A cover letter is a crucial component of any job application, serving as your first introduction to a prospective employer. Crafting a well-written cover letter can make all the difference in whether or not you land the job of your dreams. As an NYU student or graduate, you have access to many opportunities, and writing an exceptional cover letter can increase your chances of securing a job offer.
Components of a Cover Letter
A well-written cover letter should consist of the following components:
-
Header: At the top of your cover letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address.
-
Salutation: Address the letter to the hiring manager by name, if possible. If you are unsure of the hiring manager’s name, use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Recruiting Team.”
-
Introduction: The opening paragraph should grab the reader’s attention and explain why you are interested in the position.
-
Body: In the body of your cover letter, explain why you are the ideal candidate for the job. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and qualifications.
-
Closing: End your cover letter with a strong closing statement. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to interview.
Formatting Guidelines
When formatting your NYU cover letter, adhere to the following guidelines:
- Use a professional font such as Times New Roman or Arial.
- Use a font size of 10-12 points.
- Use one-inch margins on all sides.
- Left-justify all text.
- Keep your cover letter to one page.
Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter
To write an effective NYU cover letter, follow these tips:
-
Tailor your cover letter to the job you are applying for. Highlight the most relevant skills and experience that make you the best fit for the role.
-
Use active, dynamic language that showcases your achievements and successes.
-
Research the company and incorporate information about the organization into your cover letter. This demonstrates your interest in the position and the company.
-
Be specific and avoid vague or generic language.
-
Proofread your cover letter carefully for spelling and grammatical errors.
Common Mistakes and How to Correct Them
-
Generic Cover Letters: Tailor your cover letter to the job you are applying for. Avoid using a generic cover letter template that lacks personalization.
-
Grammatical Errors: Proofread your cover letter carefully, and use grammar and spell-check tools to ensure you’ve caught any errors.
-
Focusing on Yourself Rather Than the Company: When writing your cover letter, focus on how you can contribute to the company and how you fit in with the company culture.
Examples of Exceptional Cover Letters
Here are a few examples of exceptional NYU cover letters from successful applicants:
-
A recent NYU graduate who landed a job at a non-profit organization wrote a cover letter that highlighted her passion for social justice and her experience working with underprivileged communities.
-
An NYU senior majoring in business wrote a cover letter for an internship that demonstrated his strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis.
NYU Graduates in the Job Market
NYU graduates are highly sought after in many industries, such as finance, technology, media, and healthcare. According to the NYU Wasserman Center, nearly 97% of NYU graduates are employed or attending graduate school within six months of graduation.
Key Takeaways
- A well-written cover letter is a crucial component of any job application.
- Tailor your cover letter to the job you are applying for, and focus on how you can contribute to the company.
- Use specific language and avoid vague or generic terms.
- Proofread your cover letter carefully for spelling and grammatical errors.
- NYU graduates are highly sought after in many industries, with a high percentage of graduates finding employment within six months of graduation.
FAQ
Q: How long should my NYU cover letter be?A: Your cover letter should be one page long.
Q: How can I make my NYU cover letter stand out?A: Tailor your cover letter to the job you are applying for, and highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Research the company and incorporate information about the organization into your cover letter.
Q: What should I avoid in my NYU cover letter?A: Avoid using a generic cover letter template. Focus on how you can contribute to the company, and avoid using vague or generic language. Proofread your cover letter carefully for spelling and grammatical errors.