cover letter best examples 2021

12 Great Cover Letter Examples

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

There comes a time in nearly every job seekers life when you plop yourself down in front of the computer and say to yourself…

“Okay, it’s time to find a couple good cover letter examples I can use to help me start writing my cover letter…” 

So you do a quick Google search, grab the first three cover letter samples you can find, copy a paragraph from each one, and then you’re off to the races feeling like now all you have to do is “click send” a few times and the interviews will simply start rolling in.

Consider this a gentle wake-up call.

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Why Your Cover Letter Is So Important?

In this ultra-competitive job market, it’s just not good enough to “Frankenstein” together a cover letter from the various bits and pieces you find online.

Because hiring managers have “been there, done that.” In other words, they’ve seen it all before.

Not only that, but they want to find candidates that are unique, interesting, and take the time and make the effort to present the best version of themselves.

Your cover letter is your first impression, and therefore, you want to craft the best darn cover letter your hiring manager has ever seen.

So you want to take the time and select the cover letter example that is “tailored” to your situation… in other words, the example cover letter that fits your personality, skills and abilities the best.

Example cover letters are kind of like shoes.

Sure, you might absolutely love that pair of Air Jordan IV’s that are still fresh in the box in your closet from 1989, but you might want to have a second thought before you consider wearing them to a wedding with a tuxedo.

Or perhaps you’ve got a pair of high heels that make you feel like you could walk into a business lunch at the Four Seasons and walk out having sold your company for a billion dollars?

Would you feel the same way if you showed up at the start line for the half marathon you signed up for with those same heels on?

Okay, ridiculous examples aside, I hope you can begin to see my point.

There is not one example cover letter for every situation … no “one-cover-letter-fits-all” solution in 2022.

You have to carefully evaluate your situation and decide which cover letter example is going to suit you the most.

What kind of work are you looking for?

Full-time?  Or part-time?  There’s a cover letter for that.

Are you sending a cover letter in the mail or by email?  There’s a cover letter for that too.

There are all kinds of situations that warrant a slightly different cover letter, and it’s imperative that you figure out which one fits you best.

But don’t worry.  To help, we’ve compiled a list of 12 of the most common cover letter examples and provided you with an example of a cover letter for each one that should give you a leg up on the competition for 2022.

So take a look at the examples and carefully decide which one fits your situation the most.

Before you dive in, a word to the wise…

Don’t just grab the one that fits you best, change the contact information and then start sending it out. As I said before, hiring managers are pretty smart and will be able to tell that you haven’t taken any time to make it your own.

If you want to get job interviews from your cover letter (and at some point, job offers as well!), you need to “tailor” the cover letter to demonstrate your skills , abilities and relevant experience .

12 Common Cover Letter Examples

Without further ado, here are 12 of the best cover letter examples for nearly every situation you could find yourself in along with a brief description of what makes the style of cover letter unique.

1. Cover Letter Sample For Part-Time Work

If you have no intention of applying for a full-time position, it is very important that you let the hiring manager know this in your cover letter.  After all, if you don’t mention this right up front, anything that comes after this will be a total waste of time, and hiring managers value their time more than anything.

On a side note, you should never really be applying for a full-time position when you are only available as a part-time worker.  The company has very specific needs, so don’t think they are going to change the entire nature of the position to accommodate your availability.

2. For A New Graduate

Cover letters for new graduates can often be tricky, because generally speaking, new graduates don’t usually have much experience.

So how can you still put yourself forward as a good candidate without experience?  You want to focus the cover letter around your skills and abilities, the extra-curricular work you’ve accomplished and your knowledge of the company (and passion for the industry) you’re applying to.

3. When You Have Been Referred

There isn’t anything overly difficult about writing a cover letter when you have been referred by someone else, but the most important thing to know is where you should bring up the referral.

Generally speaking, it is always best to mention your referral in the opening paragraph, because it acts as an attention grabber for the hiring manager.

You’re hoping they’ll think to themselves something along the lines of, “Oh, this person was referred by Jim.  I like Jim…he’s a straight shooter. If this person is good enough for Jim, he’s good enough for me. I’m going to bring him in for an interview…”

4. Cold Call Cover Letter Example

The cold call cover letter is appropriate when you are applying to a position that is not necessarily listed on a job board or advertised anywhere.  And for that reason, it can be a little tricky.

You really need to blow the hiring manager away in order for them to grant an unsolicited interview request, so there a re a few key things to remember.  Most importantly, you really have to do your research and demonstrate that you know the company and position inside out.

After that, it really pays to address the letter to a specific person.  Simply writing “To Whom It May Concern” is a great way to have the letter filed under G (for those keeping track that’s the Garbage).

Finally, this letter needs to be all about “pizazz”. Since the reader wasn’t expecting to receive this, you really need to catch their attention and sell yourself, but most importantly, quickly demonstrate how you will add value to their company.

5. For An Email Submission

Please please PLEASE be careful with this one.

Just because a job posting says “submit your cover letter and resume via email” , doesn’t necessarily mean that you can just put these documents in the body of an email.

More often than not, the posting will give further instructions that include attaching your cover letter and resume to an email.  Anyone who doesn’t follow this step has a ZERO chance of being brought in for an interview.

Why?  Because you can’t follow simple directions.

Now, if there is no stipulation and you determine that using the email body to send your cover letter is okay, then general cover letter writing rules apply.

Where you want to focus your energy is on the subject line.  Don’t just write whatever comes to mind as a throwaway and whatever you do, don’t leave it empty!  Be clear and concise about what is included in the email and identify the position you are applying for.

6.  For A Recruiter

Recruiters are no different than hiring managers, in that they are essentially looking for the same things from your cover letters.  What impresses a recruiter the most is when you take the time to tailor your cover letter to a specific posting rather than simply sending them a general letter inquiring about “miscellaneous opportunities”.

7. Someone Changing Careers

Generally speaking, if you are changing careers, you’ll be short on experience.  So similarly to the “New Graduate” cover letter, you’ll want to put the focus on your reasons for making the career change along with your relevant skills and abilities and how your experience in your past career will translate to your new career.

And remember, enthusiasm goes a long way. Hiring managers get excited about applicants that really show a desire to succeed in the role and industry they are applying to.

So make sure you do your research and know the position and industry inside out so that you are easily able to show how enthusiastic you are about the opportunity and how determined you are to get started on your new career path.

8. A Great Example of a Cover Letter For An Academic

The trick with an academic cover letter is to avoid rambling on and on and on about everything you’ve accomplished.  The reality is, you still need to fall within the “one-page rule” (although some institutions will allow for a second page, you better make darn sure that this is the case!), so t he trick is to be clear and concise and highlight your accomplishments without coming across as an encyclopedia.

One other thing to consider is the nature of any research you have done and how you want to convey that in your cover letter.

Quite often people spend too much time talking about what it is they study or plan on studying without ever getting into the “why” of it all.

Be specific about your intentions and don’t assume that the person on the other end of your cover letter is an expert in your field.

9. For An Internship

There really isn’t a huge difference between writing a cover letter for an internship and writing a cover letter for a job opening.  You still need to list your qualifications, skills and abilities.  You still need to explain how you add value to the company.  You still want to sell yourself.

But one thing you want to keep in mind, is even though this internship might be a springboard to YOUR career or education, you don’t want this to be the focus of your cover letter.

The name of the game is still to put the company’s needs ahead of your own.

You’re not their first intern and you won’t be their last, so don’t write your cover letter thinking that their concern is how the internship will help with your placement in your next opportunity.

Add value. Period.  This is what they really want to hear from you in your cover letter.

10. Direct Mail

A direct mail cover letter is similar to a cold call cover letter, the main difference being you are not applying to a single company with a single position in mind.  Instead, you are “blanketing” as many companies you can at once and therefore trying to send out a general cover letter that can work for them all.

Because of this, we don’t recommend this strategy to our students.  It is generally pretty ineffective and a waste of your time or resources.

There is rarely a time when “tailoring” your resume to a specific company and position is not the most effective strategy.  However, if you are really short on time (and possibly ambition), here is an example of a direct mail cover letter you can reference.

11. Responding To an Advertisement

The only really distinguishing feature of this type of cover letter is that the opening paragraph generally includes a statement such as “I’m responding to your advertisement I saw in the…”

The rest of the cover letter generally follows the principles of other successful cover letters.  However, if you find yourself going through the classifieds in your local newspaper and simply sending off cover letters to whomever has an ad posted, do make sure that you do some research on the company before you send out your cover letter.

Sending one cover letter out for multiple advertisements is a good way to ensure that you won’t be getting too many interviews in the coming days or weeks.

12. When You’re Unemployed

The worst thing you can do when writing an cover letter after you’ve been unemployed for some time is to lie.

Why?  Because eventually, the lies you tell in the cover letter will come home to roost at some point in the interview process, meaning you’ll just end up having wasted everyone’s time.

Having said that, if there are some less-than-attractive reasons for your unemployment, don’t make those reasons the focus of your cover letter. You want to keep it positive.

It’s okay to admit fault in certain situations if you can show that you’ve have learned from the tough times and have changed for the better as a result of these struggles.

Transition to focusing on your skills and abilities, and more importantly, your passion and desire for re-entering the workforce. If you have experience from your past that will clearly add value to this new position, than don’t be afraid to clearly demonstrate the connection.

