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Do You Need a Cover Letter When It's Not Required?
When you do (and don't) need a cover letter to apply for a job.
Alison Doyle is one of the nation’s foremost career experts.
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Why Write a Cover Letter?
Reasons to include a cover letter, reasons not to include a cover letter.
- Tips for Writing a Cover Letter
Do you really need a cover letter if a company doesn't ask for one? Writing a lot of cover letters during a job search is often both challenging and time-consuming. Because of this, it's not surprising that applicants often hesitate to include a cover letter when it is not explicitly required by an employer.
If you're wondering if you should include a cover letter, the short answer is yes. That said, there are a few exceptions.
You should almost always submit a cover letter , even if the company doesn't ask for one.
Here's what you need to know about the value of cover letters, along with the situations where you can skip a cover letter.
If you're serious about landing the job, a well-written cover letter gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer in a narrative format, and explain why you are an ideal candidate. Taking the time to match your qualifications to the job can help you get selected for an interview.
All of your efforts in the cover letter will help hiring managers do their job of screening applicants, and may get your resume a closer look.
A cover letter also affords you the opportunity to highlight your strongest qualifications.
An effective, well-written, and customized cover letter also makes it clear that you are highly interested in the job. That's because it shows the hiring manager that you want the job enough to go the extra distance.
To Share Extra Information
A cover letter gives you an opportunity to include details that your resume does not contain. For example, if you are applying from a distance, your cover letter will enable you to present a rationale for relocation and to mention that you will be in the area shortly for a possible interview.
To Explain a Gap
Gaps in employment with reasonable explanations can also be addressed in your letter. A cover letter is also an ideal place to provide specific examples that prove you have the skills and experience listed on your resume.
The Employer May Expect One
Additionally, some employers expect to receive cover letters even though they did not stipulate that a cover letter was required in their job advertisements.
Candidates who don't take the time to compose a letter are often viewed as less motivated for the job.
In many cases, employers won't even look at a job application that doesn't contain a cover letter or letter of interest.
For some jobs, you won't need a cover letter to apply. Some employers don't accept cover letters as part of the application process. For other positions, there may be no way to submit one. If a cover letter is optional, it's better to skip it if you don't have the time to compose a well-written one.
When the Employer Doesn't Want One
If the job application instructs that you should not include a cover letter, then it's definitely best to follow directions so as not to annoy your potential employer.
When You Don't Have Time
No letter is much better than a poorly written one. A well-composed cover letter serves as a sample of your writing ability, but the opposite is also true. If you don't have time to write a well-crafted cover letter that pitches your skills and positions you for the job, forego the effort.
When There's No Way to Submit One
Also, if the company asks you to submit your application through an online platform, and there is no place for you to submit a cover letter, don't worry about it.
Tips for Writing a Cover Letter That Will Impress
When you do include a cover letter with your resume, it's important to make it a good one. Here are tips for writing a cover letter that will make the best impression and add value to your application.
Kelly Miller. / The Balance
- Make it targeted. Be sure to compose a targeted letter that is written with the job listing in mind. Focus on the skills and abilities you possess that make you a strong fit for the specific job.
- Keep it short. Make sure that your letters are concise (no more than one page topping out at five paragraphs) and that every statement you make conveys something significant about your qualifications for the candidacy.
- Go beyond your resume. Avoid simply repeating your resume. Provide examples not listed in your resume, and expand upon things mentioned only briefly in your resume. Your cover letter should have a distinct purpose regarding your application.
- Edit, edit, edit. Errors in your cover letter can hurt your chances of getting an interview. Errors make you look sloppy, or worse, not educated. Be sure to thoroughly read your letter before submitting it. Consider asking a friend or colleague to read it as well to check for typos, grammatical errors, and confusing language.
Key Takeaways
- Writing a cover letter makes the hiring manager's job easier, by highlighting exactly why you're the right match for the role. That gives your application an edge.
- Even if the company doesn't specifically request a cover letter, it's a good idea to write one if you're interested in the role at hand.
- Skip a cover letter if the employer says not to write one, or if there isn't a place to include one in an online application form.
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Finally, an Answer To: Are Cover Letters Still Necessary?
Hot jobs on the muse.
The cover letter is a contender for job seekers’ most hated part of the job search. Personally, when browsing job boards, I’ve always gravitated toward the postings that said “cover letter optional” or didn’t mention one at all— and I’m a writer. When you’re deep in a job hunt—particularly one where you feel like you’re throwing applications into a black hole—cover letters might feel pointless. It’s not like we’re mailing out our resumes anymore—so what is the letter covering? Does anyone read cover letters anymore? Are cover letters even necessary at all, or are they outdated?
I set out to find the answer by speaking to experts, combing through studies, and putting out a call to hiring managers and recruiters to find out how they handle cover letters when they’re making hires.
Does Anyone Still Read Cover Letters?
In a 2020 survey of 236 hiring managers and recruiters, ResumeGo found that 87% of respondents read cover letters. Only 13% did not. I got similar answers in my own research. The overwhelming majority of recruiters and hiring managers I heard from—folks who work across career functions and industries—told me they do still read cover letters in some capacity.
The most common answers I got were that hiring professionals read cover letters:
- For all qualified applicants
- For any candidates they’re considering moving to the next step of the hiring process
- For any candidates who are on the border of being moved forward
- For any candidates whose resumes raised questions for them
So if you’re submitting applications to any opening you come across and apply for a manager-level position as an entry-level candidate, or upload a teaching-focused resume for an accounting job, don’t be surprised if your cover letter gets skipped. For the most part, if your resume doesn’t even come close, no one is going to bother reading your cover letter, says Muse career coach Eliot Kaplan , who spent 18 years as VP of Talent Acquisition at Hearst Magazines before founding Eliot Kaplan Coaching .
This does mark a shift in how hiring professionals use cover letters, however. Traditionally, the cover letter was the cover page for your resume (hence the name), so its purpose was to convince the reader to look at your resume. Now, your resume usually (though not always) gets looked at first, and your cover letter is there to further persuade the reader to move you to the next round in the hiring process. So while cover letters are serving a different purpose now, they’re still being read and considered.
Unsurprisingly, everyone I heard from involved in hiring for jobs where writing, editing, and/or messaging is a key skill said they read and considered cover letters. For example, Glen Muñoz, who has been in marketing and operations for over 30 years, says that he reads all cover letters for candidates who meet the minimum requirements because the cover letter serves as a sample of their written communication skills, which are of course vital to whether or not you can do these jobs. Kaplan also said this was true in journalism.
Outside of these careers, cover letters are still widely read by the hiring professionals I heard from. Hiring managers, recruiters, and HR professionals across sales, finance, healthcare, accounting, customer service, and yes, even tech indicated that they read and considered at least some—if not all—candidates’ cover letters. “If I didn’t read [an applicant’s cover letter], there’s another reason that I’m not going to hire them,” says Karen Gordon, VP of Growth for Goodshuffle Pro , who hires for various roles including software developers. Those who said they read cover letters at all usually read them for all positions even if they’re hiring across different functions.
Employers also read cover letters across experience levels. “I have found the cover letter to be an important arsenal in a job seeker’s toolbox, even those seeking higher-up roles,” says Paul French, founder and managing director of Intrinsic Search , a recruiting firm specializing in executive positions for SaaS companies. At the other end of the spectrum, Kaplan says entry-level candidate’s cover letters are useful for hiring professionals to see how your education, part-time jobs, and other less traditional sources of experience connect to the job you’re applying for: “If you have less of a track record, you’re going to have a little more vamping,” and your cover letter is the place that it happens.
In my research, I noticed that the hiring professionals most likely to say that they skipped or skimmed cover letters to save time identified themselves as recruiters. Respondents also mentioned knowing other hiring professionals who did not read cover letters, most often recruiters. In its 2020 Recruiter Nation Report , based on a survey of 806 recruiters conducted by Zogby Analytics, Jobvite found that just 27% of recruiters consider cover letters when evaluating a job application.
