Cover letter for job application
Cover letter for job application
Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips
Do you need to write a cover letter? A cover letter should be sent or posted with your resume or curriculum vitae when applying for a job, so it’s essential to write a good one. Your cover letter is an opportunity to show the employer how you’re an excellent match for a position.
Learn about writing a cover letter, including what to include, how to send it, review examples, and get free templates to download for many different types of occupations and applications. There are also guidelines and samples for writing email cover letters, inquiry letters, referral letters, prospecting letters, and networking letters.
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a (typically) one-page document that explains to the hiring manager why you are an ideal candidate for the job. It goes beyond your resume to explain in detail how you could add value to the company.
A cover letter is a document that you send or upload with your resume when applying for jobs to provide additional information on your skills and experience.
A cover letter may be required by an employer, optional, or not needed as part of a job application. The requirements should be listed in the job posting.
How to Write a Cover Letter
Keep in mind that your cover letter doesn’t have to be boring. Taking some time to showcase your personality and how it will be an asset to the employer can help your application get noticed. Follow these tips on how to write an effective cover letter.
Tailor each letter to the job. It takes a little extra time, but be sure to write a unique cover letter for each job. Your cover letter should be specific to the position you are applying for, relating your skills and experiences to those noted in the job posting.
Use keywords. One useful way to tailor your letter to the job is to use keywords from the job posting. Circle any words from the job posting that seem critical to the job, such as specific skills or qualifications. Try to use some of these words in your letter. This way, at a glance, the employer can see that you match the requirements of the job.
Explain how you will add value. Think of concrete ways to prove you will add value to the company. Include examples of specific accomplishments from previous jobs. For example, if you helped reduce turnover by 10% at your last company, or implemented a filing strategy that reduced file errors by 15%, include this information.
Try to quantify your successes when possible to clearly demonstrate how you could add value to the company.
Carefully edit your letter. Your cover letter is your first, and best, chance to sell the hiring manager on your candidacy for employment, so make sure it’s perfect. Read through your letter, proofreading it for any spelling or grammar errors. Ask a friend, family member, or career counselor to read it as well. You want to make sure the letter is polished before submitting it.
Cover Letter Examples and Templates
It can be beneficial to look at cover letter examples when writing your own. A sample can help you decide what to include in your letter, and show you how to format it.
This collection of free, professionally written cover letters will help you get started writing your own letters.
Below you’ll find both hard copy and email samples and templates, for a variety of different types of employment inquiries and job applications, including general cover letters, cold contact cover letters, referral letters, customized cover letters, job promotion letters, networking outreach letters, and letters to inquire about unadvertised openings.
Basic Cover Letters to Apply for a Job
Applying for a new job can be both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. However, writing a cover letter that really “sells” the qualities you have to offer an employer is a great confidence-builder—you’ll know your letter is perfect when you read it and think, “Hey—I’d interview me!” Here are some examples of effective cover letters, with downloadable templates.
Email Cover Letter Examples
While cover letters that are emailed do not have as conservative a format as traditional “snail mail” cover letters, there is still a specific structure one should observe when drafting and sending them. Here’s how to make sure your email cover letter gets read.
Cover Letters With a Referral
One of the best ways to “get your foot in the door” at a company you would love to work for is to mention a professional connection to one of their current personnel. Here’s how to ask someone to serve as a referral for you and how to drop their name in your cover letter.
Examples Listed by Type of Applicant
The ideal content and format of a cover letter depend both upon the type of position you are applying for and your relevant experience.
The cover letter of a seasoned professional will emphasize experience, whereas that of a recent college graduate is best focused upon training and potential.
Similarly, a cover letter for a sales position will use more aggressive marketing language than one designed for a social work role. The following cover letter samples are for candidates who are applying for a specific type or level of position.
Cover Letters Listed by Occupation
Here’s a list of cover letter samples and downloadable templates listed by industry and position. Choose one that’s a match for the jobs you’re applying for, then tweak it to include your most relevant skills and experience.
Applying for a Transfer or Promotion
When you’ve worked for an employer for a while and know, through both your own impressions and strong performance reviews, that they value your work, it may be time to ask for a promotion or a transfer to a better position. Be proactive—companies don’t always have upward career tracks, and may not automatically award a promotion unless this is requested.
Inquiry and Networking Letters
Applying to officially advertised positions isn’t the only way to land your dream job. Often opportunities can be discovered through strategic networking; more than one person has been offered a position because they made their availability and interest known to employers who were not actively hiring.
Cover Letter Formats and Templates
Review more examples of professional formats, layouts, and templates to use to apply for jobs, keeping in mind that you should tailor any cover letter template you decide to use as your model to reflect your own circumstances and personality.
Cover Letter Template to Download
Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word) or see below for more examples.
Cover Letter Sample (Text Version)
Joseph Q. Applicant
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345
555-212-1234
josephq@email.com
Jane Smith
Director, Human Resources
Fit Living
123 Business Rd.
Business City, NY 54321
I’m writing to apply for the position of Social Media Manager for Fit Living, as advertised on your website careers page. I have three years of experience as a Social Media Assistant for Young Living, and I believe I am ready to move up to the manager position.
In your job posting, you mention that you want to hire a Social Media Manager who understands the Internet and social media trends. During my time at Young Living, I was given the responsibility of increasing follower numbers on Instagram. I explained to my manager that I would be happy to do so and that I would also work hard to increase follower participation because engagement has become an important metric.
Within six months, I increased our followers by over 50% and increased engagement by 400%. I’m very proud of that accomplishment. Currently, I’m working to build a following with the best influencers in our niche.
When I saw the job opening, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to offer you both my social media marketing skills and people skills. I’ve included my resume so you can learn more about my educational background and all of my work experience. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Cover Letter Examples Listed by Type of Job
Ran Zheng / The Balance
When you are writing cover letters to apply for jobs, it’s essential to know the expectations and standards for a cover letter in your industry. For example, cover letters in academia and education tend to be more conservative than those in the creative arts. Cover letter examples can help you get a sense of what information is most important to include.
Whatever you do, don’t rush writing your cover letters. In one survey, 87% of hiring managers said that they read cover letters and 65% said that cover letters influenced their hiring decision.
4 out of 5 hiring managers prefer letters that were tailored to the specific company and position, rather than a generic version. So, it pays to customize your letter to the industry, company, and job.
Key Takeaways
How To Use Cover Letter Examples
Cover letter examples like the ones below can be a helpful tool—if you use them the right way. Keep the following in mind:
Don’t just copy the sample cover letters. Rather, use examples for inspiration. Scroll through the sections that follow and find the type of cover letter that matches the type of job you’re applying for (the different jobs are categorized by industry).
Pay attention to the letter’s structure. How is information presented in the sample letter? Regardless of your industry, you will likely use the same basic cover letter format. The body of a cover letter is divided into three sections:
As you read the sample letters below, pay attention to how they follow this structure, using their format, specific details, and quantifiable examples to provide evidence for the letter writer’s candidacy.
Emphasize important skills and qualifications. Think about how you will highlight your skills and use the limited space available within your cover letter to share the most important information about your work history and accomplishments.
Your cover letter should highlight the qualifications listed in the job description. This helps demonstrate that you’re a good fit for the position.
Note common phrases. Although you should always personalize your letter, it’s OK to use common expressions to help make your case. For example, when you’re reading samples, you might notice cover letter phrases such as «Thank you for your consideration,» «I look forward to hearing from you,» and «Because of XYZ, I’m a strong candidate for the position.» Use these phrases yourself, as necessary, but always aim to keep your letter genuine.
Cover Letter Examples Listed by Job
Review this list of cover letters for a variety of different professions and types of jobs to use as a starting point for writing your personalized cover letters.
Building Trades
Hiring managers in the building trades seek candidates with experience, credentials, and appropriate certifications. Pay close attention to the qualifications mentioned in the job listing when composing your cover letter. It’s also a good idea to mention a few key construction projects that you’ve contributed to.
Business Administration
Your cover letter will be key to landing any administrative, business, or legal position. These jobs demand writing skills and organizational talents, so a well-written, professionally formatted cover letter is essential to demonstrating your value. You may also want to highlight people skills like teamwork, the ability to multitask, and listening skills.
Communications / Marketing
Review this list of cover letters for a variety of different professions and types of jobs to use as a starting point for writing your own personalized cover letters.
Building Trades: When writing a cover letter for a building trade, it can be quite effective to mention a few key construction projects that you’ve contributed to.
Business Administration: For any administrative, business or legal position, your cover letter will be your strongest demonstration that you possess the writing and organizational talents employers are looking for.
Communications / Marketing: Showcasing your own personal “tone” or “voice” is particularly vital for job candidates in this sector, since most employers will be interested in how you can use language to present a “brand.”
Creative Arts: If you are an artist or photographer, remember to include a link in your cover letter to an online portfolio of your creative work.
Customer / Personal Services: Here is how to write a dynamic cover letter that will catch the interest of employers seeking engaging customer service or personal service providers.
Education: Both cover letters and resumes for people in education and academia tend to be more conservative than those for other industry sectors. In addition to detailing your education and credentials, take the time in your cover letter to comment upon your passion for teaching and learning.
Financial Services: If you are seeking a job in financial services, show off your math and analytical skills by providing a few quantifiable examples (using numbers, percentages, or dollar figures) demonstrating how you’ve structured successful financial portfolios or increased productivity.
Food Services: Here are a few creative examples of cover letters written for both front- and back-of-house roles.
Healthcare / Medical Research: Items to include on healthcare cover letters include training and certifications, technical and procedural competencies, and knowledge of governing regulations.
Information Technology: If you are an IT professional, make sure that your cover letter mentions any and all software and hardware listed as a “qualification” in the job announcement you’re applying for.
Legal / Government / Social Services: Like cover letters in the education sector, those written for jobs in the legal, government, and social service sectors tend to be quite conservative. If you are an attorney or paralegal, stick to a “narrative only” cover letter instead of including bulleted achievements (which works well for other professions but is frowned upon by many legal professionals).
Management / HR: Cover letters for those in management and human resources need to focus upon one’s leadership and organizational talents. Include details about the number of employees you’ve managed, process improvements you’ve implemented, and any specialized Kaizen or other training you’ve completed.
Retail / Sales: As a sales representative, your cover letter is your primary (and best) sales pitch to a potential employer. Use it to demonstrate your enthusiasm, charisma, persuasiveness, and consultative selling skills.
Seasonal / Temp Jobs: Even people seeking summer or temporary work need a well-crafted resume in order to stand out from the crowd. Here are a few examples of how it’s done.
Generic Cover Letter Template
You can use this template as a model to write a cover letter. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.
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Generic Cover Letter Sample
Cover Letter Sample (Text Version)
Maria Chu
344 Chestnut St.
Oceanview, DE 19971
(302) 555-0258
Maria.Chu@email.com
Carrie Hernandez
Human Resources Manager
BestTravel.com
200 Allen St., Ste. 303
Baltimore, MD 21210
I’m writing to you because I’m interested in applying for your open Software Developer position as posted on the careers page of your website, BestTravel.com. I have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, and I have worked with OOP programming languages and PHP/MySQL for the past three years.
I believe I will be an asset to your software development team. I enjoy a challenge and although I can work alone, I prefer to work in a team, which is one reason I want to apply to your company. In addition, while I was in college, I worked for a travel agency, so I have a good understanding of what a travel industry website site needs. Your requirements match my skills. For example:
I’ve attached my resume, so you can see the projects I worked on as well as more details on my experience in software development and a list of my certifications. Feel free to call me at (302)555-0258 or email me at Maria.Chu@email.com. Thank you for your time and consideration.
I would be thrilled to be a part of your team, and I look forward to speaking with you soon.
Maria Chu (signature for hard copy letter)
Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application
Alex Dos Diaz / The Balance
What’s the best way to write a letter to apply for a job? Your letter should detail your specific qualifications for the position and the skills you would bring to the employer. Your job application letter is an opportunity to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experiences. An effective cover letter will enhance your application and increase your chances of landing an interview.
Unless an employer specifically requests a job application letter sent by postal mail, today most cover letters are sent by email or attached as a file in an online application tracking system.
What is an Application Letter?
A letter of application, also known as a cover letter, is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information about your skills and experience to an employer. The letter of application is intended to provide detailed information on why you are are a qualified candidate for the job.
Effective application letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify your most relevant skills.
Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, what makes you a strong candidate, why they should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up
What to Include in Your Cover Letter
As with all cover letters, a job application letter is divided into sections:
Here’s an overview of what to include in a cover letter for a job application.
Tips for Writing a Cover Letter
A cover letter can either help or harm you. To ensure that your application supports rather than detracts from your resume, follow these tips:
Get off to a direct start: In your first paragraph, explain why you are writing. Mention the job title and company name, and also where you came across the job listing. While you can also briefly mention why you are a strong candidate, this section should be short and to-the-point.
Offer something different than what’s in your resume: You can make your language a bit more personal than in your resume bullet points, and you can tell a narrative about your work experience and career.
It’s rare to send an application letter without also sending a resume. Your application letter, therefore, should highlight information that your resume doesn’t.
Make a good case. Your first goal with this letter is to progress to the next step: an interview. Your overarching goal, of course, is to get a job offer. Use your application letter to further both of these causes. Offer details about your experience and background that show why you are a good candidate. How have other jobs prepared you for the position? What would you bring to the position, and to the company? Use this space to emphasize your strengths.
Close with all the important details. Include a thank you at the end of your letter. You can also share your contact information. If you’d like, mention how you will follow up.
Cover Letter Sample and Template
This is a sample cover letter. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for an email sample, and more examples of interview winning cover letters.
Sample Cover Letter Used With a Job Application (Text Version)
John Donaldson
8 Sue Circle
Smithtown, CA 08067
909-555-5555
john.donaldson@emailexample.com
George Gilhooley
Times Union
87 Delaware Road
Hatfield, CA 08065
I am writing to apply for the programmer position advertised in the Times Union. As requested, I enclose a completed job application, my certification, my resume, and three references.
The role is very appealing to me, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education make me a highly competitive candidate for this position. My key strengths that would support my success in this position include:
With a BS degree in Computer Programming, I have a comprehensive understanding of the full lifecycle for software development projects. I also have experience in learning and applying new technologies as appropriate. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.
I can be reached anytime via email at john.donaldson@emailexample.com or by cell phone, 909-555-5555.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.
John Donaldson (signature hard copy letter)
Email Cover Letter Sample
Email Application Letter Example
Dear Hiring Manager,
I’m writing to express my interest in the Web Content Manager position listed on Monster.com. I have experience building large, consumer-focused health-based content sites. While much of my experience has been in the business world, I understand the social value of this sector and I am confident that my business experience will be an asset to your organization.
My responsibilities have included the development and management of: website editorial voice and style; editorial calendars; and the daily content programming and production for various websites.
I have worked closely with healthcare professionals and medical editors to help them to provide the best possible information to a consumer audience of patients. I have also helped physicians to use their medical content to write user-friendly and easily comprehensible text.
Experience has taught me how to build strong relationships with all departments in an organization. I have the ability to work within a team as well as cross-team. I can work with web engineers to resolve technical issues and implement technical enhancements.
I am confident working with development departments to implement design and functional enhancements, and to monitor site statistics and conduct search engine optimization.
Thank you for your consideration.
How to Send an Email Application Letter
If sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title you are applying for in the subject line of the email. Include your contact information in your email signature but don’t list the employer’s contact information.
Skip the date and start your email message with the salutation. Here’s an example of a formatted email cover letter.
