Job Find Club - Presented by the Centre for Distance Education

A cover letter gives you the opportunity to sell yourself to a prospective employer by providing more positive information as to why you would be best suited for the position.

Every resume should have a cover letter. Cover letters are to be typed as regular business letters. Follow your rules for spacing, margins, etc.

Don't make the mistake of assuming that the cover letter is unimportant since your resume covers everything. Although your resume may be excellent, a busy recruiter only has a few seconds per application. A good cover letter shows extra effort and focuses the reader on your selling features. You should be able to clearly identify the position you are applying for and how you meet the criteria specified. Even though your resume should note your address and telephone number, list this information on your letter as well.

Outline

A cover letter should not be more than one page, but should be a good full page (3-4 paragraphs). Make sure you sign your letter with a pen. Some sample letters are attached. Use these only as a guide to see the content, structure and effect.

Included below is an outline for your coverletters, some additional points concerning coverletters, and some sample letters for your perusal. There are plenty of resources available online as well! Visit your favorite search engine or directory service site and enter keywords and phrases such as "coverletters", "coverletter writing", "coverletter samples", etc. and you'll find that a wealth of information is available - there are even companies available to critique your letters!

Opening Paragraph

The position you are applying for and the competition number if given.
Where you saw the ad (give name and date of publication).
If someone who knows the employer referred you, give the name of that person.
Your interest in the position.

Body Paragraph(s) – maximum of 2

Why you are suited for the job.
How you match the specific job requirements listed in the ad: related experience, training, qualifications, skills, background and attributes.

Closing Paragraph

State your interest in meeting with the employer for an interview and arrange for further contact. Make it easy for the person to contact you. List one or two phone numbers and days and times you can be reached at home. This will leave you free time for active job search. Even though your number is on your resume state it again.

Additional Points:

There are many other aspects to consider when writing your cover letter. Read the below points carefully and make sure you are applying them to your letter intelligently.

Be clear, brief and to the point

These are business letters, directed to busy recruiters and/or hiring managers, not lengthy essays designed to impress a faculty person with your knowledge and vocabulary.

Customize each letter

Show you really want this particular job with this particular company by writing a letter specifically addressing that job and company. If you're unsure of the name or title of the person you're addressing, call the company and find out. Never address a letter "To Whom It May Concern".

Be Professional

Make sure the letter is 100% accurate in spelling (including individual and company names), punctuation, and grammar. Remember to put the enclosure after your name. All cover letters should be typed. Don't forget to sign it.

Sell Yourself

Use every letter to state or restate why you would be the ideal candidate for this specific position. Discuss what you can do instead of focusing on the experience or qualifications you lack. Do not attempt to impress the reader with your vocabulary. Write to inform, not to impress. Indicate a date as to when you will be calling to follow-up on this letter.

Be Positive and Powerful

A cover letter must be very positive, always stay away from the negative. Don't use those negative words (can't, don't, no, not, never, etc.). Have a good supply of powerful words at your fingertips. The stronger you sound the better your chances.

Don't rehash your resume

If you write an effective cover letter, the employer will want to read your resume. Focus on your best qualities, examples of your experience, give details of how you saved your previous employer money or a successful project you were involved in.

Talk about the company

Show your interest and knowledge of the company by mentioning their current ad campaign, their web page, etc.