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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

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.

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60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must . 

Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.

Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done. 

You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates. 

And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.

Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples 

#1. career change cover letter example .

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

• Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
• Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
• Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.

Check out our guide video guide to learn how to write a Cover Letter that gets you HIRED!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example 

• Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
• Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
• Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.

Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish! 

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

• Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements. 
• Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job. 
• Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs. 

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

• Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career. 
• Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.

Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample. 

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

Here’s what this cover letter does right: 

• Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail. 
• Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements. 

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

• Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking. 
• Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.  
• Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression. 

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example 

• Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time. 
• A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression. 
• Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.

Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.  
• Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right? 
• Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.

Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume . 

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example 

• Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements. 
• Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.

For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

• Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template. 
• Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry. 
• Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.

Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.  
• Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.  
• Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.

Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter. 
• Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee. 
• Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression. 

Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

• Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing. 
• Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression. 
• Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability. 

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

• It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in. 
• Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better. 
• Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it. 

This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example 

• Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template. 
• Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length. 
• Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements. 

Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

• Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time. 
• Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention. 
• Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for. 

Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

• Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements. 
• Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are. 
• Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume. 

Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

• Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action. 
• Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication . 

This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

• Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles. 
• Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job. 

Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

• Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
• Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data. 
• Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this. 

This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities.
• Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job.
• Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements.

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

40+ More Cover Letter Examples and Guides 

Couldn’t find a cover letter example for your field? Do not worry.

Below you can find a number of other cover letter examples for different fields and industries:

• Acting Cover Letter Examples
• Accounting Cover Letter Examples
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Architecture Cover Letter Examples
• Attorney Cover Letter Examples
• Barista Cover Letter Examples
• Bartender Cover Letter Examples
• Business Cover Letter Examples
• Business Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• College Student Cover Letter Examples
• Computer Science Cover Letter Examples
• Construction Cover Letter Examples
• Consultant Cover Letter Examples
• Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
• Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• Data Entry Cover Letter Examples
• Dental Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Digital Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Finance Cover Letter Examples
• Graphic Design Cover Letter Examples
• Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
• Human Resources Cover Letter Examples
• IT Cover Letter Examples
• Law Cover Letter Examples
• Management Cover Letter Examples
• Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter Examples
• Physician Cover Letter Examples
• Project Manager Cover Letter Examples
• Receptionist Cover Letter Examples
• Retail Cover Letter Examples
• Sales Cover Letter Examples
• Social Work Cover Letter Examples
• Software Engineer Cover Letter Examples
• Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Teacher Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Team Leader Cover Letter Example

What is a Cover Letter? 

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume . 

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).

So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day. 

Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough. 

Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:

• Header - Input your contact information.
• Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
• Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
• The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
• The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
• Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."

#1. Pick the right template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?

You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!

#2. Add your contact details on the header

The best way to start your cover letter is through a header. 

Here’s what you want to include there:

• Phone Number
• Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
• Name of the company you’re applying to

Optionally, you can also include the following:

• Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
• Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your content portfolio site or blog.

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter. 

A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.

So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?

One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.

If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• To whom it may concern
• Dear [Department] Team

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking something like this: 

Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates. 

What you want to do, instead, is start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position. 

For example:

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 with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.

The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.

Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?

#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job

One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job. 

A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+. As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as 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

#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit

The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.

After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary . 

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. 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 culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?

Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter! 

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
• Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite. 
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible. 

#8. Write a formal closing

Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.

Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions in a cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

#9. Proofread your cover letter

Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included. 

The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos! 

For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article ! 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:

1. How do I write a simple cover letter? 

To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action). 

2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter? 

The three parts of a cover letter are: 

• The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph. 
• The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter. 
• The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.

3. What makes a great cover letter?

A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”

To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.

Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by. 

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .

Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.

And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.

If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles: 

• How to Write a Resume
• Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
• Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

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The 23 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

Published: December 14, 2023

I've sent plenty of cover letters throughout my career, so I know it isn't usually fun to write one. Fortunately, the cover letter examples I painstakingly gathered below show that it’s possible to have a little fun with your job search — and maybe even make yourself a better candidate in the process.

I was shocked upon learning 45% of job seekers don't include a cover letter when applying for a job. I definitely don't recommend following the crowd on this matter because your cover letter is a chance to tell the stories your resume only outlines.

It's an opportunity for you to highlight your creativity at the earliest stage of the recruitment process.

Are you ready to showcase your unique skills and experience? Or are you looking for more tips and cover letter inspiration?

Keep reading for 20+ cover letter examples, then check out tips for cover letter formatting and what makes a cover letter great .

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

• Standard Cover Letter Template
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

Cover Letter Examples

• Standard Cover Letter Example
• Data-Driven Cover Letter Sample
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Example
• The Cover Letter That Explains 'Why,' Not Just 'How'
• The 'We're Meant for Each Other' Cover Letter
• The Cover Letter with H.E.A.R.T.
• Short-and-Sweet Cover Letter Example
• The Short Story
• The Bare Bones Cover Letter
• The Breezy Follow-Up
• The Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
• The Internship Cover Letter
• The Brutally Honest Cover Letter
• The Pivot Cover Letter
• The Graphic Design Cover Letter
• Consulting Internship Cover Letter Example
• Nonprofit Referral Cover Letter Example
• General Email Inquiry Cover Letter Example
• Post-Phone-Call Cover Letter Example
• Mission-Driven Graduate Cover Letter Example
• Short Recommendation Cover Letter Example
• Professor or Research Position Cover Letter Example
• Director Cover Letter Example
• Editorial Cover Letter Example
• Promotion Cover Letter Example
• Law Cover Letter Example

Customizable Cover Letter Examples

In a hurry for a cover letter example you can download and customize? Check out the ones below from HubSpot’s cover letter template kit .

1. Standard Cover Letter Example

Download a Customizable Copy of This Cover Letter Example

This standard cover letter is among my favorite approaches because it hits all the right notes: It includes a space to give a brief summary of your experience, as well as a space to delve in-depth into the specific responsibilities of your current role.

You also have the chance to describe the challenges you’ve mastered in previous roles, showing that you’re capable of facing any problem that comes your way.

Why I Love It

I love this cover letter because it allows you to describe the high points of your career while still being professional, personalized, and succinct.

2. Data-Driven Cover Letter Sample

Numbers are worth a million words — or that’s how I think the saying should go (if only we could include pictures in cover letters).

Citing data and statistics about your achievements at your current company is an assured way to capture a hiring manager’s attention.

Over the years, I've learned most hiring managers don’t read the entire letter, so a bulleted summary of your achievements can be a powerful way to increase the effectiveness and scannability of your message.

I love this cover letter because it’s adaptable to any role. Even if you don’t work in a data-centric role, you can include any enumerable achievement.

If I worked in a creative industry, for instance, I could include the number of creative assets you designed for your current company.

3. Entry-Level Cover Letter Example

Many of us have had "first job jitters" (that's what I'm calling it) when applying for our first career opportunity.

However, my experience taught me to increase my chances of getting that first interview by including a cover letter that explains how my education can help me succeed in the role I applied for.

In fact, HubSpot staff writer Erica Santiago says highlighting her education was key to snagging her first role out of college.

"When I graduated from journalism school, I only had a couple of internships under my belt and maybe some writing clips — not enough to compete with most young professionals with more experience," she recalls.

"So, I highlighted the classes I took such as 'News Reporting and Writing' or 'Electronic News Gathering," she says, "And I explained the assignments I did and how they gave me real-world experience in interviewing and reporting."

She says that's how she got her first job as a digital journalist for WSVN in Miami.

If you need help understanding how to highlight your education in a cover letter, look no further than this example from HubSpot.

While other cover letter samples give experienced professionals the opportunity to share their experience at length, this one gives you the chance to describe your personal and professional attributes.

You can then convey how you can use your knowledge to help your target company reach its goals.

I love this cover letter because it’s easy and simple to use for a student who has little experience in their target industry — including those who haven’t yet completed an internship.

Looking for more? Download the entire kit below.

5 Professional Cover Letter Templates

Fill out the form to access your templates., best cover letter examples.

What does a good cover letter look like in practice, and how can you make yours stand out? I  found six examples from job seekers who decided to do things a bit differently.

Note: Some of these cover letters include real company names and NSFW language that I've covered up.

1. The Cover Letter That Explains 'Why,' Not Just 'How'

You may already know how to talk about how you’ll best execute a certain role in your cover letter. But there’s another question you might want to answer: Why the heck do you want to work here?

The Muse , a career guidance site, says that it’s often best to lead with the why — especially if it makes a good story.

I advise against blathering on and on, but a brief tale that illuminates your desire to work for that particular employer can really make you stand out.

Image Source

Here’s another instance of the power of personalization.

The author of this cover letter clearly has a passion for this prospective employer — the Chicago Cubs — and if she’s lying about it, well, I'm sure that would eventually be revealed in an interview.

Make sure your story is nonfiction and relatable according to each job. While I love a good tale of childhood baseball games, an introduction like this one probably wouldn’t be fitting in a cover letter for, say, a software company.

But a story of how the hours you spent playing with DOS games as a kid led to your passion for coding? Sure, I’d find that fitting.

If you’re really passionate about a particular job opening, think about where that deep interest is rooted. Then, tell your hiring manager about it in a few sentences.

Why This Is A Great Cover Letter

This example shows how effective personalization can be. The writer is passionate about the employer, drawing from her own childhood experience to communicate her enthusiasm.

Further reading: Sales Cover Letter Tips

2. The 'We're Meant for Each Other' Cover Letter

This cover letter example is a special one because it was submitted to us here at HubSpot. What does the letter do well? It makes a connection with us before we've even met the letter's author.

"Content Marketing Certified" shows the applicant has taken the content marketing certification course in our HubSpot Academy (you can take the same course here ).

Our "records" indicate he/she did indeed give an interview with us before — and was a HubSpot customer.

The cover letter sang references to a relationship we didn't even know we had with the candidate.

The letter ends with a charming pitch for why, despite him/her not getting hired previously, our interests complement each other this time around.

(Yes, the applicant was hired).

This cover letter example does an excellent job of building rapport with the employer. Despite not getting hired for previous roles they applied for at HubSpot, the writer conveys exactly why they are right for this role.

Read more: Customer Service Cover Letter Tips

3. The Cover Letter with H.E.A.R.T.

HubSpot has a lot of H.E.A.R.T. — Humble, Empathetic, Adaptable, Remarkable, Transparent.

Our Culture Code is the foundation of the company's culture, the driving force behind our mission to help millions grow better , and serves as the scaffolding for our hiring practices.

Recruiters at HubSpot look for applicants that demonstrate how they embody the Culture Code and job description, paying extra attention to cover letters that are super custom to HubSpot.

In another HubSpot submission, a HubSpot applicant writes about how she found out about HubSpot, why she likes the company, and how her professional experience aligns with H.E.A.R.T.

HubSpot's recruiting team was impressed with her dedication to the company and how she went beyond what was asked for by linking her portfolio in her closing paragraph.

Featured Resource: 5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Download our collection of 5 professional cover letter templates to help you summarize your professional journey and land your dream job – whether it's at your first or fifth company.

Short Cover Letter Examples

4. the short-and-sweet cover letter.

In 2009, David Silverman penned an article for Harvard Business Review titled, " The Best Cover Letter I Ever Received. " That letter has three complete sentences, as follows:

One might argue that this particular letter is less than outstanding, and I'll also admit it's an older example.

It’s brief, to say the least, and the author doesn’t go into a ton of detail about what makes him or her qualified for the job in question.

But that’s what Silverman likes about it — the fact that the applicant only included the pieces of information that would matter the most to the recipient.

"The writer of this letter took the time to think through what would be relevant to me," writes Silverman. "Instead of scattering lots of facts in hopes that one was relevant, the candidate offered up an opinion as to which experiences I should focus on."

When you apply for a job, start by determining two things:

• Who might oversee the role — that’s often included in the description, under "reports to." Address your letter to that individual.
• Figure out what problems this role is meant to solve for that person. Then, concisely phrase in your cover letter how and why your experience can and will resolve those problems.

The key to this standout cover letter is research.

By looking into who you’ll be reporting to and learning more about that person’s leadership style, you’ll be better prepared to tailor your cover letter to focus on how you can create solutions for them.

Read here for more tips on how to land your dream job .

5. The Short Story

Basha Coleman began her cover letter with a short story. The goal of this short story is two-fold:

• Detail the experience she already has with the organization.
• Stand out to the hiring team.

I notice her short story follows a typical narrative arc: It has a conflict/obstacle, a turning point, and a positive outcome, all created with a goal to emphasize a theme or point.

In this case, Coleman is emphasizing her existing affinity with the brand and her triumphs within the program so that she can continue on her career path.

Like the second example in our list, this cover letter does an excellent job of conveying the applicant’s existing affinity for the brand. If you are applying to a company you love, don’t be shy about showing it and explaining why.

6. The Bare Bones Cover Letter

In today's job market, cover letters aren't always necessary. Even though many recruiters won't ask for or even read them, cover letters can still be effective and convey personality to a reader.

Writing a strong cover letter can help you better convey your interest in the position and company.

This template from The Balance Careers puts together the essential components of a short cover letter: excitement about the position, your qualifications, and a call-to-action for the recruiter to follow up with you.

Combining these central aspects in a well-written, compelling narrative will go a long way in convincing readers to hire you.

This letter is organized and concise. The inclusion of bullet points to highlight key skills and help the recruiter skim the document is a nice touch.

Check out this post for more useful cover letter tips .

7. The Breezy Follow-Up

In this cover letter, Amanda Edens is following the instructions the hiring manager gave by forwarding an email with resume and writing samples attached.

This short cover letter is the result. I especially admire how she uses casual and breezy language to convey personality and enthusiasm, and she keeps her paragraphs succinct.

Not only does Amanda include links to relevant writing samples that are live on the web, but she also closes with a strong final paragraph that:

• Summarizes the expertise she has relevant to the posting
• Emphasizes that she doesn't want to simply get a job but rather help the organization accomplish their goals
• The reader gets everything they need in an organized and thoughtful manner.

8. The Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

In this cover letter the candidate, Michelle, plays up her prior music industry experience to build a connection with Epic Music Group. If you have specific industry experience for the role you are applying for, be sure to highlight that.

It’s clear that she’s passionate about not only the music industry, but Epic as a whole.

She’s done so much research on the company that she knows what software programs they use, and happens to be proficient in it to help convey value to the hiring manager.

This example further illustrates the importance of research.

Make sure you understand the culture of the company to which you’re applying before you send a completely unfiltered cover letter — if you don’t, there’s a good chance it’ll completely miss the mark.

In just three short paragraphs, the applicant uses their company research to drive home why they are the perfect fit for the role — emphasizing industry experience as well as software knowledge specific to the company.

All of this communicates that she’d be able to start with very few hiccups while getting up to speed.

Further reading: 15 Cover Letter Templates

9. The Internship Cover Letter

Maybe you’re just getting started in your career and looking to land the right internship to gain experience in your field.

In this case, you’ll need to highlight more of your educational background and transferable skills since you won’t have as much professional experience to highlight.

The cover letter above is a great example of how to emphasize your skills and accomplishments when applying to internships or entry-level positions. A few things the applicant does well:

• Highlights relevant extracurriculars and affinity networks. In this case, the applicant is applying for a business analyst position, so mentioning their involvement in a FinTech group makes sense.
• Previous internships in relevant fields: Our applicant points out that they’ve interned as a Business Analyst at another firm. Pointing out that they’ve done the role before will help make their case for fit.
• Highlight other useful skills: This applicant is fluent in both English and German. If an international company or an organization needs bilingual support, knowing multiple languages is an asset.

This cover letter example illustrates how you can leverage your education and background to get the gig even when you don’t have much working experience. Highlighting previous internships or experience in related fields can go a long way in convincing hiring managers you’re the perfect candidate for the role.

Further reading for recent graduates:

• How to Find a Job After College
• Writing a Cover Letter for an Internship

Creative Cover Letter Examples

10. the brutally honest cover letter.

Then, there are the occasions when your future boss might appreciate honesty — in its purest form.

Former Livestream CEO Jesse Hertzberg, by his own admission, is one of those people, which might be why he called this example " the best cover letter " (which he received while he was with Squarespace):

As Hertzberg says in the blog post elaborating on this excerpt — it’s not appropriate for every job or company.

But if you happen to be sure that the corporate culture of this prospective employer gets a kick out of a complete lack of filter, then there’s a chance that the hiring manager might appreciate your candor.

"Remember that I'm reading these all day long," Hertzberg writes. "You need to quickly convince me I should keep reading. You need to stand out."

The applicant did their research on the company’s culture and executed this cover letter flawlessly. It’s funny and shows off the applicant’s personality all while making it clear why they are a good fit for the role.

Further reading:

• How to Stand Out and Get Hired at Your Dream Company
• How to Find Your Dream Job

11. The Pivot Cover Letter

Making a career switch? Your cover letter can be an excellent opportunity for you to explain the reasoning behind your career change and how your transferable skills qualify you for the role.

It’s clean but effective.

Since the role she is applying for is more visual, it’s important to both show and tell why you’re a good fit.

This cover letter strikes the perfect balance between creativity and simplicity in design while putting the applicant's career change into context.

The copy is clean, with a creative font choice that isn’t distracting from the content, but still demonstrates the applicant’s knack for design.

12. The Graphic Design Cover Letter

When applying for more creative roles, the design of your cover letter can say just as much as the words on the page. Take the graphic designer letter example below.

It’s got so much going for it:

• Pop of color
• Clean layout
• Interesting fonts

Besides the style elements, this example also doesn’t skimp on the key skills recruiters are looking for. Using metrics, the applicant proves their value and why they would be a great fit.

This cover letter thoroughly conveys the applicant’s skills and qualifications using a variety of visual elements and emphasizing their greatest achievements.

Pro tip: If you're applying for a graphic design job, share a link to your graphic design portfolio website , even if it's not an application requirement.

Job Cover Letter Examples

Next up, let’s go over some classic cover letter examples for jobs, especially if you’re applying to internships or only have a few years of experience.

The below cover letters follow the golden rules and don’t deviate too much from the standard — which is ideal if you’re applying to positions in more traditional industries.

13. Consulting Internship Cover Letter Example

Many internship applicants are early on in their careers or are still in college. That means they’ve yet to gather enough experience to offer tangible proof of their ability to do the job.

That means that a cover letter is the place where an internship applicant can shine.

This cover letter example highlights the applicant’s skills in a bullet-point format. That makes it easier for an overburdened hiring manager to get the essence of her points, quickly, if they’re only skimming cover letters.

Not only that, but this applicant personalized the letter in every single sentence. She shares information about her prior conversations with some of the company’s employees and mentions the company’s name at every turn.

While she only has one prior consulting job, she deftly mentions the skills she developed in that role and ties them into her desired position at Quantcast Product Group.

This cover letter example does a fantastic job advertising the applicant’s soft skills in a highly scannable format — while still going heavy on the personalization.

Don’t be shy to lightly play with formatting to get your point across and to imbue the letter with your passion for a company.

14. Nonprofit Referral Cover Letter Example

This cover letter example for a nonprofit job hits the ground running by right away inserting the name of one of the nonprofit’s Superintendents.

That’s an excellent way to get a recruiter’s attention and make you stand out from the slush pile, even if you’re only just out of school, as is the case for this applicant.

If you’ve received an internal recommendation for a position, you’d be wise to open your letter with that information. Don’t worry about it feeling too stilted or strange — remember, hiring managers only skim letters.

