We’re in the business of storytelling and that includes sharing the details about our own work.

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of writing a cover letter, it’s crucial to understand what it is and why it matters. A cover letter is your personal introduction to a potential employer. It completements your resume by providing a narrative about who you are, what you bring to the table, and why you’re the ideal candidate for the job. In the communication field, where storytelling is paramount, a cover letter is your first opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills.

Structure of a Cover Letter

Header

  • Contact Information
    • Your name, phone number, professional email, city & state, LinkedIn URL, portfolio link (if applicable)
    • Same as how you have your name and contact information on your resume, include that on your Cover Letter.
  • Employer’s Information
    • Company Name
    • Department you’re applying to
    • Position Title
  • Date
  • Salutation: Dear Hiring Manager,
    • Try and find their name. Do your research!
    • Might be lucky and their name will be at the bottom of the job description listed as the contact person. Or you’ll get the title of the person you’ll be working with, then search the company site for that person.

Introduction Paragraph

  • Introduce yourself and the position you are applying for.
  • Write why you want to work at this organization.
    • Be specific, show that you did your research, say something specific about the brand, the company, the culture, etc.
  • If you networked with or were referred to this position by someone from the organization, mention that person’s name and title.
    • Include something from that conversation that made you want to apply there and what you believe differentiates this company from others in their industry.
  • Write what skills you will bring to the organization, not how you will benefit from the position.

Body Paragraphs

No more than two body paragraphs

  • First sentence of each paragraph, introduce one to two key skills mentioned in the job description that prove you’re a good fit.
  • Following sentences, describe where and how you have demonstrated that skill (i.e., job, internship, class).
  • Show don’t tell. Consider using the “CAR” method – Context, Action, Results. Describe in detail how you demonstrated this skill. Give examples, in one-two sentences.

Your cover letter isn’t meant to repeat your resume, nor does it describe every experience you’ve ever had. It’s about quality over quantity.

Pick key skills and provide examples from your previous work experience(s) that showcases how you are uniquely qualified to do the job for this organization.

Closing Paragraph

  • Reiterate your interest in the role.
  • Mention something you’ve learned about the company, how your passion, skillset, align with the mission/ vision/ goals of this organization.
  • Wrap up with a concluding sentence saying you look forward to hearing from them. Ex. “I look forward to hearing from you and your team.”
  • Include your signature at the end.

Writing Tips

Customization & Personalization

Whether it’s your resume or cover letter, always tailor your documents to the company and position you are applying for. Do your research! Google the company, their values, culture, recent projects. Tailor your letter to showcase how you align with the company’s goals and what unique value you bring to this role.

Include:

  1. Start with an attention grabber
    • Use company’s job description to identify and call out your relevant skills.
  2. Show that you’ve done your homework
    • Research the company – refer to the mission statement or other info you’ve discovered.
  3. Be specific about your skills & strengths
    • Illustrate your skills with detailed descriptions.
    • Follow up with concrete examples.
  4. Use numbers where possible
    • Quantify – demonstrate your achievements

Don’t be generic and cookie-cutter.

Hiring Managers have to read the same letter over and over again, about why this person wants the job. We’re in the business of storytelling. Be creative. Use anecdotes to demonstrate your skills, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. Describe your achievements in a way that captivates the reader and communicates the impact you’ve had in your previous roles.

Avoid…

  1. Repeating your resume
    1. Showcase the high points and paint a rich picture of who you are and what you’re capable of
    2. Resumes are straightforward, a Cover Letter has some flair and personal touches along with tone that’s warm and speaks directly to the reader.
  2. Focusing on your needs instead of the employer’s needs
    1. Don’t tell them what you want from them or what you’re hoping to get from this experience.
    2. Focus on them – What are the employer’s needs? How can you fulfill those needs?
  3. Using the pronoun “I” too much
    1. Goal is to capture the employer’s serious interest by advertising what it is you can do for them.

Formatting and Design

Now, creativity is essential, but it’s important to strike a balance. A professional format is key to maintaining readability. Choose a legible font, keep your letter concise and proofread rigorously.

See checklist below for more!

General Guidelines

  • Header matches your resume header and includes your name and contact information

  • Length: Max 1-page, single spaced. Keep to 3-5 paragraphs or 200-400 words (intro, body, conclusion).

  • Margins: are balanced and 0.5-1-inch wide

  • Font and Font Size: Stick to something legible and between 10-12 size font.

  • Addressed to “Dear [Hiring Manager]” (and if you can find their name even better)

  • Writing & Content: Letter is organized and easy to read. Written in an active voice, using strong action verbs.

  • Tailor your letter to the job description using specific examples to address the qualifications required or desired by the employer.

  • Show don’t tell: Your letter shouldn’t repeat or summarize your resume. Expand on your accomplishments. Everything should be true and a positive representation of yourself.

  • Proofread! Double check your letter for spelling and errors (especially the contact’s name)