Cover Letter Do's and Don'ts

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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.