Jobscan > Cover Letter Examples
Cover Letter Examples for Job Seekers in 2023
With so many different types of jobs out there, it can be tough to know how to tailor your cover letter. But by following these examples, you'll be able to write a cover letter that will make you stand out from the crowd!
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How important is a cover letter?
If you think cover letters are no longer relevant in today’s job market, think again. According to a recent survey , 83% of hiring managers say cover letters play an important role in their decision-making process.
In fact, 83% of the respondents to the survey said that a great cover letter can get you an interview , even if your resume isn’t good enough .
Amazingly, only 38% of candidates send a cover letter, even when it’s required .
This means that a strong cover letter will give you a significant edge over other job applicants. So if you’re not already including a cover letter with your job applications, it’s time to start doing so.
In this guide, we’ll provide some tips on how to write an effective cover letter, as well as some good cover letter examples to help get you started.
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The 4 types of cover letters (with examples)
There are four types of cover letters. They are:
- The application cover letter
- The career change cover letter
- The networking cover letter
- The prospecting cover letter
The general structure of all four cover letters will remain the same, or at least similar, regardless of your cover letter’s intent. This structure can be broken down into three steps:
Step 1 – Introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the position.
Step 2 – Highlight your relevant skills and experience.
Step 3 – Thank the employer for their time and express your interest in meeting with them to discuss the role further.
Here are examples of the four types of cover letters. Each example can all be downloaded for free and customized to fit your needs.
Application Cover Letter Example
Career Change Cover Letter Example
Prospecting Cover Letter Example
Networking Cover Letter Example
Cover letter examples by job
When you’re applying for a specific job, remember that your cover letter should not simply repeat the information in your resume verbatim. Instead, your cover letter should enhance your resume .
For example, you might use your cover letter to explain why you are particularly interested in the company, or to highlight a specific skill or accomplishment . In essence, your cover letter should give the employer a better sense of who you are and what you have to offer.
Here are some professional cover letter examples tailored for specific jobs. Each example can all be downloaded for free and customized to fit your needs.
Communications Specialist Cover Letter Example
Employment Specialist Cover Letter Example
Project Manager Cover Letter Example
Marketing Manager Cover Letter Example
Operations Cover Letter Example
Pharmacy Technician Cover Letter Example
Software Engineer Cover Letter Example
Warehouse Manager Cover Letter Example
Cover letter example for an internship
Writing a cover letter for an internship can be a little tricky since you probably don’t have much experience. Here are four tips to help you create an effective cover letter for an internship:
- Focus on what you have accomplished in your academic and extracurricular activities, and how those experiences have prepared you for the internship.
- Do your research and tailor your cover letter to the specific organization and internship role. This will demonstrate your interest and commitment.
- Highlight any relevant skills or experiences that you do have, even if they’re not directly related to the internship role.
- Finally, be enthusiastic and convey your excitement for the opportunity to learn and grow in the role.
By following these tips, you can write a cover letter that will help you land the internship you’re after.
Here’s a sample cover letter for an internship:
Internship Cover Letter Example
Don't make this common cover letter mistake!
One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is sending out the same cover letter with each application.
A cover letter is an opportunity to sell yourself to a potential employer, and it should be specific to the job you’re applying for. Generic cover letters are often quickly disregarded by hiring managers, but a well-tailored cover letter can make all the difference.
Another reason why you should tailor your cover letter is because of applicant tracking systems (ATS). Many companies now use these systems to screen candidates, and generic cover letters are often filtered out.
To avoid this, make sure that your cover letter contains the exact same job title and skills that are in the job description. This way, when hiring managers search through the ATS for job candidates, your cover letter will stand out.
If you’re not sure whether your cover letter is properly tailored to the job you’re applying to, run it through Jobcan’s cover letter checker . It analyzes your cover letter and compares it to the job listing to identify the key skills and qualifications that recruiters are looking for.
You’ll get personalized feedback on how to improve your cover letter and make it more compelling to employers.
Want customized tips for your cover letter?
Jobscan's cover letter optimization tool provides custom advice to help you land the job you want, faster.
Cover letter FAQs
What do i write in a cover letter.
While your resume is typically a factual account of your qualifications, a cover letter allows you to tell a potential employer why you are the best candidate for the job .
Your cover letter is an opportunity for you to:
- Elaborate on your qualifications and professional experience.
- Describe your career objectives.
- Explain any gaps in your employment history.
- Talk about your motivation to join the company.
- Sell yourself!
It is important to take the time to craft a well-written cover letter as it can give you a competitive edge over other candidates.
