How to Write a Professional Cover Letter for a Job Application

A well-written and concise cover letter is an essential part of any job application, because many employers place greater stock in a cover letter than the accompanying resume. That said, keep the following points in mind while writing a cover letter, and your cover letter will stand out from the other hundred applications received by the employer.

Instructions

1. Introduction. The first paragraph of the cover letter incorporates several pieces of information. First, reference the position you are applying to, because the company/employer may have multiple openings available. Second, in one sentence summarize your experience and affirm your ability to perform the position's related duties. For an example, consider the following introduction to a hypothetical cover letter for a college admissions counselor.

   [Dear Mr. Smith:

   In response to ABC College's advertisement for an Admissions Counselor, I would like to submit my resume for your consideration. Having assessed incoming, transferring and continuing students' academic credentials in a college setting for over four years, I can accurately assess your students' strengths and needs and connect them with faculty best suited to evaluate their experiences and prior education.]

2. Second Paragraph - Relevant Experience. Use the second paragraph to tie your experience to the position's listed responsibilities. The following example, a continuation of the aforementioned Admissions Counselor position, highlights the applicants experience equated with duties of a college admissions counselor.

   [As an admissions counselor for XYZ University, I continually assess students' academic backgrounds in order to place them in appropriate courses and connect those students with faculty and staff best positioned to assist in their degree progression. Specifically, I meet with students individually to review their academic background, pinpoint their strengths and weaknesses through the administration of placement exams and questionnaires, and help them develop an academic plan that guides the students to resources that can strengthen their academic performance and guide their career research.]

3. Third Paragraph - Additional expertise. Use the third paragraph to highlight any experience or abilities that would make you unique amongst applicants. Of special importance is to draw the company's/employer's attention to previous positive associations between you and the company, which will provide the company with additional ways to check your accomplishments (it could also lead to additional personal references being considered with your application - a very positive thing).

   [Aside from my work at XYZ University, I recently assisted in assessing an ABC College student seeking credit for their life experiences. Having previously tutored a student at ABC College, I have enjoyed working with the institution's students and staff and would enjoy an expanded role there. As the Admissions Counselor, I would offer ABC College an experienced administrator capable of thoroughly evaluating students and directing them to appropriate resources and faculty for their educational needs. Equally, this position would provide me with an opportunity to further assist an institution I respect and enjoy collaborating with.]

4. Conclusion. Keep the conclusion simple, especially since you want to limit the letter to one page, single-spaced. Express your wish to discuss your application in person, provide the phone number you can most easily be reached at, and thank the employer for his or her time.

   [I would appreciate an opportunity to further discuss my education, experience and interests with you at your earliest convenience. I may be reached at (---) 555-5555. Thank you for your time and consideration.]

Tips & Warnings

• Don't start the letter with "to whom it may concern" if possible. If a job ad does not indicate a specific person to address applications to, call the company and ask who to specifically address.