A cover letter emphasizes your interest in a specific position and employer. Your resume is providing the who, what, when, where for employers, the cover letter provides the why. Showcases how your background matches the needs of the employer. Cover letters are not long ― A half-page, 3 paragraphs, is best. All cover letters should be individually created for a specific job ― Do not use generic templates. It’s okay to get personal and provide examples of life experiences if they strongly highlight why you are a great fit for the role. Just remember, while personal information can help you stand out, you do not want to tell someone your whole life story, so use good judgment
Presentation
- Use simple, direct language and correct grammar
- Letters should be flawless ― no typos or spelling errors
- Single-space your letters and put in business letter format (add your heading, the date, who it’s going to, etc.)
- If printed, use high-quality, white or off-white paper - match resume paper
- Online/email submission, save and send as a PDF
Introductory Paragraph
- State why you are writing the employer
- Indicate the position and how you learned of it
- A brief sentence that gives your degree, major, college, and graduation date
- Hint at what is to come in the next paragraph by sharing general ability/value you will bring to the experience, stay broad you will get more specific in the body paragraph
Body Paragraph
- Describe how your education, experience, and personal skills make you a good match for the position
- Be specific, offering proof of your experiences and clearly describe ways you will contribute
- Outline one or two specific examples of how your skills and experiences will meet the company’s needs
- Refer to the organization you are applying to, and discuss what it is about them and the job opportunity that appeals to you ― Why do you want to work for this company specifically?
- Emphasize your knowledge of the organization (do research) and your familiarity with the field
- Avoid cliché language such as passion, love, it is a dream come true, etc.
- A genuine show of enthusiasm and knowledge will set you apart from those sending generic form letters
Closing Paragraph
- Always thank the employer for considering your application
- Say what you’ll be doing to follow up on your letter, be polite and proactive but not demanding
- Provide a summative statement of your value or your strength