And if you spent your time being unemployed trying to better yourself (for example, taking a class or volunteering), then shift the focus to that.

Putting It All Together

So there you have 12 good cover letter examples for 2022 that will help you get started on crafting a winning cover letter.

Remember that the most important thing for you to accomplish with your cover letter is to demonstrate how you add value to the company you are applying to, and you want to make sure this never gets lost when you get caught up in trying to sell yourself.

And remember, you’re not on your own! Once you’ve chosen your cover letter example you can head over to How to Write a Cover Letter 101 and get great tips on how to right all parts of your cover letter.

Best of luck to you!

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In it you'll get a step-by-step process that will let you craft the perfect cover letter.

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Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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

After weeks of heavy job searching, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume.

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

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

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

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

Let’s get started.

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

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

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

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

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

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

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

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

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

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

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

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

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

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

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, stylish template?

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

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

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to 

start your cover letter

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

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

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

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

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

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

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

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

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

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

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

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

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

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

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

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

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

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

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

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

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

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

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

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

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

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

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

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

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

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

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

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

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

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

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

• Google Search

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

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

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features, such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2, were real game changers for the device.

I really admire how Company XYZ strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

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

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

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

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

In the final paragraph, you want to:

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

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

I hope to help Company X make the most of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your Facebook marketing goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

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

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

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

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

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

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

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

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

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

• Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
• Did you show how your experiences helped you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

• Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
• Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you conclude your cover letter properly?

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

15 Cover Letter Tips

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

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

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

15+ Cover Letter Examples

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

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

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

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

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

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

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

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

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

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

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

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

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

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

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

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

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

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

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

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

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

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

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

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

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

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

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

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

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

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

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

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

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

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

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

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

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

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

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

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

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

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

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

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

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

My key strengths include:

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

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

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

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

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application falls through.

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

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

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

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

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
• To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
• Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
• Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

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

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

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

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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.

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

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700+ Cover Letter Examples: Cover Letter Samples for Any Job

At Coverler, we're excited to offer you a vibrant collection of over 700 cover letter examples, designed to inspire and guide you through the process of crafting the perfect cover letter. Our examples span a diverse range of industries, from Beauty and Customer Support to Healthcare and Teaching, ensuring that no matter your field, you'll find a sample that speaks to your experience and aspirations. Dive into our treasure trove of examples and discover the key to unlocking your next big opportunity.

Categories:

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Automate the job search and send customized cover letters with every application

Beauty Industry

• Aesthetic Nurse
• Cosmetologist
• Esthetician

Customer Support

• Customer Success Manager

Food Service

• For Baristas
• Massage Therapist
• Phlebotomist
• Dental Assistant
• Admissions Counselor
• Assistant Principal
• Academic Advisor

Best Cover Letter Examples

For Customer Support Manager

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Customer Support Manager position at Walmart. I am a highly motivated and results-driven professional with over 5 years of experience in customer support and good management skills. In my current role, I have gained a wealth of experience in using customer service software such as Zendesk and Salesforce. My excellent communication skills and ability to think outside the box have allowed me to effectively provide resolutions and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.

I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong fit for the Customer Support Manager position at Walmart. The requirements of the role, including proficiency in Zendesk and Salesforce and a minimum of three years customer support experience, align closely with my professional background and capabilities. My patience and positive attitude are essential qualities for success in this role.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to your team and to make a positive impact at Walmart. Sincerely,

Macy Morgan

Goodwill General Hospital

For Medical Nurse

I am Aiza Khan and I am applying for the position of Medical Nurse at Goodwill General Hospital. I have 5 years of experience as a medical nurse, and have worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and home health. In my previous roles, I have developed strong communication and interpersonal skills, and have been able to effectively manage and coordinate care for multiple patients.

I am confident that I am a good match for this role, as I meet all of the qualifications listed in the job description. In particular, my experience working as a Registered Nurse in an acute care facility - as well as my experience with a variety of technologies and machines - makes me confident that I would excel in this role. Additionally, my strong communication and interpersonal skills would be an asset to your team.

I am excited to learn more about the position and believe that I can be a valuable asset to Goodwill General Hospital team. I look forward to the next steps in the application process.

Asian Food Restaurant

I am Andrew Pope and I am applying for the position of Chef at Asian Food Restaurant. I have over 10 years of experience as a professional cook and chef, and my skills extend to all sorts of kitchen equipment and tools. In addition, I am highly skilled in both cooking and food preparation. My ability to work well under pressure and manage a kitchen team is another one of my strengths. Lastly, I have experience with cooking all types of cuisine - from Italian to French to Asian.

Based on the job description and requirements for the role of Chef at Asian Food Restaurant - I strongly believe that I am an excellent candidate for this position. In particular, my 7 years of experience in the food industry with at least 3 years cooking Asian cuisine; combined with my skills in managing a kitchen staff and knowledge of various Asian ingredients and flavors - make me confident that I would excel in this role.

I would love to schedule an interview or answer any questions about my skills or experience so you can see how my passion and expertise can benefit the team at Asian Food Restaurant

How to Write a Great Cover Letter (with free examples)

So your dream job is hiring, and you would fit the role so perfectly. You’ve written a great resume, but they’re also asking for a cover letter as part of the application. You think to yourself, “Is a cover letter really that important?”

Answer: Yes. Yes it is.

Recruiters expect you to include a cover letter, and they won’t be impressed if you leave that out. Plus, cover letters give you a unique opportunity to really sell yourself.

With a great cover letter, you can:

• Introduce yourself and show your personality
• Bring what’s on your resume to life
• And show why you’d be an awesome fit for the role.

But how do you write a great cover letter?

In this writing guide we are going to share with you 6 valuable tips for how to write the perfect cover letter. We’re including some excellent examples, plus you’ll also find free cover letter templates that are ready to use.

1. Grab Their Attention

Your cover letter is your chance to stand out from the crowd. You want to grab the recruiter’s attention straight away. You can do this by writing a great first paragraph.

In the first paragraph of your cover letter, write about why you’re excited to be applying for this particular job.

• Have you always admired the company?
• Do your past achievements fit perfectly with this role?
• Does this job match up with something you are passionate about?

Here’s an example of what we mean:

“ Dear Judith, As a highly motivated Customer Care Team Leader with more than 3 years of supervisory experience in a call center environment, I was excited to find your listing for Customer Service Lead. I have lots of valuable experience in providing great customer service in the healthcare industry, which would make me an asset to your team.”

2. Highlight Your Achievements

Your cover letter is your time to show off what you can do. Don’t be afraid of seeming arrogant. Let the recruiter know about how well you’ve done at your previous job.

The way to do this is by highlighting your achievements. Don’t just talk about what your job description was. Talk about what you achieved in that role.

• Try to use exact figures and numbers whenever possible (be specific)
• Include any awards you won
• Show how you made a real difference at that company.

Here’s an example:

“In my most recent role of Call Center Supervisor, I managed and motivated a customer service team that won the team of the month award for 6 straight months. I also contributed a new conversation format that was used company-wide and resulted in a 14% increase in sales.”

3. Show That You’d Be a Great Fit

Here’s a cover letter tip that will really get you noticed: Write about why you would be a perfect fit with their company culture.

Don’t know anything about the company culture? Just look it up. Oh, the wonders of the internet.

On most company websites you’ll be able to find the company’s mission statement, values, and other information about their company culture.

Find something that you agree with strongly, and include that in your cover letter.

• Does the company have a value of being kind and honest with customers?
• Does their product make a difference in the lives of their customers that you admire?
• Do they have a reputation of only selling the best quality items?

Take a look at this example:

“I admire that your company has a core value of being kind and honest with all of your customers. I feel certain that my own commitment to being compassionate towards both customers and co-workers would fit very well with your company culture.”

4. Pay Attention to the Job Description

It’s time to pull up that job description again, because you’re going to take a few notes.

Recruiters don’t put words in their job descriptions just to fill up space. They are making it clear what you’d be doing in the job, what kinds of skills they need someone to have, and what kind of an attitude they would like them to have.

Those are your clues to how you can frame yourself as the perfect person for the job. Take a pen and paper and take notes on what they’re looking for in their perfect employee.

• What are some of the most important responsibilities this job has?
• What skills and experience do they want their new employee to have?
• What kind of personality or qualities do they want in their new employee?

Now, tell them how you fit those requirements, like this:

“My experience in using XYZ software in a high volume call center, as well as my skill level in helping customers in crisis situations, would make me an ideal candidate for this position.”

5. Emphasize Your Value

Think about it from the recruiter’s point of view for a moment. Why should their company hire you, rather than other candidates? What’s in it for them?

That’s where your value comes in. Make it clear in your cover letter that your skills and experience would help their company in some way.

A great place to do this is in the final paragraph of your cover letter.

Think about these things:

• What is it that the company wants to achieve?
• How can you help them to achieve that?
• What specific skills and knowledge do you have that could make that happen?

Here’s a good example:

“I would love to have the opportunity to speak with you about your customer service needs, and how my success as a call center team leader can contribute to your company’s reputation as the best help desk in the country.”

6. Apply To Multiple Jobs

A successful job search is a bit of a numbers game - you want to apply for as many suitable jobs as possible. This increases your likelihood of finding the perfect position for you.

You’ll of course need a cover letter for every application you submit. We know what you’re thinking: wow, that’s a lot of cover letters!