And it makes sense. Often a recruiter’s primary job is to find and screen candidates for open positions, meaning they might be looking at hundreds of applications a day for a range of jobs. However, recruiters are usually not the only person seeing an application before a final hiring decision is made. They’re just the first step. So a recruiter not reading your cover letter doesn’t mean that someone else–like the hiring manager or a future member of your team—won’t. For example, tech recruiter and Muse career coach Steven Davis admits that he doesn’t read every cover letter as a recruiter, but as a coach, he still encourages his clients to “write a concise, enthusiastic cover letter” because he believes they’re valuable pieces of a job application that can help you land a later-round interview.
It’s important to note that while the 2020 Recruiter Nation report found that only 27% of recruiters considered cover letters in their decision, that’s up from 8% in 2017—a threefold increase in as many years. So the number of recruiters who read and consider cover letters is actually growing, not shrinking.
Do Cover Letters Help You Get a Job?
“For 80-90% of jobs I still believe in the cover letter,” Kaplan says. Cover letters help make the case for you as an applicant and can provide valuable information to recruiters and hiring managers, not only through their content but just through the fact that you took the time to write one at all.
In ResumeGo’s survey of recruiters and hiring managers, 65% of respondents said they are “materially influenced” by cover letters in their hiring decisions. ResumeGo also conducted a field experiment, submitting fake applications to over 7,000 job postings with either no cover letter (leaving the field blank or writing in “N/A” when needed), a generic cover letter, or a tailored cover letter that gave details on how the applicant matched the company culture and job description.
After 30 days, applications with tailored cover letters were 53% more likely to have gotten an interview callback than applications with no cover letter, and even generic cover letters were 17% better than no cover letter at all. Meaning, yes: Cover letters do still matter and they can help you get to the next round in the hiring process.
“One of the biggest takeaways was that tailored cover letters are far superior to generic cover letters when it comes to boosting a job applicant’s chances of being hired,” says Peter Yang, CEO of ResumeGo. Tailoring a cover letter doesn’t necessarily mean starting from scratch each time. You’re likely applying to a lot of similar jobs, so you might create a basic template for yourself, but add to it based on the job and company, Kaplan says. He estimates you can keep about two-thirds of your cover letter the same across most positions and customize the remaining third.
Read More: The Best Cover Letter Examples for Every Type of Job Seeker
When Do You Absolutely Need a Cover Letter?
There are some situations where you should definitely include a cover letter or you’ll greatly increase the risk of being rejected when you otherwise might’ve had a chance.
Many job applications require a cover letter and in those cases, if you want a real shot, you have to write one whether you want to or not, Kaplan says. You don’t want the first message you send a prospective employer to be that you can’t or won’t follow directions.
You might also have some other signal that a cover letter is crucial to a specific role. Before I applied to my current job at The Muse, I saw that my future manager had tweeted out the job listing. In the tweet, she said to include a cover letter; they’d be using it to gauge my writing skills and it was a chance to sell myself for the role. So of course I wrote one! In addition to social media, this signal could also come from conversations with current and former employees of the company, or the job description might stress the cover letter’s importance or ask you to include certain information in it, even if the online application doesn’t have a mandatory slot for it.
But job seekers don’t always get a giant flashing neon sign declaring that a cover letter is crucial for a particular position. In some cases, the cue that a cover letter is extra important will come from your side. If you have any special situations surrounding your candidacy or there’s anything on your resume or application that needs additional context to be understood, writing a cover letter is really in your best interest. If there’s something on (or not on) your resume that might be a red flag to people reading, your cover letter can keep your application out of the rejection pile.
According to the experts, some special situations that can be explained by a cover letter include:
- Career transitions : If this is going to be your first job in a new of type role or a different industry, or if you’ve followed a non-linear career path, a cover letter can explain why you want this job and how your past experiences have prepared you for it. It’s also an opportunity to highlight how your transferable skills will help you in your next job. For example, Kaplan once coached a “management consultant who wanted to become a fighter pilot.” She wrote a compelling story about her background, how she overcame obstacles in her past jobs, and how she would do that in the air.
- Employment gaps: Whether this will be your first job after your employment gap or you have one further back on your resume that you’re worried might raise eyebrows, including a cover letter gives you an opportunity to explain.
- Out-of-area applications: If you’re moving and hoping to secure a job before you get there, you can explain that in a cover letter so hiring managers understand why your application is coming from a different geographic location.
- Personal connections to a company or job referrals: If someone in your network referred you to a job or you have another connection to the company, this goes in your cover letter, not on your resume, Kaplan says.
Ultimately, it’s up to you whether or not to write a cover letter. In the ResumeGo survey, only 26% of respondents said they “punished” or “deducted points” from candidates who didn’t include a cover letter when the job posting didn’t require one, and in its 2018 Job Seeker Nation Study , Jobvite found that only 45% of respondents had submitted a cover letter for their current or most recent job. So you can definitely get a job without a cover letter. But ask yourself this: Why would you skip out on the chance to make your application even stronger?
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Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2023? Do I Need a Cover Letter?
Are cover letters still necessary in today’s job search , how important is a cover letter, is a cover letter always required, should you send a cover letter if it’s optional, why is a cover letter so important, do you need a cover letter, do employers and recruiters read cover letters, do candidates send cover letters, in what form should you send a cover letter, cover letter or resume—what gets read first, methodology and limitations, was it interesting here are similar articles.
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33+ Cover Letter Tips and Advice to Stand Out in 2023
Do I Need a Cover Letter in 2023? Are Cover Letters Mandatory?
During the job-hunting process, you might find yourself asking “do I really need a cover letter?”
And honestly, that’s a very good question.
You might’ve heard a lot of recruiters say that cover letters aren’t nearly as important as the resume. Some recruiters even openly admit that they don’t read cover letters at all.
So, no wonder that you’re confused about whether or not you really need a cover letter.
In this article, we’re going to deep dive into the topic and teach you when you really need a cover letter (and when you don’t).
- Whether you need to include a cover letter in your application (and why)
- When to not include a cover letter with your resume
- When to really put effort into your cover letter
Do I Need a Cover Letter For My Resume
Short answer: yes , you should submit a cover letter alongside your resume.
Here’s why:
- Most job openings require you to submit a cover letter. Recruiters might not have the time to read ALL the cover letters they receive, but they will definitely read cover letters if they’re on the fence for a candidate. Besides, even if they never get to your cover letter, failing to submit one when it’s required will be a red flag.
- A cover letter shows that you’ve put in the extra effort. So, even if the recruiters don’t read them, they will know that you really want the job and that you are committed to taking all necessary steps to show you’re worth it.
- A cover letter can set you apart from other candidates. Imagine this scenario: a recruiter is looking at two candidates with the same exact professional background and resume. The difference? One submitted an A++ cover letter that showed exactly why they’re the perfect fit for the job, while the other just copied and pasted an internet template. Which one would you pick? Our point exactly!
The above being said, there do exist a few cases where a cover letter isn’t necessary and a few others where you shouldn't just submit a cover letter, but you should really put in the extra effort to make it memorable!
Ready to go through them?
When Not to Include a Cover Letter
The 3 cases where you don’t need to include a cover letter with your application are:
#1. The job opening doesn’t require one.
Yeap, in some cases, the job description will specifically instruct you not to submit a cover letter when you’re applying for the position. Needless to say, submitting one regardless of the instructions will not make you a poster child for dedication; it will just show you can’t follow instructions.
#2. You don’t have the time to customize your cover letters.
If there’s one thing that’s worse than not submitting a cover letter, is submitting a bad cover letter. What do we mean by bad? An uncustomized cover letter, or a cover letter based on a one-fits-all kind of template that you plan on mass-sending to all the jobs you’re applying for.
So, if you’re applying to many jobs and you just don’t have the time (or creativity) to write a separate cover letter tailored to each job, then just don’t write one instead of making that cover letter mistake.
#3. There is no place to upload one on the application platform.
When you’re filling out an online job application, you might notice there is no place to upload a cover letter.
Consider that a clear sign that a cover letter is not required for that particular role.
When Should You Put Extra Effort to Submit a Cover Letter
Now, as we said, the best practice is to submit a cover letter with your resume for any job, internship, or even internal position that you apply for (unless they explicitly ask you not to).
