short cover letter assistant

15 Short Cover Letter Examples & Step-by-Step Guide for 2024

You’re preparing your job application, and your resume is all set and ready to go.

But the job market is competitive, and you know hiring managers don’t spend a lot of time on individual applications.

Unfortunately, your resume only has so much space for you to convey your skills and experience. How can you tell your full story without losing the hiring manager’s interest?

This is where the short cover letter comes into play.

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• What Is a Short Cover Letter?

6 Steps to Writing a Short Cover Letter

15 short cover letter examples.

By the end of this guide, you'll be equipped with all the tools needed to create a short cover letter that stands out.

So, let's get started!

What Is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a document you can submit alongside your CV or resume for a job application.

When done right, a cover letter complements your resume by adding a personal touch to your job application. It's your chance to speak directly to the hiring manager, giving life to the bullet points on your resume.

Think of it as a conversation starter. Unlike a resume, it lets you get into the details of your skills and experiences and express your enthusiasm for the job, not just list your qualifications.

This personal introduction can be a game changer for your job application since it helps paint a complete picture of you as a professional, using your own words.

Do you still think your resume needs improvement? Check out our detailed guide to learn how to make a resume .

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

The ideal length of a cover letter is usually between half a page and one page.

The word count is typically between 250 and 400 words. However, if the job ad specifies how long the cover letter should be, then make sure you abide by that. 

Generally, your cover letter should never be longer than the recommended length. Hiring managers don’t want to read your life story, and if they see a very long cover letter, they probably won’t even bother with it.

Just make sure to pay attention to your cover letter’s format , too. It should have at least three paragraphs consisting of three to five sentences each, but no more than six paragraphs. 

This helps give your cover letter a neat layout and makes it easier to read.

When Should You Write a Short Cover Letter?

There are certain situations when a short cover letter is the best companion to your resume, including: 

• Requirement from the job ad. If the job ad specifically asks for a brief cover letter, it's important to stick to that. This both shows attention to detail and that you can follow instructions.
• Restricted character limit.   When you’re applying through an online platform that has strict word count or character limits, you may want to write a short cover letter. This way, you can stay within the required limits without sacrificing any essential information.
• Email application. If you're expanding your professional network or sending a job application through email, the person receiving your message may prefer something brief and to the point. A shorter cover letter gets your message across without overwhelming the reader, and it makes it more likely that they'll read and remember your application.
• Industry standard. Certain industries, like tech startups, value straightforward communication. Here, a short cover letter can make a stronger impact than a longer one. It shows the hiring manager that you can communicate effectively and that you value the reader's time.
• Limited experience. If you're early in your career or amid a career change and you don't have a lot of relevant experience, a short cover letter can be more powerful. It allows you to focus solely on what you can offer, so every word counts.

Writing a short cover letter is easy once you know the process.

Just follow these simple steps:

#1. Plan Ahead of Writing

Before you write your cover letter , create an outline.

Having an outline for your short cover letter can help you write a more effective text, and it can help you see which crucial points you’ve covered.

An outline also helps keep your cover letter focused and coherent. It makes sure you stick to the most relevant details of your background, without any unnecessary details that could make you go over the word count.

#2. Take Time to Reflect

To get the ball rolling on writing your short cover letter, start by asking yourself some questions.

The goal of these questions is to help you pinpoint what the hiring manager wants to know and to make sure every word on your cover letter adds value to your job application.

Here are some questions your short cover should always answer:

• What excites you about this company and this specific role?
• Which of your skills and achievements are most relevant to the job ?
• How have you made a measurable contribution in your previous roles?
• How can you, based on everything so far, contribute to the company?

Don’t worry if the first draft of your text doesn’t look perfect. Any writer can tell you that the perfect text takes time and careful editing.

#3. Follow the Standard Cover Letter Structure

Your short cover letter should always be structured neatly and follow the same guidelines a regular cover letter would.

Here’s what that includes:

• Cover Letter Header. The very top of your short cover letter should include a header. We recommend choosing something that matches your resume. This is where your essential contact information is going to be, along with the hiring manager’s contact details.
• Personalized Greeting. Always address your cover letter to the person who’s going to be reading it. Do some research to find their name, and forget the age-old “To Whom It May Concern.” We recommend using something like “Dear Ms. Smith” or “Dear Axel Smith" for a professional yet personalized touch.
• Opening Paragraph. The first paragraph is the introduction to the rest of your cover letter. Use it to mention your background, such as your education or job title , and explain why you’re interested in the role. Include one or two of your most impressive achievements to pique the hiring manager’s curiosity and make them read the rest of your cover letter.
• Main Body. The next paragraphs should focus on how you’re qualified for the position and why the hiring manager should choose you over other applicants. Emphasize your essential skills and any relevant certifications that make you stand out from the crowd. Mention why you’re a good match for the company, such as the common values you share with them or how you look forward to working on some of their interesting projects.
• Conclusion. End your cover letter by quickly recapping your key selling points, then add a call to action and a professional closing line. Urging the hiring manager to get in touch with you to discuss your application increases the likelihood that they actually will.

#4. Shorten Your Text

Once you’ve written your cover letter, it’s time to make sure it’s short.

It’s easy to get carried away when writing. When you’re describing your professional experience and passion for the industry you’re applying to, you might feel like there’s a lot you need to explain.

But the key to writing a short cover letter is to cut away everything that doesn’t need to be there.

Hiring managers don't have time to lose, and they quickly skim through tons of applications. If you want your short cover letter to grab their attention, you need to make sure you’re only focusing on the most important information and that your text is easy to follow.

While editing your text, remove any mention of skills or experiences that aren’t relevant to the job you’re applying for. You want every sentence in your brief cover letter to be impactful and memorable, not a novel about your life story.

