McNEESE STATE UNIVERSITY
Many employers will ask you to include a cover letter along with your resume when applying for a job or internship. A cover letter is intended to provide an employer with more information on your specific skills and experience, and what makes you qualified for a job. Rather than repeating the information contained in your resume, think of your cover letter as an opportunity for you to introduce yourself to employers in a more personalized way than a resume allows.
A basic, professional cover letter should follow the following format:
1st paragraph – This should include some basic information about you, including your name, your major, the position you are applying for, and when you are expected to graduate/when you are available to start.
2nd paragraph – This should detail why you want to work for this employer. Before writing this paragraph, do some research into this organization or industry and find specific reasons why you are attracted to this company, including any personal connection you may have to the industry, the work that they do that you find inspiring, the availability of career advancement opportunities, etc.
3rd paragraph – This is your opportunity to sell yourself. Here, include the accomplishments that you think are applicable to the position, and explain how your strengths and skills will make you a valuable asset to their workforce.
4th paragraph – This is where to thank the employer for their consideration, and indicate that you are looking forward to an interview. Include your contact information, as well as a strong closing statement.
Submit your cover letter as a PDF file with the file name YOUR NAME-Cover Letter to make it easy for the employer to save the file and locate the file.
If you are submitting multiple documents, such as a cover letter, resume, and references, scan all three and combine them into a single PDF for submission, so the employer has only one document to open, review, save, and/or print. The employer will appreciate your efficiency!
Still need help writing your cover letter? Make an appointment with the Career and Student Development Center today!
Ms. Anna Grace Bizzle is an Academic Advisor for the College of Nursing and Health Professions. She earned her Bachelor’s and Master's degrees in Secondary Education from Mississippi State University. Her favorite part of advising at McNeese is being a resource for students as they get used to the expectations of college and helping students pursue their degrees at such a wonderful school.