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How to Write a Job Application Cover Letter
Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.
Write a First Draft
Writing a first draft makes your letter concise and professional, states The Balance Careers. Organize your thoughts by making a list of what you’re trying to convey. Make sure you prioritize certain aspects like your previous job experience and why you would be a good fit for the position. Clearly state what position you’re interested in and why. Think about why you’re applying and what caught your eye about this specific position. Your cover letter will be easier to write after your thoughts are collected and organized.
Customize Your Salutation
When writing a salutation, make sure you know who you are writing to. Is this person the owner of the company or a Human Resources administrator? If you’re not sure, research the company to find out. Addressing your cover letter to a specific person shows initiative and attention to detail. After your salutation, start your letter with a short introduction of yourself. This gives future employers insight into who you are and the purpose of your cover letter.
Write Intentionally
Your cover letter should be no more than one page, so keep your points brief. Clearly state what position you are interested in and why. Explain why you are a good fit for the company because of your past job experience. If you have no similar job experience, let the employer know why you are changing career paths. Expand on your skills and give specific examples of how that skill set helped you at your last position. Name projects you’ve worked on and show results.
Close Your Letter
End your cover letter with a brief sentence and sign off. Thank the employer for their time and express your interest towards the job again. Let them know you’ll follow up with them if you do not hear back within a week and leave your contact information. Sign off with a professional farewell and leave room for a signature if sending a hard copy.
Edit and Proofread
As you finish writing your cover letter, make sure you take time to edit and proofread your document. Make sure it’s structured in a professional format with the company’s information, the salutation and introduction, the body of the letter, a brief closing sentence and farewell. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes to ensure a formal result. Make sure all names are spelled correctly, as well.
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How to Write a Cover Letter in 2023 | 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.
- What’s a cover letter & why it’s important for your job search
- How to write a convincing cover letter that gets you the job (step-by-step!)
- How to perfect your cover letter with the Novoresume free checklist
- What excellent cover letter examples look like
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:
- Header - Input contact information
- Greeting the hiring manager
- Opening paragraph - Grab the reader’s attention with 2-3 of your top achievements
- Second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job
- Third paragraph - Explain why you’re a good match for the company
- Formal closing
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.
Step #1 - Pick the Right Cover Letter Template
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.
Step #2 - Start the Cover Letter with a Header
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:
- Phone Number
- Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
- Name of the company you’re applying to
In certain cases, you might also consider adding:
- Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
- Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your blog.
And here’s what you shouldn’t mention in your header:
- Your Full Address
- Unprofessional Email - Make sure your email is presentable. It’s pretty hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected]” Whenever applying for jobs, stick to the “[first name] + [last name] @ email provider.com” format.
Step #3 - Greet the Hiring Manager
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:
- Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
- Dear Hiring Manager
- To whom it may concern
- Dear [Department] Team
Step #4 - Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction
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..
- Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.
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:
My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed their sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the job.
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...
Step #5 - Explain why you’re the perfect person for the job
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.
But first things first - before you even write anything, you need to learn what the most important requirements for the role are. So, open up the job ad and identify which of the responsibilities are the most critical.
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:
- Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
- Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
- Excellent copywriting skills
Now, in this section, you need to discuss how you fulfill these requirements. So, here’s how that would look for our example:
In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation & management process end-to-end. Meaning, I created the ad copy , images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.
Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:
- Google Search
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.
Step #6 - Explain why you’re a good fit for the company
Once you’ve written the last paragraph, you might be thinking - I’m a shoo-in for the job! What else do I need to write? I’ll just wrap up the cover letter and hit that sweet SEND button.
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:
- What’s the company’s business model?
- What’s the company product or service? Have you used it?
- What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?
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.
The same goes for “values of integrity and transparency” - the writer just googled what the values for the organization are, and said that they like them.
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.
Step #7 - Wrap up with a call to action
Finally, it’s time to finish up your cover letter and write the conclusion.
In the final paragraph, you want to:
- Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? Any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision? Mention it here.
- Thank the hiring manager for their time. It never hurts to be courteous, as long as you don’t come off as too needy.
- Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. You should ask the hiring manager to take some sort of action.
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.
Step #8 - Use the right formal closing
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:
- Best Regards,
- Kind Regards,
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?
- Professional email
- Relevant Social Media Profiles
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?
- Did you mention 2-3 of your top achievements?
- Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
Do you successfully convey that you’re the right pro for the job?
- Did you identify the core requirements?
- Did you successfully convey how your experiences help you fit the requirements perfectly?
Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?
- Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
- Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?
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 .
Next Steps in Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume
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.
If you want to learn more about Resumes & CVs, we have a dedicated FREE guide for that. Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume , as well as how to write a CV - our experts will teach you everything you need to know in order to land your dream job.
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:
- A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that convinces the hiring manager of your competence
- A cover letter goes in your job application alongside your resume
- Your introduction to the cover letter should grab the hiring manager’s attention and keep it all the way until the conclusion
- There are 2 main topics you need to include in your cover letter: why you’re the perfect candidate for the job & why you’re passionate about working in the company you’re applying to
- Most of the content of your cover letter should be factual , without any fluff or generalizations
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…
- How to Write a Motivational Letter
- How to Write a Resume with No Work Experience
- Most Common Interview Questions and Answers
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- Cover Letter
How to Write a Cover Letter for Any Job in 8 Steps (2023)
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 the best way with tips from experts.
As seen in:
Unlike a resume, a cover letter lets you introduce yourself to the hiring manager, provide context for your achievements and qualifications, and explain your motivation to join the company.
But you can’t just write a cover letter. It has to be perfect. So… How do you write the ideal 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:
- How to write a cover letter for a job application better than 9 out of 10 others.
- A sample cover letter that will get you more interviews.
- Cover letter writing tips and hacks to boost your chances of landing a job.
- Step-by-step instructions for making a cover letter in our online builder.
Have a specific job in mind? Find the right cover letter sample for your job among Cover Letter Examples for All Professions
And if you experience writer’s block, let us write your cover letter for you. Tell us your name, job title, and years of experience to get an automatically generated cover letter in less than a minute. Pick from 18+ cover letter templates and match your resume!
Create your cover letter now
Sample cover letter for a resume— See more cover letter samples here .
What Is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter 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 hiring managers request cover letters, and 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. But it also:
- Makes you stand out from other applicants
- Expresses your interest in the position
- Shows your knowledge about the company
- Presents how your skills and experience can assist the company
- Proves you understand the needs of the company
And that’s why it’s worth spending some time writing a great cover letter that does all of the above. So let’s learn how to.
How to Write a Cover Letter
Watch the video to uncover the simple truth 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
Let’s now move on to detailed instructions on how to write a successful cover letter:
1. Start With a Header
Ideally, your cover letter header should be the same as in your resume for consistency. So use the same template and don’t worry about the design. If you prefer to make one from scratch, though, include the following contact information:
- Telephone number
- Email address
Pro Tip: If you send your cover letter via email , don’t use your current work email address. It’s impolite to your current and potential employer.
2. Address the Reader
Once you’re done with the header, mention the location and date of writing. Then follow with your reader’s details like this:
Use the below template to format yours:
[Location, MM/DD/YYYY]
[Hiring Manager’s or Recruiter’s Name]
[Hiring Manager’s or Recruiter’s Job Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Now, address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager, no two ways about it. And use their name in the cover letter salutation . According to the study , we tend to react actively to hearing or seeing one’s name. Use that knowledge to catch their attention.
Choose from the below 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 to a relaxed, casual company. For corporate cover letters, it’s safer to use the addressee's last name.
To find 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 people there responsible for uploading the job offers.
If you can’t find the name by any means possible, opt for Dear Hiring Manager . Avoid starting your cover letter with To Whom It May Concern like the plague. And if you’re not living in Victorian England, don’t start a cover letter with Dear Sir or Madam either.
3. Make a Proper Introduction
Here’s the brutal truth: these few sentences at the beginning of your cover letter will determine whether the hiring manager will read on. So you need to start your cover letter in a way that attracts and holds the reader’s interest.
There are a few different, effective strategies for your cover letter opening . You can highlight your achievements, display your passion and enthusiasm, or drop names.
Have a look at these two sample cover letter opening paragraphs:
Why is the wrong example so bad? 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.
No achievements yet? Don’t worry. We’ve got a dedicated guide to show you how to write a good cover letter and land your dream internship: Internship Cover Letter
4. Explain Why You’re the Perfect Fit
Your second paragraph needs to give the hiring manager what they’re looking for and show that you’ll satisfy the company’s specific needs.
Remember Jane, our digital marketing manager candidate? The XYZ company she applies to needs:
- First of all, a savvy digital marketing manager (1) .
- And, on top of that, someone who will supervise the development of their new online portal (2) .
Let’s look at how Jane managed to show that she’s both:
Wondering how to say that in your cover letter ? In the first sentence, prove that you’re an expert in your field but don’t keep on bragging. The remaining part 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
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 they also want you to enjoy working with them—that way, they know you’re more likely to stay with them for longer.
The key to writing a perfect third paragraph is showing the hiring manager why you want this job, not just any job. This is particularly important when making an entry-level cover letter . Enthusiasm and passion help prove you'll hit the ground running.
Have a look at these cover letter examples:
Above all, you want to avoid writing too much of a general cover letter . Generic doesn't win jobs; tailored and targeted does.
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.
6. Close With a Promise
How to make the best cover letter ending? By providing value. The worst mistakes you can make in the final paragraph are coming off needy, focusing on how much you want the job, not on what you have to offer, and repeating the clichéd phrase “Thank you for your consideration and your time.”
Instead, 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 fulfill their goals. Like here:
Trying to find exciting ways to end your cover letter, but to no avail? See how to write a convincing final paragraph here: How to Successfully Close a Cover Letter
Want to save time and have your professional job application ready in minutes? Here are a sample cover letter and a matching resume made using Zety builder. Pick a cover letter template and build a coordinating job application.
See more cover letter samples and start writing.
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:
- Best regards,
- Kind regards,
- Respectfully yours,
- With best regards,
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—the postscript. Why is it so important? Because it’s like a magnet for the hiring manager’s eyes that screams: “you cannot miss this information.”
Use the postscript to tell the hiring manager about something impressive about your career, even if it’s not strictly related to the job opening. And say that you’d be happy to provide them with more details if they find it interesting.
