How to Write a Cover Letter Online

Occasionally, when applying for a job, a research position, internship or grant (among other opportunities), you will be asked to create a cover letter and resumé online. When you write a cover letter online, you should stick to the basics, but pay careful attention that your final product comes out as you desire. Read on to learn more.

Things You'll Need

• Cover letter
• Resumé

Instructions

Write an Online Cover Letter

1. Read the directions for the service you are using. Each website has different methods for you to write your resumé. In some, you are simply cutting and pasting a pre-written cover letter into a text box, while others ask questions that fill in a prefabricated template.

2. Write your cover letter in a word processing program before you start your online letter. This allows you to use spell check and more easily proof the letter. You can then cut and paste from your proofed letter into the website form.

3. Keep an eye on the format. If you use bullets or columns, make sure that these translate to the online form. Often times, spacing and tabs go askew when pasted into a form.

4. Write complete sentences in an online cover letter builder or wizard. A wizard or form takes your answers to create a cover letter for you application. While it may be tempting to answer the questions with short phrases, you should aspire to make a better first impression.

5. Store more than one cover letter on the job boards you frequent if it is allowed. Most job boards let you have about 5 letters on hand for applying to jobs online. The more choices you have, the better tailored your letter will be for the position.

6. Target each employer's specific requirements in your cover letter. If you have an online cover letter stored on a job board, you should edit it before each application. A few lines about how you'll fit into the company or how your experiences suit the position will usually suffice.

7. Avoid taking the easy way out by writing something like, "Here is my resumé." You should send a complete cover letter with each application, no matter how you apply. Many people feel as if applying online excuses them from presenting a complete package.

Tips & Warnings

• If the online application allows you to save your work and come back late, you should. Come back when you have a fresh eye and take a second look at your entries to make sure there are no unexpected errors.