Cox Career Management Center

Letters

Prepare a Cover Letter

A COVER LETTER specifically tailored for the position and company should always accompany the resume unless otherwise instructed. The letter should be a one page, 3 or 4 paragraph letter introducing you to the employer. It should create sufficient interest so the recipient will then read your resume. It should be error-free and look professional. To create a cover letter that will gain interest, follow these suggestions:

Create letterhead for the cover letter to match the header on the resume and reference page.
Use the same font and font size as the resume and reference page. If printing hard copies, use the same paper for all three documents.
Type your name and then write your signature directly above the printed name using blue or black ink. If being sent via email, just type your name or insert a digital signature file where the handwritten one would normally be placed.
Try to identify the name of the letter recipient. Call the organization and ask if necessary. Using the individual’s name shows personal interest and reflects your willingness to search out information if necessary.
Try wording the document so the focus is on the employer. Try to avoid using too much duplication of “I”, “me” or “my”.
Keep the paragraphs short (five or six lines).

The three sections of a cover letter:

An Opening Gains Attention. State the reason you are writing and how you found out about the position. Be sure to include the job title or job code in this paragraph.
The Body Builds Interest. Describe your strongest qualifications that match the job description. Keep in mind that your resume emphasizes what you have done. The cover letter stresses what you can do for the employer.
The Close Motivates Action. Summarize and restate your interest. Include the next step. (Call? Email? ) Thank the person for considering your documents.

Resources

Prepare a Thank-You Letter

Don’t forget to send a thank-you letter after your job interview. An email letter is acceptable but it is nice to follow it with a handwritten note as well. Make sure you send your letter no later than 24 hours after the interview.

Use the same letterhead (with same font and font size) used for your resume and cover letter. Keep your letter short and to the point.

Career coach Mary Jane Vincent recommends that thank-you letters include the following points:
(1) express appreciation for the time and information the interviewer shared, (2) restate your interest in the position, (3) review your qualifications related to the essential requirements for the job, and (4) add any relevant accomplishments that may not have been covered previously.