Cover Letter Guide

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The cover letter should highlight your resume by identifying how you are qualified for the position. Tailor your cover letter to the position for which you are applying, linking your qualifications with the job description and/or qualifications requested by the employer. In order that it stand out from the hundreds of cover letters (resumes, application forms, etc.) employers receive for each job opening, your cover letter should emphasize the specific abilities, talents, skills and accomplishments that make you the ideal candidate for that particular position. Highlighting one or two of your greatest strengths will increase the chances of your standing out in the recruiter’s mind. Articulating this information in your cover letter demonstrates your ability to write and communicate—skills that are highly regarded by many employers.

If your cover letter is effective, it will provide the reader with a sense of your approach and potential fit with the organization. Keep in mind that the employer wants to know what you can do for them, not why and how the position would benefit you.

To help you tackle writing your cover letter for an advertised position, follow the step by step guide.

Step 1: Know Yourself

Related content

• Step 1: Know Yourself
• Step 2: Know the Target Audience
• Step 3: Produce & Format
• Step 4: Proofread and Critique Your Letter
• Step 5: Send Your Letter
• Step 6: Keep Track with an Organizational System
• Step 7: Create Additional Types of Letters
• Using Social Media in your Job Search

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