9. Double-Check the Formatting
Before you hit send, make sure your cover letter formatting is intact. Here’s everything you need to know:
- Choose a legible cover letter font like Arial or Garamond, and keep it between 10 and 12 points in font size.
- Set even margins on all sides. 1-inch margins should be perfect.
- Left-align all your contents.
- Use double cover letter spacing between paragraphs and 1–1.15 between lines.
- Be sure to keep your cover letter length to one page.
- Title your cover letter by JobTitle—CoverLetter—YourName .
- Let your cover letter layout stay intact en route to the recruiter by saving the file in PDF.
The final step of writing your cover letter is, in fact, checking up on your resume to see if they both match the job requirements. Make sure you meet your hiring manager's expectations to the best of your ability.
How to Write a Cover Letter Using an Online Builder
Not enough time? Or maybe a few too many jobs to apply for? Try giving an online cover letter builder a go to write and tailor your cover letter in a flash.
Let’s walk you through the five stages of making a cover letter in the Zety builder:
1. Choose Where to Start
Depending on your preference, you can either create a cover letter from scratch or use the resume upload feature. The latter allows you to import the information from your resume into the cover letter, and it proves useful when applying for multiple jobs. (Of course, assuming you tailored your resume to every job description you’re after!)
2. Target the Specific Job
Now’s the time to detail your cover letter. Let us know which position you’re chasing, along with the company name.
Based on the position you selected, pick your top skills that should make it to the cover letter. But! Choose wisely. Recruiters may not treat all skills with the same importance. Use the job description to find out which are the most desired and highlight them in the letter.
3. Include Your Background Information
Choose how many years of relevant experience you have, which also involves internships or volunteer gigs . Depending on your selection, you’ll be prompted to say more about your education or work history.
If you have any gaps in your employment , you’ll also have a chance to disclose and explain them.
4. Establish Your Working Style
As the final part, help us personalize your cover letter by selecting the working style that best describes you. This will set the right tone for your application.
5. Double-Check and Download
Once you’re done filling out the information, see if there’s everything you expected. There might be cover letter sections that you need but which aren’t the default. Don’t worry! By using the Add Section function, you can include information detailing, for example, your availability or expected salary.
Now that you have the contents ready, use the bar below to swap the templates, pick the correct formatting, or choose colors. Keep in mind that it’s best when your cover letter matches your resume.
Et voilà! Your cover letter is ready. Download it in either .docx or PDF format, depending on your recruiter's wishes.
Key Takeaway
For the final thought on how to write a cover letter in 8 steps:
- Ensure your contact info in the header is correct.
- Address your hiring manager or recruiter personally.
- Attract their attention in the introduction.
- Use your experience to prove you're the exact match to the company's needs.
- Explain your motivation and fit for the position.
- Finish with a call to action and ask for a meeting.
- Be formal in the closing sentiment.
- Include a postscript.
Or use the cover letter builder to remember it all for you!
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’ll 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?
- Cover letter header with your contact information such as full name, phone number, and email address
- Cover letter introduction with your hiring manager’s address and a hook that hypes the reader up so much that they can’t stop reading
- Cover letter body with a description of your significant accomplishments and strengths that you’ll bring to the table. (Beware! It’s not a copy of your resume.)
- Cover letter closing with a call to action and your signature
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 .
And you can achieve all of that by having a number of things in your cover letter :
- action verbs and power words
- accomplishment statements
- organized cover letter layout , and
- enthusiastic but determined tone of voice
How to write a simple cover letter?
To make cover letter writing simple, you need to know a couple of things first:
- Create proper cover letter formatting before putting down words. You’ll ensure a correct structure and that you’ll fit onto one page with your cover letter.
- Find your hiring manager’s or recruiter’s name. By personalizing your cover letter, you have a higher chance of landing the gig.
- Create a list of job keywords you need to target with your application. Have a look at the job ad and mark those words which speak of necessary qualifications and qualities. Then use them in your paragraphs.
- Never lie in your job application .
- And lastly, do as extensive research about the company as possible. The intricate details about their mission, values, and vision will help you find an angle to write your cover letter.
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 2023?
In 2023, write your cover letter with these simple steps:
- Create a consistent look by mirroring a resume header to your template.
- Make a clean cover letter layout to keep enough whitespace on the page.
- Find an angle to write your cover letter—motivation to advance, shared values or mission statement, recent developments in the industry. Doing thorough research always helps.
- Start your cover letter with a relevant accomplishment that makes the reader want to carry on.
- Create a smooth transition from the hook through your strengths to motivation in 3 to 4 paragraphs, tops.
- Call your recruiter to action in the cover letter closing and ask for a meeting with you.
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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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.
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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 2023. 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 2023. 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 2023. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
Whether you’re a recent graduate from a teaching program or looking to make a big career leap in education , landing a fresh job as a teacher doesn’t have to be stressful. This guide explores the way school systems hire for open positions giving you the inside knowledge to surpass other candidates and win your dream job.
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 2023. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
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 2023. 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.
This scholarship application letter example covers all aspects of the process from writing with enthusiasm and personality to exploring the correct tone to use when making requests of scholarship donors and committees. Go forth confidently with our professionally-designed templates and cover letter builder .
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 2023. 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 2023. 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 2023. 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 2023. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
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.
As an accountant, you’ll want to make sure your cover letter’s image matches the professional writing of your letter . Our expertly-designed templates with pre-written example sentences make it easy to bring all the elements together for an application that maximizes your chances of landing the perfect position.
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 2023. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.
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How to Write a Cover Letter
Advice for tackling one of the toughest parts of the job-hunting process.
Perhaps the most challenging part of the job application process is writing an effective cover letter. And yes, you should send one. Even if only one in two cover letters gets read, that’s still a 50% chance that including one could help you. Before you start writing, find out more about the company and the specific job you want. Next, catch the attention of the hiring manager or recruiter with a strong opening line. If you have a personal connection with the company or someone who works there, mention it in the first sentence or two, and try to address your letter to someone directly. Hiring managers are looking for people who can help them solve problems, so show that you know what the company does and some of the challenges it faces. Then explain how your experience has equipped you to meet those needs. If the online application doesn’t allow you to submit a cover letter, use the format you’re given to demonstrate your ability to do the job and your enthusiasm for the role.
No one likes job hunting. Scouring through online job listings, spiffing up your résumé , prepping for grueling interviews — none of it is fun. For many, the most challenging part of the process is writing an effective cover letter. There’s so much conflicting advice out there, it’s hard to know where to start. Do you even need one, especially if you’re applying through an online system?
What the Experts Say
The answer is almost always yes. Sure, there will be times when you’re submitting an application online and you may not be able to include one, but whenever possible, send one, says Jodi Glickman, a communications expert and author of Great on the Job . “It’s your best chance of getting the attention of the HR person or hiring manager and an important opportunity to distinguish yourself from everyone else.” And in a tight job market, setting yourself apart is critical, says John Lees, a UK-based career strategist and author of Knockout CV . Still, as anyone who’s ever written a cover letter knows, it’s not easy to do well. Here are some tips to help.
Do your research first.
Before you start writing, find out more about the company and the specific job you want. Of course, you should carefully read the job description, but also peruse the company’s website, its executives’ Twitter feeds, and employee profiles on LinkedIn. This research will help you customize your cover letter, since you shouldn’t send a generic one. It’ll also help you decide on the right tone. “Think about the culture of the organization you’re applying to,” advises Glickman. “If it’s a creative agency, like a design shop, you might take more risks, but if it’s a more conservative organization, like a bank, you may hold back.”
If at all possible, reach out to the hiring manager or someone else you know at the company before writing your cover letter, advises Lees. You can send an email or a LinkedIn message “asking a smart question about the job.” That way you can start your letter by referencing the interaction. You might say, “Thanks for the helpful conversation last week” or “I recently spoke to so-and-so at your company.” Of course, it’s not always possible to contact someone — or you may not get a response. That’s OK. It’s still worth a try.
Focus it on the future.
While your résumé is meant to be a look back at your experience and where you’ve been, the cover letter should focus on the future and what you want to do, says Glickman. “It can be helpful to think of it as the bridge between the past and the future that explains what you hope to do next and why.” Because of the pandemic there is less of an expectation that you’ll be applying for a job that you’ve done before. “There are millions of people who are making career changes — voluntarily or involuntarily — and need to pivot and rethink how their skill set relates to a different role or industry,” says Glickman. You can use your cover letter to explain the shift you’re making, perhaps from hospitality to marketing, for example. Think of it as an opportunity to sell your transferrable skills .
Open strong.
“People typically write themselves into the letter with ‘I’m applying for X job that I saw in Y place.’ That’s a waste,” says Lees. Instead, lead with a strong opening sentence . “Start with the punch line — why this job is exciting to you and what you bring to the table,” says Glickman. For example, you might write, “I’m an environmental fundraising professional with more than 15 years of experience looking for an opportunity to apply my skills in new ways, and I’d love to bring my expertise and enthusiasm to your growing development team.” Then you can include a sentence or two about your background and your relevant experience, but don’t rehash your résumé.
Read more about
How to Write a Resume That Stands Out
Chances are the hiring manager or recruiter is reading a stack of these, so you want to catch their attention. But don’t try to be funny. “Humor can often fall flat or sound self-regarding,” says Lees. Stay away from common platitudes, too. “Say something direct and dynamic, such as ‘Let me draw your attention to two reasons why I’d be a great addition to your team.'”
If you have a personal connection with the company or someone who works there, also mention it in the first sentence or two. And always address your letter to someone directly. “With social media, it’s often possible to find the name of a hiring manager,” says Glickman.
Emphasize your personal value.
Hiring managers are looking for people who can help them solve problems. Drawing on the research you did earlier, show that you know what the company does and some of the challenges it faces. These don’t need to be specific but you might mention how the industry has been affected by the pandemic. For example, you might write, “A lot of health care companies are overwhelmed with the need to provide high-quality care while protecting the health and safety of their staff.” Then talk about how your experience has equipped you to meet those needs; perhaps explain how you solved a similar problem in the past or share a relevant accomplishment. You want to provide evidence of the things that set you apart.
Lees points out that there are two skills that are relevant to almost any job right now: adaptability and the ability to learn quickly. If you have brief examples that demonstrate these skills, include those. For example, if you supported your team in the shift to remote work, describe how you did that and what capabilities you drew on.
Convey enthusiasm.
