Cover Letter Rubric Initial Grade: _____ Final Grade: _____ of 75 points
A. Overall Style/Appearance _____x3=_____
5 Cover letter is written in correct business format (information aligned to left side of page, paragraphs are single spaced with a double space in between each). Letter is addressed to an individual and has professional opening and closing. Length, font, and point size are appropriate. Document is signed.
4 Letter uses correct business format with minimal error or omission of information
3 Letter has formatting errors or is missing information
2 Cover letter may appear unprofessional
1 Cover letter lacks business format and structure
B. Introductory Paragraph _____x3=_____
5 Paragraph tells why you are contacting the person/identifies the position and mentions how you heard about the position. It is clear that the applicant researched the company.
4 Paragraph includes appropriate information; however, reader is not enticed to read further.
3 Paragraph is bland or includes information that is not important to the reader.
2 Paragraph does not identify the position you are seeking or tell how you heard about the job.
1 Paragraph missing or incomplete.
C. Middle Section _____x3=_____
5 Paragraph(s) summarize why you are a match for the company and comments are backed up by well chosen specific references. Paragraph identifies why you are interested in the job.
4 Paragraph(s) identifies some qualifications but is vague.
3 Paragraph does not relate skills to the job you are applying for.
2 Paragraph(s) do not explain your background or strengths.
1 Paragraph(s) missing or incomplete.
D. Concluding Paragraph _____x3=_____
5 Paragraph concludes with confidence. It indicates a specific information on when you will contact the company to follow up. Closing thanks reader for his/her time.
4 Paragraph concludes with confidence and indicates next steps. Paragraph may be vague.
3 Paragraph assumes reader will follow up – does not indicate next steps.
2 Paragraph does not refer the reader to a resume or mention any plan for follow up.
1 Paragraph missing or incomplete.
E. Typos/Spelling Errors/Word choice _____x3=_____
5 Quality of writing/Word choice is excellent. Letter contains no or extremely minor mechanical errors.
4 Letter contains few errors. Sentences are concise and direct.
3 Sentences may be wordy, choppy, or include awkward phrases.
2 Letter includes mechanical errors that are distracting or word choice is awkward throughout.
1 Letter is difficult to read due to word choice or mechanical errors.
