Cover Letter Template
[Your Name]
[Address – Optional, can use email address here as well]
[Date]
[Name of Hiring Manager/Recruiter/Committee]
[Title (if known)]
[Address if known]
Salutation, [It is recommended avoiding the use of “Mr.” or “Mrs.”, since you may not be clear
of correct pronoun. Use Dear and name/committee, etc.] Example: Dear Hiring Manager]
First Paragraph. In this paragraph, state the reason for writing this letter, specifically the
position or type of work which you are applying and indicate a resource/friend/employee –
simply where you learned about the job. State specific names when applicable. Begin
explaining why you would be the person for the job… set up your story… Example: “I believe I
acquire the necessary skills and experience you are seeking and would make a valuable addition to your
team. The depth of experience I can offer will contribute to your aspiration to be successful.”
Second Paragraph: State why you are interested in this position, company, it’s products or services,
and above all, indicate what you can do for the employer. Build off your story set-up from the first
paragraph. If you are a recent graduate or currently pursuing your degree, explain how experiences
and your education has prepared you for the position. Be specific on any work or transferrable
experience. Highlight your strengths and achievements – explain how this suits you for this role. Make
sure you are explaining anything not found on your résumé. You will not inquire what the company
can do for you.
Third paragraph should refer the reader to any other material submitted which summarizes your
qualifications/training/experiences, etc. Reiterate why and that you are the person for the job.
Conclude with what you would like to happen next, i.e., if you want an interview, then request a
meeting. Indicate your flexibility, repeat your phone number and email and note any special hours of
availability (if applicable).
Saluation,
Name (Full)
Cover Letter Checklist
1. Heading
a. Your Contact Information
b. Date
c. Company Information
d. Formatting (Matches formatting of résumé heading
2. Salutation
a. Dear name or title
3. Content
a. References the position of interest
b. Identifies where you learned of the opportunity
c. Indicates why you are interested in position and organization
d. References your strongest and most relevant qualifications
e. Identifies follow up actions
4. Closing
a. Sincerely/Warmest Regards
b. Your Signature
Special Notes:
 ALWAYS TAILOR YOUR COVER LETTER!!!!
o If you use a template to send employers, make sure you are changing any specific
information pertaining to specific companies and employees
 PROOFREAD YOUR COVER LETTER PRIOR TO SENDING!!!!!