A cover letter is just as important as your resume.  It is an opportunity to personalize your resume and sell your skills. Include these important sections in your cover letter:

• Heading and greeting
  Include the date, your name and your contact information. Address the letter to a specific name and/or title whenever possible.
• Opening and introduction
  Explain who you are and your reason for writing, including how you found out about the position.
• Body
  Sell yourself. Reveal why you are a perfect and unique match for the position. Explain why you have chosen the employer.
• Assertive closing
  Politely take initiative toward further action and next contact.

Don't use a generic, form-like cover letter. Use these tips to write a fresh and informative cover letter:

Be confident, positive, and focused

• Target your letter to the audience and industry.
• Be positive about your current employment situation and professional future.
• Emphasize what you can offer the employer.
• Express your focused career goals.
• Don't use empty or unproven claims about your abilities.

Be concise, accurate, and polite

• Use short sentences.
• Keep the letter to one page.
• Proofread your letter thoroughly.
• Thank the reader for his or her time.
• Sign your cover letter ” blue ink is best to show the letter is an original.

View a cover letter template for layout and format suggestions.