The résumé. When most SMU students apply for an internship, the résumé is the thing they slave over, and with good reason; a student’s résumé is an integral part of showing their potential employer what sets them apart from the rest of the pack. But with all this time devoted to working on and perfecting résumés, another important part of any application to an employer can get left in the dust, the cover letter.
Why is the cover letter so important? According to Michele Houston, a senior lecturer in the Meadows Journalism School who has years of industry experience, the cover letter is often the first thing a potential employer sees. The Hegi Family Career Development Center’s handbook on cover letters further explains this point. “The cover letter is your introduction to a prospective employer that demonstrates why you are a great fit for a position.” A cover letters needs to entice the employer and demonstrated right off the bat why the candidate would be a good fit.
While the content of a cover letter is essential, formatting and correct grammar and spelling is equally, if not more, important. “Grammar issues, spelling mistakes and typos will kill your shot at the job,” Houston said. Houston also said that proper business format stands out to potential employers. The Hegi Family Career Development Center handbook contains multiple formats and examples for students to base their cover letters off of. Zane Cavender, a senior Political Science major who has had multiple internships, said that he always reads and proofs a cover letter before he sends it to an employer. “Even if the letter is based off of a previous letter, I will proof it and send it to a friend for proofing as well,” he said.
Another essential part of cover letter writing is personalization. Houston advises students to stay away from clichés and other over used terms. “Don’t use buzzword. Back everything up with evidence,” she said. Houston also tells her students to keep things direct. “Remember, nobody cares about your dreams and passions,” she said. “They want to know what you can do for them.” The Hegi Center’s handbook also reflects this sentiment. “A concise cover letter that reflects and does not repeat what is on the resume is effective,” it states. Cavender added that he always makes sure his cover letter addresses how he can help his new potential employer succeed.
As students end the fall semester and look towards the spring, they should remember to value their cover letter as much as their résumé. The best cover letter is concise, well written and professional.
