Creating Cover Letters

A cover letter complements your resume by elaborating upon relevant experiences for a hiring manager or committee. The cover letter gives you a platform to connect your experiences and to demonstrate how they have shaped the professional you are or could be in the prospective job.

Customize cover letters with each new application to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences for the position. For example, if the job requires a geriatric specialist, you should not focus exclusively on your achievements over two years in a pediatric practice. Instead, discuss similar roles or emphasize transferable skills you gained that would make you a valuable asset to the new team.

The cover letter should include an opening that states your intention to apply, including the position title. Following, you should describe the experiences you have had that make you a qualified candidate. Next, address your interest in the role or organization: what do you know about the group’s mission or values that you could add to or learn from? Finally, conclude with genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity, welcoming any follow up. Review the guide below for a cover letter framework.

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