Tips for writing a cover letter

Finding a job is a time-consuming process that most everyone will go through. There is a lot of work to do even before you get an interview. You need a resume, cover letters, references, and sometimes more. A resume and getting references are easy but what is a cover letter and how do you make one? 

A cover letter is a one-page document that sums you up as a person. It goes along your resume when you apply to certain jobs. However, it is different from a resume because a cover letter will show a small amount of your personality, professionalism, and enthusiasm to work. This is your chance to explain why you're the best person for the job. 

So what should you include in your cover letter: First, you need the employer’s contact information at the top left corner and you should address the employer in the salutation, some examples “Dear hiring manager,” or “Dear (company name) team,” you can also address the hiring manager directly if you know their name. Try your best to include the company’s full name, title, company name, and address. Next, you should include a strong introduction where you state the position you are applying for and where you found the job whether it was a job board, their website directly, or a friend. Express your interest in the role and introduce yourself briefly. Then create body paragraphs where you highlight two or three qualifications that you have that aligns with the position you are applying for, it is good to provide examples from your past roles. Finally, create a professional closing with your full name and contact information under your signature. 

Now that you know how to write one, here are some tips for making it a strong cover letter. To start, it's important to do some research about the organization before beginning your letter. Writing a strong letter requires knowing where you're applying and what the position entails. Also, It is a good idea to include any accomplishments or experiences that can help you stand out to the company in the body paragraph. If this is your first job, it's a good idea to link the position to an extracurricular activity, personal or academic leadership, or internship. But avoid disclosing too much personal information, such as unrelated interests or salary expectations. Lastly, make sure your cover letter matches the position you are applying for. Employers can tell when a cover letter is generic, so use the keywords you find when doing your research.