“Your cover letter is your handshake and your sales pitch all rolled into one.” – Big Interview
Format
Follow the formatting for a typical business letter – See example below.
Thoroughly Review Job Description
- Print the job description for which you’re writing the cover letter
- Review the different sections of the description, ie. Title, Entry/Mid/Sr level, Qualifications, Responsibilities, etc.
- Highlight/Underline the sections of the job description that:
- Excite you about the position/why you want the job
- You have done a similar task in previous work and can expound on your experience
Content
Paragraph One
State the title of the job you are applying for and briefly why you want that position. This first section should be a few sentences, not an entire paragraph – See example below.
Paragraph Two & Three
These paragraphs serve as the substance of the document. The goal is to use examples from your resume/experiences to show that you are qualified to do the job. For example:
- Position Description Reads: “Primarily serve and engage K-6 graders in after school program.”
- Cover Letter responds with: “Through my internship at Martin Luther King elementary school, I not only tutored students one on one in English skills, but supervised recess. I allowed for free time on the play equipment but took the last 5-10 minutes to engage the whole group in a team building activity before returning to the classroom.”
Paragraph Four
- Use can (but don’t have to) state the position for which you’re applying again
- Use the ending to personalize why you want the job and that you “hope to hear from them soon” or “would appreciate the opportunity to speak further about the opportunity”
Tips
Do
- Proofread & have letter edited
- Follow the business letter format
Don’t
- Include any information that cannot be verified
Sample Cover Letter
Syracuse, NY 13244
January 1, 2019
Chancellor Syverud Name of person or organization you are applying to
900 South Crouse Ave
Syracuse, NY 13244
Dear Mr. Syverud: Use ‘To Whom It May Concern’ if unsure of who to send it to
Paragraph 1: State what position you’re applying for and briefly why you’re interested in the role:
I was excited to learn of the opportunity to serve as a Career Advisor within Falk Career Services. I have worked with students in previous positons but if possible, I know I would excel if given the chance to assist students with understanding the necessary steps from college to career. I hope to connect with students in this role and provide them an experience that is supportive and informative during their time of transition.
Paragraphs 2 & 3: Pull specific responsibilities from the job description that you have experience with; demonstrate that experience by describing a couple examples from your experiences that coincide with the job description:
Of particulate interest to me is the ability to meet and connect with students one on one, as well as in groups. In a one on one session, I feel there is a sense of safety, where students know that they can ask any question, free of judgment from their peers. I believe I can create such a space because of my down to earth approach and the desire to teach instead of tell students what they should know about their career search. I’m seeking to engage them in their own process, whether it be searching for positions together, discovering a new area within a career field, or coming to a realization that better defines the search. I see my role as teaching them the skills to assist with that process, along with the most critical piece, being a caring and friendly office to visit.
Paragraph 4: Conclude with a sincere sentiment expressing your interest and your hope to continue in the process:
It is with great pleasure that I submit this application to you today. I am sincerely interested in serving as a Career Advisor for the aforementioned reasons, but also because I truly want to do this work with students. Thank you for your time and consideration
Sincerely, (Enter: 5 spaces, if possible)
syr.joinhandshake.com | falkcareers@syr.edu