This virtual online community is designed to support students in crafting standout Cover Letter. Members can access expert advice and a step-by-step guide. Whether you’re drafting your first cover letter or fine-tuning a professional portfolio, this community provides the resources and support needed to present your best self to potential employers. Pages 15 and 16 in the Resume, References, and Cover Letters booklet have more information.
Get Ready
- Review the position you are targeting.
- Focus on the tasks and requirements of the role.
- Make a list of the most important tasks, skills and qualities required in the role.
Introduce Yourself (Paragraph 1)
- State the position you are applying for and the name of the organization.
- Tell how you learned about the position (or who referred you).
- Explain why you are interested in the position.
- Give a very brief overview of why you are a good fit for the role and will add value to the organization (1 or 2 sentences).
Describe Your Experience (Paragraphs 2 &3)
- Discuss your qualifications and experience. Highlight skills and accomplishments from each experience. Use specific examples (include numbers/statistics if applicable).
- Explain how your experiences could translate to the role and how they could benefit this organization.
Wrap Up (Paragraph 4)
- Reiterate your most relevant qualifications or desire to work at this organization.
- Thank the hiring manager.
- Include contact info if it is not already at the top of the letter.
Review Your Document
- Read the letter aloud. Do the words flow well? Have you been specific enough that the hiring manager could visualize you doing the job?
- Check: Does your letter pertain to the tasks of the job you are applying for?
- Check grammar, spelling, punctuation.
