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Write a Cover Letter

When you apply for a job, send a cover letter with your resume. Your cover letter will be the first thing used to decide if you qualify for a job.

A good cover letter is:
  • one page long
  • includes three paragraphs
  • customized for the job you are applying for
  • addressed to the person who will be looking at the resumes

Paragraph 1: Why you are applying for the job

The first paragraph includes:

  • Title of the job that you are applying for
  • How you found out about the job (online, newspaper, etc…)
  • Why you want to work for the company

Paragraph 2: How your skills match the job

The second paragraph includes:

  • Two or three of your skills that are important to doing the job
  • A description of how your skills and experience match the job
  • How the company will benefit from hiring you

Paragraph 3: Next Steps

The third paragraph includes:

  • One sentence to say that you look forward to speaking with them 
  • How they can contact you to schedule an interview
  • How you plan to follow up about the job

Cover Letter Tips

  • Be brief; don’t ramble on about your life and career.
  • Address your cover letter to a specific person at the company.
  • Don't keep using the word “I.”   
  • Use active words (I am convinced), not passive words (I feel…).
  • Every cover letter is different and should be for the job you are applying for.
  • Show that you know a little about the company (go online and find out what they do).
  • Read your cover letter before sending it and check your spelling – using Spell Check does not catch all mistakes.
  • Never use texting shortcuts in your letter (example: I am interested in the job U r hiring 4.)
  • Use letter quality paper instead of copy paper. Print your resume on the same paper.
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