Santa Clara University

Cover Letter Tips

1. Research the intended recipient thoroughly and understand the nature of the organization’s products or services before you begin writing.
2. Keep your letter short, no more than one page. Be brief and concise.
3. Prepare a specific letter for each employer.
4. When possible, address each employer by name and title.
5. Open your letter with a strong sentence that will encourage the potential employer to keep reading.
6. Use accomplishment statements to describe your skills and contributions.
7. Be sure to demonstrate how you can support the organization rather than how you hope to benefit from the job.
8. Tailor your letter to the interests and needs of the person to whom you are writing. Focus on outcomes that will help solve the employer’s problems.
9. Ask directly for an interview and indicate when you will call to arrange a suitable time.
10. Check carefully for grammatical and typing errors. Have someone else proofread your letter before sending.