#5. Proofread Carefully

One of the biggest cover letter mistakes is forgetting to double-check for any spelling errors.

Typos and bad grammar are some of the biggest deal-breakers for hiring managers. In fact, nearly 80% of hiring managers will reject an application if they see spelling mistakes .

Always read your cover letter carefully to catch any mistakes, and use tools like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar.

You can even get a friend or relative to read your cover letter for you, just in case you and the spell-checking tool let something slip by.

#6. Use a Cover Letter Template

Design can’t be ignored when you’re writing a short cover letter.

After all, before the hiring manager reads your cover letter, they’re going to look at it. And with less text on the page, how your cover letter looks becomes increasingly important.

That’s why, when creating your cover letter, you have to carefully adjust the layout, tweak the page margins, set the line spacing, choose the most appropriate font, and make sure your text never exceeds the word count.

Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be that hard.

Just use one of our cover letter templates ! Try our free resume builder and pick one of our resume templates to create a matching application in minutes.

We've collaborated with hiring experts worldwide to create templates that check all the boxes when it comes to industry requirements and visual appeal. Try them now for a stress-free application process!

Need some inspiration? Check out these short cover letter examples for different professions and levels of experience.

#1. College Student Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information:

Jamie Smith  

College Student  

555-123-4567  

[email protected]  

Sacramento, CA  

linkedin.com/in/made-up-person  

Amanda Johnson

Made Up Marketing Group

456 Maple Drive

Boston, MA 01235

Dear Ms. Johnson,

As a recent Boston University Business Administration graduate with a marketing focus, I am excited to apply for the entry-level marketing position at Made Up Marketing Group. My academic and hands-on experience, including a significant project that boosted a local bookstore's online sales by 20% in three months, has equipped me with solid marketing principles and digital tool proficiency.

My internship at Bright Innovations honed my skills in social media campaigns, consumer data analysis, and event coordination, deepening my understanding of consumer behavior and targeted marketing. I admire Made Up Marketing Group's innovative branding and commitment to team creativity and growth. I am eager to bring my background and passion to your dynamic team.

Looking forward to discussing how I can contribute to your company's success.

Jamie Smith

Check out a full college student cover letter example here.

#2. Substitute Teacher Short Cover Letter Example

Contact information:

Liam Thompson

Substitute Teacher

413-554-7890

[email protected]

Providence, RI

linkedin.com/in/made-up-person

Principal Jennifer Walters

St. Mary Academy - Bay View

Riverside, RI

Dear Principal Walters,

I'm eager to express my interest in the substitute teacher role at St. Mary Academy - Bay View for the 2023-2024 school year. My BA degree and varied teaching experience from early childhood to high school have honed my adaptability and ability to create engaging learning environments.

My commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive classroom aligns with St. Mary Academy's values. My organizational skills, strong work ethic, and genuine passion for education can help me effectively manage classrooms and keep students engaged. I'm enthusiastic about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to your students' academic and personal growth.

Looking forward to discussing how my experience can support St. Mary Academy's mission.

Best regards,

Check out a full substitute teacher cover letter example here.

#3. Barista Short Cover Letter Example

Contact information: Alex Johnson Barista   555-789-1234   [email protected]   Seattle, WA   linkedin.com/in/made-up-person

TO:  Mr. John Smith   Hiring Manager   Brewista Café   123 Coffee Lane   Seattle, WA

Dear Mr. Smith,

I'm eager to apply for the barista position at Brewista Café. With three years of hands-on experience, I'm confident I can bring the skill and dedication your team needs. My quick and accurate work resulted in a 20% tip increase in just three months, and I'm no stranger to busy shifts, often handling over 200 orders daily.

I excel at making various drinks quickly without compromising quality, ensuring customer satisfaction and team productivity. Additionally, I engage with customers, meeting their needs and recommending drinks based on their preferences. I always pitch in to help the team, be it restocking or cleaning, especially during slow business hours.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team.

Sincerely, Alex Johnson

#4. Nurse Practitioner Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information: Velma Rivers Board Certified Nurse Practitioner 555-123-4567 [email protected] Denver, CO linkedin.com/in/made-up-person

TO: Hiring Team Hearty Health Medical Inc. Denver, CO

Dear Hiring Team,

I am enthusiastic about the Nurse Practitioner position at Hearty Health Medical Inc. Your commitment to accessible and quality care aligns perfectly with my professional goals. With my Master of Science in Nursing, board certification, and extensive clinical experience, I am well-prepared to contribute to your telehealth platform.

My background includes treating a wide range of conditions and an active NP license in multiple states, ensuring I understand diverse healthcare needs. My proficiency in online healthcare tools and Independent Prescriptive Authority equips me to provide comprehensive care remotely.

I am excited about the opportunity to support your vision of making healthcare more accessible through telehealth. I look forward to discussing how my clinical expertise can help advance Hearty Health Medical's mission.

Please reach out to arrange an interview at your convenience.

Velma Rivers

Check out a full nurse practitioner cover letter example here.

#5. Attorney Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information: John Smith Attorney 555-123-4567 [email protected] Arizona, USA linkedin.com/in/made-up-person

TO: Hiring Manager Elevate Arizona, USA

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Junior Commercial Attorney position at Elevate. With over three years of legal practice experience, I have provided extensive transactional support to business clients, including drafting, reviewing, and negotiating commercial contracts, with an emphasis on NDAs.

Elevate's focus on enhancing contractual infrastructure deeply resonates with my commitment to delivering high-quality legal solutions. I am eager to review and negotiate contracts and work collaboratively within the team.

Elevate's dedication to innovation in the legal industry resonates with my career goals and values. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my legal skills and dedication to excellence to your team.

Sincerely, John Smith

Check out a full attorney cover letter example here.

