What is a cover letter?

What should I include in my cover letter?

How can I learn what will impress prospective employers?

How do I read a job advertisement carefully?

How can I learn what my qualifications are?

What if I don't have a qualification the employer is seeking?

Why is it important to learn about companies before preparing my cover letter?

How do I format my cover letter?

How do I organize my cover letter?

What do I include in my heading?

To whom should I address my letter?

What do I write in my introduction?

How do I approach writing my argument?

What should I include in my argument?

In my argument, should I show off my knowledge of the company?

What do I include in my closing?

Is there anything I should do before sending my cover letter to potential employers?

What do I write in my introduction?

Begin your introduction with a greeting, such as "Dear Mr. Roberts." If your contact has a name like "Randie Owens" or "Pat Jenkins," and you are uncertain of his/her gender, address the letter "Dear Randie Owens."

In your introduction, begin by stating who you are and why you're writing. For example, if you're a student, state what university you're attending, what your major is, followed by the position you seek.

When you know your reader or have a connection to your reader, use your introduction to personalize your cover letter. You may mention the name of a professor who suggested you apply to the company, or a family member who works there. For example, "Professor Smith speaks highly of Turner Construction, and he advised me to write directly to you." If you drop any names, however, be sure that your reader has a positive relationship with the person you mention.

You can also bring up any previous conversations or meetings you've had with your reader. If you met your reader only once at a career fair, for instance, refer to a specific topic of conversation to remind him or her who you are, and then show your reader that you've been thinking about the conversation. For instance, "I've been thinking about our conversation at Purdue's Career Fair on Monday, February 12. I agree that a friendly disposition and strong work ethic are essential to success, and I believe I can bring these attributes to your corporation."