Cover Letters & Correspondence

The Cover Letter: Format & Content

The cover letter introduces you to an employer, outlines your interest, and shows why you are qualified. The cover letter makes a connection, and each letter should be tailored to a specific job. Use confident language, write in an active voice, and limit your letter to one page.

➡Before you begin, ask yourself these questions

• How do your skills/attributes match what the employer needs?
• Why do you want to work for this employer? Why this position?

⭐The employer is trying to match the skills they need with the skills you have. Use keywords from the position description in your cover letter .⭐

Cover Letter Framework

• Opening Paragraph: Introduce yourself. Who are you (e.g. senior at Yale studying Anthropology)? For what internship/job are you applying? Why do you want to work for that employer? End your introduction with a short statement highlighting 2-3 related skills that will enable you to contribute to this position.
• Middle Paragraph(s): Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that highlights one of your skills that relates to the position; use the rest of the paragraph to show examples of that skill. Do not simply restate your resume; use the cover letter to show how your skills will help you in the position.
• Concluding Paragraph: Summarize your qualifications and reiterate your interest in the employer. Invite them to speak with you further regarding how your qualifications align with their mission and purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How should I address the letter if I don’t have a contact?
  It is best to address your correspondence to a specific person. If you do not have a contact, use OCS resources, including the Employer Directory within the Yale Career Link and Career Shift. Use the person’s full name, correct spelling, and current title. If you cannot find a name, consider using “Dear Hiring Manager.”
• How should I address the letter if I’m unsure of the recipient’s gender?
  Start letters with a salutation (i.e., Dear Ms. Employer). If you are unsure about the recipient’s gender, type out the full name (i.e., Dear Pat Pollen).
• Should I include my contact information?
  Include your email address, phone number, and LinkedIn URL if you have one.
• How long should the letter be?
  In general, your letter should have three to four paragraphs, with double space between paragraphs. The introductory and concluding paragraphs should be between one and three sentences, and the body paragraphs should be between three and five sentences. Vary the sentence length and structure throughout your letter to ensure a smoother flow.
• How should I close the letter?
  Close your letter with Sincerely, Yours truly, or Best regards, followed by your name. If you are submitting a hard copy, use resume-quality paper, and sign each letter individually (leave four returned blank lines before your typed name). Align your information to the left margin, and use a clear, easy-to-read font, such as Arial or Times New Roman.

Other Professional Correspondence

• Acceptance Letter: Written to accept a job offer and confirm the terms of employment.
• Withdrawal Letter: Graciously tell an employer you are withdrawing from further consideration.
• Informational Interviewing/Networking Letter: Expand your network and gain insight into a specific job function, industry, or company.
• Thank You Letter: Show appreciation to those who helped with your job search. After an interview, reinforce your interest or expand on the interview discussion.
• Statement of Purpose: If requested, this statement will articulate your intent for applying, future aspirations, and learning objectives.

❗Proofread Carefully – Errors can be “Deal-Breakers”