#6. Retail Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information: Jordan Martinez Retail Talent Specialist 123-456-7890 [email protected] Seattle, WA linkedin.com/in/made-up-person

TO: Talent Management Team Aritzia

Dear Talent Management Team,

I'm excited about the Specialist Retail Talent Management position at Aritzia. Your dedication to fostering high-performing teams aligns perfectly with my work ethic and professional goals. I’m confident that my talent management experience in the world of retail will help me ensure the right fit, cultural integration, and team potential.

My focus has always been on fair practices, smooth transitions, and optimized compensation to support team stability and productivity. Your holistic approach to performance assessment resonates with me, and I believe I can help foster a motivated workforce.

I'm eager to bring my skills and passion to your team. Please feel free to contact me so that we may discuss how I can contribute to your growth and success.

Warm regards, Jordan Martinez

Check out a full retail cover letter example here.

#7. Actor Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information: Chris Parker Actor & Theater Enthusiast   555-123-4567   [email protected]   Los Angeles, CA linkedin.com/in/made-up-person  

TO: Casting Director Local Theatre X Production X Los Angeles, CA

Dear Casting Director,

I'm thrilled about the Kids Production X casting call at Local Theatre Y. The captivating storyline aligns perfectly with my passion for children's theater. With experience in entertaining and engaging young audiences, I'm well-suited for vibrant characters.

I'm particularly drawn to Character Z, but open to other roles. My work ethic, dependability, and availability make me an excellent long-term addition to Local Theatre Y. I bring patience, enthusiasm, and a knack for connecting with kids.

I'm eager to contribute my acting prowess, energy, and dedication to Kids Production X. Please find my headshot and resume attached.

Looking forward to auditioning and discussing further.

Warm regards, Chris Parker

Check out a full actor cover letter example here.

#8. Digital Marketing Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information: Jamie Williams Digital Marketing Associate 555-123-4567 [email protected] Austin, TX linkedin.com/in/made-up-person

TO: Alexandra Smith Marketing & Events Manager Marketing Agency X Austin, TX

Dear Ms. Smith,

I am excited about the Digital Marketing Associate position at Marketing Agency X. With over two years of digital marketing experience, I've led successful campaigns across various platforms, optimizing results and managing donor platforms.

My proficiency in tools like Google Analytics and strong project management skills can make me a valuable asset to your team. I am eager to contribute to your mission of enhancing brand awareness and fundraising through data-driven marketing.

Please contact me for an interview to explore how I can support your goals.

Sincerely, Jamie Williams

Check out a full digital marketing cover letter example here.

#9. IT Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information:  Roger Valdorf Desktop Analyst   555-123-4567   [email protected]   Denver, CO linkedin.com/in/made-up-person  

TO:   Wendy Welton Hiring Manager FakeTech Group Denver, CO  

Dear Ms. Welton,

I'm writing to express my interest in the Desktop Analyst position at FakeTech Group. My experience in providing technical support, both on-site and remotely, aligns well with your company's values of innovation and user-focused technology.

I am drawn to FakeTech's commitment to continuous learning and inclusivity. Throughout my career, I've sought to deepen my technical knowledge and ensure all users feel valued.

I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills can benefit FakeTech Group. Please feel free to contact me to schedule a conversation.

Warm regards, Roger Valdorf

Check out a full IT cover letter example here.

#10. Sales Short Cover Letter Example

Alex Thompson   Sales Representative   555-123-4567   [email protected]   Austin, TX   linkedin.com/in/made-up-person

Ms. Emily Stevens   Hiring Manager The IT Support Center   Austin, TX

Dear Ms. Stevens,

I'm writing to express my interest in the IT Support Center's Sales Representative role. With a strong background in sales and client relationship management, I believe I'm an ideal fit for this position.

My Business degree from the University of Texas and experience in sales have equipped me with essential skills, including proficiency in tools like Salesforce for efficient data management. In my current role at TechSolutions, I've successfully closed deals, boosted company revenue, and achieved high client retention rates.

I excel in connecting with decision-makers, understanding their needs, and working collaboratively within a team. I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and share your commitment to skill development and inclusive customer support.

I look forward to discussing how I can make a valuable impact. Please reach out to me via email or phone to arrange an interview.

Sincerely, Alex Thompson

Check out a full sales cover letter example here.

#11. Business Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information: John Doe   Business Development Specialist   555-123-4567   [email protected]   New York, NY   linkedin.com/in/made-up-person  

TO: Chet Jones Hiring Manager   Pear Inc. New York, NY  

Dear Mr. Jones,

I came across the Business Development Representative role at Pear Inc. and was immediately intrigued. Your vision aligns with my passion for driving business growth through meaningful connections.

In my previous role, I consistently exceeded quarterly goals by at least 23%, showcasing my ability to communicate effectively with C-level executives and craft compelling proposals. I'm proficient in SalesForce and experienced in account management.

I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to Pear Inc.'s mission. Please contact me to schedule a discussion about my application.

Best wishes, John Doe

Check out a full business cover letter example here.

#12. Graphic Designer Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information: Jordan Smith   Graphic Designer   555-321-4321   [email protected]   San Francisco, CA   linkedin.com/in/made-up-person  

TO:  Lucy Pleasant Hiring Manager Tech Company X San Francisco, CA

Dear Ms. Pleasant,

I discovered the Remote Graphic Designer role at Tech Company X and was instantly drawn to your creative approach and company culture.

With expertise in Adobe tools, project management, and social media, I've crafted impactful designs and collaborated effectively with diverse teams. My commitment to delivering quality work aligns with your values.

I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute my design skills and collaborate remotely with your team. Please contact me at the provided phone number or email address so that we may discuss my application further.

Sincerely, Jordan Smith

Check out a full graphic designer cover letter example here.