“When you don’t get hired, it’s usually not because of a lack of skills,” says Glickman. “It’s because people didn’t believe your story, that you wanted the job, or that you knew what you were getting into.” Hiring managers are going to go with the candidate who has made it seem like this is their dream job. So make it clear why you want the position . “Enthusiasm conveys personality,” Lees adds. He suggests writing something like “I’d love to work for your company. Who wouldn’t? You’re the industry leader, setting standards that others only follow.” Don’t bother applying if you’re not excited about some aspect of the company or role.
Watch the tone.
At the same time, don’t go overboard with the flattery or say anything you don’t mean. Authenticity is crucial. “Even if you’ve been out of work for months, and would take any job at this point, you want to avoid sounding desperate ,” says Lees. You don’t want your tone to undermine your message, so be professional and mature. A good rule of thumb is to put yourself in the shoes of the hiring manager and think about “the kind of language that the hiring manager would use with one of the company’s customers.” Of course, it can be hard to discern your own tone in writing, so you may need to ask someone to review a draft (which is always a good idea anyway — see advice below). Lees says that he often cuts outs “anything that sounds like desperation” when he’s reviewing letters for clients.
Keep it short.
Much of the advice out there says to keep it under a page. But both Glickman and Lees say even shorter is better. “Most cover letters I see are too long,” says Lees. “It should be brief enough that someone can read it at a glance.” You do have to cover a lot of ground — but you should do it succinctly. This is where asking a friend, former colleague, or mentor to review your letter can be helpful. Ask them to read through it and point out places where you can cut.
Get feedback.
In fact, it’s a great idea to share your cover letter with a few people, says Lees. Rather than sending it off and asking, “What do you think?” be specific about the kind of feedback you want. In particular, request two things. First, ask your friend if it’s clear what your main point is. What’s the story you’re telling? Are they able to summarize it? Second, ask them what’s wrong with the letter. “Other people are more attuned to desperation, overselling, over-modesty, and underselling,” says Lees, and they should be able to point out places where the tone is off.
When you can’t submit a cover letter.
Many companies now use online application systems that don’t allow for a cover letter. You may be able to figure out how to include one in the same document as your résumé, but that’s not a guarantee, especially because some systems only allow for data to be entered into specific boxes. In these cases, use the format you’re given to demonstrate your ability to do the job and your enthusiasm for the role. If possible, you may try to find someone to whom you can send a brief follow-up email highlighting a few key points about your application.
Principles to Remember
- Have a strong opening statement that makes clear why you want the job and what you bring to the table.
- Be succinct — a hiring manager should be able to read your letter at a glance.
- Share an accomplishment that shows you can address the challenges the employer is facing.
- Try to be funny — too often it falls flat.
- Send a generic cover letter — customize each one for the specific job.
- Go overboard with flattery — be professional and mature.
Advice in Practice
Case study #1: demonstrate an understanding of what the company needs..
Michele Sommers, the vice president of HR for the Boys & Girls Village, a nonprofit in Connecticut, recently posted a job for a recruiting and training specialist. “I was looking for someone with a strong recruiting background who could do everything from sourcing candidates to onboarding new hires,” she says. She also wanted the person to hit the ground running. “We’re a small team and I can’t afford to train someone,” she says.
More than 100 candidates applied for the job. The organization’s online application system doesn’t allow for cover letter attachments, but one of the applicants, Heidi (not her real name), sent a follow-up email after submitting her résumé. “And it’s a good thing she did, because she would’ve been weeded out otherwise,” Michele says.
Heidi’s résumé made her look like a “job hopper” — very short stints at each previous employer. Michele assumed she was a poor performer who kept getting fired. She was also the only candidate who didn’t have a four-year college degree.
But Heidi’s email caught Michele’s eye. First off, it was professional. Heidi stated clearly that she was writing to double-check that her application had been received. She went on to explain how she had gotten Michele’s name and information (through her husband’s boss, who was on the board) and her personal connection to Boys & Girls Village (her father-in-law had done some work with the organization).
Further Reading
Stand Out in Your Interview
What really stood out to Michele, though, was Heidi’s understanding of the group and the challenges it was facing. She’d done her research and “listed some things she would do or already had done that would help us address those needs,” says Michele.
“The personality and passion she conveyed in the cover letter came through during her phone screening,” Michele says. Heidi ended up being more than qualified for the job. “I wanted this role to be bigger from the get-go, but I didn’t think that was possible. When I met her, I knew we could expand it.” Three weeks later Michele offered Heidi the job and she accepted.
Case Study #2: Catch their attention.
Over the past four years, Emily Sernaker applied for multiple positions at the International Rescue Committee (IRC). She never gave up. With each application, she sent a personalized cover letter. “I wanted my cover letter to highlight my qualifications, creative thinking, and genuine respect for the organization,” she says.
Sarah Vania, the organization’s regional HR director, says that Emily’s letters caught her attention, especially because they included several video links that showed the results of Emily’s advocacy and fundraising work at other organizations. Emily explains, “I had prior experience advocating for former child soldiers, human trafficking survivors, vulnerable women, and displaced persons. It’s one thing to make statements in a cover letter, like ‘I can make a pitch, I am a creative person, I am thoughtful,’ but showing these qualities seemed like a better way of convincing the recruiter that the statements were true.”
This is what Emily wrote to Sarah about the video:
Here is a short video about my story with activism. The nonprofit organization Invisible Children made it for a youth conference I spoke at this year. It is about four minutes. As you’ll see from the video, I’ve had a lot of success as a student fundraiser, raising over $200,000 for Invisible Children. I’ve since gone on to work as a consultant for Wellspring International and have recently concluded my studies as a Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholar.
In each of the cover letters, Emily also made clear how much she wanted to work for IRC. “To convey enthusiasm is a vulnerable thing to do and can come off as naivete, but, when it came down to it, my enthusiasm for the organization was genuine and expressing it felt right,” she says.
This is how Emily conveyed her interest in working for IRC:
You should also know that I have a sincere appreciation of the IRC. I have enjoyed learning about your programs and have personally visited your New York headquarters, the San Diego New Roots farm, the We Can Be Heroes exhibit, and the Half the Sky exhibit in Los Angeles. The IRC is my top choice and I believe I would be a valuable addition to your fundraising team.
Emily learned throughout the process that the organization had hundreds of applicants for each position and it was extremely competitive. “I appreciated that I wouldn’t be the best for every opening but also remained firm that I did have a significant contribution to make,” she says. Eventually, Emily’s persistence paid off. She was hired as a temporary external relations coordinator, and four months later she moved into a permanent role.
Editor’s note: The author updated this article, which was originally written in 2014, to reflect the latest advice from the experts and the reality of job-seeking during the pandemic.
- Amy Gallo is a contributing editor at Harvard Business Review, cohost of the Women at Work podcast , and the author of two books: Getting Along: How to Work with Anyone (Even Difficult People) and the HBR Guide to Dealing with Conflict . She writes and speaks about workplace dynamics. Watch her TEDx talk on conflict and follow her on LinkedIn . amyegallo
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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job
Unsure what to write in your cover letter, or how to make a cover letter that pairs well with your resume? Our cover letter writing guide explains these details in-depth, and shows you how to write a good cover letter for a job application that lands you an interview.
Picture this : you’ve already made a resume that highlights your experience and you’re about to submit a job application. But before you can continue you see the phrase that every job seeker dreads: “ cover letter required .”
Nobody likes writing cover letters, but if you’re job hunting in 2023, you’ll need to write a cover letter .
We’re here to help. In this article, we break down what a cover letter is, provide some proven examples, and guide you through every step of making a cover letter for a job. Let’s get started.
What is a cover letter for a job?
Not quite clear on what a cover letter is exactly? Here’s a quick definition:
A cover letter is an application document you pair with your resume that explains why you want a particular job, and why you think you’re the right person for that job.
But seeing an example is always better than just reading a definition. So here’s an example of a cover letter to show you what a good cover letter looks like in 2023:
Download Cover Letter Example
Cover Letter Template (Text Version)
December 3, 2022
Mrs. Connie Finnegan
24 Federal Ave.
Atlanta, GA, 30308
(404) 987-6543
[email protected]
Dear Mrs. Finnegan,
I’m writing to apply for the Restaurant Manager opening at Cool Bistro. I have more than three years of experience managing successful restaurants and bars, delivering excellent customer service, and creating unique dining experiences. I’m confident my professional expertise would make me a great addition to the team at Cool Bistro.
In my role as Restaurant Manager for Bar Louie, I proved to be an efficient, enthusiastic, and strong leader. My value quickly became apparent to Bar Louie’s owners after I trained and prepared the entire waitstaff for opening night. Not only did our team meet sales goals each month for the first year, but we received glowing reviews in the local papers as well.
I’m confident Cool Bistro would benefit from my skills in the following areas:
- Eye for excellence and high level of standards
- Strong work ethic and leadership skills
- Positive attitude even under pressure
I believe Cool Bistro will be a great success for many years to come, and my extensive expertise will help ensure your establishment succeeds well into the future. My time spent in this industry has prepared me for such an opportunity, and I sincerely hope I can contribute soon as a member of your team.
I’d appreciate the opportunity to discuss the Restaurant Manager position in more detail soon. I’m happy to come by whenever is most convenient for you. Thank you for your time, and I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
[Your Name]
To maximize your chances of getting an interview, you need to write a cover letter that makes a strong positive first impression on employers. And if you don’t have time to write one, no worries — you can also make a cover letter quickly using online tools or a cover letter template .
Writing a cover letter for a job with no experience ? Watch the video below to get started. Or keep scrolling to learn everything you need to know about how to write a good cover letter that gets you hired regardless of your background.
How to write a cover letter for a job application
Not sure what to write in a cover letter? Follow the seven simple steps below to make a cover letter that leaves a lasting impression on employers:
1. List your contact details
Underneath your name in your cover letter header , list the following contact information:
- Email address
- Phone number
- Mailing address (optional)
- Linkedin profile link (optional)
- Portfolio or website (optional)
- Pronouns (optional)
2. Address the hiring manager by name
Here’s how the top half of your cover letter should look.
After your header, include the date and the company contact information in this format:
Cover Letter Address Format
Name or job title of the person or team you’re writing to Company name Company’s street address Company’s phone number Hiring manager’s email address
Next, address your cover letter to the hiring manager — by name if possible.
A standard cover letter salutation includes the hiring manager’s last name, and begins with “Mr.”, “Ms.”, or another relevant professional title.
