A cover letter is a document that accompanies a more important document that is sent by mail. For example if an individual is applying for a job, rather than just sending a resume in an envelope, a cover letter is prepared to accompany the letter. The cover letter introduces an applicant to the prospective employer and will contain a sentence or two that may influence the person receiving it to
. take a closer look at the resume. When grants are written, the funder usually requires a cover letter to be sent with the application. Just like with a job interview a cover letter should introduce the organization applying for the grant to the funding source. A good cover letter for a grant application will peak the reader's interest and often can lead to an organization being chose to receive a grant. A cover letter is like professional dress when going for an interview, if it is done properly and in good taste it will make a great impression. However if it is left out or done without much thought, it will make a bad last impression.