That being said, there are a few cases in which you should REALLY submit a cover letter—and put in extra effort to make it significant:
- You have important information to add. It might be a career gap, the need for a relocation, or a career change - anything, basically, that you can’t go into detail about in your resume. Your cover letter is your chance to explain it (especially if it adds significant value to your application).
- There’s a personal connection/referral. If someone has personally referred you to the company, make sure to acknowledge that in your cover letter. A personal referral means bonus points for your application, so don’t miss out on a chance to mention it.
- You have a link to the company. Did you complete an internship at the company? Or maybe you know the hiring manager or someone higher up the ranks outside of work. No matter the case, be upfront about any link you may have to the company in your cover letter. It will probably do your application good or at least show those reading it that you’re transparent.
- It’s your dream job. Without making it a love letter to the company, use your cover letter to express what this job means to you professionally and how it’ll help you thrive. Passion goes a long way!
6 Tips For a Perfect Cover Letter
The bottom line?
Overwhelmingly, a cover letter is an essential part of your job application and you should include one with your resume.
So, as you can imagine, your cover letter should be on par with your resume. Before you start writing your cover letter, here are a few tips to make the process easier for you:
- Keep it short. One page is more than enough when it comes to cover letters. Actually, the optimal length for a cover letter is between 250-400 words long.
- Follow submission instructions. In the job description, look out for specifics on the cover letter format (Word or PDF), fonts and margins, and content (such as which sections or information to include).
- Proofread your cover letter. Once you’re done writing, make sure your cover letter doesn’t have any grammar or spelling mistakes. Use spell check software such as Grammarly to be on the safe side.
- Avoid cliches. Saying you’re a “great team player” or “effective communicator” will get you nowhere. Instead, aim to show it by backing it up with your experience. Think, “I’m a great communicator” versus “I’m a great communicator, having closed 50+ sales per month at my last job.”
- Enhance your personal brand. Opt to use the same fonts, margins, colors, and style in both your resume and cover letter. In this way, you can highlight your personal brand and make more of an impression on the hiring manager.
- Use action verbs . To make your achievements stand out, use action verbs. So, instead of repeating “I was responsible for” or “I was in charge of,” you can use action verbs such as “managed” or “coordinated.”
Do you still have some unanswered questions? Here are the most frequently asked questions on whether cover letters are mandatory.
Do I need a cover letter for a part-time job?
You should follow the same practice with your part-time job application as you would with a full-time one. That means you should definitely submit a strong cover letter with your resume (unless otherwise indicated in the job description).
Do I need a cover letter for an internal position?
When you apply for an internal position within the company, you should create a cover letter to highlight your experience and professional interest in the position.
Do I need a cover letter for an internship?
Yes, you should include a cover letter with your resume when you’re applying for an internship. The cover letter should focus on your skills and strengths, your education, and your dedication to the internship program.
Not sure how to write a cover letter for an internship from scratch? This article will tell you all you need to know!
Do I need a cover letter for an entry-level job?
Yes, an entry-level cover letter is a must.
You might not have many professional or relevant experiences to list on your resume (e.g. you’re a recent college graduate or you’re changing career paths), so the cover letter is where you can convey your enthusiasm and commitment. Plus, you can also (in words) explain how your skills from your university or past career translate into the job you’re applying for.
Do employers read the cover letter or resume first?
Generally, employers will first read your resume to see if you have the relevant experience or skills for the position. From there, they decide whether your cover letter is worth reading or not. If you send your cover letter in the body of the email where you have attached your resume, though, the recruiter will probably skim through it before opening your resume.
Keep in mind that in such a case your cover letter should be perfect, especially in terms of spelling and business etiquette. If the recruiter spots a “u r” instead of “you are,” or a smiley face, they might not even get to your resume.
Want your cover letter to match your resume? We are confident that the hiring manager will appreciate the effort. Do it effortlessly by using Novorésumé's matching cover letter and resume templates !
Key Takeaways
Well, that was all on whether cover letters are mandatory in 2023. We hope that we answered all your questions on the topic.
Here’s a quick review of the main things we covered:
- In 98% of cases, you should include a cover letter in your job application. Although recruiters might not always read it, they expect candidates to submit one. A cover letter will considerably boost your chances and set you apart from other candidates with similar backgrounds and resumes.
- Don’t include a cover letter if the job opening specifies it’s not necessary, if you don’t have time to customize it to the position, or if there is no place to upload one in the application platform.
- Put extra effort in your cover letter if you have extra information to add to your resume if you have been personally referred for the job, if you have a link to the company, or if you’re applying to your dream job.
Related Readings:
- How to Start a Cover Letter
- How to End a Cover Letter
- How to Address a Cover Letter
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Home Cover Letter Help What Is a Cover Letter?
What Is a Cover Letter?
Most jobs require you to submit a cover letter with your application. But what exactly is a cover letter? Read on to learn what a cover letter is, what you need to include in yours, and all about the different types of cover letters.
Your resume shows employers your relevant work experience, skills, and education. But they also want to know about your career, accomplishments, and what motivates you. That’s where your cover letter comes in.
Cover Letter Definition
A cover letter is a one-page document that you include in a job application (along with your resume ). Your cover letter should introduce you to an employer, and give them additional information about your qualifications and character.
The goal of a cover letter is to convince employers that you’re interested in and qualified for a job. Your cover letter is also a great place to provide additional details about your work history, skills, or life situation to a prospective employer.
When written well, your cover letter provides important information that your resume isn’t able to communicate.
Still unclear on what a cover letter is, how to write a cover letter , or which types of cover letters exist? Don’t worry — we have a variety of resources to help you learn everything you need to know and put together the perfect cover letter:
- Cover letter examples
- How to start a cover letter
- Cover letter format
- How to address a cover letter
Example cover letter for a job application
Not sure what a cover letter is supposed to look like? Here’s a simple cover letter example written by a mid-level candidate:
What should I include in a cover letter for a job?
Here’s a quick look at what to include in a cover letter for a job:
- Contact information – List your name and contact details in your cover letter header , followed by the hiring manager’s name and contact details.
- Salutation – Greet the hiring manager ideally with their preferred honorific (Mr. / Mrs. / Ms. / Dr. / etc.) and their name. Can’t find their name? “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.
- Opening paragraph – In your cover letter’s first paragraph, formally greet the hiring manager. Introduce yourself, and explain how you found the job posting.
- Body paragraph(s) – Provide information about your previous work experience, and how it’s relevant to the job. Also use this space to list details about your professional accomplishments and skills.
- Closing paragraph – In your closing paragraph, restate your interest in the position, and thank the hiring manager for their time.
- Sign-off – End your cover letter with a sign-off like “Sincerely,” and then sign your name below.
To illustrate, here’s an example of a cover letter with each section outlined:
Types of cover letters used in 2023
Your cover letter is the most versatile part of your job application. You can use each section to showcase your personality, argue why you’re the best person for the role, and even explain unique circumstances (if you have any).
The content and style of your cover letter depend on your work history, level of experience, and the kind of job you’re applying for.
While your cover letter can be rewritten to fit any scenario, there are several common types of cover letters. These include:
- General cover letters
- Internal position cover letters
- Career change cover letters
- Scholarship cover letters
- Creative cover letters
1. General cover letter
A general cover letter focuses broadly on your work experience and skills so that you can easily modify it for each job you apply for.
Think of the general cover letter as your default cover letter .
Applying for a range of jobs in a similar industry and already have consistent work experience? A general cover letter is perfect because it presents a straightforward overview of your qualifications and accomplishments and can be quickly modified based on where you’re applying.
2. Cover letter for an internal position
A cover letter for an internal position is what you submit to your employer if you’re applying for a different position within your current organization.
For example, if you’re applying for a promotion or want to transfer departments, you might need to write an internal cover letter to formally apply for the new position.
A cover letter for an internal position differs from a regular cover letter because it doesn’t include a formal introduction (your company already knows you). Instead, it focuses on your commitment to the company you currently work for , and your specific accomplishments while working there.
3. Career change cover letter
Making a major change in your career? You’ll need to write a career change cover letter to communicate your situation to employers and convince them that you’re worth hiring.
A career change cover letter is different from other types of cover letters because it focuses on your transferable skills and your reasons for changing careers rather than your chronological work history.
