candidate with a multi-page CV, don't try to stuff it all into a small envelope.ĭon't send a resume without a cover letter.ĭon't make the reader guess what you are seeking. By all means, if you're sending other things the employer requested (transcripts, application forms, etc.) and/or you're a Ph.D. You may choose either serif font such as Cambria or Times New Roman, or a sans serif font such as Calibri or Arial.Ī one-page cover letter and a one-page resume (appropriate for 98.6% of undergraduates) can be folded, but it's a nice touch to use a larger flat envelope so your letter and resume don't have to be folded. Produce laser quality print choose a proportionally spaced font, rather than an evenly spaced font. Nice paper won't overcome a weak introduction like, 'hi, what does your company do?' If you're going to meet employers at a career fair, they would rather see that you have done your research about the organization in advance, and that you can give a succient introduction of yourself and why the organization interests you. Nice paper isn't going to get you an interview if your content is weak or your document has typos.

It's a nice touch, if you've done everything else right. Some papers with flecks make hazy copies. Choose paper which produces clean photocopies. Use 8.5 by 11 inch, good quality paper preferably the same paper as used for your resume. Of course you won't have a handwritten signature on email, but don't forget this on hard copy.Hard copy can have a subject line too, but it's on the letter (after recipient's address block and before 'Dear.,' and it's seen after the letter is opened.Email subject lines can make or break whether your email is opened and read. Email requires a subject line logical to the recipient.Your signature block (address, etc.) goes below your name in email, while it goes at the top of the page on hard copy.Obviously if an employer specifically asks you to hand-deliver a cover letter with your resume, then follow the instructions the employer has given you. You could send a letter/email afterward expressing your thanks for the person's time in speaking with you (and following any other instructions that were given). Generally, no cover letter is used in person, because you are (or should be!) exhibiting your in-person communication skills. What if I'm handing my resume to someone in person, as at a career fair? Your friend might pass on your letter or email to her contact who can then see your writing style, focus, and professionalism. Include a brief cover letter thanking your friend, relative or employer for her kindness and assistance in passing your resume along, and remind her of your goal (job, internship, co-op, etc.) and career interest. A resume alone is insufficient.īut what if I'm sending my resume to my friend/relative/employer who knows me and is going to pass it on to someone else? A cover letter explains why you're sending your resume. It's perceived as lazy and/or ill-informed not to (or to send one that looks like it could have been 'shot-gunned' to anyone, or worse, addressed to the wrong person or office).Ī resume is a summary of your background and qualifications. It's just good manners and appropriate business etiquette to include a cover letter with your resume. After 'Encl.,' list any documents that you are including with your letter, such as a résumé.What's your goal in sending your resume? Isn't it to get into the 'yes' pile (and not the 'no' or 'maybe' piles) when the employer is sorting resumes to decide whom to interview? A well-written cover letter is an important tool for getting into the 'yes' pile.Include your personal website address, if you have one.Write your name and contact information (address, telephone number and email address) under your signature.End your letter with a standard formal closing like 'Yours truly.'.Clearly state that you are available for an interview.Thank the person for having taken the time to read your application.This shows the employer that you’re motivated and serious. Explain how your work experience can help you meet the job offer requirements.Try to tailor your letter to the company and job in question.The idea is to show how your qualifications would be an asset for the employer. Explain how your education or training, work experience, skills and work ethic meet the job requirements.Explain briefly why you think you are the right person for the job.Mention how you heard about the job (an ad in a newspaper or other publication, a posting on the Online Placement website, personal contacts, etc.).Indicate the name, title and address of the person to whom your letter is addressed.Indicate the date on which you send your letter.Structure the various sections of your letter correctly.

Cover letter template