Writing an Email Intro/Cover Letter

Senior Projects, Fall 2018

The cover letter is one of the best tools to make a positive first impression. This document is more than just a supplement to your résumé, it offers insight into your career aspirations and level of initiative. The following tips can help you convey the right messages:

• Address the letter to the person hiring for the position. Call the firm’s main phone number and ask for the name and the title of the person if it is not spelled out in the job advertisement. Verify and double-check the spelling of the name and person’s title.

• Start strong, with a powerful opening paragraph that briefly describes how you heard about the position and why you’re interested.

• Tailor it to the specific job opening and company. Research the firm and the industry through the Internet, trade publications and the library. Within the letter, demonstrate your knowledge of the field and the position’s requirements, and explain why your background meets the firm’s needs.

• Be careful not to rehash your résumé in the cover letter. Instead, focus on key aspects of your background that relate directly to the job.

• Close the letter by outlining your next steps, stating when you will contact the person to follow up, reinforcing your enthusiasm for the job.

• Limit the length of your cover letter to one page. Be succinct and to the point, and avoid using generic buzz words and phrases — show them you are the perfect candidate for the position by being genuine and original.

DESIGN JOB SEARCH RESOURCES
AIGA National
AIGA Philadelphia
Coroflot
Behance
Authentic Jobs (web)
Smashing Mag
Krop
Dribbble
Design Observer
Simply Hired