More Help and Examples
Follow these guidelines on how to get started writing a job application letter, including more details on what information to put in and what to leave out, how to select an appropriate font size and style, and guidance on letter spacing and formatting.
Review more professionally written cover letter examples for a variety of occupations and jobs.
How To Write a Cover Letter for a Job
Do you need to write a cover letter to apply for a job? In most cases, the answer is yes. Your cover letter may make the difference between obtaining a job interview or having your resume ignored, so it makes good sense to devote the necessary time and effort to writing effective cover letters.
Here’s all the information you need to write a cover letter that will get your job application noticed. Review these tips for what to include in a cover letter, how to format it, and examples of many different professionally written cover letters.
What Is a Cover Letter?
Before you start writing a cover letter, you should familiarize yourself with the document’s purpose. A cover letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience.
The letter provides detailed information on why you are qualified for the job you are applying for. Don’t simply repeat what’s on your resume. Instead, include details on why you’re a strong match for the employer’s job requirements. Think of your cover letter as a sales pitch that will market your credentials and help you get the interview. As such, you want to make sure your cover letter makes the best impression on the person who is reviewing it.
When to Write a Cover Letter
A cover letter typically accompanies each resume you send out. Employers use cover letters as a way to screen applicants for available jobs and to determine which candidates they would like to interview. If an employer requires a cover letter, it will be listed in the job posting. Even if the company doesn’t ask for one, you may want to include one anyway.
It will show that you have put some extra effort into your application.
If your cover letter stands out from the crowd of applicants, it can be the key to securing an interview.
How to Get Your Cover Letter Noticed
What’s the best way to get your cover letter noticed when the employer has to look through a pile of them? First of all, take the time to write a good one. Some hiring managers expect to receive a cover letter. In those cases, it should be mentioned in the job posting.
Even if it’s not required, though, a well-written cover letter gives you the opportunity to sell your credentials to the company and to show them why you’d be a good fit for the job.
A CareerBuilder survey reports that 40% of employers are more likely to pay attention when a cover letter is included with an application. Another CareerBuilder survey notes that 10% of hiring managers wouldn’t hire a candidate who didn’t include a cover letter.
Watch Now: 7 Ways Your Cover Letter Can Get You Hired
How to Write a Cover Letter
There are some quick and easy steps that you can take to write a cover letter that will impress the hiring manager. Take a look at these tips and see which ones will work best for you. Even a few small changes can make a big difference.
Types of Cover Letters
Before you start writing a cover letter, be sure that you’ve chosen the right type of letter. The style will be different depending on whether you’re writing a letter to send or upload with a resume, inquiring about job openings, or mentioning a referral.
There are three general types of cover letters. Choose a type of letter that matches your reason for writing.
When you are applying for a job that has been posted by a company that’s hiring, you will be using the «application letter» style.
Cover Letter Writing Guidelines
Here’s an outline of the items that should be included in every cover letter. Before you get started, it can be helpful to review some cover letter samples, just so you have a visual of how everything fits on the page.
These cover letter examples, both written and email, are designed for a variety of different types of job applications and employment inquiries. Do be sure to take the time to personalize your letter, so it’s a strong endorsement of your ability to do the job for which you’re applying.
Heading
A cover letter should begin with both your and the employer’s contact information (name, address, phone number, email), followed by the date. If this is an email rather than an actual letter, include your contact information at the end of the letter, after your signature. Your contact information should include:
First and Last Name
Street Address (optional)
City, State Zip (optional)
Phone
Email
Salutation
Begin your cover letter salutation with «Dr./Mr./Ms. Last Name.» If you are unsure if your contact is male or female, you can write out their full name. If you do not know the employer’s name, simply write, «Dear Hiring Manager.» This is better than the generic and formal, «To Whom It May Concern.»
Review information on how to choose the right cover letter greeting to select one that works for the job and company you’re applying to.
Introduction
Begin your introduction by stating what job you are applying for. Explain where you heard about the job, particularly if you heard about it from a contact associated with the company. Briefly mention how your skills and experience match the company and/or position; this will give the employer a preview of the rest of your letter. Your goal in the introduction is to get the reader’s attention. To get started, see examples of engaging opening sentences for cover letters.
A referral can put in a good word and help you get hired. It’s worth taking a few minutes to see if you know anyone who can refer you to the job. Check your LinkedIn network, your college alumni network, and your Facebook friends to identify anyone who works at the company who could refer you. If you find someone, here’s how to ask them for a referral.
Body of the Letter
In a paragraph or two, explain why you are interested in the job and why you make an excellent candidate for the position. Mention specific qualifications listed in the job posting, and explain how you meet those qualifications. Do not simply restate your resume, but provide specific examples that demonstrate your abilities.
Remember, actions speak louder than words, so don’t just «tell» the reader that you are, for example, a great team player with strong communication skills and excellent attention to detail. Instead, use tangible examples from your work experience to «show» these traits in action. Here’s more information on what to include in the body section of a cover letter.
Closing
In the closing section of your cover letter, restate how your skills make you a strong fit for the company and/or position. If you have room (remember, just like your resume, your cover letter should be no longer than one page—here’s more information on how long a cover letter should be)—you can also discuss why you would like to work at that specific company.
State that you would like the opportunity to interview or discuss employment opportunities. Explain what you will do to follow-up, and when you will do it. Thank the employer for his/her consideration.
Signature
Use a complimentary close, and then end your cover letter with your signature, handwritten, followed by your typed name. If this is an email, simply include your typed name, followed by your contact information, after the complimentary close.
How to Format Your Cover Letter
Cover Letter Length. Cover letters don’t need to be long. In fact, all a lengthy letter will do is make the reader’s eyes glaze over. A few paragraphs are plenty, and your letter should never be longer than a single page. If your letter is too long, don’t use a smaller font. Edit and cut words instead.
Cover Letter Font Options. Your cover letter should be formatted like a professional business letter. The font should match the font you used on your resume, and should be simple and easy to read. Pick a font that’s easy to read. Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, and other similar non-script, sans-serif fonts work well for body text.
Font Size. Size is important too—make your text too small, and the hiring manager may not want to make an effort to read it. Depending on the font, somewhere between 10- and 12-point font size is usually best for readability.
Page Margin Settings. Standard margins are 1″ on the top, bottom, and left and right sides of the page. You can adjust them as necessary to make more room on the page.
Letter Spacing. Add a space between the header, salutation, each paragraph, the closing, and your signature. You can reduce the font and margin sizes to keep your document on a single page, but do be sure to leave enough white space for your letter to be easy to read.
Follow these cover letter formatting guidelines to ensure your letters match the professional standards expected by the hiring managers who review applications. Follow these guidelines if you are sending your cover letter by email.
Customize Your Cover Letter
It is very important that your cover letter be tailored to each position you are applying to. This means more than just changing the name of the company in the body of the letter.
Each cover letter you write should be customized to include:
Show the Employer That You’re a Fit
One of the most important steps to writing a cover letter that stands out is showing the company that you’re a professional candidate who meets the job requirements. When you do so, you’ll make it easier for the hiring manager to decide that you’d be a candidate worth interviewing.
Match Your Cover Letter to Your Resume. Choose the same font for both your resume and cover letter, and your application will look polished and professional. Don’t mix and match fonts. It’s fine to have a different font for your page headers, but be consistent with the font you use in your cover letter and resume content.
Match Your Skills With the Job Qualifications. One of the most important ways to get your cover letter noticed is to make a clear match between the job requirements listed in the help wanted ad and your credentials. Don’t expect the employer to figure it out. If you do it for them, it will up your chances of getting an interview.
Highlight Your Most Relevant Skills. Don’t use your cover letter to rehash and repeat everything in your resume. This is an opportunity to focus on the specific skills and attributes you have that will benefit the employer. Focus your letter on the top few skills that best qualify you for the job.
What Not to Include in a Cover Letter
You want your cover letter to stand out for the right reasons. There are some things you shouldn’t include in your cover letter if you want to make a good impression. It’s not helpful to include personal information or mention how you left your last job. Stay focused on the job at hand and your qualifications for it.
Finally, never include salary requirements unless the employer specifically requests that you do. Even then, be careful how you respond. You don’t want to knock yourself out of contention for the job because you’re asking for too much money. You also don’t want to get an offer for less than you’re worth.
Make Sure Your Cover Letter Is Perfect
Before you send your letter, you should review every detail carefully. Even a small typo could be enough to take your application out of consideration for the job.
Check for Typos and Grammatical Errors
Don’t click send or upload your letter before you have taken the time to proofread it thoroughly. Read your letter out loud, and you may pick up some more mistakes. You can even try reading it backward to really focus your attention.
Include an Email Signature
When you email a cover letter, be sure to include a signature with your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile URL if you have one. That will make it easy for the recruiter to get in touch with you.
Email It to Yourself
There’s one more thing to do before you send your letter: Email a copy to yourself for a final check. Make sure the formatting is just as you want it—and proofread it one more time.
Cover Letter Samples
Printed or Uploaded Cover Letter Sample
Liz Johnson
60 Main Street, Apt. 2C
Centerville, NH 03071
203-555-4343
liz.johnson@email.com
Joseph Chang
ABC Corp
100 Business Road, Ste 100
Centerville, NH 03071
I’m writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the role of senior tech support specialist at ABC Corp. I have 10 years of experience in tech support roles, including my current job at XYZ LLC, and I’d love to put my skills to work for ABC.
In addition, I have the following qualifications:
In the job listing on Indeed, you mentioned that you were specifically looking for someone who was willing to work evening shifts and be on call over the weekend. I worked evenings and weekends in my previous position as Lead Help Desk Technician at LMK Inc., and I enjoy the schedule. (Plus, that’s when the really interesting calls come in!)
I’d love to talk to you about the position and how my skills and experience can help make your team’s job easier. I’m available via cellphone at 203-555-4343 or email at liz.johnson@email.com.
Liz Johnson (signature hard copy letter)
Email Cover Letter Sample
Subject: Project Coordinator Position
I am a project manager with experience managing complex projects across diverse settings. My project management skills are complemented by customer service experience and data analysis expertise, skills that I believe would make me an excellent fit for the Project Coordinator role at Cumbria Holdings.
Most recently, I was responsible for project management across all aspects of the business. This included the development of programming initiatives, analyzing and managing data, managing market research endeavors, conceptualizing and implementing marketing projects, amongst other activities. I relied on my strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational abilities to oversee numerous moving parts internally, while also managing internal and external relationships along with project budget and finances.
I was also responsible for customer service and client communication. As this was a fast-paced environment that required me to interact with numerous stakeholders and manage numerous projects simultaneously, I developed strong time-management skills. I am highly skilled in Excel and data analysis, especially as it relates to project reporting. I am now looking for a role where I can build on my project management skills.
Thank you so much for your consideration for this position! I look forward to hearing from you. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions at all.
More Cover Letter Examples & Templates
Need more inspiration for your own cover letters? Review these cover letter examples and downloadable templates for many different types of jobs.
How to Write a Cover Letter in 2022 | Beginner’s Guide
After weeks of heavy job search, you’re almost there!
You’ve perfected your resume.
You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.
You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.
But then, before you can send your application and call it a day, you remember that the job ad requires a cover letter.
Now you’re stuck wondering how to write a cover letter.
Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think.
In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.
So, let’s get started with the basics!
What is a Cover Letter? (and Why It’s Important)
A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application (alongside your CV or Resume).
Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long.
A good cover letter can spark the HR manager’s interest and get them to read your resume.
A bad cover letter, on the other hand, might mean that your application is going directly to the paper shredder. So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.
How does a good cover letter look, you might ask. Well, here’s an example:
Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you don’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume.
If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, writing all this might seem pretty tough. After all, you’re probably not a professional writer.
The thing is, though, you don’t need to be creative, or even any good at writing. All you have to do is follow a tried-and-tested format:
Or, here’s what this looks like in practice:
How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter (And Get Hired!)
Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, we’re going to guide you through the process of writing a cover letter step by step.
A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.
So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, visual template?
You can simply pick one of our hand-picked cover letter templates, and you’ll be all set in a jiffy!
As a bonus, our AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter on the go.
As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with a Contact Information section:
Here, you want to include all essential information, including:
In certain cases, you might also consider adding:
And here’s what you shouldn’t mention in your header:
Once you’ve properly listed your contact information, you need to start writing the cover letter contents.
The first thing to do here is to address the cover letter to the hiring manager.
That’s right, the hiring manager! Not the overly popular “Dear Sir or Madam.” You want to show your future boss that you did your research and are really passionate about working with their team.
No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes to get hired in any of them.
So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager? There are several ways to do this.
The simplest option is to look up the head of the relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably Head of Communications or Chief Communications Office.
So, you do a quick lookup on LinkedIn:
And voila! You have your hiring manager.
Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of a server. In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager.”
If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.
Here are several other greetings you could use:
First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.
Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.
So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.
The #1 problem we see with most cover letter opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Most of them look something like this..
See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say pretty much anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.
Do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.
Instead, you want to start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.
So now, let’s make our previous example shine:
See the difference between the two examples? If you were the hiring manager, which sales manager would you hire, Jonathan or Michael?
Now that we’ve covered the introduction, let’s talk about the body of your cover letter. This part is split into two paragraphs: the first is for explaining why you’re the perfect person for the job, and the latter is for proving that you’re a good fit for the company.
So, let’s get started.
This is where you show off your professional skills and convince the HR manager that you’re a better fit for the job than all the other applicants.
For the sake of the example, let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. You scan the job ad and see that the top requirements are:
Now, in this section, you need to discuss how you fulfill these requirements. So, here’s how that would look for our example:
Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:
Are you a student applying for your first internship? You probably don’t have a lot of work experience to show off in this section. Learn how to write an internship cover letter here.
Well, no. You’re not quite there yet.
The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.
After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary.
Meaning, you also need to convince the HR manager that you’re really passionate about working with them.
How do you do this? Well, as a start, you want to do some research about the company. You want to know things like:
So, get to Googling. Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or somewhere around the web.
Then, you need to figure out what you like about the company and turn that into text.
Let’s say, for example, you’re passionate about their product and you like the culture of innovation / independent work in the organization.
You’d write something like:
I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2 were real game changers for the device.
I really admire how Company XYZ thrives for excellence for all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone that thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I and Company XYZ will be a great match.
What you don’t want to do here is be super generic for the sake of having something to write. Most job seekers tend to mess this one up. Let’s take a look at a very common example we tend to see (way too often):
I’d love to work for Company XYZ because of its culture of innovation. I believe that since I’m super creative, I’d be a good fit for the company. The company values of integrity and transparency really vibe with me.
See what’s wrong here? The example doesn’t really say anything about the company. “Culture of Innovation” is something most companies claim to have.
Any hiring manager that reads this will see through the fluff.
So, make sure to do a lot of research and come up with good reasons why you’re applying.
Finally, it’s time to finish up your cover letter and write the conclusion.
In the final paragraph, you want to:
And now, let’s turn this into a practical example:
So to wrap it all up, thanks for looking into my application. I hope I can help Company X make the most out of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I’d love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your facebook marketing goals.
Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.
Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions to a cover letter:
And we’re finally done! Before sending off the cover letter, make sure to proofread it with software like Grammarly, or maybe even get a friend to review it for you.
Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?
Do you address the right person? I.e. hiring manager in the company / your future direct supervisor
Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader’s attention?
Do you successfully convey that you’re the right pro for the job?
Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?
Did you finalize the conclusion with a call to action?
Did you use the right formal closure for the cover letter?
5+ Cover Letter Examples
Need some inspiration? Read on to learn about some of the best cover letter examples we’ve seen (for different fields).
