job search related correspondence - Syracuse University College of ...

I. Writing an Effective Cover LetterThe objective of a cover letter is to persuade the reader i.e., the employer, to interview you.While some employers may disregard cover letters, others view them as a good indication ofyour writing skills and personality. It should tell the reader why you are writing, why you areinterested in the position you are applying for and why you would be a good candidate for theposition. This is an opportunity for you to “sell” yourself to a prospective employer. Do notsimply reiterate your resume, rather, expand on the facts that make you a good choice for theposition and that will set you apart from other candidates.An effective cover letter is personalized! Employers look to see if you are applying to them for aspecific reason, not just because you are doing a “mass mailing.” If your cover letter can be sentto any employer, from a district attorney’s office to a private firm with no changes, then it isprobably too vague to be effective. Generally speaking, a cover letter should be short. In manycases, three paragraphs will be sufficient. Sometimes, though, two middle paragraphs workbetter. Decide what works best on a case-by-case basis, by looking at the flow and content of theletter.A few sample cover letters appear in the pages that follow. Use them only as a guide; do notcopy them word for word. The Office of Career Services also has many books available withhundreds of cover letters and other types of job search letters. You may view them in our officeduring office hours, or borrow select books overnight. If you are new to cover letter writing, orif you are experiencing writer’s block, reviewing other people’s model letters can really help.Similar books are also available at the public library and elsewhere. See the Bibliography ofResources & Other Good Resources Chapter.39