what makes a great cover letter?

[mommy2BCD]

I am applying for a position as an extern for the summer. I really want the job! The director of the program made it very clear that your cover letter could be a determining factor in getting the position. They want someone that "stands out". What should be included ? Any of the interviewers on here have any advice or seen any great cover letters? Appreciate all the info I can get. Thanks

[Nurse Ratched, RN]

Standard cover letter format is usually three paragraphs:

(Why are your writing) I am writing to apply for x position at ___________.

(Teaser about yourself) X position would be a wonderful fit with my background in _______________.

(What's next) I note the advertisement indicated applications would be accepted until ________. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for your consideration,

xxxxx

We don't always have exciting experiences to report, but we can be eager to learn and convey that. It goes without saying, but here it is anyway :) - make absolutely sure your grammar and spelling in the letter and on your accompanying resume/application are flawless. A person in a hiring position often has definite ideas about things that mark you off the list, so don't get de-railed by something small.

Good luck!

[llg, PhD, RN]

I agree whole-heartedly with Nurse Ratched's comments above. The 2nd paragraph is where you have a chance to stand out by saying something about yourself that will make a positive impression. To help you figure out what to say, here are a few questions to ask yourself:

What about you or your experiences makes you particularly well-suited for the position?

Is there anything in your background that is particularly interesting or outstanding (and relavant to the situation)?

What are your particular strengths as a nursing student?

Why does working that particular hospital and/or that particular patient population mean something to you? Why do you want to serve them? (A lot of applicants are only interested in what they can receive from the program an not how they can help the hospital and the patients. Show that you are interested in their particular hospital and their particular patients. Show them that you share their mission -- and are not just interested in what they can do for you.)

Overall, you want to present yourself in an adult, professional way -- so don't get too "cutesy" with either your cover letter or resume. "Cutesy" application materials usually make the applicant look young and immature. Strive for fresh, simple, to-the-point -- but pleasant and enthusiastic.

Good luck,

llg