Elements of a Good Cover Letter?

A great cover letter is personalized and tailored to the specific job, reflects a clear understanding of the organization’s mission, and demonstrates how your skills, values, and experiences align with the role. The cover letter should provide insight into the impact of your work, what you learned, and how you can contribute meaningfully, rather than simply repeating your resume. For public health jobs, a cover letter is where you can demonstrate your  relevant experiences, accomplishments, and competencies, and center your commitment to equity, systems change, and community well-being. 

Key qualities of an effective cover letter include:

• Personalization is tailored to the specific job and organization
• Mission alignment: shows your understanding of and connection to the organization’s work
• Skills emphasis: highlights transferable experiences and public health competencies
• Clarity and engagement: is written in plain language, avoiding excessive jargon or overly academic style

Tips for an Effective Cover Letter

• Tailor your cover letter for each job by adjusting language and emphasis based on the organization and role. Use the job posting as a guide to demonstrate your research and genuine interest in the position.
• Use clear, accessible writing. Avoid institutional jargon, acronyms, or overly formal language that may make your letter seem distant or generic.
• Avoid making the letter too self-focused, relying on outdated templates, and including typos and inconsistent formatting.

Remember, a strong cover letter should tell a concise and compelling story that connects your values and experiences with the organization’s mission. This initial impression can open the door to meaningful public health work.