Writing Cover Letters

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• Explains why you are interested in the role and how you align with the company’s needs.
• Highlights key experiences and skills that make you a strong candidate.
• Provides a chance to tell a story or expand on points that might not be clear from your resume.
• Shows employers that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the opportunity.
• Explains your goals for your career and how this opportunity aligns with those goals

• Include a cover letter when a company requests one, even if they say it is “optional”.
• When applying for competitive roles where a strong letter can make you stand out.
• If you want to explain career changes, gaps in experience, or unique qualifications.

Ideally, whatever header you choose for your Resume should be reused for your Cover Letter so they look like a consistent pair of documents. Your header includes your contact information, the date, and the employer’s details.

Example:

Jane Doe
janedoe@email.com | (123) 456-7890 | linkedin.com/in/janedoe | Las Vegas, NV

Next, you will put the date as well as the contact information for the company you’re applying to. If you know the name of the hiring manager or who it is addressed to, you can include that.

Example:

Hiring Manager
BioTech Solutions Inc.
1234 Research Drive
Las Vegas, NV 89102

The greeting of a cover letter sets a professional tone and demonstrates attention to detail. Whenever possible, address the letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or department head. This personal touch shows initiative and effort in researching the company. If the hiring manager’s name is unavailable, use a general but professional greeting such as:

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Department] Team, (e.g., Dear Marketing Team, if applying for a marketing role)
• Dear [Company Name] Recruitment Team,
• Dear [Job Title] Hiring Committee, (e.g., Dear Customer Success Hiring Committee)
• To the hiring manager,
• Attention: Hiring Manager
• Hiring Manager,
• [Department] Team, (e.g., Marketing Team, Accounting Department)
• [Company Name] Recruitment Team,
• To the [Job Title] Hiring Committee,

Avoid overly generic greetings like “To Whom It May Concern,” as they can feel impersonal. If a job listing provides specific instructions on how to address the letter, always follow those guidelines.

Start your cover letter with a clear and engaging opening. Mention the specific position you’re applying for and briefly explain why you’re interested. A strong introduction conveys enthusiasm and shows how you connect with the company’s mission or values.

Example 1:

I am excited to apply for the Biology Internship at BioTech Solutions Inc. As a Biology student at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, I am eager to bring my academic knowledge and laboratory experience to a company dedicated to advancing medical research and environmental sustainability. The opportunity to contribute to your innovative team aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

Example 2:

I am applying for the Biology Internship at BioTech Solutions Inc. With my background in biology and laboratory research, I am eager to contribute to your company’s mission of advancing medical and environmental solutions.

Your body paragraph(s) should highlight your most relevant experiences, skills, and accomplishments, directly connecting them to the job description. Use specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications and show how you can add value to the company.

Example 1:

As an Undergraduate Research Assistant at UNLV’s Department of Biology, I have developed hands-on experience with laboratory techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and data analysis. I have assisted with DNA extractions for genetic research and analyzed microbial community data for environmental studies. Additionally, during my internship at the Nevada Science Center, I collaborated with scientists on educational outreach initiatives, honing my ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences. My combination of technical expertise and teamwork skills would allow me to contribute effectively to BioTech Solutions.

If you have multiple relevant experiences or skills to showcase, consider using two body paragraphs, each with a distinct focus. For example, one paragraph can highlight your technical expertise or industry-specific experience, while the second can emphasize soft skills such as leadership, communication, or project management. This structure ensures a well-rounded presentation of your qualifications while keeping your cover letter engaging and easy to follow.

Example 2:

As an Undergraduate Research Assistant at UNLV’s Department of Biology, I have developed hands-on experience with essential laboratory techniques, including PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing. My work has involved analyzing genetic mutations and studying microbial communities in various environmental samples. Through this research, I have strengthened my ability to conduct precise laboratory procedures, interpret data, and collaborate with faculty and fellow researchers to draw meaningful conclusions. These experiences have deepened my analytical skills and attention to detail, which I am eager to apply in a professional setting.

Beyond my research experience, I have developed strong communication and project management skills through my internship at the Nevada Science Center. In this role, I assisted in developing educational programs to make complex scientific concepts accessible to students and the general public. I also worked with a team to organize community outreach events, reinforcing my ability to collaborate across disciplines and adapt messaging to different audiences. This combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skills makes me confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to BioTech Solutions and support the company’s mission of advancing medical research and environmental sustainability.

Your closing paragraph should leave a strong final impression by reaffirming your enthusiasm for the position and your eagerness to contribute to the company. Politely express your interest in discussing the opportunity further and thank the employer for their time and consideration.

Example:

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and passion for biological research to BioTech Solutions. I would welcome the chance to further discuss how my experience aligns with your team’s goals. Thank you for your time and consideration—I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your organization and would be happy to provide any additional information at your convenience.