What 5 things should a cover letter include?
Here are the five essential elements of a cover letter:
- An introduction : The first sentence of your cover letter should state who you are and why you are writing.
- An overview of your qualifications : In the second paragraph, briefly describe your qualifications and explain why you are a good fit for the position.
- A specific example : In the third paragraph, provide a specific example of a time when you used your skills to achieve success. This could be from your professional or personal life.
- A call to action : The final paragraph should include a call to action , such as requesting an interview or asking for further consideration.
- A professional closing : End your cover letter on a positive note by thanking the reader for their time and expressing your excitement about the opportunity.
What 3 main points should be included in your cover letter?
- Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the position. This is your chance to make a good first impression, so be sure to be polite and professional.
- Highlight your relevant qualifications and experience. This is where you can really sell yourself as the ideal candidate for the job. Be sure to include specific examples of your successes and accomplishments.
- Thank the employer for their time and consideration. Then, you can express your interest in meeting with them to discuss the job further.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your cover letter makes a strong impression and increases your chances of landing an interview.
How do I write a cover letter as a student?
As a student, you should treat your education, volunteer work, school projects, and personal projects as your past experience. Talk about your future goals that are relevant to the job and explain how you will achieve those goals.
How do cover letters vary from job to job?
While the general structure of your cover letter will remain pretty much the same, you should always tailor your letter for each job you apply to. This means including the job title and skills that are listed in the job description.
How do I write a cover letter for a career change?
Read the job posting carefully and determine any similarities between your past work experience and what’s required in the new job. Talk about your goals for your career change and what you want to accomplish in your future career.
What is the difference between a cover letter and a resume?
Your resume is a brief listing of your past experience, while your cover letter expands on your experience and lets some of your personality come through.
Should I mention my salary expectations in a cover letter?
No. Conversations about salary should be reserved for a job interview.
How should I address the reader of a cover letter?
Always try to address the hiring manager or recruiter by their name . You can call the company and ask for their name or look it up on the company website or LinkedIn. Never use “To Whom it May Concern” as it is too impersonal.
How long should my cover letter be?
Cover letters should always be short. Try to keep it to one page.
Explore more cover letter resources
Cover Letter Writing Guide
Cover Letter Tips
Cover Letter Examples
Cover Letter Templates
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How to Write a Cover Letter
Advice for tackling one of the toughest parts of the job-hunting process.
Perhaps the most challenging part of the job application process is writing an effective cover letter. And yes, you should send one. Even if only one in two cover letters gets read, that’s still a 50% chance that including one could help you. Before you start writing, find out more about the company and the specific job you want. Next, catch the attention of the hiring manager or recruiter with a strong opening line. If you have a personal connection with the company or someone who works there, mention it in the first sentence or two, and try to address your letter to someone directly. Hiring managers are looking for people who can help them solve problems, so show that you know what the company does and some of the challenges it faces. Then explain how your experience has equipped you to meet those needs. If the online application doesn’t allow you to submit a cover letter, use the format you’re given to demonstrate your ability to do the job and your enthusiasm for the role.
No one likes job hunting. Scouring through online job listings, spiffing up your résumé , prepping for grueling interviews — none of it is fun. For many, the most challenging part of the process is writing an effective cover letter. There’s so much conflicting advice out there, it’s hard to know where to start. Do you even need one, especially if you’re applying through an online system?
What the Experts Say
The answer is almost always yes. Sure, there will be times when you’re submitting an application online and you may not be able to include one, but whenever possible, send one, says Jodi Glickman, a communications expert and author of Great on the Job . “It’s your best chance of getting the attention of the HR person or hiring manager and an important opportunity to distinguish yourself from everyone else.” And in a tight job market, setting yourself apart is critical, says John Lees, a UK-based career strategist and author of Knockout CV . Still, as anyone who’s ever written a cover letter knows, it’s not easy to do well. Here are some tips to help.
Do your research first.
Before you start writing, find out more about the company and the specific job you want. Of course, you should carefully read the job description, but also peruse the company’s website, its executives’ Twitter feeds, and employee profiles on LinkedIn. This research will help you customize your cover letter, since you shouldn’t send a generic one. It’ll also help you decide on the right tone. “Think about the culture of the organization you’re applying to,” advises Glickman. “If it’s a creative agency, like a design shop, you might take more risks, but if it’s a more conservative organization, like a bank, you may hold back.”
