2021 Career Services Guide

How to Write a Cover Letter
An effective cover letter allows you to formally introduce yourself, express enthusiasm in the position,
and highlight key points to pique the reader’s interest.
After thoroughly researching an organization, use the suggestions below in drafting your cover letter,
and then have someone proofread it for content and grammar. Save a copy for yourself. Follow up
with every letter submitted, if acceptable to the organization. Always include a cover letter with your
resume, even if the job posting doesn’t direct you to do so. The cover letter is your first opportunity to
tell the employer why you’re interested in joining their team specifically, what’s compelling about their
mission, vision, projects, etc.
LOOK SHARP
Use a professional business letter format with
the same header and font as your resume.
Tell a story that showcases your passion
and skill set. Don’t simply repeat your resume.
Carefully check spelling, grammar, and
typing.
Enlist others to help proofread.
Family, friends, faculty, and CP&R staff.
Combine your letter and resume into
a single PDF when submitting them
electronically.
Use a file name that makes sense to the
employer, e.g. Rhonda Johnson Internship
Application.
Bert Rivera
Employer and Job Developer Specialist,
California State University, Long Beach.
Former City Year Recruitment Director
In my years as a professional (four as a recruiter)
I’ve seen a number of cover letters. These are my
top two tips for writing a solid one:
Do your research - Take time to really understand
the role and company before writing it. What are
they looking for? What’s needed to be successful?
Research yourself as well. What are your relevant
skills and experiences for the role? Make a clear
connection for why you have what they need.
Create a tailored cover letter for each position you
apply to - Don’t use a generic letter; that’s a quick
way to get it tossed. Use your research to share
your specific skills connect the dots for them so
they’ll be eager to bring you in to learn more.
Demonstrate enthusiasm – Make sure the
organization knows you are excited about what
they do and the prospect of joining their team.
40 / RESUMES AND COVER LETTERS