If you want your cover letters to stand out, they need to be high quality and to seem anything but generic.

Text Blaze is the perfect solution for creating awesome cover letter templates super quickly.

With Text Blaze you can put together multiple personalized and high-quality cover letters in a flash.

5 Examples of Awesome Cover Letters

Sally Davis Customer Care Team Leader Phone: 123-456-7890 Email: [email protected]

Judith Thompkins Hiring Manager Sunshine Happiness Corporation 321 Sunshine Street Chicago, IL 60614

Dear Ms. Thompkins, As a highly motivated Customer Care Team Leader with more than 3 years of supervisory experience in a call center environment, I was excited to find your listing for Customer Service Lead. I have lots of valuable experience in providing great customer service in the healthcare industry, which would make me an asset to your team. In my most recent role of Call Center Supervisor, I managed and motivated a customer service team that won the team of the month award for 6 straight months. I also contributed a new conversation format that was used company-wide and resulted in a 14% increase in sales. My experience in using XYZ software in a high volume call center, as well as my skill level in helping customers in crisis situations, would make me an ideal candidate for this position. I admire that Sunshine Happiness Corporation has a core value of being kind and honest with all of your customers. I feel certain that my own commitment to being compassionate towards both customers and co-workers would fit very well with your company culture. I would love to have the opportunity to speak with you about your customer service needs, and how my success as a call center team leader can contribute to Sunshine Happiness Corporation’s reputation as the best help desk in the country.

Sincerely, Sally Davis

John Smith Phone: 123-456-7890 Email: [email protected]

{formtext: name=First name} {formtext: name=Last name} Hiring Manager {formtext: name=Company name} {formparagraph: name=Company address}

Dear {formmenu: name=Title; default=Ms.; Mr.; Dr.} {formtext: name=Last name},

As a talented and ambitious Customer Service Professional with 2 years of experience providing excellent customer care, I was thrilled to find your listing for the role of Customer Service Agent. I feel certain that the skills and experience that I have gained in my current role of Customer Care Associate for XYZ Corporation would make me an asset to your team.

In my current role, I consistently exceed company standards for delivering courteous customer service, and have been awarded agent of the year. I recently ranked number one in a customer survey challenge, with a 97% customer satisfaction score.

My experience in delivering great customer service in the Transportation industry, as well as my team-player attitude, would make me an ideal candidate for this position. I know that Fabricated Solutions has a reputation of excellence in this industry, and would be proud to be given the opportunity to contribute to that reputation. I would love to have the chance to speak with you about your customer service needs, and how my dedication and drive as an agent can bring success to your company. Sincerely, John Smith.

Betty Boop Staffing Recruiter Phone: 123-456-7890 Email: [email protected]

Dear {formmenu: name=Title; default=Ms.; Mr.; Dr.} {formtext: name=Last name}, I am excited to apply for the position of Staffing Recruiter at Sable & Sable, Inc. because of how perfectly the role matches my current skillset and experience. As a dedicated Staffing Recruiter with more than 5 years of experience in corporate recruitment, I feel certain that the level of skill I bring to the table would make me a perfect candidate for this role. In my current position as Staffing Recruiter for James Associates, I have personally overseen the corporate recruiting department of a prestigious law firm, which has required me to work with the utmost professionalism and attention to detail. These qualities would allow me to hit the ground running if given this opportunity. My in-depth experience in sourcing top candidates, as well as overseeing the application processes for a respected firm, would make me a great fit for this position. In addition, my values of transparency and authenticity would fit well with your company culture. I would love to have a conversation with you about Sable & Sable’s recruiting needs, and how my success as a Staffing Recruiter can contribute to your company’s growth. Sincerely, Betty Boop.

Janice Piper Phone: 123-456-7890 Email: [email protected] {formtext: name=First name} {formtext: name=Last name} Hiring Manager {formtext: name=Company name} {formparagraph: name=Company address}

Dear {formtext: name=First name}, I am writing to apply for the position of Retail Sales Assistant for Salon Select. After carefully reviewing the job description, I feel certain that I have the skills and experience to make me a perfect candidate for this role. I bring to the table more than 3 years of experience as a high-achieving retail salesperson in the beauty industry, which would make me a valuable member of your sales team if given the opportunity. In my current role at BeautyCo, I have consistently held a reputation as being the store’s top salesperson. In 2021 so far I have broken monthly sales records every month, with an average of 9% increase in revenue from last year. I have no doubt that my skillset would translate to similarly impressive results at Salon Select. I love your products and have been an avid customer of your company, so my enthusiasm would definitely be contagious when selling your products. I also love your commitment to being eco-friendly, because I am passionate about that issue myself. I would love to have a chat with you about your upcoming sales goals, and how my success in retail sales can contribute to your store’s growth.

Sincerely, Janice Piper

Daniel Davis Sales Associate Phone: 123-456-7890 Email: [email protected] {formtext: name=First name} {formtext: name=Last name} Hiring Manager {formtext: name=Company name} {formparagraph: name=Company address}

Dear {formmenu: name=Title; default=Ms.; Mr.; Dr.} {formtext: name=Last name}, I am writing to apply for the position of Call Center Sales Associate at Silver Star Hospitality. After reading your job description thoroughly, I feel certain that my skills and experience would make me a perfect candidate for this role. In my 3 years of experience in hospitality sales, I have developed a skillset that would allow me to hit the ground running at your company, if given the opportunity. In my current role of Call Center Sales Agent at Destiny Holidays, I reached and surpassed company-wide sales goals consistently. In March of 2021, I was the top salesperson in our 200 person call center, bringing in $22,000 in closed sales. I have years of valuable experience using Opera software for making, changing and canceling room reservations, as well as knowledge of how to use the software for rooms control operations and membership services. This expansive knowledge of the software would make me an asset to your sales team. I would love to have the opportunity to speak with you about Silver Star Hospitality’s sales goals, and how my success as a call center salesperson can contribute to your company’s growth. Sincerely, Daniel Davis.

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• Cover Letters

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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Best Cover Letter Examples To Nail Your Next Job Application

Create personalized cover letters for every job in minutes, not hours. 

A cover letter is overrated….said no HR person ever.

On the contrary, most treat a cover letter as a powerful add-on to a resume. Yes, even if it’s marked as *optional*.

Candidates who bother to write a cover letter (vs those who don’t) instantly appear more motivated and professional. Moreover, they establish a better rapport with the hiring authorities before even walking through the door.

Why? Because a cover letter gives you an opportunity to contextualize the qualifications and competencies you’re bringing up on your resume. Remember: You’re competing against other qualified people with very similar skill sets. A cover letter gives you an opportunity to show how you’re using your expertise in real-world settings, plus talk a bit further about your soft skills and passion for the selected profession.

When combined with a resume, your cover letter helps the employer get a wholesome picture of you as a candidate — and ring you up for a job interview.

Cover Letter Examples by Profession and Industry

If you’re tired of browsing generic cover letters which are clearly out of touch with the modern reality of work, you’ve landed at the right place. Freesumes runs an up-to-date database of sample cover letters, created and vetted by certified writers and HR experts.

Sample Cover Letters for Entry-Level Jobs

A compelling cover letter for a first job is as important as your resume. Learn how to talk your way into getting that job when you lack extensive work experience.

Entry-Level

Short Samples

Recent Graduate

Research Internship

Cover Letter Examples for Teachers and Educators

Academia and education favor good writing. Use our samples as prompts to build a strong case of why you’d make a strong addition to the faculty.

Substitute Teacher

Library Assistant

Admissions Counselor

Assistant Principal

Retail & Sales Cover Letter Examples

Show your abilities to persuade in writing by following our expert-level cover letter writing strategies for positions in sales and retail.

Store Manager

Cover Letter Examples for Healthcare

Put your emotional intelligence and well-rounded people skills upfront. Healthcare is a sector where hard and soft skills are equally valued.

Social Worker

Medical Assistant

Veterinarian Assistant

Administrative & Management Cover Letter Examples

Orchestrate a memorable first impression with a cover letter that shows how perfectly you’d fit into any position requiring strong organizational and (self)-management skills.

Receptionist

Administrative Assistant

Financial Analyst

Executive Assistant

Legal Assistant

Brand Manager

Office Manager

HR Assistant

Construction Project Manager

Production Manager

IT Cover Letter Examples

Use real-life cover letter examples to showcase your technical skills and a bit of personality to impress potential employers and score some of the highest-paid jobs.

Engineering

Front End Developer

Hospitality & Customer Service Cover Letter Examples

Make your personality stand out through writing by applying the tips we share alongside every sample cover letter for people-facing jobs.

Customer Service

Event Planner

Event Manager

Cover Letter Examples for Marketing & Creative Roles

Be a standout applicant by giving yourself the best promo. Our cover letter examples teach you how to present your creative abilities in the best light.

Publishing Industry

Graphic Designer

Assistant Producer

Project Manager

Marketing Assistant

Cover Letter Layout To Follow

Compelling cover letters – the one HR folks exchange with one another – have one thing in common: they follow the same structure and layout. That’s something you can easily do with our free cover letter creator .

That’s the first thing you need to master. You have just one shot to impress the same employer and you don’t want to lower your chance by making some basic mistakes in formatting.  So let’s take a closer look at the anatomy of successful cover letters.

