I hope you had a weekend full of love, chocolates and fun and now you’re ready to get back to work!
This month has been one of the busiest for the CDO with many applications due and so many people looking for summer internship/job opportunities. We try to help everybody with their research and give the best advices and assistance but still some of you might not have the time to stop by the CDO. This is why this week the blog will focus on something that’s been troubling the students a lot lately - the cover letter.
Here are some good ideas you should keep in mind when writing it:
Before you start you should learn about the organization, its need and its challenges by researching it on the Internet. Also take advantage of all the useful info that the advertisement tells you about the skills, knowledge and competencies that are essential to the employer for the particular position.
You should consider the cover letter to be an effective advertisement that highlights the qualities and strengths you already mentioned in your resume. It should capture the readers attention and invite him/her to focus on your resume. You need to envision yourself as the only and perfect “solution” the employer is looking for.
There are several key components that your cover letter should include:
-Your contact info
-Date (perfect format: month dd,yyyy)
-Employer’s name and inside address
-Salutation
-Opening paragraph where you explain who you are and why you’re writing (the more compelled the better). Mention any referrals.
-Main body where you state your unique skills and the reasons why you’re ideal for the position in question (usually 3-4 paragraphs). Refer to your enclosed resume.
-Closing paragraph where you tell the reader when and how you plan to follow up. Indicate your interest in meeting to discuss the position.
-Appropriate closing, your name and signature
-Enclosures
Finally, keep in mind that your cover letter should match your resume, it should be targeted to the right audience and most importantly - you should try to put yourself in the employer’s shoes.
Don't forget that if you have any questions you're welcome to visit us and schedule an appointment with one of our amazing counselors or just talk with any of the student assistants.
Good luck!
-Marina
