Cover Letters
A cover letter is a way to introduce yourself to a potential employer. If you're applying for a posted position, it's called a letter of application; if you're inquiring about upcoming vacancies, it's called a letter of inquiry. The cover letter lets them know who you are and in what job you're interested. Less structured than your résumé, it allows you to creatively describe your talents and interests but don't get carried away! Here are some tips:
- Use good-quality paper and envelope, making sure résumé matches.
- Use a business format.
- Include an introduction, a body and a closing.
- Address the letter to a specific person. If you can't find the correct name, use the appropriate title.
- Avoid a gender-based salutation, jargon, slang and abbreviations.
- Make sure your cover letter is neat and error-free.
- Keep it to one page.
- Send an original letter, not a photocopy or form letter.
- Don't forget to sign the letter.