Header section:  This one should take approximately 1/5 th  of your page and include your name and current position, e.g. Jane Smith, Chief Accountant. You can also add your headshot at the top left corner if you prefer (as an example above) to make your letter more personal. List your contact information just under your name and title.

Opening section:  This one should be formal. Add a date and type the full address of your employer in the following format:

To Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

This should be single-spaced and left justified. If you don’t know the full employer’s information, you can skip this. Though it’s advised to research those details in advance – this will show that you did your “homework” and didn’t just file some generic letters to a dozen companies in your industry.

Salutation:  As a rule of thumb, you should use the formal “Dear, [Mr/Ms Surname]”. Though if you are applying to some hip, modern company you can replace the old-fashioned “dear”, with a simple “Good day” or “Hello” or just “[Name Surname]” combo.

Opening paragraph:  This one’s pretty standard as well: state what position you are applying for, how you heard about the opening and why you are a solid candidate. You can make the last statement more attention-grabbing to entice the recipient to read on.

Body  of your letter:  This can take up to 2-3 paragraphs. Use the space to explain what makes you the perfect match for the announced position:

• Recap your work experience;
• Throw in some bragging rights: results achieved, big gun clients you worked for;
• Briefly summarize your education.

The second body paragraph should speak about why the company is the perfect match for you:

• State how and why this opportunity is a perfect match for your  career goals and expectations ;
• Mention how you can relate to the company’s mission and corporate values;
• Highlight that you are a good cultural fit for reasons X, Y, Z.

“Remember CPR (CHALLENGE – PROCESS – RESULTS)! In your cover letter, it is important to demonstrate your exponential value by incorporating strong examples of opportunities where you were presented with a challenge, your process to implement a solution, and the overall results.”

Career Consultant, CPCC, CPRW Colorado, United States

Closing paragraph:  Wrap up your pitch, thank the employer for considering you and include a call-to-action. Check our previous post for more  tips on how to close a cover letter  with a bang.

Formal closure:  Bade your goodbyes with a “Kind regards, [Your Name Surname] ”. If you are sending your cover letter the old-fashioned way by mail, you should also add a handwritten signature after that.

“Use a cover letter to introduce yourself, tell the hiring manager who you are, what you are looking for in your next career opportunity, how this job fits in with your career goals and explain why or how you can bring value to the company by highlighting your key skills which are aligned to the job description.”

HR Consultant London, United Kingdom

Top 3 Cover Letter Writing Styles

Sample classic cover letter.

For when your goal is to get that coveted position in a Fortune-500 corporate company or it’s smaller sized counterpart with equally big love for formalities, stick with a very formal, utterly professional cover letter.

This style works best for positions in big business, finance, law, government, retail, and education.

Dear Mr Thompson, I’m writing in response to the position of a Senior Associate Attorney in Divorce Law Firm, advertised on LawCrossing.com.  Enclosed you will find my CV.

As an Associate Attorney at FirmX, I was effectively handling probate administration, estate planning and guardianship cases for the past five years. I successfully won 90% of trials for my clients and negotiated favorable settlement agreements on behalf of my clients.

As a former Court Facilitator, Guardian Ad Litem in the state of Colorado, I also possess deep knowledge in family, juvenile and criminal law. My background in court has prepared me for serving to the clients with great compassion and integrity. My colleagues and bosses have noted on my exceptional negotiation skills, as well as great attention to details, discretion and analytical skills.

In 2015, I have re-joined by former alma mater (the University of Northern Colorado) as a part-time Adjunct Professor. I know that your Big Law Firm is well vested in promoting intellectual vigor among younger staff and future employees through mentorship programs, and I would be honored to join in as a mentor if given a chance.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my candidacy and I would welcome the chance to have an in-person discussion with you concerning my application.

Yours sincerely,

Daniela Baker

Speculative Cover Letter Example

Did you know that around  80% of jobs  are never advertised publicly? And yet, they are still getting filled in by the savvy candidates. The “Hidden Job Market” isn’t as mythical as Atlántida – it has been effectively thriving since the 1990s.

“Hidden job market” encompasses all the opportunities filled in through employee referral programs, networking and speculative applications.  Tapping into this cloaked area of job search means that you won’t rub with as many elbows as when applying for publicly advertised openings.

And here are your tips for finding those hidden opportunities:

• Just ask your friends and family first.  Yes, this is deadpan simple. But a lot of people don’t want to come forward about their job search to the close ones. And it’s a shame because your personal network – and the extended personal network – can probably help you land a few solid referrals.
• Ramp up your LinkedIn game.  Because LinkedIn is the biggest networking platform out there, where you can effectively connect with the key decision makers in your industry or a bunch of prolific headhunters, who can also send great opportunities your way. So please,  get your LinkedIn profile up-to-date  and  optimize it for relevant keywords .
• Direct applications.  The vast majority of company websites now have these “We are hiring” pages with all the listed openings. Most will also have a separate “general inquiry” section where you can file your cover letter and your CV.

Here’s a sample speculative cover letter you can file along with your application. Depending on the company/industry, such letters can vary in the degree of formality. This sample cover letter is modeled for a modern tech company.

Dear ‘Company Name’ IT Team,

I’ve read on your corporate blog that you have recently completed your migration to a microservices architecture (congrats!).

I believe that you may be now in need of experienced DevOps engineers to help you orchestrate your systems and fine-tune the continuous deployment pipeline. That’s why I am reaching out to propose my candidacy.

In my current role as Remote DevOps Engineer in e-commerce company XXX, I have managed to accomplish the following:

• Reduced deployment time for key infrastructure by a factor of 13.
• Directly managed AWS for the [project name], including configuration and deployment of all required infrastructure, administrative tasks, and budgeting.

I have a strong familiarity with the following tools and technologies:

• Programming skills: Java, JavaScript and C#
• Orchestration & container tools: Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes, Puppet.
• AWS-certified in 2017.

I’m also flexible to pick up new skills and eager to collaborate with others on your teams. I’m deeply impressed with how you managed remote work at your organization and foster collaboration within a globally distributed team.

Enclosing my CV for your consideration as well.

Regards, Dan Bloome

Creative Cover Letter Example

In some industries, being incredibly formal can work against you. Most startups or creative agencies will find the standard cover letter a tad bit too snotty and personality-less. Even the traditional companies have a soft spot for unusual applications.

The  viral cover letter example   below has recently  landed a great internship  with a very prestigious Wall Street firm:

The applicant was brutally honest instead of being painfully polite and superficially flattering.

Want to pull a similar stunt? Here’s a less non-conformist, but equally engaging and creative cover letter example. But do proceed with caution! Such letters may not work every time, with every employer.

Dear [Name Surname],

I think words are boring.

Puzzled to hear that from a copywriter?Well, words  alone  are boring.

When you just paste some random words to your landing page – no one’s buying from you. No one’s even  listening  to you. And that’s a bad thing for business (#obvious).

I know how to find the words that will stop your customers right there on the spot, make them scroll back, rub their eye…and reach for their credit card.

So hi, I’m James, a conversion copywriter.

I might have spoken to you earlier. If you browsed SaaS Company website or read CoolCompany blog the other day, that was all me, watching you from the other side of the screen.

I also did some okay writing for the following companies:

• AwesomeApp Landing Page – average conversion rate 12% and over 10,000 sign-ups in the first 24-hours after the launch.
• New Homepage for Brand Z – a 2X lift in conversions within 3 months.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

I don’t just write. I also talk – to your customers, your team and (sometimes in my sleep) – to capture that “special something” that makes everyone tick about your product. I also have a deep love for numbers and get way too excited by heatmaps (my girlfriend’s not thrilled, so please don’t tell her I mentioned this!).

So what do you say? Shall we talk about how I can help your brand develop that new unique voice and drive more sales through data-backed copy?

Regards, James Knight

P.S. I noticed one major gap on your Service Page Name. Doing a few quick improvements (copy- and design-wise) can increase your conversions by 10-15%.

No matter which format you choose to use, it’s alright to be flexible. Don’t follow the same structure or layout to the last T. Remove paragraphs as needed, experiment with different degrees of formality and don’t forget to customize each letter for each job you are applying for. Hiring managers can sense a generic cover letter a mile away. So you definitely do not want to eschew your chance for landing a job by forgetting to change something as basic as the company name or address!

• Job Search Essentials

Resume & Cover Letter

Career advice.

• Search for:

7+ Top Cover Letter Examples (2021)

January 02, 2021

What if I told you that you could speak directly to hiring managers, convincing them to hire you – even before they view your resume ?

Truth is, you can.

A well written cover letter helps you do just that! A cover letter explains your career narrative , essential skills you bring to the table, and why you’re a great fit for the job. It gives you one chance to communicate with hiring managers.

Give your best shot when writing it!

To guide you, here are some of our favourite cover letter examples. They are actual cover letters from our past clients who have landed interviews at some of the most selective firms in Australia. Think Dymon, AirBnB, and even Facebook!

You could also land a role at companies like these!

Follow our examples below. Dive deep into how to write cover letter with our Ultimate Cover Letter Guide . Or engage our writing consultants to craft an extremely personalised cover letter in your voice.

CL Sample Download Form – Blog Article

Cover Letters are extremely personal, and differ across every industry. We have an assortment of 20+ Cover Letter Samples covering various industry sectors . You can download and use these for free. Check them out!

