How to Write a Cover Letter for a Journal
A carefully constructed cover letter should always accompany your resume when applying for an advertised position or inquiring about future opportunities. Positions with a journal are highly coveted in the academic world, so it's important to present yourself as a knowledgeable communicator. Use the letter to elaborate on related internships, assistantships or volunteer work, especially within the realm of the journal's subject material. Focus on benefits, such as how hiring you helps the employer, rather than getting wrapped up in telling too much about yourself.
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Instructions
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Address the letter to the person who can hire you. If the hiring manager's name is not listed, do a little research or simply call and ask. Keep it formal, use "Mr.," "Ms." or "Dr.," etc.
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Identify the position for which you are applying. If responding to an ad, state where you found it. If unsolicited, tell why you'd like to work for that particular journal.
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Talk about yourself. Explain why journals interest you or in what sector you'd like to contribute. Use specifics and applicable publishing or technical jargon. If you're applying to a scientific journal, feel free to use both publishing and scientific terms. Present yourself as familiar with the subject material.
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Demonstrate your knowledge of the journal and its place within academic literature. If a particular paper resonated with you, tell why.
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Detail your experience, past successes and how your knowledge can benefit this particular journal. Highlight related work, intern or volunteer experience and related coursework or research. Sell yourself.
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Name drop. If you know or have worked with someone at the journal, briefly tell of projects you've collaborated on.
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Include information requested in the ad to which you are responding, such as salary information and references. If applying for an editorial position at the journal, remember that your cover letter itself serves as a writing sample, so treat it as such.
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Close by thanking the reader. Though likely found elsewhere on your cover letter and/or resume as well, include your contact information once more.
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Proofread. Spell check. Have a friend look over your cover letter. Let it sit. Pick it up the next day and proofread again. Make sure the letter is perfect before you send it.
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Format the letter. Use the same typeface and style as your resume for continuity. Take a cue from the journal to which you are applying and borrow formatting, white space and spatial guidelines to identify yourself with the branch.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep the letter concise, three to four paragraphs at most. It should fit on one page and give only necessary information.
References
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