Cover Letter

Toolkit

Writing letters of application and inquiry

Sample cover letter

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What is a cover letter?

• A cover letter is essentially a narrative version of your resume—it is your chance to introduce yourself and impress your future employer in writing.
• While a resume is an objective list of facts that highlight your experience, the cover letter is the story behind those facts.
• You should send a cover letter with your resume when you apply for any opportunity.

Write your resume first!

• Students who write their resume first write a much more successful cover letter because they have already written about their best experiences and skills.

How do I write a cover letter?

(See the handouts in the Toolkit at the top of page for more details.)

First, copy/paste the header from your resume.  Include the date and the employer’s name and address, and address the letter to a person.  The letter should be less than one page and has three basic parts:

PART 1:  Introduction

• Tell who you are, name of the position that interests you, and why you are interested.

PART 2: Experience and Skills

• Turn the experience section of your resume into a few paragraphs that describe why you are qualified for the position.  Be very specific.
• After reading this section your employer should be able to answer these questions:  What is this person good at?  What experiences led them to build these skills?  Why this specific company?

PART 3:  SHORT Conclusion

• This section should be short—1-3 sentences.
• Ask for the next step in the process (usually an interview) and say thank you.
• Always sign your letter if you are sending a paper copy.

Cover Letter Dos and Don'ts