#13. Team Leader Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information: Jessica Martin Team Leader 657-390-2145 [email protected] Orlando, FL linkedin.com/in/made-up-person

TO: Hiring Manager XYZ Digital Solutions Remote

I'm writing to express my interest in the Team Leader position at XYZ Digital Solutions. With extensive experience in leading teams and driving project success, I believe I'm well-suited for this role.

My leadership is marked by strong communication, fostering collaboration, and promoting innovation. I've successfully trained and mentored teams, enhancing productivity and building a supportive and goal-oriented culture. Proficient in digital tools, I enhance team efficiency and stay ahead of industry trends.

I'm enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my proactive leadership and commitment to excellence to XYZ Digital Solutions. I look forward to discussing how my experience can contribute to your team's success.

Jessica Martin

Check out a full team leader cover letter example here.

#14. Receptionist Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information: Sarah Miller Front Desk Receptionist 555-123-4567 [email protected] San Francisco, CA linkedin.com/in/made-up-person

TO: Hiring Manager Permanente Luxury Inn Santa Clara, CA 189 Sunflower Boulevard

Dear Front Desk Team,

I am excited to apply for the front desk receptionist role at the Permanente Luxury Inn, Santa Clara. My experience in customer service, cash handling, and efficient management of front desk operations aligns well with the requirements of this position.

I thrive in fast-paced environments, ensuring guests feel welcome while managing check-ins, check-outs, and cash transactions. My proficiency in keycard and POS systems, coupled with my ability to multitask, positions me to integrate seamlessly into your team.

I am confident that my commitment to excellent customer service will contribute to the Permanente Luxury Inn’s reputation for guest satisfaction. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills can align with your team's goals.

Please contact me to arrange an interview at your convenience.

Sarah Miller

Check out a full receptionist cover letter example here.

#15. Dental Assistant Short Cover Letter Example

Contact Information: Jane Smith   Dental Assistant   555-123-4567   [email protected]   Seattle, WA   linkedin.com/in/made-up-person  

TO: Washington State Department of Corrections   Health Services Team   Seafair Lows, WA   [email protected]  

I'm applying for the Dental Assistant position at Seafair Lows Corrections Center. As a registered Dental Assistant with a comprehensive background in direct chairside assisting, patient communication, record-keeping, and inventory management, I am well-equipped to meet the demands of this role.

My experience extends to creating a comfortable environment for patients, maintaining meticulous records, and ensuring the smooth operation of dental procedures. I am adept at working within the unique parameters of a correctional facility, prioritizing quality care and strict adherence to safety protocols.

Enclosed are my resume and professional references for your review. I am keen to contribute my skills to the Seafair Lows Corrections Center team and would welcome the chance to discuss this opportunity further.

Thank you for considering my application.

Check out a full dental assistant cover letter example here.

Key Takeaways

You’ve made it to the end of our article!

Hopefully, now you feel confident about writing your short cover letter.

Before you go and submit your job application, let’s briefly go over the main points we discussed:

• You should always include a cover letter with your job application, even though some hiring managers are divided about them. A short cover letter is a great choice to satisfy both types of hiring managers without taking a risk.
• Short cover letters are recommended if you have less relevant experience or you’re changing careers. You can focus on the experience you do have and keep your text brief.
• Pick an appropriate cover letter template to enhance your presentation. Use our free resume builder and choose a cover letter template to match, so you have a stylish job application that shows off your attention to detail.
• Your short cover letter will probably take several drafts. The best way to write it is by asking yourself important questions and then shortening your text until you fit the desired word count.
• Always proofread your cover letter before submitting it. Even a small typo or grammatical error could detract from your professionalism and make the hiring manager reject your application.

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Personal Assistant cover letter examples

Are you ready for a varied and fast-paced role as a personal assistant?

Not only do you have to juggle your own workload, but you’ll have to manage calendars, prioritise tasks and pick up any last-minute requests your boss might have.

So if you’ve got what it takes to excel in this role, you need to show off this impressive skill set. Find out how to do that with our handy guide and personal assistant cover letter examples below.

CV templates 

Personal Assistant cover letter example 1

Personal Assistant cover letter example 2

Personal Assistant cover letter example 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your Personal Assistant cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write a Personal Assistant cover letter

Here’s a simple process to write your own interview-winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

You should write your cover letter in the body of the email (or messaging system if sending via a job board) and never attach it as a document.

The reason for this?

You want your cover letter to start connecting with the recruiter from the moment they open your application.

If they have to open a document to read it, it will slow things down and they may not even bother to open it.

Start with a friendly greeting

To start building rapport with the recruiter or hiring manager right away, lead with a friendly greeting.

Try to strike a balance between professional and personable.

Go with something like…

• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Stay away from old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies – they can come across as cold and robotic.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try to uncover it via these methods.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you have opened the cover letter with a warm greeting, you need to explain which role you are interested in.

Sometimes a recruitment consultant could be managing over 10 vacancies, so it’s crucial to pinpoint exactly which one you are interested in.

Highlight the department/area if possible and look for any reference numbers you can quote.

These are some examples you can add..

• I am interested in applying for the role of Personal Assistant with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 40f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for an IT project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The main purpose of your cover letter is to excite recruiters and make them eager to open your CV. And you achieve this by quickly demonstrating your suitability to the job you are applying for.

Take a look at the job adverts you are applying for, and make note of the most important skills being asked for.

Then, when you write your cover letter, make your suitability the focal point.

Explain how you meet the candidate requirements fully, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider your application.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Personal Assistant cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Personal Assistant cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Personal Assistant cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Personal Assistant cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Hello Mildred

I am writing to in relation to the Personal Assistant role at VMLY UK. With a track record of organising complex tasks for senior stakeholders, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success.

