Don’t consider a cover letter as optional. Cover letters give context to your resume with an explanation of what role you are applying for, why you’d like to relocate, and what you have to offer an employer. The more opportunities you have to share with an employer, the better, whether they read it or not.
- Follow formal writing etiquette. Be sure your cover letter has the current date, organization name, street address, city, state, and zip even if it is going to be submitted online. Include a salutation such as Dear Human Resources, Dear Hiring Manager, or Dear Hiring Committee when you do not know the specific recipient (avoiding using To Whom It May Concern). When you do have a contact to send your letter to, write the letter to: Dear Mr., or Ms., or Dr. _________.
- Identify the role you are applying for. Remember that employers may have several open positions, so identify the position you are applying for and where you saw the job posting. Perhaps you were recommended to apply by a current employee and this is your chance to mention your connection.
- Use words from the job description. Pore over the job description, the company website, and their mission statement. Use key words you see there to describe your experiences that relate to the role and why you value their same priorities. Explain how your previous work experience and education make you well-suited for the role.
- Tell a story. Briefly write about your journey. What made you interested in your field or the organization to which you are applying? Maybe you had a positive interaction at a hospital, or you encountered a friendly salesperson at a store and decided you’d like to be a part of that organization.
- Don’t exceed more than three-fourths of a page. Wrap up your story and enthusiasm for the role with your key contact information (also found on your resume) and an enthusiastic closing statement such as, “I look forward to sharing more of my experience with you soon.”
Remember that recruiters and employers move quickly through candidates, and it is helpful if the cover letter, resume, and references pages look unified. Use the same font, headers, and branding to create a professional package.