Section 1: Address and Date
- Include the current date, formatted as “Month Day, Year” (e.g., “November 5, 2023”).
- Address the letter to a specific department or person, if known. Use the recipient’s name for a personalized touch.
- List address of the company, including street, city, state, and zip code.
Section 2: Introduction
- First line should express interest and mention which position you are applying for (e.g., “applying for the [Position]”).
- Briefly share a summary of your professional background or qualifications.
- Express your genuine interest in the position and the company. Highlight what specifically attracts you to this opportunity.
- Present a concise and engaging thesis statement that summarizes your key qualifications and why you’re a strong candidate for the role. This thesis sets the tone for the rest of the cover letter.
What is a THESIS STATEMENT? A Thesis Statement is a statement that lists 3-4 skills that are relevant to the role you are applying for. It shows the reader that you have experience in the things they are looking for. The ‘Body’ of the letter elaborates on the thesis.
Section 3: Main Body
- This is the heart of your cover letter, where you provide evidence to support your thesis.
- Share 3-4 sentence stories or specific examples from your professional experience that demonstrate your qualifications for the job. These stories should align with the requirements and responsibilities of the position.
- Emphasize your key accomplishments and skills that make you a unique and valuable candidate.
- Use this section to draw a clear connection between your qualifications and the company’s needs, values, and mission. Show how you can contribute to the company’s success.
Section 4: Closing
- Keep your closing short and concise.
- Reiterate your interest in the position and the company. Restate why you’re excited about the opportunity.
- Express your appreciation for the time and consideration given to your application. Thank the recipient for their attention.
- Indicate your readiness for further communication and, if applicable, mention when you’ll follow up or your availability for an interview.
Cover Letter Pitfalls
- Avoid Generic Content: Don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company.
- Don’t Duplicate Your Resume: Your cover letter should complement your resume, not repeat it. Highlight your qualifications but avoid listing your entire work history.
- Avoid Lengthy Letters: Keep it concise. A cover letter should ideally be one page, so avoid excessive length.
- Don’t Neglect Proofreading: Never submit a cover letter with typos or grammatical errors. Proofread and edit carefully.