Throughout my 8-year career, I have honed my skills in overseeing calendars, arranging travel logistics, composing correspondence, and effectively executing admin duties. My experience in using relevant software has enabled me to streamline communication and coordinate schedules. For instance, in my current role as a Personal Assistant at Boohoo Group, I reduced scheduling conflicts by 20% as a result of ensuring all meetings and appointments were efficiently booked. Furthermore, I lowered executives’ email backlog by 40% through diligent email management and drafting concise responses for inquiries.

I take pride in my proactive approach to problem-solving and my ability to anticipate the needs of the leadership team, which allow them to focus on strategic decision-making initiatives. My focus is on fostering strong professional relationships with all company clients.

Enclosed is my CV, which outlines further details about my professional background. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Kind regards

Karen Wallace

I trust you are well. As a seasoned Personal Assistant with 14+ years of experience in providing high-level administrative support to C-suites, I am excited to express my interest in the Senior Personal Assistant role at Hays.

My background in managing calendars, orchestrating international travel, and ensuring smooth daily operations uniquely positions me to excel in driving your company’s success. In my current role as a Personal Assistant at Oriel Partners, I consistently demonstrate an ability to handle intricate scheduling and oversee confidential communications with discretion.

My leadership qualities have been pivotal in mentoring junior assistants, while leveraging technology to enhance efficiency, having successfully implemented processes which resulted in a 30% reduction in administrative overhead. Furthermore, I successfully organised five business events with 40+ attendees, leading to a 95% participant satisfaction and positive feedback from stakeholders.

Thank you for considering my application. Please feel free to contact me to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.

Colleen Harding

Good afternoon, Aileen

I am writing to indicate my strong interest in the Junior Personal Assistant position advertised by Cobalt UK on LinkedIn. As a motivated and detailed-oriented individual, with a commitment to supporting executive members, I am excited about the prospect of joining your prominent company.

As a recent BBA Graduate from Durham University, I have developed a solid foundation in time management, communication, and task management. My 3-month internship at Grant Thornton has equipped me with the skills to excel in a support role. During this period, I assisted in handling schedules, coordinating meetings, and arranging office events, where I played a role in increasing team productivity by 10% due to streamlining workflow processes. I also helped ensure all required materials were prepared and distributed in advance, which resulted in on-time meeting starts.

Additionally, I can function well under pressure and adapt quickly to changing priorities during peak business season. My aptitude for learning new technologies enables me to contribute effectively to digital communication procedures.

I am available for an interview at your convenience to discuss my competencies in greater detail.

Priscilla Wade

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Personal Assistant job, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

6 Library Assistant Cover Letter Examples

Introduction.

In today's competitive job market, a well-tailored cover letter can make all the difference when it comes to standing out from the crowd. This is especially true for library assistants, who often face stiff competition for available positions. A strong cover letter not only showcases your relevant skills and experience, but also demonstrates your passion for libraries and the valuable contributions you can make to the organization.

A library assistant cover letter serves as a personal introduction and an opportunity to highlight your qualifications, achievements, and why you are the ideal candidate for the job. It allows you to showcase your communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to work effectively in a team. By customizing your cover letter to each specific position and organization, you can demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and make a memorable impression on potential employers.

In this article, we will provide you with a variety of library assistant cover letter examples to inspire and guide you in crafting your own standout cover letter. Each example will highlight different aspects of the job application process and offer valuable insights into what makes an effective cover letter. Whether you're a seasoned library assistant or just starting your career in the field, these examples will help you showcase your unique qualifications and secure the job you've been dreaming of. So let's dive in and explore the world of library assistant cover letters!

Example 1: Academic Library Assistant Cover Letter

Key takeaways.

Emily's cover letter effectively showcases her experience and passion for library services, positioning her as an ideal candidate for the Academic Library Assistant position at the University of Vermont Library.

When applying for a library position, it is crucial to highlight your relevant experience, such as internships, assistant roles, and any specialized training or certifications. This demonstrates your familiarity with library resources and systems, as well as your commitment to the field.

She emphasizes her customer service skills and ability to provide research assistance, which are essential in an academic library setting.

Highlight your ability to assist patrons with research needs and provide exceptional customer service. Academic libraries often serve as valuable resources for students and faculty, so showcasing your skills in these areas is crucial.

Emily also mentions her experience in coordinating library workshops and collaborating with faculty members, demonstrating her ability to contribute to the development and implementation of library programs.

If you have experience in organizing and leading library workshops or collaborating with faculty members on library initiatives, be sure to highlight these skills. They showcase your ability to contribute to the library's mission and support the academic community.

To strengthen her cover letter, Emily could have explicitly mentioned her familiarity with the University of Vermont Library and why she is specifically interested in working there.

Take the time to research the library you are applying to and incorporate specific details about the institution in your cover letter. This shows your genuine interest and enthusiasm for the opportunity, making your application stand out.

Example 2: Public Library Assistant Cover Letter

Michael's cover letter effectively showcases his experience and passion for library work, making him an ideal candidate for the Public Library Assistant position at the New York Public Library.

When applying for a position in a public library, it is crucial to highlight your experience and dedication to promoting literacy and community engagement. This demonstrates your alignment with the library's mission and shows your potential to contribute to its success.

Michael highlights his progression from a Library Page to a Library Assistant, showcasing his growth and development in the field.

Emphasize your career progression and increasing responsibilities in your cover letter. This demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and your ability to take on new challenges.

He also highlights a specific achievement - organizing a successful summer reading challenge with a 20% increase in participation - which demonstrates his event planning and project management skills.

Highlighting specific achievements in your cover letter helps to provide concrete evidence of your skills and accomplishments. This makes your application stand out and shows your potential to make a positive impact in the role.

