Twenty Tips for Effective Cover Letters
The purpose of your cover letter is to:
- make yourself stand out to the prospective organization or employer;
- connect your background to the position;
- connect your interest to the position.
Format
Your cover letter should:
1. typically be 3-4 paragraphs, one page and single spaced;
2. avoid vague or general phrases;
3. be addressed to a specific person;
4 use a business letter format;
5. use Mr./Ms. and last name in the salutation.
Cover Letter Content:
Opening Paragraph
You should:
6. state immediately and concisely why you are writing and for which position or experience you want to be considered;
7. show your knowledge of the company, or organization;
8. make reference to where and how you heard about the position or organization;
9. identify your interests in, and motivation for, contacting the company or organization.
Middle Paragraph
You should:
10. connect your skills, qualifications, and personal attributes to what the company or organization seeks without repeating what is on your resume;
11. substantiate your self-descriptions;
12. select 2-3 actual examples that highlight your most significant academic and work related accomplishments;
13. consider including information that is relevant, but may not appear on your resume.
Concluding Paragraph
You should:
14. be specific about when you intend to follow-up;
15. mention when you are available to begin the experience;
16. emphasize once more how you can contribute to the position or organization.
Remember to:
17. proofread and make sure your cover letter is error free;
18. tailor your cover letter to each position, company, or organization;
19. sign your name;
20. adopt a professional and enthusiastic tone.
View Sample cover letters
Visit one of the Filene Center advisors or peer mentors to discuss your draft of your cover letter
For more information on cover letters, visit http://www.wheatoncollege.edu/Filene/resumes/coverletter2.html