If you don’t see the hiring manager’s name listed in the job ad, don’t worry. You can still easily find out who to address your cover letter to:
Ways to find the hiring manager’s name
- Search the company on LinkedIn and click on “People”
- Explore the company’s website (specifically their “About Us” or “Team” page)
- As a last resort, contact their human resources department and ask
However, if you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, using their job title or something like Dear [Department Name] Director is okay.
Here are some example cover letter greetings:
Ways to open your cover letter
- Dear Jane Smith
- Dear Ms. Smith
- Dear Accounting Department
- Dear [Company Name] Recruiter
3. Write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph
Start your cover letter with an informative, direct introduction.
In the first one or two sentences, mention the position and organization you’re applying for, where you found the position, and why you’re excited about the opportunity. Check out this example of an effective cover letter introduction:
Example of a good cover letter introduction
Your opening paragraph should encourage the employer to read the rest of your cover letter.
Highlight your passion
You can make your introduction even more attention-grabbing by adding some personality, or by including a career highlight. Here’s a sample cover letter for a job application highlighting the jobseeker’s passion for the role.
Displaying your passion for a job
As a teenager, I would cut my friends’ hair because of my passion for haircare. Eventually, many of my friends and family would come exclusively to me when they needed their hair cut. Today, if anything, I’m even more passionate about hair care, which is why I’m applying for the open Stylist role at Grateful Dreads.
Showing personality in your cover letter helps employers understand what motivates you.
Just be sure to strike the right tone for your industry or field. For instance, if you’re applying for a job in law or finance, keep your writing formal.
Mention any referrals or contacts you have at the job
If you received a referral to the job by a current employee, your introduction is the place to mention it. Include a referral in your cover letter by quickly stating their name and your connection to them. This is a great way to quickly win over a hiring manager.
Adding a referral for a role
Your Personal Trainer, Augusta Maine, informed me about your open Executive Diary Secretary role and encouraged me to apply.
4. Explain why you’re qualified for the job
Your second and third paragraphs should convince employers that you’re the right person for the job. Use these paragraphs to best market yourself by discussing your relevant work experience, skills, and achievements.
Some things to include in your cover letter that highlight your value to employers include achievements , awards , and expertise . Here’s how you can add these elements:
If you’ve received compliments from management or colleagues for your work, you can add them to your cover letter:
Showcasing success on a cover letter
The managing partner of the law firm, Olympia Washington — one of my references — informed me that without my research skills, we wouldn’t have been able to guarantee such a good result for our clients in a class-action suit against an eldercare facility that had been overcharging its residents.
5. Relate your experience to the company’s needs
Begin to close your cover letter by restating your interest in the job and explaining how your experience fits into the needs of the company.
For example, if you’re applying to work at a company that’s seeking to break into a new market that you have experience in, you should highlight this experience in your writing.
Showing prior experience on a cover letter
I noticed in The San Antonio Express-News that you’re expanding Los Pollos Sobrinos into neighboring New Mexico. As a supervisor at Big Kahuna Burger, I’ve onboarded 20+ new employees, and I’m sure I could help you rapidly grow and train your team.
If you’re not sure what the goals or needs of the company are, find out by doing some research online. Take note of the products or services they offer, what their work culture is like, and if they have any future goals.
The job ad is also an excellent place to find out what the company is seeking.
6. Finish with a concise closing paragraph and sign-off
When writing a cover letter closing , be polite, confident, and continue to market yourself as the best candidate for the job.
First, restate your excitement about the job opportunity. Then, encourage the hiring manager to interview you (remember to mention when you’re available), and thank them for their time:
Finally, wrap up your cover letter with a professional closing salutation. The standard closing is “Sincerely” but here are some more options:
6 more sign offs for a cover letter
- Best wishes,
- Respectfully,
- Kind regards,
- Best regards,
- Yours truly,
Then, make two spaces below the salutation, and type your full name.
7. Check your cover letter’s content and formatting
After creating your cover letter, you need to review it before you send it off. Here are a few things to consider when reviewing your cover letter:
Double-check your cover letter formatting
A professional cover letter is normally:
- 200–350 words
- single-spaced
- US Letter (USA) or A4 (elsewhere) page size
- Left-aligned (except for your contact details, which can be centered)
Take a look at the checklist below before you submit your application to make sure your cover letter is formatted correctly.
Simplify your writing
The trick to writing a good cover letter that gives employers an easy overview of your qualifications is to use direct language.
Ideally, a cover letter for a resume should be easy to read, confident, and friendly.
To instantly improve your writing tone:
- Use contractions like “don’t” instead of “do not”
- Avoid overused buzzwords and phrases like “dynamic,” “think outside the box,” and “go-getter”
- Choose simple words like “helpful” instead of “advantageous”
Here’s a comparison between a friendly writing style and an overly formal one:
Excited and professional
I’m thrilled to apply for the customer service position at [Company Name]. Having been a customer service representative for 5+ years at Walmart, I’m confident I can quickly apply my experience using Zendesk and Salesforce to make a positive impact on [Company Name]’s bottom line.
It is with great interest that I apply for the open customer service position posted by your company on Indeed. I possess the requisite skill set to ably perform the customer service duties described in the job requirements.
Proofread carefully
Typos and grammatical errors in your cover letter will leave a negative impression on employers.
Here are two quick tricks professional editors use to catch mistakes:
- Read your writing out loud : Reading your letter aloud forces you to consider every word, sentence, paragraph, and punctuation mark. Plus, you’ll more easily notice hard-to-read sentences, and can then simplify them.
- Change the font : A new font forces your brain to process something that seems new. Switching your cover letter to a different font and font size can help you notice mistakes you’d otherwise miss.
After you’ve read your cover letter out loud, have someone else read it over. They can provide helpful feedback like whether your letter is clear and well-argued, or vague and filled with cliches. They’ll also (hopefully) notice any small grammar and spelling errors you missed.
How to make a cover letter using online software
If you’re short on time, try using a web application to quickly make a convincing cover letter.
There are several powerful cover letter builders online that you can try out. We’ll walk you through our own cover letter generator , so you can create your own letter in a few quick steps.
Step 1: Fill in your personal information
This information is what the software uses to generate your cover letter, and includes your:
Work experience
- Educational background
- Skills and personal qualities
Additionally, you’ll need to list the job title and company that you’re applying for so that the builder knows how to address your cover letter.
Depending on your educational status and how much relevant work experience you have, the software will highlight different information to help put the focus on your strengths as a candidate.
For example, if you already have several years of relevant work experience, the builder won’t mention your college education because your degree is no longer your most relevant qualification.
The last question asks you to explain how your coworkers might describe you (the answer ultimately being a soft skill you’ve developed over time). The builder then uses this detail in your cover letter to help further market you as the best candidate for the job.
Step 2: Select your template
But before you download your cover letter, make sure it looks appropriate for the job you’re applying for and matches the design of your resume.
Click on the left or right side of your cover letter to swap between the many HR-approved templates available in our builder. We offer a variety of templates designed for different industries and levels of formality, so you’ll soon find a design that works for you:
Step 3: Download your completed cover letter
With your cover letter written and neatly formatted, you’re ready to download your finished document.
Once you click “Proceed to Download”, you’ll be prompted to download your file in either PDF or .docx format.
In most situations, you should save your cover letter as a PDF because it’s easy for employers to open and ensures the reader doesn’t accidentally edit your cover letter when viewing it.
However, if a company specifically asks you to send your job application in .docx format, you should save your cover letter as a docx.
Frequently asked questions about how to write a cover letter
Still unsure about something? Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about writing a cover letter:
What makes a good cover letter?
A good cover letter expands upon the information in your resume, providing context for your skills and accomplishments. It also gives employers insight into your personality so they can determine if you’d be a good cultural fit for the company.
What should you not say in a cover letter?
What you shouldn’t say in a cover letter is anything that makes you seem negative . For example, avoid talking about why you hate your job , or complaining about your current employer.
Instead, focus on what you learned in your current position that will help you succeed in your next role.
Should you include salary requirements in a cover letter?
No, you shouldn’t include salary requirements in your cover letter unless the company requests it.
If the salary you state is too high, the employer might reject your application before you get the opportunity to explain why your skill set and experience warrant a higher salary.
How do you write a general cover letter for a resume?
You write a general cover letter for a resume by highlighting the skills that make you a competitive candidate in your target industry without including any specific details about the job you’re applying for.
However, keep in mind that tailoring your cover letter to each position you apply for will increase your chances of landing a job. We recommend against using a general cover letter unless you really need to save time.
Additional cover letter FAQs:
Still have some questions that haven’t been answered? Here are some of our other cover letter FAQs:
- Does a resume need a cover letter?
- How do I include a referral in a cover letter?
- How do you write salary requirements in a cover letter?
- What is an enclosure in a cover letter?
- Should you use a template for a cover letter?
- Does a CV include a cover letter?
- Can a cover letter be two pages?
- Do cover letters need an address?
- Do I need to sign a cover letter submitted electronically?
- Should you put a photo on a cover letter?
- What does a cover letter look like?
We also have the answers to many more frequently asked questions about cover letters if you don’t see your question above.
Click to rate this article
Written by Ida Pettersson
Ida is a Content Writer at Resume Genius, where she assists job seekers as they plan their next career moves. She graduated from New College of Florida with a double major... more
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Best Cover Letter Examples for 2023
Our cover letter examples help with your job application because they show you what to include and how to convince employers you’re the right person for the job. We have 245+ samples from over 18 industries. Plus, we give advice and tips on how to use cover letters in various hiring situations.
Popular cover letter examples
Here are some of our most-viewed cover letter samples.
Don’t see your job title? Keep scrolling to search for the exact job title you need,and find hundreds more examples below!
Search cover letters by job title
Use this search bar to scan all the cover letters in our database and find one for the exact role to which you’re applying.
SEARCH BY JOB TITLE
Universal cover letter example
Every cover letter should include the same sections as the sample seen here, regardless of the job.
All cover letters should include these five sections:
Address/Salutation:
- This belongs at the top of the document, where you include your contact info and the address of the person to whom you are writing.
Salutation:
- You should identify the person you are writing to by name .
Introduction paragraph:
- An attention-grabbing opening paragraph where you introduce yourself, mention the role you want and briefly explain what makes you qualified.
Body paragraph(s):
- One or two paragraphs that tell a story about your relevant professional experience, career growth, achievements or skills.