College Student Cover Letter Example
Middle Management Cover Letter Example
Career Change Cover Letter Example
Management Cover Letter Example
Senior Executive Cover Letter Example
Want to discover more examples AND learn what makes them stand out? Check out our guide to cover letter examples.
Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application is for naught.
After all, a cover letter is just an introduction. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression, but flopping at the end because of a mediocre resume.
. But don’t you worry, we’ve got you covered on that end, too.
Or, if you’re already an expert, just pick one of our resume templates and get started.
Key Takeaways
Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:
At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve, every step of the way! Follow our blog to stay up to date with the industry-leading advice. Or, check out some of our top guides…
The 12 Best Cover Letter Examples To Nail Your Next Job Application
I’m very excited to show you how to write a compelling cover letter. The one that can help your personality shine through while, communicating your skills, educational background and all the important achievements in just one page.
I hope that you will consider my advice and learn a few handy tricks from the cover letters examples we wrote for you.
Regards,
Freesumes Team
For the record, that wasn’t one of our cover letter examples. Just a quick primer to get you in that letter-writing mood. Ready to get one step close to mastering this skill?
Cover Letter Layout To Follow
Compelling cover letters – the one HR folks exchange with one another – have one thing in common: they follow the same structure and layout.
That’s the first thing you need to master. You have just one shot to impress the same employer and you don’t want to lower your chance by making some basic mistakes in formatting. So let’s take a closer look at the anatomy of successful cover letters.
Header section: This one should take approximately 1/5 th of your page and include your name and current position, e.g. Jane Smith, Chief Accountant. You can also add your headshot at the top left corner if you prefer (as an example above) to make your letter more personal. List your contact information just under your name and title.
Opening section: This one should be formal. Add a date and type the full address of your employer in the following format:
To Name
Title
Company
Address
City, State Zip Code
This should be single-spaced and left justified. If you don’t know the full employer’s information, you can skip this. Though it’s advised to research those details in advance – this will show that you did your “homework” and didn’t just file some generic letters to a dozen companies in your industry.
Salutation: As a rule of thumb, you should use the formal “Dear, [Mr/Ms Surname]”. Though if you are applying to some hip, modern company you can replace the old-fashioned “dear”, with a simple “Good day” or “Hello” or just “[Name Surname]” combo.
Opening paragraph: This one’s pretty standard as well: state what position you are applying for, how you heard about the opening and why you are a solid candidate. You can make the last statement more attention-grabbing to entice the recipient to read on.
Body of your letter: This can take up to 2-3 paragraphs. Use the space to explain what makes you the perfect match for the announced position:
The second body paragraph should speak about why the company is the perfect match for you:
Closing paragraph: Wrap up your pitch, thank the employer for considering you and include a call-to-action. Check our previous post for more tips on how to close a cover letter with a bang.
Formal closure: Bade your goodbyes with a “Kind regards, [Your Name Surname] ”. If you are sending your cover letter the old-fashioned way by mail, you should also add a handwritten signature after that.
Top 3 Cover Letter Writing Styles
Sample Classic Cover Letter
For when your goal is to get that coveted position in a Fortune-500 corporate company or it’s smaller sized counterpart with equally big love for formalities, stick with a very formal, utterly professional cover letter.
This style works best for positions in big business, finance, law, government, retail, and education.
Dear Mr Thompson,I’m writing in response to the position of a Senior Associate Attorney in Divorce Law Firm, advertised on LawCrossing.com. Enclosed you will find my CV.
As an Associate Attorney at FirmX, I was effectively handling probate administration, estate planning and guardianship cases for the past five years. I successfully won 90% of trials for my clients and negotiated favorable settlement agreements on behalf of my clients.
As a former Court Facilitator, Guardian Ad Litem in the state of Colorado, I also possess deep knowledge in family, juvenile and criminal law. My background in court has prepared me for serving to the clients with great compassion and integrity. My colleagues and bosses have noted on my exceptional negotiation skills, as well as great attention to details, discretion and analytical skills.
In 2015, I have re-joined by former alma mater (the University of Northern Colorado) as a part-time Adjunct Professor. I know that your Big Law Firm is well vested in promoting intellectual vigor among younger staff and future employees through mentorship programs, and I would be honored to join in as a mentor if given a chance.
Thank you for taking the time to consider my candidacy and I would welcome the chance to have an in-person discussion with you concerning my application.
Speculative Cover Letter Example
Did you know that around 80% of jobs are never advertised publicly? And yet, they are still getting filled in by the savvy candidates. The “Hidden Job Market” isn’t as mythical as Atlántida – it has been effectively thriving since the 1990s.
“Hidden job market” encompasses all the opportunities filled in through employee referral programs, networking and speculative applications. Tapping into this cloaked area of job search means that you won’t rub with as many elbows as when applying for publicly advertised openings.
And here are your tips for finding those hidden opportunities:
Here’s a sample speculative cover letter you can file along with your application. Depending on the company/industry, such letters can vary in the degree of formality. This sample cover letter is modeled for a modern tech company.
Dear ‘Company Name’ IT Team,
I’ve read on your corporate blog that you have recently completed your migration to a microservices architecture (congrats!).
I believe that you may be now in need of experienced DevOps engineers to help you orchestrate your systems and fine-tune the continuous deployment pipeline. That’s why I am reaching out to propose my candidacy.
In my current role as Remote DevOps Engineer in e-commerce company XXX, I have managed to accomplish the following:
I have a strong familiarity with the following tools and technologies:
I’m also flexible to pick up new skills and eager to collaborate with others on your teams. I’m deeply impressed with how you managed remote work at your organization and foster collaboration within a globally distributed team.
Enclosing my CV for your consideration as well.
Regards,
Dan Bloome
Creative Cover Letter Example
In some industries, being incredibly formal can work against you. Most startups or creative agencies will find the standard cover letter a tad bit too snotty and personality-less. Even the traditional companies have a soft spot for unusual applications.
The viral cover letter example below has recently landed a great internship with a very prestigious Wall Street firm:
The applicant was brutally honest instead of being painfully polite and superficially flattering.
Want to pull a similar stunt? Here’s a less non-conformist, but equally engaging and creative cover letter example. But do proceed with caution! Such letters may not work every time, with every employer.
I think words are boring.
Puzzled to hear that from a copywriter?Well, words alone are boring.
When you just paste some random words to your landing page – no one’s buying from you. No one’s even listening to you. And that’s a bad thing for business (#obvious).
I know how to find the words that will stop your customers right there on the spot, make them scroll back, rub their eye…and reach for their credit card.
So hi, I’m James, a conversion copywriter.
I might have spoken to you earlier. If you browsed SaaS Company website or read CoolCompany blog the other day, that was all me, watching you from the other side of the screen.
I also did some okay writing for the following companies:
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
I don’t just write. I also talk – to your customers, your team and (sometimes in my sleep) – to capture that “special something” that makes everyone tick about your product. I also have a deep love for numbers and get way too excited by heatmaps (my girlfriend’s not thrilled, so please don’t tell her I mentioned this!).
So what do you say? Shall we talk about how I can help your brand develop that new unique voice and drive more sales through data-backed copy?
Regards,
James Knight
P.S. I noticed one major gap on your Service Page Name. Doing a few quick improvements (copy- and design-wise) can increase your conversions by 10-15%.
Cover Letter Examples By Professions
Cover Letter Example for Accounting
[View cover letter]
Cover Letter Example for Customer Service
[View cover letter]
Cover Letter Example for an Engineering Role
[View cover letter]
Cover Letter Example for Internship
[View cover letter]
Cover Letter Example for Marketing
[View cover letter]
Cover Letter Example for Receptionist
[View cover letter]
Cover Letter Example for Sales
[View cover letter]
Cover Letter Example for Social Worker
[View cover letter]
Cover Letter Example for Teachers
[View cover letter]
Final Tip
No matter which format you choose to use, it’s alright to be flexible. Don’t follow the same structure or layout to the last T. Remove paragraphs as needed, experiment with different degrees of formality and don’t forget to customize each letter for each job you are applying for. Hiring managers can sense a generic cover letter a mile away. So you definitely do not want to eschew your chance for landing a job by forgetting to change something as basic as the company name or address!
Author
Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice. more
15 Cover Letter Templates to Perfect Your Next Job Application
Save time using these free cover letter templates.
Are cover letters necessary? I’m not in HR, but I’ve been approached by applicants who wondered whether their cover letter would actually be read. My answer is one not many of them wanted to hear: «sometimes.» Sometimes it will be read. Other times, you can get away with just sending in your resume — like when you network your way into applying for a position.
The truth is, you can’t really predict on a case-by-case basis — and you’re better safe than sorry. For the most part, having a cover letter will give you an upper hand in ways your resume doesn’t. It allows you to show off your writing skills, provide details that you couldn’t fit on your resume, demonstrate your passion, and show your willingness to put in as much time and effort as possible.
If you’ve ever rolled your eyes or balked at an application that required a cover letter, this guide is for you. We’ll go over how to write a cover letter and provide cover letter templates to help you perfect your own.
Application Letter
An application letter is a written document addressed to an employer by a job applicant, explaining why they’re interested in and qualified for an open position. More commonly known as a cover letter, this document can come in the form of an email, MS Word document, or similar application template offered by the employer.
Seems fairly basic, right? Cover letters can hold different levels of importance to an employer depending on the industry you’re in and the job you’re applying for. According to a CareerBuilder survey, 49% of recruiters say sendign a cover letter along with your resume boosts your chance of landing the role.
If you do plan to write a cover letter, keep in mind there are certain qualities it should have that are not included in the definition above.
What to Include in a Cover Letter
So, what should you include? We’ll let the 11 templates below this list do most of the talking. No matter which one you download, pay attention to the following elements — all of which should shine through in the letter you send to your future manager.
5 Free Cover Letter Templates
Fill out this form to access your templates.
1. Contact Information
Cover letters shouldn’t just carry your contact information, but also that of the company to which you’re applying. Contact info includes your phone number, email address, and any social media accounts you’re willing to share and receive connections to.
Home addresses aren’t required, but they can be a helpful reassurance to the employer that you already live nearby and would have no trouble coming into the office.
Avoid offering phone numbers, email addresses, or actual addresses that belong to your current employer. Using your personal Gmail address over your work email, for example, ensures your correspondence with recruiters remains separate from all of your current work communication.
2. A Personal Address Line
For as often as you see «to whom it may concern» at the top of cover letters today, do your best to avoid writing this exhausted line.
Address lines that specify a person or company grab your reader’s attention much more quickly, and show the employer that you’ve taken the time to tailor your application letter to them. Don’t have the name of the hiring manager? «Employers at [company name]» will do just fine.
3. A Hook
A «hook» is a clever introduction that «hooks» your reader into wanting to learn more. Think about yourself as a job candidate — what makes you unique? What about your career might a recruiter be intrigued by that you can package into an interesting first sentence?
4. Why You’re Qualified
It’s a no-brainer that you should summarize your professional experience in your cover letter. However, today’s best applications describe why this experience qualifies the applicant for the job they’re applying for. For example, don’t just state that you spent three years writing for a company blog. Explain that this type of work lends itself to managing your new potential employer’s content calendar every week.
5. General Knowledge of the Business
Grammatical errors could mean your application is thrown in the trash, but that’s not the only thing that could get your letter tossed aside. Using a generic «one-size-fits-all» cover letter — especially if you forget to change the name of the company — will also hurt your chances of landing an interview.
So, if you take the time to write a cover letter, take the time to comment on the business itself. Why are you applying to this company? What about their business stuck out to you as a professional?
Now, let’s take a look at an example cover letter, what makes it effective, along with 11 templates you can download or draw inspiration from.
Cover Letter Example
The example above illustrates how to write a marketing cover letter using the elements we listed.
Besides the contact information and the address line, the first few paragraphs explain why the candidate is qualified for the position. This example uses specific data to show why they would be a good fit.
Additionally, in the second to last paragraph, the candidate discusses why they’re interested in the specific company, demonstrating general knowledge of the business.
By combining all the elements to a cover letter, this is a great example to use for inspiration.
14 Free Cover Letter Templates for Your Next Job Application
Template 1: Basic
The example above is a basic (but great) cover letter. The numbered sections are explained in more detail below.
1. Header
The level of formality your header has will depend on the company to which you apply. If you’re applying to a formal business, it’s important to use a formal header to open your cover letter, like in the sample above. Put your address, the date, and the company’s address. But if you’re applying to a company that isn’t as formal, you don’t need to include yours and the company’s addresses. You can still include the date, though.
2. Greeting
Using «To Whom It May Concern» is okay, but you may want to take the time to research the name of the recruiter or hiring manager online. If you do your research and aren’t confident you found the right name, then you should definitely use the generic greeting — but if you are sure, then it shows you put in the effort to find their name and it will catch the recruiter’s eye.
If you have the recruiter’s name, do you greet them by their full name, or by their courtesy title (i.e. Mr., Ms., or Mrs.)? Similar to the header, it depends on the company’s level of formality. If you’re applying to a corporate business, you may want to consider using «Mr. Snaper» instead of «Jon Snaper.» If you’re applying to a start-up or a business with a more casual culture, you can use «Jon Snaper,» as shown in the example.
3. Introduction
Your opening paragraph should, in 1-3 sentences, state why you’re excited to apply and what makes you the perfect candidate. Get right to the point, and don’t worry about explaining where you found the posting or who you know at the company. This isn’t a place to go into detail about why you’re a great candidate — that’s for the second paragraph. Here, simply list a few key reasons in one sentence to set up the rest of your letter. Keep in mind that the recruiter may cross-reference your cover letter with your resume, so make sure the two sync up.
4. Paragraph 2: Why You’re a Great Fit for the Job
Next, sell yourself and your experience by choosing one or two concrete examples that show why you’re a great fit for the position. What did you do at a previous company that gave you relevant experience? Which projects have you worked on that would benefit the new company? How will your prior experience help this company grow? Stay humble in your explanation of credentials while still showing that you would be an asset to the team. Use this paragraph to show you’re genuinely excited and interested in the position.
5. Third Paragraph: Why the Company Is a Great Fit for You
While it’s certainly important you’re a good fit for the job, it’s also important that the company is a good fit for you. «A cover letter typically describes why you’re great for a company — but how will you benefit from getting hired?» asks former HubSpot Team Development Manager Emily MacIntyre. «We want to know why our company appeals to you, and how it will be a mutually beneficial working relationship.»
In the third paragraph, show you’re serious about growing and developing your career at this new company. What impresses and excites you about the company? Is there something that you feel strongly about that aligns with the company’s goals? For example, the candidate in the sample letter used this space to show his personal commitment to environmental causes aligns with the company’s green initiatives.
6. Strong Closer and Signature
Don’t get lazy in the final few sentences of your cover letter — it’s important to finish strong. Be straightforward about your interest and enthusiasm about the new position, and tell them you’re available to talk about the opportunity at any time. Be sure to include your phone number and email address. At this point, the ball is (rightly) in the recruiter’s court to decide how to follow up.
Last but certainly not least, thank them for their time and consideration. Use a formal sign-off like «Best,» «All the best,» or «Sincerely,» and finish by typing out your full name. You don’t need to sign it with a pen.
Template 2: Data-Driven Marketing Cover Letter
Get it here.
When applying to a data-driven position, it might be tempting to inject your cover letter with, well, the data to describe what you’ve done for other employers. But in an application letter — particularly for the marketing industry — how you convey this data is just as important as the data itself.
The cover letter template above, which we created here at HubSpot, can help you present the data that’s most important to you as a candidate such that it’ll matter to your future employer.
Template 3: Straight-to-the-Point Cover Letter
Get it here.
