Cover Letters

Writing a cover letter is often more difficult than writing a résumé. A book that will include several worksheets on writing a résumé and provide numerous examples of different types of résumés, will often dedicate only one slim chapter on writing a cover letter. This indicates that the cover letter is only a brief and unimportant attachment to the resume. In fact, a cover letter is of equal, if not greater importance.

Cover Letter Quick links

• Cover letter tips
• Sample cover letters and thank you letters

Do I even need a cover letter?

There are two situations when a cover letter is not necessary, at a career fair where you hand your résumé directly to a recruiter and when you submit a résumé to participate in on-campus recruiting. In every other situation a cover letter is needed, and even in the situations mentioned above, it can sometimes be helpful.

What is the purpose of the cover letter?

The cover letter explains to the reader why you are submitting the résumé and why they should be interested in reading it. It is a persuasive document, designed to convince the reader to read your résumé and select you for an interview.

What is the format of a cover letter?

A cover letter consists of your address, and the date; the name and address of the person you are writing to; a body of text that consists of 4 -5 paragraphs; and a closing salutation. The total length of the letter should not exceed one page. Use a standard closing salutation such as "sincerely," then sign your letter with your name typed underneath.

What information should the cover letter contain?

The first paragraph should explain why you are writing. Typically this includes stating the position for which you are applying, as well as where you heard about the position. College students and recent college graduates often include their major and graduation date.

The second, third, and on rare occasions fourth paragraphs are your chance to tell the reader how you meet the job qualifications. Use the same terminology that the listing used and explain how you meet the requirements of the position. For example, don't just state that you have strong leadership skills, give examples of times that you used these skills. You have the opportunity in these paragraphs to talk about your skills and experiences in a more narrative form than the résumé allows.

The closing paragraph should include information about the material you are sending with the cover letter, such as a résumé, a list of references, or a writing sample. Close the paragraph by asking for an interview or indicating that you will call to make sure that all the necessary information has been received. If at all possible, do not simply state that you look forward to hearing from them. This makes it too easy for the reader to not contact you at all.

Should the cover letter be on the same type of paper as my RÉSUMÉ ?

Yes, your cover letter should be laser printed on the same paper as your résumé. The font should be the same and the font size should be similar to that used on the résumé.