You will probably find yourself agonizing over what to say in each cover letter you write. This is not surprising, and you are not alone.   Care, every step of the way, is critical in writing a good cover letter, so consider the following helpful pointers as you begin sending out your resumes to prospective employers:

 

Do No Harm.

No typos; no misspelled words; no errors. No kidding!

• Your letter must be well organized and neat: date, address, salutation and signature lines all in the right places.
• The content should be coherent and grammatically correct.
• Don't try to be clever; do be genuine.
• Your stationary must be business-like.

Know the Facts.

Do your research. At the very least, go to all relevant websites to gather information. Check NALP sheet when available.

• Have the exact name and spelling of the firm or organization.
• Identify, and spell correctly, the name of the individual to whom you are writing.
• Avoid "To Whom It May Concern" at all costs.
• Clearly state whether you are applying for a particular position or making a general inquiry about possible future employment.

Get to the Point.

That you are looking for a job is not the point. The point is why you are interested in this particular employer and/or employment situation and what you have to offer to them. Your message could say:

• You are eager to be a part of the organization or firm. Why?
• You have valuable skills and experience that fits their needs. What are they?
• Your work is accurate and prompt. Give examples.
• You are available when and where they want you. Or state your preferences.

Expand on the Contents of Your Resume.

In addition to your resume, you may wish to include references, a writing sample and/or a copy of your transcript.

• Do not simply restate the information contained in your resume. Rather, highlight or elaborate on one or two items mentioned in it.
• List as enclosures the items you are sending.

Do Not Drop the Ball.

Turn every contact into multiple contacts. You might:

• Call the person you are writing to and ask if you can send the materials.
• Wait until the letter has arrived, then send a follow-up e-mail or leave a voicemail to verify it was received.
• Inquire about any other items they would like to receive.
• Confirm when you should follow-up to set an appointment.
• If nothing results from your first attempt, and you are genuinely interested in this potential employer, inform them that you plan to contact them again in a given number of months to see if the possibility of employment has improved.

Source: www.usatoday.com/money/jobcenter/jobhunt
 
Listed below are several examples of cover letters that students should consult in order to get a feel for what type of information they should include on their own cover letter. Remember that each cover letter should be tailored to the employer.
 
Source: www.piercelaw.edu/careertoolkit/cover-letters.php

Attachment	Size
Sample 1L Cover Letter A.doc	23.5 KB
Sample 1L Cover Letter B.doc	23 KB
Sample 2L Cover Letter A.doc	23 KB
Sample 2L Cover Letter B.doc	23 KB
Sample 2L Cover Letter C.doc	22.5 KB
Sample 3L Cover Letter A.doc	23 KB
Sample 3L Cover Letter B.doc	24 KB