Harvard Business Review contributor David Silverman hailed the above cover letter example as «The Best Cover Letter I Ever Received.» For context, Silverman believes there are only a handful of times when writing a cover letter is actually necessary:
Under those three circumstances, a straight-to-the-point cover letter like the one above could be your best bet. Because it’s so concise, however, make a point to add your own letterhead above the message itself. It might be easy for a recruiter to sift through a short and sweet cover letter like the one above, but it’s just as easy for it to get lost in the shuffle of their application list without a unique design or format.
Template 4: Referral Cover Letter
Get it here.
Just because a friend or colleague recommended you for a job doesn’t mean the company is all set to hire you. Therefore, the cover letter template above is written specifically for referrals. We made this one here at HubSpot. Download it here (it comes with four other cover letter templates, too).
As you can see in the picture above, the first paragraph of the cover letter is dedicated entirely to acknowledging the circumstances of your applying: You know someone who works there — no harm in that. But there might be harm in not mentioning it to the hiring manager. Telling the reader about your connection at the company shows you’re aware and confident of the actions you take to get the opportunities you’re interested in.
Ultimately, it’s better than the recruiter hearing about your employee connection from somebody else.
As for the rest of the cover letter, treat your message the same way you would if you had applied with no connection from within. Your skills and successes are no less important because of your internal referral.
Template 5: Photo Letterhead Cover Letter
Get it here.
The cover letter template above was designed by Microsoft Office, and as comprehensive as it looks, it’s completely free to download and modify.
Template 6: Digital Creative Cover Letter
Get it here.
This sixth template is perfect for the applicant who wants to emphasize the many different digital channels they areon. This template goes well with a resume of the same format.
As you personalize this letter with your own experience, make note of the social networks and industry software included in this template. You’ll see there’s additional space along the top to add your LinkedIn and personal website to fill with your own information.
You can improve upon this template by formatting your most important highlights and accomplishments with bullet points. This will make the document easier to read for the hiring manager and emphasizes the value you provide.
Template 7: Marketing Manager Cover Letter
Get it here.
Our seventh cover letter comes from Monster.com. This cover letter, shown above, is focused specifically on a marketing role.
Notice how the writer includes references to important marketing metrics and terminology. If you’re applying to a data-driven role, you might not want to fill the page with a story of your experience in paragraph form, like Template 1 does at the beginning of this article. Instead, consider highlighting three (or four, or five) of your successes that you believe the hiring manager would resonate most with, in bulleted form.
As a marketing professional, breaking up your letter with bulleted details like the ones above shows a respect for the hiring manager’s limited time — a mentality that all marketers must understand when communicating with a brand’s audience.
Template 8: Career Day Follow-Up Cover Letter
Get it here.
This is a unique kind of cover letter from Princeton University.
LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Monster, and Indeed might take the lion’s share of your job searches online, but still some employment opportunities come out of a trade show, job fair, or similar networking event. For those occurrences, you have the follow-up cover letter template above.
This cover letter has everything you need to help an employer recall a conversation you had with him/her at a career fair. As you can see in the second paragraph, the letter is particularly useful to people who are about to graduate college.
Template 9: Logo and Watermarked Cover Letter
Get it here.
Here’s another cover letter template from Microsoft Office. This one has a light touch of color in the design just above the letterhead, but make no mistake — the template caters to any professional looking to make a good first impression on their future employer.
Don’t let the logo space on the top-right of the page confuse you. This can be the logo of the company to which you’re applying — to quickly get the attention of the recruiter — or your own logo. Perhaps you freelance on the side or simply like branding yourself. This cover letter template is meant for customization.
Template 10: Data Scientist Cover Letter
Get it here.

The text emphasizes how the applicant’s academic research and projects makes them an ideal candidate for the position. The format is also simple enough to submit as a pdf, as text in an email message or an application text box.
Template 11: Business Cover Letter
Get it here.
The cover letter template above is perfect for entry- and mid-level marketers who want to show a little extra professionalism in their opening note to a potential employer.
The multi-colored header (you can change the color if you wish) shows just the right amount of creativity and can go quite well with a resume of the same style. If you don’t have enough experience to fill the entire page, don’t worry. Feel free to write to a length you think is representative of who you are and what the hiring manager wants to see.
No matter how long your final cover letter is, the above template is your opportunity to show your attention to detail — from your contact information in the top header, to the personalized address line where you can include the name of the hiring manager. Like we said, «to whom it may concern» is pretty outdated, anyway.
Template 12: Entry-Level Cover Letter
Get it here.
The cover letter template above, written by HubSpot, is specifically designed for entry-level applicants.
When you only have a few years experience, it’s important to display how you gained your skills and what you learned from your education or internships. Additionally, it’s important to mention why you want to work at the company you’re applying to.
No matter your experience, the template above will help you decide what skills you want to highlight and flesh out in your cover letter.
You can download it here (it comes with four other cover letter templates, too).
Template 13: Healthcare Cover Letter
Get it here.
Additionally, phrases like «I’d love to put my skills to work for your clinic» and «Please contact me at your convenience and let me know how I can help you» focus on what the business will gain as a result of hiring the applicant, rather than what the applicant is looking to gain.
Template 14: Freelance Cover Letter
Get it here.
If you’re looking for freelance work, your biggest goal is to get your strengths across quickly, so busy clients won’t pass by your cover letter entirely. Additionally, if you’re sending out multiple cover letters to different clients, you’ll want to target each one to that client’s unique goals.
For instance, if one client is looking for SEO-optimized content related to marketing, you’ll want to highlight past experience writing marketing content; this will change if, for instance, the client is looking for fitness content.
For this reason, it’s a good idea to structure your cover letter so you start with a) past credentials or references, and b) bullet-point information related to the client’s goal, as shown in the cover letter above.
Template 15: Director Cover Letter
Get it here.

In the cover letter above, the candidate does a good job outlining how she succeeded in a leadership role previously: «For the past five years, I have successfully developed and maintained all data systems, including schedules and records for a business employing more than 100 people.»
You’ll want to demonstrate how your skills align with a Director position — both through organization and leadership — and, when possible, where you received recognition for your hard work (i.e. «I earned an award for Most Valuable Administrative Staff Member»).
Write a Winning Cover Letter
Writing a cover letter is easier said than done. Don’t hesitate to spend a lot of time writing and editing it. Or, ask a friend or family member to read it over and give you feedback. If the recruiter does end up reading it, you’ll be thankful you did.
Editor’s note: This post was originally published in November 2014 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.
Originally published Aug 10, 2022 7:00:00 AM, updated August 10 2022
Top Cover Letter Examples in 2022 [For All Professions]
Cover Letter Examples for 2022
No matter what stage you are at in your career, a cover letter is an important document to demonstrate your experience and fit for the position you are applying. It’s a way to explain specific scenarios and call out essential skills that aren’t already covered in your resume.
When crafting the content for your cover letter, it’s critical that you keep it concise, even leveraging bullet points to point out key messages. The hiring manager does not have time to sit down and read a memoir, they may only have a few short minutes to review your application in its entirety.
When you are a recent graduate applying for an internship or early in your career, your cover letter should contain appropriate scenarios that demonstrate your ability to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Refer to a time you took the lead on an important project or how you introduced a new system to improve productivity. Once you get more experience, your cover letter is a great place to call out key statistics and sales growth numbers, because you’ll have more measurable results to draw upon.
Your cover letter is your opportunity to set yourself apart from the competition. Use this coveted space to demonstrate your experience, knowledge, and performance. Leave the hiring manager with no doubt that you could perform the job duties at the highest level.
To help you craft the best cover letter, we’re providing you with some examples to review. Let the content inspire your own cover letter. Think about the most important things you have done in your career thus far and use these experiences to your advantage in your cover letter.
It’s essential that you customize each cover letter to the job that you are applying. After all, each position values different experiences and responsibilities, and you will want to showcase different situations and career highlights based on the specific job you are seeking. This will only increase your chances of securing that coveted interview.
Follow these basic guidelines and get inspired by the following Cover Letter Examples to grab the hiring manager’s attention and give yourself a better chance of landing an interview.
Как написать сопроводительное письмо на английском
Руководитель онлайн-школы английского EnglishDom Максим Сундалов в блоге «Нетологии» рассказывает, как правильно писать cover letter — сопроводительное письмо.
Рекрутеры часто отмечают, что молодые соискатели без опыта намного лучше справляются с написанием CV и Cover Letter своих старших коллег, но последних берут чаще на работу. Феномен объясняется просто: опытные специалисты знают, что за них красноречивее говорит портфолио, места работы в резюме и полезные знакомства, а новички доказывают собственную значимость креативными способами — видеорезюме, сайты-визитки, мотивационные письма и т.д. В борьбе за хорошее место все средства хороши, поэтому грамотное CV и Cover Letter — ваш шанс попасть в компанию мечты.
Небольшой ликбез по разбору понятий:
Cover Letter — сопроводительное или мотивационное письмо, в котором соискатель рассказывает, почему он хочет работать в компании и почему именно его должны выбрать. Используется не только для получения работы, но и для участия в стажировках и грантовых конкурсах.
Резюме — профессиональная характеристика соискателя, содержащая биографические данные (кратко), информацию об образовании, навыках и опыте работе.
CV (Curriculum Vitae) — расширенное резюме, включающее в себя подробную личную и профессиональную информацию (в том числе примеры работы и рекомендации). Часто пишется соискателями, претендующими на различные должности среднего и высокого уровней.
Компания нужна вам или вы — компании? Задаем правильный вопрос
Практика написания мотивационных (сопроводительных писем), столь популярная за рубежом, приживается и у нас. Увы, не без проблем. Большинство соискателей отказываются от желанной должности, увидев в списке требований Cover Letter, — они не знают, как его нужно писать.
На самом деле в этом нет ничего сложного:
вы формулируете в письме то, что получит компания в вашем лице;
рекрутер убеждается, что вы подходите компании (соответствуете профессиональным, финансовым и личностным требованиям).
Правила написания Cover Letter:
Стиль письма, структура и фразы
Как и CV, Cover Letter — это текст 2-10 страниц с четкой структурой в деловом стиле. В написании следует придерживаться таких правил:
только уникальный контент;
структура из 4 блоков: вступление (1 абзац до 500 символов), описание мотивов (1-2 абзаца, предпочтительно нумерованный или маркированный список с текстом до 2000 символов, информация о компетенции (можно добавить примеры — текст + список до 3000 символов) и концовка с контактной информацией (1 абзац до 500 символов);
оформление: подберите подходящий дизайн из готовых шаблонов либо создайте собственный, который будет соответствовать визуальным требованиям делового письма и способствует восприятию информации;
полезный совет: используйте в вашем письме профессиональную лексику, упомяните актуальные события сферы и компании, продемонстрировав неподдельную заинтересованность в потенциальном работодателе;
перед отправкой не забудьте проверить письмо на наличие орфографических и пунктуационных ошибок либо отдайте на вычитку корректору.
Содержание блоков
1. Вступление
Персональное приветствие («Dear Mr. / Ms», если пишите незнакомым людям, то используйте «Dear Sir or Madam»), краткая информация о себе, обоснование взаимной заинтересованности (почему вы обратили внимание на вакансию и что можете предложить компании в своем лице)).
Примеры фраз:
I have pleasure in applying for the advertised position, as…
I am writing in response to your advertisement posted on …
I was referred to you by …
I am writing in response to your advertisement posted on…
Please accept this letter as my application for the position of …
2. Образование и навыки
Пишите только о тех учебных достижениях и умениях, которые пригодятся вам на новом месте работы. Если на данном этапе ваша компетенция не соответствует желаемой должности, то это повод составить «карьерную карту» и поделиться ею в мотивационном письме.
Примеры фраз:
I am particularly interested in this job, as…
I would like to work for you, in order to…
It is a challenging position for which I believe I am well qualified.
This position represents an opportunity to continue my committed career path.
My professional skills appear to be well suited to your company’s requirements.
I have a working knowledge of…
I have …years experience of working…
3. Концовка и контактные данные
Подведите смысловой итог и напишите, почему будете рады работать в компании. Самое главное — предоставьте рекрутерам всю необходимую контактную информацию — электронная почта с адекватным адресом, рабочие профили в Facebook и LinkedIn, а также номер телефона. Заранее позаботьтесь о собственной представленности в интернете и не выкладывайте личную информацию на рабочих страницах либо ограничивайте доступ настройками приватности.
Примеры фраз:
If you are interested, please contact me at …
I can supply references from…if required.
I am eager to talk to you about the contribution i could make to your firm.
I look forward with enthusiasm to an opportunity for an interview.
I am available for the interview on…
Не забываем и об устойчивых прощальных фразах:
Помимо трех обязательных пунктов, зарубежные рекрутеры советуют использовать в Cover Letter Hook или крючок — упомяните какую-либо профессиональную особенность, опыт или достижение, которые выделят вас среди остальных кандидатов.
2. Как преподнести свои навыки и умения
Правильная презентация идеи — это половина её реализации. Грамотно представляя себя как потенциального сотрудника в желаемом месте работы, вы уже на полпути к его получению:
не используйте часто «я», «мое» — займите нейтральную позицию и адекватно оцените пользу и уровень владения того или иного навыка;
расскажите о личных качествах, которые пригодятся в работе (инициативность, тайм-менеджмент и т.д.);
пишите кратко и уместно: любой навык можно расписать от истории его приобретения до последнего использования, поэтому трезво оценивайте ситуацию. Языковая стажировка в Оксфорде для бизнес-должности — да, занятия английским в 9 классе с репетитором — нет;
убеждайте примерами — не нужно писать общие фразы, лучше излагайте информацию в формате «тезис — разъяснение, пример»;
будьте честны с рекрутерами и собой — не пишите о том, чего не умеете, чтобы потом не делать то, о чем не имеете ни малейшего представления;
3. Чем CV отличается от простого краткого рассказа о себе или инструкция по написанию
В начале статьи мы кратко рассказали, что такое CV и чем оно отличается от резюме, поэтому теперь переходим к списку конкретных требований. Помните, первым, кто увидит этот документ, будет рекрутер, поэтому в вашем расположении не больше 30-45 секунд привлечь внимание и не отправиться в группу «запасных». Для этого можно использовать шаблоны CV или сделать свой, в котором будет 5-6 блоков с нумерованными и маркированными списками.
первый блок General — персональные (имя, дата рождения и семейное положение по желанию) и контактные данные (город проживания, электронный адрес, мобильный номер, ссылки на страницы в социальных сетях — LinkedIn и Facebook) необходимо указывать вверху вашего CV (для этого прекрасно подойдут колонтитулы);
следующий блок Summary — краткий план с основными тезисами — кто вы, на какую должность претендуете и кто может вас рекомендовать. Более подробную информацию рекрутер узнает из основного текста CV;
блок Work experience, Employment history — последний опыт работы либо деятельности, имеющей отношение к вакансии. Здесь можно указать достижения в сфере, участие в тематических мероприятиях и планах на будущее. Главное правило — информация подается в обратном хронологическом порядке, т.е. первая строка — это последнее место работы. Указываем год, должность и место работы + можно добавить список выполняемых обязанностей (используйте активные глаголы), а также полученный опыт и навыки;
Что касается навыков, то не перечисляйте стандартные key words подряд, а обосновывайте их необходимость на будущем месте работы и подтверждайте примерами из личного опыта;
ещё один необязательный, но влиятельный блок References, который может включать характеристику, рекомендательные письма и отзывы.
Помните, хорошая работа стоит того, чтобы за неё побороться. Удачи!
