Cover Letters

What’s the point of a cover letter?
 To customize your background for a specific job. It guides the reader by summarizing the skills
and experiences relevant to a particular opportunity.
 To demonstrate your research, writing, and analytical skills. It allows you to communicate
your knowledge of the employer, industry, and career field.
 To convey your motivation and professionalism. It reflects your personality, enthusiasm, and
interest.

Do letters need to be customized?
Yes. Effective cover letters are marketing tools for your job or internship search. Since marketing is
about understanding and meeting the needs of a specific audience, your letter should focus on the
needs of a specific employer. These needs or requirements are typically described in a job posting,
which can help you tailor your background to fit each opportunity. The quality and customization of
your writing will impress an employer and distinguish you from other candidates. Tempted to use a
generic letter? Consider this: Recruiters say they typically spend less than 30 seconds skimming a
candidate’s correspondence. Distinguish yourself with carefully crafted and compelling
communication.

Since recruitment is done online, you’ll most likely send your cover letter as an attachment,
preferably PDF. Your letter should be one page in length and maintain the same formality and
quality as if you were turning in an important term paper.

Address a specific person. A quick telephone call to an employer can help determine the name
and correct spelling of your recipient. If you can’t get this information, address the letter to "Dear
Hiring Manager" or "Dear Human Resource Manager." Another suggestion is to use a subject line in
place of the salutation (e.g., Application for Research Analyst Position). Avoid salutations such as
"Dear Sir," "Dear Madam," or "To Whom It May Concern." Do not use the term, Mrs., when
addressing a woman. There is no need to use a first name in the salutation: Dear Ms. Smith, not
Dear Mary Smith.

Keep it brief. A cover letter is intended to complement your resume, not repeat its content. Limit
the letter to one page.

Match yourself to the opportunity. Effective cover letters are accomplishment-oriented and
focus on specific skills and abilities. Avoid saying you’re “responsible” for a task or project; instead,
describe your results and connect them to the requirements of the position you’re applying for.

Demonstrate your interest. Show what you’ve learned about the employer and/or industry. This
is where your research and networking will pay off. Where appropriate, use the vocabulary of a
specific discipline or industry.

Write in your own style. You can adopt a conversational tone as long as your writing is flawless 

and grammatically correct. Avoid bland, overused statements such as "Enclosed please find my 

resume for your review" and “Please do not hesitate to call me.” Use active voice and powerful 

verbs for lively communication. 

Put yourself in the reader’s position. Focus on the reader by using the words "you" and “your.” 

(Avoid excessive use of “I” and “me.”Count the number of sentences that begin this way and edit 

accordingly.) Communicate what you can contribute to the reader’s organization, rather than what 

you expect to get. e.g., “I can communicate easily with your clients because I’m proficient in 

Spanish.” Not, “I hope to improve my Spanish skills by communicating with your clients.” 

Pay attention to detail. Employers value effective and careful communicators, and your writing 

skills are reflected in your cover letter. Grammar, spelling, or typographical errors will send you to 

the ‘discard’ pile. Ask an expert to proofread your letter for content, clarity, and correctness. 

First impressions count. The average employer receives thousands of letters annually from job 

applicants. Make yours visually appealing. 

 Use the same font as your resume. Keep it simple (e.g., Times New Roman, 12 point). 

 If you’re using a hard copy, print it on the same paper stock as your resume. White or cream 

color is preferable. 

 Sign a hard copy letter with blue or black ink. 

How do I follow-up after sending a letter? 

Unless an employer indicates otherwise, you may follow-up with a phone call or email within 5-10 

days of applying. Express your continued interest and inquire about the status of the hiring process 

or the recruiter’s timeline for filling the position. Rather than simply asking if your resume has been 

received, this approach is more apt to create a dialogue. 

Are there other types of letters used in job search? 

Most job search correspondence can be categorized as follows. 

