| Because your cover letter is the first time you "speak" to an employer, it has to be "letter-perfect" and professional in appearance.
Do...
- Address the letter to a specific person, not a title.
- Tailor the letter to the job and the organization. It shouldn't be "canned."
- Show your enthusiasm for the job.
- Keep the letter to one page.
- Keep the paragraphs short and to the point.
- Use action verbs to describe what you've done.
- Experiment with different wording. If you don't think a paragraph is perfect, try to write it another way.
- Type or use a word-processor. No hand-writing- unless specifically requested to provide a hand written
- Check for spelling or punctuation mistakes.
- Have a friend or family member check your letter for advice and corrections.
Don't...
- Make the cover letter run longer than one page.
- Use a long word when a short one will do. For example, use "try" rather than "endeavour."
- Clutter the letter with too many facts or those that are not relevant to the job. Employers are not interested in your life story.
- Use coloured paper or coloured type.
- Include clip art, photos or or other graphics.
Exceptions: For certain types of work, industries or organizations, a more creative approach is required. Follow the standards appropriate to your specific situation. |
