Mention the exact job opening and number (if applicable) in the first paragraph. • Give examples of how you have used or expanded your skills.The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long. A well tailored resume that aligns with a job description and experience level will always take precedent over a cover letter. These tips are going to help you go through the process a lot easier. Here you'll find guidelines for creating a solid résumé and a tailored cover letter. For industry-specific advice, be sure to check out the Career Communities. Stand out from other job applicants with free, professional cover letter templates. These cover letter templates are perfect for any job or industry.