If at all possible, reach out to the hiring manager or someone else you know at the company before writing your cover letter, advises Lees. You can send an email or a LinkedIn message “asking a smart question about the job.” That way you can start your letter by referencing the interaction. You might say, “Thanks for the helpful conversation last week” or “I recently spoke to so-and-so at your company.” Of course, it’s not always possible to contact someone — or you may not get a response. That’s OK. It’s still worth a try.
Focus it on the future.
While your résumé is meant to be a look back at your experience and where you’ve been, the cover letter should focus on the future and what you want to do, says Glickman. “It can be helpful to think of it as the bridge between the past and the future that explains what you hope to do next and why.” Because of the pandemic there is less of an expectation that you’ll be applying for a job that you’ve done before. “There are millions of people who are making career changes — voluntarily or involuntarily — and need to pivot and rethink how their skill set relates to a different role or industry,” says Glickman. You can use your cover letter to explain the shift you’re making, perhaps from hospitality to marketing, for example. Think of it as an opportunity to sell your transferrable skills .
Open strong.
“People typically write themselves into the letter with ‘I’m applying for X job that I saw in Y place.’ That’s a waste,” says Lees. Instead, lead with a strong opening sentence . “Start with the punch line — why this job is exciting to you and what you bring to the table,” says Glickman. For example, you might write, “I’m an environmental fundraising professional with more than 15 years of experience looking for an opportunity to apply my skills in new ways, and I’d love to bring my expertise and enthusiasm to your growing development team.” Then you can include a sentence or two about your background and your relevant experience, but don’t rehash your résumé.
Read more about
How to Write a Resume That Stands Out
Chances are the hiring manager or recruiter is reading a stack of these, so you want to catch their attention. But don’t try to be funny. “Humor can often fall flat or sound self-regarding,” says Lees. Stay away from common platitudes, too. “Say something direct and dynamic, such as ‘Let me draw your attention to two reasons why I’d be a great addition to your team.'”
If you have a personal connection with the company or someone who works there, also mention it in the first sentence or two. And always address your letter to someone directly. “With social media, it’s often possible to find the name of a hiring manager,” says Glickman.
Emphasize your personal value.
Hiring managers are looking for people who can help them solve problems. Drawing on the research you did earlier, show that you know what the company does and some of the challenges it faces. These don’t need to be specific but you might mention how the industry has been affected by the pandemic. For example, you might write, “A lot of health care companies are overwhelmed with the need to provide high-quality care while protecting the health and safety of their staff.” Then talk about how your experience has equipped you to meet those needs; perhaps explain how you solved a similar problem in the past or share a relevant accomplishment. You want to provide evidence of the things that set you apart.
Lees points out that there are two skills that are relevant to almost any job right now: adaptability and the ability to learn quickly. If you have brief examples that demonstrate these skills, include those. For example, if you supported your team in the shift to remote work, describe how you did that and what capabilities you drew on.
Convey enthusiasm.
“When you don’t get hired, it’s usually not because of a lack of skills,” says Glickman. “It’s because people didn’t believe your story, that you wanted the job, or that you knew what you were getting into.” Hiring managers are going to go with the candidate who has made it seem like this is their dream job. So make it clear why you want the position . “Enthusiasm conveys personality,” Lees adds. He suggests writing something like “I’d love to work for your company. Who wouldn’t? You’re the industry leader, setting standards that others only follow.” Don’t bother applying if you’re not excited about some aspect of the company or role.
Watch the tone.
At the same time, don’t go overboard with the flattery or say anything you don’t mean. Authenticity is crucial. “Even if you’ve been out of work for months, and would take any job at this point, you want to avoid sounding desperate ,” says Lees. You don’t want your tone to undermine your message, so be professional and mature. A good rule of thumb is to put yourself in the shoes of the hiring manager and think about “the kind of language that the hiring manager would use with one of the company’s customers.” Of course, it can be hard to discern your own tone in writing, so you may need to ask someone to review a draft (which is always a good idea anyway — see advice below). Lees says that he often cuts outs “anything that sounds like desperation” when he’s reviewing letters for clients.
Keep it short.
Much of the advice out there says to keep it under a page. But both Glickman and Lees say even shorter is better. “Most cover letters I see are too long,” says Lees. “It should be brief enough that someone can read it at a glance.” You do have to cover a lot of ground — but you should do it succinctly. This is where asking a friend, former colleague, or mentor to review your letter can be helpful. Ask them to read through it and point out places where you can cut.
Get feedback.
