Cover Letter

Make sure to include your complete contact information at the top of the letter. See the Model of a Cover Letter PDF example to see how to format this correctly.

Address the letter to the person who has the power and ability to hire you. Take time to look up a contact via the organization's website or in the posting. Avoid sir, madam, or to whom it may concern.

Keep the letter to one page and avoid using too many 'I' statements.

State the position to which you are applying.

Indicate how you learned about the position.

Target your letter and focus on the organization's needs. Use key information included in the position, research the organization using their website, and use one of the online resources in the Career Resource Center to research organization specifics.

Highlight your qualifications in relation to the position description.

Draw on your experiences and site-specific examples.

Do not repeat what is already on your resume.

Incorporate keywords included in the job description.

Let the reader know how you will contribute to the position.

Restate your interest in the position.

Push for a follow-up and indicate your ability to be available for an interview.

Make follow-up easy and restate your phone number and email address along with the best times to be contacted.

Express appreciation for their time and consideration.

Close with sincerely, respectfully, etc.

Use a handwritten signature or a digital version of one.

Include your typed formal name below your signature.