Career Scoop

How to Write a Cover Letter

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So, you’ve polished your resume, now it’s time to write a cover letter. For many of us, writing a cover letter is seemingly one of the hardest parts of a job application. There’s no universal guide to what should be included in your cover letter, which can make it hard to formulate. Recruiters say one thing; employers say another, but the Career Center has come up with the perfect formula for an interchangeable cover letter you can use for all of your applications.  

What is a cover letter and why do you need one? 

  • What: A cover letter is a one-page letter applicants send to employers to express their interest in a position and expand on their relevant work experience. A cover letter doesn’t have a designated length expectation. Outside of the one-page parameter, you should aim to write about 3-4 body paragraphs, emphasizing the most important details of your experience. Employers use your cover letter to get to know you more intimately before connecting with you directly. Your resume lays out the groundwork for your profile as an applicant; a cover letter adds color to your resume and allows you to provide nuance for your background. A good cover letter should be compelling, explain how your experience aligns with the role you’re interested in and expound on your draws as an applicant.  
  • Why: In the current state of the competitive job market, applicants need as many chances to stand out as possible. Your cover letter is an employer’s first introduction to you and your guiding aspirations. This is the first opportunity to sell yourself to an employer and your first chance to demonstrate why you are worthy. This is often the first step in the weeding out process, so here is where you put your best foot forward! 

Writing a cover letter 

So, now we know why we’re writing a cover letter, let’s breakdown the formatting of the document! 

The Header 

  • For the heading, you should stick to the same format you used in your resume.  
  • If possible, try to find the name of who’s reviewing applications and address them directly in your salutation.  
  • Be sure to include: 
  1. Your name 
    Your city and ZIP code 
    Your phone number 
    Your email address 
  1. Date 
  1. Name of recipient 
    Title of recipient 
    Company name  
    Company address 

The opening paragraph: The Elevator Pitch 

  1. Your leading paragraph should adequately introduce yourself and your interest in the organization. You want to appear well-read and show vested interest in the company, start by creating a clear line connecting your experience to what the employer is looking for. Regularly refer to the job description while writing your cover letter to make sure your language reflects the qualities of a desirable candidate.  
  1. The opening paragraph is a great place to mention a reference if you have one. This can be an alum you’ve connected with discussing the position. It can also be someone you’ve worked with previously that works at the company. A reference speaking highly of you gives employers another way to vet you before moving forward in the hiring process.  
  1. This is the place to express your passion and motivation for the work that you do. Employers are attracted to candidates who have an identifiable interest in being successful and taking pride in their professional work. Depending on the tone of the organization and the position you may even consider including an anecdotal story about your background or an accomplishment.  

Second paragraph: Filling the gaps with context 

  1. This paragraph should detail your work experience as it relates to the job description. You should include the capacities in which you’ve worked and the impact you made in your position. Using active verbs demonstrates initiative and draws employers in showcasing the versatility of your positions. 
  1. In addition to using active verbs, try to include quantitative data if you have it. Utilizing quantitative data helps to qualify your qualitative impact in your previous roles. Pointing to specific numbers and outcomes when speaking about your experience shows you are results-driven and speaks to your work ethic.  
  1. If you don’t have quantitative data about outcomes or results, consider seeking that out from former employers. But in the meantime, try to include data about the size and scale of your work and its intended audience. Emphasizing impact rather than relaying responsibilities will effectively supplement what’s on your resume.  

Third paragraph: Why you?  

  1. Here you might go into your philosophy and restate how your career goals align with the position. Identify specific things about the organization that resonate with you and your ethos. You may want to highlight things about company culture, mission or the goals of the position. If the company has any work you’re drawn to, or any notable awards consider mentioning that to show the organization you’ve done your research. 
  1. This paragraph should be 60% about what specifically drew you to this organization and 40% about why you are a good fit for the role. Focusing on the company illustrates your commitment to the organization and will further demonstrate your passion for the role. Make sure when you are speaking about your competency for the role to try to mirror the language the organization uses in the job description.  

Closing paragraph: Extend your gratitude 

  1. Here you should thank the employer for their time and continued consideration. Restate where the employer can find your contact information and invite them to contact you to discuss the role. Continue to demonstrate your interest in the role and let them know you would like to speak further if possible. 
  1. End your cover letter with a professional sign-off and your full name.  

Sample cover letter 

  • Take a look at this sample cover letter, putting together all the parts of the formula! 

Writing a cover letter may seem daunting, but with a little practice you’ll get the hang of it! The key with cover letters is that it works in tandem with your resume; it should be adding nuance to what isn’t on your resume. Don’t just repeat what’s in your resume; that defeats the purpose of a cover letter. Remember, this is your first impression and may be the deciding factor in your application, so give it your best! It may be helpful to look at friends’ cover letters for reference or take a trip to the Career Center to have your cover letter reviewed before sending it in! 

By Raigan Clay