Be
specific - always write to a specific person and state that you are
interested in a specific position (or at least a particular field). Being
vague or indicating that you are interested in ANY position within a
particular organization is likely to give the impression that you are
unfocused and unclear about your career plan.
Each letter should be individually produced and tailored to the specific
position/employer. Research the organization and career field and include
some of this information in the cover letter. Use annual reports, the
employer's web site, Chambers of Commerce, or one of the many directories
available to you in the Career Center to gather information before writing
your letter.
Always
write a cover letter with the goal of explaining how YOU can help the
employer, NOT how the employer can help you.
The
letter should express confidence in your skills and potential value to the
employer without appearing egotistical or grossly exaggerated. Do not use
the cover letter to apologize for not having certain qualifications, such as
years of experience.
Do
not repeat your entire résumé. Rather, highlight relevant experiences or
elaborate on specific areas that relate to the position.
If
you are responding to an advertisement for a job, search the advertisement
for key words such as required, desired, or must have. It is often a good
idea to include those qualities or qualifications in your cover letter. Do
not assume that the employer will pull this information from your résumé.
The
letter should be one page - three or four paragraphs - and centered in the
middle of the page for a visually attractive letter.
The
cover letter is a business letter and should be written in business letter
style. You may use the modified block style in which the date, closing, and
signature are indented to 3.5 inches or you may wish to begin all lines at
the left margin. Remember to sign the letter in the space above your typed
name. Please allow four spaces between the complimentary closing ('Sincerely, Sincerely Yours') and your typed name.
Use
8 1/2" x 11" good quality bond paper that matches your résumé.
Lawrence University, PO Box 599, Appleton, WI 54912 (920) 832-7000 Contact Lawrence
