How to Write a Cover Letter
See our sample ID job ad and responding coverletter
The Basics
A successful cover letter can help you to personalize and set the stage for your résumé. It can fill in the blanks of your résumé for the particular position for which you are applying. Hopefully, your cover letter will generate excitement in the reader and gain you an interview.
Do NOT use a form letter. Avoiding this common mistake can set you above the competition. Time spent researching and finessing your letter can show the employer your written communication skills; your knowledge about the needs of the organization; highlight your ability to contribute; and show why you are the right fit for the job. The cover letter, like the résumé, gives you the opportunity to tell the employer about your training, accomplishments and education as they relate to that organization. Make sure you spend time investigating both the company and the position for which you are applying.
Structure
A cover letter need not be longer than three or four paragraphs. The first and last paragraphs can be as short as one sentence. Don't repeat the résumé, but give an overview of your capabilities and show why you're a good candidate for the job. The best way to distinguish yourself is to highlight one or two of your accomplishments or abilities. Stressing only one or two increases your chances of being remembered. Be sure it's clear from your letter why you have an interest in the company. Many candidates apply for jobs with no apparent knowledge of what the company does. This conveys the message that they just want any job.
Addressing the Letter
If you are not responding to a job posting that specifies a contact name, try to determine the appropriate person to whom you should address your cover letter. (In general, the more influential the person, the better.) Try to contact the head of the department in which you're interested. This will be easiest in mid-sized and small companies, where the head of the department is likely to have an active role in the initial screening. If you're applying to a larger corporation, your application will probably be screened by the human resources department. If you're instructed to direct your inquiry to this division, try to find out the name of the senior human resources manager. This may cut down on the number of hands through which your résumé passes on its way to the final decision-maker. At any rate, be sure to include your contact's name and title on both your letter and the envelope.
Don't Philosophize
Example: "Dear Mr. X: Finding the right person for the job is often difficult, costly; and at times disappointing. However; if you are in need of a reliable individual for your management staff I have the qualifications and dedication for the position."
Opening Paragraph
State the purpose of the letter and the position for which you are applying. If someone has recommended you or you have a mutual friend, make sure you make reference to it in this paragraph. If you are responding ot an ad, say so. Express enthusiasm for the work done by the company and state what you have in common.
Body Paragraph(s)
This is where you e xplain your qualifications and create excitement and interest in you as a candidate. Stress your accomplishments; relevant education; job related skills and abilities and show your interest in the position and employer. Use action verbs in your sentences—preferably many of the verbs used in the advertisement . The less passive you are the better, for example, don't say "I have learned" if you can instead say "I have [led, accomplished, programmed, created, etc.]" The first example implies you have discussed something, the second explains that you have actually done it.
If possible, show how you not only meet but exceed their requirements—why you are a superior candidate. Mention any noteworthy accomplishments, high-profile projects, instances where you went above and beyond the call of duty, or awards you've received for your work. If you're responding to a job ad, give examples of how you've demonstrated the skills and qualities for which the employer is looking. Your resume lists your skills and experience, but in this letter you can expand on those lists and provide a more comprehensive view of your qualifications.
Closing Paragraph
The purpose of this paragraph is to ask for the interview. If possible, indicate that you will call (give specific dates) to get more specifics or to set up a time to interview. Keep it simple—"Sincerely," followed by a comma, suffices. Three lines under this, type your full name as it appears on your résumé. Sign above your typed name in black ink. Don't forget to sign the letter.