Your cover letter is your chance to make a great first impression on an employer. It should be more than just a form letter. Tailor it to the job and company, and make sure it highlights your skills and experience in a way that catches the reader’s attention. 

Here’s how to create a standout cover letter: 

• Customize It: Tailor your cover letter to the specific company and position. Show how your skills and experience match what they’re looking for. 
• Keep It Professional: Use a standard business letter format. Make sure it’s neat and follows professional writing guidelines. 
• Highlight Key Points: Point out how your skills and experience meet the job requirements. Include highlights from your resumé that demonstrate why you’re a great fit. 
• Add Personal Touches: Mention what excites you about the position and the company. Explain why you’re interested and what you can bring to the role that isn’t obvious from your resumé. 
• Be Concise: Keep your cover letter to one page. Make every sentence count to keep the reader’s attention. 

Career Centre Resources 

Workshops/ Group Activities/Individual Support 

• Resumé & Cover Letter Writing workshop 
• You've Got Skills and Self Reflection 
• Individual Career Support 
• Career Lounge 

Worksheets 

• Cover Letter - Did You Know? [PDF - 437 kB]
• Cover Letter Tips Checklist [PDF - 162 kB] 
• Parts of a Cover Letter & Cover Letter Introductions [PDF - 137 kB] 

Cover Letter Samples 

• Sample Cover Letter: 2nd Year Student [PDF - 127 kB]
• Sample Cover Letter: Biochemistry [PDF - 118 kB]
• Sample Cover Letter: Computer Science [PDF - 105 kB]
• Sample Cover Letter: Economics [PDF - 98 kB] 
• Sample Cover Letter: Environmental Studies [PDF - 90 kB]
• Sample Cover Letter: French Studies [PDF - 128 kB]
• Sample Cover Letter: Human Resources [PDF - 95 kB]
• Sample Cover Letter: Public Administration [PDF - 55 kB]
• Sample Cover Letter: Sociology [PDF - 88 kB] 

Additional Resources 

Job Bank - Government of Canada: How do I apply for a job?