How to Write a Cover Letter for a Computer Programmer Job

As a programmer, writing may not be your strong suit. However, it is important that you communicate your qualifications and desire for a job in a professional manner when composing a cover letter to accompany a job application. You will find that recruiters and other industry professionals will respond more positively to a cover letter that is both brief and to the point.

Things You'll Need

• Postage
• Email account
• Printer
• Resume paper
• Matching envelope

Instructions

Write a Cover Letter for Your Computer Programmer Application

1. Open your letter with a statement describing the computer programmer position for which you are applying. If it is a government position, you should indicate what level of "Information Technology Specialist" you are interested in. In the public sector, you might need to specify whether you are interested in graphics programming for video games, for example, or providing program analysis for industry-specific software development.

2. Bullet-point any specific languages you have proficiency with, such as C++. This is especially important when the job description indicates specialization in one or more programming languages. Since your cover letter will precede your resume, it is vital that you write the information the recruiter is looking for upfront.

3. Demonstrate how you could add to the company by indicating your other work skills, such as time management and quality control. If you are new to the field, use an example from a student project to illustrate how you work efficiently in a team environment. For example, you might include a statement regarding your creation or use of testing programs which enabled your team to identify bugs and fix them, eliminating the need to extensively patch the program after publication.

4. List any additional certifications you hold, such as a CCP from the Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (see Resources below). You might also include any special training you have in software or hardware maintenance.

5. Write a brief conclusion to your letter, citing an example of what you can bring to the target company. For example, you might conclude by saying: "I look forward to speaking with you further regarding my time management and scheduling skills, which enabled my team to produce an Alpha and Beta of our most recent product well under deadline."

Tips & Warnings

• Sending an application via email does not indicate that you should use a more informal tone when composing your cover letter. In fact, it becomes even more necessary to convey your level of professionalism through this often informal medium.

Resources

• ICCP.org for computer programmer certification.