How to Write a Cover Letter

Cover Letters are perhaps one of the most important documents your future employer will see! Along with resumes, cover letters shape an employer’s first impression on who you are and what qualifications you have.  Below are some tips to keep in mind while writing your cover letter.

Be specific

Make sure you address the cover letter to the specific person within the company who will be reviewing your cover letter. Do research online and if necessary feel free to call the employer and ask for the appropriate individual's name and job title.

Sum up your qualifications
In the middle couple paragraphs, discuss your qualifications for the position. It is important that the employer know several of the key reasons why you are qualified, along with specific examples to prove your qualifications. However,  don't make it too wordy! On average, an employer reviews a cover letter for a 8 seconds. Because of this, key qualifications must be discussed succinctly!

Follow the formatting

Be sure to follow a strict business letter format when writing your cover letter. Examples of this formatting and sample cover letters can be found HERE.

Job Search Strategies in a Tight Economy

The Office of Career Services at IPFW held a workshop for alumni and community members. We discussed the importance of a strong resume and cover letter and how this is like your sales-pitch to a potential employer with hopes they'll buy the product, you.

Other topics covered in the workshop included:

• Networking - the majority of jobs are never publicly advertised; it's about who you know and who knows you; different ways to network in groups, individually, and online.
• Job Searching - utilize job board websites that are specific to your career focus, and follow up; view it as your full-time job and set up your "office" for productivity.
• Interviewing - this means you're qualified for the job, but the employer wants to hire someone that fits the companies mission; RESEARCH the company & send thank you letters.
• Coping with Job Loss - process any negative feelings you're having about past employers or your current situation so it doesn't affect your interview; set small achievable goals to help reach your large goal of gaining employment.

Here's the presentation given during the workshop. There are more resources on our website at www.ipfw.edu/career.

Job Search Strategies in a Tight Economy

View more presentations from Karen Obringer.