Closing paragraph:
- A final paragraph that restates your interest in the role, thanks the hiring manager for their time, and expresses hope for a future chat or meeting.
- A formal sign-off with your name.
Also known as a job application letter, our cover letter samples help you write a cover letter .
A cover letter example for your industry or job title shows exactly how the end result should look. Use them for inspiration as you write your own!
For even more help, use our Cover Letter Builder !
It’s a great tool that gives step-by-step guidance, features 30+ cover letter designs and provides industry-specific phrasing created by resume experts.
Our builder will eliminate the guesswork of writing a cover letter, and save you a lot of time!
Cover letter examples by industry and job title
Looking for a sample cover letter for a resume in your industry? Check out our examples listed by job title and organized by industry.
- Accounting & Finance
- Administrative
- Construction
- Customer Service
- Firefighting
- Hotel & Hospitality
- Human Resources
- Information Technology
- Safety & Security
- Transportation
Accounting & Finance Cover Letter Examples
Study our accounting and finance cover letter samples for your job application to multiply your chance for success. See how other candidates describe their math skills, tax code knowledge and education to earn these roles.
- Accounting Clerk
- Accounting Manager
- Internal Audit Manager
- Junior Accountant
- Payroll Accountant
- Revenue Manager
Administrative Cover Letter Examples
A cover letter demonstrates your organization and communication skills before you step into the office. These administrative letter examples will help you get ready to write. Use our cover letter examples for the job you desire.
- Administrative Assistant
- Data Collector
- Data Entry Clerk
- Deputy Clerk
- Executive Assistant
- Office Manager
- Personal Assistant
- Receptionist
Business Cover Letter Examples
Here are good cover letter examples for business roles. They’ll help you see the selling points your job competition uses to frame their experience.
- Assistant Director
- Business Analyst
- Business Consultant
- General Manager
- Operations Manager
- Risk Manager
- Shift Manager
Construction Cover Letter Examples
We’ve got example cover letters that you can use as blueprints for your own solid introduction. Get inspired and learn how other job seekers are framing their skills in the construction field.
- Construction Supervisor
- Crane Operator
- General Contractor
- Independent Contractor
- Manual Labor
- Site Supervisor
Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
Writing a cover letter is a breeze if you’ve got the patience and communication skills required for customer service roles. Just stick to the script! Write a great letter using our cover letter examples to guide you.
- Airline Customer Service
- Call Center Representative
- Customer Service Associate
- Customer Service Manager
- Customer Service Representative CV
- Room Attendant
- Service Coordinator
- Ticket Agent
Education Cover Letter Examples
A good cover letter example can show you what you should say to get hired. Study our education cover letter examples below. They’ll help you brainstorm and craft a cover letter worthy of a gold star.
- Academic Dean
- Admissions Counselor
- Assistant Superintendent
- Assistant Teacher
- Director of Admissions
- Instructional Designer
- Literacy Coach
- Preschool Director
- School Guidance Counselor
- School Principal
- School Superintendent
Fire Fighting Cover Letter Examples
Our firefighting example cover letters provide you with good ideas for how you can tell your own career story.
- Fire Inspector
- Firefighter
Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
Give your job search the booster shot it needs, a cover letter that demands attention. Our cover letter samples will help you write your own letter that will impress hiring managers and land you an interview.
- Assisted Living Manager
- Health Care Assistant
- Medical Billing Specialist
- Medical Interpreter
- Medical Office Assistant
- Patient Care Coordinator
- Patient Care Technician
- Patient Service Representative
- Personal Care Assistant
- Speech Therapist
- Wellness Activities Assistant
Hotel & Hospitality Cover Letter Examples
Our cover letters are at your service! Check out our collection of hospitality cover letter samples below. They’re full of great ideas for describing your passion for hospitality, guest satisfaction and great service.
- Guest Service Representative
- Hotel Concierge
- Hotel Guest Service Agent
- Hotel Manager
- Hotel Receptionist
- Retail and Restaurant Associate
Human Resources Cover Letter Examples
HR is often responsible for hiring at many companies, so your cover letter should be top-notch. Review our cover letter samples for HR positions. See how others describe their skills in hiring, managing and developing talent within a company.
- Benefits Analyst
- Compensation and Benefits
- Corporate Recruiter
- Employment Advisor
- HR Business Partner
- HR Coordinator
- HR Executive
- Human Resource Specialist
- Human Resources Generalist
- Human Resources Manager
- Organizational Development
- Recruiting and Employment
- Recruitment Coordinator
- Technical Recruiter
- Training and Development Manager
Information Technology Cover Letter Examples
Nearly every modern business needs technical support. Get insight into how others sell their tech skills. Take advantage of our great cover letter examples to help land the IT job you desire.
- Chief Technology Officer
- Computer Technician
- Data Coordinator
- IT Service Manager
- Project Officer
- Service Delivery Manager
- Service Desk Analyst
- Technology Director
Janitorial Cover Letter Examples
Spruce up your cover letter to score a new job with our maintenance and janitorial example cover letters below. They’ll help you craft a letter that shows employers you’ll keep their workplaces up and running.
- Cleaning Professionals
- Executive Housekeeper
- Housekeeper
- Housekeeping Supervisor
Marketing Cover Letter Examples
If your resume is your personal branding statement, your cover letter is the sales pitch to get hired. Hone your message for marketing and advertising positions by looking over cover letter example letters here.
- Account Manager
- Advertising Operations Manager
- Analytics Manager
- Brand Manager
- Chief Marketing Officer
- Digital Marketing Manager
- E Commerce Manager
- Market Researcher
- Product Marketer
- Public Relations
- Social Media Manager
Medical Cover Letter Examples
Our cover letter samples for medical professionals will show hiring managers you’ve got the necessary skills, schooling and work experience to succeed. We’ve got examples from every medical specialty.
- Acupuncturist
- Anesthesiologist
- Audiologist
- Cardiologist
- Clinical Research Assistant
- Dialysis Patient Care Technician
- General Practitioner
- Health And Safety Officer
- Hospital Clerk
- Medical Records Clerk
- Nursing Home Administrator
- Optical Assistant
- Pediatrician
- Phlebotomist
- Respiratory Therapist
- Ultrasound Technician
Retail Cover Letter Examples
Earn a new job in retail with a stellar cover letter. See how our cover example letters for retail jobs demonstrate the full range of skills needed in the industry.
- Area Manager
- Assistant General Manager
- Assistant Merchandiser
- Merchandise Associate
- Mobile Sales Pro
- Retail Assistant Store Manager
- Retail Merchandiser
- Retail Sales Associate
- Retail Supervisor
- Store Manager
- Storekeeper
- Supermarket Cashier
Sales Cover Letter Examples
Sell your future employer on hiring you with an excellent cover letter. Browse through our sales cover letter samples for one matching the role you want.
- Automotive Salesperson
- Client Relationship Manager
- Franchise Owner
- Inside Sales Representative
- Medical Sales Representative
- Outside Sales Representative
- Regional Manager
- Sales Account Executive
- Sales and Marketing Coordinator
- Sales Coordinator
- Sales Director
- Sales Operations Manager
- Sales Representative
- Sales Supervisor
- Salesperson
- Technical Sales Representative
- Telemarketer
- Territory Sales Manager
Safety & Security Cover Letter Examples
Secure a job by submitting a great cover letter. Check out some top-notch security cover letter samples to see how you can best sell your own experience to employers.
- Director of Security
- Loss Prevention Manager
- Protection Officer
- Safety Coordinator
- Safety Manager
- Security Guard
- Security Officer
- Security Supervisor
Transportation Cover Letter Examples
A cover letter is a vehicle to accelerate your job hunt. Take a look at our transportation application letter examples for ideas on how to impress hiring managers. They’ll help you arrive at your next job.
- Fleet Manager
- Freight Associate
- Passenger Service Agent
- Transportation Customer Service Advisor
- Transportation Manager
Cover letter examples for every scenario
Use the example letters below to find the right words or phrases to explain yourself in different professional scenarios.
When you are new to the workforce, a cover letter can help you fill in the work gaps of your resume by pointing out the skills, education and training you possess that make you an excellent fit for the role.
A cover letter is valuable if you have limited work or internship experience. It helps you draw a direct connection between the experience and education milestones you cite in your resume to the role to which you’re applying.
If you have an employment gap on your resume, a hiring manager will likely wonder why. In this case, a cover letter is perfect for explaining your situation. In the body of your cover letter, briefly mention why you stepped away from the workforce, such as because of a layoff, family emergency or to raise children. Keep it brief, though; the purpose of the cover letter is to focus on your credentials and what you bring to the table.
When you want to make a career change, your cover letter provides the space to explain your motivation and reasons for doing so. Remember, the letter should focus on what you’ll offer the employer, so keep your explanation for making the change brief. The bulk of your cover letter should highlight your relevant work experience and transferable skills .
A cover letter is critical when seeking a promotion or transfer with your current employer. This type of cover letter explains your motivation for applying for the promotion and why you believe you would excel in the new role.
If you have a connection who works at the company you’re applying to or is a colleague of the hiring manager, the first paragraph of your cover letter is where you should mention your connection. It will increase your chances of getting the job if someone with close knowledge told you about it.
If you’ve had your eye on a company you’d like to work for but haven’t seen any job openings, you can use your cover letter to explain that. Your introduction should explain what makes you passionate about working for this company. In addition, you should outline the skills and type of role you would like.
Have a lead on a great role that will open in the future? There’s no need to wait for it to be posted to the job board. View our sample letters of interest for a job you want, even if it hasn’t been posted yet. Learning to write this type of letter can set you apart from the competition.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. Its aim is to introduce yourself, outline your skills and experience, and explain why you would be the best fit for the role.
Cover letters shouldn’t be long, just a few paragraphs –– about 250 words or one double-spaced page.
They are a great way to convey your enthusiasm for the position or company and discuss what interests you about the role. Personalize your letter by directly addressing the hiring manager or recruiter.
What does a cover letter look like?
A cover letter looks like any other standard business letter: It consists of a recipient address, a greeting, two to three body paragraphs (the main text) and a signature. It’s three to four paragraphs long and should all fit on a single page.
While a cover letter will always consist of the same parts, you can change the appearance by changing details such as the font or adding a touch of color.
If you’re uncertain about what a cover letter looks like, it’s a good idea to use a cover letter template .
A template is just a preformatted document that takes care of the visual elements of your cover letter. That way, you can focus on the message of your cover letter instead of the design.
