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Cover Letters

Tell your story

You have less than one page to convey your interest and qualifications. Tailor your message and be specific.  The best way to customize your story is to review the job description and identify 2-3 skills that you have that the company is looking for in their ideal candidate.

Cover letters are a tool to introduce yourself, serving as a bridge between your resume and the specific job to which you are applying. Therefore, there isn’t a “one size fits all” cover letter. A cover letter is also a reflection of your writing skills, so take time and care to proofread and review your document. It needs to be specific to the organization and position -- a generic cover letter will not help you, and will likely hurt your chances to be selected for an interview

When should I send a cover letter?

  • Applying through Handshake or another online database and the employer has requested it
  • Responding to a job posting
  • Sending a response to a referral provided by an alum, friend, or acquaintance

What content should I include in a cover letter?

An effective cover letter includes three paragraphs:

  1. Why you are writing?
    • Responding to an advertised opening
    • Inquiring about a possible opening
    • States WHY you are applying to, or are interested in, this employer
    • What position are you applying for
    • Demonstrate your company research
    • Mention your contact/referral if you have one
  2. What qualifications you bring to that specific position at that specific company/organization?
    • Highlights two or three experiences or academic achievements that directly relate to the qualifications the employer is seeking
    • Proves through examples of experiences and activities that you have key skills for the position—i.e., leadership, communication, problem-solving ability, and analytical skills
    • May begin or close with a summary sentence of your qualifications and a confident statement that you can make a contribution to the organization
  3. What do you want (i.e. an interview or an opportunity to further discuss your qualifications)?
    • May reference your enclosed or attached resume
    • Thanks the person and indicates that you look forward to speaking to or meeting with him/her, but indicates flexibility as to time and place
    • Optional: You may want to share that you will call the contact person at a certain time/day to discuss scheduling a meeting or an interview