Cover Letter Guidelines

Your Street Address
Your City State Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your E-mail Address

(double space)

(4 to 8 lines below the date)

(double space)

(double space)

Introductory Paragraph. Grab the reader's attention! Include a brief overview of why you would be of value to that organization (education, experience, skills, knowledge areas, personal qualities) or mention something you know about the company that will make a good first impression (its products or services). State why you are writing (position or type of work) and how you learned of the opening (Career Services, news media, friend, employment service).

(double space)

Body (1 or 2 paragraphs). Keep the reader's attention! Sell your value. Highlight your key qualifications for the job. (Read the job ad carefully.) Include accomplishments and achievements. If you are a recent graduate, explain how your academic background makes you a qualified candidate for the position. If you have had some practical work experience, point out your unique qualifications. Do not repeat the same information the reader will find in your resume. Refer to the enclosed resume and/or application form, which provide(s) details of your qualifications, training and experience. (You can include the reference to the resume in one of the other paragraphs.)

(double space)

Final Paragraph. Make a final sales pitch! Include something that will help them remember you. Mention additional qualifications or recap qualifications mentioned earlier. Indicate your desire for an interview. Suggest alternative dates and times, or mention your flexibility as to the time and place. State that you will call them or hope to hear from them (call to action). Refer to your contact information (phone number, e-mail address). Offer assistance to help in a speedy response. Thank the person for their time.

(double space)

Sincerely yours,

(4 spaces for your handwritten signature)

Your Typewritten Name
Enclosure (Or "Enclosures." Denotes enclosed resume, application form, etc.)

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Updated 07/01/09