****Cover Letter Writing 101****

Cover Letter

Preparing the Cover Letter
In a competitive job market, it’s crucial to differentiate yourself from the competition. In many cases, your
cover letter is your first contact with employers. If you don’t impress an employer right away, you may not
get the attention you want. Today, many employers prefer cover letters to be sent via email. This is
where you will show the strength of your writing skills. This email can mean the difference between
getting an interview, or a trip to the “deleted items” folder.

The cover letter is the first introduction to you. This is as important as the skills and experience on your
resume. Obviously, you want to make a great first impression.
The Cover Letter has four main areas.

1. Why you are writing – Be specific to what position you want and why you would be a strong
candidate. This is why you research the company’s web site, articles, annual reports, etc. Find
out what the company needs, its culture and describe how you can be a contributor.

2. Value selling – Tell the employer about your qualifications for the specific position you are being
considered for. Associate your experience and knowledge to the requirements of the position.
Summarize your skills, talents, and accomplishments. Do not…repeat the content of the resumé.
You want to tell them - Why they should be interested in you.

3. Background Summary – A 2-3 sentence paragraph summarizing your education and
experience. Do not bore employers with lengthy descriptions and paragraphs.

4. Compelling Action – Action to be taken next. Here, for instance, you might say that you will
follow up and call within 10 days, instead of waiting for the employer to contact you.
Tips…

• Send it to a specific person. Call the company or check its Web site to find out specifically who
is likely to be reading your resumé. Ask for the correct spelling of that person’s name, as well as
his or her title. Letters addressed “To whom it may concern” show you have little knowledge or
interest in the company.

• Make your letter concise - no more than a page.

• Proof read and re-check the letter before you send it. Make sure you have addressed the letter
to the correct person and have included the correct company name and job position. If you’re
sending your resumé via an attachment, don’t forget to attach it before you send it.

• When emailing a cover letter, place it in the body of the email. DO NOT ATTACH IT! There is no
need to greet the employer by name (ex. Dear Mr. Jones or Mr. Jones can be omitted) as well as
any address information can be omitted. Also, a signature is not required. Who the email is to
and from is assumed in the header of the email