Help with Cover Letter Format

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!!

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?

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.