Help with Cover Letter Format

General Forum
1

Hello people…I’m working on my cover letter and could use some advice on the best format to use. What should I include to make it stand out? Any tips or examples would be really helpful! Y’all amazing!!

2

Hey Alex!

Crafting a standout cover letter is a great way to make a strong impression.

Here are some tips and a basic format to help you out:

Format

  1. Header
  • Your name
  • Your address
  • Your phone number
  • Your email address
  • Date
  1. Employer’s Contact Information
  • Name of the hiring manager
  • Company name
  • Company address
  1. Greeting
  • Address the hiring manager by name if possible. If not, “Dear Hiring Manager” works too.
  1. Introduction
  • State the position you’re applying for and where you found the job listing.
  • Briefly introduce yourself and mention something that excites you about the company or the role.
  1. Body Paragraphs

  • First Paragraph: Highlight your most relevant experience and skills. Use specific examples to show how you’ve succeeded in previous roles.

  • Second Paragraph: Explain why you’re a great fit for the company. Mention any unique skills or experiences that align with the company’s needs and culture.

  1. Closing Paragraph
  • Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
  • Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.
  • Mention that you’ve attached your resume and that you look forward to discussing your application in more detail.
  1. Sign Off
  • Sincerely,
  • Your Name

Tips

  • Tailor Your Letter: Customize your cover letter for each job application. Show that you’ve done your research and understand the company’s needs.

  • Be Concise: Keep it to one page. Focus on your most relevant skills and experiences.

  • Proofread: Ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors. A well-written letter reflects your attention to detail.

Hope this helps! Good luck with your job hunt! Anyone else have additional tips or success stories to share?

3

This is not the recommended format for cover letters, yet I work in academics. They ought to be organized, in my opinion:

First Paragraph: Salutations
Paragraph 2: Why your company/school is outstanding
Paragraph 3: Why I’m Awesome
Paragraph 4: (reasons why we’d be wonderful together)
Section 5: Concluding
Everybody boasts about their credentials, but most employers are more interested in “fit.” Prove to them that you’re a good fit.