Tips on Cover Letters
- When e-mailing a recruiter, the cover letter becomes the text of
the e-mail with the resume sent either as an attachment or copied
and pasted within the space. The e-mail would not include your
return address or date at the top (like a letter sent by mail
would); simply start out with Dear Mr. Smith or Ms. Smith (see
sample on page 18).
- Address your letter to a specific individual. Try to get this
information by speaking with a representative of the organization or
by checking the company’s Web site. Each letter should be tailored
to fit an individual company and position. If you are unable to find
a name, use a title such as “Human Resource Manager.”
- Take advantage of contacts! Mention any referral in the first
sentence of the cover letter to increase the probability of
obtaining an interview.
- Plan your letter carefully before you write it. You may find it
helpful to develop several paragraphs you can mix and match for each
position.
- Tell the employer what you can do for the organization and why
you feel you are uniquely qualified. Include hard-hitting statements
of accomplishment.
- Customize the letter, especially the first paragraph. Provide
specific reasons why you are the best person for that particular
position. The cover letter is your chance to stand out as an
individual.
- Avoid overuse of the words “I” and “my” or other personal
pronouns.
- Avoid extraneous words and clichis. Eliminate flowery phrases.
- Make sure your letter is no longer than one page. It should
complement and expand your resume—not say the same thing.
- Check carefully for any spelling, grammatical, or typing errors.
- Sign the letter (if sending by mail)!
- Make sure you keep a copy for your files.
- Refer to your enclosed or attached resume somewhere in the cover
letter. If sending by mail, put the word Enclosure at the bottom of
the letter.