SOU CG 2024-24 DM Accessible - Flipbook - Page 16
Writing Cover Letters
Your cover letter is your first impression
with an employer. It is an opportunity to
showcase your interest in the job and make
an argument for why you are a good fit.
Before You Write
Cover Letter Template
Header: Your name and contact information
Salutation: Dear [Name or Hiring Coordinator, if no name is
given]:
First Paragraph:
■
Introduce yourself, but no need to start with “My name is…”
■
State the position you are applying for
■
Describe how you heard about the job
Review the job posting carefully. Notice the skills that are
emphasized, and be sure to highlight them in your cover letter.
■
If you are enthusiastic about this particular role, employer,
or industry, show it
Identify keywords in the job description. Many employers,
especially larger companies, use Applicant Tracking Systems
(ATS) to sort through applications. Keywords from the job
posting will help your cover letter pass ATS.
■
If someone in your network referred you to the company,
mention them
Customize your cover letters for each position.
Research the company. Browse their website and social media
to get an idea of their mission, values, and company culture.
Writing Tips
Clear, concise writing is always best, but this
is especially true in cover letters. Hiring
managers will not have the time to sort through
wordy prose. Get to the point and limit your
cover letter to one page.
Use correct grammar and spelling. Typos
may make an employer question your skills or
commitment. Proofreading is always worth it.
Keep your tone business appropriate. While
your cover letter should highlight your personality,
you still want to present yourself as a professional.
Avoid slang and overly familiar language.
Don’t just repeat information from your resume.
Expand on your experience and show how it
connects to this specific position.
Avoid conditional language, i.e. “I think I would
be a good fit.” Show the employer that you know
you will be a valuable member of their team.
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Body Paragraph(s):
■
Identify the employer’s needs and how you are uniquely
positioned to meet them
■
Elaborate on your skills and relevant work, education, and
extracurricular experiences
■
Use specific, results-oriented statements
■
Feel free to organize the information in bullet points
Closing Paragraph:
■
Thank the hiring manager for their consideration
■
Reiterate your interest in working for the company
■
Ask for an interview and state when you will follow up
■
Include your preferred method of contact (email, phone, etc.)
Signature: Use a formal closer such as “Sincerely,” “Regards,” or
“Respectfully,” and sign your name.
If you need help writing your cover letter, schedule an
appointment with the Office of Career Connections. To get a sense
of content, length, and tone, you can read through a sample cover
letter on page 17 or at careers.sou.edu.
