Before you apply for your dream job, check out these tips that will make your cover letter stand out.
Tip #1: Keep it brief.
Your letter should not go over one page. Use short paragraphs and bullet points whenever possible. Avoid
flowery or excessive words when fewer words will get your point across equally well.
Tip #2: Be assertive and proactive.
Explain what special skills and qualities you can bring to the job. Don't explain what the job will do
for you. Avoid empty cliches, such as “I am a self-starter” or “I'm a people person.” Use active words and
phrases. Avoid “are” and “is.”
Tip #3: Tailor the cover letter to the specific company.
Don't write generic praise about the company. Be as specific as you can and demonstrate your knowledge
of the company. Research the company using its own website, as well as business information sites such as
www.hoovers.com and www.fastcompany.com. Check
news sources for recent company events that you can reference in your letter.
Tip #4: Revise your cover letter for each application.
Different aspects of your background will fit different jobs. Focus on relevant job experiences and skills.
For instance, an employer for a research position probably wouldn’t be interested in your creative writing
skills.
Tip #5: When writing about non-professional experiences, translate them into “business-
speak.”
Explain how your class-related, extracurricular or volunteer activities have prepared you for other kinds of
work. Compare:
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"I was president of the French club."
|
vs. |
"In my term as president of the French club, I developed valuable leadership skills as I organized a 10
person team to undertake fundraising activities."
|
Tip #6: Address your letter to an individual rather than a department.
Call the company directly to identify the proper addressee. Use formal language (Mr., Ms., Dr.) when
addressing them, and never just their first name—even if you know them personally.
Tip #7: Appearances count.
Use high-quality white paper; it’s thicker than typewriter or printer paper. Avoid elaborate or colored
stationery. Print a clean final copy to send, not a photocopy.
Tip #8: Let the employer be the judge of your skills.
State your skills and qualifications, but don’t tell the employer that you are the best person for the job. It
can appear arrogant and presumptuous. Impress the employer with your skills, and let them conclude you
are the best person for the job.
Tip #9: Proofread!
Typos will land your letter in the trash. Check grammar, spelling and especially the spellings of names. Have somebody else
read your letter—they can pick up on things missing from your letter. Before mailing, make sure
you’ve included your resume and any other requested items.
Tip #10: Follow up with a thank-you note.
A thank-you note demonstrates your interest in the job and will help them keep you in mind for the
position.
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