Create a reference page to list your references. Although there is a REFERENCES section in your application, these are not needed unless you are contacted for an interview.Certifications and licenses. These writing guidelines apply to both email content and letters written as a document. There are just some formatting differences. Referral cover letters mention the mutual connection who referred you to the position and express gratitude for the referral. Include your relationship to the reference. Applying to a job on USAJOBS (Yeah, I know). In the application it does not mention a cover letter anywhere. From proofreading to tone, follow these six cover letter tips from VA recruiters to help your application to work at VA stand out.