Cover Letters

Goal: Provide more nuanced information about yourself and help employers recognize how you can benefit them and those they serve

Most professional job applications include a cover letter in addition to a resume and reference sheet. In some cases, cover letters are not requested by an employer. However, it is generally wise to submit a cover page or (at least) include a cover letter in the body of an email, along with an attached resume or job application.

Cover letters can also serve as a useful aid when preparing for an interview, since they include professional language to describe your most exemplary qualifications for a particular position.

Cover letters provide job applicants with the opportunity to:

  • Introduce themself - in a more narrative and nuanced way than is possible in a resume
  • Highlight their most relevant and impressive qualifications
  • Make it clear what they have to offer the employer and those they serve
  • Proactively address resume information gaps - if deemed necessary
  • Express enthusiasm and interest in a position and/or business/organization
  • Inspire employers to invite you to an interview

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Templates & Tips

A cover letter should emphasize what you can do for the employer (vs. the other way around).  Therefore, your cover letter should answer the following questions for them:

  • Does this applicant really want this job – ie. for the right reasons?
  • Will this applicant be better at this job than other applicants?
  • Could this applicant be a great fit for this business/organization?
  • Would it be worthwhile to interview this applicant?

Aids

Additional Considerations

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