Your goal is to make sure they get information about you that they otherwise won’t get from your resume.

With only three full paragraphs, this cover letter example is short, sweet, and to the point. No time is wasted, and it also goes over the critical basics, such as skills and experience.

This nonprofit cover letter includes a recommendation from an internal employee at the target organization, making it more likely to stand out from the slush pile.

I  also love that it doesn’t skimp on the basics, such as skills, enthusiasm, and experience.

15. General Email Inquiry Cover Letter Example

Even if a job opportunity isn’t available at an organization yet, it doesn’t mean that there won’t be. You can always send a general inquiry cover letter, like the one in this example.

This email cover letter for a political campaign internship is short and sweet, but includes the critical information the campaign coordinator needs to consider the applicant for any new positions that may open up.

The best part about this cover letter is that it can be easily customized from one political campaign employer to the next.

While it does include a level of personalization, it’s brief and can be easily changed to address the specific political candidate.

When sending general inquiries like this one, it’s essential to make the personalization aspect as pain-free as possible for yourself. That may mean including only one sentence or two, knowing that a general inquiry might not be replied to.

Setting up customized email signatures is also highly recommended. They should include your name, job title, and ideally links to your website or social accounts as well as your headshot.

These add a professional touch and help you stand out from other cover letters in the recipient’s inbox. At the same time, the headshot makes you easier to remember in case a job position becomes available, while the website or social links allow recruiters to learn more relevant details about you.  

This email cover letter example hits all the right notes while keeping it brief and to-the-point. While we don’t recommend choosing this format for a formal cover letter, it works if you’re sending a general inquiry to an employer over email.

It’s also a good example to follow if you’re still in college or have very little experience.

Read more: How to Write a Letter of Interest

16. Post-Phone-Call Cover Letter Example

If you get a phone call from a potential employer and they invite you to send your resume, pat yourself on the back — that is such a win. In your cover letter, be sure to mention that right away, like this example does.

A hiring manager or an executive at a company likely has a lot of tasks on their plate, which means that they may forget about your call from one week to the next.

That is totally okay, which is why this example starts with a reminder that the applicant and the letter recipient spoke back on January 31st. It also has a few more details about why they started speaking in the first place.

Aside from leveraging the phone call that’s already occurred, this cover letter also does an excellent job explaining why the applicant is an ideal choice for the job.

It goes into detail about skills and previous experience with a high level of enthusiasm, and includes a promise to follow up at the end.

This cover letter example includes two things that will immediately draw my attention: A phone call they’ve already had, and a mutual contact at their organization.

The job and internship search can be grueling; never be afraid to use everything you have at your disposal to improve your standing over other applicants.

Read more: How to Start a Cover Letter

17. Mission-Driven Graduate Cover Letter Example

This cover letter example from a recent B.A. graduate wowed me from the first sentence.

The applicant right away explains her attained degree and her specific career interests, then dives into the aspects of her experience that make her such a great candidate.

It's so personalized to the employer’s own mission that it’s difficult to stop reading it.

Even if the hiring manager isn’t a science or health professional, they would be able to effectively gauge the applicant’s suitability for the role by the expertise she shows in her cover letter alone.

The applicant explains at length why she’s excited to work for that specific hospital. The organization serves Aboriginal populations, which aligns with her own values and research interests.

In the last paragraph, she summarizes what she knows about the employer in one sentence, then describes how each of her experiences supports the employer’s mission.

That is an exceedingly clever and meaningful way to align yourself with an organization at a deeper level.

If you’re applying to a mission-driven organization, don’t be shy about showing your excitement and expertise. You don’t need a lot of experience to show that your values align with those of your target organization.

This cover letter example is especially good inspiration if you’re making a career change, have only just a few internships under your belt, or are graduating from college.

18. Short Recommendation Cover Letter Example

Referral or recommendation cover letters don’t need to be too long, and this is a great example of that. It immediately leverages a mutual connection at the company.

The mutual connection recommended that the applicant contact the hiring manager for a role, which is a piece of information I  always recommend you frontload in your letter.

This specific cover letter comes from an applicant with little experience, making it a good example to follow if you’re switching careers or just out of college.

Instead of talking about their experience, the applicant uses anecdotal evidence to convey their enthusiasm for working at that company.

The writer also goes over their most salient skills, such as being able to speak multiple languages. They also explain how their degree directly applies to the target role.

I  love that the candidate highlights their leadership abilities and makes that an effective selling point for being hired.

This cover letter doesn’t go on for too long, which we love. It’s simple and sweet and provides all the information the hiring manager needs to look more closely at the applicant’s resume and make an interviewing decision.

19. Professor or Research Position Cover Letter Example

Academic or research position cover letters might require a little more information than the typical cover letter — and this is one such example. Why is it okay to go a little longer?

Because the letter is not only a way to supplement the PhD candidate’s academic CV, but to provide a writing sample for the search committee.

I love this cover letter because it expresses the candidate’s enthusiasm for teaching and explains her instructional ethos, such as providing out-of-the-classroom opportunities, championing communication, and encouraging students to step out of their comfort zone.

The applicant also suggests courses she may be able to teach at the target institution, and expresses her interest in developing new courses as needed.

She also suggests how she can enhance the college’s extracurricular programming by offering study abroad courses, which shows not just an interest in teaching but adding to the school’s overall culture.

While this letter goes for a little longer than recommended, it serves as a fantastic writing sample and explains the applicant’s research background at length.

If you’re applying to academic or research roles, don’t be afraid to go into detail about what most excites you in terms of research interests.

20. Director Cover Letter Example

This cover letter example — for a Director of Catering position at a university — doesn’t waste any time.

The applicant right away says that they’re a strong candidate for the role, then jumps right into three salient qualifications that make him a great fit.

I love how the applicant uses bullet points and bold text to guide an overburdened hiring manager through the cover letter — and to give them permission to scan it, if needed.

If the hiring manager would like more information or actual examples of the skills, they merely need to read the rest of the bullet point paragraph.

As mentioned, light formatting can be beneficial to your cover letter, as it draws the recruiter’s eyes and prevents them from having to fish for the information they’re looking for.

This short, sweet cover letter includes the critical information a hiring manager or high-level executive needs to make an interview decision.

I  love the use of formatting that doesn’t stray too much from regular cover letter conventions, and I  like that the applicant kept all other paragraphs extremely brief.

21. Editorial Cover Letter Example

Applying for an editorial or journalistic position? Like a cover letter example I  shared earlier, you can take a more storytelling approach to capture the hiring manager’s attention.

This cover letter example does that effectively by telling an anecdote that directly mentions the newspaper where they’d like to work.

This immediately draws the reader in and tells them that this application isn’t random at all; the applicant would like to work at the newspaper because they’ve read it every morning.

Not only that, but they have a favorite reporter on the newspaper’s staff. The applicant then jumps into the specific reason they want to take an editorial position at the Baltimore Sun.

The cover letter includes all pertinent information, such as how previous positions have equipped the applicant to take on this job. It closes with enthusiasm after keeping the reader rapt every step of the way.

The applicant uses storytelling to — you guessed it — apply for a position that needs storytelling skills. If you’re applying for a data-driven position or a graphic design position, why not showcase those skills in the cover letter itself?

I  like that this letter doesn’t diverge too much from cover letter conventions while still differentiating itself.

22. Promotion Cover Letter Example

In this cover letter example, the applicant already works for the employer and wishes to apply for the next position to move up in their career.

I  like that the letter cites the applicant’s extensive knowledge of the organization, which will no doubt give them an advantage over external applicants.

Not only that, but the applicant also references their experience before they started working at the employer and uses that information to make their candidacy even more desirable.

Lastly, this letter includes a healthy level of enthusiasm for the university and the position — something that is never extra in a cover letter.

This cover letter example does an excellent job showing the candidate’s knowledge of their current organization while stating why they’re a natural fit for the promotion.

Plus, the letter includes information on the applicant’s relevant activities outside of work — if you’re involved in any organizations that might help you do your job better, be sure to include them.

23. Law Cover Letter Example

This law cover letter example jumps right into personalization, a bold move that will serve you well if you’re genuinely interested in a company and want to stand out.

The applicant cites the recipient’s recent article on bond litigation, then ties that into the role they’d like to get at the law firm.

The applicant then goes into his skills and the feedback he’s received from past managers. This is an excellent way to introduce your skills without sounding dry — or even unfounded.

By citing positive feedback you’ve received, you’ll imply that others have praised you for having those skills, and that you’re not only "tooting your own horn."

Pro-Tip: In cover letters, it’s absolutely okay to toot your own horn — that’s what they’re for. But if you can cite others’ remarks, that also helps.)

At just two and a half paragraphs, this letter is exceedingly short but no less effective. It’s an excellent example of how to personalize your letter quickly while still conveying the essentials of a cover letter.

This short cover letter example keeps it brief while still creating high impact. The applicant personalizes the letter immediately, cites external feedback, and conveys enthusiasm.

This letter proves you don’t need to write a novel about an employer to sway the hiring manager into giving you an interview.

Now that I've shown you some excellent examples, let's talk about how you can create the best cover letter for your dream job.

What is a good cover letter?

A cover letter is used to show your interest in the role, passion for the company, and the impact you've had in previous positions. Good cover letters should include a standout opening, relevant skills and qualifications, and a strong finish with a call-to-action — all within one page and unique to each application.

What’s on a cover letter?

Before you start writing your cover letter, let's cover a few basic must-haves you'll want to include. If you’re looking for more detailed instructions, check out this guide to writing a cover letter .

Add a simple, but pleasant greeting to address the recruiter or hiring manager.

Learn more:

• Dear Sir or Madam Alternatives
• Cover Letter Greetings

Write a catchy introduction that explains why you’re interested in the role.

• How to Write an Introduction
• Tips for Writing a Good Introduction Sentence

Work Experience

This is the heart of your cover letter. It outlines your relevant experience and why you’d be a great fit for the role. You can highlight special skills, experiences, professional achievements, or education to help make your case.

• How to Write About Your Professional Background
• Professional Bio Examples
• LinkedIn Bio Examples

In this paragraph, add a call-to-action by expressing interest in an interview. Offer your contact information and sign off.

• Email Closing Line Examples
• Tips for Writing Conclusions

What does a cover letter look like?

Besides showing off your skills and qualifications, cover letters give you the opportunity to present a clear, concise, and compelling writing sample. It shows off your personality and your ability to convey ideas.

That's a lot of information to include on a single page, so it can help to have a clear structure to start with.

Check out our fillable cover letter templates to see how you should organize the content of your cover letter.

What makes a great cover letter?

A cover letter is personal, but it also needs to help you reach a goal and help the hiring team understand how you could perform that role with their company. This complexity can make cover letters really tough to write.

Because cover letters are difficult to write, many come off as boring, basic, or confusing for hiring managers to read. But the tips below about the qualities that make a cover letter great can help you take your cover letter from basic to bright.

Start with this quick video, then keep reading for more tips:

Personalized Introduction

Begin with an introduction that's personal. It should capture the reader's attention and address your recipient by name. Then, add a compelling opening sentence that emphasizes your interest in the specific role.

Helpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

In an increasingly digitized world, where customer-centric strategies are vital for business success, I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"To Whom it May Concern,

I am applying for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot. I have some experience in marketing and can help your clients grow their businesses."

Relevant Professional Experience

It can be tempting to use the same cover letter for every job. After all, it's about your experience, isn't it? But it's not enough to rephrase the work history in your resume.

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking to fill a specific role, so you need to show how your experience translates to their unique needs.

So, the body of a great cover letter should showcase the specific professional experiences that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Emphasize your accomplishments and skills that directly relate to what the job needs.

To speed up this part of the cover letter writing process, start by creating a list of your transferable skills . Drafting this list can help you quickly focus on the skills to highlight in your cover letter.

Then, use AI tools to summarize job descriptions and narrow in on where your experience and the needs of the role you're applying for overlap. This post is full of useful AI assistant tools if you're new to AI.

Helpful Cover Letter Experience:

"At [Company Name], I had the opportunity to assist a global ecommerce retailer in enhancing their online customer experience. By conducting in-depth market research and customer journey mapping, I identified pain points and areas of improvement in their website navigation and user interface."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Experience:

"I also worked with an ecommerce retailer to improve the customer experience. We did some surveys and training, and they were happy with the results."

Useful Examples

To make your cover letter stand out, add specific examples that show how you've solved problems or gotten results in past roles.

Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, using data to give the reader a clear understanding of your impact.

Helpful Cover Letter Example:

"I lead a team of five content writers while increasing website traffic by 18% year-over-year."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Example:

"I have a great track record of leadership and achieving fantastic results."

Research and Company Knowledge

Hiring teams aren't hiring anyone with the skills to do the job. They're hiring a person they'll work alongside at their specific company.

So, to show that you're not just looking for any job anywhere, share your knowledge of the company's industry, values, and culture in your cover letter.

Spend some time on the company website and take notes on what makes this business interesting to you and why you would want to work there.

Then, explain how your skills align with the company's mission and goals and explain how you could add to their chances of success. This will showcase your interest in the company and help them see if you are a good cultural fit.

Helpful Cover Letter Research:

"I was particularly drawn to HubSpot not only for its industry-leading solutions but also for its exceptional company culture. HubSpot's commitment to employee development and fostering a collaborative environment is evident in its recognition as a top workplace consistently. I strongly believe that my passion for continuous learning, self-motivation, and dedication to contributing to a team will make me a valuable asset to HubSpot."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Research:

"I have been inspired by HubSpot's commitment to inbound marketing and its comprehensive suite of solutions. HubSpot's dedication to providing valuable content and fostering meaningful relationships aligns with my own values and aspirations."

Clear Writing

Your cover letter needs to pack in a lot of important information. But it's also important that your cover letter is clear and concise.

To accomplish this, use professional but easy-to-understand language. Be sure to remove any grammar or spelling errors and avoid lengthy paragraphs and avoid jargon or overly technical language.

You may also want to use bullet points to make your letter easier to skim. Then, proofread your cover letter for clarity or ask a friend to proofread it for you.

• Guide to Becoming a Better Writer
• Tips for Simplifying Your Writing

Helpful Cover Letter Writing:

"In addition to my academic accomplishments, I gained valuable practical experience through internships at respected law firms.

Working alongside experienced attorneys, I assisted in providing legal support to clients. This hands-on experience helped me develop a deep understanding of client needs and enhanced my ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts in a straightforward manner."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Writing:

"Furthermore, as a complement to my academic accomplishments, I have garnered invaluable practical experience through internships at esteemed law firms.

Throughout these placements, I actively collaborated with seasoned attorneys to conduct due diligence and furnish clients with comprehensive legal support. Notably, these experiences fostered a profound comprehension of client necessities, whilst honing my legal acumen to articulately convey intricate legal principles within a lucid and concise framework, adhering to applicable precedents and statutes of limitations."

Genuine Interest and Enthusiasm

Find ways to convey your passion for the role and how excited you are to contribute to the company you're applying to. At the same time, make sure your interest feels authentic and outline how it aligns with your career goals.

Your ultimate goal is an enthusiastic letter that feels honest and leaves a lasting positive impression.

Showing excitement in writing doesn't come naturally for everyone. A few tips that can help you boost the genuine enthusiasm in your letter:

• Record audio of yourself speaking about the role, then use voice-to-text technology to transcribe and add these sections to your letter.
• Choose your words carefully .
• Write in active voice.

Helpful Cover Letter Tone:

"I am genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Company/Organization Name] as an accountant. My combination of technical proficiency, eagerness to learn, and strong attention to detail make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident that my dedication, reliability, and passion for accounting will contribute to the continued success of your organization."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Tone:

"Honestly, I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to reconciliations, financial statement analysis, and tax regulations! Engaging in spirited discussions with professors and classmates has allowed me to foster an unbreakable bond with the fascinating world of accounting, and I'm positively bursting with enthusiasm at the prospect of applying my skills in a professional setting."

Memorable Conclusion

End your cover letter on a strong note. Summarize your top qualifications, restate your interest in the position, and express your interest in future communication.

Then, thank your reader for their time and consideration and include your contact information for easy follow-up.

To make your conclusion memorable, think about what parts of your letter you'd most like the hiring manager to keep top of mind. Then, consider your word choice and phrasing. If you're feeling stuck, this list of ways to close an email can help.

Helpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of Greenpeace. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Together, let's make a lasting impact on our planet.

[Your Name]"

Unhelpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further and how I can contribute to Greenpeace's mission. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

I’d like to add another stage to the job search: experimentation.

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search.

But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data I’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.

I certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will.

So, get inspired by these examples and templates. Write an incredible cover letter that shows the hiring team at your dream job exactly who you are.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness. This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

Don't forget to share this post!

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How to write a cover letter for your CV

If you want to land the best jobs, you need to accompany your CV with a strong cover letter.

In this guide, I will show you how to write a cover letter that will get you noticed by employers and ensure you land plenty of interviews.

Starting with a basic overview…

To write an effective cover letter you must:

• Apply a professional format and layout
• Address the recipient by name
• Explain why you are suitable for the job you are applying for
• Explain why you are applying for the job
• Encourage the recruiter to open your CV

What is a cover letter?

Before you delve into this guide, it’s important to understand what a cover letter is, and what it’s purpose is.

Having a good understanding of these 2 factors will help you to create a really effective cover letter.

A cover letter is simply an introductory note which you send to recruiters and employers, when sending your CV

Here’s an example of a typical cover letter

What’s the purpose of a cover letter?

The purpose of your cover letter is to do the following 3 things;

• Introduce yourself
• Build rapport with the recruiter or employer
• Encourage them to open your CV

Cover letter format

Before you start to write your cover letter, you need to understand the basics of formatting one, and the structure to follow.

Using the correct format will ensure that your cover letter is easy for busy recruiters to read, and that you can highlight the important information that they want to see.

Use the following tips to format and layout your CV for best results.

Write your cover letter in the body of your message or email

The number one cover letter formatting rule to remember is, write your cover letter in the body of your email (or messaging box if you are sending via a job website ).

Never attach your cover letter as a separate document.

You want your cover letter to be instantly visible to recruiters and employers, form the moment they open your application.

If you attach it separately, you simply slowing down the process, and run the risk of having your application ignored (especially if it takes a long time for the document to open).

So, always write your cover letter in the body of your application message if you want to make an instant connection with the recipient.

Quick tip: If you are writing your cover letter in an email, use an eye-catching subject line that tailors your skills to the jobs. E.g. Developer with 5 years web app experience

Cover letter layout

Every cover letter will be different of course, but try to stick to this basic layout as much as possible, in order to provide the right information, in a logical order.

This will help you to build rapport with readers, and sell yourself to them in the short window of their attention you have.

Start by addressing the recipient

The first thing you need to do in your cover letter, is address the person you are approaching.

Follow with a friendly greeting

You want to appear professional when applying for jobs, but you also need to be friendly and personable.

So, follow with a friendly greeting such as;

• Hope you’re well
• I hope this email finds you well

Always remember that your message will be read by a real person, and they will appreciate being treated well.

Explain which job you are applying for

Once you’ve greeted and warmed up the recruiter with a friendly opening, it’s time to get to the point.

Let the recruiter know exactly which job you are applying for.

Remember that some recruiters will be working scores of vacancies, so be as specific as you can.

Explain why you are suitable for the job

In the body of your cover letter, you should provide a brief explanation of what makes you suitable for the job you are applying for.

