Cover Letter Do's and Don'ts

Below are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when writing your cover letter.

Do’s

• Address your letter to a specific person.
• Use "Dear Director" or "Dear Personnel Manager" if you don’t know proper names.
• Send with resume.
• Keep it brief (one page).
• Send an original letter to each employer.
• Proofread all letters for mistakes.
• Use action verbs.
• Take action - either request an interview or let them know that you will follow up with a phone call.
• Be sure the employer can reach you (correct phone number, address, email).
• Let the employer know which job you are seeking.
• Be positive and upbeat.
• End your letter by thanking the person reading it for his or her time.

Don’ts

• Don’t ever send a cover letter that has typos, misspellings, or has food or drink stains.
• Don’t send photocopies. Send an original copy.
• Don’t tell employers what they can do for you; tell them what you can do for them.
• Don’t say anything you can’t back up.
• Don’t be vague.
• Don’t give a specific salary requirement.