A cover letter serves as a tool for you to present yourself to an interviewer and make a favorable impression about your skills and personality outside of your resume. A cover letter can be more personable than a resume, and may serve to present your personality better than a resume. Often, an impressive cover letter will increase a potential employer's desire to more seriously read your resume. Conversely, a poorly written cover letter can discourage an employer from taking your resume seriously. The following information and format is essential to a good cover letter.
Stationery
Print your cover letter and resume in black ink, on neutral colored bond paper.
Spacing
Single space within paragraphs, double space between paragraphs. Text should not exceed four inches and three paragraphs.
The Inside Address
Follow professional business protocol for address on left margin, just above the salutation.
The Salutation
The cover letter should always be written and addressed to the person most
The purpose of the resume is to provide your qualifications to the employer in an accurate, succinct way, and to help you secure an interview. Appearance & Style The basics include use 8 1/2 x 11 paper. Use high quality, white or light colored paper. Limit your resume to one page. Make sure there are no typographical or grammatical errors. Be consistent in font and format. Include reasonably complete information. Use straightforward language and stick to the "basics." Avoid abbreviations. Education List your education using reverse chronological order with the highest degree attained listed first. List the degree earned, graduation 
"Do I need a cover letter with my resume?" is a frequently asked question by college students. Approximately two thirds of hiring managers will pay attention to the cover letter by either reading it thoroughly, or skimming it quickly to pass along with the resume. A compelling, properly written cover letter shows how you differ from other applicants, that you have knowledge of the organization, and that you are the ideal candidate for the position! The primary purpose of your letter is to have the reader act (read: give you an interview). Written in a persuasive, Attention-Interest-Desire-Action (AIDA) format, this 
In addition to your resume, two other forms of business correspondence are necessary during your job search: cover letters and thank you notes. Cover letters serve to introduce you to a potential employer. Take this opportunity to state your specific interest in a particular firm or organization and to highlight aspects of your background which make you the best candidate for the job. This is your chance to direct the employer's attention to your specific skills and abilities and to encourage a thorough reading of your resume. A well written cover letter can result in a phone call for a 