List of Top Cover Letter Examples:

• SMB Marketing Manager (Facebook Cover Letter Example)
• Health and Safety Security Manager (Airbnb Cover Letter Example)

Sales Director Cover Letter Example

• Regulatory Risk and Compliance Cover Letter Example
• Finance Manager Cover Letter Example
• Returning Mother To The Workforce Cover Letter Example

Investment Manager Cover Letter Example

Smb marketing manager cover letter example.

This was a letter written by our team for a client who landed an interview with Facebook’s Small & Medium Business (SMB) Marketing team. It’s got the right amount of humour and professionalism for Facebook’s culture. It’s definitely one of our favourite letters written to date.

Explore more sample Cover Letters for Marketing roles and our Resume Sample for Marketing Manager role.

SMB Marketing Manager

Dear Mr. Hans,

I’m thrilled to be applying for the role of SMB Marketing Manager. With 4 years of marketing experience across Hong Kong and Indonesia, both as at an SMB (ad buyer) and agency (ad seller), I’ve come to understand both buyers and sellers of Facebook Ads.

• For the last 2 years, I’ve been head of digital marketing for a small handmade jewellery e-commerce store based in Hong Kong. Our craftsmen in Bali made the most beautiful bespoke bracelets and necklaces. Everyone who saw our designs loved them. There was just one problem – we needed more customers.With a tiny marketing budget of just 2’000 USD a month, we invested all our resources into the Facebook Ad platform. I’d glad to report that it paid off handsomely. The ability to zero in on our target customer (through the demographics tool) and test different marketing campaigns to see which one resonated the most (A/B testing tool) allowed us to gain a massive ROI on our shoestring budget. Our revenues are now over 10 times larger thanks for the clients we’ve acquired on Facebook.
• Prior to the sparkling jewellery stint, I spent 3 years at Grey Advertising’s digital arm based in Jakarta. Here, I supported 15 different accounts across 6 industries, being responsible for all their online marketing spend. We were on every platform – Adwords, Facebook, Yahoo Ads, Twitter etc. While each platform had it strengths, I personally found Facebook to be most effective at driving sales conversions, which is the only metric that mattered to our customers.Working at such a large agency, I learnt so much about the scientific approach to advertising. Every decision we made was driven by data. It fundamentally changed my approach to advertising when I later ran marketing for the jewellery SMB.

Having been on both sides of the table – running ads for an SMB and selling ads to large companies, I’ve developed an insider’s understanding of both parties. I’ve understood what key factors drive their decision making.

Facebook’s mission is to connect the world. Most assume it means connecting friends, but to me, Facebook is the best way for brands to connect with their audiences. And this applies to brands of all sizes, from large Fortune 500 companies to tiny startups. Facebook has democratized advertising. Every company with any advertising budget can now compete.

I’ve spent hours looking at videos on your website and reading employee reviews on Glassdoor. Everything I read about your company matches my own personal values. Facebook feels like the home I’ve been looking for. I think we’ll be great together.

So, shall we add each other on Facebook?

Sincerely, Mike Hartono

Health and Safety, Security (HSSE) Cover Letter Example

This cover letter was written for a client who was interested at a role at Airbnb. Tech companies are often the most selective amongst employers hence the need for creative cover letters like these.

Security Cover Letter Sample

Dear Mr. Royston,

I’m really excited to be applying for the Regional Safety & Security Officer position. With my prior work stints within the hospitality (Fullterton Hotel) and design (IKEA) industries, I feel I’ve garnered a good mix of experiences to make a great addition to the Airbnb Team.

Here are my top 5 reasons why I think I’d be the perfect next hire for your team:

• #1 – A mission that resonates: While I’m happily employed as a Safety and Security manager for IKEA, seeing the job post for Airbnb stopped me in my tracks. It’s so exciting seeing what Airbnb is doing for the sharing economy – giving travelers a chance to live in real homes as opposed to sterile hotel rooms. It’s a mission I really want to be a part of.
• #2 – Regional experience: Over the past 3 years, I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to craft safety policies for IKEA’s regional stores in Thailand, Australia & Malaysia. It was a phenomenal learning experience, tailoring our safety protocols around the nuances of each local market. It required plenty of research and a deep empathy for differing cultures. It’s a skill set I’m eager to hone further in Airbnb’s regional role.
• #3 – Strong safety record: While I’m not one to boast, I have had a perfect safety track record with no security infringements for the last few years. This includes leading IKEA Australia to comply with all audit requirements in 2015, their first successful compliance in 7 years.
• #4 – Crisis trained: As a former member of the elite Special Operations Command (Australia’s SWAT Team), I’m well trained in hostage incidents, bomb threats and close quarter battles. While I’ve never had to call upon these skills since I’ve left the police force, it does bring my colleagues comfort knowing I’m trained to remain calm in tense situations. (My firearm training also makes me a good candidate to have around in a zombie apocalypse)
• #5 – Creative industry experience: The past 3 years at IKEA have thought me so much about being creative. It’s difficult to summarise in a paragraph, but there is a distinct difference in a creative organisation’s culture. It’s opened my eyes to thinking more empathetically and always placing the user first. Skills which I believe will be useful at Airbnb given that both of your firm’s founders are design trained.

Funnily, I’ve noticed plenty of Airbnb homes use furniture from my current employer, IKEA. It always puts a smile on my face when I recognise a particular desk of drawers in a picture on an Airbnb listing.

With my wide range of experiences and strong safety track record, I’m sure I can keep a tight ship running at Airbnb. I’ve spent hours reading employee reviews online and on your website. Airbnb really feels like a great place to work. It’s a place I want to work.

I’m looking forward to hearing more about how we can work together to make Airbnb more awesome!

Best regards, Kelvin

Regulatory Risk & Compliance Cover Letter Example

This was a letter written by Linda Xie when she was applying to a role at Coinbase, a leading Bitcoin startup. Despite the role being way out of her league, Linda managed to snag a job offer which led to 2 happy years at one of Silicon Valley’s fastest growing unicorns.

Check out our Resume sample for Risk Manager role too.

Regulatory Risk & Compliance Cover Letter Sample

Dear Ms Niejadlik

I am currently an Analyst at AIG in New York where I have worked in the risk management department since 2012. While I have not actively been seeking new employment, I cannot pass up the opportunity to apply for the Regulatory Compliance Analyst position at Coinbase. I am extremely optimistic about the future of Bitcoin and I see Coinbase as playing a central role in it’s widespread adoption. The recent Mt. Gox bankruptcy filing not only made me realise that my background in risk and regulatory compliance is highly relevant to Bitcoin markets as they become more mainstream, but motivated me to look into opportunities at Coinbase. I am eager to switch industries and join Coinbase for a few reasons:

• I philosophically support Bitcoin as a decentralised, alternative currency and have been closely following cryptocurrencies since 2011
• Coinbase provides the single most convenient method for Bitcoin adoption
• The Coinbase operation is run by highly experienced people who are experts in their respective fields.

I support one Managing Director and three Directors at AIG with risk analytics and presentations. As a result, I am highly proficient with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word and Matlab. I have also worked closely with AIG’s internal databases as well as Microsoft Access. With only two years at AIG, my work representing our $400 billion portfolio are trusted to be sent directly to AIG’s senior management. I hope you agree that my background is a strong match with the Regulatory Compliance Analyst Position and I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications in more detail. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Linda Xie

For personnel in sales, it’s all about the sales targets you’ve hit. Be sure to emphasise that repeatedly and quantify your achievements with clear, substantiated numbers. Here’s a good sales cover letter example that shows how this can be done.

Explore more sample Cover Letters for Sales roles and Resume sample for Sales Manager .

Sales Director Cover Letter Sample

Dear Mr. XXX,

Re: Application for Position of XXXXX

My name is Joseph Tan and I’m a veteran sales director within the IT industry. Over the past 15 years, I’ve consistently exceeded my sales targets at bluechip firms such as HP, Microsoft and most recently, Salesforce.

As a senior sales director, my role is more strategic in nature. I focus on identifying macro trends within the software industry, identifying key customer pain points, our unique product selling points and generating suitable marketing materials and sales scripts to empower my sales teams.

Besides empowering my staff, I’ve also honed my skills in hiring the right talents to build high performance sales teams. My years of hiring have enabled me to create unique rubrics for identifying talent which are a right fit for the organisation. Due to the high paced nature of the IT industry, I value quick learners who can adapt to ever shortening product cycles.

Here is a brief history of my work experiences:

• In my current role as APAC Director with Salesforce, I’m charge of growing our CRM solution sales for Medium and Large clients within the retail space, across APAC. Over the past 3 years, my team and I have increased our revenues from this segment by 400%. We’ve captured a monthly recurring revenue of over 40 million USD thereby cementing our position as the market leader.
• In my previous role as Regional Director (MS Dynamics) for Microsoft, I once again specialised in leading teams to penetrate the CRM market focusing on Enterprise clients within South East Asia. After building a team of 20 from scratch, we exceeded our sales targets by 140% consecutively for 7 quarters.

I’m deeply passionate about the IT segment in Asia and believe the wave is just starting. I bring years of experience, honed from best practices at the of biggest tech companies in the region.

Attached is my resume with several customer referees. These are all excellent executives who I’ve had the pleasure of working with. Do feel free to contact them.

