www.macalester.edu Phone: (651) 696-6384 Email: [email protected]
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QUICKSTART GUIDE TO...WRITING A COVER LETTER
INTRODUCTION
• State the position for which you are applying as it appears on the job/internship posting.
• Lead with something other than, “I am writing to apply for…”
• Name drop if possible (especially if you have a connection to the organization they are likely to recognize):
“Professor Mac Macalester suggested I contact you regarding this internship opening.”
• Do not bother saying you found the position in a database or online; they likely will not care.
• State why the company/position are appealing to you or why you would like to work with them.
• Show you care by researching the organization and recognizing the nature and quality of their work.
Hint: The introduction is not usually more than three to five sentences.
LINK YOUR SKILLS TO THE POSITION
• Read the job description and identify the main skills or experiences the employer is seeking.
• Address these as best you can, referencing different experiences, coursework, interests, etc.
• Share an example of a success story: “I completed a semester-long policy evaluation for the CDC that resulted in
procedural and effective changes in appointment scheduling.”
• Be specific and cite tangible results of your work.
• Always answer the question for the reader of “Why is this important for me to know?” If you’re going to share a
specific skill with them, connect it to the position that you’re applying to. Don’t just list the skill.
Hint: This section can be one long or two short paragraphs, partially dependent on the complexity of the job.
CLOSING/FOLLOW-UP
• Start this final paragraph with a statement summarizing your qualifications and interest in the job.
• If possible build in follow-up: “I will call you next week to inquire about the status of the position.”
• End with “Thank you for your consideration.”
• Have a professional sign-off: “Sincerely, Mac Scott.”
Hint: The ultimate objective of the cover letter and resume is to get an interview, so show the employer you are a strong
candidate by presenting a nice balance of background, information, and enthusiasm.
GENERAL TIPS:
• This is a business communication: strive to be clear, concise, and direct.
• While it is possible to work your own voice/personality into the note, be careful not to overdo it. This is not a
creative writing exercise.
• Don’t use “I” to start multiple sentences; mix it up!
• Be confident in tone, but do not go overboard to the point you sound arrogant.
• Don’t believe/wish/hope. Instead of saying “I believe I am qualified…” say “I am qualified.”
• Keep your letter to ¾’s of a page (with rare exceptions).
• Don’t repeat information verbatim from your resume. Use the letter to draw out themes, information, and interests
not apparent on your resume. The documents should work hand-in-hand.
Hint: Write a quick first draft and don’t agonize over perfection. There is time for that in the editing process. These
letters get easier to write as you do more of them.
1600 Grand Avenue
Saint Paul, MN 55105
(555) 555-5555
March 9, 2017
Ms. Charlene Price
KPMG LLP
4200 Wells Fargo Center
90 S 7
th
St
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Dear Ms. Price:
I would like to express my deep interest in the Computer Programming Summer Leadership Program. I learned about this
program from my professor, Dr. Townsend. I believe this would be an excellent opportunity for me to explore career
opportunities in computer programming and coding. I have a successful record of leadership both at Macalester College
and the community that I wish to further develop through this program.
Leadership is such a crucial component to personal success and I believe I have the communication, organization, and
collaborative skills to fully participate and develop through the leadership program. I am currently the President of
Student Coders of Macalester. I have the responsibility of recruiting new members each year, planning monthly coding
challenges and competitions that allow students to use the skills they are learning in class or in their free time to compete
against each other during Coding Marathons held twice an academic year. The first year I was a member of the club we
had 8 members. The membership has now grown to over 25 active participants. I believe this is because of my passion for
coding and my ability to connect with others and communicate the clubs needs with others. I know I can greatly
contribute to and benefit from the KPMG Computer Programming Summer Leadership Program because I am eager to
learn from some of the best.
I have always known that computer science is an interest of mine. It didn’t take me long to declare a major in it once I
started at Macalester and I haven’t looked back. I have successfully completed a few upper level computer science courses
that have furthered my skills in C++, Adobe, and Java. I am confident that these skills will allow me to stay on pace with
the leadership program’s rigorous pace.
I have attached my resume for your review and would greatly appreciate consideration for your Summer Leadership
Program. KPMG’s reputation of a strong community participation and diligent work ethic has made it my first choice.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Sarah Smith
Sarah Smith
