Cover Letter Writing
Printer-friendly versionCover Letter Writing Notes
*see sample cover letter attached at the bottom of this page
Cover Letter Requirements: name of firm you are applying to, position you are applying for, your contact information
♦Your cover letter should complement your resume, not reiterate it. The cover letter should focus more on the qualities you posess rather than what you accomplished (this should be on your resume).
♦ Limit the cover letter to one page. We recommend keeping it shorter than one page. Recruiters read cover letters quickly if at all, so focus on the most important qualities you want to exude. If you have too many words, some recruiters may neglect to read your cover letter at all.
♦ Make your cover letters as firm specific as possible. Speak to the qualities the firm values (the firm’s website is a good place to find these). Mention anyone in the firm you have networked with that might be able to vouch for you. State reasons why the firm appeals to you more than a competitor.
Cover Letter Format
Opening paragraph- State your major and where you go to school. Say where you found out about the position, and which position you are applying for. Always include the firm’s name somewhere in the 1st paragraph
Body paragraphs (2nd and 3rd if applicable)- Some people like to stick to 3 paragraphs, some like 4. We don’t advise you go beyond 4. This is the time when you say why you are interested in the position you are applying for and what qualities from experience you have. You can talk about something you learned at a job (ex. teamwork), or from class (reading financial statements). This is your chance to say why you are the best candidate for the position.
Final paragraph- Say why you are specifically interested in this firm. Include any people you have networked with and any special qualities the firm has that pique your interest. Impress them with how much you know about the firm and flatter them with compliments (don’t go overboard though).
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| Sample Cover Letter.docx | 12.01 KB |
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