Cover Letter FAQs
What is the purpose of a cover letter?
A cover letter is submitted with your resume to introduce yourself to potential employers. It will be the first thing employers see when they are considering you for a position and will give them an overview of your skills and qualifications.
How long is a cover letter supposed to be?
A cover letter should be concise. Typically they are three or four paragraphs long and NEVER more than one page in length. Remember: You do not need to include all of your most important skills in the cover letter because that is what your resume is for.
To whom should I address the cover letter?
A personally-addressed cover letter is necessary if you want to make a good impression. Do not address your cover letter "To Whom it May Concern" because it may very well become lost in a pile of other anonymously-addressed applications. Instead, find out the name and title of the person accepting the resumes and address your cover letter accordingly.
What information should I include in the cover letter?
The first paragraph should be a brief introduction that includes your name and credentials, the job title for which you are applying, and where you found the job posting. If you found the position on a job search engine, include the reference number in this paragraph. If you were referred by someone, include his or her name.
The following paragraph(s) will highlight a few key skills or assets you bring to the employer that are directly related to the position. Review the job description and incorporate the language used in the posting. Also, research the organization and tailor the letter to its specific needs, projects, mission, or other key points. Do not feel as if you need to summarize all of your skills here because a cover letter is an introduction to the employer; your resume will provide the necessary information about your work history.
In the last paragraph, thank the employer for reviewing your resume and request an interview. Also, be sure to include an action statement on how you will follow up with the submission of your resume by providing a date in which you will call to inquire about your application.
When do I submit a cover letter with my resume?
Always! A cover letter is an essential part of the application process so be sure to prepare one for every resume submission. Even if you know the employer or were personally asked to send in a resume for review, include a cover letter.
In addition, your cover letter should be tailored to each specific employer and reflect the thoughtfulness and time you spent preparing it. Do not submit a generic cover letter because employers will be less-likely to take your application seriously.
What contact information should I include in the cover letter?
Be sure to include your current telephone number and email, if applicable. Consider using the same header on both the cover letter and resume for consistency and to help the employer match them if for some reason the two documents are separated.
What are some common stylistic errors I should avoid?
- Using "I" too frequently
- Writing a wordy, overly-academic letter: Try to eliminate filler words and write in a natural, conversational manner
- Repeating words: Be aware of your vocabulary usage and avoid repetition
- Writing negative statements: Re-read your letter and be sure terms are positive