Cover Letter Contents
A cover letter written in response to an advertised job opening should contain certain key elements. If you’re not sure how to proceed, the following guidelines are a safe bet:
The Opening. Courteously state the position you’re applying for, and where & when you saw it advertised. Then give your background or current employment/education status in one sentence.
Example: Please accept my application for the position of "job title" advertised in "source" on "date". I am a third-year Nursing student looking for summer work. (OR I am a Civil Engineer with 6 years of work experience, available immediately.)
Why You? In one or two paragraphs, explain what makes you a better candidate than the rest. Highlight your relevant KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Accomplishments). Although the “A” in KSA has traditionally meant Abilities, your Accomplishments reveal much more about you (many people have the ability to climb Mount Everest, but very few have accomplished it).
Knowledge and skills are useful tools in accomplishing a task or goal, but it’s the results that count. Specifically state how your accomplishments benefitted (or will benefit) the employer. Remember that reducing errors, costs, duplication, waste, breakdowns, or accidents are just as important to the bottom line as increasing production, sales, customer numbers/satisfaction, morale, or efficiency. Communicating in these terms will put you on the same wavelength as an employer, and set you apart from the majority of other applicants.
Why Them? After researching a company or organization, state how its goals, philosophy, mission, business practices, service policies, innovations, etc. coincide with your own objectives, values, and background. Employers are always interested in why you want to work for them specifically, so tell them. And if you don’t want to work for that company, don’t apply there.
In the case of an anonymous employer, state what it is about the industry or field of work that appeals to you. Provide evidence (previous education, experience, involvement, or self-gained knowledge in that field) to support your statement.
The Follow-up. End the letter on an assertive but courteous note, suggesting further action. This shows you have a serious interest in the position and are willing to take the initiative.
Example: Please refer to my enclosed resume for more information. I will contact you by phone (or e-mail, fax, mail) on