4. Scholarship cover letter
Many scholarships require you to submit a scholarship cover letter along with your other application materials.
Writing a cover letter for a scholarship gives you the opportunity to highlight your:
- Commitment to your education
The goal of such a cover letter is to ultimately convince scholarship committees that you deserve their assistance.
A scholarship cover letter differs from a standard cover letter because it targets your future ambitions and educational achievements rather than your work experience.
5. Creative cover letter
Need to stand out from other applicants? A creative cover letter can help you grab the attention of employers using humor, design, or a unique detail.
Creative cover letters differ from a general cover letter by featuring some kind of unique joke, a casual writing style, or an interesting design approach. They can be as serious or as casual as is appropriate for the job.
However, you should only use a creative cover letter if you’re applying to a company that you know has a casual work culture and will respond positively to a less traditional job application.
Why including a cover letter with your resume is important
Still wondering “ are cover letters even necessary in 2023? ”
Including a cover letter in your job application is essential in a variety of situations. For example, you should always write a cover letter if:
- The job advertisement requests that you submit a cover letter
- Someone at the company suggested you include them in your cover letter as a referral
- The job you’re applying for requires writing skills
However, even if the job you want doesn’t require a cover letter, you should still write one when possible.
Including a well-written cover letter in your job application helps you stand out from other candidates. It can even convince an employer that you’re the right person for the job – even if your resume isn’t 100% what they’re looking for .
Finally, your cover letter is the perfect opportunity to explain your unique situation and qualifications. This much-needed context is something that your resume simply can’t communicate on its own.
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Written by Conrad Benz
Conrad Benz is a Digital Media Specialist & Resume Expert at Resume Genius, where he helps countless job-seekers craft standout resumes and launch their careers. His... more
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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job Application
Including a cover letter with you job application takes a little extra time, but it can mean the difference between getting an interview and your CV being discarded.
![[Featured image] Applicant writes a cover letter on a blue clipboard](https://d3njjcbhbojbot.cloudfront.net/api/utilities/v1/imageproxy/https://images.ctfassets.net/wp1lcwdav1p1/6hXTBWimkTK7cwzp8n2Bia/4825f1492b3712171214e072bcc6d247/GettyImages-1159565335__2_.jpg?w=1500&h=680&q=60&fit=fill&f=faces&fm=jpg&fl=progressive&auto=format%2Ccompress&dpr=1&w=1000&h= "is a cover letter necessary for a job application")
Learn how to write an effective cover letter as part of your job application to maximise your chances of getting an interview.
When applying for a job, more often than not, you will need to include a cover letter. Consider your cover letter your sales page, giving an introduction to yourself and an invitation to the recruiter to read your CV or application. It’s not always clear whether you need a cover letter or not when studying a job advert, so if you’re unsure, always include one. A good cover letter could be the difference between the hiring manager reading your CV, or discarding your application and moving on.
Get your facts together
Writing a cover letter for the first time can seem a daunting prospect. With so much that could be included, it’s hard to know where to start. The best place is by getting your facts together and deciding what you want to include.
Think of all your accomplishments to date that are relevant to the role and make a list. Try not to use anything that comes directly from your CV. Your cover letter is the place to elaborate on the points in your CV to provide more detail and to really highlight what you can do, rather than repeating points.
Also do some research on the company. Find out what its values are, its mission, and any defining features. This will help you tailor your experience and skills to the company culture and give you some background to explain why you are a good fit.
Address the criteria
It’s important that you don’t include anything and everything. Less is more with a job application cover letter. You will be scored on how well you meet the selection criteria, so use that as a guide for what to include. Link everything you write back to the criteria, and try to find relevant examples where possible.
If you don’t have an industry related example to hit a criterium, use something else, but make it very clear what it is demonstrating. There are many ways to demonstrate soft skills. For example, learning a language can demonstrate your communication skills, and being part of a sports team can show that you know how to work well with others.
When you know what you want to include, put a plan in place for the structure of the letter, and writing it will be much easier.
Start with a strong opening
If you want a recruiter to read the entirety of your cover letter and consequently move on to your CV, the opening is what you need to focus on. You want to draw the reader in and impress them enough to keep their attention. This means addressing the letter properly and giving a clear reason for writing.
In the case of a job application cover letter, you will need to state what you are applying for and what makes you the ideal candidate. This will be covered further in the bulk of the letter, but the first paragraph can be a summary of your experience, skills, and accomplishments, linked clearly to why this makes you the ideal candidate and giving a taste of what’s to come in the rest of the letter.
Make connections
Your research on the company will be beneficial in helping you to tailor the cover letter for a job application. Generic cover letters don’t do well. Job application cover letters that have been tailored to the role perform best. Aside from ensuring you evidence how you meet the job criteria, you can also make it clear that you know the company you’re applying to and value what it does.
Mention something in your cover letter that particularly draws you to the position or company and aligns with your values, experience, or way of working to show that you have done your research and have picked this company specifically as a result.
Be confident about your achievements
The body of your cover letter is where you highlight your relevant achievements in relation to the role you’re applying for. Don’t be vague here. Clear, evidence-based examples do best when communicating your value, so be confident in citing what you’ve accomplished throughout your career and how that relates to what you can do in the role in question.
Use numbers
To back up your accomplishments, use numbers to really highlight your results. Rather than stating you increased a company’s ROI, how much did you increase it by? If you have a percentage value, this adds clout to your examples. Similarly, use figures when talking about how many people you manage or how many delegates you got through the door at an event you organised. Adding a measurable gives your achievements more weight.
Use keywords
To ensure that you're really tailoring your job application cover letter, it’s helpful to use the job description to pick out keywords. Using the exact wording used in the advert, job description, and person specification, will mean you have the best chance of passing ATS screening systems, which scan your application for keywords to determine whether you are a good match.
Be positive and enthusiastic
Give your cover letter for a job a positive, enthusiastic tone. Use future tense to show how you will use your skills and experience to benefit the company you’re applying to and show how keen you are to take on a new role and new challenges.
If you are lacking experience in some areas, don’t highlight it. Always find a way to compensate for it, without implying it is a negative factor. For example, if you don’t have experience in project management, but you have a qualification in Scrum, write about your qualification and all the benefits that brings, without pointing out your lack of experience.
Call to action
Your cover letter should always end with a clear call to action. In your last paragraph, sum up your skills and experience and make it apparent that you would welcome discussion around your application and the role. You can be bold and propose your availability or simply tell the reader that you will look forward to hearing from them regarding an interview.
Cover letter structure
Taking on board all of the advice above, you can consider the following structure for your cover letter for a job application. This can of course be varied to suit your needs but is a great outline. Look to write no more than a page, unless you are writing a cover letter that is a part of the application process and you need to address all of the essential criteria. In this case, take the space you need.
Dear …………………………………
I’m writing in application of the role of XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX which I saw advertised on XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX. - Approx 10-20 words.
Opening paragraph: Cover why you are writing (what you are applying for), why you are interested in this company and role, and why you are a great fit (giving an overview of your relevant skills and experience). - Approx70-100 words
Middle paragraphs: Depending on what you need to cover, this could vary between one and three paragraphs. This is essentially the most important part of the cover letter, where you detail your skills, experience and accomplishments, in evidence of the selection criteria. Pick out the most important requirements from the person specification and evidence your ability to meet them. - 100 - 250 words in total.
Closing paragraph: Include a brief summary of why you are the ideal candidate for the role and include a strong call to action. - Approx 25- 50 words
Get started
Use this guide to write a cover letter for a job that can help you get you noticed and land an interview. For advice on how to write cover letters for specific roles, you can take a look at these articles. If you are looking for further support, you can take a look at cover letter courses on Coursera as a starting point.
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Professional Cover Letter Examples to Apply for a Job in 2023
Below you'll see cover letters for 100+ professions grouped by industry. Scroll down and you'll get a breakdown of a perfect sample and suggestions for cover letter designs.
Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from 18 professional cover letter templates that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.
Sample cover letter for a resume made with our builder—See more templates and create your cover letter here .
One of our users, Nikos, had this to say:
[I used] a nice template I found on Zety. My resume is now one page long, not three . With the same stuff.
