As a senior who is set to graduate in May, I know how nerve-racking it is to try to find a job following graduation. However, the task at hand doesn’t have to get too daunting, as we can climb this mountain together! When applying for a new job, the first thing your potential employer will see is your cover letter, this is the first page of your resume. Now, you may be asking yourself, “What is a cover letter?” A cover letter is something you write to support your resume that outlines your credentials and gives the hiring manager some background on your skills. This simple document is very important, and a lot of jobs will require cover letters, but it can be a little tricky to know what to write. Because of this, I’ve put together some timely tips for writing a good cover letter to take some stress off our graduates and any potential job seekers.
Do’s
- Do your research on the job you are applying for to help make your cover letter more poignant. Make sure to research the company and the position you are applying for as this can make you stand out as someone who goes above and beyond. This research will also help your cover letter be more customized and well-fitted for the position you’re applying to. Hiring managers don’t want to read a cover letter that is blanketed and basic; they want to know why you’re good for this position at this company.
- Do focus on your future in your cover letter. The cover letter highlights where you see yourself going in the future and what you hope to accomplish. I suggest utilizing your cover letter to bridge the gap between your past and your future. If you’re making a career change or reaching for a new role, the cover letter can help give some background.
- Start out strong. Remember, you can catch their attention and make them want to read your resume. To do this, open with your name and what position you’re applying for. Then, personalize it. Explain why that specific position excites you or what exactly what skills you bring to the table, and lead with your biggest selling point to pull the hiring manager into your resume.
- Do emphasize your value. Your resume provides the facts, including the amount of experience you have and a list of your skills. Your cover letter should emphasize these without going into every single detail – that’s what your resume is all about! Your resume is all about the facts, the cover letter is the fluff. Really lean into selling yourself and your value to their company. If you don’t believe you deserve the job, will they believe it?
- Get feedback. Have your parents, a fellow Bobcat, or a professor read over it with you. You can also take advantage of the University Writing Center; you can get hands on help and proof reading. This is not only to review any grammar that might have slipped past you (Microsoft Word can help you with this as well), but also to get a second opinion. It’s always good to get a second opinion and have a second pair of eyes on important documents. You can also go to Career Services in person or online (https://www.careerservices.txst.edu/) for cover letter and resume critiques and assistance.
Don’ts
- Don’t have a lengthy cover letter. Your cover letter should only be one page. Aim to write it both personable yet to-the-point.
- Don’t go over your whole life story. Remember, your resume is your past while the cover letter is your future. You can discuss things that have affected your resume, the reasons behind taking time off following graduation, or a gap in your work history, but it should not talk about accomplishments from years and years ago.
- Don’t lean too far into the flattery. Remember, you want the tone of your cover letter to be professional. Sell but don’t beg. You want to walk that fine line. Pro tip: ask your reviewer to check for this specifically!
- Don’t be flat. You should convey enthusiasm, you want the job, and you would be over the moon to get it. Remember, you’re selling why they should hire you.
Cover letters should not be ignored! If you’re still confused, I suggest Googling impactful, beginner cover letter templates on Google. If you want more help, you can also reach out to career services and watch a LinkedIn Learning video on how to write an amazing cover letter. Now, let’s get this job, Bobcats!
Isabel Lauren Loewe is a senior majoring in film production and a student worker in the IT Assistance Center.
