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Cover Letters

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To write a cover letter or not? Where should you begin? Who are you writing it to anyway? Is there a standard template? Are these all questions you’re trying to figure out? Look no further to get your confusing cover letter questions answered here!

Need more? Be sure to stop by the Career Hub (SPEA Suite 200) any time Monday – Friday, 11am – 3pm for guidance. No appointment needed!

Getting Started

When completing any type of application, you may be asked to submit a cover letter along with your resume. A cover letter is a concise (no longer than 1 page) narrative that communicates your interest in an opportunity, along with your top skills and experiences that relate to your ability to do the job you’re pursuing.

O’Neill Cover Letter Template

The O’Neill Cover Letter Template will help guide you in providing the employer with the most relevant and valuable information so that they can further confirm your fit for the position they are seeking to fill.

3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out

3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out will give you tips on how to capture the attention of the recruiter(s) and hiring manager(s). The best way to capture their attention is through a compelling cover letter.

Cover Letter Samples by Job Title

Cover Letter Samples can help you get started on your unique document. Browse cover letters by job title for inspiration.

Edit Your Cover Letter

Your writing skills could play a huge role in a recruiter’s decision to move you forward to an interview. It is important for your cover letter to be free of all grammatical errors.

Grammarly will help you generate a clear and compelling cover letter while maintaining your unique voice.

Hemingway App

Hemingway App makes your cover letter writing bold and clear.

Other Resources

Below are other helpful articles to assist you in successful cover letter writing.

Cover Letter Tips for Recent Graduates

Cover Letter Tips for Recent Graduates gives you five top tips to craft an impressive cover letter as a recent grad.

5 Common Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Your First Job

5 Common Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Your First Job will help to significantly improve your chances of getting hired. Including a cover letter in all of your job applications shows a level of professionalism that employers are looking for.

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Resume and Cover Letters

In your first year of college, you’ll begin crafting a resume, refining and updating it as you actively participate in various experiences and acquire new skills. This process of refining not only reflects your academic journey but also underscores the importance of maintaining a professional approach throughout your college career, especially when it comes to the development and presentation of your resume.

Your resume and cover letter work together as essential documents, strategically showcasing your identity and accomplishments. This synergy becomes even more critical in a college setting, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a high level of professionalism, particularly when crafting and presenting resumes. These documents serve as powerful tools to effectively communicate your qualifications and experiences to potential employers.

Your resume is your personal marketing tool, advertising what you can do for a prospective employer. It summarizes the unique skills and experiences that set you apart from your competitors. The goal of a resume is to get the reader interested in you as a candidate. Remember to customize your resume for each job application, emphasizing the most relevant qualifications and experiences for the specific position.

Your cover letter showcases not only your personality, purpose, knowledge, and writing capabilities but also your professionalism. Serving as a complement to your resume, it provides a valuable opportunity to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the specific needs of a prospective employer.

A few things to remember:

• A resume is a piece of a person on paper. One person could be proud of their resume because it best represents them while another person may not care, both ways are perfectly fine. It is our job to make sure each person feels represented by their resumes.
• There is no perfect resume. Typically, we use chronological resumes, however there are multiple types: chronological, functional, combination, or targeted resume. Each resume is a little different in size, color, formatting, etc. based on the person that creates or edits it. Just ensure the major components are there: Name, contact information, education, and experiences.
• Nearly any experience is a professional experience, we just have to find the words to explain them.

The following are tips for constructing a powerful and professional resume. Use this sheet and the example on the back as a guide while collaborating with your career coach to create a resume that is perfect for you and your job.

PERSONAL BRAND

The top of your document should list your contact information, including your name, address, email, phone number, and LinkedIn domain link.

The formatting you use for this section creates a look you will use throughout your application materials (cover letter, references, etc.). Consider your use of font, font size, color, and spacing to create a professional look. Make sure your name is the most visually prominent piece of the whole document.

In this section, list all relevant education in reverse-chronological order. For each relevant college, university, or certificate program you have completed:

Write the name of the institution, the name of the degree/certificate/diploma, the location, and the date of completion.

