1. Use the same header on both your cover letter and résumé for a cohesive and polished look.

2. When available, include the name, title, company, and address of the person you're writing.

3. If you don't know the recruiter or hiring manager's name, address your letter to "Recruiting Team" or "Hiring Manager". Avoid using "To whom it may concern."

4. Use the opening paragraph to introduce yourself. State why you're writing and how you learned about the position. Demonstrate your level of interest and knowledge of the organization in 2 to 3 more sentences. These final sentences of the opening paragraph should grab the employer's attention and encourage them to read on.

5. Show high enthusiasm about the company's business, goals, and mission, and what this position is trying to achieve. Show the employer that you have done your work researching the company and business requirements.

6. The middle paragraphs should emphasize and elaborate on your strongest qualifications and key relevant experiences. Address qualifications specified in the job description and give specific examples of when you've demonstrated the skills the employer is seeking.

7. Use the closing paragraph to express thanks for consideration and to request an opportunity to discuss the position. For long-distance searches, let the employer know of any plans to visit the area so that you might arrange an in-person interview.

8. If you're using the header from your résumé, do not repeat your contact information in the signature.