How important are cover letters when applying for jobs?
Cover letters are very important to apply for jobs. The only time that you shouldn’t include one is if the job post requests that you don’t or if the website you’re using to apply for a job does not allow you to attach one.
Even if it’s not requested, submitting a cover letter will help attract the attention of hiring managers. It’s a way to show that you have solid communication skills and expand on your resume’s key skills.
Since it’s more space to advertise yourself than a resume alone, it helps you better sell yourself. Cover letters are critical because you may be at a disadvantage for the job if you don’t take the time to include one, and other candidates do.
What are three good cover letter tips to remember?
Here are three helpful cover letter tips:
- Customize your cover letter for every role. Make sure you tailor your letter to the employer’s needs based on what it says in the job post. That way, it speaks to an employer’s needs and better appeals to them. Furthermore, many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS). ATS is software that scans your resume and cover letter for specific phrases. Targeting your cover letter to the job post helps ensure that you pass an ATS.
- Go deeper than what’s on the resume. Cover letters should elaborate on key details in your resume, not repeat them. For example, instead of just restating that you are organized, you could expand on this by including a line about how you used that skill to revamp the company filing system, which increased efficiency. Turn the lifeless details of your resume into an engaging story!
- Use numbers and metrics. Including numerical metrics helps quantify your skills to a potential employer. Saying something like, “Analyzed ways to reduce costs, enhance revenues and improve profits 33%,” will help you. That’s because numbers pop out and grab the attention of the person reading your cover letter. Furthermore, they add more detail to your abilities and performance level.
What should be in a well-written cover letter?
Our sample cover letters show you all the elements of a strong cover letter. At its most basic, a well-written cover letter is composed of five key sections:
- Header: The header of your cover letter contains your contact information. Include your telephone number, professional email address and links to your LinkedIn profile, personal website or online portfolio, if applicable.
- Greeting: Do your research to find the hiring manager’s name and address your cover letter to that person. If it’s not listed in the job ad, research LinkedIn or the company website to identify the right person. In a pinch, find the name of someone in the recruiting department and address your letter to that person. Avoid generic greetings, such as “To whom it may concern,” if possible.
- Opening paragraph: The opening paragraph of your letter should mention the name of the company and the job title to which you are applying. It should also briefly say why you are applying for the job. Then, you should cite the top skills that make you qualified for the role.
- Body paragraph(s): The body of your cover letter is its longest, most important section. It’s one or two paragraphs where you expand on the most relevant parts of your experience or education. Whereas in the opening paragraph, you tell the employer you’re right for the job, in these paragraphs, you should show them by using numbers or telling a story that illustrates your abilities. This is the section where you should use data and metrics in this section to detail to recruiters the impact your work has had and what you will bring to the table if hired.
- Closing paragraph: Your closing paragraph should briefly summarize your enthusiasm for the role and express hope for a future discussion. Then, thank the reader for their time. Sign off with a formal closing statement like “Regards” or “Sincerely” and your name.
Is it OK to have a two-page cover letter?
Cover letters should be focused and concise, so it’s not advised to go past one page. That’s the accepted standard practice for cover letters.
That’s because recruiters often get hundreds of applications for a single job opening and don’t have time to read long letters. That’s not to mention including a cover letter that is longer than other candidates’ may look sloppy and unprofessional.
How should I prepare my cover letter?
There are two ways to write a cover letter:
- You can do it the old-fashioned way, from scratch. That means formatting your page, brainstorming what to say, writing and then editing your document.
- Use a modern tool: Our Cover Letter Builder . It uses computer automation to make creating a resume much easier than doing it from scratch!That’s because it’s like having an expert guide you through the process. All you have to do is answer a series of easy-to-follow prompts.Best of all, our builder offers suggested prewritten text suggestions crafted by our team of career experts. They’re all targeted to the job title for which you’re applying.This extra help saves time compared to doing it the old-fashioned way. You can complete a cover letter in under 15 minutes!
See more on our FAQ Page
Create a Cover Letter with LiveCareer
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*The names and logos of the companies referred to in this page are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with LiveCareer.
250+ Cover Letter Examples for 2023
Create a first-class cover letter that gets you the job interview, using cover letter samples for over 500 jobs written and designed by our experts.
- 30% higher chance of getting a job
- 42% higher response rate from recruiters
Cover letters are essentially elevator pitches that give employers insight into your strengths and accomplishments . Our cover letter examples are effective because they:
Show real interest.
Highlight key skills and achievements .
Explain why the applicant is the best job candidate.
What to include in a cover letter
Contact information:.
List your phone number and professional email address.
Employer’s information:
This should look like our job cover letter sample.
Salutation:
Address the letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager.
Start with a relevant accomplishment like our letter sample.
Elaborate on your accomplishments and skills to show your value.
The best cover letter examples close by inviting employers to get in touch.
Want more examples of cover letters, plus tips for organizing and formatting a cover letter? Check out our guide to cover letter formats .
Perfect Cover Letter Builder
Our Cover Letter Builder helps you write a cover letter in minutes with step-by-step guidance, expert phrases and professional, customizable templates.
Professional cover letter examples by industry and job title
Accounting cover letter examples.
For an accounting job, follow our employment cover letter examples to emphasize your number-crunching skills and your ability to work with others.
- Accounting Assistant
- Assistant Accountant
You’ve made an impression with your analytical acumen and your critical thinking skills. These cover letter examples show how to expand on those strengths.
Our Cover Letter Builder will help you craft a great cover letter that tells employers who you are and what you can bring to the table. We offer:
- Expert advice on every step.
- Professional content suggestions.
- A variety of formats to download and save your document.
Example cover letters for administrative jobs
Get inspired by these great cover letter examples and showcase your keen eye for detail, good organization and proficiency with computer software.
- Administrative Assistant
- Clerical Assistant
- Data Entry Clerk
- Data Entry Specialist
- Executive Assistant
- Office Administrator
- Office Assistant
- Office Clerk
- Office Manager
- Personal Assistant
- Practice Manager
- Receptionist
- Store Administrative Assistant
Administrative
Your ability to multitask is unparalleled. These cover letter examples will help you show employers what makes you a cut above the rest.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to write a perfect cover letter. Our builder provides:
- Professional guidance for every step in the process.
- Expert suggestions for each section.
- The ability to download and save your cover letter in multiple formats.
Professional cover letter examples for business operations jobs
Like these cover letter examples for a job in business operations, focus on your ability to coordinate teams and processes and your superior communications skills.
- Business Owner
- Business Development Manager
- Executive Director
- Operations Manager
- Operations Supervisor
- Owner Operator
- Vice President
Business operations
Your technical proficiency is as strong as your decision making and problem-solving abilities. Our cover letter examples for business operations will help you to stand out from the crowd.
Our Cover Letter Builder will help you to quickly and easily create a cover letter that gets noticed. We provide:
- Guidance and tools for each step.
- Professional content suggestions for each part of your cover letter.
- All major file formats to download and save your document.
Construction cover letter examples
Use an application letter sample to highlight your strong work ethic and ability to work with specific equipment, such as forklifts or cranes.
- General Labourer
- Site Manager
Construction
You’re deterous, organized and you can solve problems on the fly. Our construction industry cover letter examples will help you expand on your toolkit and knowledge, so hiring managers know you’re the one for the job.
Our Cover Letter Builder will help you create the perfect cover letter that tells employers who you are and why you want to work for them. Plus, we provide:
- Expert advice on every step of the process.
Culinary cover letter examples
Enthusiasm, experience in fast-paced work environments and knowledge of food preparation are key areas to cover in a culinary cover letter. Get inspired by a job cover letter sample below.
- Bakery Clerk
- Kitchen Hand
- Kitchen Staff
Make a great impression on hiring managers with our culinary cover letter examples. We’ll help you align your agility in the kitchen with your attention to detail and customer service acumen.
Our Cover Letter Builder will help you build the perfect cover letter and provide:
- Guidance along the way.
- Expert tools and content suggestions for each section of your letter.
Sample cover letters for customer service jobs
Use one of our customer service employment cover letter examples as a guide to stress your commitment to assisting people and your ability to work as part of a team.
- Customer Service Agent
- Customer Service Coordinator
- Customer Care Representative
- Customer Service Advisor
- Customer Service Manager
- Customer Service Representative
- Customer Service Specialist
- Room Attendant
- Service Advisor
- Service Coordinator
Customer service
Our customer service cover letter examples can help you get the job you want. We’ll show you how to describe your experience, showcase interpersonal skills and display your personality to impress potential employers.
Create an effective cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder. We provide:
- Professional advice along the way.
- Job-specific keywords and skills.
- All standard file formats to download and save your cover letter.
Education cover letter samples
These are good cover letter examples to follow if you want to highlight your proficiency with specific subjects and intangible strengths such as flexibility, communication and patience.
- Education Assistant Director
- Assistant Principal
- Educational Assistant
- Resident Assistant
Get inspired with these professionally crafted education cover letter samples. We will show you how to effectively express your passion for the job, convey your knowledge and show your top strengths.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to make the perfect education cover letter. Our builder offers:
- Expert guidance for writing a winning cover letter.
- Professionally written content suggestions.
- Multiple formats to download and save your cover letter.
Examples of cover letters for the food service industry
Display your experiences in fast-paced work environments where teamwork is a necessity, like our expert-written cover letter examples for a job in the food service industry.
- Bar Manager
- Crew Member
- Food Service Worker
- Host/hostess
- Service Crew
Food service
You’re a patient mulitasker with exceptional communication skills. Let our cover letter examples for the food service industry show you how to tell your professional story in a way that hiring managers want to read.
Our Cover Letter Builder can help you expand on the skills you bring to the table and so potential employers know what makes you the best candidate for the job. We give you:
- Professional advice for every step of the process.
- Expert keywords and industry-specific phrases.
- Multiple file formats for saving your cover letter.
Resume cover letter examples for health care support jobs
Elaborate on your training and experience in health care situations and programs. Use our cover letter samples for guidance and include a story about services you’ve provided to patients.
- Caregivers Companions
- Home Health Aide
- Medical Biller
- Medical Receptionist
- Occupational Therapist
- Patient Care Tech
- Patient Service Representative
- Personal Care Aide
- Personal Care Assistant
- Personal Support Worker
- Phlebotomist
Health care support
Make the best impression on potential employers by using our cover letter examples to display your skills and knowledge in a way that says “I’m the best candidate.”
