Formatting Basics
Appearance
- Be concise - 1 page maximum length
- Use paragraph form
- Do not indent paragraphs
- Single space your work
Language
- Tailor your cover letter to the job description by demonstrating that you meet or exceed the requirements of the job
- Use industry-specific wording
- Show that you have researched the company and position
- Ensure you have addressed it to the appropriate contact
- Do not use abbreviations or prepositions
- Ensure no spelling or grammar errors
- Start sentences with variety (avoid starting each sentence with ‘I’)
- Do not repeat sentences from your resume
- Proofread your document
Standard Cover Letter Format
Your Address
City, Province Postal Code
Date
Contact Name, Contact Job Title (if provided)
Company Name
Company Address
City, Province Postal Code
Re: Job Title (Ad #)
Dear (Mr., Ms., Mrs., Dr., Hiring Committee, etc.)
Opening Paragraph (1 paragraph)
- Begin with an interesting first sentence that recognizes your skills, experience, and/or passion for the job
- Identify the job title and company name
- Tell how you heard of the position
- If you have a contact within the company or have been recommended for the job, mention the person here
- Provide 1-2 sentences about why you are a good fit for the job
Body Paragraph/s (1-2 paragraphs)
- Highlight most marketable skills, experiences, and attributes, beginning with those that are most important/relevant and working your way down to those that are least
- Use examples to support skills
- Cater to employer’s needs based on the job description
- Include pertinent education, training, and experience (work, volunteer, clubs, etc.) and skills gained from them
- Typically provide full job/program titles and company/school names
Closing Paragraph (1 paragraph)
- Begin with summary statement as to why you are a good fit or have a passion for the job
- Assertively request to meet with them for an interview
- Provide follow-up information, including your phone and email address
- Thank the reader for their consideration
Sincerely,
Your signature if mailing a copy (leave 2 blank lines for this)
Your Name (typed)