1. Cover Letter: accompanies resume when applying for job or internship 

2. Thank you Notes: follow-up an interview or networking meeting 

3. Acceptance Letter: confirms acceptance of an offer 

4. Networking Email: requests career information or an informational interview (consult the 

Career Center Networking packet for sample emails) 

Sample Cover Letter Format 

Your Street Address 

City, State, Zip 

Current Date [4 returns] 

Name 

Title or Position 

Department 

Company 

Street Address 

City, State, Zip [2 returns] 

Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Last Name: [2 returns] 

Why Them? Engage your reader. Beginnings are important. Remember: “You had me at ‘hello.” 

To hook your reader, avoid generic openings such as, “Enclosed please find my resume …” State your 

goal and the name of the position. Indicate how you heard of the opening, and if you have a referral 

from someone, mention that individual by name. Personalize the letter by expressing an interest in 

this particular employer and demonstrate that you’ve done some research about the organization. 

Why You? Sell yourself. Make the match between you and the position / organization. Be as 

specific as possible in addressing the requirements listed in the job posting. Regardless of your many 

valuable skills and traits, focus only on the ones the employer specified. Describe your most relevant 

qualifications and illustrate with examples. Show how your background and experience qualifies you 

for this job. 

What’s next? Close with enthusiasm. Restate your interest in the opportunity and an interview. 

You may indicate that you’ll call to follow-up (if you’re certain you will do this and if the employer has 

not specified “no calls”). Employers appreciate initiative and motivation. [2 returns] 

Sincerely, [4 returns] 

(Sign your name here) Optional [2 returns] 

Your typed name 

Skills: 

Knowledge: 

Experience: 

Why you? 

Why am I a good match for the position/employer? 

Have I made a connection between the employer’s 

needs and my talents? 

 You 

How do I meet these needs? 

Job/Internship Requirements 

What are the employer’s top needs? 

Your Street 

Your City, State, Zip 

DATE 

Mr./Ms First and Last Name 

Employer Name 

Street Address 

City, State, Zip 

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name, 

I am eager to join your team at (Employer Name) in the role of (job title) which is posted on Tufts 

Career Connect. As an International Relations major with a passion for global cultures and a 

background working with youth, I look forward to using my education and experience to guide your 

student population. 

My first experience abroad was during high school. I studied in Latin America with a program similar 

to yours. This experience, in addition to family travel and a college semester in Madrid, has made me 

aware of the importance of cross-cultural learning and global understanding. In addition, my role as a 

tutor and camp counselor has trained me to work with young people of all ages. 

Your job description emphasizes the importance of collaboration, team work, and communication. 

These are qualities and skills that I have developed as a varsity tennis athlete, an ESL teacher in the local 

community, and a Student Assistant in the International Relations Department at Tufts. Each role 

involves widely varying populations and tasks that I manage and enjoy. Each one demands an ability to 

work effectively, both independently and as part of a team. I’m confident I can meet the demands of 

your position. 

Thank you for considering me for your team. I welcome your call or email at xxx.xxx.xxxx or first 

name. last name@sggswu. 

Sincerely, 

Your Name

Your Street 

Your City, State, Zip 

DATE 

Mr./Ms First and Last Name 

Employer Name 

Street Address 

City, State, Zip 

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name, 

A senior at Tufts University earning a BS in Electrical Engineering, I am writing to apply for the 

position of (job title) at your (geographic) location. The areas of renewable energy engineering and 

efficiency interest me, and I believe my electrical engineering background will provide a helpful 

perspective on the energy challenges you’re facing. I admire (company name’s) commitment to track 

emissions and increase efficiency at all stages of production, and I am eager to be a part of the team that 

continues to drive these emissions lower. 

