How to Write a Great Cover Letter That Employers Want to Read

Cover letters can be somewhat daunting to write. Figuring out how to brainstorm just the right words about why you would be a great hire is challenging. Yet, cover letters can be an additional opportunity to “wow” an employer.

Photo: Andrew Neel

What’s the point of the cover letter?

The goal of a cover letter is to intrigue the reader enough so that they want to take a closer look at your resume and further consider you for an available position. A resume already lists your most relevant skills and experiences. Therefore, a cover letter should expand on the highlights: a few of the most important things about you that are relevant for the job and the overarching “story” about why you are interested.

Start with the basics

The first paragraph is your introduction paragraph. Identify the specific position for which you are applying and how you heard of the opening. Include a summary statement about your qualifications for and interest in the position.

Make it easy for the employer to understand why you’re a good fit

The second paragraph, and possibly a third paragraph if you need it, are the “meat” of the cover letter. This is where you go into detail about the qualifications you mentioned in your introduction. Mention 3-5 specific "selling points" of your background that directly relate to the position.

Make sure you get specific and use examples. Simply writing, “I have developed strong leadership skills from my involvement on campus” does not tell a reader very much. Instead, include specific information about what your involvement is like and skills you actually developed or utilized. Talk about using communication skills when running a student org exec board meeting. Share how you utilized organizational skills to overhaul your fraternity’s financial and membership record keeping system. Explain how you learned about delegation and team dynamics in a leadership workshop and then implemented those strategies to lead a committee. Use examples and share real stories about how you actually put skills into practice and what results came of your efforts.

Then, take it one step further by connecting the skills illustrated by your example(s) to what the employer is seeking. What will your leadership, communication, organizational, and other skills allow you to do for them? To do this effectively, research the employer and read the position description carefully to know what skills and experiences are most relevant. 

End strong

The last paragraph is the closing paragraph. Conclude by reaffirming your interest and desire to work for the company. If you haven’t already, include specific details about that company that drew you to the position. Let them know your contact information (phone and email) and thank the reader for their time and consideration. 

Double check

When writing a cover letter, always use professional business letter format. Try to address the letter to a specific person. If the contact person is unknown, use a job title. Review your letter for grammar and punctuation.

That’s it! Remember to tailor your cover letter for each position for which you apply.

Want more cover letter help? Check out the cover letter resources in the Career Guide or bring your draft cover letter to University Career Center drop-in hours.