A cover letter is a 1-page document addressed to a hiring manager, sharing what you can bring to a specific organization or opportunity you are applying to. It is an opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of the role and provide the hiring manager with tangible examples of the relevant skills and aligned values you possess. Cover letters are commonly submitted as part of applications for jobs, volunteer positions, or professional development opportunities.

This chapter outlines recommended practices in cover letter writing to help you create a document that is effectively tailored to specific opportunity you are applying for.

If I Already Provided My Resume, Why Do I Need To Submit A Cover Letter, Too?

Cover letters are commonly expected to be submitted as part of applications to complement, not repeat, the information on your resume. Many students make the mistake of not submitting a cover letter as part of their application materials. Crafting a tailored, well-written cover letter will increase your chances of making a good impression on the hiring manager, and getting an interview invite.

The objective of a cover letter is to articulate your match. Communicate how you will use your knowledge, skills and qualities to help the organization achieve their specific goals. Typically, job seekers spend many hours perfecting their résumé only to write a quick and generic cover letter. Yet this letter is your opportunity to tailor your message and demonstrate your unique style and abilities.

Watch: How To Write A Cover Letter That Sounds Like YOU (And Gets Noticed)

Effective cover letters balance professionalism with a personal touch. This video offers an overview of how to write a cover letter that reflects your authentic voice and highlights your individual strengths. It touches on key concepts that will be explored in greater detail throughout this chapter.

Step 1: Do your research. Before you begin crafting your cover letter, its important to gather information about the organization. This could include learning about their mission, values, recent achievements, staff, or details related to the department/project you may be working on. Start with visiting their website, social media accounts and locating news articles about the organization.

Step 2: Analyze the job posting. Save a copy of the job posting and analyze it. In a table, first identify the required qualifications, skills and responsibilities, and then, answer, “how have I met this criterion?”. This exercise will help you compile prompts on what stories and experiences to include in your letter.

Template table with example:

Reading Between The Lines Of A Job Posting

When reviewing job postings, it is common to feel that some requirements are outside your current skill set or background. However, many experiences you have had, whether in school, volunteering, or other activities, may actually have prepared you well for that role.

Job postings often list technical tools, work conditions, or qualifications that may seem unfamiliar or intimidating at first glance. If you look closely, many of these statements are clues about the skills, qualities, and adaptability the organization is truly looking for.

The key is to look beyond exact matches and identify transferable skills and qualities that demonstrate your potential. “Reading between the lines” helps you go beyond the literal and identify how your existing experience, even if indirect, can be a strong match.

Writing Tips

Format Of A Cover Letter

Quick Chapter Recap

• Always tailor your cover letter for the opportunity you are applying for.
• Proofread your cover letter for spelling and grammar errors.
• Unless specified otherwise, submit your cover letter as a PDF document to maintain the format. Remember to create a professional document name, such as “Cover Letter, Last Name, Job ID number”