Cover Letters and other career correspondence
Your letter is your introduction —it continues or starts a conversation about work or education
Just as you start a conversation by introducing yourself, a résumé should always be sent with an accompanying letter. Picture yourself sitting face-to-face with a person doing work that is interesting. What would you say? What do you want to ensure they know about you before you leave the room? Your letter is a chance to make a great first impression or continue a conversation that has already been started.

Your letter is something employers expect —it shows your professionalism and helps them get to know you
Every time you submit a résumé, you should attach an accompanying letter. Even if they don’t specifically request it, employers expect documentation from you that shows your professionalism and potential contributions. What better way to start than by using a cover letter?

Your letter should clearly show the match —it illustrates the connections between you and the work
Some employers scan your résumé first, while others start with the cover letter. To increase your chances of being invited to an interview, ensure that both documents clearly show the match between what the employer needs and what you can contribute. Once you have made the match, remember that the letter is your chance to stand out as an individual from the many other qualified applicants. Include information that supports and points to your résumé, without repeating it. Write professionally, using your own “voice”. Give relevant evidence from your life that will help them remember you.

Craft and review any correspondence with care
—that includes cover letters, prospecting letters, thank-you letters and emails
Any correspondence you have with a potential colleague or employer will be evaluated. Use the same careful writing, editing and