Consider including the following if they are relevant to the position for which you are applying or if they have been requested by the employer: GPA (if ≥ 3.5), awards or recognitions, scholarships, student organizations, leadership positions, relevant coursework.

In this section, list all relevant experience in reverse-chronological order. For each a job position, internship, volunteer position, military service, or leadership experience:

Write the name of the organization, the position title, dates of employment/service, and location.

Construct 3-5 concise bullet points which describe the most valuable and relevant skills you gained and demonstrated in this position.

Start each bullet with a strong action verb.

Highlight skills, not responsibilities.

Be quantifiable whenever possible (e.g. generated 15% sales increase).

Use the employers own language to show that you fit what they are looking for.

REVIEWING YOUR RESUME

Employers prefer resumes to be ONE FULL PAGE or never more than TWO FULL PAGES. Arrange the text size and formatting so your text fills the page(s).

Carefully proof-read your document and have a friend or career coach review it for grammar and formatting.

Do not use jargon or informal vocabulary.

Your resume should change depending on what position you are applying for. Be sure your resume is tailored to the relevant position.

Are you fluent, proficient, or conversational in a second language? If so, ask your career coach how you can best highlight this skill in your resume.

Personal statements (a.k.a. objectives or summary statements) are generally obsolete. Include one only if you have a clear career goal that is very relevant to the position for which you are applying.

Many resume templates include a “skills” section. Only include this section if you are otherwise unable to fill one full page or if you have particularly relevant skills that you have not displayed elsewhere.

Project Coordinator

Assess patients for participation in, and coordinate the Pulmonary Rehab program

Monitor and supervise physical conditioning keeping physician informed of patient progress

Provide respiratory-related skills training and coordinate the skill training provided by Pharmacy, Dietetics, and Chaplaincy departments.

Information Specialist

Developed and implemented cross-training for administrative duties to mitigate risk and ensure success

Yielded membership inquiries, comments, and concerns in a high volume, fast-paced call center

Processed data including new membership applications, changes to member information, and dues payments

Advise the new co-presidents on how to structure and organize events, lead an executive board, and discuss ideas on how to strengthen the chapter

Lead and recruit peers by offering challenges and support to event volunteers as they complete tasks

Created new member initiative increasing member success 50% from previous year

Facilitated events held by the School of Liberal Arts. Represented the school’s values by encouraging and teaching new and current IUPUI students the benefits of a liberal arts education

Medical Response Team

Provide first aid in medical emergencies and non-emergencies in and round Indianapolis

Initiated first responder program increasing patient numbers 35% as compared to previous year

Increase organization’s recognition with outreach and communication

Translate the organization’s services for the Spanish community

The following are tips for writing a powerful and professional cover letter. Use this sheet and the example letter on the back as a guide while collaborating with your career coach on how to create a cover letter that is perfect for the position you are pursuing.

As with a resume, your cover letter will be headed by your personal brand which contains your basic contact information, including your name, address, email, phone number, and LinkedIn URL. Mirror or copy the personal brand from your resume to create a clean and unified professional look.

Directly under your header include the date.

Address your letter to the person who will be reviewing your application. If this information is not accessible, consider calling the company to find it. If possible, include their name, job title, organization/company name, and company address.

PARAGRAPH 1: INTRODUCTION

The focus of this paragraph is introducing yourself and demonstrating your knowledge of the company/organization.

Briefly introduce yourself.

Show that you have done your research. Connect with their company goals, mission, or values. Tell them why you are excited about or impressed by their organization or this position.

If you have a connection with the organization, do not be afraid to name-drop.

PARAGRAPH 2: YOUR SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

The focus of this paragraph is the skills that you bring to the position.

Highlight 2-3 skills that you would bring to their team.

Use their language and show that you know what they value. Be sharp and to the point.

Do the work of connecting your skills to their team and their organization. Show them that you fit.

PARAGRAPH 3: CLOSING

Tell them what you would like to happen next (e.g. an interview or opportunity to talk about the position further).

Provide information about how you can best be reached.