Categories:
- Accounting & Finance
- Construction
- Creative & Cultural Fields
- Education & Learning
- Engineering & Scientific
- Food Service
- Government and NGOs
- Hospitality Travel & Transportation
- Information Technology (IT)
- Legal Services
- Law Enforcement & Emergency
- Management & Leadership
- Media and Entertainment
- Medicine Healthcare & Wellbeing
- Office & Administrative
- Retail & Customer Service
- Sales & Marketing
Professional Cover Letter Builder
Zety’s cover letter builder makes writing easy for you and less time-consuming, Use our beautiful, customizable templates recommended by HR pros to wow every recruiter.
Accounting & Finance Cover Letter Examples
Have a gig in finance or accounting? Want to move up the ladder? See our sample cover letters to get you there.
- Accounting Intern
- Accounts Payable
- Bank Teller
- Business Analyst
- Financial Analyst
- Investment Banking
Creative & Cultural Fields Cover Letter Examples
No need to bury your creative side when choosing the right cover letter template, we’ve got you covered.
- Art Teacher
- Editorial Assistant
- Event Manager
- Graphic Design
- Interior Design
- Photographer
- Production Assistant
- Public Relations (PR)
- Social Media Manager
- Technical Writer
Construction Cover Letter Examples
You need the right blueprint to craft your own cover letter. With our sample cover letters, you'll have the building block to finish yours quickly.
- Architecture
- Architecture Intern
Education & Learning Cover Letter Examples
Think of our sample cover letters as an open book take-home test—just fill in the blanks with the right answers.
- Academic Advisor
- Admissions Counselor
- Cover Letter for College Student
- Cover Letter for Scholarship Application
- Elementary Teacher
- for Graduate School
- Graduate Assistantship
- High School
- Library Assistant
- New Teacher
- Paraprofessional
- Recent Graduate
- Research Assistant
- School Counselor
- Substitute Teacher
- Teaching Assistant
Engineering & Scientific Cover Letter Examples
Our cover letters have been tested in the field and the results come up positive. Replicate your own with our guides!
- Computer Science
- Data Scientist
- Electrical Engineering
- Engineering
- Engineering Internship
- IT Technician
- Lab Technician
- Mechanical Engineer
Food Service Cover Letter Examples
To have the crème de la crème of cover letters for the food service industry, use our guides as the perfect recipe to get you there.
- Restaurant Manager
Government and NGOs Cover Letter Examples
Make your cover letter as presidential as they come with our expert guidance for governmental or NGO jobs.
Hospitality Travel & Transportation Cover Letter Examples
Don’t take the hard road when crafting your cover letter—use our transportation and hospitality industry sample cover letters to get your profile revved up.
- Flight Attendant
- Hospitality
Information Technology (IT) Cover Letter Examples
You code Java in your sleep but come up on the zero binary end when writing a cover letter. Use our examples line by line and you’ll be done in no time.
- Cyber Security
- Data Analyst
- Software Developer
- Software Engineer
- System Administrator
- UX Designer
- Web Developer
Legal Cover Letter Examples
You need a legal cover letter that won’t result in a hung (recruiter) jury. Use our sample cover letters to get a unanimous victory.
- Judicial Clerkship
- Legal Assistant
Law Enforcement & Emergency Services Cover Letter Examples
Give the Chief probable cause to read your resume. A professional law enforcement and emergency services cover letter will show them why you're the best choice.
- Firefighter
- Law Enforcement
- Police Officer
- Security Officer
Management & Leadership Cover Letter Examples
You know how to lead and use expert advice in the best way—follow our cover letter guides for management and leadership for 100% success.
- Operations Manager
- Product Manager
- Program Manager
- Project Coordinator
- Project Manager
Media and Entertainment Cover Letter Examples
Whether you craft compelling copy, take two on television, or report rumors and revelations, you know how to send a message. Show you're the best fit for the job with inspiration from our media examples of a cover letter.
Medicine Healthcare & Wellbeing Cover Letter Examples
The small details are what matters in this field—the same applies to making your healthcare cover letter better than all others.
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Hygiene
- Esthetician
- Massage Therapist
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Receptionist
- Medical Scribe
- New Grad Registered Nurse (RN)
- Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Student
- Occupational Therapy
- Pharmacy Technician
- Phlebotomist
- Physical Therapy
- Physician Assistant
- Speech Language Pathologist (SLP)
- Veterinary Assistant
Manufacturing & Warehousing Cover Letter Examples
Prove you've got the right skills in stock using our expedited cover letter examples for warehousing and manufacturing.
Office & Administrative Cover Letter Examples
Any organization without you is like a car with no engine. These example cover letters will help you make it clear to employers you are that missing part.—show them how with a great office & administrative cover letter.
- Administrative
- Administrative Assistant
- Call Center
- Case Manager
- Executive Assistant
- HR Generalist
- Human Resources
- Office Assistant
- Office Manager
- Personal Assistant
- Receptionist
- Social Work
Retail & Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
You promise what you can deliver to your customers — we do the same with our job-winning customer service cover letter templates.
- Customer Service
- Retail Management
- Technical Support
Sales & Marketing Cover Letter Examples
You know sales isn't about manipulating—it's about offering a solution to a problem. Our sample cover letter for sales jobs do just that.
- Account Manager
- Business Development
- Digital Marketing
- Marketing Coordinator
- Marketing Intern
- Marketing Manager
- Sales Associate
- Sales Manager
- Sales Representative
- Store Manager
Other Cover Letter Examples
Need a cover letter sample for different scenarios you find yourself in at this stage of your career? Check out the relevant cover letter templates you need here.
- Career Change
- Cold Call / Unsolicited Cover Letter
- Electrician
- Entry-Level
- for Internal Position
- Killer Cover Letter
- Pain Letter
- Perfect Cover Letter
- Real Estate
- Short Cover Letter Examples
Examples of Cover Letter Templates
Dear Mr. Portis,
When I found the opening for the Account position with Kaiser Permanente, I felt as if it was addressed to me. In my current position as Junior Accountant at the Pasadena Unified School District, I’ve managed a monthly bank reconciliation of over $400,000. I’m sure I can use my expertise at Kaiser Permanente.
In my current position as a Junior Accountant with the Pasadena Unified School District, my key challenge has been planning an annual budget and updating monthly forecasts. Here are some of my recent results:
- SAP implementation including creation of general ledger chart of accounts and data testing.
- Streamlined analysis and reporting processes to support company directives.
- Ensured all departmental invoices were correctly coded and documented for payment within the period. Worked with vendors to ensure all invoices were paid on a timely basis.
I know that Kaiser Permanente’s current plans involve moving to in-house accounting. It would be an exciting opportunity for me to use my skills to develop this project.
Can we schedule a meeting to discuss my solutions for helping Kaiser Permanente have proper in-house accounting?
Dieter Bender
General Cover Letter
A good cover letter is a personalized cover letter. Getting everything right takes time…and you need to submit your application right this second . Use this sample to create unique cover letters fast and easy—no matter if you need two or 20 versions.
Dear Mr. Scotten,
I'm so excited to apply for the IT Project Manager position at Weniger Aerospace.
At A/G Systems, I saved 10 meeting hours a week for 20 engineers. I did it by automating our program requirements management with Oracle Primavera. At $90 an hour, that’s $864,000 saved per year. I'm proud of that—not least because my title wasn't "IT PMP" but "Program Administrator." Transitioning to 100% IT PMP at Weniger would use my IT skills and passion to the full.
I know you're looking for an IT PMP with 5+ years of experience. I've spent 6 years creating robust IT systems with these achievements in the skill areas in your ad:
- Customer Relationship Management. Worked directly with 200+ customers to integrate our software into daily workflows. Slashed complaints by 25%.
- Trained, mentored, and on-boarded 15 new IT hires. Handled all new user training, cutting customer issues 30%. Gave software training to 12 business units nationwide.
- Led project to develop custom ERP software, automating requirements-tracking from 20,000 customers and 150+ programs.
- Wrote test scripts and coordinated testing through cross-functional teams. Expanded custom software to integrate with ERP. Slashed daily disruptions 50%.