While Michael's cover letter effectively highlights his experience and achievements, he could further emphasize his knowledge of library systems and technologies to strengthen his application.

Be sure to mention any specific library systems and technologies you are familiar with, such as integrated library systems or digital resource platforms. This demonstrates your technical skills and your ability to adapt to new technologies in the library environment.

Example 3: School Library Assistant Cover Letter

Jessica's cover letter effectively showcases her experience and passion for promoting literacy and education in students, making her an ideal candidate for the School Library Assistant position at San Francisco Unified School District.

When applying for a school library assistant position, it is crucial to highlight your experience in managing library operations, assisting students with research projects, and promoting reading. This demonstrates your ability to contribute to the educational goals of the district.

She emphasizes her experience in cataloging and organizing library materials, assisting students with research projects, and maintaining the library's digital resources. Additionally, Jessica highlights her success in coordinating author visits and creating engaging displays to promote reading.

It is important to showcase your skills in library management, including cataloging, organization, and promotion of library resources. Highlighting your ability to engage students and create a welcoming library environment is also crucial.

Jessica also mentions her collaboration with teachers to integrate library resources into the curriculum and her initiative to expand the library's collection of diverse books. These demonstrate her commitment to inclusivity and representation in the library.

Highlight any experience you have working with teachers to integrate library resources into the curriculum and your efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in the library. These qualities are highly valued in a school library assistant.

To further enhance her cover letter, Jessica could have mentioned any relevant certifications or additional training she has completed in library science or educational technology.

If you have any certifications or additional training in library science or educational technology, be sure to mention them to demonstrate your commitment to professional development and your ability to leverage technology in the library setting.

Example 4: Special Collections Library Assistant Cover Letter

Matthew's cover letter effectively showcases his extensive experience and expertise in archives and special collections, positioning him as an ideal candidate for the Special Collections Library Assistant position at The Library of Congress.

When applying for a specialized library position, it's crucial to emphasize your relevant experience and knowledge in handling unique materials and collections. This demonstrates your understanding of the specific challenges and requirements of the role.

Matthew highlights his experience in processing and cataloging archival materials, as well as his contributions to digitization and public engagement initiatives. These achievements demonstrate his ability to effectively preserve and promote access to valuable resources.

Highlight your accomplishments in managing and organizing archival materials, as well as any involvement in digitization projects or public outreach efforts. These demonstrate your ability to contribute to the long-term preservation and accessibility of special collections.

While Matthew mentions his experience in managing physical and electronic records at the National Archives and Records Administration, he could have further emphasized his skills in records management and information organization.

If you have experience in records management or information organization, be sure to highlight these skills in your cover letter. These are highly relevant for positions that involve managing and organizing special collections.

Overall, Matthew's cover letter effectively conveys his passion for special collections and his commitment to the preservation and accessibility of cultural heritage.

Showcasing your enthusiasm for the field and your dedication to preserving cultural heritage can make a strong impression on hiring managers. Make sure to highlight your passion and commitment in your cover letter.

Example 5: Digital Library Assistant Cover Letter

Samantha's cover letter effectively highlights her relevant experience and expertise in digital archiving and library services, positioning her as an ideal candidate for the Digital Library Assistant position at Stanford University Libraries.

When applying for a niche role like a Digital Library Assistant, it's important to showcase your specific skills and experience in managing and preserving digital collections. This demonstrates your knowledge of industry standards and best practices, and your ability to contribute to the organization's digital initiatives.

She emphasizes her accomplishments in previous roles, such as implementing new digitization workflows and collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve access to digital resources. These achievements showcase her proactive approach and ability to drive positive change.

Highlighting tangible achievements in your cover letter demonstrates your ability to take initiative and make a meaningful impact. Employers value candidates who can bring fresh ideas and drive innovation within their organization.

Samantha also mentions her experience in cataloging, circulation, and reference services, as well as her involvement in the implementation of a new integrated library system. These details further reinforce her expertise and versatility in library operations.

Make sure to include any relevant experience or skills that may enhance your qualifications for the position. Even if they are not directly related to the role, they can demonstrate your adaptability and willingness to learn new technologies or systems.

Overall, Samantha's cover letter effectively showcases her passion for preserving and providing access to digital collections, aligning perfectly with Stanford University Libraries' mission.

Demonstrate your passion for the organization's mission and values in your cover letter. This shows your genuine interest in contributing to their work and can set you apart from other candidates.

Example 6: Law Library Assistant Cover Letter

Benjamin's cover letter effectively highlights his experience and passion for law library operations, positioning him as a strong candidate for the Law Library Assistant position at the Yale Law School Library.

When applying for a specialized library position, it's crucial to showcase your knowledge and understanding of the unique needs of the library's users. This demonstrates your ability to provide tailored support and resources to the law school community.

He emphasizes his relevant work experience at prestigious law school libraries, including his most recent role as a Law Library Assistant at the Columbia Law School Library. Benjamin's experience in different library settings underscores his adaptability and familiarity with library operations.

Highlighting your experience in multiple library environments showcases your ability to quickly acclimate to new systems and workflows. This is particularly important in a fast-paced and dynamic law school library setting.

Benjamin highlights a key achievement - implementing a new online research guide at the Columbia Law School Library - that improved accessibility and usability of digital resources. This demonstrates his initiative and ability to streamline processes for library patrons.

Illustrating your ability to improve library services and resources through specific projects or initiatives can set you apart from other candidates. Quantify the impact of your achievements whenever possible to underscore your effectiveness.

The cover letter could further emphasize Benjamin's knowledge of specific library systems or software, such as integrated library systems (ILS) or legal research databases, to showcase his technical skills in library operations.

If you have experience with specialized library systems or software, be sure to mention them to demonstrate your proficiency and ability to leverage technology in library operations. This can be particularly valuable in a law library setting where legal research databases are essential tools.