Thank them for their time and consideration. Close with a salutation and signature.

REVIEWING YOUR COVER LETTER

Even if the application does not require a cover letter, consider submitting one anyway (unless it specifically says not to). This extra effort shows the employer your sincere interest and could put you a step ahead of your competitors.

Check your grammar and make sure that you’ve tailored your letter to the appropriate position.

Dear Mr. Hiring:

I first heard about Indianapolis Children’s Home as I was preparing for the Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis Annual Career Fair. As I began to research your program, I was immediately interested in your goal of providing service to children in great need here in Indiana. In conversation with Mr. George Recruiter at the Career Fair, I realized even more clearly how you provide practical services while focusing on fostering positive relationships with your youth and their families. This spring I will be graduating from IUPUI with a Bachelor of Science in Education and I am interested in working on your team as an Activities Coordinator after graduation. Throughout college I have been involved in Indiana Urban Outreach and improved the lives of over 950 members of our community here in Indianapolis. This opportunity has granted me experiences building relationships with people from a variety of demographics. Because of this experience coupled with my education, I am confident that I have the ability to identify the needs of and foster positive relationships with your children and their families. In addition, I have two years of experience as a lead teacher for an after-school program at a local grade school, which has offered me the ability to plan and lead educational activities and has effectively prepared me to lead in the role of an Activities Coordinator. I look forward to meeting with you to further discuss what I can bring to your team as an Activities Coordinator for the Indianapolis Children’s Home. Please feel free to contact me by phone or email. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, SIGNATURE Your Name

Resume Reviews

Need more help with your resume or cover letter?

The Office of Career Development is conducting weekly resume reviews every Wednesday from 2 pm to 4 pm in Cavanaugh Hall, Room 243.

Can’t make it in person? No problem! To have your r esume reviewed via email , students can send their resume to libacdo@iupui.edu. Our team will review it and provide feedback within 3-5 business days. Please ensure to monitor your IU email address, as that is where our staff will send the reviewed document(s).

Ask questions or schedule an appointment by visiting our office in Cavanaugh Hall, Room 243, calling 317- 278-1224, or use our online Student Appointment Scheduler (SAS) .

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Cover Letter

Write a cover letter.

Your cover letter should concisely explain to the employer how the qualifications listed in your resume make you the best person for the job.

There is no one perfect cover letter. The examples of cover letters included on this site should be used only as guides.

Keep the following in mind as you draft (and re-draft) your cover letters:

Address the letter to a real person

You must find the name of the person to whom you should write. Never use “Dear Hiring Partner,” or “Dear Sir or Madam.” Only a letter addressed to “Dear Mr. Smith” will deserve to be read by Mr. Smith.

The first sentence must grab the reader’s attention

"I am currently a second year student at Indiana Law” does not compel the reader to continue. Compare it to the following:

"Prof. Fischman recommended that I contact you because of your expertise in hazardous waste disposal litigation."

"I read about your firm’s representation of Waste Management, Inc. in the January issue of   The American Lawyer . I was impressed by your creative approach to dispute resolution."

Identify yourself, briefly

Your resume will provide a more complete, factual summary of your qualifications, but briefly introduce yourself to the reader:

"I will be graduating from the Indiana University Maurer School of Law in May 2017, and I want to use my chemical engineering background and my law degree to practice environmental law in a firm like yours."

"I will be graduating from the Indiana University Maurer School of Law in May 2017. I earned a B.S. in chemical  engineering, and am registered as a United States Patent Agent. During my tenure as a research assistant in the Chemistry Department at IU, I developed an interest in intellectual property matters, and I want to use my strong technical background and my law degree to practice patent and trademark law."

Identify your purpose

Make it clear whether you are applying for a position that has been advertised or if you’re using the cover letter to try to set up an informational interview. Don’t leave the reader confused as to your purpose in contacting him or her:

"The representation of major industrial companies such as (list some of firm’s clients) must require  engineering as well as legal expertise. As a registered engineer-in-training, I can speak the language and share the concerns of your clients. I would like to be considered for a position as an associate with your firm upon my graduation next May."

