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How do I write a Cover Letter?
What is a Cover Letter?
If you do not hand deliver your resume to an employer, you should always include a cover letter, or letter of interest. This letter introduces you and your resume, explaining both your reasons for writing and your qualifications for the position. The cover letter should be typed in business format and printed on the same color and quality of paper as your resume.
What should I include in my cover letter?
- Always address your cover letter to a particular individual; never use
"To Whom It May Concern." If necessary, call the employer and request the
name of the person responsible for hiring entry-level professionals in
your area of interest. Be sure to get the correct spelling and the job
title of that person. If you cannot get the name, address your salutation
to the title of the person, e.g. "Dear Creative Director." Use "Dear Sir
or Ms." as a last resort.
- State your purpose or objective in the opening sentence of your
letter. Specifically name the position for which you are applying so that
the employer knows immediately what you want.
- Mention how you learned about the job opening and why it interests
you.
- If possible, mention a name. For example, "Professor Jones suggested I
contact you about . . . ." Make sure you have permission from the person
to whom you refer, and that the contact knows the person to whom you are
sending your letter.
- Show some familiarity with the company or organization to which you
are applying. Do some research about the employer and indicate in your
letter why you are particularly interested in them. For example, discuss
that you are familiar with their future plans or current issues or
problems.
- Stress any particular strengths you have which qualify you for the
job. It can be effective to expand on one or two related experiences
listed in your resume. Do not repeat information on your resume word for
word.
- Close your letter by thanking the employer for their consideration and
requesting an interview.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid sending your cover letter and resume to the personnel or human
resources department of an employer. Personnel generally does not have
hiring power (only the power to screen you out). If you must send your
application to personnel, send a duplicate application to the person
responsible for hiring for the position, as well.
- Always include your own contact information on your cover letter. If
your resume should become separated from your letter, an employer will
still know how to reach you.
- Do not write a general or generic cover letter and send it to multiple
employers. They will know a form letter when they see one. Always tailor
your letter to the employer and position for which you are applying.
Take a look at some samples:
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