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Career Services

Resources for learning about careers, setting up a resume, and finding jobs.

Cover Letters

A cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your unique value, differentiate yourself from other candidates, and build a connection with the hiring manager. While the importance may vary depending on the industry and specific position, investing time and effort into crafting a compelling cover letter can significantly strengthen your job application.

What to Include in a Cover Letter

1. Header:

  • Your Contact Information: Name, email address, phone number (optional)
  • Date: Current date
  • Company Information: Company name, hiring manager name (if available), address (optional)

2. Salutation:

  • Address the hiring manager by name (if possible) or use "Dear Hiring Manager."

3. Opening Paragraph:

  • Grab attention: Start with a strong hook that piques the reader's interest and highlights your value proposition. Mention the specific job you're applying for and why you're excited about it.
  • Connect your skills and experiences: Briefly showcase how your skills and experiences align with the company's needs and the specific requirements mentioned in the job description.

4. Body Paragraphs (2-3):

  • Showcase your achievements: Elaborate on your relevant skills and experiences, using specific examples and quantifiable results whenever possible. Use strong action verbs to demonstrate your impact.
  • Demonstrate your knowledge of the company: Show your research and understanding of the company's values, mission, and current projects. Explain how your goals and aspirations align with the company's culture.
  • Express your enthusiasm: Convey your genuine interest in the role and the company. Use positive language and highlight your eagerness to contribute.

5. Closing Paragraph:

  • Call to action: Express your desire for an interview and reiterate your qualifications. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.
  • Sign-off: Use a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name.

Additional Tips:

  • Keep it concise and focused: Ideally, your cover letter should be one page long.
  • Personalize it: Avoid generic templates and tailor your letter to the specific job and company.
  • Proofread carefully: Ensure your letter is free of typos and grammatical errors.
  • Use a professional format: Choose a clear font, consistent spacing, and appropriate margins.
  • Save it in a PDF format: This ensures your formatting remains intact when opened by the hiring manager.

Examples