Cover Letter Basics
A cover letter generally accompanies a resume when applying for a job. Cover letters are an opportunity to give specific examples of how you can fulfill the requirements listed for the job. Good cover letters don’t restate what is already in your resume.
Components of a Cover Letter
1. Contact information
Copy your contact information and formatting from your resume.
2. Salutation
If you can find the name of the hiring manager, address the letter to him or her directly. If not, address the cover letter to “Hiring Manager”.
3. Opening paragraph
The opening paragraph of the cover letter should be captivating. Tell a story! Show your passion for why you want the job and use this opportunity to set up the rest of what you will say in your cover letter.
Here are examples of bad and good opening paragraphs for someone applying for a job at a hospital.
- Bad Example: My name is John Smith, and I’m applying for the job of administrative assistant with your hospital.
- Good Example: Five years ago, we thought our unborn daughter might not survive through birth. I’ll never forget Dr. Rogers. He provided the kind of care we all want from a physician. I want to be part of an organization that provides hope to people, oftentimes in their most difficult circumstances. The following are a few ways I feel I can add value to the role of Administrative Assistant at General Hospital:
4. Major qualifications
List 3–4 of your major qualifications that specifically match the job description from the posting. Use key words and phrases from the job posting in your letter. Be specific about what results you have achieved and how you achieved them. Conclude the letter by giving two reasons why the hiring manager should consider you for the job. Be confident! Where possible, include your signature.
5. Spelling and Grammar
Even minor spelling and grammar errors can convince a hiring manager that you are not a good candidate for the job. Do everything you can to make sure your writing is clear and free from errors.
Sample Cover Letter
Dear Mr. Rodriguez,
Five years ago, we thought our unborn daughter might not survive through birth. I’ll never forget Dr. Rogers. He provided the kind of care we all want from a physician. I want to be part of an organization that provides hope to people, oftentimes in their most difficult circumstances. The following are a few ways I feel I can add value to the role of Administrative Assistant at General Hospital:
Organization. In my last job, I developed an organizational system to help our department stay on track and on budget with projects. This effort led to a 50% increase in on-time project completion.
Detail-oriented. Having served the needs of several vice presidents in a previous job, I understand the importance of being meticulous. They relied on me to ensure they completed assignments and attended meetings on time. My preparations and attention to detail resulted in them never missing a deadline and having all the resources they needed for their responsibilities.
Punctual. Other people can count on me. I am passionate about keeping balance at work and at home, and when I’m at work I’m focused and present. I’ve often helped with high-priority tasks early in the morning or late at night as needed, giving my leaders confidence that they can count on me.
As an accomplished administrative assistant with a love for organization, detail, and helping others, I feel I am a great candidate for this job. I look forward to hearing from you!
Regards,
Juana D'Angelo