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A cover letter is a great way to catch the attention of a potential employer. It's your chance to share experiences that aren’t on your resume, highlight skills that match the job you're applying for, and show why you're excited about the role.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Tailor each cover letter to the specific job, and try to keep it to just one page.
- Be confident and persuasive when talking about your experience.
- Focus on the parts of your background that align most with what the employer needs.
- Make sure it’s properly formatted, free from any spelling or grammar mistakes, and addressed to the right person.
When to submit?
- Always follow the application instructions in the job description.
- Even if it’s not required, sending a brief cover letter is a good idea.
- Write it in Word so you can save it, track where you’ve applied, and use it as a template for future letters.
- Many companies use software to handle applications, so make sure you follow their process as described.
Heading of the Letter
Every cover letter if formatted with the date, your name, and address listed to the upper left-hand corner of the page, such as below:
January 1, 20XX
Vikki Viking
352 Lafayette Street
Salem, MA 01970
Opening Paragraph (Why you’re writing)
Right off the bat, mention the position you're applying for and why you’re the perfect fit. If you found the job posting somewhere specific, mention that. And if someone referred you, name-drop them too.
Example: I am writing to apply for the Research Trainee position in your Economics Research Department which I located on your website. Having majored in Mathematics at Salem State University, where I worked as a Research Assistant, I am confident that I would be a positive addition to [Company Name].
Middle Paragraph(s) (Skills – What you bring to the table)
This is your chance to highlight what you can contribute. Focus on how your skills match the job and how they’ll benefit the company.
Example: In addition to my strong background in mathematics, I also offer significant business experience having worked in a data processing firm, a bookstore, and a restaurant. My courses in statistics and computer programming will prove particularly useful in the position of Research Trainee.
Final Paragraph (Company Knowledge/Closing/Next Steps)
Show your excitement for the company and why you’re interested in the role. Mention what you know about the organization (from your research) and why you’re drawn to it.
Example: Your recent rapid growth and the superior reputation of your Economic Research Department attracted me to City Bank. After studying different commercial banks, I have concluded that City Bank will be in a strong competitive position to benefit from upcoming changes in the industry.
I appreciate your time and hope to be considered. I look forward to hearing from you soon about the Research Trainee position and welcome the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications.
Tips
- Use action verbs.
- Don’t overdo it with "I" – keep the focus on what you can offer.
- Do your homework on the company before you start writing.
Learn more about how career services from Salem State can help you with you with your career goals.