Writing a Cover Letter
Cover letters are written to personalize the application process. Your cover letter’s purpose is to state the specific skills you have that are required for the position you are currently seeking. It should spotlight your unique qualifications for a particular job. Often it will be the first thing to be seen by a prospective employer. When you first meet someone in person, your eyes focus on their face. The same is true when you submit application materials; the initial focus will be on the letter, so one needs to write a dynamic cover letter that will make a great first impression.
It may be appropriate to submit a cover letter via email and use less formal formatting. For example, If you are applying to a technology company, it might be fitting to send an email with your résumé attached in PDF.
The following steps are suggested when writing an attention-getting cover letter. Also please refer to the sample at the bottom of this page.
Begin by creating a letterhead using the same heading as appears on your résumé. Make one change, the heading should begin on the 4th line (not the 7th as is normal for the résumé), thus leaving ½ inch of blank space at the top of the paper.
Insert the current date a few spaces below the letterhead.
Write the name and address of the individual or department to whom you are writing; be sure the names are spelled correctly.
Use Dear Mr., Ms., or Mrs. for the salutation. If you do not have a specific name, you can omit the salutation.
In writing the first paragraph, be sure to state the position for which you are applying and mention something positive regarding you and what you have learned about the company.
In the second paragraph mention your best qualifications as they relate to the job for which you are applying.
At the conclusion of this paragraph, mention that more details regarding education and experience may be found in the attached résumé.
The last paragraph should politely request an interview.
Then on the second line after the last paragraph, sign off with any one of the following: sincerely, cordially, or respectfully.
Space down four lines, three blank lines, and type your full name.
Space down two more lines and type the word “Enclosure.” This tells the reader that you are enclosing something—your résumé.
Sign your name above your typed name using black ink or use /s/ for signature when submitting letter digitally.