Cover Letter Guide

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COVER LETTER GUIDE

A cover letter, or letter of application, outlines your accomplishments and presents experiences as they relate to the employer's needs. It should be no longer than one page in length and be addressed to a specific individual within an organization. The letter aims to pique the reader's interest in you as a candidate. It entices them to review your resume and helps you secure an interview. The goal of a cover letter is:

Introduction

To state the position you are applying for and how you became aware of the opening.

Body I

To market your qualifications and outline how they match the organization's needs and expectations.

Body II

To detail why you are the best candidate for the position.

Conclusion

To request an opportunity for an interview.

Letter Writing Tips

The Introduction

Identify the position you are seeking and the source of your information. For example, the ad was listed in a (specific) newspaper, through a job listing or career fair, etc.

If the purpose of your letter is to network, be sure to identify the connection (alumnus/alumna, acquaintance, etc.) with the reader early in your letter.

Enthusiastically express your interest in the position.

The Body

Market yourself!

Focus on the unique qualities and skills that you possess which would be pertinent to the listed position.

Clearly identify what makes you the best candidate for this position.

Outline your qualifications. Draw references from academic successes, demonstrated leadership skills, and other related experiences and accomplishments.

Make reference to any special skills or additional course work in which the employer might be interested. Examples: specific computer knowledge, language proficiency, certifications, other degrees, etc.

Be sure not to reiterate the contents of your resume. Rather, construct a letter which compliments and expands upon your achievements and successes.

The Conclusion

Suggest an action plan.

Request an interview.

Indicate you will contact the employer within a certain time period to discuss interview possibilities.

Indicate how and when you can be reached.

Thank the employer, by name, for her/his time and consideration.

Before You Mail

Make sure your current address and phone number are in the heading of your letter and match what appears on your resume.

Sign this letter in the same manner as your name appears on your resume.

Indicate enclosure on the bottom of the letter ("encl." or "enclosure").

Proof read for punctuation, spelling and grammatical errors.

Verify postage before you mail.

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Letter Writing Tips
Use a business letter format with block or modified block paragraphs.
You may choose to send your materials to both Human Resources as well as directly to the supervisor of the listed position.
NEVER begin a letter with "To whom it may concern." Be certain to identify the names, titles, and addresses of those who are to receive your letter. Call Human Resources or the department where the job is listed to verify the mailing information of the employer.
Avoid beginning sentences with "I." Focus on clear, concise writing.
DO NOT use contractions, abbreviations, acronyms, informal language, or jargon. Your letter should be written in a professional manner.
Verify your letter correctly reflects you and your accomplishments.
Carefully PROOF READ both your resume and all of your cover letters! Ask others to proof read as well.
Type your cover letter on the same stationary on which your resume is printed.
Check for neatness.
Type your envelope.
Keep a copy of all the resumes and cover letters, and any additional information, you send out for your records. Keep them organized by name of employer, since you may make small changes for each position.

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