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Cover Letters

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Cover letters have become essential to today’s society as they have become a very essential step that goes hand in hand with your resume, as well as relevant experience for the job you are applying to. To some, it may seem like a tedious procedure to create a cover letter, but they are very essential to help your professional life. Today, we’ll be looking at some tips to help create a cover letter.


Tips:

1. Start with your header: As with any standard business letter header, you should include a few pieces of personal and role-specific information at the top to make it easier for a hiring manager or recruiter to follow up with you. If you'd like, you can center your name and address at the top of the page, mirroring how it looks on your resume.

2. Include a greeting: In your research, try to find the name of the person reviewing applications for the job. Address your letter to this person with a common business greeting, such as "Dear [first and last name]" or "Dear [position title]." Avoid using "To whom it may concern."

3. Write an opening paragraph: In the first paragraph, mention the job title you're applying for and where you saw the position posting. Explain your interest in the role and company to show that you've done your research. The first section of your cover letter is also the first impression the reader will have of you, so it's important to appeal to that person quickly and succinctly.

4. Add a second paragraph: Your second paragraph should be a brief overview of your background as it relates to the position. Include key achievements, skills and specialties that make you particularly suited to the position. Focus on one or two and provide specific details about your success, including measurable impacts you made.Pay close attention to keywords listed in the job description and include ones that apply to you in the body of your cover letter. You should only include information about your most recent professional experiences.

5. Finish with a closing paragraph: The closing paragraph should focus on another key achievement or skill relevant to the position. Instead of repeating details from your resume, summarize a specific story or anecdote that shows you're right for the role. If you're changing careers, this is a good opportunity to talk about transferable skills or relatable experiences from your career.

6. End with a professional sign-off: End your cover letter with a paragraph summarizing why you are applying for the role and why you would be a great fit. Keep the cover letter conclusion brief and explain that you look forward to the employer's response about possible next steps. End with your signature at the bottom.

You can also stop by our office at C-102 anytime from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm if you need help with your cover letter.

Hope this helps!

Resources:

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/how-to-write-a-cover-letter

By: Carlson Nwawuru (career peer)

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