Your cover letter carries as much weight as your resume. Maybe even more, because it’s what the employer usually reads first. The cover letter is your handshake, your voice, a chance to engage the employer apart from your resume and work samples. It also clarifies which job you’re applying for. Even if the application instructions don’t specify sending a cover letter, you should include one.
Keep your letter to one page. Make it original, and sell your best qualities. Don’t be afraid to let somebody know (without sounding cocky) that you’re special. The best cover letters are lively, bold and conversational, but not gimmicky.
Customize your letter. Include a line or two that shows you're familiar with the publication, website or broadcast outlet you’re applying to: what it does, its history and the audience it serves. And don’t send a letter addressed to "Dear Sir or Madam" or "Dear Recruiter." You’re a journalist, so get the correct name, title and address of the person you should apply to. Make a phone call if necessary to make sure you have it right.
Edit and proofread! This is the first example of your writing that the employer will see, and it must be perfect in every way. Don’t forget to put all your contact info and the date at the top of your letter. And if you’re sending the letter in hard copy, don’t forget to sign it!
The letter should consist of three or four brief paragraphs:
OPENING PARAGRAPH: Give the basics: why you're writing, which job you're applying for, how you heard about the opening, and who you are. If you're writing to ask for an informational interview, mention why the organization interests you so much.
That's the standard way to open a cover letter. But if you want your letter to really stand out, you might start with a paragraph that’s more like the lead of an article—something that grabs the employer’s attention and compels him/her to read on. This could be an anecdote about a tough story you covered, or an epiphany you had that made you want to be a journalist, or a catchy phrase that gets across your utter confidence in your ability to do the job. Be creative. But remember, the whole opener must be brief, so get to your point quickly.
MIDDLE PARAGRAPH(S): Here’s where you describe your relevant qualifications. Don't just repeat what’s on your resume; flesh out the most interesting work you’ve done. Explain exactly what makes you an excellent fit for the job. Focus on what you can do for the employer, not on what the employer can do for you. Also, emphasize the diligence and enthusiasm you’ll bring to the workplace. You need to show that you have the right work ethic and attitude, as well as the skills, to succeed in the job. The middle section is also a good place to show that you know something about the organization you’re applying to. A sentence or two on that is fine, just enough to customize the letter.
CLOSING PARAGRAPH: End by keeping the door open. Mention any enclosures or attachments to your letter (resume, references, clips). Then say that you will call the person in a given amount of time (usually a week) to see about setting up a personal interview. If the application instructions forbid phone calls, try e-mail. At the very least, state your strong interest in scheduling an interview and your desire to hear back from the person. Your final sentence should be courteous: "Thank you for your consideration."
