Cover Letters

A cover letter is an introductory correspondence, usually directed to HR. Cover letters are starting to become less common, especially with summary statements and other statements on applications, but are still occasionally requested as part of the application process.

Your cover letter will be a four-five paragraph, one-page letter with 12 point font. Bonus points if you match the font and heading (name and contact information) of your resume!

Paragraph 1 (small):

Greet the reader, specify the position you’re applying for, and provide a BRIEF introduction of your experience and how you heard about the position.

Paragraph 2 (large):

Go into more depth of your experience and education. This is a good place to brag on what you’ve brought to previous teams, anything you’re proud of, and any reason for gaps in your employment. If you’re switching industries, lean into your transferable skills and how you know you’d be a good fit. Keep “I believe…” and “I feel” out of this, we know you think that since you’re writing this. Be confident!

Paragraph 3 (medium – large):

Explain why their company is a good fit for you. Show that you’ve done research on their values, projects, and future focus, and explain why you are excited for this. You may be the best fit for any position, but show why you want to work for THEM.

Paragraph 4 (medium):

Combine the last two paragraphs, further solidifying why you’d flourish in their company and help the company flourish in return.

Paragraph 5 (small):

Thank them for their time and include contact information. Your information should be at the top of the cover letter, on the resume, and also on the application, but it truly doesn’t hurt to have it in as many spots as possible.

Here are a few sentence stems to help you:

SALUTATION

To Whom It May Concern,

Dear Sir or Madam,

Dear <Specific Name>,

REASON FOR WRITING

I am writing to express my interest in the position of….

I wish to apply for the position of…

I am writing in response to your job posting for…

I am writing to enquire as to whether there are any vacancies…

…found on <specific site>.

…which I heard about from <specific person>.

INTRODUCING YOURSELF

I am currently working as a…

I am currently studying…

I am currently attending…

At present, I am working for <company> where I am responsible for…

I have been working in my current position for the past <time>…

TALKING ABOUT EXPEREINCE AND EDUCATION

I graduated from __________ university with a degree in…

The nature of my studies at <university/internship/position> has prepared me well for a position such as this one.

As you can see from my resume, I have worked…. and gained experience…

My native tongue is <language> and I am fluent in <other languages>.

WHY YOU ARE THE BEST FOR THE POSITION

I am well-suited for this role as I have a great deal of experience in …

I consider myself to be a <include three adjectives such as: friendly, organized, and experienced> worker.

I would be the ideal candidate based on the fact that I …

I am very keen to work for an ambitious company such as yours, particularly with your focus in….

CLOSING COMMENTS

Thank you for taking time to consider my application.

I am available for contact and/or interview at any time.

If you do wish to contact me, you can do so on <phone number>

Should you require further information, do not hesitate to contact me.

Please find resume attached (if it’s an email)/enclosed (if it’s a letter).

SIGNING OFF

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Respectfully,

A typical cover letter follows traditional mailing convention, which includes the mailing address, date of correspondence, and a signature in cursive, followed by the name in print.