Skills To Highlight

As a library assistant, your cover letter should highlight the unique skills that make you a strong candidate for the role. These key skills include:

Organizational Skills : As a library assistant, you will be responsible for organizing and maintaining library materials, such as books, periodicals, and multimedia resources. Highlight your ability to categorize and shelve items in an orderly manner, ensuring that materials are easily accessible for patrons.

Attention to Detail : Accuracy and attention to detail are essential skills for a library assistant. Mention your ability to carefully handle library materials, ensuring that they are properly labeled, cataloged, and in good condition. Emphasize your commitment to maintaining accurate records, such as tracking overdue items and managing library databases.

Customer Service : A library assistant plays a crucial role in providing excellent customer service to library patrons. Showcase your friendly and approachable demeanor, as well as your willingness to assist patrons with their inquiries and research needs. Highlight any previous experience you have in helping patrons find information, recommending books, or assisting with technology-related questions.

Knowledge of Library Systems and Databases : Familiarity with library cataloging systems and databases is essential for a library assistant. Mention any experience you have with popular library management software, such as Koha, Evergreen, or Alma. If you have expertise in specific databases, such as ProQuest or EBSCOhost, highlight your ability to conduct efficient and effective searches for patrons.

Ability to Assist Patrons with Research : Library assistants often help patrons with research projects and information retrieval. Demonstrate your research skills by mentioning any experience you have in assisting patrons with finding reliable sources, using online databases, or conducting literature reviews. Highlight your ability to guide patrons through the research process and help them access the information they need.

These skills are essential for a library assistant, and showcasing them in your cover letter can help you stand out as a strong candidate for the position. Tailor your cover letter to emphasize how your skills and experiences align with the specific requirements of the library assistant role. By demonstrating your competence in these areas, you can increase your chances of securing an interview and ultimately landing the job.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When crafting your cover letter for a library assistant position, it's important to avoid these common mistakes:

Not Addressing the Specific Library's Needs : One of the biggest mistakes you can make is sending a generic cover letter that doesn't address the specific needs of the library you're applying to. Take the time to research the library and understand their mission, programs, and services. Tailor your cover letter to show how your skills and experience align with what the library is looking for.

Not Showcasing Customer Service Skills : As a library assistant, strong customer service skills are essential. It's important to highlight your ability to interact with patrons, answer questions, and assist with research needs. Avoid the mistake of not emphasizing your customer service experience in your cover letter. Provide specific examples of how you have provided exceptional service to library users in the past.

Not Highlighting Experience with Library Systems and Databases : Libraries rely on various systems and databases to organize and provide access to their resources. If you have experience with library-specific systems such as cataloging software or database management, be sure to mention it in your cover letter. Failing to highlight this experience can make you appear less qualified for the position.

Ignoring Attention to Detail : A library assistant's role often involves organizing and maintaining the library's collection. Attention to detail is crucial in this position. Avoid the mistake of overlooking typos or grammatical errors in your cover letter. Take the time to proofread carefully and ensure that your cover letter is error-free.

Lack of Passion for Books and Learning : Libraries are passionate about books and learning, and they want to hire individuals who share that passion. Make sure to convey your love for books and the importance of libraries in your cover letter. Show that you are genuinely interested in the role and the opportunity to contribute to the library's mission.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a strong and compelling cover letter that highlights your qualifications and stands out to potential employers.

In conclusion, a well-crafted cover letter can be a powerful tool for library assistants looking to secure a rewarding position in their field. By following the examples provided in this article and avoiding common mistakes, applicants can create a cover letter that stands out to hiring managers and showcases their skills and qualifications.

Throughout the examples, we saw the importance of tailoring the cover letter to the specific job and highlighting relevant experience. By addressing the hiring manager by name and mentioning specific details about the library or organization, applicants can demonstrate their genuine interest and enthusiasm for the position.

Furthermore, the examples showcased the importance of showcasing transferable skills and highlighting accomplishments in previous roles. By providing specific examples of how they have contributed to the success of a library or organization in the past, applicants can demonstrate their ability to make a positive impact in their new role.

It is also crucial to avoid common mistakes such as using generic or cliché language, including irrelevant information, or failing to proofread the cover letter for errors. By taking the time to review and revise the cover letter, applicants can ensure that it is polished and professional.

In conclusion, a well-written cover letter can greatly enhance a library assistant's chances of landing a rewarding position. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, applicants can create a compelling cover letter that sets them apart from other candidates and convinces hiring managers of their suitability for the role. Good luck with your job application!

15 Executive Assistant Cover Letters That Will Get Hired (NOW)

Are you are looking to write a cover letter for Executive Assistant jobs that will impress recruiters and get you noticed by hiring managers? You need one to apply for a job, but you don’t know what to say.

Cover letters are important for a job application because they give recruiters an opportunity to get to know applicants better. Cover letters also provide more insight into the applicant’s work skills, personal qualities, and qualifications. Aside from all of this, cover letters can show recruiters how well potential employees follow directions, which is crucial in the workplace.

Here are 15 amazing Executive Assistant cover letters that are professionally written and will help you stand out and get that job!

Executive Assistant Cover Letters

Each cover letter is written with a different focus. Review all of them and pick the ones that apply to your situation. Take inspiration from multiple samples and combine them to craft your unique cover letter.

Executive Assistant Sample 1

Dear , I hope you’re doing well and that you’re seeking a new Executive Assistant for your business. I’ve been in the industry for over 10 years and am eager to apply my experience in order to help your company thrive. Please find attached my resume and references sheet. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Executive Assistant Sample 2

The Executive Assistant is the only person who understands the demands of our CEO. I am confident that I can fulfill this position with excellent results.

