Odds are you have a solid resume but are not quite sure how to go about writing an accompanying cover letter. Luckily for you, it can be much easier than you think. And yet it doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be done with extreme caution. Cover letters often serve as first impressions in virtually all career fields, making them a key stop on the road to professional growth. Needless to say, you want to make sure you have a cover letter that you are proud of and can help you successfully make it to the next step in the job application process.

Try and choose your words carefully because you should be able to fit everything that you want to say onto one page. A unique cover letter should be crafted for each job opportunity. Do your best to shape your writing to the needs of the business you are applying to. Here’s a basic, three-paragraph outline you can follow when formatting your cover letter:

Introductory paragraph
A strong opening paragraph can go a long way in establishing the tone that you want to take for the rest of the cover letter. Get right to the point. Clearly express why you are reaching out to the company in the first place. Be sure you include all relevant information here (name of the position you are applying for and the location of that position are great places to start). Next, you should make a positive comment about the company because it shows your interest in the organization and demonstrates that you have done your research. Employers appreciate both of these efforts to impress.

Second paragraph
The middle, body paragraph of your cover letter should essentially highlight the things that the company will like about you. It’s a good idea to follow a similar order to your resume here so that the employer can more easily follow along. Give concrete examples of your educational and professional experiences that will add value to their company. You can also personalize it a little bit here by offering more intangible qualities that make you the best fit for the available position (hard-working, friendly, etc.).

Closing paragraph
Your final paragraph should include a firm next step. This can be accomplished in few different ways. Requesting an interview is always a good idea. If you are including any supplemental materials (portfolio for example), indicate that here. You can always offer to follow up with a phone call. Give a firm deadline in your cover letter for such a call, but make sure you follow through with it on your end.