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Cover Letters

A cover letter is an invitation for a potential employer to read your resume. A cover letter should be mailed to an employer with your resume. The purpose of this letter is to present your skills and experience. Cover letters highlight your writing ability and allow you to make a case for why you are a good candidate for this particular job.

Cover letters should be:

  • Well-organized, focused, and concise.
  • Individually tailored -- never use a form letter.
  • Addressed to an individual by name.
  • Written in your own words.
  • Centered on the page with one inch margins.
  • No more than one page in length.
  • Closed with a request for action (i.e. meeting, phone conversation)
  • Signed in ink.
  • Printed on the same paper stock as your resume.

Cover Letter Guide