Writing a cover
letter
What
is a cover letter?
It introduces you to a possible employer. It is
an opportunity for you to show that you can research, think and
write. It invites the employer to read your resume and portfolio
materials.
How do you write
a cover letter?
At the most basic level, a cover letter needs to
be well-written: clear and concise. It needs to be targeted to a
specific job and employer.
The beginning should attract the attention of the
empoyer. The middle highlights what you can do. This is the place
to address specific job requirements that you found in the advertisement
or where you explain why you are sending your resume to the employer.
The end typically reflects what you expect from possible employment.
A cover letter should let the employer know that
you have researched the company and what it does. For example, a
letter to a newspaper editor might mention a recent story from the
newspaper; a letter to a public relations firm might mention a well-known
client. You should explain why you want to work for this company.
You should provide clear reasons why the employer should hire you.
Tips for winning
letters
- Address the letter to a specific person.
- Be sure content is accurate.
- Triple check spelling and grammar.
- Edit, edit, edit.
- Show your writing abilities.
- Be creative but make sure it fits your audience.
Read a good
cover letter that landed a Chico State journalism student a job
at one of the nation's best newspapers.
Read
it....