With the help of our Cover Letter Builder, you can create an effective cover letter with:
- Expert advice for each step.
Hospitality cover letter examples
Use a sample cover letter for a resume in the hospitality field for inspiration when emphasizing your achievements and dedication to customer satisfaction.
- Guest Service Agent
- Guest Service Representative
Hospitality
These hospitality cover letter examples will inspire your to make the most of your exceptional customer service skills, organizational abilities and professional achievements.
With the help of our Cover Letter Builder, you can make the best impression with:
- Expert content suggestions.
- The ability to download and save your letter in all major file formats.
Information technology job application letters
Explain how you’ve used your top computer system maintenance skills and show how you’ve successfully improved IT operations in previous jobs. Use our cover letter samples as guides.
- Senior Project Manager
Information technology
Use our information technology cover letter examples to show the achievements and technical acumen you bring to the table.
Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft an effective letter. We offer:
- Expert tools and guidance every step of the way.
- Industry- and job-specific content suggestions for each section of your letter.
- The ability to download and save your document in all major file formats.
Best cover letter examples for law
A good cover letter provides a rundown of your experiences handling legal affairs, performing research or handling documentation and administration at a law firm.
- Legal Assistant
- Legal Receptionist
- Legal Secretary
Our cover letter samples for the law profession will help you plead your case that there’s no one better for the job.
Use our cover letter builder to build a compelling cover letter that wins over potential employers. Our builder provides:
- All the tools and advice to craft a professional cover letter quickly.
- Professional content suggestions for each section of your letter.
- Multiple file formats for downloading and saving your document.
Marketing cover letter samples
Like our sample application letter for a job, demonstrate your creativity, leadership and strategic thinking abilities, and highlight areas of focus like social media or email marketing.
- Brand Ambassador
- Marketing Executive
- Marketing Intern
- Marketing Manager
- Product Manager
These marketing sample cover letters will inspire you to display your industry strengths and work experience so that hiring managers want to know more.
Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft an effective letter. It provides:
- Expert guidance every step of the way.
- Professional content suggestions and tools for optimizing each section of your letter.
- All standard file formats to download and save your letter.
Medical cover letter examples
Go beyond standard credentials and training. Let our sample cover letters help you highlight your ability to empathize with clients and patients.
- Clinic Administrator
- Medical Direct Support Professional
- Medical Technologist
- Radiologic Technologist
- Speech Language Pathologist
- Surgical Technologist
Our medical cover letter examples will help you display your medical knowledge, industry achievements licenses and certifications to stand out.
Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft a perfect medical cover letter. We offer:
- Professional advice every step of the way.
- Expert tips and content suggestions.
Nursing cover letter examples
Emphasize your interpersonal and communication skills, areas of expertise and best experiences caring for others in your nursing resume cover letter.
- Certified Nurse Assistant
- Charge Nurse
- Director Of Nursing
- Experienced Intensive Care Nurse
- Nursing Assistant
- Operating Room Nurse
- Patient Care Technician
- Perioperative Nurse
- Student Nurse
Use our nursing cover letter samples for inspiration. We’ll help you express your compassion for others, display your ability to multitask, and showcase your attention to detail. Hiring managers won’t want to look away.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to create a cover letter quickly and easily. We offer:
- Expert advice.
- Industry-standard keywords and tools to optimize your cover letter.
- Multiple file formats to download and save your letter.
Production cover letter samples
Similar to our sample letter of interest for a job in production, convince employers you’re the right person for the job by showcasing your ability to work well with others.
- Assembly Line
- Forklift Operator
- Petroleum Operator
- Production Assistant
- Production Operator
- Production Supervisor
Use these production sample cover letters to see how to best emphasize your work achievements and greatest strengths.
- Professional advice for each step.
Retail application letter examples
Provide details on your retail resume cover letter on job-related abilities, such as maintaining merchandise and point-of-sale systems, and interpersonal skills such as customer service and multitasking abilities.
- Assistant Store Manager
- Department Supervisor
- District Manager
- Regional Manager
- Retail Assistant
- Store Manager
- Sales Supervisor
- Shop Assistant
Our retail cover letter examples are inspiring. Use them to help you write a perfect cover letter that compels hiring managers to learn more.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a compelling cover letter quickly and easily. We provide:
- Tools and industry-specific content suggestions for each section.
- Multiple file formats for saving your letter.
Great cover letter examples for sales jobs
Give concrete examples of how you’ve helped improve a company’s bottom line, using our cover letter samples for guidance.
- Salesperson
- Director Of Sales
- Inside Sales
- Lead Sales Associate
- Outside Sales Representative
- Regional Sales Manager
- Sales Associate
- Sales Executive
- Sales Specialist
- Senior Consultant
Social services cover letter examples
Choose an example cover letter to see how to emphasize your ability to communicate with others. Add any training in specialized areas such as substance abuse work to your letter.
- Case Manager
- Drug And Alcohol Counselor
- Group Leader
Social services
Our social services cover letter samples will help you expand on your experience and core qualifications so that you can display your compassion, patience and top-notch listening skills.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a cover letter that gets noticed. We provide:
- Professional guidance along the way.
- Expert content suggestions for each area of your cover letter.
- Multiple file formats to download and save your document.
Teaching cover letter examples
Let potential employers know you have specialized knowledge and explain how you enrich children in the classroom. Our cover letter examples for a job in teaching can help!
- Adjunct Professor
- Assistant Teacher
- Elementary Teacher
- Graduate Assistant
- Kindergarten Teacher
- Master Teacher
- Preschool Teacher
- Student Assistant
- Student Teacher
- Summer Teacher
- Teacher’s Aide
- Teaching Assistant
Our sample cover letters for teaching will inspire your to display your presentation skills, interpersonal skills and in-depth subject matter expertise so that potential employers can’t look elsewhere.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a compelling cover letter with ease. Our builder provides:
Cover letter examples for other popular industries
Examples of cover letters for special circumstances, entry-level cover letter.
A simple cover letter should focus on your skills, education and willingness to learn in a new position.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to create a cover letter that will help jump-start your career with:
- Expert advice throughout.
- Multiple file formats for saving your document.
Entry-level cover letter example
Notice how this example of an application letter emphasizes the job seeker’s training, skills and career ambitions while also connecting them to what the potential employer needs.
Career change cover letter
This modern cover letter example can help showcase the changes you’ve made to move forward in your career. It will also help highlight your transferable skills and career accomplishments.
Make this letter your own in our Cover Letter Builder, which includes:
- Guidance on every step.
- Expert phrases, skills and bullet points.
- All major file formats to download and save your cover letter.
Career change cover letter for a job application
When changing careers, you must make a connection between jobs. Follow the lead of this sample cover letter by highlighting skills you’ve developed in previous jobs that match the new one.
Employment gap cover letter
A cover letter is the best tool to explain a time period without employment. This example shows you how to approach the subject while keeping the attention on your skills and qualifications.
You can edit this cover letter in our Cover Letter Builder, which provides:
- Advice on every step.
- The ability to save your document in all major formats.
Employment gap application letter sample
If you’ve been away from full-time work for long stretches, it’s important to explain to employers what you’ve done during that time. Our cover letter example for a job gap shows how to do so effectively while focusing on your qualifications.
“Cold call” cover letter
Make a confident approach with this cold call cover letter example. Let your skills and qualifications speak for themselves while you make a connection with an employer.
Edit this cover letter with ease in our Cover Letter Builder, which provides you with:
- Step-by-step guidance.
“Cold call” cover letter sample
“Cold call” cover letters are necessary when companies don’t have open positions. This sample letter works perfectly because the first paragraph shows that the job candidate has done her “homework” on the company. She mentions their mission, vision and high standards, and she highlights what she has to offer them.
Professional connection cover letter
Use our Cover Letter Builder to expand on the skills you’ve learned on the job and what you can offer your employer now.
- Guidance on every step
- Expert-approved content suggestions
Professional connection cover letter example
If someone within the company recommended you for the position, write a cover letter that centers around your professional connection, as shown in this resume cover page example.
Temporary-to-permanent employee cover letter
Make it official. Use a modern resume template to transition into a permanent position. Bring to the table the achievements you’ve reached, what you’ve learned so far and how your skills have helped the success of your temporary employer.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to create an effective letter that takes you from a temp to a permanent employee with:
- Expert guidance on every step
- Professeional content suggestions for each section of your letter.
- A variety of file formats to download and save your document.
Temporary-to-permanent employee sample cover letter
The goal of these types of cover letters is to show hiring managers why they should hire you as a full-time employee. Our letter example focuses on specific contributions and explains how they can provide even more value as a full-time employee.
Seeking promotion cover letter
You’ve impressed your employer with your skills and achievements and now you want more. Use this contemporary cover letter to state your case, bring attention to your accomplishments and expand on what you could do in a higher position.
Seeking promotion cover letter example
This application letter is different from other resume cover letter examples because it stresses the job applicant’s familiarity with the company’s goals, values and processes — a big advantage over other applicants.
Unadvertised position cover letter
No need to wait until a job posting is available to apply. Reach out to a potential employer and share your enthusiasm and what you could bring to the company.
Our Cover Letter Builder can help you expand on the skills you can bring to the table and why you should be considered as a candidate.
- Professional advice for every step.
- Multiple file formats to download and save your cover letter.
Sample cover letter for an unadvertised position
No posted job description to refer to? Use this cover letter example for a job that isn’t advertised to help you explain how you heard about the role and to share your enthusiasm about joining the team. Mention your top skills and accomplishments.
New position with current employer cover letter
A modern cover letter includes your career progress, goals reached while at the company and the knowledge acquired through experience. Find new footing in your career by adding a cover letter to your application.
Create an effective cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder, which will help with:
- Expert guidance along the way.
- A variety of formats to download and save your cover letter.
Job application letter for a new position with current employer
Put your best foot forward with a compelling cover letter for a resume. Like this sample letter of interest for a job with the same employer, point out your accomplishments and explain how you will benefit your employer on future projects.
Referral cover letter
You’ve made an impression on your previous employers and they’re willing to back it up. With this classic cover letter, you can expand your skills and what you can bring to a new employer.
Our Cover Letter Builder will help you craft a great cover letter with the referrals to back it up and:
- Expert advice on every step
- Professional content suggestions
Referral cover letter sample
When done correctly, telling an employer that someone in the company referred you lets them know you’re someone they can trust. Use our referral cover letter sample to do this correctly and catch their attention the right way.
