Cover Letters

Learning how to craft, tailor, and edit the resume for the specific opportunity you are looking for is important. However, equally important is showing a potential employer you are eager and willing to do what it takes to get noticed. A well-written cover letter will help to show you are highly interested in getting a new job.

A cover letter is a letter of introduction, usually 3-4 paragraphs in length, that accompanies your resume. It is a way of introducing yourself to a potential employer and explaining why you are suited for a position. Employers may look for individualized and thoughtfully written cover letters as an initial method of screening out applicants who may lack necessary basic skills, or who may not be sufficiently suited for the position.

Many people don't take the time to create a cover letter to send with a resume. However, top candidates understand the importance of tailoring not only their resume to the position in question, but the cover letter as well. The cover letter is often the first thing a potential employer will see. Your cover letter shows that you are determined and motivated and truly want to be considered for a position.

When developing content for your cover letter, think about writing the letter as you would write a speech. Start by gaining the reader’s attention, and then state the position for which you are applying. This should then be followed by your accomplishments and achievements as they relate to the position. Clearly indicate what you can do for the company, and lastly call them to action by closing with a strong statement about working together and reaching out to speak with you directly about the position. To summarize, cover letters should accomplish the following:

• Get the attention of the prospective employer

• Set you apart from any possible competition

• Identify the position you are interested in

• Specify how you learned about the position or company

• Present highlights of your skills and accomplishments

• Reflect your genuine interest

The cover letter should not exceed one page, and it should be addressed to the hiring manager directly. If you don't know to whom you should address your cover letter, Indeed recommends conducting an online search to find the hiring manager’s name. If you are still unable to find a name, use a generic salutation such as, “Dear Marketing Department” or “Dear Head of Finance.”

Like the resume, you should carefully proofread your cover letter for spelling, grammar, and other errors. This may be your only first impression, and you want it to be a good one.