how to write a cover letter top 5 cover letter tips

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5 Tips for a Great Cover Letter (and samples)

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Cover Letter Format & Samples

Cover letters are a fantastic tool to introduce oneself in the job search process and are as significant as the resume. A cover letter provides an excellent opportunity to demonstrate one’s interest in the organization and establish direct connections between the employer’s job description and one’s professional background. A well-crafted cover letter, tailored to the specific job and company of interest, and addressed to the right person, can make a lasting impression on the employer.

To make the cover letter effective, one must consider some universal tips and considerations when writing it. It is crucial to ensure that the cover letter is clear, concise, and free of errors. Using formal language and avoiding contractions can help maintain a professional tone. Choosing appropriate vocabulary and grammar can help maintain the original meaning of the text and convey a sense of expertise and professionalism, which is suitable for a business or academic setting. So, it is essential to take the time to craft a compelling cover letter that showcases one’s qualifications and skills to the employer in the best possible light.

In addition to the suggestions above, see our list of key considerations to crafting effective and valuable cover letters.

Cover Letter Tips

1. ) All margins should be approximately one-inch. Typically, a cover letter consists of three to four paragraphs.

2.) The font size should be easy to read. Times, Palatino or Helvetica are good choices. A font size of 12 pt. is preferable, but in some cases you may need to use 10.5 or 11 pt. font.

3.) Don’t be tempted to send “generic” letters. Each cover letter you write should be different, because each job and company you’re writing to is different. Make it easy for the reader to see the relevance of your qualifications to the job in question.

4.) Be sure to proofread each new cover letter you create so that it is free of errors.

5.) It is important to write to a specific person whenever possible.

In addition to these quick tips, check out our comprehensive  Job Search Letters  guide for more information on structuring cover letters and other job search documents.

• Sample 1:  Application Letter
• Sample 2:  Prospecting Letter

Finally, we know that some people work best when they have a format to follow. Especially when they are writing a document, like a cover letter for the first time. The following example reflects the correct business format to use when writing a cover letter:

Your name Return address City, State, Zip

Name of the contact person Title Company Name Address City, State, Zip

Dear Mr./Ms./First name Last name:

The opening paragraph states your reason for writing the letter. Mention a specific job of interest, or a particular department in which you are seeking work. If possible, mention how and when you learned about the job opening or the company, i.e., through a classified advertisement, a contact person or a career services professional. Be sure to mention the name of the person who suggested this job to you, especially if that person is highly respected within the company.

The middle paragraph is an opportunity to expand on the skills you have developed as they relate to this position. This should not merely repeat your resume. You can discuss your education and particular courses or skills attained while in college. If you’re an experienced person, you may wish to use this paragraph to describe your professional background and highlight any specific job experience that may be of particular interest to the organization and that will differentiate you from other applicants. You may need a second paragraph to fully describe your related abilities.

The next paragraph reflects the research you have done on that particular organization. Use company literature, a web site, or conversation with an employee of the organization as ways to gain knowledge about the organization. Explain why you are interested in the job, and convey your awareness of what the company does to show that you have done careful research.

In closing, reiterate your enthusiasm to be considered and ask for an interview. Either state a specific week you’ll make a follow-up phone call or mention an interest in having the contacted person call to set up an interview date. Specify how you can be contacted. Remember to thank the person for considering your application.

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Career Center

How to write a cover letter for a job: 5 essential tips.

By Guest Blogger

Published on Aug 10, 2021

Before you start writing your cover letter, read the job posting carefully. Pay attention to the primary responsibilities, as well as the desired skills and experience for candidates. Keep the posting handy so you can refer back to it while you write.

Customize your letter

One of the most important cover letter tips: do not use the same generic letter for all of your applications. Employers will be able to tell you didn’t take time to create a unique letter for them. Instead, open your cover letter by sharing why you’re excited about the job and employer, and why you’re the right candidate.

Supplement your resume, don’t repeat it

You include your resume in your job application, so don’t summarize it in your letter. Instead of listing your experience, highlight the reasons why you’re a good fit for the job. Is there an anecdote, project, or trait that doesn’t belong on your resume but illustrates your strengths?

For example, were you nominated as club secretary because of your knack for organized, color-coded spreadsheets? Does the manager at your part-time job regularly compliment your talent for turning angry customers into happy ones? These can help illustrate your attention to detail and interpersonal skills.

Include keywords and supporting details

It is common for employers to scan resumes and cover letters for keywords related to the job. Be sure to incorporate any skills or experience that you have that are listed in the description.

And while your resume lists your technical skills and experience, cover letters are a great opportunity to talk about desirable soft skills like communication and project management. If you’re mentioning soft skills, provide support. For example, if you want to highlight your leadership skills, you can detail the time you led a major group project that received rave reviews from your professor.

Address any missing pieces

Your cover letter is meant to highlight your unique strengths and tell the employer why they should interview you. If you don’t have a lot of experience on your resume, take time to outline your biggest strengths as related to the job—with concrete examples.

If you don’t meet all of the qualifications listed in the posting, mention this in your letter. Be forthright and use this opportunity to explain to the hiring manager why you’re still a good fit for the job.

Proofread and ask for feedback

Carefully read through your cover letter when it’s ready and check for spelling, punctuation and grammar mistakes. Have a friend or family member review it as well and give their feedback.

Don’t forget to contact your school’s  career center  and schedule an appointment to go over your cover letter, resume, and other application questions you may have.

Report of Handshake student blog