Бонус: полезные ресурсы для написания CV и Cover Letter:
How To Format a Cover Letter (With Outline and Examples)
By Indeed Editorial Team
Updated June 30, 2022 | Published April 23, 2019
Updated June 30, 2022
Published April 23, 2019
Related: What Do Employers Look For in a Cover Letter?
Holl, a career coach at Indeed, explains the purpose of a cover letter and what employers are looking for in a cover letter.
A cover letter is a one-page document that highlights your qualifications and often accompanies your resume when you apply for jobs. In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about creating a winning cover letter, including an outline and examples for you to follow.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter usually is three paragraphs long and outlines why you are applying for a specific position, a brief overview of your professional background and what makes you uniquely qualified for the job. While some employers require a cover letter to apply, others make it optional.
Cover Letter Format
Date and contact information
Salutation or greeting
Letter ending and signature
Cover letter outline
Here is an outline of a cover letter, section by section, so you can see how to write a cover letter yourself.
Date and contact information
There are two ways to list contact information on your cover letter, depending on whether you’re providing a digital or hard copy.
If you’re submitting a digital copy online, include your city and state, phone number and email:
Date
Your name
City, state
Phone number
Email address
Although it’s becoming less common, there may be a time when you’re required to submit a paper copy of your cover letter. In this case, the top left-hand side of your letter should include the following:
Date
Your name
Your address
Your city, state, ZIP code
Your phone number
Your email address
Hiring manager’s name
Company name
Company address
Company city, state, ZIP code
Salutation / greeting
. If you can, find out the name of the hiring manager. Reread the job description to see if it’s listed there or check the company website. Do not use ”Mr.,” ”Mrs.” or ”Ms.,” and instead use the hiring manager’s first and last name.
If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, stick with “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid outdated greetings, such as “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
Opening paragraph
The opening paragraph is your chance to catch the hiring manager’s attention, introduce yourself and express your enthusiasm to a potential employer. Include why you’re excited about the job and the company and how it lines up with your career goals. Include keywords from the job posting and match your skills to the employer’s requirements.
If you were referred to this job by someone who knows the hiring manager or already works at this company, you may want to mention this referral in your opening paragraph
Middle paragraphs
Related: How To Optimize the Body of Your Cover Letter
Holl shares what to focus on in the body of your cover letter in order to show the value that you can add to the company without simply restating your resume.
Use the middle paragraph to discuss your most relevant experience, highlighting specific qualifications and skills
that make you the perfect candidate. In one or two paragraphs, make the connection between your previous accomplishments and your suitability for the role you are applying for. Think of these paragraphs as a way to pitch yourself as the ideal match for the role
Closing paragraph
Use the final paragraph to thank the employer for their time and consideration and clarify any details from your resume. For example, if you have employment gaps
because you were caring for a sick loved one, you can briefly mention this here. You can also use this space to sum up your qualifications for the role and express an interest in continuing to the next stage in the hiring process.
Complimentary close and signature
Related: How to End Your Cover Letter
Holl, a career coach at Indeed, walks through how to wrap up your cover letter with a summary of why you are best fit for the role and a call to action.
that is friendly yet formal, followed by your first and last name. Closings you might consider include:
Thank you for your consideration
Avoid closings like ”Cheers,” ”Warm Regards” or ”Yours Truly” as these may be considered too casual or affectionate.
If you’re providing a hard copy of your cover letter, handwrite your signature and also include your full typed name.
Cover letter font
When it comes to font, keep it simple and professional. Choose a basic font like Arial, Calibri, Verdana or something similar. Avoid using fancy or decorative fonts.
Many employers use applicant tracking systems—software that allows automated sorting of job applications based on specific keywords, skills, job titles or other fields. Complicated fonts can make it harder for the software to read your letter, which might prevent your application from moving forward.
Use 10- and 12-point sizes for easy reading. In general, you should use the same font and font size that you used in your resume.
Spacing within your cover letter
Good spacing is essential for your cover letter. White spaces on your letters will make it easier for the hiring manager to read quickly. Follow these guidelines:
Make your cover letter single-spaced.
Add a space between each section: contact information, salutation, opening paragraph, middle paragraph, closing paragraph and complimentary closing. (There’s no need to indent any of your paragraphs.)
Length guidelines
Keep your cover letter to a single page made up of three paragraphs. You can add an extra middle paragraph if necessary. Before doing this, however, always ask yourself if you can communicate the essential information in fewer words.
Margins and alignment
Align your text to the left and use standard 1-inch margins all the way around. If your letter is spilling onto a second page, reread it and see if there’s anything you can cut. If you can’t cut anything, consider shrinking the margins to 3/4-inch or 1/2-inch, but avoid going smaller than that.
File format
Since an applicant tracking system may be parsing your cover letter, make sure you save your document in a compatible file format such as a Word doc or a pdf. It’s also a good idea to rename your file to something specific, especially since hiring managers can see the file name of your online submission. Follow the format of First Name-Last Name-Cover-Letter (e.g., Jade-Young-cover-letter.doc) to make it more convenient for the person downloading your file.
Cover letter example
Here is an example of a cover letter to help you create your own:
Anne Galindo
123-456-7890
anne.smith@email.com
Dear Hiring Manager,
I’m excited to be applying for the web developer position at [Company Name]. I’ve been programming websites and using CSS to create user-friendly experiences since I was in middle school, so it’s always been a passion of mine. I’ve also been intrigued by your company ever since it won Most Innovative at the National Web Development Awards two years ago. I strive to stay on the cutting-edge of web design and development, so when I saw this job posting, I knew I had to apply.
During my previous role at [Company Name], I built a website completely from scratch for a recently rebranded business, both ahead of schedule and within budget. I started by gathering requirements from my clients and holding a focus group to perform user research. My favorite part about web design is building a solution that impresses the client and meets the needs of users and customers.
My new website was responsive, lightning-fast, and included the latest e-commerce features. After launch, I continued to lead optimization efforts. Through A/B testing, I improved the click-through rate by 10% and reduced the bounce rate on the website’s landing page by 35%. As your web developer, I would bring these skills to develop websites that exceed the expectations of clients and customers and drive real business results.
One of the factors that attracted me to this role is that [Company Name] values giving back to the community. In my spare time, I run free web development workshops for at-risk youths. In these workshops, I teach them the basics of HTML/CSS and JavaScript and serve as a mentor. As I grow in my career, applying my skills to help others and make an impact on the world becomes more important—I believe this role would give me that opportunity.
Thank you for your consideration and time. I look forward to learning more details about the position and company.
Cover letter samples for common job titles
Here is a list of cover letters for common job titles:
The Best Professional Cover Letter Samples
When applying for a job, it’s always a good idea to include a cover letter, unless the employer specifies that they only want an application or a resume. Even if a job listing does not specifically request a cover letter, including one can be a terrific way to summarize your skills and experiences and explain (in more detail than in a resume) why you are an ideal candidate for the job.
What’s most important is writing a cover letter that shows the hiring manager what makes you one of the best candidates for the position.
Think of your cover letter as your introductory “sales pitch,” your golden opportunity to make a positive first impression on a company.
Reviewing cover letter samples is a great place to start before writing your own letter. You can then download a template to get started creating your own letter.
What the Best Cover Letters Do Well
Your cover letter should be well-written and provide some sense of your personality and professionalism. It should also be targeted to the position for which you are applying. Don’t send a generic letter when you apply for jobs. Most employers get many applications for every open job, and your cover letter and resume need to show that you’ve taken the time to write compelling application material that shows your interest in working for the company in this role.
Make clear and persuasive connections between your experiences and the skills required to excel in the job, using the skills listed in the job announcement’s “Preferred Qualifications” section as your guide. Taking the time to match your qualifications to the company’s job requirements will show the employer you’re a strong match for the job.
Your cover letter is one of the first things the hiring manager will see (along with your resume), so make sure that it grabs the reader’s attention and entices them to give your resume a serious review.
How to Use Cover Letter Samples
These professionally written samples will help you write and format your cover letter as either a Word document or a text version that you can send as an email message.
Reviewing examples also gives you ideas for the language you might want to use, the information you should include, and how to format the letter so all the required information is included and there is plenty of white space on the page. Then, spend some time customizing your letter:
Be sure to customize your letter to fit your own skills and experience and to target the specific job for which you are applying.
Review Cover Letter Examples
Use these cover letter samples to get ideas for your own cover letters so you can show prospective employers why you should be selected for an interview.
Cover Letter Template
Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) to get started, or see below for many more examples listed by type of job, candidate, and letter format.
Cover Letter Example (Text Version)
Victoria Hernandez
12 Maple Street
Citytown, IL 60416
555-555-5555
victoria.hernandez@email.com
James Smith
Hiring Manager
Citytown Therapy
35 Oak Avenue
Citytown, IL 60416
I was thrilled to see your ad for an occupational therapist at Citytown Therapy. I’m a licensed occupational therapist with five years of experience providing excellent care to patients ranging from toddlers to mature adults. I’d love to put my skills to work for your clinic.
In reference to your requirements in the job description, I have:
I’d appreciate the opportunity to discuss the position and your needs for the role. Please contact me at your convenience and let me know how I can help you.
Victoria Hernandez (signature hard copy letter)
List of Cover Letter Samples
Have a look at this alphabetical list of great cover letter examples listed by occupation. Use these examples to get ideas for your own cover letters.
SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips
6 Excellent Cover Letter Samples for Jobs
Just like no two snowflakes are alike, neither should any two cover letters look the same. Even if you’re applying to lots of jobs, you should make sure each of your cover letters is unique and tailored to the target job.
Of course, no one’s born knowing how to write the perfect cover letter. To help you write yours, this guide has six free samples of cover letters for various jobs. Scroll down to the middle of the article for the cover letter samples, or first check out these tips for writing a cover letter for your job application!
Why Are Cover Letters Important?
In many cases, your cover letter represents your first communication with your potential employer. Through the written word, you communicate your interest in the new job and make your case for why you’d be the best person for the role.
The job market’s always competitive, but a stand-out cover letter can differentiate you from other candidates. It can also help personalize your candidacy beyond your resume. Remember, everyone’s human here. While cover letters range in tone from formal to conversational, the best ones manage to connect with their readers.
As the applicant, your mission is to send a cover letter that gets you noticed and leaves an impression of competence, professionalism, and cultural fit. So how exactly can you fulfill this mission?
One way is to make sure your cover letter contains a few key features. Read on for the four most important characteristics of great cover letters!
What Should Your Cover Letter Include? 4 Main Features
There are several components that go into a great cover letter. To start this guide, we’ve picked out four of the most important ones to guide your writing. Your letter should do all of the following.
1. It Should Reflect the Job Description
Perhaps this goes without saying, but your cover letter should be customized to the job for which you’re applying. Don’t send a generic letter that could apply to lots of different companies. Beyond simply inserting the organization name and job title, your letter should be a special snowflake, truly customized to the organization and its available role.
Don’t just show you want a job. Show you want that specific job.
The first step in making this happen is deconstructing the job description. Read its requirements closely, and do research into the organization and the industry as a whole. Figure out what qualities they seek and any problems, sometimes referred to as «pain points,» that they need solved. Make sure that you reflect this understanding in your letter.
Once you have thorough knowledge of the job description, you can analyze your skill set in relation to it. Rather than talking about what you’re looking for, explain why your skills and experiences make you a good match for the organization or company. Even if you don’t have directly related experience, you can show how your skills would transfer to the role. Explain how you could contribute and bring value to the team.
This focus will show the hiring manager(s) that you did your research on the organization and are being thoughtful about your application. By confidently detailing the reasons you’d make a good fit, you can convince your reader of the same.
The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. Make sure your cover letter stays on track!
2. It Should Give Specific Examples
Another good practice for cover letters is to include specific examples of your professional qualifications and achievements. Rather than solely re-listing the points on your resume, you might expand on them with an example of a past success. Using data, if relevant, is also a powerful way to quantify your accomplishments.
For instance, a marketing manager might describe the specific growth of her company’s online readership. She could write a sentence or two about a particular campaign that met or exceeded its goals. A school counselor, to give a second example, might mention a student she worked with and that student’s progress over the year.
As you read the sample cover letters, take note of how they contain specific examples of the applicant’s work.
3. It Should Communicate Enthusiasm
As a whole, your letter should convey a sense of enthusiasm for the new job and organization. Simply customizing your letter, as discussed in the first point, will show that you were interested enough in the opportunity to do lots of research.
Beyond producing a well-crafted letter, you should incorporate phrases like, “I was pleased to find your posting for» and “I was excited to see this opportunity with your organization.”
Show that you’re eager to engage in conversation about the position and what you can contribute. Use positive language to show how excited you are about the opportunity.
4. It Should Be Readable, Clear, and Concise
Your cover letter’s not the time to write a long-form narrative about everything you’ve ever done or ever hope to do. Instead, it should be concise and to the point. Cover letters should be a little less than a page, so you want to choose each word carefully and stay on topic.
Even if you don’t consider yourself a strong writer, you can still definitely produce a strong cover letter. If you find yourself rambling in your first draft, you can pare it down to its leanest form in the editing. Your cover letter should communicate the essentials so that the hiring manager can gain a sense of your qualifications with just a brief skim.
To gain a sense of how to do this effectively, check out the cover letter samples below and see how the candidates advocate for themselves via the written word.
Feel free to take a close look at these sample cover letters to guide your own writing.
Cover Letters: 6 Great Samples and Analyses
Now that you have a sense of what makes a strong cover letter, click on the links below for six samples of cover letters for jobs, each followed by a breakdown of what it does well. Some of the prospective jobs include English Teacher, Assistant Restaurant Manager, and Customer Experience Representative. Even if the job you’re applying for is totally different than the ones below, you can still use the basic structure and content to guide your thinking.
Before you start reading the samples, a quick note on format. You’ll notice that each one includes contact information at the top, as well as the date. This traditional format is good for hard copies or cover letters sent as Word document attachments. If you’re pasting your cover letter directly into the body of your email or into a text box on an application portal, then you can leave off this traditional formatting and start with the salutation.
You’ll find a few more tips on how to format your cover letter below, but first, the samples!
Once you have a sense of what goes into a good cover letter, scroll down for a few more tips on formatting your letter and making it stand out from the competition!
If possible, try to address your cover letter to a specific person. Not all positions publicize a point person, but I know of a little search tool that might help.
Writing a Cover Letter: Final Tips
In addition to the four key features that you read about at the beginning of this guide, you should pay special attention to a few other pieces of your cover letter. Some pieces to think about are the employer’s application instructions, as well as your cover letter’s format, salutation, overall focus, and conclusion. Let’s consider each one, starting with the instructions.
Follow the Application Instructions
Just as you should research the position and industry before writing your cover letter, you should also make sure to acquaint yourself with any and all application instructions. Many positions will tell you how and when to send your materials, and they might give special guidelines like a word limit or specific question they want you to answer.
One important reason to follow application instructions is that they might shape what your cover letter looks like. If you’re pasting it into the body of an email or a text box, then you can cut to the chase and start right in. If you’re sending it as a Word attachment or a hard copy (rare), then you could add headers and use a traditional form.
Check out more tips on format in the next section, but make sure to prioritize any application instructions first and foremost as you prepare your materials!
Consider What Format to Use
As you just read, the format you use depends on how you’re sending your cover letter, whether as a hard copy / Word attachment or pasted directly into the body of your email. If you’re typing your cover letter in the body of an email or a text box on a job application portal, then you typically don’t need to add any headers. You can just start right in with the salutation. Considering lots of jobs use their own application websites or ask for an email, starting right in with a «Dear Hiring Manager» is pretty common.
