Overview
A cover letter isn’t just a formality. It’s your chance to introduce yourself, share your strengths, and show why you’re a great fit for a job, internship, or professional opportunity. When done well, it helps you stand out in a crowded field.
This week, you will apply what you have learned about adapting your writing to specific audiences by crafting a professional, persuasive cover letter. You will also reflect on your choices, such as how tone, language, and structure help shape your message and connect with your reader.
This assessment builds a valuable career skill: writing with purpose and confidence for a real-world audience.
Assessment Preparation
Step 1: Research Your Cover Letter Purpose
Choose a real job, internship, or professional opportunity that aligns with your career interests.
Research details about the employer, including:
• The company's mission, values, and reputation
• The job’s specific requirements and responsibilities
• Who the hiring manager or target audience might be
Use these guiding questions as you think about the following questions:
• What skills and experience is the employer looking for?
• How can your strengths align with their needs?
• What qualities make you a strong candidate for this role?
Step 2: Identify Your Audience and Purpose
Answer the following questions:
• Who is your audience (e.g., a hiring manager, recruiter, or selection committee)?
• What are they looking for in a candidate?
• How will you tailor your message to connect with their expectations?
Assessment Deliverable
Part 1: Cover Letter (1 page maximum)
Craft a professional cover letter that demonstrates clear alignment between your qualifications and the job. Focus on intentional, audience-aware choices in structure, tone, and message. Your focus should be on:
• Structure and format: Use a professional cover letter format.
• Message alignment: Explain how your skills and experiences match the role.
• Tone and professional voice: Maintain a confident yet engaging tone that aligns with your industry.
• Clarity and style: Ensure your writing is well- structured and free from grammar or style issues.
Part 2: Reflection: Strategic Writing Decisions (175–350 words)
Reflect on your research and writing process. Consider how you adapted your message to fit the audience and purpose as you answer the following questions:
• What details from your research shaped your approach?
• How did you tailor your cover letter to this specific audience?
• What stood out about professional communication in this field (e.g., tone, structure, style)?
• How has this experience prepared you for future professional writing?
Tip: This assignment is a great step toward your goals inside and outside the classroom. It counts toward your final grade, but more importantly, it’s a chance to grow. Don’t wait for perfection. Submit what you have, and use your instructor’s feedback to keep building your skills.