In fact, it’s a great idea to share your cover letter with a few people, says Lees. Rather than sending it off and asking, “What do you think?” be specific about the kind of feedback you want. In particular, request two things. First, ask your friend if it’s clear what your main point is. What’s the story you’re telling? Are they able to summarize it? Second, ask them what’s wrong with the letter. “Other people are more attuned to desperation, overselling, over-modesty, and underselling,” says Lees, and they should be able to point out places where the tone is off.
When you can’t submit a cover letter.
Many companies now use online application systems that don’t allow for a cover letter. You may be able to figure out how to include one in the same document as your résumé, but that’s not a guarantee, especially because some systems only allow for data to be entered into specific boxes. In these cases, use the format you’re given to demonstrate your ability to do the job and your enthusiasm for the role. If possible, you may try to find someone to whom you can send a brief follow-up email highlighting a few key points about your application.
Principles to Remember
- Have a strong opening statement that makes clear why you want the job and what you bring to the table.
- Be succinct — a hiring manager should be able to read your letter at a glance.
- Share an accomplishment that shows you can address the challenges the employer is facing.
- Try to be funny — too often it falls flat.
- Send a generic cover letter — customize each one for the specific job.
- Go overboard with flattery — be professional and mature.
Advice in Practice
Case study #1: demonstrate an understanding of what the company needs..
Michele Sommers, the vice president of HR for the Boys & Girls Village, a nonprofit in Connecticut, recently posted a job for a recruiting and training specialist. “I was looking for someone with a strong recruiting background who could do everything from sourcing candidates to onboarding new hires,” she says. She also wanted the person to hit the ground running. “We’re a small team and I can’t afford to train someone,” she says.
More than 100 candidates applied for the job. The organization’s online application system doesn’t allow for cover letter attachments, but one of the applicants, Heidi (not her real name), sent a follow-up email after submitting her résumé. “And it’s a good thing she did, because she would’ve been weeded out otherwise,” Michele says.
Heidi’s résumé made her look like a “job hopper” — very short stints at each previous employer. Michele assumed she was a poor performer who kept getting fired. She was also the only candidate who didn’t have a four-year college degree.
But Heidi’s email caught Michele’s eye. First off, it was professional. Heidi stated clearly that she was writing to double-check that her application had been received. She went on to explain how she had gotten Michele’s name and information (through her husband’s boss, who was on the board) and her personal connection to Boys & Girls Village (her father-in-law had done some work with the organization).
Further Reading
Stand Out in Your Interview
What really stood out to Michele, though, was Heidi’s understanding of the group and the challenges it was facing. She’d done her research and “listed some things she would do or already had done that would help us address those needs,” says Michele.
“The personality and passion she conveyed in the cover letter came through during her phone screening,” Michele says. Heidi ended up being more than qualified for the job. “I wanted this role to be bigger from the get-go, but I didn’t think that was possible. When I met her, I knew we could expand it.” Three weeks later Michele offered Heidi the job and she accepted.
Case Study #2: Catch their attention.
Over the past four years, Emily Sernaker applied for multiple positions at the International Rescue Committee (IRC). She never gave up. With each application, she sent a personalized cover letter. “I wanted my cover letter to highlight my qualifications, creative thinking, and genuine respect for the organization,” she says.
Sarah Vania, the organization’s regional HR director, says that Emily’s letters caught her attention, especially because they included several video links that showed the results of Emily’s advocacy and fundraising work at other organizations. Emily explains, “I had prior experience advocating for former child soldiers, human trafficking survivors, vulnerable women, and displaced persons. It’s one thing to make statements in a cover letter, like ‘I can make a pitch, I am a creative person, I am thoughtful,’ but showing these qualities seemed like a better way of convincing the recruiter that the statements were true.”
This is what Emily wrote to Sarah about the video:
Here is a short video about my story with activism. The nonprofit organization Invisible Children made it for a youth conference I spoke at this year. It is about four minutes. As you’ll see from the video, I’ve had a lot of success as a student fundraiser, raising over $200,000 for Invisible Children. I’ve since gone on to work as a consultant for Wellspring International and have recently concluded my studies as a Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholar.
In each of the cover letters, Emily also made clear how much she wanted to work for IRC. “To convey enthusiasm is a vulnerable thing to do and can come off as naivete, but, when it came down to it, my enthusiasm for the organization was genuine and expressing it felt right,” she says.
This is how Emily conveyed her interest in working for IRC:
You should also know that I have a sincere appreciation of the IRC. I have enjoyed learning about your programs and have personally visited your New York headquarters, the San Diego New Roots farm, the We Can Be Heroes exhibit, and the Half the Sky exhibit in Los Angeles. The IRC is my top choice and I believe I would be a valuable addition to your fundraising team.