If you’re sending a hard copy or attaching the letter as a Word document, then you might include the more traditional format you see reflected in the samples. You’d put a header on top with your name, address, email, and phone number. You could match the header on your cover letter with the header on your resume to give your whole application a cohesive look.
Beneath this header, you’d add the date and the contact information of the hiring manager. If you didn’t know the specific person, you could just put the name of the company and its address. The date and company information would be lined up with the left hand margin.
Overall, the letter may be four to five paragraphs: an introduction, two to three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Then you’ll add “Sincerely” and print your name. You might add your phone number and email beneath your printed name if they’re not already present elsewhere.
Address a Specific Person
While it won’t always be possible, you should try your best to address a specific person. If the job doesn’t indicate a specific point person, try to do some research on the company’s website and LinkedIn.
If you can’t find a particular person, you might make your audience a little more specific by indicating the position in your salutation. For instance, you could write «Dear Editorial Hiring Manager» or «Dear Marketing Manager Search Committee.»
If that doesn’t apply, then you could simply write «Dear Hiring Manager» or «Dear Hiring Professional.» You should probably avoid the generic and distant «To Whom It May Concern» (and definitely steer clear of the antiquated «Dear Sirs»).
Stay On Topic
Cover letters typically shouldn’t exceed one page, meaning you need to pack a punch in just a few words. Besides editing for clarity and keeping your sentences short and to the point, you should also make sure your letter stays on topic throughout.
You don’t have to address everything on your resume. Just choose the most important skills and qualifications as they relate to the new job. In terms of the flow of ideas, you should order your points according to how relevant they are to the prospective position.
If something feels off topic, then cut it out. Generally, your letter will just get stronger through decisive revision.
Finish Up Strong
There’s some debate out there about the best way to finish up a cover letter. Some hiring managers suggest that you should do everything you can to pursue the position, even stating that you’ll follow up in a week to discuss the position or arrange a meeting. Other managers, though, say that this kind of language comes off as aggressive and pushy. They say you should thank them for their time and then wait to hear about next steps.
The path you choose largely depends on the type of job and industry you’re applying for. A sales professional may show her initiative and communication skills with a follow-up call. Someone in the publishing world, though, may be turned off by this language.
Above all, make sure to follow any application instructions. If a job says «no calls,» then you should respect that. And if you do decide to state your intentions to follow up, make sure you do actually follow up when you said you would!
Your conclusion is your last chance to express your enthusiasm for a position and leave a lasting impression. Be thoughtful about how you finish your letter, and make sure to thank the hiring manager and be clear about how and when she can contact you.
In closing, let’s go over the key points to remember as you go forth and draft your own cover letters.
The search committee’s super impressed with your cover letter. They’d love to invite you in for an interview.
To Sum Up…
Writing a cover letter can feel like a tall assignment, but it’s also an opportunity for you to advocate for yourself in a powerful way. In your cover letter, you can prove to the hiring manager that you understand what she’s looking for and are the best person for the job.
Your cover letter’s often your first impression, so put in the effort to make it professional and enthusiastic. Spend some time deconstructing the job description and analyzing how your skills, knowledge, and qualifications match up.
Then present your skills in a clear and concise way and show that you feel passionate about the prospective position. In the end, your cover letter can differentiate you from the pool of other applicants and land you an interview for your dream job!
What’s Next?
Another key part of the job search is your letters of recommendation. Check out our comprehensive guide on recommendation letters, along with nine free samples of reference letters.
Do you have to write a recommendation letter for an employee, coworker, or friend? This recommendation letter template guides you through the writing process, step by step.
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Rebecca graduated with her Master’s in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.
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Полезные фразы для написания сопроводительного письма на английском
“The resume focuses on you and the past. The cover letter focuses on the employer and the future. Tell the hiring professional what you can do to benefit the organization in the future. ”
Резюме рассказывает о вас и о вашем прошлом. В сопроводительном письме основное внимание уделяется работодателю и будущему. Расскажите специалисту по найму, что вы можете сделать, чтобы принести пользу его организации в будущем.
Joyce Lain Kennedy, Cover Letters for Dummies
В этой статье вашему вниманию предлагаются основные фразы и словосочетания для написания сопроводительного письма на английском языке, а об основных глаголах для резюме и сопроводительного письма вы можете узнать из статьи «100 глаголов для резюме на английском с переводом».
Идеальное сопроводительное письмо на английском
В нашей статье Как написать сопроводительное письмо на английском вы могли узнать основные требования к Cover Letter, к его структуре, а также ознакомитесь с примером написания сопроводительного письма.
При составлении сопроводительного письма попытайтесь “захватить” внимание с первых строк. Но помните, что для сопроводительного письма действуют те же правила, что и для всех деловых писем на английском.
Клише для приветствия и самопрезентации на английском языке
Приступая к написанию сопроводительного письма, попытайтесь узнать кто будет его читать и обязательно укажите откуда узнали о вакансии.
Помните, что первые строки должны сразу же привлечь внимание специалиста по трудоустройству к вашей кандидатуре. Включите в обязательном порядке клишированные фразы и выражения на английском, чтобы задать официальный деловой тон всего письма.
Фразы для описания квалификации, опыта, достижений
Кратко опишите как опыт работы, ваши знания и навыки помогут вам справится с заданиями будущей работы.
Личные качества на английском языке для Cover Letter
Ваши личные качества играют не последнюю роль при прочтении сопроводительного письма, поэтому не стесняйтесь и похвалите себя. Пишете только правдивую информацию, иначе при первом неудачном испытании, вы можете получить прямой отказ.
Главное, не переусердствуйте, чтобы не сложилось впечатление, что вы слишком хороши для желаемой должности. Более того, вы рискуете произвести впечатление самовлюбленного эгоцентричного человека. Поэтому оптимальное количество позитивных личностных характеристик должно быть не более пяти.
Промежуточные фразы при написании Cover Letter
Использование этих фраз и оборотов сделает текст более связным, придаст Вашему письму эмоциональный окрас, который обязательно заметит HR-менеджер и выгодно выделит вас среди других кандидатов перед собеседованием.
Как показать интерес к компании в сопроводительном письме

И тут как раз, решающее значение имеет перспективные планы, которые компания имеет на вас. Поэтому значительная часть вашего сопроводительного письма должна показать, что компания выиграет, приняв вас на работу.
| Фраза на английском | Фраза на русском |
|---|---|
| The company’s activities/projects belong to the sphere where my professional interests lie. | Деятельность/проекты компании соответствуют моим профессиональным интересам. |
| I am particularly interested in this job, as… | Я чрезвычайно заинтересован в этой работе, поскольку… |
| I am particularly interested in the company’s projects that concern… | Особенно интересны проекты компании, связанные с … |
| I share the company’s conviction that… | Я разделяю позицию компании в том, что… |
| I share such key values of the company as… | Я разделяю такие ключевые ценности компании как … |
| I find your company attractive because… | Ваша компания привлекает меня тем, что… |
| I have a lively interest in … and would appreciate the opportunity / chance to broaden my knowledge by working with you. | Меня живо интересует… и я буду благодарен за возможность расширить свои знания, работая с вами. |
| I would like to develop in the field of (name of the field) … / in this sphere | Мне бы хотелось развиваться в сфере (название) … / в данном направлении |
| I would like to apply my experience and professional skills in … | Мне бы хотелось применить мой опыт и профессиональные навыки в … |
| I would like to work for you, in order to… | Я бы хотел работать на вас для того, чтобы… |
| I have been interested in this type of job all through my career. | На протяжении всей моей карьеры меня интересовала такая работа. |
Как написать на английском, что у вас есть рекомендательные письма
Не забудьте, что наличие общих знакомых и рекомендаций от влиятельных людей значительно повысит ваши шансы среди других кандидатов.
| Фраза на английском | Фраза на русском |
|---|---|
| Names and contact details of my referees are available on request. | Готов предоставить контакты людей, которые могут меня порекомендовать. |
| Please find the names and contact details of my referees below … | Предоставляю контакты людей, которые могут меня порекомендовать … |
| I enclose copies of references from my last two employers. | Я прилагаю копии отзывов двух моих бывших нанимателей. |
| The names of two references are given below. | Имена двух поручителей указаны ниже. |
Фразы для завершения сопроводительного письма на английском
Стандартные фразы для окончания сопроводительного письма
| Фраза на английском | Фраза на русском |
|---|---|
| You will find more detailed information in my CV attached to this email. | Более детальную информацию вы сможете найти в моем резюме, которое прикрепляю к этому письму. |
| You can find samples of my work in the attachment. | Во вложении вы можете увидеть образцы моих лучших работ. |
| Thank you for your time and consideration. | Благодарю за ваше время и внимание. |
| I would appreciate a reply to my application. | Был бы очень признателен за обратную связь. |
| Thank you for considering my application | Благодарю за ваше время и внимание к моему письму. |
| Thanking you most sincerely for your time and consideration. | Благодарю вас за ваше время и внимание. |
| Thank you for considering me for this very important position. | Спасибо, что рассмотрели меня для этой очень важной позиции. |
| Please contact me via… | Пожалуйста, обращайтесь ко мне посредством… (контактная информация) |
| Yours faithfully… | С уважением, …(если начинали письмо Dear Sir or Madam) |
| Yours sincerely / Best regards / Kind regards… | С уважением, …(если начинали письмо Dear Mr Surname) |
Выражения для побуждения hrmanager к действию
| Фраза на английском | Фраза на русском |
|---|---|
| I would be delighted to discuss my application further at an interview and complete a test task. | Буду очень рад ответить на дополнительные вопросы на собеседовании, а также выполнить тестовое задание. |
| I am available for interview on… | Я могу подойти на собеседование… (укажите дату) |
| I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further details of the position with you personally. | Я был бы рад возможности обсудить дальнейшие детали позиции с вами лично. |
| I look forward to the opportunity to personally discuss why I am particularly suited to this position. | С нетерпением ожидаю возможности лично обсудить с вами причины, которые делают меня самой подходящей кандидатурой на эту должность. |
| I look forward to hearing from you. | С нетерпением жду вашего ответа. |
| I look forward with enthusiasm to an opportunity for an interview. | Я с энтузиазмом смотрю на возможность интервью. |
| I am eager to talk with you about the contribution I could make to your firm. | Я очень хочу поговорить с вами о вкладе, который я мог бы привнести в вашу фирму. |
Подводим итоги:
Также рекомендуем Вам посмотреть видео из канала Learn English with Let’s Talk
А чтобы всегда чувствовать себя уверенно при общении с иностранными партнерами и работодателем, предлагаем пройти Бизнес курс английского языка в нашей школе.
Cover Letter Examples for Management Jobs
Nick Correia / Getty Images
The goal of a cover letter is to show that you’re a strong candidate and should be brought in for an interview. When you are writing cover letters for a management position, you’ll want to clearly define your management skills and experience to help differentiate you from the competition. In particular, make sure your cover letter focuses on your leadership abilities, mentioning any accomplishments as a manager in previous roles.
Below is information on how to write a successful management-level cover letter. It includes an example, a template to download, and a list of management cover letters sorted by job type for inspiration in writing your own.
What Employers Look for in a Cover Letter
Companies want to see evidence of what you have accomplished in your previous positions. It’s important to highlight your credentials that are a close match for what the employer is seeking in the ideal candidate.
Experience and Qualifications
Your objective is to write a compelling cover letter that highlights your management and leadership experience, achievements, and qualifications. For management-level positions, they will be eager to see that you’ve led teams and projects successfully in the past.
Quantifiable Achievements
Rather than stating a list of tasks that you did in previous positions, share specific and quantifiable examples of accomplishments.
For example, if you reduced employee turnover by 10%, share that statistic. If you’re interviewing for a sales manager position and you’ve hired some of the company’s top salespeople, mention it. When you’ve led a company to record-breaking growths and profitability, share as much of that information as you can without breaching confidentiality.
Sharing specifics about accomplishments is far more compelling than simply saying you managed a team of 15 people, performing annual one-on-one reviews.
What You Have to Offer
Along with detailing your past management experience, you can also touch on what you would be able to accomplish in the role you’re seeking. Remember, employers are most interested in how you will perform once you’re in the position at hand.
Your previous experience is relevant for two reasons: to predict your future success and to show that you have the necessary background and experience to step into the position. Use your cover letter to share how your skills and abilities will benefit the company.
What to Include in Your Cover Letter
Salutation
Open your cover letter with a salutation. Then, in the first paragraph of your cover letter, mention the specific job for which you’re applying and your interest in working for the company.
Body of Letter
Use the second and third paragraphs of your letter to explain why you are a strong candidate for the position. You can use bullet points to express some of your accomplishments. Regardless of format, this middle section needs to demonstrate that you are a good candidate with relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments. Close the letter by thanking the company for considering you for the role.
Avoid being generic in your cover letter; the most effective letters are customized for each job application. A compelling letter will show why you are the best-qualified candidate for this management position in particular. Take the time to match your qualifications to the requirements listed in the job posting. Researching the company to get a sense of their needs and goals can also help you write a persuasive letter.
Use this as a space to tell a story about yourself, expand on your resume, or highlight important skills/accomplishments that may be buried in the bottom half of your resume. While the tone should be professional, you can show some of your character and voice in your letter.
Letter Closing
In the final paragraph of your letter, thank the employer for their consideration and include your contact information, followed by your signature.
Cover Letter Sample
This is an example of a cover letter for a management position. Download the management job cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.
Cover Letter Sample (Text Version)
Wendy Applicant
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345
555-555-5555
wendy.applicant@email.com
Norman Lee
Regional Manager
Bubbles
123 Business Road
Business City, NY 54321
I was glad to see your job posting for the new Store Manager position because I have all the qualifications you are seeking. I will be moving to Cherry Grove in two weeks and I believe I am a perfect fit for the Bubbles store.
I have four years of retail experience as an assistant manager, and my skills include the ability to train and schedule employees effectively, to manage payroll, and to track and control inventory. I also have solid written and verbal communication skills, enjoy working with people, and I have a very flexible schedule.
In addition, I have extensive experience with bath and body care products and an eye for setting up enticing product displays. In fact, at my current store, I was given the responsibility for visual merchandising, including new displays, and sales of featured products increased by 25% over the past three months.
I’ve included my resume so you may review my experience and education. If you have any questions, please contact me. My cell phone number is 555-555-5555, and my email is wendy.applicant@email.com. I look forward to hearing from you so we can arrange an interview.
Wendy Applicant (signature for a hard copy letter)
Sending an Email Cover Letter
When you are sending your letter via email include your name and the job title in the subject line of your message:
Subject: FirstName LastName – Manager Position
List your contact information in your signature, rather than in the body of the letter:
FirstName LastName
Your Email
Your Phone Number
Your LinkedIn Profile (optional)
More Cover Letter Examples for Management Jobs
Here are some examples of management-level cover letters to draw inspiration from:
Sample letters can help you write your own letter. Another helpful tool is a template, which helps you structure your letter. Here is a template for hard copy cover letters, and one for email cover letters. Finally, here are Microsoft Word cover letter templates you can use to get your own cover letter started.
Management Resume Examples
In addition to looking at cover letter examples, review resume examples for inspiration on how to make your management resume the best it can be. For management-related resumes, you may include your management philosophy, examples of accomplishments and quotes from others regarding your management skills, in addition to your work history and other relevant information.
How to Format a Cover Letter (With Examples)
When you are applying for a job, how you format your cover letter is important because the letter is one of the first impressions you’ll make on an employer. In fact, how you format your letter is almost as important as what you write in it.
A cover letter that is formatted incorrectly, or is difficult to read, can quickly eliminate you from the pool of candidates, so it’s important to pay just as much attention to the formatting of your letter as to its content.