This is ultimately what will encourage a recruiter or hiring manager to open your CV .

I will cover how to do this in more detail in the “W hat to include in a cover letter ” section of the guide.

Sign off in a friendly and professional manner

Remembering that your cover letter is a means of communication with the person receiving it – sign off in a friendly yet professional way.

Use a term like;

• Kind regards
• Look forward to hearing from you

Finish with a professional signature

Finally, at the very bottom of your cover letter, add a professional signature .

This will ensure it looks professional, and provide the reader with instant access to your contact details.

Quick tip: If you are writing a cover letter in email, format your signature to make it look extra-professional, and save it as your default signature for all of your outgoing mails.

How to start a cover letter

To start a cover letter, you should always aim to address the recipient by name – this is the best way to start building rapport.

But you are probably thinking, “How do I find their name??”

There are a few ways you can find the name of the person handling the vacancy

• On the job advert – sometimes the name and email address will be on the job advert itself
• Company website – If you’re applying directly to a company, you can often find the recruitment team or head of department on the company About us section
• LinkedIn – If you can determine the company and team for the vacancy, a search on LinkedIn can often uncover the most likely person to be handling the applications.

“What if I can’t find a name?”

If you can’t find a name, don’t panic – you won’t always be able to.

Simply address the recruiter with the word “Hi” – that’s all you can do in that instance.

Don’t use the phrase “ Dear sir or madam” – It’s very old-fashioned and impersonal.

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be short and sweet.

The purpose of a cover letter, is simply to persuade recruiters to open your CV, so it doesn’t need to be long .

You only need 3 – 6 sentences to write a good cover letter.

You have to bear in mind that recruiters and hiring managers are busy people, so you need to move them on to opening your CV quickly – or you might lose their attention.

What to include in a cover letter

The content you include in your cover letter will determine whether or not the recruiter is impressed by you, and if they will go on to open your CV.

So, it’s crucial that you include the information they want to see.

Here’s what to include…

Firstly, read the job advert properly

Before you start writing your cover letter, you must ensure that you understand what the recruiter wants from applicants.

Study the job advert carefully, and pick out the most important candidate requirements.

Focus mainly on hard skills such as languages, IT systems, industry experience etc.

Don’t focus on personal skills (such as adaptability, teamwork etc,) as they are needed for most jobs and won’t make you stand out.

Once you know what the recruiter wants from a successful candidate, try to reflect those attributes when writing the below points.

Industry skills

If you’re an experienced candidate, employers will mainly be interested in the work you have done in your industry, tools you are familiar with, type of projects you have worked on etc. so make these a focal point of your cover letter.

If you are less experienced (like a graduate or school leaver) focus on adding transferable skills from your studies, that can be carried over to the workplace.

Length of experience

Recruiters will need to know how much experience you have.

• Are you a graduate?
• Senior with 15 years of experience?

Qualifications

If the role you are applying for requires certain qualifications, then it’s crucial to mention them in your cover letter.

However, if the job advert doesn’t ask for them, or you simply know qualifications aren’t important to perform the role – then you can leave them out.

What you are currently doing

Recruiters will want to know what your current situation is, so be sure to inform them.

• Are you currently working in a similar role?
• Have you just left school?
• Are you immediately available, or do you have to work notice?

Your motivation for applying

One question that recruiters will often ask when they receive an application is, “ why is this person applying for the role ?”

And you need to answer that question in your cover letter.

Your reasons for applying should be positive, and suggest that you are looking to make a firm commitment to the employer.

Do write:  “After spending 2 years as senior manager at my current firm, I am looking to take a step up to manage a bigger team in a more specialist market”

Don’t write:  “ I’ve recently been fired from my old job, so I need a new one quickly”

Results you’ve achieved for employers

If you’re an experienced candidate, it’s a good idea to allude to the kind of results you have achieved for your current or previous employers.

Maybe you have;

• Saved them money
• Brought on new customers
• Improved processes
• Made plenty of sales

Only give an overview in your cover letter to keep things brief – save the detail for your CV .

How to end a cover letter

To end a cover letter , you should do 2 things; provide a strong call-to-action, and sign of professionally.

Provide a strong call to action

What is a call to action?

It’s simply a request to the reader to take a specific action…

In the case of your cover letter, the action you want the recruiter to take is open your CV.

So it can be helpful to write a line like,

“Please find my CV attached” near the bottom of your cover letter, to encourage readers to do so.

Sign off professionally

Finish your cover letter with a friendly term such as, “kind regards” followed by your name.

Then add a professional signature to the bottom, like the one below;

This makes the cover letter look professional and ensures that recruiters have;

• Your full name
• Phone number
• Email address

Cover letter samples

To give you some ideas and inspiration for writing your cover letter, here are 6  example cover letters .

Customer service cover letter

This customer service cover letter is short and to-the-point – it quickly delivers a host of reasons why this candidate would be valuable in a customer service role.

See also: sales assistant cover letter example

Finance cover letter

This cover letter outlines the candidate’s finance knowledge, and how they could apply it in the workplace

Graduate cover letter

Graduate’s cover letters are a little longer than most, as they don’t have as much experience, so need to describe their education and transferable skills.

Sales cover letter

This cover letter boasts the candidate’s ability to make sales and drive revenue.

Project management cover letter

An overview of the candidate’s project manager skills and the types of projects they deliver, are enough to entice recruiters here.

Teacher cover letter

This teacher cover letter provides a brief synopsis of the candidate’s teaching abilities and the types of lessons they teach.

Cover letter mistakes

When writing your cover letter, be sure to avoid some of these common mistakes…

Don’t attach your cover letter as a separate document

You want the contents of your cover letter to instantly greet and connect with the recruiter opening it – so attaching it as separate document will slow that process down.

It doesn’t make sense to attach it as a separate document when you can write in the body of your email or message.

Don’t write a whole side of A4

Your cover letter should be a brief introduction and overview of your suitability for the job.

If you write too much, you risk boring the reader and they might skip past your application.

Save the in-depth details for your CV.

Don’t copy and paste the same cover letter

When your applying for lots of jobs, it can be tempting to simply copy and paste your cover letter into every application.

Whilst this will save you time, it will have a negative effect on your applications.

If you don’t take the time to tailor your cover letter for every job, it’s likely that you will miss some of the key requirements for each job, and therefore you will not make as good as impression as you could have.

It’s OK to work from a template, to keep the structure and some important points that you might repeat for most applications – but always tailor each cover letter to the job spec, for best results.

Don’t use “Dear sir or Madam”

This greeting many have worked well in the 1800’s, but it’s dated and impersonal now.

A simple “Hi” is a friendly and professional way to start your cover letter nowadays.

How to write a cover letter – conclusion

Your cover letter is a crucial tool in the quest to land interviews in the job market.

If you follow the advice above, you should be able to create a concise and powerful cover letter that will excite recruiters, and take you one step closer to landing that dream job

Good luck with your job search!

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Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

Free Professional Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips

Career expert

A cover letter that’s well-written and tailored for the position you want to get is an essential part of any job application.

A properly prepared resume is key for making a good first impression on potential employers. Additionally, it’s worth noting that at least 10% of all recruiters also expect candidates to submit a cover letter along with their resume.

Make sure yours stands out perfectly for the role you’re seeking by using our professional examples below along with our cover letter builder.

Choose Your Cover Letter Sample

Discover our sample cover letters for job applications and find out the best tips and advice.

• Administrative Assistant
• Engineering
• Receptionist
• Dental Assistant
• Executive Assistant
• Flight Attendant
• Business Analyst
• Software Engineer
• Customer Service
• Sales Associate
• Data Entry Clerk
• Property Manager
• Esthetician
• Office Manager
• Software Developer
• Event Coordinator
• Office Assistant
• Elementary Teacher
• Operations Manager
• Medical Receptionist
• Bank Teller
• Personal Assistant
• Phlebotomist
• Mechanical Engineer
• Pharmacy Technician

Examples of Cover Letters

There’s more than one way to format and prepare a letter . Depending on the type of job you’re targeting and your level of experience , you have several options to choose from.

Check out our article on how to write a cover letter for more useful tips and advice to help you write yours from scratch.

Get Started With a Simple Cover Letter

Little-to-no professional experience? Don’t worry! You can still create a cover letter that’s simple but effective. Use your letter to highlight your most employable features and get started on your career journey.

Dear Adrian,

I am writing to apply for the Customs Broker position at Geoplex Inc. as posted on LinkedIn.com. I am a qualified and fully licensed broker, with over 4 years of experience and an exemplary history of managing drilling machinery imports.

I was particularly interested in the position with Geoplex, as I share in the company values of growth and innovation. Working with Benson LLC, my current organization, I’ve overseen a 12% cut in costs, as well as ensuring the standards of compliance expected by the US CBP.

Furthermore, I’ve developed a reputation for coming up with exceptional solutions to problems. This has been an especially vital skill in my current role, especially when resolving any factors arising from clearance and deliveries.

I am eager to continue my upward trajectory in a new position and would relish the opportunity to make that happen with Geoplex Inc. Please find enclosed my resume, which provides additional detail on my skills and experience as well as my complete contact information.

Please feel free to reach out to me at your leisure via my personal number or email address. I look forward to speaking to you further regarding the position.

Connie Barnes

What Makes This a Strong Simple Cover Letter?

A simple cover letter allows you to convey a lot of information fast with little excess detail. Done well, this type of cover letter gives you an edge over the competition, in a concise and focused manner.

Show why you’re suitable

In this example, the applicant uses a polite greeting and gives all their contact details. Importantly, they use the first paragraph to quickly outline interest in the job and explain why they’d be suitable .

This allows you as the candidate to show that you have a  genuine enthusiasm for applying . You can then dedicate the rest of the initial opening to offering some tidbits of information that will further motivate the recruiter to keep reading.

Learn the basics about  writing addresses on cover letters  so you can plan what information to include.

Showcase your achievements

In the next part of the document, our writer has added some key examples of how they made a difference in their last job. They’ve demonstrated a little about the essential tasks they did and focused on the results they achieved in doing so.

Get them to read your resume

To finish things off, they have reiterated their enthusiasm for the role and have gradually started to draw the conversation towards the possibility of an interview.

It also creates some interest in the resume (which will be a more detailed explanation of your professional experience).

As you can see, each part of the document takes the reader on a short journey from the reason for applying, to why you’d be the best candidate for the job, to finally angling towards the next steps of the process.

By doing this while focusing on the job description this will provide the recruiter with exactly what they’ll need to pick you for an interview.

Craft a Persuasive Professional Cover Letter

In our example of a professional cover letter, you’ll see how to start writing and organizing a document that can help take you to the next level of your career .

If you’ve already got a few years of experience under your belt, learn how to use it to your advantage.

Dear Patricia,

I wanted to make contact with you to register my interest in the Key Account Manager position with Rhino Insurance that is advertised on LinkedIn. During my 8 years of working in insurance, Rhino is a company I’ve always admired and I think I could offer you the skills you’re looking for.

My goal is and always has been to get the maximum from my staff and create excellent relationships with high-profile clients. That’s why over the last 4 years of working with Yannick Mutual I’ve overseen a 93% retention rate and helped to raise revenue by as much as 14%.

Great customer management is a skill that I know Rhino values highly and it is something I pride myself on also. Your 4.8-star customer satisfaction rating stands as a testament to your ability to respond properly to your client’s needs and I would love to bring my experience to help you achieve even better results.

I would be more than happy to talk in more depth about how I can help Rhino continue its success. Please contact me at 207-440-4475 if you would be interested in meeting for an interview.

Thank you for considering my application and I hope we can discuss the opportunity in more depth soon.

Raquel Galaz

What Makes This an Effective Professional Cover Letter?

Professional cover letters will need to be more detailed than some other types like  entry-level  or  simple cover letters .  However, conciseness is still key .

Start out strong

As you can see in this example of a good cover letter, the writer has started as usual by formally greeting the recruiter .

They then go on to introduce themselves and start making a strong case for why they would be the right choice.

Give specific examples

In the next section, they move on to explain a little about the way they manage in their current job. They also add specific instances  illustrating where they brought results .

As an experienced professional, you’ll be expected to provide plenty of examples of how you made a difference in previous jobs and what you achieved.

Encourage next steps

To finish things off, the candidate added important elements of a good conclusion:

• Stating a desire to meet
• Contact information
• Thank you for the employer’s consideration

This detailed document covers a lot in just a few paragraphs, however, it strikes the right  balance between essential information and brevity . It also functions well as it is specifically tailored to the type of profile that the recruiter is looking for.

Elevate Your Entry-Level Cover Letter

When you’re starting in your career, or you’ve made a  major change of industry  you’re going to need an effective entry-level cover letter. Use our example to get your professional journey off on the right foot.

I am writing to express my interest in the Structural Engineer position with Rode Engineering advertised on Glassdoor.com. Having recently completed my B.S. in Engineering from MIT in May 20XX, I would love to start my career with Rode and feel I would be a perfect fit for the role being offered.

You stated in your notice that you are looking for a candidate with superb communication skills, excellent focus, and who is a good team player. This is precisely what I would be able to bring to the position. During my time at MIT, I was an active member of the volleyball team, where interdependency, strategy, and quick decision-making were invaluable skills for success.

Additionally, over 2 summers, I interned with Humbert Energy for 6 months, working with their infrastructure team. This gave me a working knowledge of everyday engineering tasks as well as many more abilities such as spotting worn parts, serious flaws in a design, and necessary structural repairs.

As you can see, my hands-on experience, my extracurricular activities, and my Engineering B.S. make me a great fit for the Structural Engineer role at Rode. I would be excited to discuss the position more in person.

Thank you very much for considering my application. Please feel free to contact me either on my phone number 412-721-6679 or my personal email to talk about the position at length. I look forward to hearing from you.

Dan Gillard

What Makes This a Convincing Entry-Level Cover Letter?

Like all good cover letters, this example starts by making a  soft introduction  and giving a little detail as to why the candidate could be a good fit for the role.

Explain you’re newly qualified

The entry-level cover letter immediately addresses the elephant in the room — the lack of professional experience.

The candidate makes it clear that they’re newly qualified while emphasizing their enthusiasm for the role.

Highlight your qualifications

By mentioning their qualification right away , the recruiter can see they’re fully trained for the job, despite the lack of experience.

Your qualifications are going to be your biggest selling point in this type of letter. If you don’t have any, instead focus on relevant examples of hands-on work experience.

Show how you meet the requirements

In the main body of this example letter, we can see that the applicant has focused entirely on addressing the job requirements point-by-point. They’ve brought specific examples of where their  college education and time studying were put to good use  and how this could apply to the sort of profile the recruiter is looking for.

This involves a mix of  hard skills and soft skills , but it helps to make up for any lack of real-world professional experience. To make their case even stronger, they have been able to include details of an internship, which could help make a difference against the competition.

End on a positive note

To finish everything off, the writer has given a short prompt to  reiterate why they would fit the desired profile well , in a quick conclusion. All that then needs to be added is a short paragraph giving the recruiter a call to action and hopefully instigating the next steps in the process.

Create a Career Change Cover Letter

Here’s an example of a cover letter tailored for an individual making a career transition . This letter showcases how to effectively pivot skills and experience to a new industry:

Dear Ms. Smith,

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Specialist position at Innovatech Solutions, as advertised on LinkedIn. With a robust background in financial analysis, I am excited about the opportunity to apply my skills and experiences in a new and challenging context within the marketing industry.

In my previous role as a Financial Analyst at Global Finance Inc., I honed my skills in data analysis and strategic planning, which I believe are directly transferable to the Marketing Specialist role. For instance, I led a project where I analyzed market trends and financial data to develop strategies that increased our department’s efficiency by 25%. This experience has equipped me with a unique perspective and an array of skills that I am eager to bring to your team.

Moreover, my passion for creative problem-solving and digital marketing has driven me to pursue this career change. I have taken proactive steps to prepare myself for this transition, including completing a comprehensive digital marketing certification course and actively managing a small business’s social media accounts. My dedication to continuous learning and adaptation makes me well-suited for the dynamic environment at Innovatech Solutions.

I am particularly drawn to Innovatech Solutions because of your commitment to innovation and excellence in technology marketing. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing to such a forward-thinking and innovative team, and I am confident that my background and drive for excellence will make me a valuable addition to your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and enthusiasm for change make me an ideal candidate for this position. I am available at your convenience for an interview and can be reached at (555) 123-4567 or [email protected].

What Makes This a Powerful Cover Letter?

This cover letter effectively addresses the challenges and opportunities of a career change. It demonstrates the candidate’s ability to transfer valuable skills from one industry to another, highlighting adaptability and a keen understanding of how past experiences can benefit the new role.

The specific mention of proactive steps taken to prepare for the industry switch , such as courses or certifications, showcases the candidate’s commitment and initiative, which are highly valued traits in any industry.

Focus on transferable skills and achievements. Demonstrate how your experiences in previous roles or industries can bring unique value and fresh perspectives to the new position.

Personalize your cover letter

Additionally, the cover letter is personalized to the target company, showing that the candidate has done their research and is genuinely interested in the company’s culture and values.

This level of personalization and the clear articulation of why the candidate is drawn to the company set this cover letter apart.

Show your enthusiasm for the new role

The candidate’s enthusiasm for the new field and the positive tone throughout the letter convey confidence and readiness for the transition, making a strong case for why they should be considered despite the career change.

This approach ensures that the focus is on the candidate’s potential and future contributions, rather than solely on their experiences in a different industry.

Return to Workforce Cover Letter

Returning to the workforce after a career gap is easier with the right cover letter. Show you’re ready to restart your career with these tips.

Dear Mr. Johnson,

I am excited to apply for the Project Coordinator position at TechPros Solutions, as posted on LinkedIn. After a dedicated pause in my career to focus on pursuing further education, I am eager to re-enter the workforce with a renewed passion and commitment.

During my career hiatus, I have actively honed my skills in project management and digital marketing through online courses and freelance projects. These experiences have not only kept me professionally engaged but have also reinforced my dedication to personal growth and learning.

My previous professional background includes Marketing Specialist roles at XYZ Marketing Agency, where I excelled in developing and implementing digital marketing campaigns that increased client revenue by 30%. Although I temporarily stepped away from the corporate world, I have remained committed to organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability, which I believe are vital for success in the Project Coordinator role.

I am drawn to TechPros Solutions for its innovative approach to project management in the tech industry, and I am confident that my unique blend of experiences and skills will complement your team’s dynamic and innovative environment.

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to discuss how my background and determination align with the goals of TechPros Solutions. Please find my resume attached, and I look forward to the possibility of an interview to further explore how my return to the workforce can be a valuable asset to your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I can be reached at (555) 987-6543 or [email protected], and I am available for an interview at your convenience.

Emily Turner

What Makes This an Effective Return-to-the-Workforce Cover Letter?

This cover letter for re-entering the workforce effectively addresses the unique challenges and strengths of individuals returning after a career break. Here’s why it stands out :

Candid explanation

The candidate openly acknowledges their career hiatus and the reason behind it. This transparency demonstrates honesty and relatability, instantly connecting with hiring managers who appreciate straightforwardness.

Active skill enhancement

The cover letter highlights the candidate’s proactive approach during the career break, emphasizing continuous skill development through online courses and volunteer work. This showcases the candidate’s commitment to staying relevant in the industry.

Relevant transferable skills

The candidate strategically links their past professional experience, such as marketing roles, to the skills needed for the target position, in this case, project coordination.

By highlighting transferable skills like organization, problem-solving, and adaptability, the cover letter demonstrates readiness for the new role.

Alignment with company values

The candidate expresses genuine interest in the company by mentioning specific aspects of TechPros Solutions that attract them. This personalization shows that the candidate has done their homework and is genuinely excited about the organization.

Highlight the skills, experiences, and personal growth gained during the career break. Show potential employers how these factors make you a stronger and more well-rounded candidate.

This cover letter effectively bridges the career gap and positions the candidate as a valuable asset, ready to bring a fresh perspective and dedication to their new role.

It exemplifies how re-entering the workforce can be a positive and mutually beneficial experience for both the candidate and the company.

Ace Your Internship Application Cover Letter

Below is a sample cover letter tailored for internship applications, showing how to effectively showcase your academic background and enthusiasm for a specific role.

Dear Mr. Anderson,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Marketing Internship position at InnovateTech Solutions, as advertised on InternshipPortal.com. As a sophomore pursuing a degree in Marketing at Valleyview University, I am eager to apply my coursework and passion for digital marketing to a real-world professional setting.

Through my academic coursework and extracurricular involvement, I have developed a solid foundation in digital marketing strategies, including social media management, SEO optimization, and email marketing, which I believe aligns perfectly with the requirements of the Marketing Internship. For instance, my coursework in Digital Marketing Trends has equipped me with a strong understanding of current market dynamics, and my involvement in the Marketing Club has allowed me to apply these skills in a practical context by organizing successful promotional campaigns for local businesses.

I am particularly drawn to InnovateTech Solutions for its reputation for innovation and commitment to cutting-edge technology solutions. I am eager to contribute to the company’s marketing initiatives and gain valuable hands-on experience in digital marketing under the guidance of your talented team.

My drive for excellence, adaptability, and strong work ethic make me a dedicated learner and a valuable addition to your organization. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my skills and enthusiasm align with the goals of InnovateTech Solutions.

Thank you for considering my application. Please find my resume attached, and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. I can be reached at (555) 789-1234 or [email protected].

Hannah Williams

What Makes This a Strong Cover Letter for Internship Applications?

Firstly, this cover letter opens with a concise and clear introduction , leaving no room for ambiguity about the candidate’s interest in the specific internship role. This immediate expression of enthusiasm sets a positive tone for the reader.

Secondly, the cover letter effectively aligns the candidate’s academic and extracurricular experiences with the internship’s requirements .

Instead of merely listing qualifications, it provides context by highlighting relevant coursework and extracurricular activities. This approach allows the reader to see how the candidate’s background directly relates to the position.

Showcase your relevant coursework and extracurricular activities, and how they connect to the internship role to demonstrate your enthusiasm and eagerness.

Additionally, the cover letter has a high level of personalization. It’s evident that the candidate has invested time in researching the company, resulting in a letter that resonates with the organization’s mission and values . By expressing a genuine interest in the company, the candidate demonstrates their commitment to being a cultural fit.

In summary, this cover letter’s strength lies in its clarity, alignment of qualifications, and personalization, making it a well-rounded and compelling introduction to the candidate’s potential as an intern.

Creative Cover Letter

Creative cover letters stray a little from the normal rules of job applications. Find out how to effectively  create a document for a more artistic job that gets results  and demonstrates your creativity.

Dear David,

Fudge Digital is hiring and I am just the person you need. My name is Susan Taylor and I’m a seasoned and successful Digital Marketing Manager with more than 5 years of online marketing experience. Fudge is a business with a reputation for bringing together creativity and progress. Together, I think we’d make the perfect team.

I live and breathe life as a digital creative and in the last 5 years, it’s been my honor to be able to call myself a professional in this field. I make it my mission to create attractive and effective marketing assets that look great and sell better. In the last quarter, the digital assets my team and I brought to life have smashed their targets by over 30%.

My biggest guiding forces are communication and cooperation and I know that Fudge also appreciates these skills. I’ve been following your blog for a couple of years now and have always been impressed by the values of teamwork and inspiration that are woven into everything you do.

I was also totally blown away by your Award-winning video campaign. Hopefully, we’ll be able to work together to see that you retain the title next year.

Thank you for taking the time to read through my application. I am contactable by email every day or by landline Monday to Friday from 6 pm onwards. I hope we can meet soon to discuss how we can help Fudge reach even greater heights.

Yours truly,

Susan Taylor

What Makes This a Creative Cover Letter?

In most cases, creative cover letters involve  even more individuality than most  and rely on standing out. Nevertheless, they still follow normal letter-writing conventions.

As you can see in our professional example, the writer still uses  standard formality and letter structure . However, once they launch into their opening salvo they do so with a much more imaginative approach.

The letter opening still introduces the candidate and sells them a little as the perfect fit for the job. As you would normally expect, it also gives some detail about the  motivations of the applicant .

Don’t get too experimental with your cover letter. It is still a formal part of your job application and whilst you can take some risks it still has to focus on the task at hand.

The middle sections of this letter focus on building a complete picture of the candidate. It goes into detail whilst also  adding more creative embellishments  than you wouldn’t normally see in a  simple  or  professional cover letter .

Our candidate chooses to use specific examples  that illustrate the success their work has brought in. In this case, exceeding commercial targets by double-digit percentages.

This writer also goes a step further and gives a lot more information about  how the company itself got their attention  and how both parties’ goals align. Again, they cite a specific example to strengthen their hand and to show they have done their research on the business.

The author of the letter then finishes off with a quick thank you for consideration and gives the recruiter some details on how to make contact. This leaves the reader with a  positive final impression  as well as the precise sort of information they need to move the process forward.

As we can see, creative documents are worded very differently from more conventional ones. However, even in these cases, it’s still essential to  give as much evidence as possible  on your working record, using numerical data where possible.

How to Write a Short Cover Letter

It isn’t always necessary to write a cover letter that fills an entire page. If you can manage to explain why you’re the best candidate for the position, your  cover letter’s length   does not need to be that long .

Use the top 1 to 2 reasons you should be hired , and keep what you write relevant to the vacancy.

Dear Mr. James,

I’ve loved teaching and working with children and adolescents since I was a summer camp counselor in my junior year of high school.

I have over eight years of teaching experience at the middle school level, working with children that cover a wide range of learning skills. The state test scores of my students have collectively finished in the 95th percentile of all test takers in each of the past four years. Considering all of these factors, I believe I am the ideal candidate for the 7th and 8th-grade math teacher position at Woodlawn Middle School.

Please feel free to contact me at any time, I can be reached at 555-732-4198 or by email at [email protected]

Frederik Gorman

You might not think less is more when you are applying for a job vacancy. However, in this case, a short cover letter can be just as convincing as a long one . There are cover letters that last an entire page and list  irrelevant information .

The purpose of a short cover letter is to get straight to the point . As we can see in the above short cover letter example, the applicant makes it clear right away that they are excited about the chance to fill the position.

Don’t worry so much about trying to flatter the employer. Get into what makes you the perfect candidate right at the beginning, and mention you would like a response soon.

The body of the letter and the ending of the letter achieve several things :

• Addresses a specific accomplishment
• Makes the candidate’s skills and experience clear
• Enthusiasm for the job and an interview

Normal cover letters will go into further detail regarding the experience and skills the candidate possesses, however, this type of letter briefly yet effectively communicates the same information.

What Should I Include in My Cover Letter?

An effective cover letter will need the following 4 key elements shown below

1. A formal greeting

Your first contact with the employer should be formal. You should address them as Mr/Mrs/Ms . for this initial interaction and state their name. If possible, avoid generic openers like “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom it may concern”.

2. A persuasive introduction

Use the first paragraph to introduce yourself as a candidate and to make a great first impression . Use this space to give quick reasons why you applied and would be the right choice for the precise job on offer.

3. Compelling paragraphs

This next part of the letter can be used to build a convincing argument as to why you’d be the right pick for the company . Use numerical evidence to support your case and make your achievements eye-grabbing.

4. Strong Final Impression

Finally, start moving the conversation toward the next stage of the job selection process. Encourage the recruiter to read your resume for further details and explain that you’re keen to meet in person as well as how you can be contacted.

[Hiring Manager’s name]

[Company name]

[Company address]

Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms. [Hiring Manager Name]

I am contacting you to communicate my interest in the Administrative Assistant role being advertised by [company]. This role caught my attention as I have a strong educational background and extensive experience in the office administration of medium-sized businesses. I think this knowledge and expertise could be highly valuable to [company].

During my 6-year career, I have assisted with a wide range of office administrative tasks using Microsoft Office and LibreOffice software. I have been responsible for maintaining and managing sensitive data at every step of the meeting organization from planning to the recording of minutes, as well as drafting critical communications.

In my current position, I was also tasked with optimizing the efficiency of our office supply buying, the results of which saved the company over $1,800 per quarter. I also enhanced my written skills greatly by assisting with the drafting and proofing of important executive correspondences.

I have enclosed my resume with this letter to provide further information about my career history so far. I hope that my credentials represent a good match for this role.

I am very keen to learn more about the position and would be eager to organize a meeting to discuss it in more detail. In the meantime, I’d like to thank you for your consideration and invite you to contact me at any time regarding the opportunity.

I can be reached every evening from 4 pm to 8.30 pm via home phone or at any time with my email address listed below.

Address Phone number Email address

Essential Points to Highlight In Your Cover Letter

What exactly should your cover letter include? Here’s a quick summary of the essentials:

• Write for the employer : Keep the needs of the employer in mind when you start writing your letter. Discard any details that don’t serve the specific job description.
• Highlight your strengths : Convey your achievements and results that best suit the job. Show that you could fit into the business easily and deliver success from the go.
• Detail skills and qualifications : Briefly demonstrate to the employer you’ve got the right training for the role and show your dedication to personal and professional development.
• Add a little something extra : Don’t shy away from adding relevant personal details that may enhance your profile. Highlight any hobbies or interests that could make you a good match for the role

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Cover Letter

Crafting the perfect cover letter is an art. While we’ve provided you with some stellar examples to guide you, it’s equally important to know what pitfalls to avoid . 

Here are some common mistakes that could be the difference between your application landing in the ‘yes’ pile or the recycling bin:

• Overgeneralization : Tailoring your cover letter to each job application is crucial. Avoid using a one-size-fits-all approach. Recruiters can easily spot a generic cover letter, and it often suggests a lack of genuine interest in the role.
• Rehashing your resume : Your cover letter should complement, not duplicate, your resume. Use this opportunity to tell a story or provide context to your experiences that your resume cannot convey.
• Lengthy narratives : Brevity is the soul of wit, especially in cover letters. Keep it concise. Aim for a few short paragraphs, ensuring each sentence adds value and advances your case.
• Neglecting the company’s culture : Each company has its unique culture and values. Show that you’ve done your homework by aligning your cover letter’s tone and content with the company’s ethos.
• Typos and grammatical errors : Nothing undermines your professionalism more than spelling and grammar mistakes. Proofread meticulously, and consider having someone else review your cover letter.
• Overconfidence or underconfidence : Striking the right balance is key. Avoid coming off as arrogant, but also don’t sell yourself short. Be confident in your abilities and experiences without overstepping.
• Skipping the call to action : Conclude with a clear call to action. Express your enthusiasm for a potential interview and provide your contact details, encouraging the recruiter to engage further.
• Ignoring instructions : If the job posting has specific instructions for your cover letter, follow them. Failing to do so can be seen as a lack of attention to detail or inability to follow directions.
• Using clichés : Phrases like “I’m a team player” or “I think outside the box” are overused. Instead, provide specific examples that demonstrate these qualities.
• Forgetting to personalize : Address the letter to a specific person whenever possible. “Dear Hiring Manager” is a last resort. Personalization shows you’ve put effort into understanding who is hiring.

Make your cover letter count by avoiding these common mistakes and you’ll be one step closer to landing the job you want.

Advantages of Using Cover Letter Examples to Write Your Own

As well as offering guidance and some inspiration , cover letter examples can be useful tools in helping you learn how to  highlight the most important information  that employers will need to know about.

When  creating your cover letter , ResumeCoach’s examples can help with the following points:

Learn the length you should use and the sections that you will need to include.

2. Keywords

Personalize your cover letter and find the keywords that work for your sector.

3. Choice of language

Get the level of formality right and make the text accessible for any recruiter.

4. Adaptability and speed

Complete and adapt your cover letter and resume for any job with our editor.

Trouble getting your Cover Letter started?

Beat the blank page with expert help.

• Cover Letter Examples

Learn from real professional cover letter examples for 1200+ different job titles. These cover letter samples will guide you through writing your own cover letter for your dream job.

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Land Your Dream Job

Writing a cover letter doesn’t have to be hard. It can be as easy as choosing the right greeting, telling your experience through results, and following a proven cover letter example.

What is a cover letter and what does it contain

A cover letter is a letter of introduction that you attach to your resume when you apply for a job. Oftentimes, job ads call it a covering letter, letter of motivation, or a letter of introduction – it’s all the same thing.

Ideally, you should aim at half-page to full-page . Its purpose is to introduce you to a potential employer and tell an inspiring story of your career and why you should be their next hire. Here’s a full guide on cover letter length that we’ve prepared.

A good cover letter can be separated into five different segments : salutation, opener, body, call to action, and closer . When appropriate, you can cover any gaps in employment, your availability, and if you’re ready to relocate.

Now, let’s dig deeper into the sections that a good cover letter includes .

Share your own contact details along with the recipient's contact information.

Introduce yourself and state the purpose of your letter. The salutation shows respect to the recipient and is tailored to the individual, if possible, to add a personal touch.

Elaborate on your qualifications, experience, and skills related to the job. This section is the core of your cover letter, offering compelling evidence of why you're the ideal candidate for the position.

Reiterate your interest, sign-off and request a follow-up.

Accounting and Finance

Sum up your skills and experience and show employers your character with a professional cover letter. Just follow one of the examples below and you’ll be on your way to a new job.

• Accounting Analyst
• Chief Financial Officer
• Director of Finance
• Staff Accountant
• Compliance Officer
• Oracle Project Accounting
• Financial Analyst
• Accounts Payable
• Construction Accounting
• External Auditor
• Audit Manager
• Credit Analyst
• Senior Accountant
• Account Executive
• Entry Level Financial Analyst
• Financial Consultant
• Government Accounting
• Billing Specialist
• Risk Manager
• Purchase Accounting
• Audit Director
• Payroll Manager
• Accounting Assistant
• Management Accounting
• VP of Finance
• Financial Accountant
• Accounts Clerk
• Fund Accountant
• Director of Accounting
• Lending manager
• Financial Advisor
• Cost Accounting
• Senior Financial Analyst
• Business Analyst Accounting
• Public Accounting
• Hotel Accounting
• Financial Accounting
• Accounts Payable Specialist
• Finance Director
• Payroll Director
• Compliance Analyst
• Night Auditor
• Hotel Night Auditor
• Project Accounting
• Financial Controller
• Financial Professional
• Tax Manager
• Big 4 Accounting
• Public Accounting Auditor
• Credit Manager
• Commercial Banking
• Entry Level Actuary
• Forensic Accounting
• Compensation Analyst
• General Ledger Accounting
• Accounting Supervisor
• Financial Risk Analyst
• Phone Banking
• Collections Specialist
• Treasury Analyst
• Compensation Manager
• Senior Tax Accountant
• Corporate Accounting
• Full Cycle Accounting
• Loan Officer
• Personal Banker
• Internal Audit Manager
• Revenue Accountant
• Financial Auditor
• Finance Manager
• Functional Accounting
• Payroll Admin
• Bank Manager
• Payroll Analyst
• Stock Broker
• Purchase Manager
• Big 4 Auditor
• Accounts Payable Manager
• Private Equity
• Pricing Analyst
• Bank Branch Manager
• Corporate Banking
• Treasury Manager
• Accounts Payable Clerk
• Bid Manager
• Loan Processor
• Portfolio Manager
• Investment Banking Associate
• Finance Intern
• Investment Banking Analyst
• Senior Auditor
• Accounts Receivable
• Finance Business Analyst
• Tax Director
• Financial Counselor
• Certified Financial Planner
• Financial Reporting Analyst
• Tax Accountant
• Finance Officer
• Financial Data Analyst
• Financial Reporting Manager
• Financial Project Manager
• Financial Assistant
• Financial Management Analyst
• Financial Planning Analyst
• Financial Representative
• Assistant Finance Manager
• Financial Management Specialist
• Financial Administrator
• Budget Analyst
• Staff Auditor
• Finance Clerk
• Corporate Financial Analyst
• Finance Coordinator
• Finance Associate
• Junior Financial Analyst
• Billing Manager
• Financial Operations Manager
• Finance Specialist
• Finance Executive
• Bank Teller
• Senior Finance Manager
• Purchasing Director

Business and Management

Your expertise is everything when it comes to business positions. Focus on your skills and tie them in with your accomplishments – just pick a cover letter example that suits your position.

• Business Analyst
• Business Development
• Business Intelligence
• Director of Business Development
• Digital Director
• Market Research
• IT Business Analyst
• VP Business Development
• Construction General Manager
• Business System Analyst
• Practice Manager
• Business Systems Analyst
• Business Data Analyst
• Business Development Manager
• Tableau Business Analyst
• Safety Manager
• Asset Manager
• Entry Level Business Analyst
• Senior Business Analyst
• Category Manager
• Technical Manager
• Innovation Specialist
• Business Manager
• Shift Manager
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Strategy Consultant
• Relationship Manager
• Junior Business Analyst
• Fedex Operations Manager
• Market Analyst
• Investment Manager
• Operations Associate
• Business Development Analyst
• Banking Business Analyst
• Supply Chain Business Analyst
• Online Business Owner
• Business Operations Analyst
• Library Director
• Compliance Manager
• Agile Business Analyst
• Branch Manager
• Business Development Consultant
• Self Employed Business Owner
• Strategic Account Manager
• Hotel General Manager
• Business Planning Manager
• Business Project Manager
• Environmental Manager
• Product Analyst
• Financial Business Analyst
• Business Relationship Manager
• Business Development Executive
• Construction Business Owner
• Strategy Manager
• Revenue Manager
• Business Unit Manager
• Business Director
• Division Manager
• Solution Manager
• Deputy Manager
• Sales Operations Manager
• Innovation Manager
• Planning Manager
• Club Manager
• Commodity Manager
• Management Consultant
• Cleaning Business Owner
• Casino Manager
• Warehouse Operations Manager
• Business Operations Manager
• Rpa Business Analyst
• Revenue Cycle Manager
• Marketing Account Manager
• Proposal Manager
• Business Process Manager
• Branch Operations Manager
• Strategic Sourcing Manager
• Resource Manager
• Environmental Consultant
• Fitness General Manager
• Configuration Manager
• Demand Planning Manager
• Operations Analyst
• Business Intelligence Director
• Business Continuity Manager
• Venue Manager
• Mortgage Operations Manager
• Strategic Planning Manager
• Small Business Owner
• Servicenow Business Analyst
• Service Delivery Manager
• Stock Manager
• Escape Room
• Small Business Manager
• Alliance Manager
• Hotel Operations Manager
• Rooms Division Manager
• Administrative General Manager
• Floor Manager
• Claims Manager
• Library Manager
• Logistics Account Manager
• Center Manager
• Marketing Operations Manager
• Assistant Business Manager
• Sourcing Manager
• Healthcare Operations Manager
• Business Consultant
• Healthcare Business Analyst
• SAP Business Analyst
• Implementation Manager
• Business Owner

Creative and Cultural Fields

Display your unique talents and flair in the creative and cultural industries. Choose from our examples to weave your artistic skills and cultural knowledge into a cover letter that truly represents you.

• Production Assistant
• Wedding Photographer
• Cinematographer
• Fashion Stylist
• Technical Theatre
• Film Production
• Voice Actor
• Stage Manager
• Video Producer
• Photographer
• Videographer
• Music Director
• Artist Manager
• Commercial Actor
• Fine Artist
• Gallery Director
• Band Director
• Background Actor
• Ballet Dancer
• Artistic Director
• Creative Producer
• Makeup Artist
• Professional Theatre
• Musical Theatre
• Performing Arts
• Photographer Assistant

Data Science

Your ability to work with data is valuable to most modern companies. Show them a story-driven cover letter and get the hiring manager’s attention by simply following one of the guides below.

• Data Scientist
• Entry-Level Data Analyst
• Big Data Engineer
• Data Mining
• Data Entry Specialist
• AWS Data Engineer
• SQL Data Analyst
• Azure Data Engineer
• Data Entry Clerk
• Data Center Technician
• Senior Data Engineer
• Data Architect
• Senior Data Scientist
• GCP Data Engineer
• Clinical Data Analyst
• Data Warehouse Consultant
• Senior Data Analyst
• Entry-Level Data Scientist
• Oracle Database Administrator
• Data Analytics Manager
• Lead Data Engineer
• Junior Data Engineer
• Analytics Engineer
• Data Manager
• Junior Data Analyst
• Enterprise Data Architect
• Statistical Data Analyst
• Data Specialist
• Data Warehouse Architect
• Database Assistant
• Data Science Manager
• Database Architect
• Data Entry Analyst
• Data Entry Operator
• Healthcare Data Analyst
• Data Center Engineer
• Data Management Analyst
• Marketing Data Analyst
• Database Manager
• Data Reporting Analyst
• Data Warehouse Engineer
• Excel Data Analyst
• Database Engineer
• Python Data Scientist

Emphasize your eye for aesthetics and functionality with a well-crafted cover letter. Select from our design-focused examples to highlight your creative process and success stories in a way that resonates with employers.

• UX Designer
• Video Editor
• Interior Designer
• Fashion Designer
• Architectural Designer
• Web Designer
• Illustrator
• Industrial Design
• Instructional Designer
• Product Designer
• Motion Graphics
• Plumbing Designer
• Senior Graphic Designer
• Retail Designer
• Game Designer
• Print Designer
• Interactive Designer
• UX Researcher
• Costume Designer
• Magazine Designer
• Mold Designer
• Creative Director
• Creative Graphic Designer
• Set Designer
• Footwear Designer
• Jewelry Designer
• Packaging Designer
• Curriculum Designer
• Junior Interior Designer
• Lighting Designer
• Character Animator
• Apparel Designer
• Visual Designer
• Art Director
• Multimedia Designer
• Kitchen Designer
• Floral Designer
• Production Designer
• UX UI Designer
• Associate Creative Director
• Sound Designer
• Cad Designer
• Mechanical Designer
• Digital Designer
• Electrical Designer
• Creative Services Manager
• Design Director
• Character Designer
• Graphic Artist
• Senior Art Director
• Logo Designer
• 3D Animator
• App Designer
• Junior Graphic Designer
• User Researcher
• Video Production Manager
• Design Manager
• Narrative Designer
• Concept Art
• Brand Designer
• Senior UX Designer
• Assistant Video Editor
• Presentation Designer
• Junior UX Designer

• Engineering

Present your love for making concepts a reality. Click on an engineering cover letter example that’s made for your position and follow the guide. You’ll be sure to build a cover letter that makes you stand out.

• Chemical Engineer
• Systems Engineer
• Construction Superintendent
• Construction Manager
• Aerospace Engineering
• Design Engineer
• Engineering Manager
• Project Engineer
• Structural Engineer
• Mechanical Design Engineer
• Quality Engineer
• Senior Engineer
• Product Engineer
• Audio Engineer
• Energy Manager
• Manufacturing Engineer
• Engineer In Training
• Director of Engineering
• Infrastructure Engineer
• Entry Level Mechanical Engineer
• Construction Worker
• Electrical Engineering
• Entry level Civil Engineer
• Industrial Engineer
• Landscape Architect
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Biomedical Engineer
• Petroleum Engineer
• Automotive Engineering
• Electrical Project Manager
• VP of Engineering
• Engineering Intern
• Architectural Project Manager
• Electrical Manager
• Senior Electrical Engineer
• Senior Mechanical Engineer
• Engineering Program Manager
• Engineering Project Manager
• Reliability Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Controls Engineer

Executive and Management

Cover letters are a great way to communicate the way you think and how you see the future. Pick a template that’s made for your position and use our cover letter builder to make yours shine.

• General Manager
• Assistant Manager
• IT Director
• Managing Director
• Chief Executive Officer
• Account Director
• Chief Marketing Officer
• Executive Assistant
• Chief Operational Officer
• Operations Manager
• Program Director
• Department Manager
• Team Manager
• Manager In Training
• Senior Executive Assistant
• Executive Director
• Department Head
• Board of Directors
• Entry-Level Operations Manager
• Assistant General Manager
• Assistant Director
• Assistant Branch Manager
• Head of Product
• Associate Director
• Deputy Director
• Senior Director
• Operations Supervisor
• Regional Director
• Chief Human Resources Officer
• Senior Operations Manager
• Fractional CEO
• Vice President
• Executive Manager
• Functional Manager

Federal and Government

Convey your dedication to public service and your understanding of governmental operations. Our examples guide you in crafting a cover letter that speaks to the specifics of federal and government roles.

• Grant Writer
• Regulatory Affairs
• Customs Broker
• Policy Analyst

• Food Service

Illustrate your passion for culinary arts and customer service. Use our examples to serve up a cover letter that showcases your experience in the food industry and your commitment to quality service.

• Restaurant Manager
• Bartender Server
• Cocktail Server
• Fine Dining
• Server Bartender
• Cocktail Waitress
• Restaurant General Manager
• Hospitality
• Kitchen Manager
• Assistant Restaurant Manager
• Food Service Manager
• Food and Beverage Manager
• Food Server
• Coffee Shop
• Restaurant Server
• Pastry Chef
• Banquet Server
• Fine Dining Server
• Nightclub Bartender
• Banquet Bartender
• Head Server
• Ice Cream Server
• Cocktail Bartender
• Restaurant Operations Manager
• Head Bartender
• Reservations Manager
• Bartender Waitress
• Event Bartender
• Hotel Bartender
• High Volume Bartender
• Front of House Manager
• Fine Dining Bartender
• Lead Server
• Catering Server
• Restaurant Assistant Manager
• Hospitality Manager
• Guest Relations Manager
• Executive Chef
• Bar Manager

Demonstrate your adaptability and skill set as a freelancer. With our examples, you can create a cover letter that highlights your independence and successful project completions across various industries.

• Freelance Writer
• Freelance Translator
• Freelance Photographer
• Freelance Journalist
• Freelance Reporter
• Freelance Artist
• Freelance Trainer
• Freelance Makeup Artist
• Freelance Architect
• Freelance IT Consultant
• Freelance Interpreter
• Freelance Consultant
• Freelance Fashion Designer
• Freelance Tutor
• Freelance Video Editor
• Freelance Producer
• Freelance Filmmaker
• Freelance Videographer
• Freelance Illustrator
• Freelance Designer
• Freelance Production Assistant
• Freelance Stylist
• Freelance Editor
• Freelance Project Manager
• Freelance Copy Editor
• Freelance Programmer
• Freelance Marketing Consultant
• Freelance Content Writer
• Freelance Social Media Manager

• Human Resources

Spend time communicating your HR skills and experience. Just pick a cover letter example that matches your job and follow the instructions in the article.

• Chief of Staff
• Change Management
• HR Director
• Director Of Operations
• District Manager
• Training Manager
• HR Assistant
• Recruiting Coordinator
• HR Business Partner
• HR Recruiter
• Recruitment Manager
• Human Resources Specialist
• Contracts Manager
• Senior Recruiter
• Benefits Specialist
• Talent Acquisition Manager
• HR Generalist
• Human Resources Coordinator
• Technical Recruiter
• People Manager
• Problem Manager
• Knowledge Manager
• Benefits Analyst
• Transition Manager
• Corporate Recruiter
• Benefits Manager
• Continuous Improvement Manager
• Contract Analyst
• Diversity And Inclusion Manager
• People Operations Manager
• HR Program Manager
• HR Project Manager
• Training Director
• Talent Manager
• Assistant Operations Manager
• Human Resources Consultant
• Staffing Manager

Information Technology

Show how serious you are about your future and career growth with a well-written cover letter. Pick one of the job-matching examples below and just follow our guidelines.

• Front-End Developer
• Python Developer
• Full-Stack Developer
• System Administrator
• PhP Developer
• Computer Engineer
• Desktop Support
• QA Automation
• Entry Level System Administrator
• Software Tester
• Network Administrator
• Entry Level Software Engineer
• AWS Testing
• System And Network Engineer
• Software Engineer Intern
• IT Specialist
• UI Designer
• Entry Level Network Engineer
• Windows System Administrator
• Junior Salesforce Admin
• ETL Developer
• IT Support Analyst
• Engineering Student
• Database Developer
• Salesforce Developer
• UI Developer
• Informatica
• Cloud Architect
• SQL Developer
• Security Analyst
• Site Reliability Engineer
• Network Security Engineer
• Javascript Developer
• Entry Level It
• Tableau Developer
• Salesforce Consultant
• Enterprise Architect
• Wordpress Developer
• Machine Learning
• Voip Network Engineer
• Technical Consultant
• Database Analyst
• AWS Cloud Engineer
• Social Engineering
• SAS Clinical Programmer
• Junior Software Developer
• IT Technician
• Entry-Level Computer Science
• Game Developer
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Solutions Architect
• Salesforce Business Analyst
• Entry Level Software Developer
• System Analyst
• Sophomore Engineering
• Technical Writer
• AWS Solutions Architect
• IT Support Manager
• Computer Support Specialist
• Junior System Administrator
• Technical Support Manager
• IT System Administrator
• Wireless Network Engineer
• Application Security Engineer
• AWS Cloud Practitioner
• Hardware Engineer
• Administrator
• Java Full Stack Developer
• Senior System Administrator
• Linux System Administrator
• Service Desk Analyst
• Product Support Specialist
• Cnc Programmer
• Computer Technician
• Service Desk Manager
• Junior Front-End Developer
• AWS Developer
• Senior Software Developer
• IT Operations Manager
• Blockchain Developer
• Cloud Network Engineer
• .Net Developer
• Help Desk Manager
• IT Infrastructure Manager
• Application Support Analyst
• Application Support Specialist
• IT Security Manager
• Penetration Tester
• Application Support Manager
• Data Center Network Engineer
• IT Infrastructure Project Manager
• Assistant IT Manager
• Security Director
• Development Manager
• Node Js Developer
• Solutions Engineer
• React Full Stack Developer
• Python Programmer
• Silicon Valley
• Splunk Developer
• PLC Programmer
• F5 Network Engineer
• Cloud Security Engineer
• Application Engineer
• Ethical Hacker
• Ccna Network Engineer
• IT Project Manager
• Salesforce Admin
• Platform Engineer
• Implementation Analyst
• Senior IT Manager
• Junior Cyber Security Analyst
• Senior Network Engineer
• Web Developer
• Network Engineer
• Cmm Programmer
• Cisco Network Engineer
• Snowflake Developer
• Python Full Stack Developer
• Statistical Programmer
• IT Service Manager
• Devsecops Engineer
• Junior Network Engineer
• Information Security Engineer
• Aws Network Engineer
• Angular Full Stack Developer
• .Net Full Stack Developer
• IT Delivery Manager
• Computer Science
• Entry-Level Programmer
• IT Service Delivery Manager
• Technology Manager
• Microservices
• L2 Network Engineer
• Implementation Consultant
• IT Audit Manager
• Control Systems Engineer
• Web Project Manager
• Cybersecurity Engineer

Intern and Entry Level

Launch your career with a compelling cover letter that showcases your potential. Our intern and entry-level examples are designed to highlight your educational background and any practical experience.

• Entry Level
• Marketing Intern
• Entry Level Sales
• Entry Level Engineering
• Data Science Intern
• Nurse Practitioner Student
• Undergraduate
• Accounting Intern
• MBA Application
• Physical Therapy Student
• Computer Science Internship
• Architecture Student
• Beginner Nursing Student
• MBA Graduate
• Design Intern
• Nursing Student Clinical Experience
• Graphic Design Student
• MBA Student
• Product Manager Intern
• Social Work Intern
• Financial Analyst Intern
• Actuary Internship
• Human Resources Intern
• Architecture Intern

Law Enforcement and Emergency Services

Showcase your commitment to safety and public service. Choose from our examples tailored for law enforcement and emergency services to highlight your readiness and situational responsiveness.

• Incident Manager
• Police Officer
• Law Enforcement
• Security Guard
• Security Officer
• Firefighter
• Case Manager
• Investigator
• 911 Dispatcher
• Security Dispatcher
• Security Manager
• Wildland Firefighter
• Armed Security Guard
• Unarmed Security Guard
• Entry-Level Police Officer
• Public Safety Officer
• Emergency Dispatcher
• Volunteer Firefighter
• Fraud Investigator
• Retired Police Officer

Applying for a job in the legal industry with a cover letter is almost always a must. Pick a cover letter example that fits your needs and get to writing.

• Legal Assistant
• Personal Injury Paralegal
• Trial Lawyer
• General Counsel
• Real Estate Attorney
• Associate Attorney
• Litigation Paralegal
• Immigration Paralegal
• Senior Attorney
• Patent Lawyer
• Senior Paralegal
• In House Counsel
• Real Estate Legal Assistant
• Immigration Lawyer
• Personal Injury Legal Assistant
• Corporate Lawyer
• Trademark Attorney
• Litigation Attorney
• Entry-Level Attorney
• Litigation Lawyer
• Employment Lawyer
• M&A Lawyer
• Real Estate Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer
• Contract Attorney
• Corporate Counsel
• Personal Injury Lawyer

Maintenance and Repair

Build your cover letter using one of our cover letter templates around the maintenance and repair industry. Focus on your strengths and let our cover letter builder do the job.

• Maintenance Manager
• Electrician
• Housekeeper
• Facility Manager
• Resident Assistant
• Landscaping
• Hospital Housekeeping
• Cable Technician
• Hotel Housekeeping
• Maintenance Mechanic
• Regional Property Manager
• Diesel Mechanic
• Electronic Technician
• Industrial Electrician
• Housekeeping Supervisor
• Journeyman Electrician
• Maintenance Technician
• Electrician Apprentice
• Residential Property Manager
• Housekeeping Manager
• Maintenance Electrician
• Facilities Coordinator
• Pest Control
• Cleaning Manager

Manufacturing and Warehousing

Detail your capabilities in manufacturing and warehousing environments. Our cover letter examples help you emphasize your operational knowledge and efficiency in managing logistics and production lines.

• Manual Tester
• Procurement Manager
• Supply Chain Manager
• Manufacturing Manager
• Forklift Operator
• Machine Operator
• Production Manager
• Warehouse Worker
• Inventory Manager
• Plant Manager
• Material Handler
• Logistic Manager
• Factory Worker
• Warehouse Manager
• Warehouse Supervisor
• Automotive Technician
• Cnc Machinist
• Production Planner
• Logistics Coordinator
• Production Coordinator
• Procurement Specialist
• Vendor Manager
• Production Technician
• Distributor
• Distribution Manager
• Delivery Manager
• Import Export Manager
• Assembly Technician
• Structural Welder
• Parts Manager
• Export Manager
• Factory Manager
• Packaging Manager
• Inventory Coordinator
• Manufacturing Technician
• Inventory Control Manager
• Fleet Manager
• Warehouse Associate
• Regional Operations Manager
• Supply Chain Analyst
• Welder Fabricator
• Warehouse Clerk
• Field Manager
• Field Service Manager
• Farm Manager
• Inventory Supervisor
• Assistant Production Manager

Move up the ladder in your marketing career with a cover letter that grabs the recruiting manager’s heart. Find your position below and take a closer look into how you should build your marketing cover letter with an example below.

• Digital Marketing
• Marketing Director
• Social Media Manager
• Creative Marketing
• Creative Digital Marketing
• Brand Ambassador
• Marketing Assistant
• Social Media Coordinator
• Digital Marketing Specialist
• Creative Manager
• Content Marketing
• Content Strategist
• Marketing Associate
• Email Marketing
• Brand Manager
• Digital Marketing Manager
• Email Marketing Manager
• Associate Marketing Manager
• Marketing Specialist
• Digital Marketing Analyst
• Sales And Marketing
• Social Media Intern
• Digital Marketing Executive
• Marketing Coordinator
• PPC Specialist
• Communications Specialist
• Campaign Manager
• Influencer Marketing
• Product Marketing
• SEO Manager
• Content Writer
• Public Relations Specialist
• VP Marketing
• Telemarketing
• VP Digital Marketing
• Ecommerce Marketing
• Marketing Project Manager
• Community Manager
• Branding Manager
• Director of Communications
• Senior Marketing Manager
• Product Marketing Manager
• Social Media Specialist
• Growth Marketing
• Marketing Executive
• Digital Marketing Consultant
• Social Media Marketing
• Content Creator
• Social Media Influencer
• Associate Brand Manager
• Assistant Brand Manager
• Web Content Manager
• Brand Marketing Manager
• Advertising
• SEO Specialist
• Media Manager
• PPC Manager
• Social Media Director
• Communications Coordinator
• Commercial Director
• Experiential Marketing
• Public Relations Manager
• International Marketing Manager
• Communication Manager
• Content Manager
• Business Marketing
• Sports Marketing
• Affiliate Marketing
• Brand Director
• Public Relations Director
• Membership Manager
• Fashion Marketing
• Content Designer
• Assistant Community Manager
• Communications Officer
• Channel Marketing Manager
• Affiliate Marketing Manager
• Ad Operations Manager
• Internal Communications
• Content Editor
• Event Marketing
• Field Marketing Manager
• Regional Marketing Manager
• News Director
• Engagement Manager
• Brand Marketing
• Digital Marketing Intern
• Trade Marketing Manager
• Digital Marketing Account Manager
• Analytics Manager
• Advertising Agency
• Advertising Manager
• Digital Advertising
• Entry Level Digital Marketing
• Assistant Marketing Manager
• Digital Account Manager
• Marketing Manager

Nursing and Healthcare

Show your true medical potential with the power of a well-structured, professional cover letter. Choose from one of our custom-made examples and make a cover letter that gets you the job.

• Psychologist
• Physical Therapist
• Medical Receptionist
• Critical Care Nurse
• General Dentist
• Medical Scribe
• Dental Assistant
• Infection Control Nurse
• Licensed Practical Nurse
• Registered Nurse
• General Nurse
• Respiratory Therapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Nursing Assistant
• Veterinary Nurse
• Physician Assistant
• Massage Therapist
• Medical Assistant
• Medical Technologist
• Clinical Social Worker
• Dental Hygienist
• Certified Medical Assistant
• Retail Pharmacist
• Pediatric Nurse
• Public Health
• In Home Caregiver
• Telemetry Nurse
• Dietary Aide
• Physical Therapist Assistant
• Pharmacy Manager
• School Nurse
• Nurse Practitioner
• School Social Worker
• Medical Surgical Nurse
• Child Care Provider
• Nurse Educator
• Surgical Tech
• Professional Nanny
• Travel Nurse
• Charge Nurse
• Hospital Volunteer
• Patient Service Representative
• Nursing Student
• Health Coach
• Speech Pathologist
• Veterinary Technician
• Hospital Pharmacist
• Entry Level Dental Assistant
• Aesthetic Nurse
• Private Caregiver
• Cardiology Medical Assistant
• Pediatric Medical Assistant
• Hospital Pharmacy Technician
• Nurse Manager
• Pediatric Dental Assistant
• Company Nurse
• Clinical Director
• CVS Pharmacy Technician
• Nursing Home Social Worker
• Social Work Student
• Elderly Caregiver
• Ob Gyn Medical Assistant
• CVS Pharmacist
• Staff Pharmacist
• Clinical Medical Assistant
• Psychiatrist
• Senior Pharmacy Technician
• Clinical Pharmacist
• Front Office Medical Assistant
• Associate Dentist
• Dermatology Medical Assistant
• Pediatric Dentist
• Special Needs Nanny
• Long Term Care Pharmacist
• Agency Nurse
• Clinical Research Nurse
• Occupational Health Nurse
• Home Health Aide
• Orthodontic Dental Assistant
• Clinical Nurse
• Nurse Recruiter
• Expanded Functions Dental Assistant
• Surgical Nurse
• Clinical Nurse Manager
• Nurse Anesthetist
• Legal Nurse Consultant
• Certified Dental Assistant
• Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
• Nursery Worker
• Oral Surgery Assistant
• Dental Nurse
• Community Pharmacist
• New Dentist
• Mental Health Coach
• Assistant Nurse
• Certified Nurse Aide
• Child Caregiver
• Practice Nurse
• Perioperative Nurse
• Clinical Trial Manager
• Child Care Worker
• Staff Nurse
• Hemodialysis Nurse
• Infant Nanny
• Child Care Director
• Social Worker
• Nurse Extern
• Phlebotomist
• Pharmacy Technician
• Care Worker
• Care Manager
• Professional Nurse

Office and Administration

The world goes around thanks to office and administration specialists. Communicate your vision for the future with potential employers and focus on how you can help the company you’re applying to grow.

• Administrative Assistant
• Administrative Manager
• Office Assistant
• Office Manager
• Office Administrator
• Office Manager Assistant
• School Administrative Assistant
• Tax Preparer
• Personal Assistant
• Administrative Secretary
• Sales Administrative Assistant
• Front Desk Agent
• Front Office Manager
• Executive Administrative Assistant
• Medical Interpreter
• Dental Office Manager
• Medical Office Assistant
• Medical Administrative Assistant
• Legal Secretary
• Assistant Front Office Manager
• Front Desk Medical Receptionist
• School Secretary
• Administrative Coordinator
• Temporary Administrative Assistant
• Medical Office Administrator
• Front Desk Manager
• Business Office Manager
• Construction Administrative Assistant
• HR Administrative Assistant
• Legal Translator
• Hotel Assistant Manager
• Sign Language Interpreter
• Guest Services Manager
• Chiropractic Office Manager
• Interpreter
• Real Estate Administrative Assistant
• Executive Assistant to CEO
• Construction Office Manager
• Executive Personal Assistant
• Administrative Associate
• Dental Administrative Assistant
• Senior Administrative Assistant
• Medical Office Manager
• Hotel Front Desk Receptionist
• Front Desk Supervisor
• Front Desk Coordinator
• Front Office Assistant
• Records Manager
• Front Desk Receptionist
• Household Personal Assistant
• French Translator

For roles that don't fit conventional categories, our diverse range of cover letter examples provides a starting point to express your unique skill set and professional experiences.

• Career Change
• Site Manager
• Returning to Work
• Spanish Translator
• Stay at Home Mom
• Work from Home
• Returning to Workforce
• Military to Civilian

Project Management

Tell the story of how you make ideas into real-life products thanks to your project management skills. Choose an example that’s made for your job position and build your cover letter.

• Project Coordinator
• Process Manager
• Program Analyst
• Project Manager
• Program Coordinator
• Technical Product Manager
• Tech Product Manager
• IT Product Manager
• Api Product Manager
• Principal Program Manager
• Mental Health Program Manager
• Project Analyst
• Process Engineer
• Agile Project Manager
• Technical Program Manager
• Healthcare Project Manager
• Aerospace Program Manager
• Public Health Program Manager
• Agile Coach
• Senior Product Manager
• Senior Project Manager
• Product Manager
• Technical Project Manager
• Nonprofit Program Manager
• Creative Project Manager
• Google Product Manager
• Associate Product Manager
• Youth Program Manager
• Project Controls Manager
• Clinical Project Manager
• Insurance Product Manager
• Salesforce Project Manager
• Creative Product Manager
• Product Owner
• Agile Program Manager
• Project Director
• Real Estate Project Manager
• Education Program Manager
• Implementation Project Manager
• Healthcare Product Manager
• SAP Project Manager
• Assistant Project Manager
• Pmo Director
• Agile Scrum Master
• Finance Project Manager
• Associate Project Manager
• Junior Project Manager
• Roofing Project Manager
• Amazon Product Manager
• Agile Product Manager
• SaaS Product Manager
• Infrastructure Project Manager
• Digital Product Manager
• Junior Product Manager
• Junior Scrum Master
• Construction Project Manager
• Marketing Product Manager
• Digital Project Manager
• Commercial Project Manager
• Microsoft Program Manager
• Group Product Manager
• Product Development Manager
• Ecommerce Product Manager
• Data Product Manager
• IT Program Manager
• AI Product Manager
• B2B Product Manager
• Principal Product Manager
• Growth Product Manager
• Senior Product Owner
• Pmo Manager
• Senior Scrum Master
• Senior Program Manager
• Assistant Product Manager
• Technical Product Owner
• Scrum Master
• Program Manager

Quality Assurance

Illustrate your meticulous nature and commitment to standards. Select from our quality assurance examples to showcase your expertise in monitoring, testing, and improving product quality.

• Quality Assurance Officer
• Quality Specialist
• Test Engineer
• Quality Assurance Technician
• Quality Inspector
• Quality Assurance Manager
• Quality Assurance Analyst
• Quality Control
• Quality Control Specialist
• Supplier Quality Manager
• Quality Supervisor
• Test Manager
• Quality Control Engineer
• Quality Assurance Specialist
• Quality Assurance Auditor
• Quality Control Inspector
• Quality Control Technician
• Release Manager
• Quality Consultant
• Quality Assurance Associate
• Data Quality Analyst
• Supplier Quality Engineer
• Quality Auditor
• Quality Assurance Supervisor
• Quality Assurance Engineer
• Quality Technician
• Quality Control Manager
• Junior QA Tester
• Quality Manager

Real Estate

Show your talent in finding, marketing, and selling homes quickly. Use one of your cover letter examples and build yours in minutes.

• Real Estate Manager
• Estate Agent
• Interior Design
• Senior Property Manager
• Assistant Property Manager
• Real Estate Portfolio Manager
• Real Estate Broker
• Real Estate Assistant
• Real Estate Developer
• Real Estate Sales Manager
• Real Estate Salesperson
• Real Estate Professional
• Real Estate Appraiser
• Mortgage Broker
• Commercial Real Estate Agent
• House Manager
• Property Manager
• Real Estate Intern
• Real Estate Agent

Sales and Retail

Use a cover letter to impress hiring managers with your story. Show your understanding of human psychology by using a cover letter on top of your resume. Just pick a cover letter example and follow the guide.

• Manager Retail
• Visual Retail
• Remote Customer Service
• Customer Success Manager
• Territory Sales Manager
• Medical Sales
• Sales Manager
• Luxury Retail
• Assistant Manager Retail
• Regional Sales Manager
• Car Salesman
• Sales Consultant
• Customer Service Associate
• Call Center Representative
• Service Advisor
• Sales Associate
• Customer Service Supervisor
• Insurance Sales
• Outside Sales
• Sales Engineer
• Pharmaceutical Sales
• Clothing Store Sales Associate
• Call Center Manager
• Sales Analyst
• Customer Service Retail
• Retail Assistant Manager
• Customer Service Specialist
• Customer Support Specialist
• Marketing And Sales
• Executive Sales
• Grocery Store Cashier
• Grocery Store Manager
• Lead Generation
• Head of Sales
• Call Center Customer Service
• Medical Device Sales
• Sales Account Manager
• Pharmaceutical Sales Rep
• Retail Worker
• Distribution Sales Manager
• Assistant Store Manager
• Sales Representative
• Technical Account Manager
• Call Center Supervisor
• Account Manager
• Customer Service Manager
• Inside Sales
• Walmart Stocker
• Waitress Cashier
• Sales Coordinator
• Strong Carrier Sales
• Sales Development Representative
• Sales Professional
• Restaurant Cashier
• Leasing Manager
• Key Account Manager
• Overnight Stocker
• Grocery Manager
• Liquor Store Manager
• Wholesale Manager
• Retail Salesperson
• Business Analyst Retail
• Solar Sales
• Telesales Representative
• Customer Service Representative
• Sales Trainee
• Clothing Store
• Furniture Sales
• Sales Advisor
• Commercial Manager
• Sales And Marketing Manager
• Pawn Broker
• Store Manager
• Insurance Agent
• Automotive General Sales Manager
• Junior Account Executive
• Technical Sales Representative
• Phone Sales
• Beauty Consultant
• Regional Sales Representative
• Retail Sales Supervisor
• Store Manager Retail
• Enterprise Account Executive
• Account Coordinator
• Apple Retail
• Sales Trainer
• Independent Sales Consultant
• Food Cashier
• Retail Sales Consultant
• Lead Cashier
• Retail Sales Executive
• Retail Assistant Store Manager
• Medical Device Sales Representative
• Merchandise Manager
• Starbucks Store Manager
• Retail Operations Manager
• Senior Account Executive
• Wine Sales Representative
• Sales Promoter
• Internet Sales Manager
• Retail Director
• Sales Support Coordinator
• Door to Door Sales
• Customer Relations Manager
• Client Engagement Manager
• Territory Sales Representative
• Insurance Broker
• Client Partner
• Hotel Sales Manager
• Grocery Stocker
• High End Retail
• Sales Associate Cashier
• Assistant Sales Manager
• Sales Executive
• Director of Customer Success
• Retail Sales Associate
• Software Sales
• Client Support Specialist
• Senior Sales Associate
• Sales Clerk
• Sales Assistant
• Customer Service Cashier
• Retail Sales Manager
• VP of Sales
• Customer Experience Manager
• Customer Sales Representative
• Client Account Manager
• Convenience Store Manager
• Retail General Manager
• Cashier Manager
• Retail Cashier
• Customer Support Engineer
• Fashion Retail
• CVS Store Manager
• Senior Sales Executive
• Sales Development Manager
• Sales Director
• Product Specialist
• Sales Marketing Manager
• Sales Administrator
• Freight Broker
• Sales Support Representative
• Customer Care Manager
• Customer Support Manager
• Customer Service Agent
• Corporate Sales Manager
• New Home Sales Consultant
• CRM Project Manager
• Senior Account Manager
• Client Service Manager
• Sales Account Executive
• Customer Account Manager
• CRM Manager
• Commercial Account Manager
• Insurance Account Manager
• Construction Sales
• Advertising Sales Executive
• Enterprise Account Manager
• Reservation Sales Agent
• Sales And Marketing Executive
• Leasing Consultant
• Channel Sales Manager
• General Sales Manager
• Customer Service Coordinator
• Field Sales Representative
• Real Estate Sales
• Merchandising Manager
• Travel Consultant
• Sales Recruiter
• SaaS Account Executive
• Corporate Account Manager
• Technology Consultant
• Sales Operations Analyst
• Senior Sales Manager
• District Sales Manager
• Purchasing Agent
• Senior Sales Engineer
• Customer Success Associate
• Visual Merchandising Manager
• Sales Person
• Sales Team Leader
• Entry-Level Customer Service
• Sales Support Specialist
• Sales Agent
• Online Sales Manager
• International Sales Manager
• Sales Supervisor
• Casino Cashier
• Technical Sales Manager
• Enterprise Sales
• Luxury Sales
• Fragrance Sales Associate
• Branch Sales Manager
• Sales Specialist
• Pricing Manager
• Sales Cashier
• Advertising Sales Representative
• Jewelry Sales
• Sales Merchandiser
• IT Sales Executive
• Sales Officer
• Sales Intern
• National Sales Manager
• Regional Account Manager
• Area Sales Manager
• Customer Service
• Regional Sales Director
• Call Center Director
• National Account Manager

Salon and Spa

Highlight your expertise in beauty and wellness with a personalized cover letter. Our examples help you demonstrate your skills in enhancing client appearance and promoting relaxation.

• Student Esthetician
• Medical Esthetician
• Hair Stylist
• Spa Manager
• Esthetician
• Cosmetologist
• Licensed Esthetician
• Spa Director
• Salon Manager
• Assistant Spa Manager

Science and Research

A cover letter can help you tell your story and make your resume that much better. Choose one of our science-related cover letter examples and make yours shine.

• Lab Technician
• Research Director
• Student Researcher
• Quality Control Chemist
• Radiologic Technologist
• Research Associate
• Quantitative Researcher
• Clinical Research Assistant
• Research Manager
• Graduate Research Assistant
• Lab Manager
• Lab Assistant
• Undergraduate Research Assistant
• Research Assistant
• Entry Level Chemist
• Analytical Chemist

Software Engineering

Present your technical prowess and problem-solving skills. Our software engineering cover letter examples are designed to showcase your coding abilities and project management skills.

• Senior Software Engineer
• Software Architect
• Software Analyst
• Software Support Analyst
• Devops Engineer
• Software Development Engineer
• Golang Developer
• Director of Software Development
• Director of Software Engineering
• Software Developer
• Junior Devops Engineer
• Software Development Manager
• Senior Web Developer
• Software QA Manager
• Web Application Developer
• Azure Devops Engineer
• Software Product Manager
• Freelance Developer
• Software Project Manager
• Android Developer
• Software Consultant
• Angular Developer
• Product Developer
• Sharepoint Developer
• Junior Web Developer
• CRM Developer
• Mobile Application Developer
• Software QA Engineer
• Software Test Analyst
• QA Software Tester
• Senior Developer
• Software Engineering Manager
• Java Software Developer
• Software Programmer
• Software Specialist
• Java Developer
• Backend Engineer
• Software Test Engineer
• Lead Engineer
• Software Team Lead
• iOS Developer
• Junior Software Engineer
• Content Developer
• Integration Developer
• Embedded Software Engineer
• Senior Devops Engineer
• Principal Software Engineer
• Software Engineering Intern
• Software Technician
• Senior PHP Developer
• C Developer
• GIS Developer
• Java Software Engineer
• Hadoop Developer
• Ruby On Rails Developer
• Drupal Developer
• Freelance Software Developer
• Associate Software Engineer
• Senior Java Developer
• SAP Abap Developer
• Senior Oracle Developer
• EDI Developer
• Software Engineer New Grad
• Java Web Developer
• Prompt Engineer
• Junior Java Developer
• Cobol Developer
• GCP Devops Engineer
• J2EE Developer
• Software Business Analyst
• Asp.Net Developer
• Cognos Developer
• Software Engineer
• Staff Software Engineer

Sports and Recreation

Share your enthusiasm for fitness and sports with a dynamic cover letter. Use our examples to highlight your experience in coaching, team management, and promoting healthy lifestyles.

• Basketball Coach
• Fitness Trainer
• Camp Counselor
• Yoga Instructor
• Event Planner
• Event Director
• Summer Camp Counselor
• Student Athlete
• Events Manager
• Yoga Teacher
• Event Coordinator
• Athletic Director
• Division 1 Athlete
• Fitness Director
• Fitness Manager
• Event Project Manager
• Tour Director
• Tour Manager
• Banquet Manager
• Resort Manager
• Community Organizer
• Personal Trainer

Teaching and Education

Let your academic accomplishments speak for themselves. Choose a cover letter template around education and focus on the important things by following our templates.

• Paraprofessional
• Art Teacher
• Spanish Teacher
• Kindergarten Teacher Assistant
• Virtual Teacher
• Educational Consultant
• High School Science Teacher
• Math Teacher
• School Counselor
• Elementary Teacher
• Teacher Assistant
• Substitute Teacher
• High School Teacher
• Correctional Officer
• Preschool Teacher Assistant
• SLP Grad School
• Pre K Teacher
• Music Teacher
• Creative Art Teacher
• Scholarship
• Teacher For Career Change
• Preschool Assistant Teacher
• Special Education Teacher
• Transitioning Teacher
• Dance Teacher
• Private Tutor
• Science Teacher
• Online Tutor
• Academic Advisor
• Kindergarten Teacher
• High School Academic
• Lead Teacher
• Special Education Teacher Assistant
• Day Care Teacher
• Student Teacher
• Daycare Teacher Assistant
• Grad School
• Social Studies Teacher
• Biology Teacher
• Early Childhood Teacher
• Physical Education Teacher
• Bilingual Teacher
• Child Care Teacher
• Theatre Teacher
• Toddler Teacher
• Summer School Teacher
• Technology Teacher
• Sunday School Teacher
• Retired Teacher
• Computer Science Teacher
• History Teacher
• Language Teacher
• Graduate Teaching Assistant
• Online Teacher
• Preschool Director
• Piano Teacher
• Infant Teacher
• Montessori Teacher
• Middle School Teacher
• First Grade Teacher
• After School Teacher
• Preschool Teacher
• Student Ambassador
• New Teacher
• Distance Learning Teacher
• Undergraduate Teaching Assistant

Travel and Transportation

Express your expertise in the travel and transportation sector. Our examples guide you in illustrating your knowledge of logistics, customer service, and your ability to manage travel operations efficiently.

• Airport Manager
• Truck Dispatcher
• Travel Manager
• School Bus Driver
• Flight Attendant
• Uber Driver
• Truck Driver
• Airline Pilot
• Aircraft Dispatcher
• Transportation Dispatcher
• Transport Manager
• Commercial Pilot
• Food Delivery Driver
• Entry Level Dispatcher
• Amazon Delivery Driver
• CDL Truck Driver
• Corporate Flight Attendant
• Pizza Delivery Driver
• Drone Pilot
• Traffic Manager
• Delivery Driver
• Transportation Operations Manager

Cover letter salutation

Writing the proper cover letter salutation is about 50% of the struggle. Nothing seems appropriate. The time-proven, trusty cover letter salutations seem a bit cliché and outdated.

The secret to writing a suitable greeting is to be relevant. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I know who the hiring manager/recruiter is?
• Did someone recommend me the job?
• Have I communicated with the recruiter before?

If you can answer one out of these three questions with “yes” , then feel free to use the recruiter’s name in the salutation. And if you feel like it’s inappropriate to call the hiring manager by name, rest assured, it’s absolutely alright. It shows that you’ve done your research, and people love it when someone’s put in the effort.

Good cover letter greetings to use when you know who the hiring manager is, include:

• Dear [Last Name],
• Dear [First and Last Name],
• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms [Last Name],

With that being said, “Dear” is as professional as you get in the world of cover letter salutations. However, if you’re applying for a job position in a creative agency where competition is fierce, and you need a cover letter to stand out, but the overall vibe is far more relaxed, feel free to start your cover letter with “Hello”.

