WHAT IS A COVER LETTER?

• A cover letter is a written introduction of your capabilities. It is your opportunity to SHOW the employer that you are the perfect fit for the position by linking your experiences and skills to the position requirements. It is a way to demonstrate your written communication skills. The goal is to emphasize your fit for the position.
  • Each cover letter should be tailored to each employer and position.
  • Your cover letter and your resume should be separate documents.
  • Always submit a cover letter unless the job posting specifically says a cover letter is not required.

HOW-TO:

• Review the job posting. What are the required and preferred skillsets? Identify which of your skills and experiences are relevant for the position – show that you’re qualified for the position by writing about those experiences.
• Use engaging language; make use of campus Writing Center if you need help with this aspect.
• Keep it concise, no more than one page in length.
• Spellcheck and proofread.
• Save document as a PDF and ensure formatting did not change upon converting to PDF.

HOW-TO:

• Cover letters should be in a business letter format, similar to the template below: