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Manager Cover Letter Examples For 2024 (20+ Skills & Templates)

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Are you looking to land more Manager job offers?

You're going to need a strong cover letter. This comprehensive guide is packed with everything you need to know in order to write a job-winning Manager cover letter. It's got everything from effective strategies and essential skills to helpful templates and real-life examples.

You can trust that all the insights and tips in this guide are based on data from coaching thousands of job seekers, just like you, who have gone on to secure positions at some of the world's most reputable companies.

Whether you're an experienced manager or just starting out, reading this guide from start to finish can help you land your dream role. But if you're short on time and looking for specific information, here's a breakdown of what's included:

• What To Know About Writing A Job-Winning Manager Cover Letter
• The Best Skills To Include On An Manager Cover Letter

How To Address A Manager Cover Letter

• 3 Manager Cover Letter Examples

The 8 Best Manager Cover Letter Templates

3 tips for writing a job-winning manager cover letter.

Here's the step-by-step breakdown:

Manager Cover Letter Overview: What To Know To Write A Cover Letter That Wins More Job Offers

What do companies look for when hiring for a manager role?

When hiring for a manager role, companies look for candidates with a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and interpersonal abilities. Effective communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and organizational skills are also essential for success in a managerial position.

Managers should also possess technical knowledge that's relevant to the industry, and have strong interpersonal skills that are necessary for building strong relationships and working effectively with others.

Typically, organizations also look for candidates with prior management experience, as it demonstrates a track record of success in a leadership role. However, this isn't a requirement. Overall, companies seek candidates who can lead their team to achieve organizational goals, communicate effectively, and make timely and effective decisions.

Your resume should show your potential employer that both your personality and your experience encompass all of these things.

Additionally, there are a few best practices you want to follow to write a job-winning manager resume:

• Highlight your leadership and management skills.  Include examples of how you have motivated and led teams to achieve organizational goals.
• Emphasize your communication and interpersonal skills. Provide examples of how you have effectively communicated with team members, stakeholders, and clients.
• Include keywords from the job description:  ensure your resume is optimized for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• Highlight your problem-solving and decision-making skills.  Provide examples of how you have addressed complex issues and made effective decisions.
• Include any relevant certifications, awards or professional development courses.  Demonstrate your expertise in your industry or field.
• Quantify your work:  Use numbers to showcase the impact of your leadership on your team's performance. Some examples include improvements in employee productivity, increased team morale,  and boosts in overall team performance.
• Proofread:  Carefully proofread your resume for errors and typos, as these can give a negative impression to potential employers (I recommend using the  Hemingway App ).

Let's dive deeper into each of these so you have the exact blueprint you need to see success.

The Best Manager Skills To Include On Your Cover Letter

Keywords are one of the most important factors in your cover letter. They show employers that your skills align with the role and they also help format your cover letter for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

If you're not familiar with ATS systems, they are pieces of software used by employers to manage job applications. They scan cover letters for keywords and qualifications and make it easier for the employers to filter and search for candidates whose qualifications match the role.

If you want to win more Manager interviews and job offers, you need to have a keyword-optimized cover letter. There are two ways to find the right keywords:

1. Leverage The 20 Best Manager Keywords

The first way to find the right keywords is to leverage our list of the best keywords and skills for an Manager cover letter.

These keywords were selected from an analysis of  real Manager  job descriptions sourced from actual job boards. Here they are:

• Communication
• Team Member
• Performance
• Development
• Consistency
• Interpersonal Skills
• Accountable
• Organization

2. Use ResyMatch.io To Find The Best Keywords That Are Specific To Your Cover Letter And Target Role

The second method is the one I recommend because it's personalized to your specific cover letter and target job.

This process lets you find the exact keywords that your cover letter is missing when compared to the individual role you're applying for.

Here's how it works:

• Open a copy of your target Manager job description
• Head over to  ResyMatch.io
• Select the “Job Description Scan” from the scan type selector in the upper right corner of the tool
• Copy and paste the Manager job description into the field on the left
• Hit scan and review the results

ResyMatch is going to scan the target job description and show you the exact keywords and skills that are relevant for the role and that you should weave into your cover letter.

Here's a video walking through this whole process:

Adding a personal touch is what makes a cover letter stand out, and that starts from the very first sentence! You should always greet the person reading your cover letter and there are two ways to do this well:

1. Use The Hiring Manager's Name

The first, and best, is by including the hiring manager's name. Let's say that you discovered the hiring manager's name from a post on LinkedIn or via an informational interview.

This is the jackpot! All you need to do is use their name in the introduction, like this:

2. Use This Formula: To The [Department] Team at [Organization]

If you don't have the hiring manager's name, no problem! You can address your cover letter to the team that you're applying to.

For example, if you're applying to for a Product Marketing Manager role at Discovery Education, you might start you cover letter like this:

This shows the reader that this letter has been written specifically for them and the content inside of it will support that.

It's much more relevant and personal than  “To Whom It May Concern!”

For more advice on writing a strong opening to your cover letter, check out this guide.

3 Manager Cover Letter Examples For 2023

Now let's take a look at all of these best practices in action. Here are three cover letter examples for different situations from people with different backgrounds that are all applying for Manager roles:

Manager Cover Letter Example #1: A Traditional Background

Our first example is a cover letter written by a candidate with traditional Manager experience. Here is what an example of their cover letter might look like:

Manager Cover Letter Example #2: A Non-Traditional Background

Our second cover letter example comes from a candidate looking to make the leap from an individual contributor role to a management position. While this person doesn't have traditional management experience, they do a good job of speaking to their relevant leadership skills and how they can transfer to this new role.

Manager Cover Letter Example #3: Landing a Senior Management Role After a Career Gap

Our third example highlights a candidate with extensive management experience who has been freelance consulting during a career break. Addressing a gap in your employment history can feel tricky, but this person does a good job of demonstrating their value as a leader and what they can bring to this new role.

At this point, you know all of the basics you'll need to write a Manager cover letter that wins you more interviews and offers. The only thing left is to take all of that information and apply it to a template that's going to help you get results.

We made that easy with  our CoverBuild tool . It has 8 proven templates that were created with the help of recruiters and hiring managers at the world's best companies. These templates also bake in thousands of data points we have from the job seekers in our audience who have used them to land job offers.

You're off to a strong start! But I've got a few more tips to help you take your cover letter to the next level:

1. Use ChatGPT To Write Your Cover Letter In <30 Seconds

All of these tips and best practices work, but you still have to implement them. Normally, that'd mean you sitting down and spending hours brainstorming ideas, typing, deleting, and typing again, and then feeling absolutely drained.

Now there's a way to work around all of that so you save your best energy for the writing and edits that matter most. Here's how it works:

• Head to ChatGPT (you'll need to create an account – it's free)
• Ask ChatGPT,  “Please write me a cover letter for an Manager role. The role I'm applying for is [Job Title] role at [Company]. Here is the job description: [Paste Job Description]. And here is my resume: [Paste Resume].
• Watch ChatGPT write up a pretty darn good cover letter base!

Here's a video of me doing this with a real cover letter if you want to see the steps in action:

Note:  I  do not recommend or advise that you simply copy and paste the content from ChatGPT into your cover letter and submit your application. ChatGPT is great for doing 80% of the baseline work, but you still need to review, revise, and personalize the content yourself.

2. Include Measurable Metrics And Outcomes

Too many job seekers only focus on the actions that they took and not the outcomes that resulted from those actions. As a campus principal, it's impossible to differentiate between a dozen candidates who were all “Responsible For Creating a Safe Learning Environment.” 

If you want to win, your cover letter should speak to the specific outcomes that you drove in previous roles. That could be:

• The percentage by which your team increased revenue under your leadership.
• The average reduction in overall expenditures.
• The average employee satisfaction rate.
• The rate at which your employee retention increased from year to year.

These numbers will show hiring teams what you're capable of and make your value crystal clear!

3. Match Your Cover Letter And Resume Design

They're the exact same car, down to the year, make, and model. The only difference is the way the product was presented. Like I said, quality impacts perceived value.

One of the best ways to boost the quality of your cover letter is to make it look clean, professional, and have it match your resume. That's why the resume templates in our resume builder tool match the cover letter templates in our cover letter builder:

If you use both tools to create your cover letter and your resume, your entire application is going to be top notch.

Key Takeaways To Wrap Up Your Job-Winning Cover Letter

You made it! We packed a lot of information into this post so I wanted to distill the key points for you and lay out next steps so you know exactly where to from here.

Here are the 5 steps for writing a job-winning Manager cover letter:

• Start with a proven cover letter template from CoverBuild.io
• Use  ResyMatch.io to find the right keywords and optimize your cover letter for each Manager role you apply to
• Start your manager cover letter with a personalized greeting for the hiring manager or Human Resources representative.
• Emphasize the measurable outcomes and value you drove in previous roles (include metrics!)
• Compare the draft of your manager cover letter to the examples on this page to make sure you're on the right path
• Use a tool like  Hemingway App to proofread your cover letter before you submit it

If you follow those steps, you're going to be well on your way to landing more Manager interviews and job offers.

Laura Lorta

Laura is an Editor at Cultivated Culture. She transitioned from teaching into the world of content so she's no stranger to career pivots. She also has a bachelors in Entrepreneurship and a Masters in Curriculum & Instruction / Bilingual Education. She currently shares job search advice to help people like you land jobs they love without applying online.

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Management Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Writing a standout management cover letter can often seem like untangling a knotted string. But fear not, we've got the hard part done for you. 

Packed with useful tips, relevant examples, and trusty templates, this guide is your key to crafting a cover letter that will set you apart in the crowded management field.

