The Cover Letter

When do you need a cover letter?

Whenever you are sending a resume to a prospective employer, whether you are:

Introduce yourself and your reason for writing – if you were referred to the company by a mutual friend or associate, mention him/her
Sell yourself – highlight how you can benefit the company
Make a plan – indicate what you would like to happen next

One page, brief, concise, and to the point
First paragraph: Grab the recipient’s attention. Say exactly why you sent your resume; i.e., you are interested in the company, and you want to fill a need they have. Indicate any connections between the employer and yourself (work in same field, same professional interest, you have been following the company in the news).
Second paragraph: Briefly state skills you bring to the table that will specifically meet the employer’s needs. No need for great detail. Resume should take care of that. Highlight how you will use your talents and experience to benefit the company
Close the letter by indicating what you would like to happen next. Indicate how you can be reached and that if you don’t hear from them within a few days, you will follow-up with a phone call to make sure your resume and cover letter have reached the intended recipient and arrange an interview.
Use 8 ½ x 11 white or off-white bond paper. Resume and cover letter paper should match.
No errors in grammar, punctuation, or spelling. No visible corrections.
Note enclosure of resume in body of letter and proper enclosure notation.
Tone of letter is consistently formal or informal. Salutation and closing are both formal for a formal letter, or informal for an informal letter.
Use business letter size envelope (approximately 9 x 4) the same color as the paper. Name and address on envelope should be identical to the inside address of the letter.