How to Write a Cover Letter for an Application
Posted: March 25, 2021 | Author: Savannah Byers | Read Time: 3 minutes
You’ve learned how to write everything from lab reports to discussion posts in your degree program, but perhaps writing a cover letter wasn’t covered in the curriculum. Here’s a quick guide, condensed from the Southern Utah University Career and Professional Development Center’s guide on how to write an effective cover letter, for your next job application or internship.
“When you apply for a job, including a cover letter shows that you are professional and thoughtful,” according to the Career Center. “It gives the employer a little more information about why you want that specific job and how you would benefit them.”
Format Your Cover Letter
When formatting your hiring documents (cover letter, resume, and reference list), consistency and visual appeal are crucial. Begin by figuring out the formatting you would like to use, and stick to it throughout the documents. Formatting includes font, size, spacing, indentation, headers, footers and margins.
To the left is a sample cover letter from SUU’s mascot, Thor Thunderbird. It gives you an idea of how the cover letter should be formatted and where each piece should be placed.When formatting your hiring documents (cover letter, resume, and reference list), consistency and visual appeal are crucial. Begin by figuring out the formatting you would like to use, and stick to it throughout the documents. Formatting includes font, size, spacing, indentation, headers, footers and margins.
When saving your cover letter, and your other hiring documents, it’s important to save as a PDF file. Formatting on Google and Word documents can change depending on the device or platform used to open them, whereas PDF formatting remains the same across the board. Additionally, when saving your cover letter be sure to use a clear file name. For example, instead of “Document1” try “CoverLetter2021”.
Add a Salutation
Salutation is another word for greeting. In your cover letter, the salutation will be the first thing the hiring manager sees. Therefore, it’s important to be cordial and professional in your salutation.
First, be sure to include the date at the top of the page beneath the header. Next, list the full name, position, and address of the person whom you are writing. Finally, greet your potential employer. Never use, “To whom it may concern.” Instead, say Dear Mr./Ms./Mx./Dr. [last name], Dear Hiring Manager or Dear [position title]. Be sure not to assume the person’s pronouns. It’s perfectly fine to write, Dear [first name] [last name].
First Paragraph
The purpose of the first paragraph is to explain why you are writing. Be sure to state the position you are applying for, how you heard about the position and why you are specifically interested. Feel free to get creative in this space and let your voice and personality shine.
Second Paragraph
The purpose of the second paragraph is to explain why you are the right person for the position. A good way to get started on the second paragraph is to reference the listed qualifications and duties from the job description as a way to highlight you and your skills. That being said, try not to simply repeat the information they will read in your resume.
Add a Signature
Simply put, the signature of your cover letter is the closing. The best way to sign off is to write “Sincerely,” then type your first and last name in the next line. An actual hand signature is also necessary in this section of your resume. There are many ways to include a handwritten signature on a digital document such as using an ink pen, drawing on a digital device, scanning an ink signature, taking a photo of an ink signature, or using an e-signature app. Find the way that works best for you and your available resources.
As you write a cover letter, remember the most important aspect is to make it personal. Write naturally and try not to force anything. Create a cover letter that feels right to you. For more information on writing a cover letter visit SUU's Career and Professional Development Center.
Tags: Career Center
