Cover Letters

Q: What is the best way to develop a cover letter, generalized or company-specific?

A: Always send a personalized, company-specific letter with each resumé. Employers can tell when they are being sent a standardized cover letter. They value personalization and company- and position-specific content. If you want the interview, aim to conduct the most targeted marketing campaign—which includes your cover letter and resumé—that you can.

Your cover letter is a crucial marketing tool for promoting your accomplishments and demonstrating your professionalism and communication style. You should always write and send a cover letter with your resumé (unless the position is listed in MiTRAC and does not require a cover letter). The cover letter gives you the opportunity to:

Convince the reader to read your resumé. If your cover letter is not exceptional, they may never read your resumé.
Personalize your qualifications and demonstrate to the reader how you (the applicant) can meet the company's needs.
Highlight your accomplishments and SELL yourself.
Create a positive first impression and stand out from the crowd.

If you have a job description for the position you are applying for, use the job d escription's vocabulary to match the words you use in your cover letter. Additionally, use the text as an organizing guide for your accomplishments. This will allow you to focus on WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR THEM.

A cover letter can be used as a "letter of inquiry" for the purpose of inquiring about potential job opportunities. This type of letter is sometimes referred to as a "cold call" cover letter. The more familiar type of cover letter, a "letter of application" is used for the purpose of replying to an advertised or posted position, such as a job listed on MiTRAC. It is helpful to refer to sample cover letters in writing these different types of letters, many of which are found in the resources listed below.