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how to write a cover letter

What is a Cover Letter? | Cover Letter Content | Sample Cover Letters

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter introduces you and your resume to an employer and motivates him or her to want to meet you. Subsequently, when mailing your resume to prospective employers, it should always be accompanied by a cover letter. Your letter should capture the interest of the employer and communicate a personalized message about what you can contribute to that particular organization.

Cover Letter Content


Begin by addressing your letter to a specific person. This may involve some research on your part such as a call to the organization to find out the correct name and title of the person to whom you should write. "Dear Sir/Madam" is very impersonal and indicates a lack of real interest in the organization and the person to whom you should write.

  • Identify who you are, why you are writing, and where you learned of the opening.
  • Relate your skills and qualifications to the position or organization you are applying to. This will demonstrate your knowledge of the organization and illustrate how you can be an asset to them.
  • Ideally, you should address organization/position needs that are expressed in the advertisement or position description.
  • Make references to your resume without restating it word for word. Your goal is to draw attention to the highlights.
  • Make the letter short and to the point.
  • Avoid the use of flowery language and clichés.
  • Be specific; use examples to support your claims of skills and qualifications.
  • Indicate what you want to happen next. If you want an interview, ask for it.
  • Tailor your letters for each position. Letters that are mass produced and generic are unappealing.

Style

  • When writing your letter, keep in mind the reader's perspective.
  • The most effective cover letters are clear and concise, conveying your message in 3 to 5 paragraphs. Your letter should not exceed one page in length.
  • Like the resume, your letter must be NEAT, TYPED, and have NO SPELLING ERRORS.
  • It is recommended that you use paper that matches the paper your resume is on. You may use matching envelopes or plain manila envelopes.

Format

  • Any business style letter format is appropriate (e.g. full block format, modified block format)
  • Always indicate whether there are enclosures included (e.g. resume, writing sample, transcript)

Sample Cover Letters

Sample Cover Letter Format (.pdf file)

Sample Cover Letter 1 (.pdf file)

Sample Cover Letter 2 (.pdf file)