I'm very interested in sharing how I can deliver IT PMP excellence at Weniger Aerospace. Can we schedule a call?
Best Regards,
Samantha Sunstein
PS—I'm also happy to explain how I used Oracle Primavera to automate project tracking, eliminating 120+ work-hours per year.
Career Change Cover Letter
Most people don’t do the same job for years, but career changers get the double-take. This sample letter will show you how to prove you have what it takes to start a new career. Convince the employer you’re the perfect candidate with help from this example.
Dear Larissa,
I was so excited when my protein shake packaging design was shortlisted for an Adobe Design Achievement Award.
It was no accident. Design has been a passion of mine since I was ten. I treated the coursework for my B.A. in Design at UMass Boston as a jumping-off point. My classes lit the way, but I dug in deeper with:
- Extensive extra-curricular reading of over 200 books on design, art, and business.
- Conducting a weekly podcast with interviews of 100+ top designers (and 1500+ subscribers).
- Freelance work on nights, weekends, and in the summers designing products for small money but with great return in terms of lesson learned.
When Dr. Stanhope suggested I apply for this internship, his reasoning was flawless. Paralith’s commitment to developing its interns far beyond mere clock-punching speaks directly to my voracious appetite for continued growth.
I would love to put my passion and skill to work for you. Can we schedule a call to discuss winning awards and accolades for Paralith?
Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
Giovanna Darcy
Internship Cover Letter
Landing an internship is tough. Landing a placement that opens you up to great opportunities is even harder. This sample will show you how to make the most of you skills, education, and attitude to win top companies over.
Dear Mr. Bartz,
My name is Jean West, a junior at Greenville High Academy interested in becoming a public administrator in local government. I was thrilled to come across an opening for a Front Desk Clerk with the Greenville City Council. As the High School President and Model UN participant, I am a highly driven high school student who would help Greenville City Council’s administrative challenges.
I know the main duties for this position will be to maintain a professional relationship with visitors and answering multi-line phones and transferring calls to staff members. As the Student Body President, I’ve had to maintain a professional relationship with both students and staff, while being a representative for certain student body issues. We were able to introduce several new amendments to the student handbook and showed care and compassion to all students attending Greenville High Academy.
I am applying to the Greenville City Council specifically as a way to become more involved in local politics and further my professional growth in the field. This is why I’m so excited about this opening. I’d love the opportunity to be involved in local politics in a more fundamental way.
Can we schedule a call next week to discuss this position further?
Student Cover Letter
Your job search is a catch-22: you want to work, but haven’t done enough work to get hired. These cover letter examples will help you escape this vicious circle. Be yourself, we’ll just help you bring out the best in you and give the employers the best candidate: you .
Dear Ms Danz,
It would realize a long-term dream of mine to fill the open digital marketing specialist position here at XYZ Foods. When I first got my job in customer service here, it was because your team member Arnold Dickey advised me to take any job at the company, exceed expectations, build marketing skills, then apply for a transfer to marketing. After just two months I was promoted to senior customer service agent for quick thinking and a strong work ethic. (I saved the company $2,000 a month with one suggestion.)
I read the job posting carefully and spoke with several of your team members. I know the position calls for product knowledge, written and verbal communication, and a strong sense of who our customers are. I believe I’m the perfect fit. I’ve passed quarterly product knowledge quizzes with the highest scores in my department. I’ve used strong communication skills to achieve 95% positive customer survey scores and write up daily error-free reports. My department record of 75+ calls handled per day gives me an excellent understanding of our target demographic.
The most compelling part of this position to me is that it’s the perfect fit. I’ve dreamed of working as a digital marketing specialist at XYZ for the past seven years, taking fifteen online classes from Wharton and doing 20 freelance projects on nights and weekends.
My supervisor here at XYZ customer service is happy to let me meet with you any weekday. Can we set up a time to chat about how I can exceed your expectations as I’ve exceeded hers?
Sincerely, Susan Morris
Internal Position Cover Letter
A new position opened up in your company. You know you’re the best match, but you’re worried you’ll get overlooked. There’s competition, it’s not clear who gets promoted or transitioned. These cover letter samples will show you how to get the credit you’re due.
Dear Frances,
Presently, I’m the retail operations assistant manager for Reston Raiment, but I just today saw your advertisement for a manager at Willis Wearables and I’m excited to put forth my application. I’ve been a semi-frequent customer of WW over the years, and I’ve always adored the quality of your products and the helpfulness of the staff.
During my managerial career, I’ve acquired many skills and much supervisory knowledge. These abilities, coupled with my 5+ years of management experience, make me a strong contender for this position, I believe. On top of those mentioned things, I’m also honored to have achieved some important small successes, including:
- Reduced employee turnover rates by 50% by creating a healthier, more family-like work environment.
- Cut overhead costs by around $3,000 per month by implementing sustainable electronics and devices throughout the store.
- Increased sales by 30% (2018 vs. 2017) in the holiday season by spearheading a new sales and marketing campaign.
These are but a few examples, but I hope they help to show you my management experience, a love for the job, passion, and dedication. I’m eager for the opportunity to bring these characteristics over to a store I’ve always admired.
If you’d give me the chance, I’d love to show you how I can build upon your current success and take Willis Wearables to the next level.
Karen D. Valenzuela
P.S.—What would you say to having a coffee together? I know a great cafe near your store, and I’d be happy for the chance to discuss how I can bring an increase in sales (30%) to WW this upcoming holiday season.
Manager Cover Letter
What makes this sample cover letter great? Quantifies and shows a good fit:
- Uses numbers to prove she’s the best candidate.
- Adds value to her profile by listing key deliverables.
Dear Jacqueline,
As a longtime fan of Acme’s company culture and products, I was excited to see the opening for an administrative assistant. With my lengthy experience as an administrative assistant with Fancy Malls, I know I can use my skill set and knowledge to become a valuable member of the Acme team.
In my current position with Fancy Malls, I’ve had many responsibilities and achievements that would serve me well in a role at Acme. Fancy Malls has a similar business structure and product lineup to those at Acme, so I believe I would make a smooth and quick transition. On top of that, my invoice management and directory maintenance were leading performance boosters for the company, and I’m sure that I could achieve similar results at Acme, such as:
- I saved $3,000 a year in office supplies after negotiating a new deal with the current supplier.
- I increased sales by 7% after implementing an automatic follow-up approach using a CRM program.
Obtaining the administrative assistant position at Acme would be my dream come true. I’ve long been a fan and personal user of several of your products. In fact, Acme’s unique company culture is what prompted me to seek more challenging work. Though I love being in charge of a company’s multifaceted office support, there is no other office that would make me as happy to work for. I know, should I be honored with the position, that I’d be the envy of my circle of friends!
I would eagerly welcome the opportunity to discuss your current administrative objectives and show you how my successes at Fancy Malls can translate into growth for Acme.
P.S. - I’d love the opportunity to sit down with you and go over how I can bring similar results to the 10% cost savings I achieved at Fancy Malls to the Acme office, as well.
Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
What makes this sample cover letter stand out? Shows skills like a Swiss Army knife:
- Shows adaptability and eager to meet any challenge.
- Mirrors the requirements of the job ad with her best abilities.
Perfect Cover Letter Sample
- Make it easy for recruiters to contact you .
- Address a specific person with the right salutation.
- Show your worth and fit with the company .
- Sign off to make recruiters take action .
- Highlight your unique value in the PS.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cover Letter Examples
What is a cover letter.
A cover letter is a document attached to a resume in your application that demonstrates your qualifications, achievements, and motivation to join your potential employer. It complements your resume by providing more details about your professional background so far . Remember that your cover letter design should match your resume . See our professional cover letter templates and resume templates that match perfectly together to help you climb the career ladder. If you opted for a CV instead, do not hesitate to check out our professional CV templates that will also go well with our cover letters. Interested in the topic? Read more about differences between a CV and a resume .
How to write a cover letter for 2023?
A good cover letter should include the following parts:
- cover letter heading ;
- cover letter greeting ;
- first paragraph with a catchy cover letter opening ;
- second paragraph explaining why you are the perfect fit for the company;
- third paragraph with a call to action to make the recruiter realize that they do want to get in touch with you;
- cover letter closing .
