The Office of Career Services: Cover Letter Writing Skills
- Every resume should be accompanied by a cover letter.
- Always address a cover letter to an individual. Do not use, "Dear Sir" or "To whom it may concern."
- The cover letter targets your resume and determines whether an individual will take the time to scan your resume.
- The cover letter should follow the standard business letter format. It consists of three sections, the introduction, the body and the closing.
- The introduction will define the job you are applying for and tell the reader how you learned of the position (who referred you and/or where you saw it advertised, including the date of the advertisement).
- Always check that you have the correct spelling of the employer's name, title, department and the correct address.
- The body describes the qualifications you possess that make you an excellent candidate for the job. It should also include information about the institution that you find attractive.
- Examine the employer's needs and target your cover letter to show you are qualified to meet those needs. Be sure to mention any specific skills or accomplishments that will separate your resume from the rest of the applicant pool.
- Do not write an overly formal cover letter. Give the reader a reason to want to meet you. While it is true that outstanding accomplishments may win you an interview, a letter written in a personable, positive manner that presents you as an interesting person, may do so as well.
- You should present your desire to work for the organization clearly in the closing.
- Be assertive, yet respectful and not over zealous in your intentions.
