Clever Cover Letters

Now that you have a better idea of where you would like to apply for a job, what comes next? As a college student or recent graduate, you have most likely written at least one cover letter and resume by now (and if not, now is the time to start practicing!). I know there are plenty of other exciting things you rather be doing with your time than, but having an awesome cover letter and resume can be a critical factor in determining whether you get a job or not. 

For those of you who are not familiar with a cover letter, it’s a three paragraph business formatted letter that you send to the hiring manager at a company. It explains your interest in working for the company, which position you are applying for, why you are the best person for the job, and that you are looking for an interview. The cover letter goes on top of your resume and gives you the opportunity to briefly introduce yourself. It also allows the employer to get to know you a little more than a resume can. So, the only problem now is figuring out what to write! 

The first paragraph in your cover letter should really STAND OUT to the reader. Well, not literally cap locking words to stand out, but your writing should be dynamic. It’s great to mention something positive you heard about the company, and why this company interests you over other companies. Hey, a little brown-nosing can never hurt, right! Also, remember my last blog about networking and making connections? Employers really like to see that you’ve already made a connection with an employee by using that person as a referral. It shows you have a deep interest in the company and it’s very important to mention this in the first paragraph, otherwise, manager might scan right over it. 

Now, you should sell yourself. And no, I don’t mean like the girls that hang out on the street corner! In the second paragraph, you want the employer to realize that you really have all ‘the right stuff’ for this job. Take a few minutes to think about what makes you special, and why hiring you, over the other hundreds of applicants, is a great idea. Think along the lines of what you can do to benefit their company. For example, explain a huge accomplishment you made in a few sentences, or experiences that qualify you for the position. Writing that you are “I’m a hard worker,” is not only boring, it’s pretty lame. I know you can come up with something a little more exciting than that! Try something more like this: “During my summer internship at WPRO, my experiences prove I work well as a team leader under strict deadlines.” A few strong sentences like that will want to make the employer call you. 

The closing paragraph is just as important as the first, not that the second paragraph isn’t important, but people tend to remember things they read first and last. For this paragraph, the most essential part is to not just ask, but declare that you want an interview. You can do this by simply stating, “I’m look forward to meeting you to discuss my qualifications…” After this, write your contact information (more than one preferably) and say something like, “I will be calling you on…” and name the day you will call for a follow up with the employer. 

And now… for the big finale! To make your cover letter complete, sign the letter with “Sincerely” and your name. Voilà, you’re done! Now that wasn’t so hard, was it? 

Perfect example of what NOT to put on your resume: 

Also keep in mind:

*Address the cover letter to a person, not just “To whom it may concern.” If you aren’t sure where to send the letter, search the company website or call them and ask.

*A cover letter should reflect your personality and have no errors

*Your cover letter is important because it’s the first thing an employer looks at

*The letter should be typed on the computer, and sign your name in pen at the bottom

*Keep the letter short, managers are busy people, and probably won’t read an essay length letter

For More information, follow these links I found on the University of Rhode Island Career Services page.