Cover Letter Formatting

Your cover letter should convey a professional message. Of course, the particular expectations of a professional format depend on the organization you are looking to join. For example, an accounting position at a legal firm will require a more traditional document format. A position as an Imagineer at Disney might require a completely different approach. Again, a close audience analysis of the company and the position will yield important information about the document expectations. Let the organization's communications guide your work.

For this example, we are using a traditional approach to cover letters:
  • Single-space your cover letter
  • Leave a space between each paragraph
  • Leave three spaces between your closing (such as "Sincerely" or "Sincerely Yours") and typed name
  • Leave a space between your heading (contact information) and greeting (such as, "Dear Mr. Roberts")
  • Either align all paragraphs to the left of the page, or indent the first line of each paragraph to the right
  • Use standard margins for your cover letter, such as one-inch margins on all sides of the document
  • Center your letter in the middle of the page; in other words, make sure that the space at the top and bottom of the page is the same
  • Sign your name in ink between your salutation and typed name

Before you send the cover letter

Always proofread your cover letter carefully. After you've finished, put it aside for a couple of days if time allows, and then reread it. More than likely, you will discover sentences that could be improved, or grammatical errors that could otherwise prove to be uncharacteristic of your writing abilities. Furthermore, we recommend giving your cover letter to friends and colleagues. Ask them for ways to improve it; listen to their suggestions and revise your document as you see fit. If you are a Purdue student, you may go to the Writing Lab or CCO for assistance with your cover letter. You can make an appointment to talk about your letter, whether you need to begin drafting it or want help with revising and editing.

Click on the link at the top of this resource for a sample cover letter. Please note that this sample is double spaced for readability only. Unless requested otherwise, always single space your professional communication.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Write a Effective Cover Letter

A cover letter tells the employer the type of position you're seeking and highlights the specific aspects of your experience that qualify you for a particular position. Your cover letter can explain things that your resume can't. If you have large gaps in your employment history because of school or you are reentering the job market or changing the focus of your career, a cover letter can explain these circumstances in a positive way. The cover letter should never, ever exceed one page, and it's best to keep it well under a full page. Be Sure to Include the Following: Include the position title (and number if provided) in the first paragraph of the cover letter (If e-mailing, make sure to include this information in the subject heading of your e-mail) Include your educational background (whether you are currently in an MBA program or have recently graduated from one) Make specific references to the company and indicate your knowledge of the company’s primary
Read more

Tips on How to Write a College Acceptance Letter

Study the tips given below to get an idea about writing a college acceptance letter to help you more. It is advisable that you write in your own style. You can use a modest tone, yet try to be serious. Always remember such letters need not be very long but should be meaningful. Mention the current date in your letter. Clearly state the purpose in the subject line in a concise manner. Start your letter writing with proper salutation or greeting. In the main paragraph let them know that you are informing them of your decision to accept their offer of enrolling in the specific program. Conclude your letter on a positive note such as with a sentence expressing your interest in the particular institution. Do not forget to express your gratitude for the selection committee or the institution for your selection at the end of the letter. You can also add your goal or dream about the program you have opted in the institution. Close your letter of college acceptance with the word “
Read more

Writing an Nomination Letter for an Award

Nominating a colleague for an award can be a large undertaking that requires a lot of thought and careful planning. Nominating your friend has many benefits, however. Someone from your business will be nominated, which makes your business look good and you will have practice writing a detailed case for an award, which helps your writing award nomination letter . In addition, your friend will remember the time and effort you went through to nominate her and later on she may nominate you when another award becomes available. Take special care to write a clear, convincing case for your nominee so she has the best chance of winning. 1. Read the award criteria carefully to make sure that your nominee is eligible. You will make yourself and the nominee look foolish if she doesn't meet the criteria for the award. 2. Brainstorm a list of reasons why your nominee should win the award. Focus on her achievements and the results of her work; awards committees want concrete details
Read more