Contents of the Cover Letter

Applicant’s Address
City, State Zip
Date of Letter

Hiring Official’s Name
Title
Organization
Address
City, State Zip

Salutation: (If possible, address the letter to a specific person.)

First Paragraph: State the reason for the letter. If you are writing a letter of application, state the specific position for which you are applying and indicate where you learned about the position (Career Services, news media, friend, employment service, newspaper). State why you are interested in the position and why you want to work for this organization. If you are writing a letter of inquiry, define the type of position you are seeking and explain why you are interested in working for that organization. While writing either type of letter, try to attract the employer’s attention in an interesting yet professional manner. 

Second Paragraph: Refer to your resume. Summarize your qualifications without detailing the information provided in your resume. If you know the requirements for the position, try to outline how your education and experience qualify you for the position. Please note that you may combine the elements of the second and third paragraph. This may be useful if you are emailing your cover letter and resume.

Third Paragraph: Provide supporting evidence of your qualifications. You can do this by describing specific accomplishments or highlighting skills you have developed through work experience, course work, campus or community involvement, or other activities. Make every effort to connect your qualifications to the job requirements.

Final Paragraph: Establish a flow of action that produces a positive response. Suggest what you want the reader to do or what action you plan to take. Thank the employer. Repeat your telephone number and offer any assistance to help in a speedy response. Remember that the most important purpose of this letter is to motivate the employer to interview you. 

Sincerely,

(Your Signature)

Your Typewritten Name

Enclosure