Cover Letter Checklist
For each of the sections, remember to:
- Address your letter to a particular person If not, did you research to find out a specific person to whom it should be addressed?
- Spell the recipient's name correctly
- Use the appropriate title for your recipient (Mr., Ms., Dr.)
- Use a colon following the salutation
- Indicate exactly what position you are applying for and how you found out about the opening
- State clearly why you are interested in the position and the organization
- Provide specific examples of skills related to the position
- Present your letter in a form that is neat and attractive
- Avoid re-writing your resume
- Vary the sentence structure
- Limit the use of "I" and "My" at the beginning of each sentence
- Express appreciation for the employer considering your application
- Tell the employer what you can do for the organization rather than what it can do for you
- Create an original letter rather than a mass-produced copy
- Spell every word correctly and use crisp diction
- Verify the grammar, syntax, punctuation and capitalization throughout your letter
- Convey confidence without seeming arrogant
- Sign your name in blue or black ink
- Print your letter on bond paper (the same paper as your resume) using a high-quality printer