Many job or internship applications may only request a resume. However, a well-written cover letter introduces your resume and can direct the reader's attention to specific areas of your background, so it is always a good idea to have a cover letter ready.

Writing a Cover Letter

When writing your cover letter, there are a few keys things you want to do, which are described below. You can also use the cover letter checklist(.PDF) which includes a sample cover letter.

Overall Format

• The letter should be concise, and written in an active voice, not a passive voice
• Avoid overly long paragraphs and academic asides
• Should be single-spaced, and paragraphs should not be indented; double-space between paragraphs
• At the top of the page, be sure to include your personal address block, followed by the employer's address block
  • A personal address block includes your name and address; the employer's address block includes their name, organization, and address
• Do your best to address the letter to the person hiring, or at least name the position title
  • Avoid using "To Whom It May Concern"
• Use a colon, not a comma, after the greeting
• Make sure your letter is free of spelling, grammar, syntax and formatting errors
• The letter should use the same font as, and generally match, your resume
• Save as a .pdf with your name included in the file name

Opening Paragraph

• Write a strong opening paragraph, communicating your target job, how you learned about the position, and key strengths within the first few lines of text
  • Think of this as a thesis statement setting up the flow for the rest of the letter
  • If you learned of the position by a connection to the employer, be sure to include the name

Body of the Letter (One to Two Paragraphs)

• Demonstrate interest in the employer
  • Find information in their mission statement, on their LinkedIn page, in the job description, or through informational interviews with connections who work, or have worked, for the organization
  • Demonstrate that you have researched the organization and know why you are excited about working there
• Use industry-specific language
• Include examples of your accomplishments and successes so employers can see you have a history of diligence, etc.
• Limit the number of sentences that start with 'I'
• Do not use worn-out phrases like 'proven track record'
• Explain why you are a good fit for this specific job
  • This should NOT be a reiteration of the information on your resume
  • Show how your experience, education, and temperament meet the qualities specified in the job/internship description; map your skills to the position description
• Express how you would benefit the employer if you were hired
• Express clearly WHY you want this specific job with this specific organization
• Include all information that was requested, such as job reference number, employment availability date and salary requirements (put in a wide salary range which includes the minimum you'll accept)

Closing Paragraph

• Include an easy way for employers to contact you, such as a direct phone line and email address
• Clearly request an interview/discussion/conversation

*Don't forget to sign paper versions that you can actually mail! You can also scan your signature into electronic documents.

 

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