Cover Letters

The cover letter is just as important as the resume and should be included with every resume that is sent to a prospective employer. Its purpose is to connect your resume with the needs of the employer. Therefore, it should not be a form letter, but should be individually written to each employer in standard business format.

Cover Letter Do's and Dont's

Do's

• Address the letter to a specific person
• State the job for which you are applying
• Highlight key strengths that are relevant to the employer
• Summarize relevant education and experience
• Include phone number and when you can be reached
• Write your signature

Dont's

• Present an unprofessional writing style
• Send generic letters to everyone
• Use poor grammar, punctuation, or misspelled words
• Be self-focused instead of employer focused
• Grossly exaggerate or use overly aggressive tone
• Use bland, boring, or copied text