Cover Letter Writing

What Is A Cover Letter And How Do You Write One?
Helpful Hints
Components of a Cover Letter
Styles of Letters

What Is A Cover Letter And How Do You Write One?

Q. What is a cover letter?
A. A cover letter is a letter of introduction for you and your resume. It accompanies every resume you mail out.

Q. What is the purpose of a cover letter?
A. To arouse the interest of the employer in you.

Q. How does a cover letter work?
A. It conveys to an employer your ability to communicate and to manage the presentation of Information.

Q. What should a cover letter include.
A. Information to capture the attention of the reader. A statement of what you can do for the reader. Specific clarification of your resume highlights.

Q. What are some of the things to keep in mind when writing a cover letter?
A. It should be succinct. It should convey a sense of your personality.

Q. What format should be used?
A. It should be addressed to a specific person – call to confirm the name and title if you are unsure. Have an attention grabber – something to make the reader continue reading your letter. Elaborate upon a few highlights of your resume. Outline your course of action for arranging for an interview.

Q. How long should a cover letter be.
A. Approximately three (3) to four (4) paragraphs.

Helpful Hints (back to top)

1. TYPE your cover letter in business format.
2. Be sure it is on the same type of paper as your resume – make sure the     envelope matches as well.
3. Do not staple it to your resume.
4. Be sure your letter is neat with no misspelled words or grammatical     errors.
5. Avoid overusing personal pronouns.

Components of a Cover Letter (back to top)

*Click here for sample* - MS Word Format

Return Address: Where you would like a reply sent.

Date Line: The date (month, day, year) the letter is typed.

Inside Address: The name and address of the person to whom you are writing the cover letter.

Salutation: An opening greeting e.g. “Dear Ms. Johnson:”

Message: The text of the letter; paragraphs are typed single-spaced. Double-spaced between paragraphs.

Complimentary Closing: A closing word e.g. “Sincerely.”

Writer’s Identification: The signer’s name and title. Always sign the letter in pen (not pencil).

Enclosure Notation: A reminder that the letter has an enclosure. Most often the is a resume. Use the word ‘Enclosure’ and type it two lines below your printed name.

Styles of Letters:

Full-Block: All entries begin at left margin.

Modified Block: Return address and writer’s ID are centered.

Semi-Block: Five-space indentations at beginning of each paragraph.

For further information, contact Carol McGuiggan (ext 7248) or David Kowalczyk (ext 7153), Career Counselors, Student Development Center / Office of Career Services.

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