What are some reinforcing consequences you can deliver following a practice session– things that this particular student enjoys, wants, seeks out, etc.?
Are you using labeling and social praise to make the contingency between desired behavior and reinforcing consequence clear to the student?
What reinforcing consequences can you arrange that are more naturally or intrinsically connected to this targeted behavior?
Ideally, the submission of a cover letter and resume might result in a job offer, or a phone call for an interview – this is the most naturally reinforcing consequence. In the instructional context, as the student completes practice tasks or drafts an entire cover letter, let your reaction be the connection! When the student has developed an acceptable cover letter, show it as you read by smiling, with explicit feedback on what was “good” about it.