There are a few more tricks that you can use in your cover letter to garner additional attention for your candidacy. To find out more, read: what to include in a cover letter .
Do I need a professional template to write my cover letter?
They say you get only one chance to make a first impression, so the answer is yes. Recruiters go through hundreds of applications, so a well-formatted and a professional-looking cover letter will definitely help you stand out from other candidates. See our modern cover letter templates to make sure your cover letter strikes a chord with your recruiter.
Are cover letters really necessary?
Even though it is widely believed that recruiters do not read cover letters, in most cases you do need a cover letter . A well-written cover letter sets the tone for your resume, as it allows you to point out your professional experience and special skills in more detail. It also shows your motivation to take the job. So don’t hesitate to write one, even if it’s not required by the job ad.
How long should a cover letter be?
Your cover letter should ideally be one-page long, and preferably prepared in a professional template that will help you take your cover letter layout to the next level. A good cover letter should include 3–4 short paragraphs and no more than 400 words in total. Remember that recruiters prefer brief and easy-to-read content, so do not overwhelm them with too many irrelevant details. We encourage you to read more on the ideal cover letter length in 2023 .
How to format a cover letter?
When you write a cover letter, remember about the following rules for formatting:
- Set one-inch margins on all sides.
- Left-align all contents. Don’t use justification, it’s against the standard rules of business letter formatting.
- Use business cover letter spacing : 1 or 1.15.
- Put double spaces between paragraphs.
- Use easy-to-read cover letter fonts , such as Arial, Calibri, Verdana, Helvetica, Cambria, or Times New Roman. Keep the font size between 11 and 12 pt.
We also advise you to take a deeper look at how to format your cover letter .
What do you write in a cover letter if you have no experience?
Writing a cover letter when you have little job experience and hard skills may seem like an impossible task, but don’t let that discourage you. Since there are no past jobs you could discuss in your document, try to focus on bringing out the best of your soft skills and show your passion for learning . List all experiences gathered in extracurricular activities, additional courses, or through volunteering . Before you start writing your entry-level cover letter , it is advisable to prepare your resume for your first job .
Should you write a different cover letter for each job application?
You should always customize your cover letter for each company you’re applying to, as it significantly increases your chances of landing a job interview. To make your cover letter job-specific, review the job ad carefully , identify the most important things the company is looking for in the perfect candidate, and use that information to draft a compelling cover letter. Read more on what a cover letter should say and remember that with our cover letter builder your perfect cover letter is just a few clicks away!
Should my cover letter be downloaded in Word or PDF?
As it is recommended to send your resume in a PDF format , your cover letter should come in the same format as well. Thanks to this, your cover letter layout will look good on any device and any operating system that the recruiters might be using. Try Zety cover letter templates to see how quick and easy it might be to come up with a professional-looking PDF cover letter.
Does Zety offer any resume examples that I could look at?
If you don’t know where to start with writing your CV, we suggest that you look at our resume examples . Find an example matching your profession, tailor proposed content to your needs and add it to one of Zety’s resume templates . If you want to get more information about this, read our guide on how to write a resume .Don’t know if you should write a resume or a CV? Read about differences between a CV and a resume
Are Zety cover letter examples available for free?
Yes, you can access cover letter examples for 100+ professions grouped by industry on Zety for free. Now all you have to do is tailor content proposed by Zety to your own needs and use our cover letter builder to create a job-winning cover letter accompanying your perfect resume .
Try Zety's professional cover letter builder now
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Sample Job Application Cover Letter
Last Updated On December 2, 2016 By Letter Writing Leave a Comment
The cover letter for a job application should be impressive to the employer. It gives first hand impression about the candidate. Employer can understand the cultural and educational qualities of the candidate. If it is written in a positive manner, it will surely impress the employer.
Here are useful tips to write a simple cover letter for job application for freshers that can help to get a job easily.
Table of Contents
- 1 Sample Job Application Cover Letter Writing Tips:
- 2 Sample Job Application Cover Letter Template
- 3 Download Template (Doc and PDF)
- 4 Sample Job Application Cover Letter Sample, Email and Example/Format
- 5 Sample Job Application Cover Letter Generator
Sample Job Application Cover Letter Writing Tips:
- As it is a formal letter, the language should be simple, precise and easy to understand.
- The content of the letter should be straightforward and short. But it should contain the necessary information which gives an idea about the candidate.
Sample Job Application Cover Letter Template
__________ (employee’s name)
__________ (employee’s address)
______________ (Your name)
______________ (Your address)
__________________
Date __________ (date of writing letter)
Dear Mr. /Ms____________ (name of the concerned person),
I have seen your advertisement in_____________ (source details) dated________ for the post of ………………(name of post). I have a ………………degree in ……………..(subjects) from the University of …………….(name of varsity) and have …………….years work experience in ………………(name of organization you have been working for).
Apart from academics I am a sports person and I had participated in several athletic competitions. I am sending copies of my certificates for your verification.
If given a chance, I will put in all my efforts and become a positive factor in the success of the company. Your company has good reputation in the industry and I want to be a part of this esteemed organization.
Along with the resume, I am sending all relevant certificates for your perusal.
Looking forward for a positive response from you,
Thanking you,
Yours Sincerely,
_____________ (Your name)
Download Template (Doc and PDF)
Sample Job Application Cover Letter Sample, Email and Example/Format
Bharat Kumar,
Infosys Technologies Ltd.,
28 th September, 2013
Subject: Job application cover letter
Dear Mr.Kumar,
I have seen your advertisement regarding the vacancies for the post of software programmer in your company. As suggested in the advertisement, I am enclosing all necessary documents and certificates for your perusal.
I believe that my educational background and experience in software industry are suitable for the position advertised. I have three years work experience in Infotech Software Ltd. I want to change my job as your company has the reputation of being the top leader in the industry.
Along with academics, I have been a regular sports person as well. I played for my college team in cricket at national level. I am interested in extracurricular activities also. I am attaching copies of all certificates which you can verify.
If given a chance I am confident of delivering my best for the benefit of the company.
___________
Rajeev Malhotra
Email Format
Sample job application cover letter generator.
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Cover letter examples, designed for iphone, iphone screenshots, description.
Are you looking for cover letter templates or simply want to quickly create the best quality cover letter possible? Try this FREE App now ! - Are you looking for cover letter examples or simply want to quickly create the best quality cover letter possible? Whatever the purpose, it must be admitted that: - "cover letter for job application" is a small part of the job application process but extremely important, it is the key to help you become an employee in the company you are applying to work for. - A good "cover letter + resume" will make your chances of getting a job much higher than other candidates. - "resume with cover letter" is always the most effective when applying for a position at any company.To write a cover letter in the proper format, the content must be simple, concise, but still sufficient, and most importantly, "The rate of you being selected to their company is the highest." This is something that not everyone can do. - This cover letter application will help you achieve all of the above goals while saving as much time as possible. - With "Cover Letter", thousands of standard "cover letter templates" for various industries are yours. - "Cover letter samples" are updated regularly, never out of date. - You want the most special cover letter that suits you best without much effort? Try auto-generating cover letters in the app. "Cover Letter App" will help you select and adjust the content as you like. - You can choose a "cover letter example" in the "cover letter examples" store, or press the button to automatically create a cover letter and fill in some necessary information, and then the system will automatically create a cover letter for you according to your requirements. standard format - You can choose as many templates for your cover letter as you like when using this automatic cover letter creation feature. - You can share cover letter easily with PDF format or you can copy & paste the content of cover letter, attach CV to cover letter and send it directly to employer while formatting of letter job application is still preserved - Also read more interesting articles and tips that we have compiled to make your work and life more successful and easier. - Don't forget the Shortcuts, they can help you a lot. - Use the cover letter app and give us suggestions so we can bring the best value to you. Thank you very much.
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Creating a Successful UN Job Application
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Original Source UN Careers Official Site
How do I apply for a job? Creating a Successful UN Job Application
All job openings in the UN Secretariat are published on the United Nations Careers Portal. When you apply for a job, you have to submit an application in the UN online recruitment system called inspira.
