Cover Letter Tips & Tricks

Every formal cover letter should begin with this basic structure. Avoid “Dear Hiring Manager” if you can; addressing the letter to the appropriate person shows extra effort. Look at the company’s website, LinkedIn, or the job posting to find the hiring manager or recruiter’s name.

Your Name Here
Your Street Address
Your City, State, Zip Code
Your Phone number
Your professional email

Date

Name of Individual
Job Title of Individual
Company or Organization Name
Street Address or P.O. Box Number
City, State, Zip Code

Dear First Name Last Name:

The first paragraph should clearly state the position you are applying for and how you learned about it.

Next, explain what interests you about their organization and this specific role. Focus on what makes their organization unique or compelling, rather than centering on your own needs or wants.

Conclude the paragraph by briefly highlighting 2-3 qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the position. These might include your education, skills, or relevant experience.

Make sure the qualifications you mention align with the key requirements in the job description. If you have not already, consider using a Professional Inventory to identify the qualifications you want to highlight. Use a conversational tone and keep your sentences clear and concise.

The middle paragraphs should highlight the most important information from your resume that relates to the position you are seeking. Focus on the qualifications and experiences that align with the role.

You do not need to include everything from your resume. Instead, expand on the 2-3 key qualifications you introduced in the first paragraph. Dedicate each middle paragraph to one qualification, providing specific details and examples to demonstrate it.

When choosing what to highlight, consider:

• Education: Relevant coursework, degrees, certifications, or academic achievements.
• Experience: Key roles, internships, or jobs that relate directly to the position.
• Activities: Leadership, volunteer work, or extracurriculars that showcase relevant skills.
• Skills: Specific abilities or technical knowledge required for the job.
• Accomplishments: Noteworthy achievements that demonstrate your capabilities.
• Personal Characteristics: Traits that align with the company’s values or culture.

By focusing on these areas and using specific examples, you can show the employer how you are uniquely suited for the role.

The last paragraph should bring your cover letter to a strong close by summarizing your qualifications and reiterating your interest in the position.

• Restate your 2-3 key skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate.
• Express enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization.
• Include your preferred contact information, such as your phone number and email address.
• End with a professional thank-you, showing appreciation for the employer’s time and consideration of your application.

End your cover letter with something like this:

Sincerely,

Signature (For printed cover letters; in blue or black ink)

First and Last name (typed)