The closing signature of your cover letter should be professional and courteous. Choose a sign-off that matches the tone of your letter and the industry you’re applying to. Common sign-offs include “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” and “Kind regards,” though there are other options depending on the level of formality you prefer. Always remember to leave space for your signature if you’re submitting a physical letter, or simply type your name for digital submissions.

Here are a few examples of closing signatures:

Examples:

• Sincerely,
• Best regards,
• Kind regards,
• Warm regards,
• Yours faithfully,

Choose a closing that feels appropriate for the position and company culture. “Sincerely” is generally safe and professional for most situations, while “Best regards” or “Kind regards” can convey a slightly warmer tone. Avoid overly casual sign-offs like “Cheers” unless you’re applying to a very informal or creative company.

Customizing cover letters for each job or internship is crucial for making a strong, personalized impression on potential employers. A generic cover letter is less likely to grab attention, while a customized one can highlight why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Here are some important strategies for tailoring your cover letter:

Use keywords for the field.
Carefully read the job description and incorporate specific terms and phrases that are used in the posting. This not only helps your application pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which often scan for specific keywords, but it also shows that you’ve paid attention to the job requirements and that you align well with the role. For example, if the job requires “project management experience” and you’ve managed projects in previous roles, be sure to use that term to describe your relevant experience.

Mention specifics about the company and what they’re working on.
Demonstrating that you’ve researched the company can set you apart from other applicants. Mention their mission, values, or recent projects to show you’re genuinely interested in the company, not just the job itself. This could include referencing a recent press release, initiative, or product that excites you. For instance, if you’re applying to a company that has a strong sustainability mission, you could mention how your values align with their environmental goals or how excited you are about contributing to their efforts in that area.

Highlight relevant experiences that will stand out for the employer.
Instead of simply restating your resume, use the cover letter as an opportunity to provide deeper insights into specific experiences that directly relate to the role you’re applying for. Focus on how your skills and achievements tie into the job description and how you can add value to the company. For example, if the position calls for someone with strong data analysis skills and you have relevant experience in that area, provide a brief example of a project you’ve worked on that demonstrates your proficiency and results achieved.

By taking the time to tailor each cover letter, you show employers that you’re not just looking for any job—you’re looking for this job, at this company, with a clear understanding of how you can contribute to their success. Customizing your cover letter demonstrates effort, attention to detail, and a genuine interest in the role, all of which can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview.

When expressing your enthusiasm, it’s crucial to show that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re specifically excited about this role and the company. Employers want to see genuine excitement and motivation to contribute to their success.

• Mention what excites you: Reference specific aspects of the company or role that appeal to you. For example, “I’m particularly excited about your company’s innovative approach to sustainable technology.”
• Show alignment: Tie your excitement to the company’s mission, values, or recent projects. For example, “I’ve been following your company’s growth in the tech sector, and I’m drawn to your commitment to environmental sustainability.”
• Connect personal passions or experiences: If your personal interests align with the company’s work, mention them. For example, “I’ve volunteered with environmental organizations, and the opportunity to contribute to your team’s green initiatives is something I’m deeply passionate about.”

This approach demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to research the company and are genuinely motivated to contribute to its mission and goals.

While enthusiasm for the role is important, demonstrating that you’re a strong fit for the position is equally crucial. Employers want to know that you have the right skills, experience, and mindset to contribute effectively to their team and help achieve their goals.

• Highlight relevant experiences and skills: Focus on specific qualifications from your background that align with the job requirements. For example, “With my experience in digital marketing and leading social media campaigns that boosted engagement by 30%, I’m confident in my ability to help grow your online presence.”
• Align with the company’s mission and values: Showcase how your career goals and values align with the company’s objectives. For example, “Your company’s commitment to community empowerment resonates with my passion for creating equitable educational opportunities.”
• Explain how you can contribute to company goals: Demonstrate how your skills will help the company move forward, whether it’s expanding into new markets or improving internal processes. For example, “As your company expands into new regions, my experience in market research and strategic planning will contribute to informed, successful market entries.”

By clearly articulating your skills, aligning with the company’s values, and explaining how you can contribute to their goals, you show that you’re not just passionate about the role but also highly qualified to help the company succeed.

Striking the right balance between professionalism and personality is essential when writing a cover letter. Employers appreciate a formal tone that reflects your qualifications while also giving them a glimpse of who you are as a person.

• Maintain a formal but engaging tone: Your cover letter should have a professional tone that reflects your respect for the company and the role. However, it’s important to keep the language engaging to avoid sounding too stiff or impersonal. For example, instead of saying “I am qualified for this position,” try something more dynamic like, “With my expertise in project management and passion for innovation, I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your team.”
• Let your personality shine through: Employers don’t just want to know about your qualifications—they also want to get a sense of your personality and how you might fit within the company’s culture. Feel free to incorporate personal touches that show what drives you. For instance, “I’m particularly drawn to your company’s commitment to sustainability, which mirrors my own passion for environmentally conscious solutions. I’ve spent the last two years volunteering with local environmental nonprofits, and I’m excited to bring that enthusiasm to your team.”
• Avoid cliches or false enthusiasm: It’s important to come across as authentic. If you aren’t genuinely excited about something, don’t pretend to be. Avoid overused phrases like “I’m the best fit for this role” or “I’m passionate about the job” unless you can back it up with real examples. Instead, focus on sharing what genuinely excites you about the opportunity, while staying grounded in the reality of the position and your qualifications.

