This article provides a basic checklist for use in evaluating cover letters you have written, before they are finalized and mailed. It provides a basic list of “do’s” and “don’ts” that can be used as a last minute check to ensure maximum cover-letter effectiveness and impact.

COVER LETTER “DO’S”

1. Keep all cover letters to a single page, no exceptions!
2. Be brief and concise.
3. Eliminate any unnecessary words that add nothing to clarity or meaning.
4. Proofread for poor grammar, spelling, and typos; they can be deadly!
5. Always address letters to a specific individual, never to a general function. 6. Unless responding to an ad where instructions specify differently, always send letters directly to functional managers rather than the human resources or employment department.
7. Even where ads specify you are to send your response to human resources, do the necessary research and send a second copy directly to the manager of your target function.
8. Keep job descriptions brief and pithy.
9. Focus your letter on relevant results and achievements, not just job responsibilities. 10. Highlight significant accomplishments with bullet points; make sure they are seen!
11. Include compensation requirements, but only if you are certain they won’t screen you out from an otherwise attractive opportunity.
12. Include geographical preferences or restrictions, but not if they are likely to screen you out from an otherwise highly desirable opportunity.
13. Except when using the resume letter, be sure to include a well-written resume as an attachment to the cover letter.
14. Stick to standard business letter formats; avoid the creative or exotic.
15. Use only commonly recommended type styles.
16. Make effective use of “white space,” making your letter easy to read.
17. Use standard business paper, 20- or 24-pound bond, either white or buff in color.