Cover Letters Should Be Actual Letters

A cover letter is supposed to be brief, readable, and professional. A fax cover sheet or a handwritten note should preferably never be used, especially when you want an employer to view you as a serious potential employee. The ideal cover letter is four to five paragraphs long, with each paragraph consisting of maybe three or four sentences. Keep in mind, too, that “less is more.” Your letter should preferably be no more than one page in length. Write clearly and concisely, and stay focused in each paragraph.

For example, one could use the following for writing an amazing cover letter:

1. write one or two sentences to introduce the purpose of your contact;
2. write a second paragraph to highlight your relevant skills and work experience;
3. write a third paragraph to outline academic credentials and relevant certifications;
4. write a quick paragraph outlining salary requirements (include such a paragraph only in response to a querying employer, of course); and lastly …
5. write a closing paragraph that reminds the reader how to reach you.