By blending professionalism with a bit of your own personality, you’ll create a cover letter that is both polished and engaging. The key is to be authentic while conveying your enthusiasm for the role, making it clear that you’re not just another applicant—you’re someone who would thrive in their environment and contribute positively to their team.

While it’s tempting to repeat everything on your resume in your cover letter, this isn’t the best approach. Your resume already lists your qualifications, so the cover letter should be an opportunity to expand on key experiences, provide additional context, and explain why you’re an ideal fit for the role.

How to Avoid It:

• Focus on explaining why your experiences make you a great fit for the role.
• Discuss how your skills can specifically contribute to the company’s goals.
• Share additional insights or anecdotes that provide context beyond what’s in your resume.

Example of What to Avoid:
“I have a degree in Marketing and have worked as a Marketing Specialist at ABC Corp, where I handled campaigns.”

Improved Version:
“In my previous role as a Marketing Specialist at ABC Corp, I successfully led a campaign that increased engagement by 25% over three months, using data-driven strategies to fine-tune our approach. I’m confident that my ability to analyze and optimize campaigns would contribute significantly to XYZ Company’s goal of expanding brand reach.”

Each cover letter should be unique and tailored to the specific position you are applying for. Using a generic template can come off as lazy or impersonal, which may not impress potential employers. Hiring managers are looking for candidates who are genuinely interested in their company, and using a generic letter doesn’t demonstrate that enthusiasm.

How to Avoid It:

• Personalize your introduction by mentioning the company and position specifically.
• Highlight relevant skills or experiences that match the job description.
• Show that you’ve done research on the company by referencing its mission, values, or recent work.

Example of What to Avoid:
“I am applying for this position because I think it will be a great opportunity.”

Improved Version:
“I am excited to apply for the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company. Your innovative approach to sustainability in the tech industry aligns with my passion for creating impactful, eco-conscious marketing strategies.”

A cover letter should be concise, usually between three to four paragraphs. Keeping it too short might give the impression that you lack enough qualifications or motivation, while making it too long could overwhelm the reader or cause them to lose interest.

How to Avoid It:

• Keep your cover letter to ¾ of a page to one full page.
• Be clear and direct without being overly brief or detailed.
• Use short paragraphs and bullet points when appropriate for easy reading.

Too Short / Vague
“I am applying for the Marketing Internship. I am hardworking and would be a good fit. Please see my resume for more information.”

• Why it doesn’t work: It’s generic, lacks specifics, and doesn’t show enthusiasm or relevant skills.

Too Long / Wordy
“I am writing to express my sincere interest in the Marketing Internship position at ABC Company, which I discovered through your online job posting. My interest in marketing began during my freshman year when I took an Introduction to Business course, where I learned about the four Ps of marketing. Since then, I have immersed myself in multiple projects, including designing flyers for my student club, conducting surveys for a class assignment, and attending several professional development events that focused on digital branding strategies. In addition, I have taken a variety of coursework such as Marketing 101, Consumer Behavior, and Principles of Advertising, all of which I believe have prepared me for this opportunity. Furthermore, I have held leadership roles in several student organizations, such as Treasurer of the Business Club, Event Coordinator for the Student Council, and Member of the Campus Promotions Team, all of which have given me a diverse set of skills that I am eager to apply. I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining your team and believe my background makes me a strong candidate for this position.”

• Why it doesn’t work: Overwhelms the reader, repeats itself, and buries key points.

Just Right
“I am excited to apply for the Marketing Internship at ABC Company. My coursework in Consumer Behavior and hands-on experience creating social media campaigns for the Business Club have equipped me with both knowledge and practical skills in digital marketing. In this role, I am eager to contribute my creativity and organizational skills to support your team’s branding initiatives. I welcome the chance to bring my experiences to ABC Company and learn from your talented marketing professionals.”

Why it works: Clear, tailored, specific, and concise—hits the highlights without overloading the reader.

Typos and formatting errors are one of the easiest ways to detract from an otherwise strong cover letter. These issues may make you appear careless and unprofessional, leading the employer to question your attention to detail.

How to Avoid It:

• Proofread your cover letter multiple times or ask someone else to review it.
• Use a clean, professional format with consistent font style and size.
• Ensure your contact information is correct, and double-check your salutation and closing.

Example of What to Avoid:
“I am excied to apply for the Postion at ABC Corp. I can’t wait to help your team grow!”

Improved Version:
“I am excited to apply for the position of Marketing Manager at ABC Corp. I look forward to contributing to your team’s success by leveraging my experience in digital marketing.”