statements. For example: "Highlights of my professional and educational background include the following:" or "Some of my key accomplishments include the following:"

Add statements that stress achievements and that match the position you are applying for.

In the third paragraph, you should mention any enclosures: "Enclosed please find my resume which will offer you a more complete understanding of my qualifications". You should also state that you are interested in an interview and that you will follow-up on your correspondence. "I am interested in meeting with you to discuss your needs for the _____position in more detail. I will call you on Tuesday, November 20, to follow-up on this correspondence. If this method is too direct for you, you may simply state, "I look forward to hearing from you."

Sincerely,

(sign above your typed name) Your Typed Name

Enclosure(s)