Brace yourself for the following insights:

• Mastering a business-like format for your management cover letter
• Creating an impactful header that sticks
• Writing a compelling headline for your cover letter
• Personalizing the greeting in your management cover letter
• Crafting a strong introduction for your management cover letter
• Showcasing your managerial skills and achievements effectively
• Penning a compelling conclusion to your cover letter
• Avoiding common mistakes in your management cover letter
• Understanding the average salary and job outlook for management roles
• Discovering valuable resources for managers in today's job market

1. How to properly format your management cover letter

Formatting your management cover letter is quite like orchestrating a smooth, efficient process flow. It demands an attention to detail, ensuring every element contributes to clarity and ease of reading. 

Here are our tips to help you construct a seamless reading experience:

• Leave white space: Like a good product design, an aesthetically pleasing cover letter doesn't suffocate its reader. Leave plenty of white space around the text.
• Choose the right font: Stick to professional, easy-to-read fonts. Sans Serifs like Arial or Calibri in a 10-12 point size work like a charm. They are modern, readable, and approved by most hiring managers.
• Organize into sections: Break up your text into clear sections. These may include contact information, introduction, body (your skills, experience and reasons for applying), and conclusion.
• Uniform margins: Keep your margins between 1 and 1.5 inches. This creates a clean look and helps your content breathe.
• Consistent headings: Make sure your headings are easily distinguishable and consistent throughout your cover letter. They can guide your reader through your story like a well-placed sign post.
• Use bullet points wisely: Bullet points can help you neatly highlight your skills, achievements, or key points in a readable manner. But, remember, they're impactful in moderation — overuse can lead to bullet fatigue.
• Emphasize key points: Use bold or italics to highlight key details such as job titles, keywords or impressive achievements. But again, a little goes a long way — stick to highlighting only what you really want the recruiter to notice.
• Professional tone: Lastly, while we advocate for simplicity and human language, maintaining a balance with a professional tone is crucial. Your cover letter is, after all, a business document.

Remember, the goal is to guide your reader through your experiences and skills without getting them lost in a jungle of text. And now, use these formatting tips to clear the path.

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2. how to write an effective cover letter header.

The header of your cover letter is essentially its opening credits. It covers key information that helps set the stage.

Your cover letter header should typically include your contact information, followed by the date, and then the recipient's information. This information landscape should be as follows:

• Your full name
• Postal address
• Email address
• Phone number
• Recipient's full name
• Recipient's job title
• Company name
• Company address

Now, let's look at two contrasting examples:

Incorrect cover letter header example

John Doe 123 Somewhere St. [email protected] (123) 456-7890

April 20, 2023

Why is it weak? The example above doesn't convey enough information. While it includes John's contact information and the date, it's missing crucial components like the recipient's name and title, company name, and company address.

Correct cover letter header example

John Doe 123 Somewhere St. City, State, ZIP [email protected] (123) 456-7890

To: Ms. Jane Manager Director of Human Resources XYZ Corporation 789 Corporate Lane City, State, ZIP

Why does it work? In this example, John not only provides his contact information but also acknowledges his reader directly by including the recipient's name, job title, company name, and company address. This makes all the difference! He’s basically showing that he’s made an effort to address his cover letter to a specific person.

In formatting your management cover letter header, attention to detail matters. Make it informative, yet simple and respectful; after all, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

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3. How to craft a compelling cover letter headline

Just like a billboard on the highway, the headline of your cover letter should grab attention . It unveils just enough about your intentions to pique the reader's curiosity and make them want to delve deeper.

To write a strong headline, you'll need to fuse your career goal with the specific position you're applying for. It gives the reader instant context and communicates your career narrative in a snap.

Weak cover letter headline example

Applying for Management Position

Why is it weak? While this headline does lay out that you're seeking a management role, it lacks specificity. It doesn't mention any unique selling points about you or even the exact role or company you're applying to.

Strong cover letter headline example

Results-Driven Project Manager Eager to Boost Productivity and Profitability at XYZ Corporation

What makes it effective? It goes beyond stating your role and clear intent. It emphasizes your goal-oriented approach by labeling you as 'results-driven' and outlines what you aim to contribute — enhancing 'productivity and profitability'. This way, the headline neatly packs your promise to deliver real results.

Keep in mind, your headline is like the sneak peek of your professional strengths. Make it attractive, succinct, and let it echo what you bring to the table.

4. How to customize the greeting on your management cover letter

Ever been at a social event where someone greeted you by the wrong name? Awkward, right? In a similar vein, addressing your cover letter correctly is pivotal. 

It helps establish a connection with the recruiter and shows that you've put in effort beyond the generic 'Dear Hiring Manager'.

Personalizing your greeting shows you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in the role. It sets a positive tone for the rest of your letter. 

But what if the job listing doesn't mention a specific person? In that case, you can try:

• Looking for the hiring manager's name on the company website
• LinkedIn stalking their HR team
• A quick call to the company to ask

So what does a well-addressed greeting look like?

Personalized greeting examples

Dear Ms. Jackson, Dear Ms. Julie Jackson, Dear Hiring Manager Julie Jackson,

Unable to find the name of the hiring manager despite your best efforts? Lean towards general yet still respectful greetings.

General greeting examples

Dear Hiring Team, — It’s more inclusive and acknowledges that more than one person might be reading your cover letter. Dear [Company Name] Team, — It shows that you've taken the trouble to at least address the company directly.

Go that extra mile to discover the hiring manager's name for your personalized greeting. If that road hits a dead end, settle for an alternative that is courteous and professional, steering clear of the outdated "To whom it may concern."

Creating the impression that the letter is tailored just for them can really tip the scales in your favor.

5. How to craft a compelling introduction for your cover letter

Jumpstarting your cover letter with an engaging intro is like an impressive opening scene in a blockbuster film — it sets the tone and makes people want to stick around for more. 

An effective introduction should:

• Serve as a snapshot of your professional and academic journey
• Offer a clear statement of intent about why you’re applying
• If applicable, mention any shared connections

Let's look at a weak example first

I am writing to apply for the management position at your company.

What makes it weak? Sure, it states the purpose but it only states the obvious without adding any personal value or context. It lacks personal touch, fails to evoke interest, and offers no insight into why you would be a valuable addition to their team.

Now, let's shift gears to how an experienced management professional might make an entrance:

Strong cover letter introduction example for an experienced candidate

As an accomplished Project Manager who has successfully spearheaded operations for Fortune 500 companies, I am excited to apply my 15 years of experience towards driving success at ABC Company. Our mutual acquaintance, John Smith, spoke highly of your team and felt that my expertise would align well with your goals.

Why does it shine? This introduction stands strong with a summary of significant career achievements, a clear interest in the company, and a beneficial name-dropping moment.

But what if you've just tossed your graduation cap in the air and your work history is a bit on the lighter side? No stress. You can still showcase your freshly minted education , internship insights , and passion for the field in the intro. Let's see how you can do this:

As a recent business graduate from XYZ University, armed with a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on internships and a strong interest in operational management, I'm excited about the opportunity to bring fresh, strategic insights to the management role at ABC Company.

Why does it work? Though this candidate might be low on professional experience, the introduction still shines. It highlights academic achievements, valuable internships, and a keen interest in management.

Remember, your introduction is your first impression. Make sure it's not only correct but compelling enough to make the reader want to continue. In other words, make them want to watch the whole movie, not just the trailer!

6. How to highlight your top skills and accomplishments

Coming to the main show — the body of your cover letter. This is the segment where you showcase your unique infusion of skills , and achievements . So, let's break it down.

Start by briefly highlighting your most relevant experiences and roles . Next, shift the spotlight to your wins, quantifiable achievements , and what sets you apart. If you saved your company money, increased sales, or implemented an effective strategy — this is your stage! 

When it comes to marking your managerial skills, here are some that should definitely get a mention:

Managerial skills to mention in your cover letter

• Strategic planning
• Decision-making
• Problem-solving 
• Customer relationship management
• Project management
• Staff development and coaching

But what if you're fresh in the field? If you're a recent graduate or changing careers, focus on transferable skills or relevant internships . Draw attention to academic projects or team activities where you showcased management abilities. 

Pro tip: Examples like leading a substantial college project, managing a club, or orchestrating a successful event are all gold nuggets that reflect budding management potential. Remember, management is not just about office work — there are other arenas where you've harnessed these skills.

Cover letter body example for an experienced project manager

In my recent role as Project Manager at DEF Company, I led a team of 15 to deliver a critical project which expedited the go-to-market time by 25%. I was also commended for my strategic thinking in optimizing resource allocation across multiple projects, saving 20% in operational costs.

Why is it strong? This example shines as it not only lays out the candidate’s role but also quantifies their achievements, underscoring their value with hard numbers. They also mention their strategic thinking and resource optimization — critical skills for a management role. 

Cover letter body example for a fresh graduate

During my final year at GHI University, I spearheaded a team project which involved strategic planning, delegation, and effective time management. We not only completed the project ahead of schedule but also received the top grade in the class.

Why does it work? Even without years of work experience to highlight, this introduction still packs a punch. The success of leading a significant team project at university stands as a testament to solid management potential. This opening is a nod to the fact that career-worthy experiences come from many different places and stages of life.

The bottom line: no matter where you stand in your career, a well-crafted cover letter body can communicate your value proposition in a meaningful and impactful way.

7. How to end your management cover letter

Picture your cover letter like a well-conducted meeting. The closure matters just as much as the kick-off. It's the part that rounds everything up, re-emphasizes the crucial points, and tees up what's coming next. 

Make sure your cover letter conclusion does the same — wrap up your narrative neatly, cement your intentions, and clearly signpost your next move.

Your conclusion should:

• Show your enthusiasm for the prospective role
• Hint at your intended next steps (for example, mentioning when you plan to follow up)
• Include a professional wrap-up note (This could be a thank-you to your reader for considering your application, or expressing eagerness to discuss your credentials further.)
• Have a formal sign-off

Weak cover letter conclusion example

Thank you for considering my application. 

Sincerely,  John Doe

Why is it weak? While technically correct, John's wrap up is passive and lacks the forward momentum necessary in a cover letter.

Strong cover letter conclusion example

I am excited about the prospect of joining the ABC team and contributing to your ongoing growth strategies.You may reach me at (123) 456-7890 or via email at [email protected]. If I have not heard from you by next week, I’ll follow up to ensure you have all the information you need. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my suitability for the position.

Sincerely, 

Why does it work? This conclusion is powerful for a few reasons. John reiterates his interest in the position, sets a clear follow-up timeline, and rounds off with a polite sign-off. His closing statement leaves a strong last impression, much like a firm, confident handshake.

Just like a successful project that ends on a high note, make sure each word in your conclusion delivers, and cap it off as strongly as you started.

8. How to avoid common mistakes in a management cover letter 

Crafting an effective management cover letter isn't an art form preserved for the chosen few. It's the product of careful preparation, attention to detail, and avoidance of classic pitfalls. Let's glance through some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Being vague about your skills: Simply stating that you have "strong leadership skills" can read like fluff. Instead, give concrete examples of how you've demonstrated these skills. 

• Wrong: I have strong leadership skills.
• Right: I led a team of 10 to execute a project, resulting in an increase in customer satisfaction by 30%.

2. Skipping the company research: Tailoring your cover letter to the specific company shows genuine interest. By skipping this step, you risk coming off as generic or disinterested. 

• Wrong: I would love to work for your prestigious company.
• Right: I am keen to contribute to XYZ's pioneering efforts in sustainability.

3. Overloading information: A common mistake is turning your cover letter into a marathon of information. Keep it concise and relevant.

• Wrong: Including a complete autobiography.
• Right: Providing a snapshot of your skills, experiences, and why you’re a good fit.

4. Overemphasis on education (especially if you’re not a fresh grad): Once you've attained some professional work experience, that should be the star of your show. 

• Wrong: Giving a detailed account of all academic achievements.
• Right: Highlighting applicable work experience and key achievements, with a brief mention of important academic credentials.

5. Neglecting proofreading: Spelling or grammatical errors can present an image of carelessness. Double-checking your cover letter can save you from a quick rejection. 

• Wrong: I'm detail-orinted.
• Right: I'm detail-oriented.

6. Repeating your resume: One common trap people fall into is treating their cover letter like a second resume . This is a missed opportunity. Your cover letter is a narrative to delve deeper into your achievements, personal attributes, and explain why you're a fit.

• Wrong: Listing duties from previous roles identical to resume.
• Right: Expanding on key accomplishments, providing context, or highlighting a notable project from one of your previous roles that aligns with the applied position.

Remember, your management cover letter should be a strategic narrative that encapsulates your career highlights and what you bring to the table. Make sure it's concise, specific, company-oriented, and error-free, and you'll be one step ahead of your competition.

9. Average salary and outlook for management professionals

The ever-evolving field of management continues to present promising prospects. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , as of May 2022, management professionals were earning an attractive average annual salary of $107,360 .

Not only is the remuneration encouraging, but employment in management occupations also shows a stronger-than-average growth projection. From 2022 to 2032, the sector is expected to grow more rapidly than the average for all occupations.

Throwing light on the future, an estimated 1.1 million openings are projected each year on average.

So, it's clear as day — the managerial world is brimming with exciting prospects, hearty salaries, and a bright horizon. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, it's a field well worth considering. 

10. Management resources for job seekers

No man, or woman, is an island. The same goes for job hunting, especially in the management sphere. Harnessing various resources can not only help you to locate job opportunities, but it also aids in polishing your professional skills. 

Here are a few avenues you can explore:

• Networking: Conversations can lead to opportunities. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn or attend industry events. You never know who may stumble upon your well-crafted management cover letter.
• Industry publications: Keeping up-to-date with prominent industry news and trends via management-specific publications such as The Harvard Business Review or Forbes is invaluable. 
• Job search engines: Websites like Indeed , Glassdoor , or Monster that offer a wide array of job listings are an excellent start point for your strategic job search.
• Career services: Universities often provide extensive career services, including job boards, resume reviews, and career counseling. Take full advantage of these services to refine your cover letter.
• Online courses & certifications: Sites like Coursera , Udemy , or even LinkedIn Learning have a wide selection of courses to sharpen your management skills. 
• Mentorship platforms: Websites like MicroMentor and Ten Thousand Coffees connect you with experienced professionals and industry leaders willing to mentor job seekers. A mentor's guidance can be invaluable to formulating your job search strategy and enhancing your management skill set.

Remember, every job hunt is unique, just like every cover letter should be. So keep an open mind, use the variety of resources available, and stay persistent. 

Your management career journey is a marathon, not a sprint — pace yourself, keep going, and remember the role of a stellar cover letter along the way.

Management Cover Letter FAQ

While it might seem like a time-saver, using a generic cover letter is not recommended. Each job and company are unique, so your cover letter should be tailored to reflect that. Highlight specific skills and experiences that correspond with the particular job description.

In most cases, a one-page cover letter is sufficient. Remember, it’s about quality, not quantity. You want to keep it concise, while still adequately highlighting your pertinent skills and experiences.

Absolutely. While hard skills are important, soft skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving are highly valued in management roles. Just make sure to back them up with specific examples.

If the gap is significant, it can be helpful to address it in your cover letter. This is your chance to explain why there was a gap and what you did during that time that may have contributed to your personal and professional development.

Focus on transferable skills and experiences that might be valuable in a management context. For example, if you’re shifting from teaching to management, highlight your leadership, organizational, and communication skills gained from teaching that can be beneficial in a management role.

Nikoleta Kuhejda

A journalist by trade, a writer by fate. Nikoleta went from writing for media outlets to exploring the world of content creation with Kickresume and helping people get closer to the job of their dreams. Her insights and career guides have been published by The Female Lead , College Recruiter , and ISIC, among others. When she’s not writing or (enthusiastically) pestering people with questions, you can find her traveling or sipping on a cup of coffee.

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• Risk Manager
• Strategic Manager

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3 Manager Cover Letter Examples to Get the Job in 2024

• Manager Cover Letter
• Case Manager Cover Letter
• General Manager Cover Letter
• Write Your Manager Cover Letter

You’re an expert leader who knows how to get the job done right. Employee training is provided, schedules are created, and processes are improved when you’re leading teams. 

But can you write a cover letter to showcase your leadership abilities effectively? And will it adequately complement your manager resume ?

With the many qualifications needed to break into a management position, it’s crucial that you impress by making a connection with the company in your cover letter. You can use our manager cover letter examples and free AI cover letter generator as effective templates for success.

Manager Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your manager cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Houston, TX 77001 (123) 456-7890

August 20, 2023

Ethan Smith Shell Oil Company 123 Fictional Lane Houston, TX 77001

Dear Ms. Marque:

As a seasoned professional seeking to bring grit and direction to every facet of management, I admire Shell Oil Company’s commitment to energy innovation and environmental sustainability. The values your company and I share, like strategic growth, ethical leadership, and continuous improvement, if merged can make a significant impact. My objective as a manager at Shell Oil Company is to foster smooth operations, steer strategic initiatives, and adeptly navigate change.

During a stint at Zachry Group, I managed high-risk operations, reducing safety incidents by 46% with proactive risk mitigation strategies. This role tasked me with overseeing a team of 32 staff members, elucidating my capability of managing my responsibilities successfully, even under pressure.

My strategic planning prowess helped increase energy efficiency by an impressive 31% at ExxonMobil. I led my team in designing and implementing a company-wide plan that significantly optimized energy usage, aligning with the broader sustainability goals of Houston and exhibiting my ability to orchestrate transformative business strategies.

In my current role as operations manager at Galaxy Petroleum, I championed a comprehensive change management initiative that integrated advanced automation systems, improving operational efficiency by 38%. That illustrates my ability to lead considerable strategic changes, engaging multiple stakeholders to foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

With immense admiration for the relentless innovation and sustainable development initiatives at Shell Oil, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity of contributing towards actualizing these aspirations in a managerial capacity. Please do not hesitate to contact me for more details on how my professional background can bring value to your team.

Liam Murphy

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Professional Development Certificates

Why this cover letter works

• Include relevant management and leadership qualifications, experience, and quantified accomplishments to hint at your high odds of success and elevate your chances of getting hired.

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifiting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Case Manager Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your case manager cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Fresno, CA 93650 (123) 456-7890

Emma Johnson Valley Children’s Healthcare 123 Fictional Lane Fresno, CA 93650

Dear Ms. Johnson,

The pivotal role case management at Valley Children’s Healthcare plays in ensuring quality patient care resonates with my career aspiration of providing impactful contributions in a healthcare setting. An opportunity at your esteemed organization as a case manager would be ideal for harnessing my professional background enriched by experience in crisis intervention and quality assurance.

My responsibilities at the Community Regional Medical Center emphasized an emergent focus on efficiency and thoroughness. Expertly navigating insurance complexities and perfecting records led to a 23.8% reduction in patient waiting times, improving patient satisfaction.

At Turning Point of Central California, my deft handling of sensitive situations led to an 18% acceleration in crisis resolution, providing swift relief for affected individuals. Another of my proudest achievements was guiding over 300 families through insurance options and coverage benefits, significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

Given the commitment of Valley Children’s Healthcare to offer comprehensive pediatric services covering myriad specialties, it would be an honor to join your distinguished team and significantly impact the lives of young souls under your care. Thank you for your time. I look forward to discussing how my expertise would add value to your establishment.

Olivia Brown

• But again, showcase your ability to sustain the well-being of patients, from identifying and advocating for their needs and coordinating necessary services to monitoring their progress. Specify tasks and wins unique to your professional experience, incorporating real numbers where necessary.

General Manager Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your general manager cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Baltimore, MD 21201 (123) 456-7890

Ava Davis Legg Mason 123 Fictional Lane Baltimore, MD 21201

Dear Ms. Davis,

I’m excited about the opportunity to merge my financial acumen, managerial experience, and deep industry understanding to create value as your next general manager at Legg Mason. Drawing upon my childhood experiences, I’ve developed a deep appreciation and respect for prudent financial management, seeing firsthand its significant impact on households and communities.

At Horizon Services, my focus on procedural optimization led to a 7% cost reduction in operations. As an operations manager at Aerotek, I revolutionized processes by identifying the inherent strengths and weaknesses within the organization. Operational hiccups dipped by a remarkable 43% in just 2 years and led to a 12% reduction in overhead costs.

At Baltimore Capital Management, I identified, assessed and managed risks. My analytical approach helped the company save 37% in potential losses—a testament to the superiority of preemptive measures over reactive solutions. My nuanced grasp of financial analysis helped Truist realize an increase of 11.3% in return on investment (ROI) for client portfolios within six months, outperforming the industry standards at that time.

My leadership skills matched with a consistent track record positions me as a valuable asset to Legg Mason. I look forward to further discussing how my background and skills would be of benefit to your team and the continued growth of your company.

Bastien Girard

• Proven organizational leadership is critical for this role. So, make your general manager cover letter speak to your ability to lead teams, streamline processes, and propel company growth. Drive attention to your victories with numbers.

Related cover letter examples

• Project Manager
• Program Manager
• Operations Manager
• Product Manager
• Social Media Manager

Strategies to Write an Impactful Manager Cover Letter

When applying to a management position, one of the first considerations you need to make is the company’s core needs and what processes you’ll be performing. 

For example, applying to a recruiting management position would require some different skills than an HR manager. The recruiting professional may focus on outreach and networking, whereas the HR manager may focus more on daily performance management and problem-solving. Therefore, create a tailored cover letter each time to ensure you stand out.

Make an impact with the greeting and intro of your manager cover letter

You understand the importance of personability in management, where employee and customer relations are fundamental skill sets . 

The same is true for your manager cover letter, so starting with a personalized greeting addressed to a specific hiring manager is an excellent idea. Otherwise, simply leading with “Dear [company name] hiring staff” works well, too, if you can’t find a specific person’s name. 

Then, you want to make an impact and connect with the company and its managerial needs in the first paragraph. Rephrasing the company mission and how your leadership or team-building skills fit in can be a great way to impress from the get-go. 

What you shouldn’t do is not address anyone specifically or sound like you could be applying to any company and management position, like the example below. 

Not specific enough!

I was enthused to see the management position opening at your company. I think this is a great business to work for and would be eager to apply my skills to your needs. 

Instead, aim for a well-thought-out opener like the one below that shows exactly how the applicant’s crisis intervention and quality assurance skills fit in with the Valley Children’s Healthcare organization’s needs. 

A thoughtful opener that will impress!

Prove your management abilities with an effective cover letter body

When you get into the cover letter body, it’s time to show exactly why you’re skills and work experience make you a qualified management candidate. 

Ideally, you want to showcase essential metrics in this section. Some common numbers managers may want to lean on include efficiency, employee satisfaction, or cost reductions. 

Additionally, any relevant education or certifications that show your knowledgeable background will be beneficial. For instance, someone applying to be an accounts receivable manager would benefit from showcasing the financial analysis skills they gained through their accounting or business finance degree. 

A nicely detailed body paragraph!

Create an actionable closing and sign off for your manager cover letter

As you come to the end of your manager cover letter, the last step is finishing with a closing that inspires action from hiring managers. 

A great place to start is relating back to the company mission and the skills you presented throughout the other sections of your cover letter. For instance, how you’ll use your lead gen management skills to help an environmentally friendly company continue growing its positive ecological impact.

Lastly, it’s best practice to thank the hiring manager for their time and end with a light call to action like “I look forward to hearing from you soon.” It’s the same as how you’d want to end a business proposal or interaction with a customer to achieve the best results. 

The closer below is a good start, but notice it doesn’t quite hit the mark since it lacks any job-specific information about the management position that will grab a hiring manager’s attention. 

Lacking job-specific information!

Thanks for reading my cover letter. I’m really interested in this management position, so I hope to hear from you soon. 

Daniel Rodriguez 

Instead, create a closer like the one below that clearly connects the candidate’s passion for Shell Oil’s innovations and sustainable development initiatives. 

A relatable closer based on the position’s needs! 

Cover letters for management positions should be one page in length. Keep it concise and relevant to key positional needs like scheduling or process improvement. 

Aim to match the job description’s tone to show how your management style will fit in with the company culture. For example, if the job description uses a serious and knowledgeable tone, you should try to match that and could benefit from explaining how you thrive at creating a professional and educated company culture. 

Unlike your resume, you shouldn’t use bullet points in a cover letter. Instead, break up information about your management skills into defined paragraphs. For instance, you could have one body paragraph explaining how you improved employee satisfaction in a previous job and another paragraph describing how you reduced production costs by 24%. 

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Management Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips

What to Include in the Cover Letter

Management cover letter template, management cover letter sample, sending an email cover letter.

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The goal of any cover letter is to provide insight into your qualifications that a hiring manager might not get from a resume alone.

When you’re applying for a management role, this context can be even more important. You’re trying to show not only that you have the skills to do a job, but to inspire others to theirs ​as well.

A good cover letter for a management level position will include information on your accomplishments, the leadership roles you have held, and how you can help the organization succeed if you were to get the job.

Include the Skills the Employer is Looking For

Scan the job posting, looking for the specific management skills desired in a candidate. Generally speaking, these skills will be related to five management functions: planning, organizing, coordinating, directing, and oversight. Include keywords related to those functions, and then match your qualifications to their list.

The stronger a match your cover letter and resume are to the job requirements, the better your chances of getting selected to interview for the position.

Quantify Your Achievements

Including quantifiable successes (numbers, percentages, growth statistics) is a way to show what you have achieved at the companies you have worked for. This is especially important for high-level jobs because employers expect a proven track record of success in the individuals they hire for management roles.

Match Your Cover Letter to the Job

Review tips for matching your qualifications to a job before you start writing. Then review this example of a cover letter for a position in management that you can tailor to fit your own credentials:

This is an example of a cover letter for a management position. Download the management cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Lucia Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 lucia.applicant@email.com

August 24, 2020

Mel Lee Director Acme Retailer 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee:

After contributing to the growth and success of three different organizations in the past 10 years, I am seeking new challenges with a company in need of someone with exceptional planning, leadership, and management abilities.

As evidenced in the enclosed resume, my experience encompasses project management, strategic planning, resource utilization, revenue growth, and cost reduction. My ability to analyze needs and create unique solutions designed to yield a profitable outcome has proven to be one of my greatest assets.

Credited with significantly impacting bottom-line profitability wherever I have worked, I excel at streamlining less-than-efficient procedures to boost productivity and sales. Proactive management of crucial external relationships allowed me to increase revenue by 17% in one year. I also negotiated exclusive relationships in a key market segment, expanding the company's share of that segment by 66%.

I know that my proven leadership skills, strong commitment to high ethical and professional standards, and flexibility in devising proactive responses to changing socioeconomic conditions would allow me to make a significant contribution to the [Company Name] team.

I would welcome the chance to discuss my qualifications with you in greater detail. If you wish to schedule a meeting, please let me know. In the meantime, please know that I appreciate your time and consideration.

Lucia Applicant (signature hard copy letter)

Lucia Applicant

If you send your cover letter via email , your goal will be the same—to show that your qualifications, achievements, and experience make you the best candidate for the management role. But, your delivery will be a little different, because real estate is at a premium in email communication. You need to get the hiring manager’s attention right off the bat and not let it go. Here’s how:

• Use the subject line wisely. Your best bet is to list your name and job title in the subject line of the email message. This lessens the chances of your message getting caught in a spam filter and saves the hiring manager time—he or she will know what your message is about right away.
• Keep it short and sweet. Three short paragraphs are plenty. More than that and you run the risk of losing their attention.
• Include your contact informtion in your signature. Skip the heading with your address and theirs, and instead include your contact information in your ​email signature. There’s no need to list the employer’s contact information.

More Cover Letter Examples

Need more examples? Here are 100+ free cover letter examples and templates for a variety of jobs and professional circumstances.

How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

After weeks of heavy job searching, 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 in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

So now, you’re stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where to start...

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.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

• How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter, Step by Step
• 15+ Job-Winning Cover Letter Examples

Let’s get started.

A cover letter is a document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume or CV.

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter is supposed to impress the hiring manager and convince them you’re worth interviewing as a candidate.

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

First of all, it should complement your resume, not copy it. Your cover letter is your chance to elaborate on important achievements, skills, or anything else that your resume doesn’t give you the space to cover. 

For example, if you have an employment gap on your resume, the cover letter is a great place to explain why it happened and how it helped you grow as a person. 

If this is your first time writing a cover letter, writing about yourself might seem complicated. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be super creative or even a good writer .

All you have to do is follow this tried and tested cover letter structure:

• Header. Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
• Formal greeting. Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
• Introduction. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
• Body. Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
• Conclusion. Summarize your key points and wrap it up professionally.

Now, let’s take a look at an example of a cover letter that follows our structure perfectly:

New to cover letter writing? Give our cover letter video a watch before diving into the article!

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

You should always include a cover letter in your job application, even if the hiring manager never reads it. Submitting a cover letter is as important as submitting a resume if you want to look like a serious candidate.

If the employer requests a cover letter as part of the screening process, not sending one is a huge red flag and will probably get your application tossed into the “no” pile immediately.

On the other hand, if the job advertisement doesn’t require a cover letter from the candidates, adding one shows you went the extra mile.

Putting in the effort to write a cover letter can set you apart from other candidates with similar professional experience and skills, and it could even sway the hiring manager to call you for an interview if you do it right.

Need to write a letter to help get you into a good school or volunteer program? Check out our guide to learn how to write a motivation letter !

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn how to write one!

We’ll go through the process in detail, step by step.

#1. Choose 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, stylish template?

Just choose one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in no time!

As a bonus, our intuitive AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter as you write it. You’ll have the perfect cover letter done in minutes!

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to 

start your cover letter

 with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

Here, you want to include all the essential contact information , including:

• Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top.
• Job Title. Match the professional title underneath your name to the exact job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Email Address. Always use a professional and easy-to-spell email address. Ideally, it should combine your first and last names.
• Phone Number. Add a number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country, no need for more details.
• Relevant Links (optional). You can add links to websites or social media profiles that are relevant to your field. Examples include a LinkedIn profile , Github, or an online portfolio.

Then it’s time to add the recipient’s contact details, such as:

• Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, add it.
• Hiring Manager's Title. While there’s no harm in writing “hiring manager,” if they’re the head of the department, we recommend you use that title accordingly.
• Company Name. Make sure to write the name of the company you're applying to.
• Location. The city and state/country are usually enough information here, too.
• Date of Writing (Optional). You can include the date you wrote your cover letter for an extra professional touch.

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed all the contact information, it’s time to start writing the content of the cover letter.

The first thing you need to do here is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager.

In fact, you want to address the hiring manager personally .

Forget the old “Dear Sir or Madam” or the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.” You want to give your future boss a good impression and show them that you did your research before sending in your application.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes something sticks with their generic approach

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager?

First, check the job ad. The hiring manager’s name might be listed somewhere in it.

If that doesn’t work, check the company’s LinkedIn page. You just need to look up the head of the relevant department you’re applying to, and you’re all set.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novorésumé. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer.

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

But let’s say you’re applying for a position as a server . In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager” or “food and beverage manager.”

If the results don’t come up with anything, try checking out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Make sure to address them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, you can just stick to their full name, like so:

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

But what if you still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, no matter where you look?

No worries. You can direct your cover letter to the company, department, or team as a whole, or just skip the hiring manager’s name.

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear [Company Name]

Are you applying for a research position? Learn how to write an academic personal statement .

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Hiring managers 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 biggest problem with most opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Here’s an example:

• 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 anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

And do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start with some of your top achievements to grab the reader’s attention. And to get the point across, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

Your opening paragraph should also show the hiring manager a bit about why you want this specific job. For example, mention how the job relates to your plans for the future or how it can help you grow professionally. This will show the hiring manager that you’re not just applying left and right—you’re actually enthusiastic about getting this particular role.

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

My name’s Michael, and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked as a Sales Representative with Company X, another fin-tech company , for 3+ years, where I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month and beat the KPIs by around 40%. I believe that my previous industry experience, passion for finance , and excellence in sales make me the right candidate for the job.

The second candidate starts with what they can do for the company in the future and immediately lists an impressive and relevant achievement. Since they’re experienced in the same industry and interested in finance, the hiring manager can see they’re not just a random applicant.

From this introduction, it’s safe to say that the hiring manager would read the rest of this candidate’s cover letter.

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

The next part of your cover letter is where you can go into detail about what sets you apart as a qualified candidate for the job.

The main thing you need to remember here is that you shouldn’t make it all about yourself . Your cover letter is supposed to show the hiring manager how you relate to the job and the company you’re applying to.

No matter how cool you make yourself sound in your cover letter, if you don’t tailor it to match what the hiring manager is looking for, you’re not getting an interview.

To get this right, use the job ad as a reference when writing your cover letter. Make sure to highlight skills and achievements that match the job requirements, and you’re good to go.

Since this part of your cover letter is by far the longest, you should split it into at least two paragraphs.

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Before you can show the hiring manager that you’re exactly what they’ve been looking for, you need to know what it is they’re looking for.

Start by doing a bit of research. Learn what the most important skills and responsibilities of the role are according to the job ad, and focus on any relevant experience you have that matches them.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. The top requirements on the job ad are:

• Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
• Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
• Excellent copywriting skills

So, in the body of your cover letter, you need to show how you meet these requirements. Here’s an example of what that can look like:

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 $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and 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

Our example addresses all the necessary requirements and shows off the candidate’s relevant skills.

Are you a student applying for your first internship? Learn how to write an internship cover letter with our dedicated guide.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

As skilled and experienced as you may be, that’s not all the hiring manager is looking for.

They also want someone who’s a good fit for their company and who actually wants to work there.

Employees who don’t fit in with the company culture are likely to quit sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary , so hiring managers vet candidates very carefully to avoid this scenario.

So, you have to convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about working with them.

Start by doing some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company’s product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the company’s culture like?

Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or on job-search websites like Jobscan or Glassdoor.

Then, pick your favorite thing about the company and talk about it in your cover letter.

But don’t just describe the company in its own words just to flatter them. Be super specific—the hiring manager can see through any fluff.

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can 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 strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

So, make sure to do your fair share of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying to that specific company.

Is the company you want to work for not hiring at the moment? Check out our guide to writing a letter of interest .

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Finally, it’s time to conclude your cover letter.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't make in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? If there’s any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision, mention it here. If not, just recap your key selling points so far, such as key skills and expertise.
• Express gratitude. Politely thanking the hiring manager for their time is always a good idea.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. This means you should ask the hiring manager to do something, like call you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.
• Remember to sign your cover letter. Just add a formal closing line and sign your name at the bottom.

Here’s an example of how to end your cover letter :

I hope to help Company X make the most 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. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

Feel free to use one of these other popular closing lines for your cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Once you’re done with your cover letter, it’s time to check if it meets all industry requirements. 

Give our handy cover letter writing checklist a look to make sure:

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

• The hiring manager in the company
• Your future direct supervisor
• The company/department in general

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention some of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
• Did you convey enthusiasm for the specific role?

Do you show that you’re the right candidate for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
• Did you show how your experiences helped 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 conclude your cover letter properly?

• Did you recap your key selling points in the conclusion?
• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
• Did you use the right formal closing line and sign your name?

15 Cover Letter Tips

Now you’re all set to write your cover letter! 

Before you start typing, here are some cover letter tips to help take your cover letter to the next level:

• Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job. Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the job you're applying for. This shows you're not just sending generic applications left and right, and it tells the hiring manager you’re the right person for the job.
• Showcase Your Skills. Talk about how your skills meet the company’s needs. And while your hard skills should be front and center, you shouldn’t underestimate your soft skills in your cover letter either.
• Avoid Fluff. Don’t make any generic statements you can’t back up. The hiring manager can tell when you’re just throwing words around, and it doesn’t make your cover letter look good.
• Use Specific Examples. Instead of saying you're great at something, give an actual example to back up your claim. Any data you can provide makes you sound more credible, so quantify your achievements. For example, give numbers such as percentages related to your performance and the timeframe it took to accomplish certain achievements.
• Research the Company. Always take time to learn about the company you're applying to. Make sure to mention something about them in your cover letter to show the hiring manager that you're interested.
• Follow the Application Instructions. If the job posting asks for something specific in your cover letter or requires a certain format, make sure you include it. Not following instructions can come off as unattentive or signal to the hiring manager that you’re not taking the job seriously.
• Use the Right Template and Format. Choose the right cover letter format and adapt your cover letter’s look to the industry you’re applying for. For example, if you’re aiming for a job in Law or Finance, you should go for a cleaner, more professional look. But if you’re applying for a field that values innovation, like IT or Design, you have more room for creativity.
• Express Your Enthusiasm. Let the hiring manager know why you're excited about the job. Your passion for the specific role or the field in general can be a big selling point, and show them that you’re genuinely interested, not just applying left and right.
• Address Any Gaps. If there are any employment gaps in your resume , your cover letter is a great place to mention why. Your resume doesn’t give you enough space to elaborate on an employment gap, so addressing it here can set hiring managers at ease—life happens, and employers understand.
• Avoid Quirky Emails. Your email address should be presentable. It’s hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Just use a [email protected] format.
• Check Your Contact Information. Typos in your email address or phone number can mean a missed opportunity. Double-check these before sending your application.
• Mention if You Want to Relocate. If you’re looking for a job that lets you move somewhere else, specify this in your cover letter.
• Keep It Brief. You want to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel, so if you go over one page, they simply won’t read it at all.
• Use a Professional Tone. Even though a conversational tone isn’t a bad thing, remember that it's still a formal document. Show professionalism in your cover letter by keeping slang, jargon, and emojis out of it.
• Proofread Carefully. Typos and grammar mistakes are a huge deal-breaker. Use a tool like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar, or even get a friend to check it for you.

15+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Check out some perfect cover letter examples for different experience levels and various professions.

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing a college student cover letter here.

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a project manager cover letter here.

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a team leader cover letter here.

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to a career change resume and cover letter here.

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a management cover letter here.

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an executive resume here.

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing an IT cover letter here.

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a consultant cover letter here.

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a human resources cover letter here.

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business cover letter here.

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales cover letter here.

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a social worker cover letter here.

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a lawyer cover letter here.

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an administrative assistant cover letter here.

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineer cover letter here.

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist cover letter here.

Need more inspiration? Check out these cover letter examples to learn what makes them stand out.

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Not sure how to start your cover letter? Don’t worry!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the blanks for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Heart of 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 falls through.

After all, your cover letter is meant to complement your resume. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression in your cover letter, only for the hiring manager to never read it because your resume was mediocre.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here, too.

Check out our dedicated guide on how to make a resume and learn everything you need to know to land your dream job!

Just pick one of our resume templates and start writing your own job-winning resume.

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’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
• To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
• Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
• Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve every step of the way! 

Follow our career blog for more valuable advice, or check out some of our top guides, such as:

• How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers [Full List]

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3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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What’s a cover letter?

What does a cover letter include, 3 cover letter samples to make your own, 3 more tips for a winning cover letter, letter for success.

You studied the job application, polished your resume, and are ready to hit “send.” But before you do, you need to craft a cover letter to support your candidacy. 

A hiring manager’s job is to quickly gauge whether you have the know-how to fit the roles and responsibilities of a job. And they also want to know if you possess soft skills that bring value to company culture and the business as a whole. Every document you send to a potential employer should prove you’re the best person for the job. 

Your resume or CV showcases your professional development based on skills and work experience. But the best resumes are concise, with bullet points that lead the reader to the most important information. You often don’t have enough space to truly express your value.

A good cover letter is an opportunity to highlight your experience and display your workplace personality . It gives a hiring manager a taste of what it’ll be like to work with you — and going the extra mile shows you’re genuinely interested in the job description.

To help you write a successful application for your dream job, here’s information around cover letters plus three cover letter examples to adapt to your needs. 

A professional cover letter is a document you submit to a hiring manager or recruiter with your application. It’s a persuasive letter that dives deeper into your skills and experience. 

But an effective cover letter should do more than just copy and paste the content of your resume. It describes how you’ll use those skills on the job. You can highlight your most relevant personal achievements and speak directly about the value proposition you’ll bring to the company.

Think of your cover letter like a movie trailer. It should make an engaging first impression , tell an exciting story , and entice the hiring manager to learn more about you. 

Many people dread writing cover letters . They take time to compose, and you never know if hiring managers will actually take the time to read them. But submitting one at all shows the company that you’re serious about earning a position , proving you’re a high-quality applicant who cares about the job.

Most professional emails and letters follow the same format, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Typically, a cover letter is between 250 and 400 words and fits onto one page. 

You can send a cover letter in three ways: as an email attachment, in the body of an email, or as part of an online application. Pay careful attention to the instructions in the job posting .

Some companies may prefer a specific file attachment for easy internal sharing, and sending the right format tells the hiring manager you have an eye for detail and take direction. 

Here’s an example of what you’ll find in a basic cover letter template:

Header with contact information: Let your reader know who you are, with your full name and professional email address at the top of the page. You may include additional information like a personal website or LinkedIn profile , location, and contact information like a phone number. 

Opening paragraph: Begin with a professional salutation . Research the company and try to find the hiring manager or recruiter's name to demonstrate professionalism and due diligence. Your opening paragraph should be a quick show of gratitude that thanks them for their time and consideration. 

Body: Your second and third paragraphs should tell an engaging story introducing you as a person and an employee.

This might include a relevant anecdote about why you’re interested in the company and a personal achievement that connects the role to your professional development goals .

Always tie in skills and keywords from the job posting, and consider researching the company’s core values and wrapping them into the text. 

The closing sale: Your final paragraph should reiterate your main selling points, demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job, and thank the person for their consideration. Conclude with an appropriate email sign-off . 

Professional communication should be short and to the point, whether you’re writing an out-of-office message , letter of interest , or promotion announcement . Developing a cover letter format that self-promotes your best qualities without losing your reader’s attention requires careful, purposeful writing. 

To write your own, here are three examples to edit based on your needs and the new job's requirements:

1. Simple cover letter template for an entry-level job

This basic application letter tells a hiring manager or recruiter what they need to know about your potential, even without years of experience.

It shows off important soft skills like enthusiasm, initiative , and goal-setting that provide insights into the type of worker you are. This cover letter also highlights necessary information and your unique value proposition. 

[your name]

[email address]

Dear [hiring manager’s name], 

I hope this letter finds you well. Thank you for considering me for the [position] at [company name]. As a recent college graduate with a [degree title], I’m eager and excited to enter the workforce. 

I’m a creative and innovative person who excels in [type of work]. When deciding what major to choose, I found that [topic] was a career path that allowed me to nurture my natural critical thinking abilities and find out-of-the-box solutions.

At school, I balanced my coursework between [subject], [subject], and [subject], whic h helped grow my passion for [industry]. That led me to find [company name], an organization I really admire for its [attributes and company goals].

While wrapping up my degree, I completed an internship at [company name] as part of [department]. The experience tested my understanding of [topic] with real-life scenarios and proved that I excel equally in independent research and fast-paced, collaborative environments.

It cemented my motivation to continue to push my career in this direction, and I hope to continue my work with your team.

Thank you again for taking the time to read my application. I hope to have the opportunity to interview and discuss more about the job, along with how I can contribute to [company name]’s goals. I have attached my resume and am happy to provide you with professional references . 

Sincerely, 

[LinkedIn profile URL]

2. Creative cover letter template for an internal promotion

A great cover letter grabs a hiring manager's attention like a gripping story, and this is especially true when you’re already passionate about the company you work for.

This cover letter provides an emotional hook and supports itself with specific examples that promote the right experience level, attitude, and know-how for an internal promotion .

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the [job title] opening. Having dedicated the past [number] years to working on [previous team], I feel deeply connected to [company name]’s mission and culture.

I’m ready to take the expertise I’ve learned in my current [title] role to contribute to the success of the business in new ways while also pushing my own career growth forward.

If you’re unfamiliar with my work, last summer, I supported [project] and used my [skills] to bring it to fruition. Building a [type of project] from the ground up and working strategically across [fields] was an eye-opening and formative new experience, and it taught me [more specific skills].

I’m proud to say we [achievements with metrics], and I know I can bring that expertise to [new position],

While I have enjoyed the challenge of [previous title], that experience taught me that I excel with [skills], which I know I can apply to [new title]. I'm ready to translate my knowledge of [topic] to a more wide-reaching role handling [new responsibilities].

The creativity , collaboration, and flexibility I’ve shown in my current role show that I’m up for the next challenge. 

Thank you again for inviting me to apply. I look forward to this opportunity to continue pushing our company toward success. 

3. Best cover letter template for a freelancer or contractor

For a contract or freelance job, a hiring manager wants to know that you’re thoughtful, competent, and independent enough to finish your work on time without too much guidance.

Similar to a letter of intent , researching the company and drawing parallels to your skills and experience will capture the hiring manager’s attention.

I hope you’re doing well. I’m excited to apply for the [contract role] you’ve posted. 

With [number] years of experience working independently for a wide range of companies, including startups, small businesses, and national brands, I have a proven ability to adapt my skills to any business model and complete [type of work] that meets your goals. 

Throughout my career, I’ve always prioritized working with companies that emphasize impact beyond their bottom line. Your commitment to [company values] speak directly to the values guiding my work.

I’m confident we can develop the solutions you’re looking for [cite goal listed in the job post, like increasing market share] while respecting the ethos of our work philosophies.

As a [job title or topic], I’ve worked with nearly [number] brands and continue to regularly consult with [number]. My approach is [describe work ethos]. I value quality over quantity. Building trust and long-term relationships while contributing truly valuable work is what matters most. 

I’m fluent in [skill], stay on top of emerging AI technologies, and thrive on [skill/topic]. My top concern is always making the right recommendation for the client, not the market.

I pride myself on my adaptability and ability to tease out the best strategy for my clients. Over the past year, my work has contributed to over [number] in net profits for clients of a similar size to your own. 

I’m eager to hear more about your long-term objectives and bring my expertise to your mission. 

Best regards,

[professional website URL]

Remember that a cover letter is specific to the job and to your experience, and even putting in just five extra minutes of effort can show a potential employer you care. Here are some extra tips to make sure your application is perfect:

Prepare ahead of time: There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all application. The perfect resume is specific to the job search, responsibilities, and company you’re applying to — and the same goes for your cover letter.

Read the job post thoroughly for keywords and use them to guide your writing. Incorporating company language into your own will show that you fit the team. 

Double-check your work: Misspellings, grammar mistakes, and inconsistent formatting can ruin your chances of getting an interview . Small or consistent errors insinuate that you lack effort and care.

Ask a colleague to give it a read-through to make sure you're effectively representing yourself. Likewise, run your final draft through a grammar app to ensure punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure are perfect. 

Use a cover letter builder: If you’re drawing a blank on the best cover letter design or can’t find the right words, lean on available online tools. You can use a professional cover letter template on a resume builder site to guide you and ensure you check off all the right boxes for a hiring manager. 

While your resume highlights your skills in a structured format, the cover letter gives you more freedom to showcase your positive personality traits , celebrate your achievements, and impress a potential employer. While not every job will require a cover letter, it’s never a bad idea to go the extra mile to make a case for yourself as the best candidate. 

Now that you have several cover letter examples, it’s time to get writing. Research the company, study the role, and draw the right parallels between its needs and your abilities. It could be just the motivation for a hiring manager to give your resume a little extra attention — and for you to land your next job. 

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

ChatGPT cover letters: How to use this tool the right way

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The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Cover Letter in 2024

• May 12, 2024
• by steven-austin

In an era of LinkedIn Easy Apply and one-click job applications, it‘s tempting to think of cover letters as a relic of a bygone age. But while the job search landscape continues to evolve, one truth remains constant: a great cover letter is still one of the most effective ways to differentiate yourself from the competition and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Consider these statistics:

• On average, a corporate job opening attracts around 250 applicants, according to a 2022 report by Zety. That means your application needs to stand out from a veritable sea of candidates.
• A 2023 ResumeLab survey of 200 hiring managers found that 83% of respondents consider cover letters important in their hiring decisions.
• In the same study, 72% said they expect a cover letter even if the job ad doesn‘t explicitly require one.

In other words, neglecting to include a cover letter is a missed opportunity at best and a serious application blunder at worst.

But what exactly is a cover letter, and what separates an average one from one that makes a hiring manager sit up and take notice? Let‘s dive in.

Anatomy of a Winning Cover Letter

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume and provides additional context for the experiences and qualifications you‘ve outlined. But whereas a resume is a high-level overview of your skills and work history, a cover letter is your chance to craft a compelling narrative that ties your unique background to the needs of the company and role you‘re applying for.

Think of it as your personal sales pitch – an opportunity to introduce yourself, highlight your most relevant strengths, and convey your enthusiasm for the position in a way that a dry list of bullet points simply can‘t.

According to career expert and founder of Resume Worded Rohan Mahtani, an effective cover letter consists of three core components:

A clear connection between your background and the role. The best cover letters don‘t just regurgitate the resume; they provide specific examples of how your skills and experiences have prepared you to excel in the position you‘re applying for.

Concrete evidence of your value. It‘s not enough to say you‘re a strong communicator or an experienced project manager. Use hard numbers and results-oriented language to illustrate the impact you‘ve had in previous roles.

Authentic enthusiasm for the company. Hiring managers can spot a generic template from a mile away. Great cover letters demonstrate that you‘ve done your homework on the company and have a genuine interest in contributing to its mission.

So what does this look like in practice? Let‘s break down each section of a winning cover letter.

Header & Salutation

Start with a professional header that includes your full name, email address, and phone number. You can also include links to your LinkedIn profile, personal website, or online portfolio if relevant.

Then, address your letter to a specific individual – ideally the hiring manager for the role. A bit of LinkedIn sleuthing or a quick call to the company‘s main line can often uncover the right contact. If you can‘t find a name, "Dear Hiring Manager" is a safe bet.

Opening Paragraph

Your introductory paragraph needs to grab the reader‘s attention and provide a clear roadmap for the rest of the letter. Avoid generic platitudes like "I am writing to express my interest in the X position at Y company." Instead, lead with a punchy opening line that showcases your personality and unique value proposition.

For instance, you might write:

"In my 5 years as a sales manager, I‘ve learned that there are three keys to hitting aggressive revenue targets: strategic prospecting, disciplined pipeline management, and a tireless focus on customer success. It‘s an approach that‘s enabled me to grow my accounts by an average of 25% year-over-year and build strong relationships with enterprise clients like Z Corp."

This opening does several things right:

• It immediately establishes the writer‘s relevant experience and expertise.
• It uses specific metrics to illustrate their impact.
• It name-drops a high-profile client, suggesting an impressive professional network.
• It demonstrates an understanding of what it takes to succeed in a sales leadership role.

Body Paragraphs

The main body of your cover letter is where you‘ll draw explicit connections between your background and the requirements of the role. A good rule of thumb is to include 2-3 body paragraphs, each focused on a different key selling point.

Each paragraph should follow a simple formula:

• Start with a topic sentence that outlines one of your key strengths or experiences as it relates to the role.
• Provide a specific example or anecdote that illustrates this strength in action.
• Explain how this experience has prepared you to excel in the position you‘re applying for.

For example:

"In my current role as Marketing Manager at B Company, I‘ve had the opportunity to lead a number of high-impact digital campaigns. Most recently, I spearheaded the launch of a new mobile app that garnered over 50K downloads in its first month and was featured as App of the Day in the Apple store. To achieve these results, I collaborated closely with our product and engineering teams to define our target audience, craft compelling messaging, and design an intuitive user experience.

This cross-functional leadership experience, coupled with my track record of driving measurable results through innovative marketing strategies, has prepared me to step into the role of Senior Marketing Manager at your company and hit the ground running from day one."

Notice how this paragraph leads with a clear value proposition ("I‘ve had the opportunity to lead high-impact digital campaigns"), provides a concrete example to back it up, and ties it directly to the requirements of the role they‘re applying for.

Closing Paragraph

Your final paragraph is where you‘ll reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and the company, and include a call-to-action for next steps. For instance:

"I‘m thrilled at the prospect of bringing my skills in data analysis and business strategy to the Business Operations Manager role at Z Corp. With your company‘s impressive track record of innovation in the SaaS space and recent Series C funding round, I‘m confident that this is the kind of fast-paced, high-growth environment where I can make a real impact.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my experience can contribute to Z Corp‘s ambitious goals. I will follow up next week to see if there is a convenient time for us to connect."

This closing paragraph does a few things well:

• It reiterates the candidate‘s relevant skills and ties them directly to the role.
• It demonstrates that the candidate has done their research on the company‘s market position and recent milestones.
• It includes a specific commitment to follow up, showing initiative and genuine interest.

Key Mistakes to Avoid

Now that we‘ve covered what goes into a great cover letter, let‘s take a look at some of the most common pitfalls to steer clear of:

Typos and grammatical errors. In a 2022 TopResume survey of 332 hiring managers and recruiters, 79% said they would dismiss a candidate if their cover letter contained spelling or grammatical mistakes. Always proofread your letter multiple times and consider having a trusted friend or colleague give it a second look.

Rehashing your resume. Your cover letter shouldn‘t just be a narrative version of your resume. Use it as an opportunity to provide additional context and color for the experiences you‘ve highlighted.

Focusing too much on yourself. While it‘s important to showcase your strengths and accomplishments, be sure to tie them back to the needs of the role and company. Use "you" language to demonstrate your understanding of the company‘s challenges and goals.

Being too formal or robotic. While a cover letter is a professional document, that doesn‘t mean it needs to be stiff or formulaic. Use clear, concise language and don‘t be afraid to inject some personality.

Sending the same generic letter for every application. Customization is key. Make sure to tailor each letter to the specific role and company, highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to that particular opportunity.

Cover Letter Dos and Don‘ts

To help you craft a cover letter that showcases your unique value and leaves a lasting impression, here are some key dos and don‘ts to keep in mind:

• Address your letter to a specific person whenever possible
• Lead with a strong opening paragraph that grabs the reader‘s attention
• Use concrete examples and metrics to illustrate your accomplishments
• Research the company and demonstrate your knowledge of its mission and goals
• Tailor your language and tone to the company‘s culture and the role
• Keep it concise – aim for 3-4 paragraphs that fit on one page
• Use clear, easy-to-read formatting, with ample white space
• End with a call-to-action and a commitment to follow up
• Proofread carefully for spelling, grammar, and clarity

Don‘t:

• Use generic salutations like "To Whom It May Concern"
• Rely on buzzwords or industry jargon
• Simply repeat the contents of your resume
• Make unsubstantiated claims about your abilities
• Focus too much on what the company can do for you
• Include irrelevant personal information or anecdotes
• Exceed one page in length
• Use an unprofessional email address or file name
• Forget to update the company name and position for each application
• Send your letter without proofreading it carefully

Putting it All Together: A Cover Letter Template

To help you structure your cover letter for maximum impact, here‘s a simple template you can follow:

Remember, this is just a starting point. The most effective cover letters are those that are authentic, specific, and tailored to the unique requirements of the role and the culture of the company. Don‘t be afraid to let your personality shine through – after all, a cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself as a human being, not just a collection of skills and experiences.

Cover Letter Resources and Inspiration

As you sit down to craft your own compelling cover letter, here are a few additional resources to help you along the way:

• HubSpot‘s Free Cover Letter Templates
• Indeed‘s Cover Letter Samples by Industry
• The Muse‘s Cover Letter Examples
• Harvard Business Review‘s Cover Letter Guide

For even more inspiration, check out these examples of real cover letters that landed job offers:

• 7 Cover Letter Examples That Got Something Right
• 8 Brilliant Cover Letter Closing Paragraph Examples
• 5 Short Cover Letter Examples for Any Job

Remember, the best cover letters aren‘t formulaic or cookie-cutter. They‘re authentic, memorable, and tailored to the unique needs of the role and company. By following the strategies and examples outlined in this guide, you‘ll be well on your way to crafting a cover letter that sets you apart from the competition and brings you one step closer to landing your dream job.

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Securing a job in today’s competitive job market is pretty challenging, a well-written job application letter can make all the difference in landing a dream job. It serves as your first introduction to your potential employer and offers a valuable opportunity to showcase your qualifications, skills, enthusiasm, and suitability for the role.

To explore the ins and outs of writing a job application letter, and how to make a strong impression with it, check out this blog. This blog will show you how to write an exceptional job application letter that will help you stand out from the competition.

A job application letter is commonly referred to as a cover letter. This letter of application is a document that is sent along with your resume when you apply for a job. Its main purpose is to introduce yourself to the potential employer or hiring manager, providing an opportunity to present your skills, qualifications, and experience that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Additionally, it aims to persuade the hiring manager to consider you for the role. 

Therefore, a strong job application letter serves as your ultimate gateway to your dream job.

• Components of a Job Application Letter

To draft an outstanding application you need to follow the right step to write a letter. Therefore, here are the key components that you should follow:

Include your contact information and the date at the top of the letter, followed by the employer’s contact details.

Begin your letter with a formal greeting to the hiring manager. It’s best to address the letter with the name of the hiring manager. For this, it’s advisable to call the company and ask for the hiring manager’s name as it would look professional. Alternatively, use a generic salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager”.

Craft a standout introduction to build that positive impression from the start of your letter. Your introduction should highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that make you a suitable candidate for the job.

Highlight what value you can bring to the company with this position. Talk about why you’re the perfect fit for the job; this way, you can showcase your professional skills and stand out from other applicants.

Express your enthusiasm for the position and reiterate your interest in the opportunity. Also, thank the employer for considering your application. End the letter with professional closing for example: “Yours sincerely”, “Best regards”, or “Thanks for your consideration”, followed by your name and signature.

Read More: All You Need to Know About Resume Headlines – With Example

• Tips on How to Write a Job Application Letter

Customize your application letter for the job; formally, it’s best to follow the key components that we discussed above. This way, you can tailor your application letter to each job, highlighting the qualifications and experiences most relevant to the position.

