Cover Letter Writing Tips for Blind or Low Vision Job Seekers
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The primary purpose of a cover letter is to grab the hiring manager’s attention and provide an opportunity to share more about yourself. It’s a way to personalize your skills and talents, highlighting attributes that may not be included on your resume. You can also expand on specific points from your resume that may be challenging for employers to understand fully.
We recommend including a cover letter with your resume, even if a job announcement says “cover letter optional.” This signals to the person reviewing your application that you are serious about the job and allows you to share additional information about yourself.
Personalizing Your Cover Letter
Personalize your cover letter whenever possible by addressing it to the person who will be reviewing your application. If you’re applying online, consider sending a paper copy of your cover letter and resume unless the job advertisement indicates otherwise.
What to Include in a Cover Letter
- Introduction: Begin by stating the name of the job you’re applying for, along with any identifying information associated with the job posting, such as the job title, vacancy identification number, department name, or location if multiple locations are listed.
- Body: The next two or three paragraphs should highlight your skills, certifications, and reasons why you are an exceptional candidate for the job. If you have a gap in your resume, consider explaining what you did during that time. For example: “From 2023 to 2024, I expanded my knowledge of technology by taking classes through my local library, online platforms, and adult continuing education programs. My proficiency in Google Suite and Microsoft applications is now advanced.”
- Closing: Thank the reader for reviewing your cover letter and resume. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and your eagerness to discuss your application in an interview.
Disclosing Your Blindness or Low Vision in a Cover Letter
Deciding whether to disclose your blindness or visual impairment in a cover letter is a personal choice. On the one hand, disclosure might limit your application’s progress if the reader cannot envision how someone with limited or no vision could perform the job. On the other hand, some employers, such as AbilityOne contractors or centers for independent living, have requirements to hire individuals who are blind or have a disability.
For more information on disclosing a disability, listen to the APH ConnectCenter’s Employment Connections: Introducing “Employment Connections.” First Topic: Disclosing a Disability – ConnectCenter (aphconnectcenter.org).
If you have disclosed blindness or a visual impairment, the following components can be included in a cover letter.
Highlighting Assistive Technology Skills
For applicants who are blind or have low vision, a cover letter provides an excellent opportunity to highlight proficiency in assistive technology. You can mention specific tools or software you use to perform tasks efficiently, such as screen readers (e.g., JAWS or NVDA), magnification software, or braille displays. This showcases your technical skills and reassures potential employers that you can navigate technology independently.
Demonstrating Problem-Solving and Adaptability
Applicants with blindness or low vision often develop strong problem-solving skills and adaptability, which are valuable in any workplace. You might use your cover letter to provide examples of how you’ve successfully navigated challenges or developed creative solutions in previous roles. This can help to counter any concerns an employer might have about your ability to perform the job.
Overcoming Bias and Stereotypes
You can use your cover letter to address any potential biases or misconceptions proactively. For instance, you could mention how your unique perspective has contributed to a more inclusive and innovative workplace in the past. This can help to position your blindness or low vision as a strength rather than a limitation.
Networking and Advocacy
If applicable, you might mention your involvement in organizations or networks that advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. This could include participation in disability-focused professional groups, volunteer work, or leadership roles within the community. Highlighting these activities shows your commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, a valuable asset to many employers.
Follow the standard business letter format:
- Your Address: Place your return address on the upper right of the page, followed by a blank line.
- Recipient’s Address: On the left side of the page, include the address of the person you are writing to, followed by a blank line.
- Greeting: Begin your letter by greeting the recipient by their last name.
- Length: Your cover letter should fit on one page.
- Formatting: Use double spacing and a clear, easy-to-read font like Times New Roman in 11- or 12-point size. Margins should be one inch on all sides.
The body of your letter should be left-aligned and concise.
Final Checks
- Always use spell and grammar checks to ensure your letter is polished.
- Have a trusted friend review the letter.
Submitting Your Cover Letter and Resume
- Ensure that the font used in your cover letter matches your resume’s.
- Submit your cover letter and resume as separate files unless instructed otherwise.
When attending an interview, mail your cover letter and resume or bring a printed copy with you.