Cover Letter Guide

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a formal way of introducing yourself to a prospective employer. It should inform the employer of your interest in the position along with experience and qualifications that make you a good candidate. Cover letters must be individually written each time that you apply for a job. Careful consideration is needed when preparing a cover letter because this is usually the first document read, even before the resume, and the employer often uses the letter to evaluate your writing ability and professionalism.

What is included in the cover letter?

An effective cover letter should be either employer- or position-specific, and be well-written. Highlight particular skills and experience you have that are applicable to the position. A cover letter is typically three paragraphs long, each paragraph with its own purpose.

• In the 1st paragraph, begin by stating why you are writing, whether inquiring about a particular position, or obtaining general information. How did you discover the opportunity? (referral, website, etc.)
• In the 2nd paragraph, you want to let the reader know how your skills align with their needs.  Include specific background information that relates to the position, be it experience or education.
• In the 3rd paragraph, you will conclude by telling the reader how you plan to follow up in a timely fashion. Take this opportunity to show them you intend to be proactive, which appeals to prospective employers. Provide the most dependable method of contact for you, usually either a phone number or email address. 

Click here to view a sample cover letter.

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Resume Guide

What is a resume?

A resume is a selling tool that outlines your skills and experiences so an employer can see, at a glance, how you can contribute to the employer's workplace.The most effective resumes are clearly focused on a specific job title and address the employer's stated requirements for the position. Unless you have extensive work experience, try to keep your resume to one page.

What is included in a resume?

1. Your Personal Information

• Name
• Address
• Email Address
• Phone number

2. Skills Profile

Below your personal information, list your skills. Keep it basic but related to the job you are applying for. Instead of stating "Good at computers" put, "Proficient in Microsoft Office as well as a variety of spreadsheet programs." If it doesn't relate to the job, don't list it.

3. Employment History

In this section, list all of the previous jobs you've had that qualify you for the position. Update this section to keep it as current as possible. List any tasks you had to do as well as any achievements you accomplished while at the job.

4. Education

Begin with the most recent education first, and list them in descending order. Put down what degree you earned as well. Recent graduates can include GPA if over 3.0.

5. References

At the end, list any references the company may contact for further information about you. You can list personal or work-related references, but do not list anyone related to you. Keep the list short, starting with your strongest reference first. Make sure you ask for permission before listing your references.

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Resume Resources

• HCareers
• Hospitality Sample Resumes
• Best Sample Resumes
• Resume Maker

Resume Checklist Links

• College Grad Resume Checklist
• JobWeb Resume Checklist

*For additional career resources, please see our job posting tab.