Careers

Follow these tips when writing your cover letter.

• Use a formal business letter structure.
• Address the letter to specific individuals. If a name is not known, try to find out. If not possible, address letters to the person’s title. (ex. “Dear Human Resources Manager.”)
• Keep letters to one page.
• Use the same paper and font style as used in the accompanying resume.
• Use 10.5 point font or larger.
• Leave side maragins as close to 1 inch as possible to provide space for employers to make notes.
• Avoid dense or curly font styles, they do not copy, scan or fax well.
• Avoid typos, spelling and gramatical mistakes.
• Sound positive, confident and enthusiastic.
• State the position for which you are applying.
• Use the organization’s name within the letter.
• Emphasize your top 2-3 qualifications from the accompanying resume and match them to the position and/or employer. Add power by using examples or evidence.
• Use strong words that convey actions and key words from related position descriptions.
• Be concise. Avoid being overly wordy or descriptive.
• Politely request and interview.
• Provide the employer with knowledge of what one’s next step will be and when.
• Show appreciation for an employer’s consideration.
• Be honest!