What do you think a cover

letter should do?

A cover letter is a formal letter that accompanies your résumé. Use it to introduce yourself to potential employers, and to

convince them that you’re the right person for the job.

Your cover letter doesn’t simply re-state your résumé—it offers some new information, and it highlights the skills you have that are relevant to the job

you’re applying for.

Cover Letters should…

1. introduce yourself, identify the position you are applying for, and explain how you found out about the position

2. explain how you are qualified for the position and why you would be a great fit for the job

3. request an interview and thank the employer

Don’t make it all about you

As fascinating as you are to your mother, this venue is not about you - it’s about what you can do for the company. A much tougher audience. Become knowledgeable by reading up on the company. Consider the job description and it applies to examples of your real world experience.

Research the company and who you’re sending it to! That matters!

Cover Letter Format: Keep it one page

As fascinating as you are to your mother, this venue is not about you - it’s about what you can do for the company. A much tougher audience. Become knowledgeable by reading up on the company. Consider the line items in the job description and how each one applies to examples of your real world experience.

Research your recipient. Instead of sending it to Whom it may Concern, use a business tool such as LinkedIn to figure out the name of the HR person or hiring manager.

Cover Letter Presentation

Always use a business format for the letter! Keep format formal!

Proofread

Don’t make sloppy spelling mistakes. It’s the one thing your prospective employer won’t forgive. I’m sure you agree it’s a huge waste of time to go through the trouble of crafting a worthy letter only to read it back too little too late (after you hit send) and find a stupid typo. Sometimes it’s tough to catch your own mistakes after you’ve been staring at the same text for a while. Try to enlist the help of a fresh pair of eyes for proofreading.

First paragraph - introduction(2 - 4 sentences)Establishes the purpose of your letter, attracts attention, and arouses interest.

State why you are writing by naming the specific position or type of job.• Tell how you heard about the position/employer and

why you are interested in it.• Insert a brief sentence that gives your degree, major,

university, and graduation date.

Second/third paragraph - body (1 - 2 paragraphs, depending on your background)Generates interest with content by indicating how much employer research you have done and how your skills/background match the employer’s needs.

• Focus on what you can do for them rather than why you want the position.

• Highlight your most significant accomplishments, abilities, and experiences that are specifically relevant to the employer and job requirements.

• Sell your credentials - your mission is to prove you should be invited to an interview. Make reference to enclosures.

Fourth paragraph - closing (4 sentences maximum)

States your commitment to action.

Take the initiative to make clear what happens next - you will be calling to arrange an appointment, and/or ask for

additional information.

•State your availability. Let them know if/when you will be in the area.

•Mention that you have an enclosed resume or sample work, if applicable.

•Restate contact information so the employer can contact you.

•Thank the employer.