If you have no idea who’ll be reading your letter of motivation , you can use a generic greeting. They’re far less enticing, but they get the job done. Generic cover letter salutations include:

Dear Hiring Manager,

• Dear [Job Position],

Bad example

Good example, cover letter opening.

A cover letter opening paragraph has one purpose – hook the reader, so they read your letter all the way through. That’s why you should keep the first sentence fairly short and straight to the point.

Here’s an example of a good opening:

Summarize your biggest professional achievement in a single sentence. Show the impact you’ve had at your previous job. This makes it clear to the recruiter that you mean business.

Length-wise, the opening paragraph of your covering letter shouldn’t be longer than two sentences. If you’re into writing, the opening paragraph is your hook sentence. 😉

Cover letter body paragraphs

The body of the cover letter is the longest section. It consists of three to four paragraphs telling the story of your professional life.

Keep in mind that there’s a fine line between rephrasing what’s on your resume and writing a good cover letter . Remember this:

Your best bet is to thoroughly research the company you’re applying to. Check their website, social media, PR coverage, and even their Crunchbase profile to see if they’ve had recent funding rounds.

Try to identify possible problems they may be facing and direct your cover letter in the directions of how you and your skill set can help them. Speak through your actions and results.

Don’t just say you’re good at something – prove it.

Cover letter call to action

A call to action is a vital and strategic part of any cover letter. It’s important to phrase it in a way that shows your excitement for the position but isn’t too pushy on the hiring manager.

Put yourself in the reader’s shoes. They’ve read your letter this far. The recruiter knows that you’ve done the research. They can see you’re a great fit, so don’t leave them hanging – give them the next steps.

Here’s an example of a great cover letter call to action:

A rule of thumb to follow in the call to action is to make it all about the company and not yourself.

Cover letter closer

Now that you know how to craft a great call-to-action sentence, it’s time to talk about the closer.

To be exact, we’re talking about the complimentary close. As a cover letter requires a degree of formality, it’s best to keep the complementary close simple. Here’s a list of our favorites that you can use:

• Respectfully,

Followed by an empty line and your first and last name.

On another note, if you’re applying at a company where you know the hiring manager or the overall culture is informal, you can opt for a more relaxed complimentary close. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Warm regards
• Yours truly
• Have a wonderful day

Keep in mind that those should be saved for the right occasion, and we recommend going with a more professional closer . If you aren’t sure, nothing beats a “Thank you,”. 🙂

Creatives are among the most sought-after employees. They’re usually the people who come up with original ideas that give companies a competitive advantage. In the cover letter above, Jack has done a great job explaining his background in gender advocacy, social issues, and political science – all venues much needed in modern-day companies.

Furthermore, Jack has a detailed explanation of how he can help the company, focusing on solid examples and channels he considers to be his strengths. From social media to analytics, he’s done a great job of helping the hiring manager picture Jack as one of the team.

Finally, the call to action and closing paragraphs are spot on, giving the hiring manager a nudge to give him a call.

Career change cover letter example

My name is Nicholas and for the past 5 years, I’ve been the general manager for Coffi&Biscuits where I managed to increase the YoY revenue of the shop 10x in the past three years.

I was excited to see the Business Development Manager position for Bootstrap IO, as it is a career change that I’m looking forward to making.

Managing a team of 15 taught me a lot about budgeting, planning, and organizing the workload. I can help you with expanding your team in the next quarter and reach your goal of launching your new product across the United States.

I’d love to jump on a Zoom meeting with you to further discuss joining the team. I’m available at your disposal.

Nicholas Costa

Why this career change cover letter is good

Taking a closer look at Nicholas’ cover letter, you’ll see that he was concise, went straight to the point, and most importantly explained how his current skill will help the company grow.

Writing a career change cover letter is all about showing the hiring manager how your skills can help them overcome challenges the business is facing.

Nicholas has done a great job explaining his skills. Furthermore, he’s done the research and knows what the future plans of the company are.

His call to action section further drives the point that he’s convinced of his skills and that he can help the company.

You can use this cover letter when:

• You want a new job in a field unrelated to your current one.
• When you want to apply for an internal position in another department.

Entry-level cover letter example

I am applying for the position of Drug Research Specialist (Entry Level) that I came across at PANDA Corp. I believe that my academic experience matches your requirements.

During my studies, I have gained experience in the field of medicine and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, during my master’s program, I’ve completed my diploma in Pharmaceutical Research, which helped me in better understanding the processes and best practices in drug development.

Additionally, under the ImunoHelp program, I have undergone various professional and self-development training. Each training permanently added to my skill set.

Having spent the last seven years of my life outside the United States, my home country has made me multicultural. My vibrant experience traveling and studying at different institutions, in UAE, USA, Portugal, and France have undoubtedly contributed to my open-mindedness, creativity, and adaptability, as well as working in a diverse and multilingual team.

I’m excited to have the opportunity to discuss how my skills can help your company grow. I’m available for an interview at your convenience.

Anna Kendrick

Why this entry-level cover letter example is good

When you’re applying for an entry-level position, there’s a high chance that you’ll be competing with a lot of people that don’t have a lot of experience on their resume.

Most likely, you’re about to graduate, and you’re looking for your first job. Taking a look at Anna’s cover letter, you can immediately see that she’s focusing on her studies.

When you’re writing a cover letter for an entry-level position , focusing on your strengths is vital – after all, the hiring managers know that you won’t have years of experience behind your back. That’s why you have to show your strengths. Add what you’ve studied, any additional courses or training that you’ve been a part of, with a focus on what you’ve learned there.

General cover letter example

Dear Mr John,

I was pleased to see you're hiring for the barista position at Grey Raven Coffee Bar. As an experienced barista with 6 years of professional experience I’m confident that I would be a valuable asset to Grey Raven and the local community you serve.

I’m recently left my job at one of New York's biggest coffee bars, where I’ve honed my barista skills and even won a few competitions. While employed here, I have successfully managed to work in a bustling environment, serving more than 2,000 clients per day.

I’m confident that my excellent work ethic, unparalleled attention to detail, and knack for delicious coffee-based drinks will make me an immediate asset at Grey Raven, and allow me to contribute to the team’s success.

I look forward to discussing the barista position and my qualifications with you in more detail. I’m available to talk at your soonest convenience. I’ll be in touch next week to follow up, just to make sure you’ve received my application.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Cindy Parker

Why this general cover letter example is good

The general cover letter example is perfect if you’re an applicant that has some experience, or you just need a template to send out to a few jobs that you’ve applied for.

Copy the example above, change the name and accomplishments with yours and you’re ready to go. Just remember to personalize each cover letter to the job position you’re applying for.

Executive cover letter example

For the past 6 years, I've been successfully leading ACME Agency and increased YoY revenue by 150% every year for the past 4 years.

As the CEO of a creative agency, I think I have the skillset and vision needed to turn your agency into a market leader by partnering with top companies like Unilever, Google, and Apple.

I'm experienced in both company and franchise brand building. I build and lead high-performance teams that work both in online and offline campaigns.

Former employers will confirm, that I am a passionate leader who is hands-on when it comes to working smart and hard I am self-motivated and a highly dependable individual that is confident and culturally diverse.

I am a great communicator and I can convey information to anyone, regardless of where they are in the company hierarchy.

Whether monitoring performance, improving strategic plans, or managing the entire life-cycle of a project or product development, my references would confer that I exceed expectations by practicing the greatest level of expertise with professionalism whilst always being customer-centric.

Should you grant me an interview will be in a position to discuss in detail, how my skill set can be utilized to grow your business. I believe that your company is intent on reflecting positive growth and profitability and it would be my pleasure to actively contribute to the company’s future.

Kind Regards,

Nicholas Jasbin

Why this executive cover letter example is good

Nicholas goes above and beyond in describing his accomplishments and his soft skills in communication and management. He begins his cover letter directly with an accomplishment statement that will make him stand out from other applicants.

Further down, Nicholas collaborates on his experience working with large companies and building teams.

Intern cover letter example

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I am writing to apply for the internship position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board or Company Website]. As a motivated and aspiring [field of interest] professional, I am eager to gain practical experience and contribute to the success of your organization.

Throughout my academic journey in [relevant field of study], I have developed a strong foundation in [key skills or knowledge areas relevant to the internship]. I am excited to apply these skills in a real-world setting and further enhance my understanding of [specific area or industry]. Some highlights of my qualifications include:

[Relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate skills or knowledge]

[Extracurricular activities or volunteer work that showcase relevant experience or leadership]

[Technical skills or tools proficiency]

I am drawn to [Company Name] because of its reputation for [specific aspects of the company, such as innovation, community impact, or industry leadership]. I am particularly inspired by [specific projects, initiatives, or values of the company] and believe that my passion and dedication align well with your organization's goals.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to learn to the internship role. I have attached my resume for your review, and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and background make me an excellent fit for [Company Name]. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and learning from the talented professionals at [Company Name].

[Your Name]

Why is this a good cover letter:

College graduate cover letter example.

I am writing to express my interest in joining IBM as a [specific position]. As a recent graduate from [Your University] with a degree in [Your Major] and practical work experience, I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to IBM's innovative and forward-thinking environment.

During my time at [Your University], I gained a solid foundation in programming, data analysis, and software development. My coursework and projects have allowed me to develop proficiency in languages such as Python, Java, and SQL. I have also honed my skills in Agile methodologies, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products within tight deadlines.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have gained valuable experience through internships and part-time roles. As a [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], I worked on a team that developed a data-driven solution to optimize inventory management for a major retailer. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration, effective communication, and critical thinking when tackling complex challenges.

IBM's commitment to creating innovative solutions and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development aligns with my passion for technology and personal growth. I am confident that my academic background, work experience, and dedication to excellence make me a strong candidate for a role at IBM.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences can contribute to IBM's continued success and growth.

Middle management cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in the Middle Management position at Planet Fitness. With over [number of years] years of experience in the fitness industry and a proven track record in team leadership and operations management, I am confident in my ability to drive results and contribute positively to Planet Fitness's success.

As the [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], I led a team of [number] professionals, consistently surpassing performance targets and increasing customer satisfaction rates. My hands-on approach to team development and focus on continuous improvement enabled us to achieve a 20% increase in membership retention over two years.

My background in [relevant field, e.g., business administration] and passion for health and wellness have equipped me with the skills to efficiently manage budgets, streamline operations, and maintain a safe and welcoming environment for members and staff alike.

Planet Fitness's commitment to providing an inclusive, judgement-free atmosphere aligns with my values, and I am excited to contribute to the growth and development of both the team and the organization. I look forward to discussing how my experience and skills can benefit Planet Fitness in the Middle Management role.

Dear Graduate Admissions Committee,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the PhD program in Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. As a highly motivated individual with a passion for research and innovation, I am confident that my academic background and relevant experience make me an excellent candidate for this prestigious program.

I hold a Master's degree in [Your Major] from [Your University], where I graduated with honors. During my graduate studies, I conducted research on [specific research topic], leading to the publication of [number] peer-reviewed articles in reputable journals. This experience has fostered my ability to think critically, analyze complex problems, and communicate my findings effectively.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have gained practical experience through internships and research assistantships in leading engineering firms and labs. These experiences have allowed me to develop a strong foundation in [specific engineering skills, e.g., computational modeling, prototype development, etc.] and collaborate with diverse teams to drive innovation and solve real-world challenges.

UC Berkeley's renowned engineering program, with its focus on cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration, aligns with my research interests and career aspirations. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to work with esteemed faculty members and contribute to ongoing projects within the [specific research area] at Berkeley.

I am eager to join the UC Berkeley community and contribute to its tradition of excellence in research and education. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further.

A cover letter for a PhD position emphasizes the candidate's research accomplishments, potential, and alignment with the university's program. It highlights their eagerness to contribute to the academic community.

Gaps in employment cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in joining your esteemed Digital Marketing agency in the capacity of [specific position]. As a highly motivated and adaptable professional with diverse experience in marketing, I am confident that my skills and passion make me an excellent candidate for this role, despite the employment gaps in my resume.

During the time away from full-time employment, I have been actively engaged in freelance work and continued learning to keep up-to-date with the latest marketing trends and technologies. I have completed courses in SEO, content marketing, and social media management, which have allowed me to maintain and enhance my expertise in the field.

My prior experience includes working as a [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], where I managed multi-channel marketing campaigns, optimized web content for SEO, and collaborated with cross-functional teams to achieve company objectives. As a result, we experienced a 25% increase in organic search traffic and a 15% growth in online sales.

I have a proven track record of creating and executing effective digital marketing strategies, and I am well-versed in tools such as Google Analytics, AdWords, and various social media platforms. My ability to analyze data and drive informed decisions will be invaluable in driving results for your agency and its clients.

I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to your organization and build upon my career in digital marketing. I appreciate your consideration of my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further.

A cover letter addressing employment gaps focuses on the candidate's skill development and industry knowledge during the gap period. It highlights their relevant experience and accomplishments, while expressing their eagerness to contribute to the organization.

• Demonstrates the candidate's ability to drive results for the agency and its clients

Temporary-to-permanent employee cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in transitioning from a temporary to a permanent employee at Jacksonville High School. Over the course of my temporary assignment as a [Specific Position], I have had the privilege of contributing to the school's mission and growth, and I am excited about the prospect of continuing to do so in a long-term capacity.

Throughout my time at Jacksonville High School, I have been actively involved in various aspects of [Specific Position's Responsibilities], including [examples of tasks or initiatives, e.g., curriculum development, student mentorship, or extracurricular activities]. I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of these initiatives on the students, and I am committed to making an even greater contribution to their academic and personal growth.

My experience at Jacksonville High School has allowed me to develop strong relationships with faculty, staff, and students. I have honed my communication and collaboration skills, enabling me to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams to achieve common goals. My dedication to excellence and my passion for education make me an ideal candidate for a permanent role at the school.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked at Jacksonville High School on a temporary basis, and I am eager to continue contributing to the school's mission and success as a permanent team member. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to discussing my candidacy further.

A cover letter for a temporary-to-permanent position emphasizes the candidate's contributions during the temporary assignment and their commitment to the organization's mission. It demonstrates their eagerness to make a lasting impact in a permanent role.

Volunteer cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering at Soul Soup Kitchen in New York City. As a compassionate individual with a strong commitment to community service, I am eager to contribute my time and skills to help support the mission of providing nutritious meals to those in need.

I have experience volunteering in various roles and capacities, including [specific examples of previous volunteer work, e.g., organizing food drives, mentoring underprivileged youth, etc.]. These experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, teamwork, and adaptability when working within a dynamic and diverse community setting.

In addition to my background in volunteer work, I possess valuable skills that would be beneficial to Soul Soup Kitchen. As a [your profession or specific skill set, e.g., professional chef, nutritionist, or event coordinator], I am confident that my expertise can help enhance the quality of the meals and services provided to the individuals who rely on your organization.

I am excited about the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need and to support the vital work being done at Soul Soup Kitchen. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experiences can contribute to the ongoing success of your organization.

Thank you for considering my application.

A cover letter for a volunteer position showcases the candidate's compassion and commitment to community service. It highlights their relevant skills and experiences and conveys their enthusiasm for making a positive impact on those in need.

Unemployed person cover letter example

I am writing to express my strong interest in the [specific position] at [Company Name]. As an experienced professional with a diverse skill set and a passion for [Industry], I am confident that my background and dedication make me an excellent candidate for this role, despite my current unemployed status.

During my time away from full-time employment, I have been actively engaged in professional development and skill-building, ensuring that I remain up-to-date with industry trends and technologies. I have completed courses in [relevant skills or certifications], which have allowed me to enhance my expertise and maintain my competitiveness in the job market.

My prior experience includes working as a [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], where I [specific accomplishments and responsibilities, e.g., managed a team of X professionals, increased sales by X%, etc.]. This experience has allowed me to develop strong [relevant skills, e.g., leadership, project management, communication, etc.] that I am eager to apply to a new role at [Company Name].

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and knowledge to your organization and continue my career growth in the [Industry] field. I appreciate your consideration of my application and look forward to the chance to discuss my candidacy further.

A cover letter for an unemployed candidate addresses their current employment status while focusing on their skills, expertise, and industry knowledge. It emphasizes their relevant experience and eagerness to contribute to the organization.

Networking cover letter example

I recently had the pleasure of attending the UX/UI Design conference, where I learned about your creative agency and the exciting work you do in the field of user experience and user interface design. I was particularly impressed by [specific project or aspect discussed at the conference], and I am writing to express my interest in exploring potential opportunities to collaborate or contribute to your team.

As a passionate UX/UI designer with experience in [specific areas of expertise, e.g., user research, wireframing, prototyping, etc.], I have worked on various projects that have successfully enhanced user experiences and driven business results. My portfolio showcases a range of design solutions that prioritize usability, aesthetics, and functionality.

In addition to my technical skills, I possess strong communication and collaboration abilities, which enable me to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams and ensure that all stakeholders' perspectives are considered in the design process. My dedication to user-centered design and my passion for creating intuitive and engaging digital experiences align with your agency's mission and values.

I would be thrilled to learn more about your team, discuss my background, and explore any potential opportunities to work together. I have attached my resume and portfolio for your review and would welcome the opportunity to connect further.

Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you soon.

A networking cover letter establishes a connection through a shared event or interest and highlights the candidate's skills and experiences. It expresses their interest in exploring potential opportunities to collaborate or contribute to the organization.

Referral cover letter example

I recently had a conversation with [Referrer's Name], who mentioned that your company is seeking a talented financial analyst. As a highly skilled professional in the field of financial analysis, I am excited to express my interest in joining your team and contributing my expertise to [Company Name].

During my tenure as a Financial Analyst at [Previous Company], I played a pivotal role in analyzing financial data, forecasting trends, and developing strategic recommendations for business growth. My strong analytical and quantitative skills have enabled me to identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue generation, resulting in a [percentage] increase in profitability over the past year.

I am well-versed in various financial analysis tools and software, including [specific tools, e.g., Excel, SQL, or Tableau], which have allowed me to efficiently manage large datasets and generate actionable insights for decision-making. My ability to communicate complex financial information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences sets me apart as a valuable asset to any organization.

[Referrer's Name] spoke highly of the collaborative and innovative culture at [Company Name], and I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to your organization. I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to speaking with you soon.

A referral cover letter leverages a personal connection to establish credibility and highlight the candidate's expertise and accomplishments in the field. It expresses their enthusiasm for the company's culture and values.

Cold call cover letter example

I am writing to express my strong interest in a sales position at Amazon. As an accomplished sales professional with a proven track record of driving revenue growth and exceeding targets, I am confident that my skills and passion make me an excellent candidate for your team.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, identify new business opportunities, and close deals effectively. In my most recent role as a Sales Representative at [Previous Company], I was responsible for a [percentage] increase in sales over the course of two years, contributing significantly to the company's overall growth.

My success in sales can be attributed to my deep understanding of customer needs, excellent communication skills, and the ability to adapt my approach to different industries and market conditions. I am well-versed in various sales methodologies and CRM tools, ensuring that I can quickly integrate into your team and make an immediate impact on your bottom line.

I have long admired Amazon for its commitment to innovation and customer-centric approach, and I believe my experience and values align with your organization's mission. Although I am aware that there may not be an open position at this time, I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my skills and background can contribute to Amazon's continued success in the future.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review and look forward to the chance to discuss my candidacy further.

