How to Write a Good Cover Letter

Cover letters can make or break a person being short-listed for an interview. Think of the cover letter as a marketing tool--you will use it to showcase your qualifications for the position and to "sell" yourself to the prospective employer. A well-written cover letter can separate you from the pack and give you a better shot at the job. Read on to learn more.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Job Information

Instructions

1. Understand the basics of a cover letter (max 1 page).

   The first paragraph will be your opening/introduction paragraph. Here you want your first sentence (or two) to be attention-grabbing. Recruiters receive many resumes and to have them all say "Please find attached" makes it boring and nobody stands out. You want to stand out! Also mention the job you are applying for and how you heard about it.

   The middle paragraph(s) is where you want to sell yourself. Look at the job posting and write how you meet their requirements but don't copy your resume! Use specifics if you can. Columns or bullet points can be used here.

   The last paragraph is your closing. Here you will thank them for reviewing your resume and mention the next step in the process, i.e. either you'll call them or request that the interviewer contact you to set up an interview. If you haven't included your phone number(s) or email address yet, this is where you would put them. If you already listed them at the top with your address, there's no need to repeat them here.

2. Always use a business letter format on white or ivory good quality paper:

   your address
   phone number(s)
   email address

   date written

   addressee's name
   professional title
   organization
   address

   To: if you know the person's name, use it; never put 'To Whom it May Concern'; if you don't know the person's name write - RE: the job position and competition number (if applicable)

   body of letter

   Sincerely yours,
   handwritten signature
   typed name
   Encl. (or Enclosure) Resume

3. Check your punctuation, spelling, grammar, font size and margins. Make sure there are no mistakes!

4. Proof-read to make sure everything makes sense and that you haven't left anything out. It may be worthwhile to have someone else take a look at it as well.

Tips & Warnings

• If you write a generic cover letter to send out to multiply companies make sure you edit it to fit that company! There is nothing worse than receiving a cover letter and resume addressed to someone else.

Resources

• Bad Cover Letters