I’ve spent some time studying your market segment and your positioning. I see two untapped opportunities currently not being exploited by your firm. Firstly, around inbound content marketing. By crafting solution case studies and posting it online, we can foster more user trust and generate inbound leads from prospects searching online. The second area of opportunity lies in strategically placing advertising in business trade journals. I’ve previously achieved excellent ROI by using this method to penetrate new markets including Indonesia and Thailand, where our products had no brand awareness. I have detailed execution roadmaps which we can discuss in person should you select me for this interview.

I look forward for an opportunity to meet and discuss further. Thank you for your time in considering my application.

Yours faithfully, Joseph Tan

Finance Manager Cover Letter Example (For Mothers Returning To The Workforce)

If you’re a mother returning to the workforce, a cover letter will make a huge difference in assisting you to secure an interview. Employers have consistently found that mothers make better employees . Be proud of the family you’ve started and use it to your advantage.

Explore more sample Cover Letters for Finance roles and our Resume sample for Finance Manager .

Finance Manager Cover Letter Sample

I’m writing to apply to the Finance Manager position open at your firm. With over 8 years of experience both as finance manager at GE Capital and an auditor at KPMG, I’m confident of excelling at the role open at your organisation.

Having come from an audit background, I posses a unique ability in seeing both sides of the (accounting) table. This enables me to better spot control weaknesses, implement new best practices and install processes for continued smooth operations.

• In my last role as Finance Manager with GE Capital, I oversaw accounts for the leading commercial loans, leases and middle market finance solutions provider. Along with a team of 4, we managed over 2 billion USD in accounts. A key facet of my job was ensuring all reporting were as per US GAAP and SOX 404 requirements.
• In my previous role as Senior Auditor for KPMG, I worked with a broad range of clients in the finance industry. Here, I analysed accounts, identified regulatory violations and worked with client management teams to devise strategies to ensure compliance moving forward.

Since 2012, I’ve been on sabbatical attending to my newly born twins. I felt it was necessary to be there for them during their formative years. Now that they’re all grown up, I feel rejuvenated and eager to re-enter the job market. I’m aware that I’ve been away for a long period of time, hence my desire to enter at a more junior role, to ease myself back into the workforce. Rest assured, I’m not looking for an easy ride, I’m keen to maximise my talents and apply myself fully at your organisation.

Yours faithfully, Diana Chan

The finance sector remains one of the highest paid, and most sought after industries to work in within Australia. That means that competition is incredibly stiff. You’ll be up against some of the best.

The finance industry is a little more upright than the tech industry. As such, your cover letter needs to come across as being more measured.

Dear Mr. Yong,

Re: Application for Position of Vice President (Investments)

It is with great enthusiasm that I submit my application for the position of Vice President of Investments at Dymon Asia. Through my 5-year career, I’ve come to specialise in mergers and acquisitions, and have led a wide range of M&A projects across multiple industries. Indeed, I’m highly familiar with the entire M&A process from pre-deal due diligence to negotiation through to post-deal operations. I’ve been able to leverage on my experience, generating close to USD500M in total revenue throughout my tenure in various MNCs and boutique funds alike, and I am confident that I will be able to continue securing and leading lucrative deals for Dymon Asia.

Presently, I am a Senior Manager of Investments with JP Morgan Chase, where I am responsible for managing all financial-related matters within the Group, with an emphasis on the analysis and monitoring of our financial results. In addition, I led the development and implementation of our corporate business strategy, advising the Managing Director on long-term strategic plans for the development of the Group.

Amongst my various achievements during my tenure, I am most proud of having spearheaded negotiations for the acquisition of several key companies (which are now our subsidiaries) and securing marine asset financing worth a combined total of USD 370M amidst a regional financial downturn.

Dymon Asia is regionally known for its Asia Macro Fund, which has consistently ranked amongst the top macro funds globally. My background in finance, trading, and portfolio management, coupled with my practical experience in macroeconomic analysis and strategic development will allow me to contribute effectively to Dymon’s continued growth and performance, particularly by designing new investment strategies and generating new investment theses that will thrive amidst the rapidly changing investment climate we are facing today.

I am thrilled at the possibility of being part of such a renowned firm, and would love the opportunity to meet with you and discuss the value that I can bring to the Dymon Asia Group. I appreciate your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you. Please feel free to contact me at any time via mobile at +65 9999 9999 or by email at [email protected].

Yours sincerely, Phil, CFA

These Cover Letters were used in actual job applications to score interviews at some of the most competitive firms in Australia.

You could learn from them while writing your own!

Download the cover letter samples that inspire you, study them, and write your best cover letter for your next job application!

If you need more cover letter writing resources:

• Read our step-by-step guide on how to write a Cover Letter to understand the key components that make up a Cover Letter, and why you absolutely should write a Cover Letter (even if the job listing doesn’t say that it’s necessary).
• Browse our series of Cover Letter Samples & Templates , which cover most industries and professions in Australia. If you’d like to see a Cover Letter sample for a specific industry or role that’s not listed here yet, drop us an email !
• Understand how to customise your Cover Letter for different job ads. When it comes to job applications, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Give yourself the best possible advantage with a tailored Cover Letter.
• A Resume or CV and Cover Letter go hand-in-hand. Uncover our secrets to writing a killer resume  – these are our tricks of the trade, the actual techniques we use to train our own team of professional CV writers 😉

And finally, if you need a hand with writing your CV and Cover Letter, don’t struggle in silence!

Reach out to us for help. Our team would be happy to help you improve your CV and Cover Letter according to your own career and unique job search objectives.

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Cover letter Examples by Industry

Learn how to write a cover letter that highlights your accomplishments and attracts attention. Here are the best cover letter examples by industry to get more interviews and land the job of your dreams.

Cover letter examples in 2021

A great cover letter is an essential addition to your resume when looking for a job. It should include:

• professional greeting;
• introduction that presents your achievements and experiences;
• at least two body paragraphs showing why you are a great candidate for the position and how you are suitable for this company;
• closing paragraph with a call to action.

In this post, you’ll learn about the layout and style of a cover letter as well as the best skills to put on a resume . We’ve prepared excellent samples that help job seekers.

General Cover Letter Example

It has a traditional format and style. It can include not only the hiring manager’s name but also information on how you’ve found the posting. It needs to present your relevant experience and skills for the job as well as qualifications.

Professional cover letter example

It is perfect for those, who have wide experience in the field. It includes measurable results and an impact of your work on the previous job. It highlights your professionalism to employers.

Creative cover letter example

This one is more fitting for less traditional companies. It is less formal and can use simpler language. But it still has to be informative and powerful while making you stand out from the competition.

Entry-level cover letter example

This one is excellent for recent graduates and those who just start their career path. It needs to establish interest in the position, company, and skills that will be relevant.

Resume Is About You as an Expert. Cover Letter Is About You as a Person

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Accounting & Finance

An accounting cover letter example will help to prepare applications for the financial sector companies. One can learn what jobs do require such documents and what skills to include in the cover letter. Here are the best finance cover letter examples for accounting and finance jobs.

Administration & Office Support

Here are excellent administration cover letter examples to inspire and help to apply for the dream job. Craft an office support cover letter that will impress any hiring manager. Present your relevant experiences and skills with help of these samples.

Business & Management

A business cover letter is a crucial step when applying to positions in business and management. It shows your professionalism, dedication, and interest in the company, as well as skills and experience. Check out a management cover letter example for inspiration.

Construction & Maintenance

Land a job in this industry with an outstanding construction cover letter or top-notch maintenance cover letter. Learn how to present your qualifications to recruiters in the best light. Here are amazing examples of how to do that.

Creative & Cultural Field

Here you can find a sample cover letter for job in the creative or cultural field. It is a sphere where one can showcase their skills and work experience creatively. It doesn’t require such formality as other industries, so check out cover letter examples to get a better grip on the style.

Customer Service & Retail

These cover letter samples are perfect for a job application in customer service and retail. They help to present an applicant in the best way. You can craft a custom service cover letter after examining these great examples.

Education & Human Services

Good cover letter examples always include all the essential parts and showcase how to grab the recruiter’s attention right away. If you are interested in a fruitful career in education and human services, take your time to look at these excellent samples of cover letters.

Emergency Service

This section features examples of a cover letter for resume to apply for an emergency service position. It is important not only to tailor it to a specific company but also to make it industry-specific. It shows professionalism and relevant experience.

Engineering

If you are looking for a great example of cover letter to land an engineering job, search no more. These samples are from a career advice expert that knows exactly how to stand out from the competition in this field.

Food Service

To get a perfect job, it is important not only to craft a winning resume but also to write a powerful cover letter. Here one can find good cover letter examples specific to the food industry and related positions.

Healthcare & Wellbeing

Perfect examples are extremely helpful to create the best cover letter for a position in healthcare and wellbeing. If you’ve chosen this career path, invest your time in checking these samples. They are crafted by professionals in career advice and growth.

Information Technology (IT)

Being an expert in the field is not enough to get a job. A person also needs to create a resume and cover letter that accurately represents their expertise. These cover letter samples for the IT industry are perfect if you do not know where to start or how to advance your application.

Law & Legal

Legal cover letter examples follow traditional style and format as it is specific for the industry. Evaluate a cover letter sample and take notes on how to craft your custom one to present your skills and experiences.

