Cover Letters
A cover letter is a short document that you send with your resume when applying for a job. Its purpose is to introduce yourself, explain why you are interested in the position, and highlight a few key skills or experiences that make you a strong candidate. Unlike a resume, which lists your qualifications, a cover letter tells more of the story behind them and shows how they connect to the specific job.
For employers, a cover letter is a way to see your communication style, motivation, and personality. For you, it’s a chance to go beyond the bullet points of your resume and show why you are a good fit for both the role and the company.
Parts of a Cover Letter
Greeting:
Address the letter to a specific person if possible (e.g., “Dear Ms. Smith”).
If you can’t find a name, use “Dear Hiring Manager.”
Don’t use “to whom it may concern.”
Opening Paragraph — Why Them:
Mention the job title you’re applying for.
Say how you found the job (optional).
Write about why you want to work with them — why THEIR company/that job in particular?
Research the company and mention something about what you found.
Potentially something specific about their mission, values, or the role that excites you.
End with thesis statement with the top two or three reasons why you would be a good fit for the role (leading into the "Why You” paragraph).
Choose the reasons based on what the job descriptions says the employer is looking for.
Middle Paragraph(s) — Why You:
Expand on the previous thesis statement/the top two or three reasons why you would be a good fit for the role — why do they want YOU?
Don’t just reiterate your resume bullet points, use specific examples that prove you have those qualifications.
You can use examples from school, work, volunteer experience, etc.
Conclusion Paragraph:
Wrap up by restating your interest in the position.
Thank them for their time.
Politely suggest connecting further.