8 Writing a Cover Letter
Writing a Cover Letter
A cover letter is an important part of many applications. It’s a way to introduce yourself, explain why you are interested in an opportunity, and highlight your most relevant skills and experiences. A cover letter is a short (one-page) letter that tells your audience important information about you and why you should be chosen for the opportunity. You will see cover letters in things like:
- Job applications (especially for office-based jobs)
- Applications for competitive academic programs, colleges, and universities
- Applications for scholarships, grants, and awards
- Inquiries for job openings
- Setting up meetings with important people
This chapter will guide you through the process of writing an effective cover letter. You’ll learn about the key sections of a cover letter, how to structure your content, and which language to use to make a positive impression.
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a personalized document that accompanies your resume. Unlike a resume, which is a list of your skills, experiences, and qualifications, a cover letter allows you to speak directly to the hiring manager. It’s an opportunity to tell your story, explain why you are the best fit for the position, and encourage them to read your resume for more information.
Structure and Content of a Cover Letter
A typical cover letter has three main sections: an introduction, a body, and a closing. Let’s look at each section to understand its purpose and what it should include.
Introduction
The introduction is your opportunity to show why you are a good person for the job or opportunity. Here, you should:
- Mention the job or opportunity you are applying for and where you learned about it.
- Provide a brief summary of who you are and why you are interested in the position.
- Include a polite greeting and, if possible, address the letter to a specific person. You may be able to find the correct person’s name in the job posting or other information about the opportunity.
Example
| Dear Ms. Johnson,
I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Coordinator position at XYZ Company, as advertised on your website. I am a recent graduate with a degree in Marketing, and I believe my skills and experiences align well with the requirements of this role. |
Body
In the body of your cover letter, you should provide more details about your skills, experiences, and accomplishments that are relevant to the job. Try to include:
- A brief overview of your background, education, and relevant work experience.
- Specific examples that show your qualifications and accomplishments.
- A statement about why you are interested in this specific company or position.
Example:
| During my internship at ABC Corp, I gained hands-on experience in digital marketing and social media management. I was responsible for managing the company’s social media accounts, creating engaging content, and analyzing campaign performance. My efforts led to a 30% increase in online engagement. I am particularly interested in XYZ Company’s focus on innovative marketing strategies, and I believe my skills would be a great addition to your team. |
Closing
The closing section wraps up your cover letter. In this section, you should:
- Restate your interest in the position and the company.
- Invite the employer to contact you for more information or to schedule an interview.
- Show gratitude and end the letter politely.
Example:
| I would be honored to bring my enthusiasm and experience to XYZ Company. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely, [Your Name] |
Tips for Writing a Strong Cover Letter
- Be concise: Keep your cover letter to one page. Focus on the most relevant information.
- Use a professional tone: Be polite and use formal, professional language. Avoid slang or overly casual language.
- Tailor your letter: Write your cover letter specifically for each application. Mention the company, program, or organization by name and highlight experiences that are most relevant to the opportunity.
- Check for errors: Proofread your cover letter for spelling and grammar mistakes.
Activities
These activities will help you practice writing a cover letter and develop your skills.
Activity 1: Identifying the Parts of a Cover Letter
Look at the following cover letter and identify the introduction, body, and closing. With a partner, discuss what you see in each section and why it is important.
|
Dear Mr. Smith,
I am writing to apply for the Software Developer position at TechCorp, as advertised on your website. I have a strong background in computer science and experience working with software development teams.
I recently graduated from XYZ University with a degree in Computer Science. During my time at university, I completed a software development internship at ABC Inc., where I worked on various projects, including a mobile application that has over 10,000 downloads. My technical skills and collaborative mindset make me a suitable candidate for this position.
I would be delighted to join your team and contribute to your innovative projects. Please contact me at your convenience for further discussion. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
John Doe
|
Activity 2: Customizing a Cover Letter
Using the following information, write a cover letter for a job application. Include an introduction, body, and closing.
Job Description:
- Position: Marketing Assistant
- Company: Global Marketing Co.
- Requirements: Experience in marketing, strong communication skills, and ability to work in a team.
Your Information:
- Name: Jane Smith
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Marketing
- Experience: Interned at Local Media Inc., where you managed social media campaigns and assisted with marketing projects.
Activity 3: Peer Review and Feedback
Write a draft of a cover letter for a job you are interested in. You can find job postings online at sites such as https://www.indeed.com/. Exchange your draft with a classmate and provide feedback on the following:
- Does the cover letter have a clear introduction, body, and closing?
- Are there specific examples that support the applicant’s qualifications?
- Is the tone appropriate and professional?
- Is the language clear and easy to understand?
- Is the grammar and sentence structure correct?
After receiving feedback, revise your cover letter to improve its structure, content, and language.
