A resume is a concise, written snapshot of your accomplishments and experience to date, designed to give an employer a quick view of your background and to create a favorable impression. The cover letter is an individually addressed letter that explains why an employer should pay attention to you and why a particular job or organization is appropriate for you. A cover letter accompanies a resume and, therefore, should highlight your strengths (as appropriate for the position), not repeat your resume. This letter should be interesting — give specific examples to back up the strengths you wish to highlight and be clear about the aspects of the position (and/or organization) that interest you.
To see example resumes and find templates, see our Resume and Cover Letter Guides in the Featured Resources section below.