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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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    Could this be Your Life logo

    Check out this online interactive game brought to you by the Illinois Center for Specialized Professional Support, and take the journey through Could this be YOUR LIFE.  This interactive game will teach you about the consequences of making career and life choices.

    To access this interactive game, visit the Could this be YOUR LIFE External link opens in a new windowweb site.



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    Counselors and school administrators interested in packets of printed brochures, please call (877) 513-1987 or email des.icrn@illinois.gov . 


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