As an Executive Assistant, my responsibility is to provide administrative support to keep things running smoothly for our CEO while maintaining his calendar and ensuring confidentiality of any company information. As someone who has experience in both customer service and technical writing, I am confident that I can meet these challenges while maintaining a positive attitude.

Executive Assistant Sample 3

Dear Candidate,

I am writing to express my interest in the Executive Assistant position that is currently open at your company. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and have been working as a business assistant for 10 years. I believe my skills and experience would be a good match for this position. If you would like to learn more about me or discuss how I might be able to help your organization, please call me or email me at ____@____.com. Thank you very much for your time and consideration of my resume!

Executive Assistant Sample 4

Dear Sir or Madame,

I am a University graduate with experience in customer service and clerical work. I am highly organized and detail-oriented. My most recent job was as a receptionist at Clearwater Company where I handled all correspondence to be delivered to our CEO. I have also been the Executive Assistant to the Vice President of Sales for over two years.

Executive Assistant Sample 5

Dear Mr. Smith, I am writing to apply for the Executive Assistant position that you have open in your office. I have over 10 years of experience as a personal assistant and administrative specialist. I’m confident that my skills and experience would be a valuable addition to your team. Sincerely, ____________

Executive Assistant Sample 6

Dear ____, I am a ____ year old ____ with a ____ in a related field. I am interested in applying for the position of Executive Assistant at your company and have attached my resume for your review. With 5 years of experience as an Executive Assistant, I have excellent organizational skills and can work well under pressure. In addition to excellent secretarial skills, I have additional experience working on marketing campaigns and research projects. If you would like to learn more about me please call me at ___-___-___. Thank you for taking the time to read my resume!

Executive Assistant Sample 7

I am seeking employment as an Executive Assistant. I have over 12 years of experience working in the financial industry. Throughout my career, I have supported executives and managers with their day- to-day tasks. Please find below my resume for your consideration.

Executive Assistant Sample 8

I am writing to express my interest in the Executive Assistant role at Acme Corporation. I would like to tell you about my skills and qualifications for this position.

I have more than five years of experience as an Executive Assistant. I am extremely organized, detail oriented, and efficient with time management. I have great communication skills, including strong writing skills that help me keep up with the demands of managing their boss’s schedule along with other tasks such as preparing speeches and documents for meetings, following up on requests, completing analyses and presentations for clients, maintaining relationships with clients through email or calls, etc. I am confident that if given the opportunity to speak to you further about this opportunity I will be able to show you my skills.

Executive Assistant Sample 9

I’m reaching out in interest in the Executive Assistant position. I have over five years of experience managing executive assistants and administrative positions. My expertise includes assisting with event planning, scheduling, managing finances, coordinating social media activities, work order management, etc. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for your consideration!

Executive Assistant Sample 10

Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to express my interest in the Executive Assistant position with your company. I am highly skilled in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. My organizational skills are strong and I have an eye for detail. I have experience with creating presentations that are clear, concise, and easy to follow for a variety of audiences. I would be honored if you would consider me for this position. If you have any questions about my qualifications or need more information about me please do not hesitate to contact me at **************@gmail.com or *********@yahoo.com

Executive Assistant Sample 11

Dear Hiring Manager, I am interested in the Executive Assistant position. I have researched your company and feel confident that I have the skills to be an excellent addition to your staff. I have 5 years of Executive Assistant experience at a major company where my responsibilities included managing executive calendars, arranging travel plans, coordinating events, and helping to manage other administrative duties. I am skilled at prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance. My experience also includes training other employees on various administrative tasks. If you are interested in interviewing me for this position please contact me by phone or email as soon as possible so we can set up an interview time that is convenient for you. Thank you for your consideration! Sincerely yours,

Executive Assistant Sample 12

Dear Hiring Manager, With over 10 years of experience in the field of executive assistants, I am confident that my skills and experience would be a great asset to your company.  I am detail oriented and proficient with MS Office, Google Drive & Excel.  I will make sure all deadlines are met on time or before schedule.  Additionally, I have an extensive knowledge of all communications tools available. My communication skills are excellent and my attention to detail is unmatched. Please consider me for this position with your company!

Executive Assistant Sample 13

Dear hiring manager, I hope this message finds you well. With your current Executive Assistant leaving and no current EAs on staff, I am looking for a new opportunity to work with an innovative and visionary company like yours. My experience as a Corporate Executive Assistant and Personal Assistant to the CEO has given me the skills needed to be successful in this role. As such, I would very much appreciate an interview so we can see if we are a good fit for each other. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Executive Assistant Sample 14

I am writing to express my interest in the Executive Assistant position that you are currently hiring for at XYZ company. I have over 5 years of experience working in various office environments, including assisting executives with various tasks. I am organized, quick-thinking, and skilled in the use of Microsoft Office software. If you are looking for an experienced assistant who can work well with others and take direction without difficulty, please consider me as a candidate.

Executive Assistant Sample 15

To Whom It May Concern, I am interested in the Executive Assistant position. I have over 10 years of experience as an executive assistant and administrative professional. I am a detail oriented, proactive individual that is dedicated to making sure tasks are completed accurately and timely. I would be an excellent asset to your team! Thank you for your time and consideration.

Recruiters and hiring managers receive hundreds of applications for each job opening.

Use the above professionally written Executive Assistant cover letter samples to learn how to write a cover letter that will catch their attention and customize it for your specific situation.

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

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

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

First, understand the point of a cover letter.

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

Because of that …

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

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

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

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

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

You don’t need a creative opening line.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Show, don’t tell.

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

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

In her revised version, she wrote this instead:

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

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

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

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

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

Keep the tone warm and conversational.

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

Don’t use a form letter.

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

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

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

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

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

Keep it under one page.

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

Don’t agonize over the small details.

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

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

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