Cover Letters: Your Personal Introduction
A well-written cover letter introduces you to employers and demonstrates your enthusiasm and fit for a specific role or organization. Whether you're applying for internships, graduate school, or entry-level jobs, a strong cover letter can make a lasting impression. Explore our resources at the Student Success Center to craft personalized cover letters that set you apart in your job search.
Cover Letter Tips and Tricks
Your cover letter is a crucial component of your job application; it’s your first chance to make a great impression on potential employers. Think of your cover letter as your professional story. This is your chance to narrate the journey of your career, highlighting the key experiences, skills, and achievements that make you the ideal candidate for the position. Unlike your resume, which lists your qualifications, your cover letter provides the narrative that ties everything together. Follow these tips and tricks to craft a standout cover letter.-
A cover letter serves as an introduction to your resume. It should highlight your most relevant experiences and skills, show your enthusiasm for the position, and demonstrate how you are a perfect fit for the company.
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Before you start writing, research the company and the position you are applying for. Tailor your cover letter to the company’s values, mission, and needs. Show that you understand what the company does and how you can contribute.
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Avoid using a generic cover letter for all your applications. Customize each letter to reflect the specific job and company. Mention the company name and the position title, and explain why you are excited about this opportunity!
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Your cover letter should have a professional format:
- Header: Include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information.
- Salutation: Address the letter to a specific person, if possible. Use “Dear ‘Insert Job Title’ Hiring Committee” or “Dear Hiring Team”.
- Introduction Paragraph: Begin with a strong opening statement that grabs the employer’s attention.
- Body (1-3 Paragraphs): Highlight your most relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. Use specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications.
- Conclusion: Summarize why you are the ideal candidate and express your enthusiasm for the position.
- Signature: End with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely,” followed by your name.
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A cover letter should be no longer than one page. Be concise and focus on your most relevant experiences and skills. Avoid repeating information that is already in your resume.
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Employers want to hire candidates who are enthusiastic about the job and confident in their abilities. Use a positive tone and express your excitement about the opportunity.
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Instead of listing job duties, highlight your key achievements and how they are relevant to the position you are applying for. Use quantifiable results when possible (e.g., “increased sales by 20%”).
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A cover letter with typos or grammatical errors can make a bad impression. Proofread your letter carefully and consider asking a friend, family member, or career advisor to review it as well.
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Maintain a professional tone throughout your letter. Avoid using slang, jargon, or overly casual language. Be respectful and polite.
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If you don’t hear back within a week or two, consider following up with a polite email or phone call to check on the status of your application.
Always remember to book an appointment with either Dawson Gremmels or Traci Beighle in the Student Success Center to get personalized advice and support for crafting your cover letter and making your job application stand out. They are here to help you succeed and can provide valuable feedback and guidance tailored to your career goals.