Some opportunities will require that you submit a cover letter, or they might state that a cover letter is optional.
A cover letter is a document that serves as an introduction to your résumé/CV and provides the reader with additional context about your skills and qualifications when considering your application. Not only does it reiterate your enthusiasm and qualifications for the opportunity, but it also serves as a mini writing sample which can be extremely helpful when applying for a position that requires strong written communication skills.
Pro Tip:
A cover letter should be uniquely tailored for each opportunity you apply for. Researching the organization and position prior to writing your letter will provide helpful context on content to include and attributes to draw attention to. In addition, here are a few other general rules you should follow when formatting your cover letter:
| Margins should be equal on all sides of the page; between 0.5 inch and 1.0 inch | Font size should be between 10 and 12 point | Use a universal font like Times New Roman or Garamond |
| Files should preferably be saved as a .doc or .docx file; PDFs should be used only if needed | Ensure there are no spelling errors or general mistakes – do not rely on spellcheck | Use formal business letter formatting or mirror your résumé’s contact section |
| Limit the document to one page | Do not indent paragraphs | Use direct greetings when possible; “Dear Taylor Smith” or “Dear Search Committee”, instead of “To Whom it May Concern” |
| Avoid the use of cover letter templates containing tables and grids | Avoid abbreviations except for states and universal acronyms |
Don’t…
- Write “Hello my name is…”
- Write more than one page (Exception: 1.5 – 2 pages can be acceptable when applying for academic jobs)
- Repeat exact content on your résumé or CV (The cover letter should be written in a narrative voice – showing examples, your journey or development of skills, etc.)
- Indent your paragraphs
- Write “To Whom It May Concern”
- Write general statements regarding your desire to work for the organization, or how you are impressed with them. (General content is boring and they don’t care if you are impressed with them.)
Cover Letter Paragraphs
Your Address, City, State Zip (Or use the contact information format from your résumé)
Date (January 1, XXXX)
Name of Employer Contact (or HR Director)
Title
Company Name
Street Address City, State Zip (if known)
Dear First Name Last Name:
INTRODUCTION PARAGRAPH: (3-5 sentences)
- Why are you writing? “With experience in X and Y, and a background in C, I am applying to the (X position).
- Make a connection with the reader by mentioning a common professional acquaintance or by expressing a significant way that you align with the position and/or organization/company.
- Conclude the paragraph with a statement that identifies the skills, knowledge, and/or experience(s) that you will address in the next two paragraphs.
BODY PARAGRAPHS: (Might be only one paragraph or two paragraphs)
- Show a few ways that you can succeed in the role by providing specific examples of past work, research, internship, volunteer, leadership, or classroom experiences that illustrate you have the skills, knowledge, and training that the employer seeks. (Tailor this to the job/internship description!)
- Explain how you can add value to the company and/or role.
CLOSING PARAGRAPH: (3 or 4 sentences)
- Thank the reader for reviewing your application materials and reiterate your interest in the position and/or organization.
- Share your desire to learn more about the role and to discuss your alignment with the position.
Sincerely,
Your Name (Typed)