Job not yet posted cover letter example

I recently came across DevArchitects and was thoroughly impressed by your company's portfolio and innovative approach to software development. Although I understand that there may not be an open developer position at this time, I am eager to express my interest in exploring potential opportunities to contribute my skills and expertise to your team.

As a seasoned software developer with over [number of years] of experience in [programming languages, e.g., Java, Python, JavaScript, etc.], I have a proven track record of developing high-quality software solutions for a diverse range of clients and industries. Some highlights of my career include:

Successfully developing and deploying [specific project or application]

Leading a team of developers to complete [specific project or initiative]

Continuously staying updated on the latest industry trends and technologies

My strong analytical and problem-solving skills, coupled with my passion for creating innovative software, make me a valuable asset to any development team. I am confident that my expertise can contribute to the ongoing success and growth of DevArchitects.

I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss any potential opportunities to work together. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and helping DevArchitects continue to excel in the software development industry.

A cover letter for a job that is not yet posted proactively reaches out to a company to express interest in potential opportunities. It highlights the candidate's skills and expertise and demonstrates admiration for the company's work.

• Expresses admiration for the company's portfolio and innovative approach

Follow-up cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my recent application for the Business Analyst position at [Company Name]. I am eager to reiterate my strong interest in this role and my belief that my skills and experience make me an excellent fit for your team.

Since submitting my application, I have continued to research [Company Name] and have been particularly impressed by [specific project or initiative]. As a Business Analyst with experience in [relevant skills, e.g., data analysis, process improvement, project management, etc.], I am confident that my expertise can contribute to the ongoing success of projects like these at your company. Some key aspects of my background include:

[Specific accomplishment or responsibility from previous position]

Proficiency in [relevant tools or software, e.g., Excel, SQL, or Tableau]

Strong communication and collaboration abilities

I understand that you may be reviewing numerous applications for this position, but I wanted to take a moment to reiterate my enthusiasm for this opportunity and my strong belief that my skills and experiences align with [Company Name]'s values and goals.

Please find my resume attached for your reference, and do not hesitate to reach out if you require any additional information. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you soon.

A follow-up cover letter reiterates the candidate's interest in a position after submitting an initial application. It emphasizes their skills and experience, reaffirms their alignment with the company's values, and demonstrates continued enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Job transfer request cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in transferring to an Operations Manager position within our organization at a different location due to personal reasons for relocation. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at [Current Location] and have learned a great deal, but I believe a move to [New Location] would be beneficial for both my personal and professional growth.

In my current role as Operations Manager, I have successfully managed a team of [number of employees] and implemented process improvements that have led to increased efficiency and cost savings. Some of the key accomplishments during my tenure include:

[Specific accomplishment or responsibility from your current position]

Implementation of [specific project or initiative that led to improvements]

[Any awards or recognitions received within the company]

I am confident that my skills and experience would make me an invaluable asset to the team at [New Location]. I understand that transferring to a new location might involve some challenges, but I am committed to making a seamless transition and maintaining the same level of dedication and performance that I have demonstrated at [Current Location].

I have attached my resume for your review, and I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my request further. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to your response.

A job transfer request letter for relocation expresses the candidate's interest in transferring to a different location within the same organization. It highlights their accomplishments in their current role and demonstrates their commitment to maintaining the same level of performance at the new location.

Promotion or department transfer cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. As a dedicated Compliance Manager at [Company Name], I am writing to express my interest in a promotion or department transfer within our organization. I believe that my skills, experience, and dedication to our company make me an excellent candidate for a new challenge and an opportunity to contribute at an even higher level.

In my current role, I have successfully led a team of compliance professionals, ensuring that our company adheres to regulatory standards and maintains a strong reputation for integrity. Some key accomplishments during my tenure include:

Development and implementation of [specific compliance program or initiative]

I am confident that my expertise in compliance management, combined with my passion for [Company Name]'s mission, would make me a valuable asset in a new role within our organization. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss potential opportunities for promotion or department transfer further.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] in an even greater capacity.

A promotion or department transfer cover letter expresses the candidate's interest in taking on a new challenge within the same organization. It highlights their accomplishments and successes in their current role and demonstrates their commitment to the company's values and goals.

• Demonstrates a deep understanding of the company's unique approach and goals

Value proposition cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. As an experienced and results-driven Business Developer, I am excited to apply for the opportunity to join Handy, a company that shares my passion for exceptional service and customer satisfaction. With a proven track record of generating new business and creating lasting partnerships, I am confident that I can contribute to the continued growth and success of your organization.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated an ability to identify opportunities, develop innovative strategies, and drive sales growth. My unique value proposition includes:

• Exceptional relationship-building abilities, fostering trust and collaboration with clients and partners

I am eager to bring my skills, experience, and dedication to excellence to Handy, and help drive the company's expansion and continued success. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how my unique value proposition aligns with your organization's goals and vision.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you soon.

A cover letter with a value proposition clearly communicates the unique benefits that the candidate brings to the company, setting them apart from other applicants. By showcasing their distinct skills, experiences, and accomplishments, the candidate can demonstrate their ability to create tangible results and make a positive impact on the organization.

Email cover letter examples

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Email Address]

[Today's Date]

[Recipient's Name]

[Company Address]

Subject: Application for Marketing Analyst Position - [Your Name]

I am writing to apply for the Marketing Analyst position at Danone, which I recently discovered on [Job Board or Company Website]. With a strong background in data analysis, market research, and a passion for the consumer goods industry, I am confident that my skills and experience make me a perfect fit for this role.

In my previous role as a Market Research Analyst at [Previous Company], I successfully managed multiple research projects, identified emerging market trends, and provided actionable insights to guide marketing strategies. Some key accomplishments include:

• [Any awards or recognitions received within the industry or previous company]

Please find my resume attached for your review. I am eager to contribute my expertise to Danone's marketing team and help drive the company's continued success in the consumer goods market. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how my skills and experiences align with Danone's values and goals.

An email cover letter with a resume is a concise message sent electronically to apply for a position. It highlights the candidate's skills and experience, demonstrates their interest in the role, and includes an attached resume for further review.

Email cover letter for a part-time job

Four Seasons Restaurant

Subject: Application for Part-Time Server Position - [Your Name]

I hope this message finds you well. I recently came across the part-time Server position at Four Seasons Restaurant and am excited to express my interest in joining your team. With my experience in providing exceptional customer service and passion for the hospitality industry, I am confident that I would be an excellent addition to your staff.

In my previous role as a Server at [Previous Company], I consistently received positive feedback from customers for my attentive service and friendly demeanor. Some key highlights from my experience include:

Please find my resume attached for your review. I am eager to contribute my skills and dedication to the Four Seasons Restaurant and help create memorable dining experiences for your guests. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

An email cover letter for a part-time job is a brief message sent electronically to apply for a position with reduced working hours. It emphasizes the candidate's relevant skills and experiences in the field, demonstrating their interest in the role, and includes an attached resume for further review.

Email cover letter for a summer job

Your Local Fisherman Store

Subject: Application for Summer Job - [Your Name]

I hope this message finds you well. As a student with a strong interest in fishing and the outdoors, I am excited to apply for a summer job at Your Local Fisherman store. I believe my passion for fishing, combined with my excellent customer service skills, make me an ideal candidate for this position.

While I have not yet worked in a retail setting, I have gained valuable customer service experience through volunteering at various local events, where I interacted with diverse groups of people and ensured their needs were met. Some key highlights from my experience include:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Please find my resume attached for your review. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm and dedication to Your Local Fisherman store and help create a welcoming and knowledgeable environment for fellow fishing enthusiasts. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

An email cover letter for a summer job is a concise message sent electronically to apply for a temporary position during the summer months. It highlights the candidate's relevant skills, experiences, and interests, demonstrating their enthusiasm for the role, and includes an attached resume for further review.

Cover Letter Examples FAQs

Should i address an employment gap in my cover letter.

If you think that addressing your employment gap is important, then definitely include a sentence about it. With that being said, employment gaps aren’t uncommon and most recruiters would love to know more about your unemployment gap as it can help them understand more about you.

Should I include information about my availability?

Of course! Cover letters are meant to help clear up any questions that your resume may not. Adding a sentence to the body segment of your motivation letter is a great way to do so.

Can I mention that I’m fine with relocating for the job?

Yes. Oftentimes, cover letters are the perfect place to mention that you’re okay with moving cities or even states if you get the job. Resumes generally only give you the opportunity to mention where you live, but not that you’re open to relocating.

Should I mention anything about the salary in the cover letter?

This is a bit of a double-edged sword. If the salary for the position is included in the job ad, and you’re okay with it, then yes, you can say that in the cover letter. Otherwise, don’t talk in the cover letter about the salary. Save it for the first or second interview instead.

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The Best Professional Cover Letter Samples

What the Best Cover Letters Do Well

How to use cover letter samples, review cover letter examples, cover letter template, cover letters listed by occupation, cover letters listed by type of letter.

• More Cover Letter Samples and Tips

How to Personalize Your Cover Letter

When applying for a job, it's always a good idea to  include a cover letter , unless the employer specifies that they only want an application or a resume. Even if a job listing does not specifically request a cover letter, including one can be a terrific way to summarize your skills and experiences and explain (in more detail than in a resume) why you are an ideal candidate for the job.

What's most important is writing a cover letter that shows the hiring manager what makes you one of the best candidates for the position.

Think of your cover letter as your introductory “sales pitch,” your golden opportunity to make a positive first impression on a company. 

Reviewing cover letter samples is a great place to start before writing your own letter. You can then download a template to get started creating your own letter.

Your cover letter should be well-written and provide some  sense of your personality  and professionalism. It should also be  targeted to the position  for which you are applying. Don't send a generic letter when you apply for jobs. Most employers get many applications for every open job, and your cover letter and resume need to show that you've taken the time to write compelling application material that shows your interest in working for the company in this role.

Make clear and persuasive connections between your experiences and the skills required to excel in the job, using the skills listed in the job announcement’s “Preferred Qualifications” section as your guide. Taking the time to  match your qualifications to the company's job requirements  will show the employer you're a strong match for the job.

Your cover letter is one of the first things the hiring manager will see (along with your  resume ), so make sure that it grabs the reader’s attention and entices them to give your resume a serious review.

These professionally written samples will help you write and  format your cover letter  as either a Word document or a text version that you can send as an email message.

Reviewing examples also gives you ideas for the language you might want to use, the information you should include, and how to format the letter so all the required information is included and there is plenty of white space on the page. Then, spend some time customizing your letter:

• Take the details from your resume and use them to personalize the sample that you download.
• Be sure to replace the text in the example with your own experience and qualifications for the job.
• Don't forget to double-check that all your personal information (address, phone, email, etc.) is accurate before you click send or upload the letter.

Be sure to customize your letter to fit your own skills and experience and to target the specific job for which you are applying. 

Use these cover letter samples to get ideas for your own cover letters so you can show prospective employers why you should be selected for an interview.

Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) to get started, or see below for many more examples listed by type of job, candidate, and letter format.

Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Victoria Hernandez 12 Maple Street Citytown, IL 60416 555-555-5555 victoria.hernandez@email.com

July 20, 2020

James Smith Hiring Manager Citytown Therapy 35 Oak Avenue Citytown, IL 60416

Dear Mr. Smith,

I was thrilled to see your ad for an occupational therapist at Citytown Therapy. I’m a licensed occupational therapist with five years of experience providing excellent care to patients ranging from toddlers to mature adults. I’d love to put my skills to work for your clinic.

In reference to your requirements in the job description, I have:

• Experience assessing patients’ fine motor and sensory skills
• Practical knowledge of creating and implementing care plans
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written
• Excellent organization and multitasking skills
• A proven track record of compassionate, effective care
• CPR certification

I’d appreciate the opportunity to discuss the position and your needs for the role. Please contact me at your convenience and let me know how I can help you.

Victoria Hernandez (signature hard copy letter)

Victoria Hernandez

List of Cover Letter Samples

Have a look at this alphabetical list of great cover letter examples listed by occupation. Use these examples to get ideas for your own cover letters.

• Academic Advisor
• Academic Cover Letter
• Administration/Business
• Administrative Coordinator
• Admissions Counselor
• Athletic Director
• Biomedical Engineer
• Business/Technical
• Camp Counselor
• College Graduate
• College Student
• Communications
• Communications Director 
• Construction Management
• Customer Service
• Database Administrator
• Development/Museum Position
• Director of Operations
• Editorial Assistant
• Education/Alternative Education
• Entry Level (analyst)
• Entry Level (finance)
• Entry Level (marketing)
• Event Planner
• Faculty Position
• Finance Internship
• Flight Attendant
• Front End Web Developer
• Hair Stylist
• Higher Education Communications
• Information Security Analyst
• Informational Meeting Request Letter
• Letter of Intent
• Letter of Interest
• Market Research Analyst
• Marketing Assistant 
• Media Relations
• Occupational Therapist
• Office Assistant
• Part-Time Job
• Photographer
• Physical Therapist
• Programmer Analyst
• Receptionist
• Recruiting Manager
• Research Technician
• Retail Management
• Sales Associate 
• Sales, Marketing and PR
• Scientific Research
• Scrum Master
• Social Media
• Social Worker
• Software Developer
• Software Engineer
• Special Education
• Speech Pathologist
• Store Manager
• Summer Cashier
• Summer Hotel Front Desk/Bellhop
• Teaching Assistant/Tutor
• Technical Support/Help Desk
• Transportation Planning
• Web Content Manager
• Web Content Specialist
• Web Design Specialist
• Writer/Freelance

These different types of cover letters fit a variety of special circumstances, and letter format options.

• Applying for More Than One Job (multiple jobs at the same company)
• Block and Modified Block Format Cover Letters (types of cover letter formats)
• Career Change (when the job is a career shift)
• Career Office Referral (referral from a college career office)
• Cold Contact Cover Letter (applying for jobs that aren't advertised)
• Email Cover Letters (cover letters included in an email message)
• Employee Referral (referral from a company employee)
• Job Promotion Cover Letters (applying for a promotion)
• Job Transfer Request Letter (transferring jobs)
• Job Transfer Request Letter Example (relocation) (requesting a relocation)
• Prospecting Letter (outreach to prospective employers)
• Referral (letter with a referral)
• Referred by a Contact (referral from a mutual contact)
• Request a Meeting (requesting an informational meeting)
• Salary History (includes salary history)
• Salary Range (includes a salary range)
• Salary Requirements (includes salary requirements)
• Targeted Cover Letters (targeted to a specific job)
• Temp to Perm Cover Letter Example (request a permanent position)
• Transferable Skills (includes transferable skills)
• Unadvertised Openings (apply for unadvertised jobs)
• Value Proposition Letter Sample (show how you will add value)

More Cover Letter Samples and Writing Tips

Need more inspiration? Here are  more cover letter examples , including templates you can customize to create your own cover letters. You should also explore these top 10 cover letter writing tips , and these  5 steps to cover letter success .

If you are having trouble with a particular section of your cover letter, check out these articles on  cover letter salutations ,  cover letter closings , and  parts of a cover letter .

It's acceptable to alter the  standard format of a cover letter  example:

• For instance, if the example has three paragraphs, and you only want to include two paragraphs, you can do so.
• If you want to include bullet lists instead of paragraphs, it's fine to reformat your letter. This is your opportunity to sell your qualifications to the company, so take the time to  make your letter stand out from the crowd of applicants .
• You shouldn't include everything that's on your resume in the letter. Highlight the most relevant accomplishments as they relate to the job for which you're applying. The more focused and personalized your letter is, the better your chances of getting the interview.

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Three excellent cover letter examples

Cover letters are the first chance you have to impress an employer – they’re not just a protective jacket for your CV. Here’s our guide on what to include and how to format them

• More CV and cover letter templates
• Looking for a job? Explore the range of vacancies on Guardian Jobs and find the perfect role for you

The first thing a potential employer sees in your job application is the cover letter. This doesn’t just support your CV – it’s an opportunity for you to stand out from the crowd and persuade the recruiter to put you through to the next round.

Be wary of spending hours on perfecting your CV at the expense of your cover letter. If you need some inspiration on what to include and what format to use, here are our helpful guides – just remember not to copy them as exact templates.

1. Standard, conservative style

This is ideal for sectors such as business, law, accountancy and retail. For more creative sectors, a letter like this might be less appealing, and could work against you.

Dear Mr Black, Please find enclosed my CV in application for the post advertised in the Guardian on 30 November. The nature of my degree course has prepared me for this position. It involved a great deal of independent research, requiring initiative, self-motivation and a wide range of skills. For one course, [insert course], an understanding of the [insert sector] industry was essential. I found this subject very stimulating. I am a fast and accurate writer, with a keen eye for detail and I should be very grateful for the opportunity to progress to market reporting. I am able to take on the responsibility of this position immediately, and have the enthusiasm and determination to ensure that I make a success of it. Thank you for taking the time to consider this application and I look forward to hearing from you in the near future. Yours sincerely

2. Standard speculative letter

This may vary according to the nature of the organisation and the industry you’re applying to.

Dear Mr Brown, I am writing to enquire if you have any vacancies in your company. I enclose my CV for your information. As you can see, I have had extensive vacation work experience in office environments, the retail sector and service industries, giving me varied skills and the ability to work with many different types of people. I believe I could fit easily into your team. I am a conscientious person who works hard and pays attention to detail. I’m flexible, quick to pick up new skills and eager to learn from others. I also have lots of ideas and enthusiasm. I’m keen to work for a company with a great reputation and high profile like [insert company name]. I have excellent references and would be delighted to discuss any possible vacancy with you at your convenience. In case you do not have any suitable openings at the moment, I would be grateful if you would keep my CV on file for any future possibilities. Yours sincerely

3. Letter for creative jobs

We’ve used the example of a copywriter but you can adapt it for your profession. The aim of a creative letter is to be original and show you have imagination, but understand what the job entails. Balance is essential: don’t be too wacky, or it will turn off the reader.

Dear Ms Green, · Confused by commas? · Puzzled by parenthesis? · Stumped by spelling? · Perturbed by punctuation? · Annoyed at the apostrophe? (And alliteration?) Well, you’re not alone. It seems that fewer and fewer people can write. Unfortunately, there are still a lot of people who can read. So they’ll spot a gaffe from a mile off. And that means it’s a false economy, unless you’re 100% sure of yourself, to write your own materials. (Or to let clients do it for themselves.) To have materials properly copywritten is, when one considers the whole process of publishing materials and the impact that the client wishes to make, a minor expense. Sloppiness loses clients, loses customers. There is an answer. Me. Firm quotes are free. You can see some of what I do on my multilingual website at [insert web address]. If you’d like, I can get some samples out to you within 24 hours. And, if you use me, you’ll have some sort of guarantee that you can sleep soundly as those tens of thousands of copies are rolling off the presses. Luck shouldn’t come into it! With kindest regards

Other helpful resources

How to write a perfect CV and cover letter

Applying for jobs without experience? How to build and sell your skills

Five steps to the perfect graduate CV

School-leavers and graduates: how to write your first CV

How to write a personal statement for your CV

CV templates to fit every stage of your career

Looking for a job? Browse Guardian Jobs for your next career step.

• Guardian Careers
• CV and cover letter examples
• Covering letters

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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.

• ‘I Had a Great Job Interview — Why Haven’t I Heard Back?’
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