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Cover letters are an essential component of the job application process, and it’s important to make sure that your cover letter is well-written, professional, and error-free. One important aspect of formatting your cover letter is making sure that it is in MLA style.
In this guide, we will go over the key elements of MLA-style cover letter writing and provide tips on how to make your cover letter stand out.
MLA Style Basics
- MLA style is a citation and formatting style used in academic and research papers. When it comes to cover letter writing, MLA style is mainly used for formatting and layout. Some of the key elements of MLA style for cover letters include:
- Double spacing
- 12-point font
- One-inch margins
- Left-aligned text
- Times New Roman font
Creating a Professional Header
The header of your cover letter is the first thing that the hiring manager will see, so it’s important to make a good impression.
To create a professional header in MLA style, you should include your name, address, phone number, and email address. You should also include the date and the recipient’s name and address. For example:
John Doe 123 Main Street Anytown,
USA 12345 555-555-5555
Date
Ms. Jane Smith
Hiring Manager ABC
Company 456 Park Avenue
Anytown, USA 12345
Cover Letter in MLA Opening Paragraph
The opening paragraph of your cover letter should grab the hiring manager’s attention and entice them to read the rest of your letter. In MLA style, you should start with a sentence that explains why you are writing the letter and what job you are applying for. For example:
I am writing to express my interest in the position of Marketing Manager at XYZ Company.
Cover Letter in MLA Body Paragraphs
- The body paragraphs of your cover letter should provide more detail about your qualifications, skills, and experiences that make you a good fit for the job. In MLA style, you should organize these paragraphs into clear and concise sentences. Use bullet points or numbered lists to make your points stand out. For example:
I have a degree in Marketing from XYZ University and have been working in the field for 5 years. I have experience managing marketing campaigns and have a track record of increasing sales by 20%. I am a team player and have experience working with cross-functional teams.
Closing Paragraph
The closing paragraph of your cover letter should summarize your qualifications and express your enthusiasm for the job. In MLA style, you should also thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration and include a call to action. For example:
Thank you for considering my application for the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to the team and am confident that I would be a great fit for the role. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sign-Off and Signature
To close your cover letter in MLA style, you should include a sign-off such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards” followed by your name and a signature. For example:
Sincerely,
John Doe
Proofreading and Editing
Before you send your cover letter, make sure to proofread and edit it for any errors or typos. This will ensure that your cover letter is professional and error-free. In MLA style, you should also use spell check and grammar check to ensure that your letter is error-free.
Final Remarks
In conclusion, formatting your cover letter in MLA style is an important aspect of making a good impression on the hiring manager. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your cover letter is well-written, professional, and error-free.
Remember to use double spacing, a 12-point font, one-inch margins, left-aligned text, and Times New Roman font. Create a professional header that includes your contact information and the recipient’s name and address.
Start your letter with a compelling opening paragraph that explains why you are writing and what job you are applying for.
Use the body paragraphs to provide detail about your qualifications and experiences, and close your letter with a summary of your qualifications and a call to action.
Remember to proofread and edit your letter for errors before sending it. With these tips in mind, you will be well on your way to crafting a winning cover letter in MLA style.
