Need your cover letter critiqued?
- Take advantage of ACES Career Services drop-in hours:
- The Career Center Resume Review: M-F 11:00-4:45 pm
- Schedule an appointment with ACES Career Services
Sample Cover Letters
VAULT Guide to Resumes, Cover Letters and Interviews - only available to currently enrolled Illinois students
Writing a Cover Letter
Cover letters provide an opportunity to distinguish yourself from other job seekers. You should always include a cover letter to introduce your resume when responding to a job opening via the postal service or when it is requested as part of the application process.
Tips for writing a cover letter
- Be brief. A cover letter should be no more than one page long. Make every word count.
- Don't mass produce one letter; write each letter individually and tailor it to individual employers and/or specific positions. This means more than just changing the addressee.
- Use your own words; let your personality and enthusiasm show through. Avoid words that you are not comfortable using in everyday speech.
- Be persuasive and use strong action verbs.
- Don't overuse the word "I." Focus on the employer's point of view.
- Be sure to sign your letter.
Content
The first paragraph is the most important. It should capture the reader's attention and motivate him/her to read the rest of the letter and to look at your resume. Describe specific personal knowledge of the company and avoid broad generalizations. Tell the reader why you are writing the letter. For instance, are you applying for a particular job, or are you inquiring about a possible position?
The second, and maybe third, paragraphs explain your qualifications and how they pertain to the position. Begin with a statement that summarizes the theme of your letter. Discuss why you want the job, and what benefits you will provide the company. Explain how your experiences, whether they be work, academic, extracurricular, or volunteer, make you a good candidate for the position. Do not repeat information on your resume unless you elaborate or apply it to the specific position for which you are applying.
The final paragraph suggests your plan of action. Explain to the reader what you want and what you plan to do. Refer the reader to your enclosed resume. Express your desire for an interview, and mention that you will call after a specified period of time. Thank the reader for his/her time, and provide your contact information. Close with a statement that encourages a response.
Links to other great resources:
- JobWeb.com information provided by the National Association of Colleges and Employers
- resumecoverletters.org provides information and tips for writing a cover letter
- Writing a cover letter - referenced from The Career Center
- Cover Letter Video
- Cover Letter Cheat Sheet (pdf)