Show your understanding of the company and its values in your application letter as this shows that you are aware of what the company does, and your genuine interest in the position.

Though you have a lot to say and express in your letter, do not go over the board, keep it concise and to the point, focusing on key skills and experiences that align with the role.

It sometimes happens that the hiring manager may not read the entire letter but rather would just find the relevant keywords that match the job requirements. Additionally, incorporating keywords will also help your application stand out to applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Finally, once you have drafted your outstanding job application letter, give a quick check on the grammatical errors to ensure the letter is professionally well formatted without any blunders.

• Best Job Application Letter Format (Example Templates)

Subject: Application for the Role of [Job Title] at [Company Name]

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position listed on [where you found the job posting]. As a recent graduate from [University/College Name], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and grow both personally and professionally.

During my academic studies, I developed strong skills in [relevant skills or coursework]. I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description] and am eager to apply my knowledge and enthusiasm to support [Company Name]’s goals.

I am highly motivated and detail-oriented, and I possess excellent communication skills. I am confident that my academic background and passion for [industry or field] make me a strong candidate for this position.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of [Company Name].

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Subject: Job Application for [Job Title] Position at [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as listed on [where you found the job posting]. With over [number of years] years of experience in [relevant industry or field], I am excited about the opportunity to bring my expertise to your esteemed organization.

In my current role at [Current Company], I have successfully [mention key achievements or responsibilities]. These experiences have equipped me with strong skills in [relevant skills or competencies], including [specific skills mentioned in the job description].

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am confident that my background in [relevant experience or industry] aligns well with the needs of [Company Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my qualifications and experiences can contribute to the continued success of [Company Name].

Yours Sincerely,

Subject: Expressing Interest in [Job Title] Position at [Company Name]

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as posted on [where you found the job posting]. With [number of years] years of experience in [relevant industry or field], I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team.

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I [briefly mention key responsibilities or achievements]. These experiences have honed my skills in [relevant skills or competencies], and I am eager to apply them to drive success at [Company Name].

I am particularly impressed by [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with the talented team at [Company Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my background and expertise align with the needs of your organization.

Read More: Resume Headline For Freshers: 30+ Examples and Tips

Now that you’ve reached the end of this article, you understand that a well-written job application letter can significantly enhance your chances of securing an interview with your dream company in this challenging job market. Therefore, follow these tips, key components, and templates to draft a successful job application letter that impresses your hiring manager. With the right approach, you’ll be one step closer to your next career opportunity.

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How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job

I ’ve read thousands, maybe tens of thousands, of cover letters in my career. If you’re thinking that sounds like really boring reading, you’re right. What I can tell you from enduring that experience is that most cover letters are terrible — and not only that, but squandered opportunities. When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test.

So let’s talk about how to do cover letters right.

First, understand the point of a cover letter.

The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just your résumé. Managers generally aren’t hiring based solely on your work history; your experience is crucial, yes, but they’re also looking for someone who will be easy to work with, shows good judgment, communicates well, possesses strong critical thinking skills and a drive to get things done, complements their current team, and all the other things you yourself probably want from your co-workers. It’s tough to learn much about those things from job history alone, and that’s where your cover letter comes in.

Because of that …

Whatever you do, don’t just summarize your résumé.

The No. 1 mistake people make with cover letters is that they simply use them to summarize their résumé. This makes no sense — hiring managers don’t need a summary of your résumé! It’s on the very next page! They’re about to see it as soon as they scroll down. And if you think about it, your entire application is only a few pages (in most cases, a one- or two-page résumé and a one-page cover letter) — why would you squander one of those pages by repeating the content of the others? And yet, probably 95 percent of the cover letters I see don’t add anything new beyond the résumé itself (and that’s a conservative estimate).

Instead, your cover letter should go beyond your work history to talk about things that make you especially well-suited for the job. For example, if you’re applying for an assistant job that requires being highly organized and you neurotically track your household finances in a detailed, color-coded spreadsheet, most hiring managers would love to know that because it says something about the kind of attention to detail you’d bring to the job. That’s not something you could put on your résumé, but it can go in your cover letter.

Or maybe your last boss told you that you were the most accurate data processor she’d ever seen, or came to rely on you as her go-to person whenever a lightning-fast rewrite was needed. Maybe your co-workers called you “the client whisperer” because of your skill in calming upset clients. Maybe you’re regularly sought out by more senior staff to help problem-solve, or you find immense satisfaction in bringing order to chaos. Those sorts of details illustrate what you bring to the job in a different way than your résumé does, and they belong in your cover letter.

If you’re still stumped, pretend you’re writing an email to a friend about why you’d be great at the job. You probably wouldn’t do that by stiffly reciting your work history, right? You’d talk about what you’re good at and how you’d approach the work. That’s what you want here.

You don’t need a creative opening line.

If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you don’t. Just be simple and straightforward:

• “I’m writing to apply for your X position.”

• “I’d love to be considered for your X position.”

• “I’m interested in your X position because …”

• “I’m excited to apply for your X position.”

That’s it! Straightforward is fine — better, even, if the alternative is sounding like an aggressive salesperson.

Show, don’t tell.

A lot of cover letters assert that the person who wrote it would excel at the job or announce that the applicant is a skillful engineer or a great communicator or all sorts of other subjective superlatives. That’s wasted space — the hiring manager has no reason to believe it, and so many candidates claim those things about themselves that most managers ignore that sort of self-assessment entirely. So instead of simply declaring that you’re great at X (whatever X is), your letter should demonstrate that. And the way you do that is by describing accomplishments and experiences that illustrate it.

Here’s a concrete example taken from one extraordinarily effective cover-letter makeover that I saw. The candidate had originally written, “I offer exceptional attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and a talent for managing complex projects with a demonstrated ability to prioritize and multitask.” That’s pretty boring and not especially convincing, right? (This is also exactly how most people’s cover letters read.)

In her revised version, she wrote this instead:

“In addition to being flexible and responsive, I’m also a fanatic for details — particularly when it comes to presentation. One of my recent projects involved coordinating a 200-page grant proposal: I proofed and edited the narratives provided by the division head, formatted spreadsheets, and generally made sure that every line was letter-perfect and that the entire finished product conformed to the specific guidelines of the RFP. (The result? A five-year, $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying this same level of attention to detail to tasks as visible as prepping the materials for a top-level meeting and as mundane as making sure the copier never runs out of paper.”

That second version is so much more compelling and interesting — and makes me believe that she really is great with details.

If there’s anything unusual or confusing about your candidacy, address it in the letter.

Your cover letter is your chance to provide context for things that otherwise might seem confusing or less than ideal to a hiring manager. For example, if you’re overqualified for the position but are excited about it anyway, or if you’re a bit underqualified but have reason to think you could excel at the job, address that up front. Or if your background is in a different field but you’re actively working to move into this one, say so, talk about why, and explain how your experience will translate. Or if you’re applying for a job across the country from where you live because you’re hoping to relocate to be closer to your family, let them know that.

If you don’t provide that kind of context, it’s too easy for a hiring manager to decide you’re the wrong fit or applying to everything you see or don’t understand the job description and put you in the “no” pile. A cover letter gives you a chance to say, “No, wait — here’s why this could be a good match.”

Keep the tone warm and conversational.

While there are some industries that prize formal-sounding cover letters — like law — in most fields, yours will stand out if it’s warm and conversational. Aim for the tone you’d use if you were writing to a co-worker whom you liked a lot but didn’t know especially well. It’s okay to show some personality or even use humor; as long as you don’t go overboard, your letter will be stronger for it.

Don’t use a form letter.

You don’t need to write every cover letter completely from scratch, but if you’re not customizing it to each job, you’re doing it wrong. Form letters tend to read like form letters, and they waste the chance to speak to the specifics of what this employer is looking for and what it will take to thrive in this particular job.

If you’re applying for a lot of similar jobs, of course you’ll end up reusing language from one letter to the next. But you shouldn’t have a single cover letter that you wrote once and then use every time you apply; whatever you send should sound like you wrote it with the nuances of this one job in mind.

A good litmus test is this: Could you imagine other applicants for this job sending in the same letter? If so, that’s a sign that you haven’t made it individualized enough to you and are probably leaning too heavily on reciting your work history.

No, you don’t need to hunt down the hiring manager’s name.

If you read much job-search advice, at some point you’ll come across the idea that you need to do Woodward and Bernstein–level research to hunt down the hiring manager’s name in order to open your letter with “Dear Matilda Jones.” You don’t need to do this; no reasonable hiring manager will care. If the name is easily available, by all means, feel free to use it, but otherwise “Dear Hiring Manager” is absolutely fine. Take the hour you just freed up and do something more enjoyable with it.

Keep it under one page.

If your cover letters are longer than a page, you’re writing too much, and you risk annoying hiring managers who are likely sifting through hundreds of applications and don’t have time to read lengthy tomes. On the other hand, if you only write one paragraph, it’s unlikely that you’re making a compelling case for yourself as a candidate — not impossible, but unlikely. For most people, something close to a page is about right.

Don’t agonize over the small details.

What matters most about your cover letter is its content. You should of course ensure that it’s well-written and thoroughly proofread, but many job seekers agonize over elements of the letter that really don’t matter. I get tons of  questions from job seekers  about whether they should attach their cover letter or put it in the body of the email (answer: No one cares, but attaching it makes it easier to share and will preserve your formatting), or what to name the file (again, no one really cares as long as it’s reasonably professional, but when people are dealing with hundreds of files named “resume,” it’s courteous to name it with your full name).

Approaching your cover letter like this can make a huge difference in your job search. It can be the thing that moves your application from the “maybe” pile (or even the “no” pile) to the “yes” pile. Of course, writing cover letters like this will take more time than sending out the same templated letter summarizing your résumé — but 10 personalized, compelling cover letters are likely to get you more  interview invitations  than 50 generic ones will.

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