At Tufts, I have maintained a 3.89/4.0 GPA in both traditional and project-based classes. One project 

was a research study involving room temperature plasma deposition for the creation of low cost solar 

cells. It was this research that led to my interest in energy sustainability from an electrical engineering 

perspective. Through my other coursework and projects, I have developed strong engineering and 

mathematical skills, including the use of powerful tools such as MATLAB. I have worked on several 

team projects that have developed my group oriented skills, and I am well prepared to collaborate with 

interdisciplinary engineering teams. 

Thank you for your considering me for your (job title) position. I am reachable at (email address) and 

(phone). 

Sincerely, 

Your Name 

Your Street 

Your City, State, Zip 

DATE 

Mr./Ms First and Last Name 

Employer Name 

Street Address 

City, State, Zip 

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name, 

While studying quantitative economics and mathematics at Tufts University, I have developed an 

interest in financial services. Learning more about the industry from Tufts alumni who work at 

(Employer Name) has encouraged me to pursue your analyst position posted on Tufts Career Connect. 

Based on my academic record, leadership experience, and work ethic, I offer you both the skills and 

attitude that would suit your position. 

I am confident the knowledge I have acquired throughout my studies at Tufts will prove beneficial at 

(Employer Name). I have thoroughly enjoyed and succeeded in my Statistics and Econometric Analysis 

classes. These courses have provided me with an understanding of statistical programs, such as STATA 

and Excel, and an even greater interest in financial services. The quantitative focus of my economics 

major requires acute attention to detail and has sharpened my analytical skills. 

Beyond the classroom, I have taken an active role in campus activities as a tour guide and orientation 

advisor for the past three years. These leadership roles have allowed me to interact with a diverse group 

of people. As a tour guide, I am continually building relationships with prospective students and their 

parents in order to demonstrate the value of their potential investment in a Tufts education. In addition, 

I have held increasingly responsible positions at YMCA Camp over the past five summers, requiring me 

to learn a new job each year. This environment of adapting to change, while continually taking on new 

responsibilities, is one in which I thrive. 

While serving as director of Hunger Project, a service group at Tufts, I learned the importance of 

focusing on details. I coordinated projects from beginning to end, which included scheduling dates with 

local shelters, recruiting volunteers, sending out reminders, and participating in the events. I pride 

myself on being organized and following through on every aspect of the job. 

Based on my knowledge of and interest in the financial services industry, ability to manage a wide array 

of tasks, and strong work ethic, I believe I can support you in the (job Title) position at your firm. I look 

forward to an opportunity to meet with you. In the meantime, thank you for your consideration. 

Sincerely, 

Your Name

Your Name 

Street Address 

City, State, Zip 

DATE 

Mr/Ms. First and Last Name 

Title 

Employer Name 

Street Address 

City, State, Zip 

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name, 

As a Tufts University senior who has developed leadership and organizational skills while balancing 

academics and employment throughout my college career, I am applying for your paralegal position at (Law 

Firm). While engaged in diverse experiences including internships, community service, and campus 

employment, I have maintained a 3.5 GPA and demonstrated my ability to work effectively in teams of all 

kinds. 

In researching your firm and the role of paralegals, I have identified the skills and qualities that would 

contribute to success in supporting your attorneys. In particular, I note the importance of researching, 

organizing, note-taking, and proofreading. I have mastered these skills to succeed in my classes as well as in 

my internships. 

While studying in Madrid last year, I interned at an organization that promotes global democracy. Using my 

Spanish and English skills, I drafted press releases, conducted research, translated, and edited material to be 

read by former Heads of State as well as the general public. This experience demonstrates the close attention 

to detail required to assist attorneys with complicated issues from SEC filings to IRS communication. 

In my campus job, I have had the opportunity to develop and improve my leadership skills. As Student 

Manager of Tufts University Catering Services, I direct a team of student caterers who set up and serve 

meals at a wide range of events. For example, I’m in charge of a weekly Shabbat dinner which caters to 

upwards of 150 students. Though quite different than the law, food service is also a demanding industry 

where success depends on teamwork. I know this personally from my involvement for most of my life with 

my family’s restaurant business. Interacting with customers requires professional communication which I 

learned at a young age. 

