Do you need a cover letter? When applying to jobs and internships, your cover letter complements your resume and should connect the dots to show how your previous experiences fit the position.
Be sure to pay attention to the required documents and directions for every position. In certain industries, applications may not require a cover letter. If optional, make sure you write one.
When developing your cover letter, follow these three rules:
Closely read the job description and research the company.
From the job description, select 2-3 key responsibilities you have experience with or qualifications that you possess.
For each of the responsibilities or qualifications that you have picked, develop a specific example that represents how you have previously performed similar tasks or displayed similar qualities/skills. (This evidence can come from your previous work or academic experiences.)
Hooter wants to apply for this job at the Philadelphia Eagles found in the job description below.
Check out the cover letter below to learn how to write a cover letter or cover email. Notice how Hooter emphasizes in italics the key responsibilities from the job description to tailor his cover letter.
Philadelphia Eagles
Client Services and Operations Controller
Responsibilities
- Work with all team sponsors and their media/marketing departments for advertising specifications on strict deadlines
- Manage and implement all in-arena sponsor signage
- Execute and oversee all game day giveaways
- Organize and distribute sponsor tickets and merchandise
- Help to execute any sponsorship and client events
- Manage and track all client-specific social media posts
- Manage contracts when sold
- Oversee promotional game day pieces
- Any other tasks needed to execute contracted sponsorship elements
- Hours will vary depending on the schedule that week
Qualifications
- Excellent communication skills, both written and oral
- Manage partnership and client relationships
- Detail-oriented and organized
- High level of self-motivation and initiative; desire to be successful
- Professional phone presence
- Bachelor’s degree in sports management or related field
Hooter wrote this cover letter and tailored it to match the role he is applying for!
Hooter T. Owl
hirehooter.owl@gmail.com | (215) 204-XXXX | Philadelphia, PA | linkedin.com/in/hootertowl
- Use consistent style and fonts on all application documents
- Use the same header as your resume
June 1, 20XX
RE: Client Services and Operations Coordinator
Dear Hiring Manager:
- When possible, address your cover letter to an individual – otherwise use "Hiring Manager"
- Check that your letter addresses the correct organization
I am writing to apply for the Client Services and Operations Coordinator position with the Philadelphia Eagles that I found on Handshake. With an academic background in sports management and experience as an operations supervisor, I am a great fit for this role.
- Identify the purpose of your letter, how you learned about the position and why you are interested in the specific position and company
I will receive my Bachelor of Science degree in Sport and Recreation Management in May. My internship experiences have honed my skills in effectively communicating and fostering lasting relationships. I have coordinated regularly with marketing departments generating in-game advertising specifications, managed inventory and logistics, and assisted with client engagement via social media. Researching potential partners has helped me better understand the development of solid sponsor relationships and the forces driving brand needs.
Additionally, I have operational experience with Aramark at Citizens Bank Park, where I managed employees directly and ensured concessions ran efficiently. I am versed in managing a varying schedule based around games and events. I have experience fostering client relationships and providing quality customer service to team sponsors, similar to your own.
- Mention your degree and school
- Remember rules two and three – Select and Substantiate
- Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications
I am confident that I have the training, enthusiasm, and personal qualities to make a positive contribution to the Philadelphia Eagles organization. Thank you for your consideration, I look forward to discussing how my qualifications are in line with your needs for this role further.
Sincerely,
Hooter T. Owl
- Summarize why they should hire you.
- ALWAYS thank them for taking the time to consider you for the role
Stop by for a drop-in with a Career Peer or make an appointment with a Career Coach to make sure your resume and cover letter are ready to go.