Here’s information on cover letter formatting guidelines including setting page margins, choosing a font style and size, paragraph and section spacing, and more tips on how to format cover letters for employment.
Cover Letter Format Guidelines
Adhering to typical standards in formatting is especially important considering that communication skills are important in nearly every field, and failing to compose a readable cover letter will certainly not inspire confidence in your abilities.
On the other hand, a cover letter that is saved correctly and uses sufficient white space, a simple, reasonably sized font, and an appropriate salutation and closing will make a positive impression on your potential employers.
The Easiest Way to Format a Cover Letter
The easiest way to format a letter is to write the letter first, then format it. Once you have all the content (contact information, why you are applying and qualified, signature, etc.) on the page, you can then easily adjust the margins, font, and alignment. Here’s an overview of each section.
With an email cover letter, your contact information should be below your signature.
What to Include in Each Section
Here are details on what to include in each section of your cover letter.
Cover Letter Format Example
Your Contact Information
Name
Address
City, State Zip Code
Phone Number
Email Address
Date
Employer Contact Information (if you have it)
Name
Title
Company
Address
City, State Zip Code
Salutation
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,
Cover Letter Greeting Examples: Note: If you do not have a contact name, you can skip the salutation entirely. Or, you can use Dear Hiring Manager, To Whom It May Concern, or one of the other examples listed in the link. Ideally, you will be able to address your cover letter to a specific person. Doing research can help you figure out who is the most appropriate person to receive the letter. Note: If you do not know the gender of your contact, you can write out the person’s full name, e.g., «Dear Cory Smith»or «Dear Jordan Parish.»
Body of Cover Letter
The body of your cover letter lets the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow-up. Organize the body of your cover letter into the following paragraphs:
Complimentary Close
Respectfully yours,
Signature
Handwritten Signature (for a hard copy letter)
Formatting Tips for Cover Letters
Here are some formatting tips to keep in mind when you are writing your letter:
Use your word processor’s spell check to catch common errors, and then consider reading your letter aloud—or having a friend review it—to catch additional errors.
Cover Letter Template
Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online) or read the example below.
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Cover Letter Sample (Text Version)
Molly Smith
21 Spring Street
Anycity, NY 12000
555-122-3333
msmith@email.com
John Brown
Sales Manager
Acme Corp.
321 Main Street
Anycity, NY 12000
I wish to apply for the sales position advertised on Monster.com. Terry Johnson suggested that I contact you directly, as we have worked together, and he felt that I would be a good fit with your team.
For the past two years I have been working in sales for Goodman & Co.. I have consistently exceeded my targets and I was recognized last quarter for outstanding service. As an avid cyclist and user of many of your products, I’m aware that Acme Corp. is a company with tremendous potential. I am confident that my experience, communication skills, and ability to convey product benefits effectively would enable me to excel in the sales role.
I would be delighted to discuss with you how I might be an asset to the Acme Corp. sales team. Thank you for your consideration; I look forward to hearing from you.
Signature (hard copy letter)
More Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips
Also review more cover letter templates and examples of cover letters for a variety of different types of jobs, types of job seekers, and types of job applications.
50 Sample Cover Letters
Excellent sample cover letters to get the job you want. Select the right one for you.
A resume without a convincing cover letter makes little impact and will probably land up in the trash can.
A specific, personalized cover letter that highlights your suitability for the job will grab the reader’s attention and ensure your resume gets serious consideration for the job opportunity.
Research has shown us what works when writing a cover letter and what doesn’t. These sample cover letters, each designed for a specific job type, use these key criteria to provide a practical and persuasive example.
Customize the sample cover letter below that you want and create your own personal and unique job resume cover letter.
How to write your resume cover letter
Sample Cover Letters
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Good Cover Letter Samples
Whether it’s your first job or a major mid-career change, our expertly-written cover letter samples are designed to walk you through the writing process while allowing you to adapt each section to your specific needs and experiences. What’s more, within our builder tool you can make use of pre-written sentences to easily create a professional tone for your cover letter.
Our cover letter and resume samples address all aspects of creating a good cover letter – from choosing the right header to align with your industry to closing your last paragraph with a sentence that makes hiring managers more likely to give you a call.
No matter how many times you’ve written a cover letter we all need a little refresher every now and again. A good cover letter sample can give you insight into the best practices for your field and experience level to help you write faster and smarter.
CV Cover Letter examples to get that job
You know when you see it – the job that fits your skill set perfectly, the one at a great company with amazing benefits, the career move that would have numerous professional advantages. Our CV cover letter examples are designed to get you that job. After all, why settle for anything less?
You’ve spent years crafting your CV to make sure it perfectly captures your milestones and achievements. Now, it’s time to write a cover letter that gives your CV it’s best chance at impressing a hiring manager and landing a job. With our CV cover letter samples, you can be confident you have the most up-to-date information and specific, relevant advice to make your cover letter stand out no matter how large the applicant pool.
Our top 10 of best examples
Internship
Internships are invaluable work experiences designed to give you the skills you need to launch your dream career. With such a valuable proposition on the line, trust our internship application letter sample to teach you how to put your best foot forward and make a great impression, even if you don’t have much work experience.
This example internship cover letter is packed full of writing and formatting tips, covering everything from the right tone for junior positions to the psychology of a personal connection. This expert advice can be applied to any industry or type of internship and works great in conjunction with the example guide for your chosen field. Don’t forget to check out out matching Resume Internship Example
Use this Internship cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Internship positions in 2022. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Customer Service
Companies around the world are taking notice of the fact that great customer service drives sales and customer retention. This cover letter sample helps you highlight the key qualities hiring managers look for in customer service reps. Show off your unique personality while creating the professional image required in this outward-facing position.
Customer service jobs are great entry points into the world of sales and marketing. Whatever your career goals, this sample customer service application letter is great for learning the tried-and-true structure of an effective cover letter which can be applied to any position.
Use this Customer Service Representative cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Customer Service Representative positions in 2022. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Administrative Assistant
Administrative assistant positions are in high demand because of their ability to offer an inside look and open doors in any industry. With this application letter sample, you’ll learn how to maximize your chances of landing one of these highly coveted positions by highlighting your top skills and relevant experiences.
This administrative assistant cover letter sample is full of useful tips no matter what field you plan to work in and the knowledge can be easily applied to administative or receptionists positions as well. This guide also gives an overview of professional formatting tips, which can easily be used in conjunction with our attractive cover letter styles.
Use this Administrative Assistant cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Administrative Assistant positions in 2022. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Teacher
Our teacher application letter example teaches you how to show a principal that you’ve got the skills and know-how to handle a classroom and help your students thrive. Once you’ve mastered the writing, make a great first impression with our cover letter templates and assembly resources designed to help you capture your personality and professionalism.
Use this Teacher cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Teacher positions in 2022. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Nursing
Standing out as a nursing applicant can be tough. Luckily you’ve got this sample application letter packed with the vital information for landing your dream position in a hospital or doctor’s office. This guide focuses on how to highlight your unique abilities and essential personality traits to impress a hiring manager immediately.
Whether you have years of experience in nursing or you’re just starting out, this application letter example will walk you through the steps to create a winning cover letter that demonstrates your ability to get the job done with empathy and confidence even in stressful situations.
Use this Nursing cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Nursing positions in 2022. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Scholarship
Scholarships are not only great resources to pay for your education, they’re also excellent for making connections in your chosen industry. In this sample, you’ll learn how scholarship application letters often differ from other types of cover letters and get an inside look at writing to impress scholarship committees.
Use this Scholarship cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Scholarship positions in 2022. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Receptionist
Receptionist positions can be extremely rewarding in the fact that they offer the chance to help a company succeed both internally and externally. They can also be great learning experiences and offer numerous opportunities for advancement. Our receptionist application letter sample breaks down the recipe for a great cover letter into manageable steps that can be used in any industry.
This receptionist application letter sample explores the importance of tailoring your cover letter to each individual position and looks at the ways you can use hiring psychology to your advantage. With expert tips for formatting and creating a customized image, this guide works perfectly with our professional templates and cover letter formatting resources.
Use this Receptionist cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Receptionist positions in 2022. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Engineering
To land your dream position as an engineer, you’ll need to show off your skills and achievements, but also the unique personality traits that make you a great fit for your potential employer. This engineering application letter sample breaks down the cover letter writing process into manageable steps to help you make a personal connection and a great first impression.
Our guide also covers professional formatting rules and how to choose the right layout for each potential position. Make sure your application letter’s image matches the quality of your experiences with our field-tested templates and easy-to-follow styling tips.
Use this Engineering cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Engineering positions in 2022. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Graphic Design
As a graphic designer, you know just how important presentation can be. Writing to impress a hiring manager in this highly visual field can be daunting, but our example application letter for a graphic design position can put you miles ahead no matter what experience level you have.
This sample guide discusses the importance of customizing your letter to make a personal connection with the hiring manager as well as how to create an attractive layout that captures your originality and unique contributions as a designer.
Use this Graphic Design cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Graphic Design positions in 2022. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Accounting
Our application letter samples for accountants help you highlight your precision and accuracy while adding just the right amount of personality to make you stand out. This example teaches you how to catch a hiring manager’s attention by making a personal connection and conveying your unique contributions to a potential employer.
Use this Accounting cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Accounting positions in 2022. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Cover Letter Examples
Below you’ll see cover letters for 100+ professions grouped by industry. Scroll down and you’ll get a breakdown of a perfect sample and suggestions for cover letter designs.
Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from 18 professional cover letter templates that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.
Sample cover letter for a resume made with our builder—See more templates and create your cover letter here.
One of our users, Nikos, had this to say:
[I used] a nice template I found on Zety. My resume is now one page long, not three. With the same stuff.
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Categories:
Creative & Cultural Fields
Government and NGOs
Hospitality Travel & Transportation
Information Technology (IT)
Law Enforcement & Emergency
Media and Entertainment
Medicine Healthcare & Wellbeing
Retail & Customer Service
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Professional Cover Letter Builder
Zety’s cover letter builder makes writing easy for you and less time-consuming, Use our beautiful, customizable templates recommended by HR pros to wow every recruiter.
Accounting & Finance Cover Letter Examples
Have a gig in finance or accounting? Want to move up the ladder? See our sample cover letters to get you there.
Creative & Cultural Fields Cover Letter Examples
No need to bury your creative side when choosing the right cover letter template, we’ve got you covered.
Construction Cover Letter Examples
You need the right blueprint to craft your own cover letter. With our sample cover letters, you’ll have the building block to finish yours quickly.
Education & Learning Cover Letter Examples
Think of our sample cover letters as an open book take-home test—just fill in the blanks with the right answers.
Engineering & Scientific Cover Letter Examples
Our cover letters have been tested in the field and the results come up positive. Replicate your own with our guides!
Food Service Cover Letter Examples
To have the crème de la crème of cover letters for the food service industry, use our guides as the perfect recipe to get you there.
Government and NGOs Cover Letter Examples
Make your cover letter as presidential as they come with our expert guidance for governmental or NGO jobs.
Hospitality Travel & Transportation Cover Letter Examples
Don’t take the hard road when crafting your cover letter—use our transportation and hospitality industry sample cover letters to get your profile revved up.
Information Technology (IT) Cover Letter Examples
You code Java in your sleep but come up on the zero binary end when writing a cover letter. Use our examples line by line and you’ll be done in no time.
Legal Cover Letter Examples
You need a legal cover letter that won’t result in a hung (recruiter) jury. Use our sample cover letters to get a unanimous victory.
Law Enforcement & Emergency Services Cover Letter Examples
Give the Chief probable cause to read your resume. A professional law enforcement and emergency services cover letter will show them why you’re the best choice.
Management & Leadership Cover Letter Examples
You know how to lead and use expert advice in the best way—follow our cover letter guides for management and leadership for 100% success.
Media and Entertainment Cover Letter Examples
Whether you craft compelling copy, take two on television, or report rumors and revelations, you know how to send a message. Show you’re the best fit for the job with inspiration from our media examples of a cover letter.
Medicine Healthcare & Wellbeing Cover Letter Examples
The small details are what matters in this field—the same applies to making your healthcare cover letter better than all others.
Manufacturing & Warehousing Cover Letter Examples
Prove you’ve got the right skills in stock using our expedited cover letter examples for warehousing and manufacturing.
Office & Administrative Cover Letter Examples
Any organization without you is like a car with no engine. These example cover letters will help you make it clear to employers you are that missing part.—show them how with a great office & administrative cover letter.
Retail & Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
You promise what you can deliver to your customers — we do the same with our job-winning customer service cover letter templates.
Sales & Marketing Cover Letter Examples
You know sales isn’t about manipulating—it’s about offering a solution to a problem. Our sample cover letter for sales jobs do just that.
Other Cover Letter Examples
Need a cover letter sample for different scenarios you find yourself in at this stage of your career? Check out the relevant cover letter templates you need here.
Examples of Cover Letter Templates
In my current position as a Junior Accountant with the Pasadena Unified School District, my key challenge has been planning an annual budget and updating monthly forecasts. Here are some of my recent results:
I know that Kaiser Permanente’s current plans involve moving to in-house accounting. It would be an exciting opportunity for me to use my skills to develop this project.
Can we schedule a meeting to discuss my solutions for helping Kaiser Permanente have proper in-house accounting?
General Cover Letter
A good cover letter is a personalized cover letter. Getting everything right takes time…and you need to submit your application right this second. Use this sample to create unique cover letters fast and easy—no matter if you need two or 20 versions.
I’m so excited to apply for the IT Project Manager position at Weniger Aerospace.
I know you’re looking for an IT PMP with 5+ years of experience. I’ve spent 6 years creating robust IT systems with these achievements in the skill areas in your ad:
I’m very interested in sharing how I can deliver IT PMP excellence at Weniger Aerospace. Can we schedule a call?
PS—I’m also happy to explain how I used Oracle Primavera to automate project tracking, eliminating 120+ work-hours per year.
Career Change Cover Letter
Most people don’t do the same job for years, but career changers get the double-take. This sample letter will show you how to prove you have what it takes to start a new career. Convince the employer you’re the perfect candidate with help from this example.
I was so excited when my protein shake packaging design was shortlisted for an Adobe Design Achievement Award.
It was no accident. Design has been a passion of mine since I was ten. I treated the coursework for my B.A. in Design at UMass Boston as a jumping-off point. My classes lit the way, but I dug in deeper with:
When Dr. Stanhope suggested I apply for this internship, his reasoning was flawless. Paralith’s commitment to developing its interns far beyond mere clock-punching speaks directly to my voracious appetite for continued growth.
I would love to put my passion and skill to work for you. Can we schedule a call to discuss winning awards and accolades for Paralith?
Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.
Internship Cover Letter
Landing an internship is tough. Landing a placement that opens you up to great opportunities is even harder. This sample will show you how to make the most of you skills, education, and attitude to win top companies over.
My name is Jean West, a junior at Greenville High Academy interested in becoming a public administrator in local government. I was thrilled to come across an opening for a Front Desk Clerk with the Greenville City Council. As the High School President and Model UN participant, I am a highly driven high school student who would help Greenville City Council’s administrative challenges.
I know the main duties for this position will be to maintain a professional relationship with visitors and answering multi-line phones and transferring calls to staff members. As the Student Body President, I’ve had to maintain a professional relationship with both students and staff, while being a representative for certain student body issues. We were able to introduce several new amendments to the student handbook and showed care and compassion to all students attending Greenville High Academy.
I am applying to the Greenville City Council specifically as a way to become more involved in local politics and further my professional growth in the field. This is why I’m so excited about this opening. I’d love the opportunity to be involved in local politics in a more fundamental way.
