Cover Letters That Get Results
A good cover letter can mean the difference between rejection and an interview for the opportunity you seek. Cover letters should be clear, succinct, informative pieces of writing that serve a well-defined purpose. A cover letter that demonstrates the author's excellent writing skill will stand out and receive special attention. A strong, well-written, intriguing first couple of sentences can transform a reader's skeptical attitude to one of interest and curiosity about the person behind the letter. Most people who hire regularly prefer one-page letters that get right to the point. That means the author has only three or four brief paragraphs in which to engage the reader and make herself understood. Some paragraphs and sentences will stay the same in every cover letter you send out, but each letter should also have something in it that will make a connection with the specific job or employer. Show that you have carefully read the job ad and that you have researched the company or job category in question. That little bit of extra attention to detail will impress employers who read scores of letters every week.
Format
- 1 page
- 3-4 paragraphs
- Formal letter style
- Simple stationary, ideally the same as used for resume
Include
- The name of the person to whom you are writing including honorific (Ms., Mr., Dr...)
- The name of person who referred you as possible
Do not Include
- Clichés and stock phrases
- Personal information
- References
Content
- First paragraph: Explain why the reader should attend to your letter
- State the purpose of the letter and its key point or main theme. What sparks your interest in the job, this company, this field of work? What special qualities could you bring to the position? Include your major and cite your referral if you have one.
- Second paragraph: Expand upon relevant experience and/or convey additional information
- The middle paragraph (or paragraphs) of a one-page letter is an opportunity to develop an example of the author's qualifications for the job or to expand on some point raised in the first paragraph. Think of a brief story or an example that will interest the reader and demonstrate unique skills, understanding or experience. In the first draft of the letter—yes, like all important pieces of writing these letters require multiple drafts—concentrate on getting the most important features of the example laid out. Later drafts can focus the language and cut unnecessary words. Do not repeat exactly what is on your resume.
- Third (or final) paragraph: Request action and express appreciation
- The final paragraph of a cover latter usually contains information about when the candidate can be available for an interview or about how the reader can get in touch with the letter-writer. It is not necessary and may even seem fussy to repeat information contained in the letterhead. For example, the last paragraph might mention that evenings are the best time to call; the reader can see the telephone number at the top of the page. Some authors like to take a measure of control of the response process by saying that they will follow up their letter with a phone call. A final word of thanks or appreciation is also appropriate here. At this point in the letter, the cover letter writer needs to be particularly wary of using buzzwords or tired phrases such as "contact me at your earliest convenience" or "I desire to be a member of your team." Readers respond best to fresh, original language.
- Editorial assistance
- Finally, of course, be sure to let someone else—a Writing Center tutor, a Career Planning counselor, or a conscientious friend—read over your letter before you send it off; all of us need help catching our own mistakes and typos. However trivial a cover letter may seem, it may be your one and only chance to get a foot in the door.
No. 63 in the Writing Center Handout Series