Learn the basics of a cover letter and how to write one. Webinar presented by Gregory A. Brightbill, MBA, MEd

Learn about the basic sections of a cover letter

 

Your Contact Information

  • Your name
  • Mailing address
  • Phone number
  • Email address

 

Employers Contact Information

  • Hiring manager's or supervisor's name
  • Position
  • Organization
  • Mailing address
  • Phone number
  • Email address

Opening Paragraph

  • State the position to which you're applying
  • State where you found it/heard about it
  • Name drop if you have a direct connection
  • Close with a ‘hook’

Academic Introduction (Optional)

  • State the college you are attending, your degree
  • Relevant classes you’ve completed (give a brief description of skills exhibited through the course)
  • Any other relevant academic information such as mentors, professors, dissertation committee-members

 

Body Paragraph

  • Connect your skills, characteristics, experiences, and qualifications to the position and company
  • Highlight what interests you in working with this organization
  • Connect the "why you" and the "why them" (see the video above for more details)

Conclusion and Formal Closing

 

  • Reaffirm your qualifications and interest in the position and the company
  • Be sure to include your contact information
  • Could offer to follow up with the employer
  • End the letter formally with your full name

 

 

Format and length of a cover letter

Font

  • Utilize the same font and colors as resume/CV
  • Font size should be 10-12

Length

  • Less than 1 page (double spaced)
  • 3-5 paragraphs
  • 200-400 words
Cover Letter Template Thumbnail

Cover Letter Template

Need help writing a cover letter? Try this easy-to-use cover letter template!

File type: docx


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