Other cover letter resources
The following articles are a great source of information to make our cover letter examples your own:
- How to Position a Past Cannabis Industry Job in Your Cover Letter
- 5 Qualities That are Part of Every Successful Cover Letter
- 9 Best Cover Letter Tips for Extroverts
Get noticed with a polished cover letter
Use our cover letter examples as inspiration to write a perfect cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder. We guide you through each section of your cover letter and provide expert phrases you can include in just a few clicks.
Cover letter examples FAQ
Last Updated: February 13, 2023
Why should I use your cover letter examples?
My Perfect Resume has 200+ cover letter examples that work for job seekers from all industries and job titles. We offer the following features:
- They’re professionally designed to look their best: Our cover letter samples and cover letter templates are built to display your content neatly and effectively.
- Guidance and tips for every job and industry: We have an example cover letter for every job. Select any example on this page and go to our Cover Letter Builder, which supplies expert suggestions and tips for every section.
- Customize your letter for different jobs: It’s easy to update these application cover letter examples so they fit different jobs — and if you use our builder, you can save and download as many versions of your letter as you need.
- Match your perfect letter with a perfect resume: Use our Resume Builder to create resumes that complement your letter in look and layout.
Are cover letters really necessary?
The short answer is yes. According to the Society of Human Resources Management , a cover letter demonstrates your genuine interest in the job and company. It’s also an opportunity to discuss your accomplishments, introduce yourself more personally, and make a more detailed case for why the employer should be interested in you. This is why we have 200+ cover letter examples for jobs in dozens of industries — you can find the inspiration you need to write a letter that makes an impact.
Should you write a different cover letter for each job application?
Absolutely!
Every job application and company is different. Like a resume, you should use a sample cover letter to tailor your letter to the job you’re applying for and the employer you’re directing that letter to. You want to ensure that what you write and your tone align with the company culture, values and, most importantly, the job application.
What should not be included in a cover letter?
- Spelling or grammatical errors
- Information not relevant to the job
- Personal information, such as your religious beliefs and political affiliations
- Negative comments about your current or former employer
- Overly flattering language
- Your salary or work benefits requirements
Review our library of 200+ cover letter examples for jobs in various industries to get a good idea of what to write in your cover letter.
Should you address employment gaps in a cover letter?
You do not have to discuss the details of employment gaps due to personal reasons (such as an illness or a family matter that needed attending). Neither do gaps caused by your former employer firing or laying you off.
Instead, follow our employment gap cover letter example on this page, and write about your skills, qualifications and relevant experiences and how excited you are about this new opportunity. Just be prepared to discuss employment gaps during the job interview phase . If you can show you were busy with other important pursuits or trained on new skills during your time off, mention them in your letter.
How to write a cover letter that gets noticed?
Here are some tips for writing a great cover letter:
- Research the position and memorize the job requirements.
- Pick a professional cover letter template from our extensive library. It’s best practice to match it to your resume template.
- Find an example of an application letter for a job in your field for inspiration (we have more than 200 cover letter samples to choose from).
- Add your contact information to the header.
- Write the date.
- Add the recipient’s address.
- Address the hiring manager by name.
- Write a short but powerful opening paragraph to introduce yourself.
- Give details about your skills and experience in the body of your application letter.
- Write a closing paragraph encouraging them to contact you for an interview.
- Sign off professionally.
- Proofread your letter at least twice.
- Use information from your resume but don’t just repeat it; instead, use your cover letter to elaborate on it.
Kellie Hanna
Content strategist, career advice expert.
Kellie is the content strategist for My Perfect Resume. She has more than 20 years of experience in digital media and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate their careers. She has a B.A. in English and writing from Temple University.
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Anatomy of a cover letter, build a cover letter that gets noticed, choose a cover letter example, choose and customize a cover letter template, format your cover letter properly, write an interview-winning cover letter.
When used as a companion to a resume, a cover letter, also known as an employment application letter, is a valuable tool for job seekers to introduce themselves to an employer and illustrate their skills, experience, and professional achievements.
Eighty-three percent of HR professionals say a great cover letter can help you get an interview — even if your resume is subpar. A well-written cover letter significantly improves the chances of your resume being reviewed by employers because it allows you to:
- Explain why you’re interested in the job and the company.
- Express your passion for the job and/or industry.
- Expand on professional achievements from your resume.
- Account for red flags, such as employment gaps and frequent job changes.
Since 2005, millions of job seekers from all over the world have trusted Resume Now’s cover letter examples, professional templates, expert tips and interviewing lessons to help them get the jobs they want.
Whether you are a student, applying for your first job or an experienced professional, our easy-to-use Cover Letter Builder can help you create a polished custom cover letter to accompany your resume.
Our cover letter tools and services include:
- Pre-written text examples to fit most jobs across industries
- HR-approved design templates
- Professional cover letter writing services from experienced experts
- Powerful job search tools to help you find the perfect position
All cover letters should contain the following:
A header: A cover letter header contains contact information for both the applicant and the potential employer.
A salutation: Also known as a greeting, a salutation should address the hiring manager directly whenever possible. If you don’t know the hiring manager’s name and can not find it through research, then use “Dear Hiring Manager,”.
The body: The body is the “meat” of a cover letter. The body of an application letter includes an introductory paragraph and up to three additional paragraphs that describe your qualifications.
The closing: The final paragraph is where you close your cover letter, thanking the hiring manager for their time and inviting them to contact you for an interview.
Complimentary closure and signature: This is where you sign off with an appropriate closing line and your full name. For example, “Sincerely, Karla Anderson.”
Our cover letter builder will help you quickly create a custom and professional cover letter that hiring managers want to read.
All it takes is 15 minutes and 7 easy steps:
When you’re done, you should build a resume to go along with your cover letter. Use our library of resume examples to find inspiration and our resume templates to figure out the right style for your career path. Finally, we will teach you how to write a resume and select the right resume format for your application.
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Most people think cover letter writing is hard, and that’s understandable! Pressure to get the job, combined with the uncertainty of what to write and how to begin, can stop anyone in their tracks.
That’s where Resume Now’s professionally written cover letter examples come in. Our examples cover 39 industries, from accounting to transportation, and hundreds of job titles. Whether you’re applying for your first job or are a veteran job seeker, our cover letter examples can help you:
- Set the correct tone for your cover letter.
- Decide what information to include.
- Ensure you’re using the right format.
- Pick a design template.
- Find the best words to express yourself.
Resume Now’s cover letter templates will give your letter a polished look that will turn hiring managers’ heads and make them want to know more about you. Whether you need a professional template for your no-nonsense job or a modern or creative template for a career in the arts, our wide variety of styles ensure you’ll find one that’s perfect for you. And we’ll make sure you’ve got all the right pieces, such as sections, margins, alignment and keywords in place.
The way you format your cover letter matters. You could be highly qualified but if your cover letter is sloppy, poorly designed and unprofessional, then hiring managers will question your enthusiasm (and possibly your fit!) for the job. Our cover letter formatting guide will help you select the right font, spacing, margins and alignment to impress your next employer.
A well-written application letter will help you flesh out the professional achievements found in your resume, and expand on the parts of your experience that are most relevant to the job at hand. Writing a professional cover letter is easy when you have the right tools and resources to guide you through the process, such as targeting your letter for each job, avoiding common annoying mistakes , and properly addressing salary requirements.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that introduces you to a prospective employer. Designed to accompany your resume, cover letters are a great way to highlight your skills, achievements and career goals in just a few paragraphs.
How do I write a simple cover letter?
To write a simple cover letter:
- Start with a header that includes your contact information as well as the employers.
- Address the hiring manager with a salutation such as “Dear Ms. Evans,” or “Dear Hiring Manager. Never use “To Whom it May Concern,” or “Dear Sir or Madam,”.
- Write a paragraph that introduces you and expresses your interest. Then add two or three paragraphs that give details about your qualifications and outline your professional accomplishments.
- Write a final paragraph restating your interest and thanking the employer for their time. Invite them to contact you for an interview.
Sign off respectfully and appropriately using your full name, like
“Thank you,
What is the right cover letter for my resume?
Crafting the right cover letter to submit with your resume is based on:
- Choosing the same formatting and style for both documents, including margins, font type, point size and even the type of bullet-points.
- Adding extra value to your cover letter. Don’t cover the same ground as your resume. Focus on different relevant achievements, and highlight your strengths in a way that shows a clear narrative on why you’re a great fit for the role.
- Getting across important points you can’t explain in your resume. If you job hopped, recently took a break from the workforce or are applying for your first position, you can explain why in your cover letter.
How long is a cover letter?
A cover letter should never be any longer than one page, consisting of up to five paragraphs: introduction (1), body (2-3) and closing (1).
How do you describe yourself in a cover letter?
Describe yourself in the best light, of course! Use your cover letter to tell the hiring manager exactly how you fit into the company, the culture, and what makes you uniquely qualified for the position. Be sure to highlight related quantifiable achievements and your top skills, and show your interest with enthusiasm.
Do you always need a cover letter?
Yes, you do! Always send a cover letter as a companion to a resume. Doing so will give you a leg up in the competitive job market because you will stand out as a dedicated professional.
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Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.
The correct salutation on a cover letter should always include the word “Dear” followed by the contact person to whom the letter is addressed. This should be followed by either a comma or a colon, then a blank line and the first line of the...
The sections of a resume should include personal information, an objective, employment history and educational history. Accomplishments relevant to the desired job position are also included. Make personal and professional references availa...
A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application (alongside your CV or Resume).
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
180+ Best Cover Letter Examples 2023 ✓ Free job-winning Cover letter Samples +expert guides ✓ Write professional cover letters in only 5 minutes.
When you're applying for a job, a cover letter lets you show a personal side and demonstrate why hiring you is a smart decision. Cover letters should be
While your résumé is meant to be a look back at your experience and where you've been, the cover letter should focus on the future and what
A cover letter is an application document you pair with your resume that explains why you want a particular job, and why you think you're the
A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. Its aim is to introduce yourself, outline your skills and experience, and
Like a resume, you should use a sample cover letter to tailor your letter to the job you're applying for and the employer you're directing that
CARC/OCS Resume and Cover Letter Webinar. Learn the nuts and bolts of getting started. See the CARC or OCS websites for dates. • HES Call-ins. First Monday
A cover letter is a one-page document that introduces you to a prospective employer. Designed to accompany your resume, cover letters are a great way to