A cover letter requires the job-seeker to answer the most important questions on the mind of the committee chair or committee. Résumés and cover letters work together to represent you in the most positive light to prospective employers.What is a cover letter? Summarize how your qualifications meet the needs of the employer (match your skills to specific requirements in the job description). A cover letter is a three- to four-paragraph memo to employers that explains your interest in the job and company as well as your qualifications for the role. Always write a cover letter from scratch. This guide provides top tips for crafting a cover letter that not only meets format standards but also shines with personalization and professionalism. Highlight no more than two or three qualifications in your cover letter. Learn how to create a competitive resume and cover letter one step at a time during our FREE interactive Resume and Cover Letter presentation. Your cover letter gives you a first impression and sets you apart from the rest of the applicants that didn't submit a cover letter at all.