Propose the next step

Having introduced yourself and your purpose, tell the reader what will happen next to further the acquaintance:

"I am excited about pursuing a career in environmental law. I hope that my experience in this area and my engineering background will interest your firm. I will call you next week to discuss my qualifications and your firm’s needs."

Follow up by telephone

Approximately a week after you send your resume, call to set up an appointment, a convenient time for a telephone  interview, or to confirm your plans to visit when you are in town. Do not presume that the reader will contact you. Good lawyers are busy, and their intentions to call you may get buried under piles of fee-generating paperwork.

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Cover letters are more common in postdoctoral and job applications than in traditional grants for academic research and writing, but occasionally required by some funding agencies. These letters must be formal, meaning that it behooves you to pay attention to form: print on letterhead (make your own if you cannot use your department’s), and be sure include the date, funding agency address, date, a formal salutation, and a formal closing. Adding a scanned photo of your handwritten signature to the closing of the email is also a nice touch.

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Perfect your resume and cover letter

Having a dynamic resume and cover letter is vital to the employment process. Not only are they the first impression you provide to potential employers, they can help you prepare for interviews and communicate to the employer how your skills, accomplishments, and abilities fit their position.

The Career Services Center at Indiana University Kokomo is here to help you put your best foot forward when searching for employment, starting with a well-written cover letter and resume.

Online Resume Critique

Submit your resume for review by the IU Kokomo Career Center.

Submit Here

How to write a ‘YES’ resume

The format of resumes vary from person to person based on education, experience, and where you are in your professional career. There’s no specific model for a resume, but there are some guidelines worth following:

• Start with a first draft and expect to do several revisions.
• Try to keep your resume 1-2 pages in length.
• Use clear fonts and keep your design crisp, well-balanced, and pleasing to the eye.
• Use your complete, legal name – no nicknames – and include your city and state, and phone number.
• Do tailor your resume to each position you apply for. Different portions of your experience will appeal to different employers.
• Use brief phrases, not full sentences. Be clear and specific.
• Use the correct tense. For past jobs: “developed,” “organized,” “initiated.” For a current job: “initiate,” “lead,” “maintain.”
• List community activities and awards if they enhance your work experiences (demonstrating leadership, organization, etc.).
• Proofread your final product for correct spelling and punctuation, as well as any grammatical and typographical mistakes.
• Print your resume on high-quality paper (water bond, cotton, etc. in white or eggshell; sized 8.5 x 11 inches).

Steps to avoid in resume writing include:

• Do not use abbreviations – and only use professional and technical language when relevant.
• Do not use odd-sized, bordered, or colored paper.
• Do not list personal or professional references in your resume; include those on a second document, or provide them when asked.
• Do not use non-standard fonts or pictures.
• Do not repeat words and phrases; instead, highlight how those accomplishments cover multiple related areas.
• Do not italicize.
• Do not list your GPA or any collegiate honors unless you are a recent graduate and your rank is above a 3.0/4.0.
• Do not use excessive detail when discussing job experience. Keep your entries short.

Cover Letters

Cover letters are an additional, yet important, component of a resume. It is important to customize each cover letter to each company and/or position that you apply for.

• Address your letter to the person listed on the position advertisement, or a person that you know has the authority to hire.
• Format your cover letter like a letter.
• State which position you are applying for, and where you heard about the opening.
• Show enthusiasm in your writing, and briefly explain why you are the best fit for the job.
• Explain why you want to work for this company/organization, and why your skills, experience, and qualifications directly relate to the position.
• Briefly highlight the examples you believe will set you apart from other candidates.

Resume Samples

Have you ever written a resume or cover letter before? Don’t know how to start? Our sample resumes can provide you with the inspiration you need to finish your next job application.

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IU Robert H. McKinney School of Law

• Current Students
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Your cover letter is as important as your resume because employers will read it first! It must pique a potential employer’s interest. Be positive, brief, precise, and businesslike.  