In terms of the content that I would work with as a paralegal, I believe that I would be well prepared because 

of my extensive coursework in international relations, political science and economics, which has enabled 

me to develop strong research, writing, critical thinking and analytical skills. 

I am enthusiastic about pursuing a career in law and hope that you will consider my candidacy for your 

position. You may reach me at name.name@sggswu.edu or 000.000.0000. Thank you. 

Sincerely, 

Your Name 

Your Name 

Your Street Address 

City, State, Zip Code 

DATE 

Employer Name 

Street Address 

City, State, Zip Code 

Dear Hiring Team: 

I am eager to use my training as a Tufts University Clinical Psychology major to facilitate teamwork and 

communication among patients, families, and the medical care team at (employer Name). Through my health 

care internships, hospital volunteer service, and academic coursework, I have acquired skills that prepare me 

to contribute to your mission as a (job Title). 

Based on my understanding of this position and your organization, the following aspects of my background 

are most relevant: 

 Commitment to health care exemplified by my volunteer work at Lawrence Memorial Hospital and 

my active leadership with the Student Health Advisory Board to Tufts University Health Service 

 Strong communications skills learned through a curriculum focusing on psychotherapy and 

practiced in positions as diverse as an assistant group therapist with Massachusetts Mental Health 

and telephone fundraiser for Tufts University 

 Analytical thinking and problem solving skills cultivated as program coordinator for Tufts 

Freshmen Orientation Community Service, which involved matching ### students to volunteer 

positions throughout Greater Boston 

 Teamwork and collaboration skills demonstrated as a productive new member of an existing clinical 

team at both Massachusetts Mental Health and Lawrence Memorial Hospital 

As you seek a candidate who can quickly adapt and contribute to your compassionate treatment teams, I hope 

you will consider my credentials. You may contact me at (000) 000-0000 or name.name@sggswu.edu. Thank 

you for your consideration. 

Sincerely, 

Your Name
‘Thank You’ Email ~ Following Interview for Job or Internship

SUBJECT LINE: Interview Thanks & Follow-up

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

I enjoyed meeting you yesterday and learning more about your research and design work at (Company
Name). Thank for the opportunity to interview for your (job title) position. My conversations with you and
with the engineering team have confirmed my interest in the position as well as the company.

My chemical engineering education and internship experiences have prepared me for this role, and I am
eager to apply what I’ve learned to help with your upcoming projects. In particular, I’m interested in
(specific project or task) where my background in (fill in appropriately) could be helpful. I hope there will
be an opportunity to continue our discussions.

Sincerely,

Your Name


Letter of Acceptance

Your Street Address
City, State, Zip
DATE

First and Last Name
Title/Position
Employer Name
Street Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

Thank you for your offer of employment as a (Job Title) with (Company Name). I am pleased to accept
your position as (Job Title) and I have enclosed the Employee Application that you requested.

To confirm my understanding of the offer, I am to begin work in the (location) office on (date), with annual
compensation of $00,000 plus benefits.

I look forward to joining (Company Name) and to making a solid contribution to your work.

Sincerely,

Your Signature

Your Name 

Checklist for Your Letter 

 

I tailored my letter to an individual employer, demonstrating through research that I understand the 

organization’s needs and how my skills and background match those needs. Note: This approach goes 

beyond copying and pasting a new company name into an old letter! 

 

I located an addressee name for my letter and verified the person’s gender. If I was unable to find the 

proper addressee, I used the suggestions on the first page of this packet to inform my writing. 

 

I proofread my letter several times (without relying on spell check!) and asked an expert to review my 

work. 

 

I prepared a PDF file of my complete application and followed the employer’s instructions for 

submitting the materials (e.g., use of a specific file name). 

 

 I developed a plan for organizing my applications and following up with employers.