Can we schedule a call next week to discuss this position further?
Student Cover Letter
Your job search is a catch-22: you want to work, but haven’t done enough work to get hired. These cover letter examples will help you escape this vicious circle. Be yourself, we’ll just help you bring out the best in you and give the employers the best candidate: you.
I read the job posting carefully and spoke with several of your team members. I know the position calls for product knowledge, written and verbal communication, and a strong sense of who our customers are. I believe I’m the perfect fit. I’ve passed quarterly product knowledge quizzes with the highest scores in my department. I’ve used strong communication skills to achieve 95% positive customer survey scores and write up daily error-free reports. My department record of 75+ calls handled per day gives me an excellent understanding of our target demographic.
The most compelling part of this position to me is that it’s the perfect fit. I’ve dreamed of working as a digital marketing specialist at XYZ for the past seven years, taking fifteen online classes from Wharton and doing 20 freelance projects on nights and weekends.
My supervisor here at XYZ customer service is happy to let me meet with you any weekday. Can we set up a time to chat about how I can exceed your expectations as I’ve exceeded hers?
Internal Position Cover Letter
A new position opened up in your company. You know you’re the best match, but you’re worried you’ll get overlooked. There’s competition, it’s not clear who gets promoted or transitioned. These cover letter samples will show you how to get the credit you’re due.
Presently, I’m the retail operations assistant manager for Reston Raiment, but I just today saw your advertisement for a manager at Willis Wearables and I’m excited to put forth my application. I’ve been a semi-frequent customer of WW over the years, and I’ve always adored the quality of your products and the helpfulness of the staff.
During my managerial career, I’ve acquired many skills and much supervisory knowledge. These abilities, coupled with my 5+ years of management experience, make me a strong contender for this position, I believe. On top of those mentioned things, I’m also honored to have achieved some important small successes, including:
These are but a few examples, but I hope they help to show you my management experience, a love for the job, passion, and dedication. I’m eager for the opportunity to bring these characteristics over to a store I’ve always admired.
If you’d give me the chance, I’d love to show you how I can build upon your current success and take Willis Wearables to the next level.
Karen D. Valenzuela
P.S.—What would you say to having a coffee together? I know a great cafe near your store, and I’d be happy for the chance to discuss how I can bring an increase in sales (30%) to WW this upcoming holiday season.
Manager Cover Letter
What makes this sample cover letter great?
Quantifies and shows a good fit:
As a longtime fan of Acme’s company culture and products, I was excited to see the opening for an administrative assistant. With my lengthy experience as an administrative assistant with Fancy Malls, I know I can use my skill set and knowledge to become a valuable member of the Acme team.
In my current position with Fancy Malls, I’ve had many responsibilities and achievements that would serve me well in a role at Acme. Fancy Malls has a similar business structure and product lineup to those at Acme, so I believe I would make a smooth and quick transition. On top of that, my invoice management and directory maintenance were leading performance boosters for the company, and I’m sure that I could achieve similar results at Acme, such as:
Obtaining the administrative assistant position at Acme would be my dream come true. I’ve long been a fan and personal user of several of your products. In fact, Acme’s unique company culture is what prompted me to seek more challenging work. Though I love being in charge of a company’s multifaceted office support, there is no other office that would make me as happy to work for. I know, should I be honored with the position, that I’d be the envy of my circle of friends!
I would eagerly welcome the opportunity to discuss your current administrative objectives and show you how my successes at Fancy Malls can translate into growth for Acme.
Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
What makes this sample cover letter stand out?
Shows skills like a Swiss Army knife:
How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job in 2022 + Examples
You need to write a cover letter, but what is a cover letter, exactly? And what’s the best way to write it? Learn how to write a cover letter with expert tips and examples.
Unlike a resume, a cover letter lets you can introduce yourself to the hiring manager, provide context for your achievements and qualifications, and explain your motivation for joining the company.
But you can’t just write a cover letter. It has to be perfect. So… How do you write the perfect cover letter You know—the kind of letter that will make the employer call you up in the middle of the night? Give us 10 minutes and you’ll know how to write a cover letter like that.
This guide will show you:
Have a specific job in mind? Find the right cover letter sample for your job among
Writer’s block? Let us write your cover letter for you. Tell us your name, job title, and years of experience. And get an automatically generated professional cover letter in less than a minute. Plus, you can pick from 20+ cover letter templates that match your resume!
Sample cover letter for a resume—See more cover letter samples here.
One of our users, Nikos, had this to say:
[I used] a nice template I found on Zety. My resume is now one page long, not three. With the same stuff.
What Is a Cover Letter?
You were ready to apply for that awesome job, but when reading the job advertisement, you stumbled across three words: attach a cover letter. Now, you’re scratching your head and wondering: What is a cover letter for a resume? How do I write one?
Don’t panic. We’ll tell you everything, from start to finish.
What Is a Cover Letter for a Job?
A is a document attached to a job application designed to introduce the candidate in a more personal way. It should complement the information from a resume or CV, expanding on the skills and achievements and highlighting a selection of the most relevant accomplishments.
See? It’s not rocket science. It’s just a letter that supports your job application.
What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?
There are several reasons why hiring managers request cover letters and why job applicants should write them. The main reason is that the cover letter can provide additional, more personal information—something difficult to grasp reading a resume.
Here are other things that the cover letter is for:
And that’s why it’s worth spending some time writing a great cover letter that does all of the above.
Now that you know what a cover letter is and what’s the point of a cover letter, it’s time to learn other things.
How to Write a Cover Letter?
Watch a video to uncover the simple truths of writing a cover letter for a job:
Worried you might miss something? You can relax. We’ve got a checklist guide for you: What to Include in a Cover Letter
Without further ado, let’s move on to detailed instructions on how to write a successful cover letter:
1. Start With a Header
Yup, the basics first. The cover letter header should include the following:
Optionally, you can add:
Just remember to keep it professional:
Want to save time and have your professional job application ready in minutes? Here are a sample cover letter and a matching resume made with our resume and cover letter builder. Check our resume templates matching your cover letter’s here.
Resume and a sample cover letter for a job application. See 18 professional resume templates here.
2. Address the Reader
Who do you address a cover letter to?
Directly to the hiring manager who’ll read it.
The greeting of your cover letter (i.e., the salutation) might be the very first thing the hiring manager sees. That makes it one of the most important parts of a cover letter. There’s one great, foolproof strategy to make your greeting catch their attention:
That’s right. Their name.
If we hear or see our name, we react. There’s a lot of science behind this:
Once the hiring manager sees their name in the greeting of your cover letter, they will feel like they’ve found something tailored specifically for them. It will feel personal; they’ll know whatever comes next might just be the exact information they’ve been looking for.
All of the following are good examples of professional cover letter greetings:
Pro Tip: Wondering whether you should use the hiring manager’s first or last name? That depends on the company culture. Use the first name if you’re applying for a position with a relaxed, casual company. For corporate cover letters, it’s safer to use the addressee’s last name.
How do you find out the hiring manager’s name?
Look into the job description to see if the recruiter left their name or go to the company’s LinkedIn page. You should find recruiters there responsible for uploading the job offers.
There are multiple ways to find out who your hiring manager is. You can learn about them in our dedicated guide: How to Address a Cover Letter: Sample & Guide [20+ Examples]
Who to address a cover letter if no hiring manager’s name is provided?
If you can’t find the name by any means possible, opt for Dear Hiring Manager. Avoid starting your cover letter «to whom it may concern.» And if you’re not living in Victorian England, don’t start a cover letter with “Dear Sir or Madam.”
Have a look at those sample cover letter greetings:
Done with the header and greeting? Now it’s time for the meat and potatoes. The central paragraphs of your cover letter.
3. Show Your Enthusiasm in the Opening
Here’s the brutal truth:
These few sentences at the beginning of your cover letter will determine whether the hiring manager will read on.
You need to make your cover letter introduction attract and hold the hiring manager’s interest.
There are a few different, effective strategies for your cover letter opening. You can highlight your achievements, show how well you know your prospective employer’s needs, or base the intro on your enthusiasm.
Have a look at these two sample cover letter opening paragraphs:
In response to your posting for the Digital Marketing Manager, I would like to express my interest in taking part in the recruitment process. As a digital marketing manager with 8+ years of experience, I am positive that I would succeed in this role.
Because it provides no value and details, the bottom line is: “I’ve already done this job, so I think I’d fit in.” And it’s not enough for someone with more than eight years of experience to get the job.
Now, see a properly written cover letter opening example:
“Wow, I’d have to be a lunatic not to hire her!”
That’s the response this cover letter’s first paragraph will bring.
What if you’re creating a cover letter for an internship and don’t have any achievements to present? Don’t worry. We’ve got a dedicated guide to show you how to write a good cover letter and land your dream internship: How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship [+20 Examples]
4. Explain Why You’re the Perfect Fit
What to write in a cover letter’s second paragraph?
You need to get the hiring manager exactly what they’re looking for. You have to show that you will satisfy the company’s specific needs.
Remember Jane, our digital marketing manager candidate? The XYZ company to which she’s applying needs:
Let’s look at how Jane managed to show that she’s both:
In my current position at ABC, I have supervised all phases of our online marketing initiatives, both technical and creative (1). Last year, my key challenge was to design and optimize nine product websites for ABC’s most strategic products and improve our SEO results as well as enhance the UX (2). Here we are a year later:
In the first sentence, show that you’re an expert in your field. But don’t keep on bragging. The remaining part of your cover letter’s second paragraph should be all about how your previous experiences will help your future employer press ahead with their plans.
Job seekers impress employers by identifying transferable skills related to new positions. People often apply to new positions, so it’s likely you’ll not have the exact experience requested. But employers would rather know how your past experiences will inform future decisions. You were a hostess? Relate those management and organizational skills to the Executive Assistant position.
Lauren Little Career Coach
Now see what you should not do:
At ABC, I was a leader of a three-person digital marketing team, ensuring the results are delivered and deadlines are met.
The websites my team worked on achieved top results on Google for key terms and phrases.
You should understand the difference real quick. There’s a digital marketing leader with some results, true. But the hiring manager is looking for key metrics, numbers, and accomplishments that this particular candidate lacks.
Pro tip: If you’re looking to work for a company, but there aren’t any open positions, try writing a letter of interest for a job. It’s a great way of uncovering vacancies that aren’t even advertised.
When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check. Start building a professional resume template here for free.
When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and tell you exactly how to make it better.
5. Show Your Motivation to Join the Company
Your future employers have needs. If they’re willing to hire you, it’s because they think you’ll satisfy those needs.
But what they also want is for you to actually enjoy working with them. They want your future job to feel rewarding to you—that way, they know you’re more likely to stay with them for a longer period of time.
The third paragraph of the key to writing a perfect cover letter is showing the hiring manager why you want this job, not just any job. This is particularly important when writing an entry-level cover letter. Enthusiasm and passion help to prove you’ll hit the ground running.
Above all, you want to avoid writing too much of a general cover letter. Generic doesn’t win jobs, tailored and targeted does.
Here’s the easiest way to do it:
Have a look at this cover letter example:
I know that XYZ’s current plans involve developing a comprehensive online portal focused on healthcare-related issues (1). This project is a perfect match for my personal and professional interests and an exciting opportunity to create a unique online base of knowledge for patients and healthcare professionals (2). I would love to leverage my knowledge of SEO marketing and online growth marketing to achieve groundbreaking results with this initiative (3).
And now check this one:
XYZ looks like a fantastic opportunity for me. I thrive in fast-paced environments and would love to leverage my current skillset to do better for your company.
What did I say about generic? It’s a no from the start. Recruiters don’t want to see generic cover letters that were made for anyone. They want to read cover letters written with their specific requirements in mind.
Wondering how to write a good cover letter for a job application when there’s no job offer? Want to see some general cover letter writing tips? Read our handy guide, 35+ Successful Cover Letter Tips, Advice & Guidelines (With Examples), and learn about effective cover letter strategies for different types of cover letters!
Pro Tip: How long should a cover letter be? In general, a relevant and short cover letter is best. Three paragraphs tops. Your go-to word count shouldn’t exceed 300 words.
6. Close With a Promise
How to make the best cover letter ending?
Long story short: by providing value.
Tell the hiring manager that you’re looking forward to meeting in person and discussing how your experience and knowledge can help your future employer in fulfilling their goals.
Like in this cover letter example:
I would welcome the chance to discuss your digital marketing objectives and show you how my success at ABC can translate into digital and online marketing growth for XYZ.
Two worst cover letter mistakes you can make in the final paragraph are:
You can use some easy tricks to write an effective cover letter closing paragraph. Make sure to read our guide, How to End a Cover Letter: Sample & Complete Guide [+20 Examples], and check them out!
7. Stay Formal in the Closing Salutation
Once you’ve written the body of your cover letter, you just need to put a formal closing at the very end.
Write “Sincerely” and follow it with your full name. Adding your handwritten signature is optional, but it’s recommended for more formal cover letters.
If you’re not a fan of the well-worn, “Sincerely,” feel free to use any of the following synonyms:
The ones listed above are going to be your safest bets. Still not what you’re looking for?
Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to repeat your basic contact information, such as your LinkedIn profile, email address, and telephone number below your sign-off.
8. Add a Postscript
All of the above sections are must-haves in a good cover letter format. But there’s one special trick you can use:
Why is the “P.S.” so important? Because it’s like a magnet for the hiring manager’s eyes. It screams: “you cannot miss this information.”
Use the postscript to tell the hiring manager about something impressive about your career (1), even if it’s not strictly related to the job opening.
And say that you’d be happy to provide them with more details (2) if they find it interesting.
Like in our cover letter example:
P.S. — I would also value the opportunity to show you (2) how my e-detailing solutions grew the combined sales of three ABC flagship products by a record-breaking 13% in one year (1).
Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here’s what it may look like:
Key Takeaway
For the final thought on how to write a cover letter:
Thank you for taking the time to read my article!
Do you have any questions about how to make a cover letter? Want to share an example of a cover letter? Give us a shout in the comments and we’d be happy to reply!
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Write a Cover Letter
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a formal letter that accompanies a CV or a resume. It includes a candidate’s introduction and an overview of the candidate’s qualifications, skills, and accomplishments most relevant to the job they’re pursuing. The cover letter also serves to express the candidate’s interest in the position and the company, as well as eagerness to contribute to the company’s success. It can also help to explain employment gaps.
What are the four parts of a cover letter?
What should a cover letter say?
That you’re the one. That you want them, but that they want you, too. That you’re the solution to their problems. That’s what your cover letter should say.
How to write a simple cover letter?
To make cover letter writing simple, you need to know a couple of things first:
How to write a cover letter for an internship?
A cover letter to an internship resume is a fantastic way to shoo away your competition. So don’t hesitate and write a cover letter for an internship you’ve dreamt of for too long.
First and foremost, prove to your potential employer that you’re worth hiring, and that they’re a great company to work for. Do your research and don’t be shy to show what you’ve learned. Later use that knowledge to give away your connection to the company and its values. Show your transferable skillset and achievements, and let your determination and motivation do their magic.
How to write a cover letter for 2022?
In 2022, write your cover letter with these simple steps:
Is a cover letter necessary?
Almost half of the recruiters reject applications without a cover letter. Cover letters are a treat for those who still care to hire dedicated professionals. (And that’s you, right?)
It’s no surprise, though, that you’re questioning whether a cover letter is necessary. The entire job application process can be exhausting, so cutting down on documents you have to produce always seems like a good idea. But not this time.
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Lauren Little Career Coach

