Cover letters are a career marketing tool designed to introduce the you, show that you have researched the company, highlight your notable qualifications and career successes, and generate an invitation for a personal interview. They are a chance to provide more in-depth information than a resume.
Your cover letter should be in business letter format which is in paragraphs with a conversational, yet professional, tone."
We recommend you use the same header from your resume.
Your cover letter should start off with a date, inside address and a salutation.
Start off by dating your cover letter. Then, list the title and address for the company you are applying to. If a hiring manager is listed, include their name and title in the inside address. Before moving forward with creating your body content, address your cover letter to the hiring manager and remember to use a colon. If no contact or hiring manager is listed, complete some research on the company or simply address your letter to the hiring committee.
In your opening paragraph, introduce yourself and clearly define “who” you are—an aspiring teacher, accountant, graphic designer, engineer, etc. This brief statement should summarize:
- What job you are applying for and how you learned about it.
- Any personal contacts you have in or with the company.
- Show that you have researched the company and state why you want to work for them.
This paragraph(s) is the main focus of your cover letter. However, you should be brief and specific, as you want the reviewer to look at you resume.
Highlight your most relevant qualifications listed in your resume and discuss them in detail, demonstrating how your background and experience qualify you for the job. Refer the reader to your resume for additional details. Share an applicable qualifications, certifications, awards, and notable projects.
Use this space to also identify the value you can bring to the organization, your interest in this employer, and your reasons for desiring this type of work.
The concluding paragraph should reiterate your interest in the position, and your enthusiasm for using your skills to contribute to the work of the organization. State that you look forward to discussing this opportunity further and provide details on where and when you can be reached, and express your willingness to come to an interview or supply further information.
Close by thanking your reader for his or her time and consideration.
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