Life Situation & Entry-Level Cover letter examples

These cover letter samples are useful for life situations or entry-level applications. It is often hard to showcase one’s skills if one does not have huge experience in the field. Yet, it is completely possible to stand out and make a good impressio

Marketing & Sales

These top-notch marketing cover letter examples will help a candidate to market themselves to a laborer. The samples can help with formatting, style, and focusing on measurable results. Treat them as essential career resources to get the desired position.

Personal & child care

In the field of personal and child care, a cover letter has a crucial part. It helps to introduce oneself and make a wonderful first impression. After all, it is not only about skills and experience but also about personality. Check out these cover letter examples specific to this industry.

Spa & Salon

Here one can look at professionally crafted cover letter samples for spa and salon positions. They are usually rare to find online, yet they are very helpful in the job application process. If you are interested in a position in this field, get inspired with the samples.

Transportation & Logistics

Looking for cover letter examples for job in transportation and logistics? Well, you’ve found them. We’ve got the best sources for you. Check out excellent samples to enhance your applications and get more interviews.

Cover Letter Examples: How to Write them + Hacks

• July 26, 2021

A cover letter is an essential document for job seekers, and it’s something that can be hard to get right.

Finding cover letter examples is harder that just works.

It would help if you convinced the hiring manager that you are a good fit for their company without coming across as too aggressive.

With so much at stake, it’s worth taking the time to do your research on how best to write one in 2022.

The following article will teach you what goes into writing a cover letter, plus provide valuable tips on how not only make yours stand out from other applicants but also increase your chances of getting called in for an interview.

It might seem like a daunting task now, but by reading this guide and practicing with some sample letters, you’ll be able to create effective letters every time – and land that all-important interview.

It’s always good to start writing a cover letter with the basics: your contact details, why you are writing, and an introduction to yourself.

Be direct and include brief information about what position you are applying for.

Let’s get a bit more in-depth as to how to write the best cover letter.

Table of Contents

What is a Cover Letter, and why is it so important?

A cover letter is a formal document that should accompany the resume.

It’s a tool that helps you make your case for why you are the perfect candidate for the job description and can be used to highlight essential skills and experiences that are relevant to your dream job.

Even if writing Cover Letters isn’t something, you do daily, writing a good one can make all the difference in getting an interview.

You might be thinking that writing Cover Letters is something you should pay someone else to do.

Checking various Cover Letter Examples is a great idea.

However, writing your own allows you to show your personality and writing style, which are all elements that hiring managers will look for when reviewing applications.

Before we start writing the cover letter itself, here are some general points to consider:

Research the company and the job description that you are applying for.

Show them that you’ve done your homework by highlighting key points from their articles or social media pages within yours.

A well-written cover letter makes a great first impression on your potential employer.

It is an excellent way of writing in-depth about your experiences, your educational backgrounds and skills, and how they match the role you are applying for.

What Should you include a Cover Letter Examples (That yours probably is lacking)

What are the key elements of writing a cover letter?

The following is not an exhaustive list but includes some key points for writing your own.

• Summary Statement : This should include a short overview of your background and experience, highlighting relevant skills and attributes that make you an ideal candidate for the role. Do not simply repeat what’s in your CV!
• Personal Profile : The personal profile section allows you to show them who you are as a person and how they can benefit from hiring you (not just what your credentials are). As such, this is arguably one of the most critical areas to get right within writing a cover letter. Remember, though – don’t be too informal or casual with this part; it needs to be professional (even when writing CVs and cover letters for writing jobs, your writing will still need to be grammatically correct and typo-free).
• Education : Include the dates of your degree or qualification as well as relevant course content details. If you are writing a CV for writing jobs, it is also worth mentioning any voluntary work or other extracurricular activities.
• Work Experience : The key points here are detail, detail, detail (but don’t waffle) – includes information about how long you have been in each role and where you worked; plus, more importantly, what skills and knowledge have you gained? You can also mention any volunteer experience but make sure that the job experience section outweighs this by at least 80% of the total word count within your writing a cover letter.
• References : This section should always be included, and ideally, it should consist of two to three professional referees who can vouch for your writing ability, skills, personality, and professionalism when writing a cover letter. Include the person’s name, contact details, and relationship to you (if relevant). If writing CVs for writing jobs, then consider asking if they would be happy to act as a referee at this stage before you ask them formally.
• Warming up to writing Cover Letters (and how) . When writing an excellent cover letter, there are several steps that you need to follow to get the most out of it. Don’t feel pressured into rushing through this process! Be patient with yourself and take your time with each step.

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter that people cannot say NO to!

• Write the Blanks : When writing a cover letter, writing it first in your own words can help you to draft out the sentences and overall structure of what you want to say. It helps with writing CVs too!
• Get Personal : Do not write your Cover Letter as if writing a CV. Instead, approach writing them in two stages – think about who will be looking over it so that you can tailor some of the content accordingly (this is just like writing for different audiences). It will also come across more naturally rather than generic, which might put off the hiring manager from taking a closer look at the cover letter as anyone could have written it. You can’t tell everyone how good you are at writing a cover letter!
• Eliminate Jargon : Get rid of as much jargon as possible and simplify your writing when writing CVs. If writing your CV for writing jobs, steer clear of using industry buzzwords or terms that may cause the reader to stop and think, ‘what does this mean?’. Keep it clear and concise.
• Keep it Active : Use action words in persuasive writing when writing a cover letter and highlight your key skills or achievements when writing CVs for writing jobs. This will help employers see what you are capable of doing, rather than just reading about what skills you already possess as part of writing a cover letter.
• Highlight Key Qualifications : If writing CVs for writing jobs, then the Cover Letter is an ideal opportunity to include any courses or qualifications relevant to the job role but were not included on your CV (e.g., writing techniques, marketing experience). In addition to this, consider additional information such as languages, software knowledge, etc., that may make a difference to your suitability for the job role.

More tips on how to write a cover letter example that leaves a fantastic impression

We have some more tips on how to leave a lasting impression on your potential new employer.

All meant to give you the best possible insight into how to increase your writing knowledge and land your next job.

Start the Cover Letter with a Header:

Starting with a header will help to create an impact.

You can use different font sizes to make it stand out or even add some color to get your reader interested immediately.

Greet the Hiring Manager

Check for the name of the hiring manager or person to whom you will be writing your cover letter. Use their name and then greet them by writing ‘Dear __________’. It’s a good way to open up a correspondence.

Format and Style

Formatting and writing style are essential.

Take the time to create a standard format and stick to it throughout your writing process – don’t change structure or colors mid-way through writing a cover letter!

Add the Postscript, a Great Hack Nobody Uses

A postscript at the end of your writing makes a great closing paragraph.

Postscript can highlight further why you are writing to them and the relevance you would bring to their company.

Don’t forget Your References.

It will show how well you can work with others and reinforce your writing skills.

Remember to add the reference’s name, contact information, and position title when writing references.

It is a writing CV writing tip which might seem easy, but it only works if you remember to write them!

Cover Letter Examples

Below you can find a well-structured cover letter that will entice a future employer to look at your CV and get on a call with you to invite you to an interview.

It is short but highlights the best features of the applicant in a manner that would entice the person in charge to get on that call.

Below example is for a social media content writer which you could use a cover letter template and customize to match your own style:

” Dear _____,

Thank you for the opportunity to write to you and show what I have to offer. My writing skills are versatile, and I am more than happy to use writing content that is social media-ready.

I am writing this letter because I find a need for creating content that is meaningful and can be used on social media. My writing skills cover various styles, with some writing being informal and others writing informative. It all depends on the intended audience.

I also hope that my experience with writing articles, blogs, posts would make me a good fit for your company and hopefully the perfect addition to your team.

Yours sincerely,

________________” 

Writing a cover letter is essential for your next job application.

There are many different tips and tricks that can help you write a fantastic cover letter, from writing the header, greeting the hiring manager, formatting your writing style, and referencing other writers to convince them of how well you work with others.

A generic cover letter may seem easy to grab somewhere from the internet, but having a personalized one created with the above cover letter tips should get you much closer to landing that new dream job!

The postscript at the end of your writing makes a great closing paragraph that highlights why you’re writing this particular person and what would bring value to their company.

We hope these tips and our cover letter examples will give you some insight on how best to craft one that leaves an impression on any future employer – all meant to make sure they take notice!

If instead, you would like to start your own business then a startup incubator program might exactly be what you are looking for!

Udit Goenka

Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2024?

Published: April 03, 2024

Writing a cover letter can be daunting.

I’ll never forget my college career coach, who made writing a cover letter look easy. Even with her tips, I’ve always found it incredibly difficult to talk about myself and hype up my accomplishments.

While it acts as a letter of introduction, I’ve wondered if a cover letter is necessary in 2024. To find out, I spoke with two recruiters and gained insights on how to write the best cover letter for any job application.

How important is a cover letter?

Is a cover letter necessary, when to skip a cover letter, when to include a cover letter, tips for writing a cover letter, what if the cover letter is optional.

Cover letters are short letters of introduction that you include with job applications.

Typically, they are your chance to go into deeper details about your accomplishments that you might not have highlighted or had room to mention on your resume.

Tiffany Hall, a professional resume writer and founder of Resume911 , says cover letters are an important part of the job application process.

Hall says, “Cover letters can be very important. It’s supposed to sell why you, of all applicants, should get the job. The issue is that applicants use them to regurgitate what’s on their resume, and that’s not what it’s for. It should speak to what isn’t easily explained with your resume.”

