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8.2 Writing an Effective Cover Letter

Clearly Reference the Job for Which You Are Applying

The first paragraph of your cover letter should state the specific job title and code (if listed),
as it appears in the job posting for which you are applying, and your interest in this position.
This information helps ensure that your materials are routed to the appropriate person. You
might also mention where you found the job posting or how you learned about the position;
it helps employers know which websites or bulletin boards are most effective in obtaining
applicants. If you wish, you can also include a subject line right beneath the mailing address,
with the job title and code as the subject. You might also state something about the company
and why you want to be a part of it.

Summarize Your Qualifications for the Job

After your introductory paragraph, write a brief paragraph that explains who you are and
summarizes your strongest qualifications for the job. Then include two or three paragraphs
that explain how you can meet the employer’s needs and why you would be an excellent can-
didate for the job. If you are transitioning to a new career, this is a good opportunity to discuss
your transferable skills. Remember to sell yourself!

Go back to the job posting and examine the specific requirements and preferred skills the
employer has listed. Ask yourself, “What does this employer want in an ideal candidate?”
Address those employer needs and how you can fulfill them. For example, you might discuss
where you have used the required skills in your past employment. It is best to stick with the
top three or four skills the employer is seeking and discuss how you possess those skills.
Don’t oversell yourself. Give the employer just enough information that he or she will look at
your résumé and want to invite you for an interview.

Try not to begin sentences with “I” or focus on yourself and what you can do. That information
is contained in your résumé. Write the cover letter based on what the employer has said he
or she needs, and state how you meet
or exceed those requirements. Discuss
the benefits of hiring you by stress-
ing your positive attitude, motivation,
work ethic, work quality, enthusiasm,
eagerness to learn, communication
skills, or other personal attributes that
make you an exceptional candidate.

Use the same terminology the organi-
zation has used in its job posting. For
example, one company may refer to its
personnel as employees, while another
company may call them partners or
associates. Speak the organization’s Monkeybusinessimages/iStock/Thinkstock
language by using the terminology that When writing a cover letter, customize it to the
is used throughout the job posting. needs of the company to which you are applying.

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