T o receive quick updates subscribe to our ; (if you have joined any of our platforms share the links with your networks Join our WhatsApp group (if you have joined one of our WhatsApp groups don’t join) by clicking here https://chat.whatsapp.com/Fh2Izpz8rUXEvPh2iAfA6M . LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/company/united-nations-careers-com/ Website : https://unitednationscareers.com/ Join our Facebook group : https://www.facebook.com/groups/545072486807074 Follow us on twitter : https://twitter.com/unacareers_com J oin our Telegram Group by clicking here : https://t.me/unitednationscareers
Learn about, How to pass the United Nations Competency Based Interview Questions
Completing your Application Creating a Successful UN Job Application
The inspira application is an extended online resume, specifically used by the United Nations, where you articulate your education, competencies, achievements and professional experience. The application is used to evaluate your eligibility and suitability for the job. It is your opportunity to tell your story in a way that demonstrates that you are the best candidate for the job.
If you want to apply for more than one job you can update and change your information in the online recruitment system before submitting a new application.
Check here, IT’S TIME TO DEMYSTIFY THE UNITED NATIONS HIRING PROCESS!
Understanding the job requirements Creating a Successful UN Job Application
- Make sure you find as much information as possible about the job and apply only to vacancies that are suited to your strengths and aspirations.
- Completing the job requirement section is a mandatory step, in your application process. It is your opportunity to highlight your specific experiences, skills, knowledge, and practitioner credentials in relation to the job you are applying for in order to convince the hiring manager that you are a qualified candidate.
- Your job requirements responses should be coherent, consistent, and supported by information provided in your candidate profile. Watch the Job Requirements video on this page to learn more.
Read about, Cover Letter for United Nations Job Vacancy
Preparing the Motivation Statement Creating a Successful UN Job Application
The motivation statement allows you up to 2,000 characters (including spaces) to include information that is not found elsewhere in your application.
You may wish to use the motivation statement to explain why you are applying for this job, in this location, at this moment; how the position aligns with your overall career goals, including a career or location change; how elements of your personal character or experience will support your success in the role; and/or how your competencies, values, and behaviors align with the mandate of the UN and the mandate of the particular UN office you are applying to.
HOW DOES THE UN JOB APPLICATION PROCESS WORK? 7 NEW STEPS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Application Tips: Creating a Successful UN Job Application
Make your words count. Your use of language is extremely important; you need to project yourself efficiently. Address the job’s needs with clearly written, powerful phrases. Provide small, digestible pieces of information. Use action verbs. Avoid passive sentence constructions. Avoid clichés.
Make the Most of Your Experience
We need to know what you have accomplished to have an idea of what you can do for us. Don’t be vague. Especially in your achievements section, focus on what you’ve accomplished and achieved, as opposed to what you do on a daily basis. Be honest. There is a difference between making the most of your experience and exaggerating or falsifying it.
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Target. Target. Target Creating a Successful UN Job Application
Be specific. If you are going after more than one job opening, customize your application accordingly. The system allows you to update it, so you can tailor your application for a specific position. The same applies to your answers to the Job Requirements questions as well as to your motivational statement – customize them for each application. Customizing your application is the easiest way for you to demonstrate that you have clearly read and understood the job opening.
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Duties to Include in Your Employment Details Creating a Successful UN Job Application
Duties describe the specific responsibilities of your job. They accurately reflect what you are doing or have done in each of your previous jobs. In other words, it is the “what you do” of your job, including detail of your supervisory/managerial responsibilities, if any. You may include achievements as well to describe in specific terms “how well” you did in your job. Number of characters is limited to 1,000 including spaces for the duties of each of your jobs.
Read More: https://careers.un.org/lbw/home.aspx?viewtype=CYJA
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Cover letters are commonly used when applying for jobs, but they may not always be necessary. Some employers may not want to review many cover letters or might want to test how people follow instructions by saying not to include one. If you're applying for jobs, you may not be sure when a cover letter is necessary.
Cover letters can be an important part of a job application as they highlight your qualifications and give employers context about your background, personality and capabilities. Each job has its own set of requirements for applications, so you might wonder if a cover letter is really necessary when applying for a job.
A cover letter is not always necessary for an online application, but it can be a good way to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and provide additional information that's not included in your resume. If the job posting specifically asks for a cover letter, then it's definitely necessary to include one.
Cover letter allows you to showcase your skills required for the job, be more specific why your candidature should be considered 2. You don't have a standard JD for a role so you have to...
When the employer specifically states what they want in a job application (resume, references, etc.), you don't have to write a cover letter if it is not included on the employer's list. However, you may want to include an abbreviated email cover letter if there's space to do so.
For some jobs, you won't need a cover letter to apply. Some employers don't accept cover letters as part of the application process. For other positions, there may be no way to submit one. If a cover letter is optional, it's better to skip it if you don't have the time to compose a well-written one. When the Employer Doesn't Want One
The cover letter is a contender for job seekers' most hated part of the job search. Personally, when browsing job boards, I've always gravitated toward the postings that said "cover letter optional" or didn't mention one at all—and I'm a writer.When you're deep in a job hunt—particularly one where you feel like you're throwing applications into a black hole—cover letters ...
For jobs with a direct application process (for instance through an email), a cover letter is required 64% of the time. For vacancies advertised via automated online tools (e.g. job boards such as Indeed, or internal career sites), 61% recruiters require cover letters. Should you send a cover letter if it's optional?
A cover letter also allows you to emphasize your relevant skills and achievements. A cover letter is necessary for your job application because it gives the employer or hiring manager a more rounded description of your personality. It offers you the opportunity to explain why you're an ideal candidate for the role.
Yes, an entry-level cover letter is a must. You might not have many professional or relevant experiences to list on your resume (e.g. you're a recent college graduate or you're changing career paths), so the cover letter is where you can convey your enthusiasm and commitment.
Including a cover letter in your job application is essential in a variety of situations. For example, you should always write a cover letter if: The job advertisement requests that you submit a cover letter Someone at the company suggested you include them in your cover letter as a referral The job you're applying for requires writing skills
Do you need a cover letter? A cover letter is important and required if the job offer requires a cover letter, the employer, hiring manager, or recruiter requests one, you're applying directly to a person and know their name, or someone has referred you for the position.
Cover letters are typically categorized according to two purposes: applying for a specific, advertised opening ('letter of application') expressing interest in an organization when the job seeker is uncertain whether there are current openings ('letter of inquiry'). [3] According to studies, a good cover letter should: be specific and up-to-date,
Be positive and enthusiastic. Give your cover letter for a job a positive, enthusiastic tone. Use future tense to show how you will use your skills and experience to benefit the company you're applying to and show how keen you are to take on a new role and new challenges. If you are lacking experience in some areas, don't highlight it.
A cover letter is a document you submit with your resume when applying for a job. The purpose of the cover letter is to introduce yourself professionally to the recruiter or employer. It comprises a summary of your professional qualifications, achievements, and other personal qualities that qualify you for the role.
A good cover letter should include 3-4 short paragraphs and no more than 400 words in total. Remember that recruiters prefer brief and easy-to-read content, so do not overwhelm them with too many irrelevant details. We encourage you to read more on the ideal cover letter length in 2023. See more.
Hyderabad. 28 th September, 2013. Subject: Job application cover letter. Dear Mr.Kumar, I have seen your advertisement regarding the vacancies for the post of software programmer in your company. As suggested in the advertisement, I am enclosing all necessary documents and certificates for your perusal.
Download your cover letter. Easily download your cover letter and edit afterwards. Excellent platform with everything you need as a jobseeker. Intuitive tool that guides you through the process of creating a CV with customisable sections. A comprehensive platform with resources and tools for producing high-quality CVs and cover letters.
- "cover letter for job application" is a small part of the job application process but extremely important, it is the key to help you become an employee in the company you are applying to work for. ... or press the button to automatically create a cover letter and fill in some necessary information, and then the system will automatically ...
Your job requirements responses should be coherent, consistent, and supported by information provided in your candidate profile. Watch the Job Requirements video on this page to learn more. Read about, Cover Letter for United Nations Job Vacancy. Preparing the Motivation Statement Creating a Successful UN Job Application