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For example, if your resume says you’re skilled at building web pages, your cover letter is a great place to name-drop companies that you’ve worked for to create their websites.

Matthew Muehleisen, a corporate recruiter , thinks a cover letter is also a great place to show you’ve done your homework and researched a company.

Muehleisen says, “It can be what sets you apart from other candidates and applicants and is a good opportunity to show that you’ve done research on the position and company to further showcase your interest in the role.”

Knowing the importance of a cover letter still begs the question: Is a cover letter necessary in 2024?

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While a cover letter can help demonstrate your knowledge of the company you’re applying to and highlight more of your achievements, both Hall and Muehleisen agree that a cover letter isn’t entirely necessary.

Muehleisen says, “Unless it’s a requirement of the application, I wouldn’t say it’s necessary to include a cover letter. There are some roles (usually in content creation and marketing) that will ask for a cover letter as a form of a writing sample. In these instances, make sure your letter is polished and focused.”

If Hall had her way, she would eliminate the cover letter entirely, focus more on the resume, and ask for a link to an applicant’s LinkedIn profile.

According to Hall, “Most cover letters either repeat the resume or they speak to why the applicant isn’t a good fit. Neither is the purpose of a cover letter.”

Nevertheless, 74% of hiring managers still prefer applications to include a cover letter. So, it is definitely worth considering including one — even if the application says it’s optional.

If you’re looking for a new role, writing a cover letter can be time-consuming — especially if you take the time to personalize every letter you send to a hiring manager.

Although a cover letter does serve a legitimate purpose, and 83% of hiring managers read it, there are a few situations where you shouldn’t include a cover letter. Let’s take a look at those scenarios.

If You Only Have a Template of a Cover Letter

I get it. Writing an effective cover letter takes a significant amount of time.

But consider not sending one if you only have time to plug your information into a cover letter template without personalizing it before hitting submit on an application.

Don’t get me wrong. A cover letter template is a great starting point to write your cover letter. Templates often remind you to include pertinent information like the hiring manager’s title, name, and your contact information.

However, if you don’t take the time to edit the body of the cover letter and personalize it with research and your relevant experience, you risk sending the same letter as another candidate.

And considering that 48% of hiring managers spend anywhere from 30 seconds to two full minutes reading each cover letter, the chances are high that your hiring manager can spot a form letter a mile away.

Don’t send it if you don’t have the time to personalize a cover letter.

If Your Cover Letter Is Full of Critique

A cover letter is meant to explain why you’re the best candidate for the open position. However, a cover letter is not a place for you to share your ideas of how the company can improve.

Sure, every company likely has areas of improvement, and the job you’re applying for might be the role that gets a say in that, but a list of improvements might read as a critique.

You don’t want to potentially offend a hiring manager before you even get an interview. A bad cover letter can hurt a strong candidate, according to 33% of hiring managers .

Before you submit your cover letter, read through it several times to make sure it’s not a critique. If it does sound like a critique, throw it out.

If It’s Not Required

There are other instances where you shouldn’t send a cover letter. For example, if the application’s instructions specifically state that you do not need to submit a cover letter for consideration for the job.

In fact, sending a cover letter anyway can signal to the hiring manager that you don’t follow instructions. Not following instructions is also a great way to land your application in the trash bin.

The bottom line is this: If the application specifically states not to send a cover letter, don’t send it.

Of hiring managers, 74% prefer to see job applications with a cover letter apart from the resume. Knowing this, if you have the time to include a cover letter with your job application, don’t skip it.

Here are three instances when you should send a cover letter with your application.

Send a cover letter if you’re very interested in the role.

Think of your cover letter as your time to shine. Use it as a place to highlight your experiences and the qualifications that make you a great fit for the position.

Hall says, “If you can speak to why you’re a good candidate without copying your resume in paragraph form, include a cover letter.”

In other words, don’t use bullet points in your cover letter to describe your previous employment history.

Instead, talk about what you learned on the job and how your skills will help you excel in the role you’re applying for.

Send a cover letter when there’s a gap in your resume or you’re transitioning industries.

If you’re looking to transition to another industry, you should definitely include a cover letter with your application.

Speaking from personal experience, if I had only submitted a resume to my school district when I applied to be a Spanish teacher, the hiring manager would have just seen my experience in Public Health and would not have known about my skills and success in tutoring students in Spanish.

Muehleisen puts it this way, “If you’re looking to transition to a new industry or if there is a position and company you’re really excited about pursuing as an opportunity, these are the best instances to include a cover letter so that you can possibly give yourself an advantage.”

A cover letter can also help explain any gaps in your resume — especially if the gap in your employment history is beneficial to the role you’re applying for.

For example, maybe you volunteered in South America, and the role you’re applying for is for a position in Global Operations.

It never hurts to include positive, pertinent information in your cover letter.

Send a cover letter when it’s required.

The most obvious time to include a cover letter with your application is when it is required. Just like not including a cover letter when it’s not required, it shows you can follow directions.

Include a cover letter when the application asks you to submit one, which shows you can follow directions.

Plus, if the application asks for a cover letter, you can bet the hiring manager will look for it. If no cover letter is included, well, you’re sabotaging your chances of getting an interview.

Only 13% of hiring managers will consider giving a candidate an interview if they don’t attach a required cover letter to an application.

Writing a cover letter is not as painful as it sounds. There are great templates you can use as a starting point for your cover letter.

The trick with a template, though, is to make sure you always personalize the letter to your own experiences and qualifications.

Here are five expert tips to write a winning cover letter.

1. Tailor your cover letter to the job description.

When writing a cover letter, especially if you use a cover letter template, you should tailor the letter to match the job description and meet the requirements of the application.

For example, if the application asks you to attach a short cover letter, keep it brief. Your best bet is one to two short paragraphs detailing why you’re a great fit for the position.

You’ll also want to reference keywords from the job description in your cover letter. Many recruiters use applicant tracking systems that scan application packets for the best fit.

Often, hiring managers review the applications that match the keywords first.

Now, that doesn’t mean to stuff your cover letter with keywords. Instead, use them in a natural way as you discuss your qualifications.

2. Be personable with your greeting.

You might have seen the advice telling you to use “To Whom It May Concern” instead of the hiring manager’s name. This is good advice, but only if you do not know the hiring manager.

Before resorting to a generic greeting to start your cover letter, take the time to look on the company’s website and LinkedIn to find out who makes hiring decisions.

If you have contacts in your network who are familiar with the company, ask them. Taking the time to research the hiring manager and the company shows you care about the details — a quality many hiring managers look for in a candidate!

If you’re still unsure after researching the company, consider using “Dear Sir or Madam” as your greeting.

3. Be yourself.

While a cover letter is a formal introduction of yourself to a potential employer, it doesn’t need to be lacking in personality. Hall suggests sprinkling your personality in your cover letter to spark connections with the hiring manager.

Hall says, “Be your best professional self. I’m a foodie and will include references to food on my LinkedIn, and I’ve done it in a cover letter. I’ve had managers reference them, and we had a chuckle. I am also very clear about aligning myself with companies whose mission and goals I respect and can contribute to. I make sure to speak to that in the cover letter.”

Take Hall’s advice. Showcasing your vibrant personality in your cover letter can help break the ice in your interview!

4. Proofread your cover letter.

Once you’ve written your cover letter and before you hit “send,” double-check that it is free from spelling and grammar errors and that the company you referenced is the company you are applying to.

Muehleisen says skipping proofreading your cover letter is a big mistake — and it could cost you the job!

Muehleisen says, “Make sure that you are proofreading prior to sending. If the cover letter feels like it is a simple cut/paste or if the job title and company name are incorrect, it may do more harm than good. So, be sure that what you’re sending is pertinent.”

5. Be cautious of AI.

AI tools, like ChatGPT or Claude, are great for helping draft content. You might be tempted to ask generative AI to write your cover letter for you. However, both Hall and Muehleisen say to proceed with caution when it comes to AI.

Hall says, “AI is coming along in amazing ways, so it may come as a surprise that my best tip didn’t include AI. I tell my clients when they’re stuck to look to their peers. You can search people by job title on LinkedIn. See how they describe themselves and pull from there. Or, hire a resume writer or career strategist to help you.”

Muehleisen agrees with her. He says, “I would hesitate to use a tool or service for a cover letter as the point should be to show your authenticity. If you are going to use AI for assistance, make sure to put your own words in as well.”

However, when you write your cover letter, whether using a template or generative AI, personalizing it is key to standing out from the competition.

If the job description says a cover letter is optional, should you send one, or can you get by without it?

That can be tricky, considering 72% of recruiters still expect a cover, even if it’s optional.

According to Muehleisen, sending a cover letter is not a bad idea. He says, “I’ve never heard of a cover letter hurting an applicant’s chances; just make sure the one you’re including is specific to the job description and posting.”

Check out these cover letter examples for more inspiration.

Experiment With Your Cover Letters

Writing a cover letter is a breeze once you get the hang of it. With today’s challenging job market, sending a cover letter with your application can make a difference in whether you get called for an interview.

I can’t make promises that your cover letter will dazzle hiring managers each time, but for the right position for you, it will.

Remember Hall and Muehleisen’s advice when you craft your cover letter. Personalization is key to success!

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