How to Compose an Effective Cover Letter
Write a cover letter to highlight your most attractive qualifications as a potential employee. A cover letter allows you to describe the accomplishments and special skills that make you most qualified for the job you want.
Unless the job posting says something like “send resume only,” be sure to include a cover letter every time you contact a prospective employer.
Why Create a Cover Letter?
A well-prepared resume is sometimes not enough to convince an employer that you should be interviewed for a position. As important as your resume is, your cover letter can direct the reader’s attention to aspects of your education and experience that are the most relevant.
Cover letters demonstrate your knowledge of the organization you are targeting and explain any part of your work history that needs clarification. A cover letter also demonstrates that you can organize your thoughts and express yourself clearly and appropriately. In a sense, your cover letter reflects your communication skills and, to a certain degree, your personality.
What Makes Up a Cover Letter?
Cover letters are one-page documents consisting of at least three paragraphs.
The beginning is the introduction that expresses who you are and why you are writing. This paragraph should include any relevant contacts you have in the organization, and for which specific position you are applying.
The middle section can be one or two paragraphs and is the sales pitch that describes what you have to offer. This section should also expand upon your interest in the position and how your qualifications match it.
The closing paragraph is where you propose steps for further action. You should politely request an interview or meeting. Ask for the next step in the process, clearly and without apology or arrogance. View the downloadable cover latter sample above for specific guidelines on how to develop the right cover letter format for you.
Content of the Letter
Address the company/employer
A cover letter should be addressed to the specific company and individual who will review your application. You can usually find this information through research or by contacting the company. It could be addressed to the department director or manager who will lead your team should you get the job.
Address the position
The letter should name the position for which you are applying, indicate your knowledge of and interest in the company, and indicate your qualifications for the position. You want to answer questions such as:
- Why do you want to work with this specific organization?
- How do you fit in with this organization?
- What are your qualifications for this particular position?
Address your assets
Include:
- Positive information supporting your hire
- Information detailing your strengths, accomplishments, interests and goals
- Examples of productivity and performance
- Benefits you can offer the employer
Omit:
- Information unrelated to position
- Negative talk about your prior employer
- Salary requirements or salary history.
- Personal information such as marital status, children, religious preference, etc.
Layout of the Cover Letter
- Write the letter in your own words so that it sounds like you, not like something out of a book
- Your writing style should be clear, objective, and persuasive rather than narrative
- Form paragraphs with a conversational yet formal tone
- Check spelling and ensure there are no typing errors
Things to Think About Before Writing Your Cover Letter
What is the prospective employer seeking?
Think about the skills, knowledge, and experiences that would be an asset in the job you are targeting.
What are your objectives?
Are you applying for a specific position, trying to get an interview, or hoping to spend some time talking to someone who can discuss opportunities in general at that organization? Be specific.
What are the qualities that you bring to this employer or job?
Describe at least two specific accomplishments that prove you have qualities the employer is looking for.
Why do you want to work for this particular organization?
What do you know about the organization? What is it about their products, services, philosophy, mission, goals, or needs that relates to your interests, background and values?
Useful Action Verbs
Management Skills
- adapted
- delegated
- oversaw
Communication Skills
- addressed
- explained
- resolved
Technical Skills
- administered
- maintained
- utilized
Teaching Skills
- advised
- coordinated
- facilitated
Financial Skills
- allocated
- appraised
- reduced
Creative Skills
- created
- invented
- integrated
Helping Skills
- advocated
- resolved
- supported
Organizational Skills
- distributed
- implemented
- executed
Guidelines for Writing a Successful Cover Letter
- Tailor your cover letter as much as possible to target the reader and industry.
- Focus more on what you have to offer the prospective employer than on what they can do for you.
- Communicate focused career goals.
- Avoid saying anything negative about your employment situation or about your life in general.
- Get to the point quickly and clearly.
- Back up claims with examples.
- Keep the letter to one page unless told otherwise by the prospective employer.
- Let other people read it and get their opinions before sending it.
- Keep easily accessible copies of all letters you send.
- Proofread for misspellings and typing errors.
- Use terms and phrases that are meaningful to the employer.
- Show concern, interest, and pride for your profession. Demonstrate energy and enthusiasm.
- Write candidly while maintaining a balance between professionalism and friendliness.
- Include information relevant to the job you are seeking.
- Utilize Career Services by getting your cover letter critiqued.