DO

• Address your cover letter to a specific person.
• Use appropriate titles, such as Dr., Ms., Mr., for the chair of the search committee, even though you know that several people will read your letter. If the advertisement stipulates that the letter should be sent to the "Search Committee," use "Dear Committee Members" as the salutation.
• Use standard letter format. See the Sample Cover Letter as a reference or consult a good sourcebook on letter writing.
• Be specific about the position for which you are applying. Use the same language that was used in the advertisement.
• Be organized. Think of how you will present your information.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm.
• Research. Know something about the schools where you are applying. Visit web sites to gain specific information that might be pertinent to the positions, particularly if it will allow you to mention courses that you would be qualified to teach or in which you have an interest.
• Vary your letter from school to school although the variation might be minimal. Remember that each school/job is unique.
• Ask your advisor to read a solid draft of your letter and give you feedback. He/she has probably served on search committees before and give you some advice on whether your letter would make the short list.
• Ask someone whom you trust to read the final draft before it goes out.
• EDIT. EDIT. EDIT. AND PROOF. Your letter must be perfect.
• Keep a copy of each cover letter for your records.