A cover letter is not intended to merely repeat information from your resume
Consider using the same heading as your resume (and reference list) to keep formatting similar
Do your research about the organization and the position
Use concrete examples of skills and experiences rather than simply stating them and connect your experience directly to the position you are applying for
Avoid gender-specific honorifics in the greeting, instead opt to address the person by their full name
Components:
Think of a cover letter as simply telling your "Why" story in three to four paragraphs. Why this hospital/ clinical, Why You are a good fit, and Why are your skills a fit for the employer.
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Paragraph 1: Introductory paragraph
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Starting your first sentence with a strong introduction can be a great way to catch the employers eye. Many cover letters begin with "I am writing to express my deep interest in...." An alternative could be "A person centered nurse requires dedication to the holistic needs of patients physical and mental wellbeing. Through these qualities I feel a deep connection and inspired to pursue this opportunity with The Mayo Clinic ...."
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Paragraph 2: Connect your strengths and qualities to those required by the position. Don't retell your resume. Focus on a roughly 3 skills, experiences, qualities that you want this employer to know about you.
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Paragraph 3: Connect the values and mission of the organization to your experiences. Show the employer why you are a fit for their opening versus simply telling them you are "perfect" for the role.
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Paragraph 4: Brief summary, thank them for their time, and invite future contact
Cover letter examples
Save time with this tip
Keep the paragraphs you write for cover letters in a spreadsheet or separate document. Label each paragraph with the skills, qualities, values, and/or experiences referenced. Make it easy to identify and replace institution-specific information. As you job search, select the appropriate paragraphs by reading the job description and researching the mission and values of the organization. Additionally, save a basic heading, introductory, and closing paragraph as these only change slightly. Quickly replace any specific information and you've created a fresh, new cover letter without writing it completely from scratch.