There is no such thing as the perfect cover letter.You must write unique letters for each job application. It should highlight your qualifications as they relate to each employer’s specific requirements. When writing your cover letter, keep in mind:

• Keep it short. One page only.
• Write to a specific person. Use the person's name and title. Never use "To Whom It May Concern," "Dear Hiring Partner," or "Dear Sir or Madam."
• State the position you’re applying for and how you learned about it, why you’re applying, your qualifications, and how you can contribute to the organization.
• Make reference to your resume. Indicate that it is attached or enclosed.
• State what action you want (an interview), and indicate what follow-up action you will take.
• Use good quality bond white or off-white paper for both the resume and cover letter.
• Check and recheck for accurate spelling and grammar. Do not rely on spell-check. 

 View our suggested outline of a cover letter , sample cover letter or sample clerkship letter below. For additional help, contact us .

Outline of a Cover Letter:

Your Address  City, State, Zip Code Date  Title and Name of Contact Person  Employer Name  Address  City, State, Zip Code Dear Mr./Ms. last name of contact person: First Paragraph:  Tell why you are writing; name the position for which you are applying, and tell how you heard of this opening. State why you are interested in working for this employer. If you have lived in the area or know it well, mention this. Specify your interests in the type of work the firm does. Describe what is particularly appealing to you about the employer. Second Paragraph:  If you have had experience, courses, publications, or clinic experience, be sure to point out what particular achievements you have accomplished in the employer's field or type of work. Indicate why you are qualified for the job. Emphasize pertinent items on your resume; add information that is not specifically mentioned on your resume. Include information that is pertinent to the job for which you are applying. Third Paragraph:  Have an appropriate closing to pave the way for an interview. Indicate your willingness to interview personally by stating when you will be in the area or by offering to make yourself available at the employer's convenience. You may wish to indicate that you will call the employer's office within a specific week to try and schedule an interview. Thank the employer for his/her consideration. Sincerely,  (leave 4 blank lines for signature) Your Name (typed) Enclosure

Sample Cover Letter:

123 Main Street Indianapolis, IN 46202  December 1, 2016 Ms. Marilyn C. Employer  Hammer, Wrench & Saw 150 Market Street Indianapolis, IN 46204  Dear Ms. Employer: Please consider the enclosed copy of my resume an application for the position of law clerk with your firm. I learned from the Career Services Office that you plan to hire a first-year law student next summer. I was pleased to discover that your firm practices in the area of construction law because that area is of particular interest to me. As the assistant office manager for Longfellow Construction Company, I was involved with some construction law issues. I find this practice area fascinating and would like to learn more about it, as well as the other practice areas of your firm. I enjoy researching and writing, as evidenced by my involvement with the school newspaper. I feel this trait would be an asset to your firm. I am extremely interested in the summer law clerk position with your firm and would appreciate the opportunity to further discuss this matter during an interview. I can interview at your convenience. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely,  Fredrick Firstyear

Summer Clerkship Cover Letter:

123 Main Street  Williamsburg, VA 23186 December 1, 2016 Mr. John A. Employer  Red, Orange & Yellow  456 Market Street  Indianapolis, IN 46204 Dear Mr. Employer: Please consider the enclosed copy of my resume an application for the position of law clerk with your firm. I learned from Professional Development that you plan to hire a first-year law student next summer. I was pleased to discover that your firm practices in the area of municipal law because that area is of particular interest to me. As an intern for the city of Indianapolis during college, I helped create and evaluate the citywide facility needs assessment survey. Participating in this survey gave me a greater understanding of the Indianapolis community even though I have lived in the city all my life. I am very interested in this position and would appreciate the opportunity to further discuss this matter during an interview. I will be in Indianapolis over the mid-winter break, December 15 through January 9, and can interview at your convenience. I look forward to hearing from you in the near future. Sincerely,  Philip B. Firstyear

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Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law

Phone : 317-274-8523

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I am excited to submit my application for the merchandise analyst internship at Suits “R” Us. I eagerly applied after discovering the position on my university's job portal, immediately recognizing a listing for one of the best retail providers in Chicago. As an apparel merchandising major at Indiana University, I would like to apply my knowledge of the retail industry and hands-on experiences to this internship. I developed analytical skills and a passion for teamwork in my coursework and work experience, and feel like I would be a great fit for your company.

In my coursework, I investigated marketplace factors such as trends, climates, and locations through research and benchmarking. I collaborated on a team to present case studies involving merchandise planning and assortment decisions. During these experiences, I developed skills in collaboration and research, and I hope to continue strengthening these skills through this internship. My current work as an assessment assistant at the IU East Career Services Office provides many opportunities to sharpen my data analysis skills. I design surveys, analyze quantitative and qualitative data, and write reports. By using technology to collect and analyze data, I am prepared to look for trends and patterns to make informed decisions regarding assortment. Additionally, working at the Career Services Office inspired me to specifically begin my career in a retail organization providing practically priced, professional clothing, like Suits “R” Us. Finding modern professional attire that is made with quality and fits well can make all the difference in a student’s self-image.

I am confident that my classwork and work experience have prepared me to take the next step in my professional development. I am looking forward to learning more about the position. If you have any questions, please contact me at 555-555-5555 or [email protected]. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Herman B Wells

A cover letter allows you to express your interest and enthusiam in the position and the organization. It also:

• highlights skills or experiences that are especially relevant to the position
• demonstrates your ability to communicate in writing
• strengthens your chances of securing an interview by showing the employer your personality and potential

Helpful Tips

• Do not just restate your resume, elaborate on relevant skills and experiences
• Save as a PDF
• Include your name in the document title (Lastname_Firstname.PDF)
• Use block formatting: left-aligned text with double spaces between sections. This is the default format in Microsoft Word
• You may use the header from your resume
• Include a handwritten (or electronically scanned) signature in your closing

I am excited to submit my application for the merchandise analyst internship at Suits “R” Us. I eagerly applied after discovering the position on my university's job portal, immediately recognizing a listing for one of the best retail providers in Chicago. As an apparel merchandising major at Indiana University, I would like to apply my knowledge of the retail industry and hands-on experiences to this internship. I developed analytical skills and a passion for teamwork in my coursework and work experience, and feel like I would be a great fit for your company.

In my coursework, I investigated marketplace factors such as trends, climates, and locations through research and benchmarking. I collaborated on a team to present case studies involving merchandise planning and assortment decisions. During these experiences, I developed skills in collaboration and research, and I hope to continue strengthening these skills through this internship. My current work as an assessment assistant at the Indiana University Career Development Center provides many opportunities to sharpen my data analysis skills. I design surveys, analyze quantitative and qualitative data, and write reports. By using technology to collect and analyze data, I am prepared to look for trends and patterns to make informed decisions regarding assortment. Additionally, working at the Career Development Center inspired me to specifically begin my career in a retail organization providing practically priced, professional clothing, like Suits “R” Us. Finding modern professional attire that is made with quality and fits well can make all the difference in a student’s self-image.

I am confident that my classwork and work experience have prepared me to take the next step in my professional development. I am looking forward to learning more about the position. If you have any questions, please contact me at 555-555-5555 or [email protected]. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Herman B Wells

A cover letter allows you to express your interest and enthusiam in the position and the organization. It also:

• highlights skills or experiences that are especially relevant to the position
• demonstrates your ability to communicate in writing
• strengthens your chances of securing an interview by showing the employer your personality and potential

Helpful Tips

• Do not just restate your resume, elaborate on relevant skills and experiences
• Save as a PDF
• Include your name in the document title (Lastname_Firstname.PDF)
• Use block formatting: left-aligned text with double spaces between sections. This is the default format in Microsoft Word
• You may use the header from your resume
• Include a handwritten (or electronically scanned) signature in your closing

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Professional Communication: Your Letters & Email Messages

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Demonstration of strong communication skills is essential in the job search. Your letters and email messages create the first impression of your skills and knowledge as a future business professional. Being able to effectively articulate that you understand the connection between your skills and an employer’s requirements will make your messages stand out. Targeted, clear communication is the key to getting responses from employers and helping to get invited for an interview.

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