Emily learned throughout the process that the organization had hundreds of applicants for each position and it was extremely competitive. “I appreciated that I wouldn’t be the best for every opening but also remained firm that I did have a significant contribution to make,” she says. Eventually, Emily’s persistence paid off. She was hired as a temporary external relations coordinator, and four months later she moved into a permanent role.
- Amy Gallo is a contributing editor at Harvard Business Review, cohost of the Women at Work podcast , and the author of two books: Getting Along: How to Work with Anyone (Even Difficult People) and the HBR Guide to Dealing with Conflict . She writes and speaks about workplace dynamics. Watch her TEDx talk on conflict and follow her on LinkedIn . amyegallo
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500+ Cover Letter Examples Updated for 2023
Learn from real professional cover letter examples for 500+ different job titles. These cover letter samples will guide you through writing your own cover letter for your dream job.
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Writing a cover letter doesn’t have to be hard. It can be as easy as choosing the right greeting, telling your experience through results, and following a proven cover letter example.
We get it – writing a cover letter is a tough job! And, can you imagine doing it without a cover letter sample to draw inspiration from? Mission impossible.
Cover letters are so notoriously dreaded among job applicants, that you aren’t alone in asking yourself if recruiters actually read them . (Heads up, they do!)
Even though just about 18% of jobs require you to write a cover letter, most frequently, it’s the job positions that are in upper and C-level management that do. Furthermore, traditional sectors like banking and law require you to submit a cover letter to even be considered for the job.
That’s why we’ve prepped over 80 cover letter examples, some of which got Enhancv users hired at Spotify, HotJar, and Tesla.
Most popular
Take a look at our most popular cover letter examples. Thousands of people around the world get hired every year thanks to them.
- QA Engineer
- Data Analyst
Civil Engineer
- English Teacher
- Clinical Research Coordinator
- Data Engineer
- Data Analyst Intern
Move up the ladder in your marketing career with a cover letter that grabs the recruiting manager’s heart. Find your position below and take a closer look into how you should build your marketing cover letter with an example below
- Creative Marketing
- Social Media Manager
- Digital Marketing Intern
- Product Marketing Manager
- Marketing Director
- Social Media Specialist
Show your true medical potential with the power of a well-structured, professional cover letter. Choose from one of our custom-made examples and make a cover letter that gets you the job.
- Dental Hygienist
- Medical Receptionist
- Medical Sales
- Medical Scribe
- Physical Therapist
- Pharmacy Technician
- Radiologic Technologist
- Critical Care Nurse
- Dental Assistant
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- Registered Nurse
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- Medical Assistant
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- Travel Nurse
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- Massage Therapist
- Paraprofessional
- Physician Assistant
- Esthetician
- Phlebotomist
- Certified Medical Assistant
- Home Health Aide
- Cosmetologist
- Nurse Practitioner
- Pharmaceutical Sales Rep
- Nursing Student
- Health Coach
- Hospital Volunteer
- Charge Nurse
- Veterinary Technician
Let your academic accomplishments speak for themselves. Choose a cover letter template around education and focus on the important things by following our templates.
- University Faculty
- Math Teacher
- Resident Assistant
- School Counselor
- Teacher Assistant
- Special Education Teacher
- Research Associate
- Elementary Teacher
- Substitute Teacher
- Preschool Teacher
- High School Teacher
- Art Teacher
- Campus Director
The world goes around thanks to operations specialists. Communicate you vision for the future with potential employers and focus on how you can help the company you’re applying at grow.
- Executive Assistant
- Administrative Assistant
- Office Administrator
- Office Assistant
- Project Coordinator
- Quality Control
- Security Officer
- Director Of Operations
- Forklift Operator
- Test Engineer
- Case Manager
- School Bus Driver
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- Service Advisor
- Event Planner
- Personal Assistant
- Delivery driver
- Administrator
- Financial Accountant
- Qa Automation
- Operations Manager
- Database Analyst
- Procurement
- Event Coordinator
- Hospitality
Working in the hospitality industry requires calm, focus, and perseverance. Tell your story to employers by following our time-proven cover letter templates and get that new job.
- Restaurant Manager
- Food Service
Construction & Maintenance
Build your cover letter using one of our cover letter templates around the construction and maintenance industry. Focus on your strengths and let our cover letter builder do the job.
- Architectural Designer
- Maintenance Technician
Entertainment
Focus on your capabilities and let your character shine through one of the cover letter examples below.
- Video Producer
- Game Design
- Motion Graphics
- Film Production
- Cinematographer
- Audio Engineer
- Makeup Artist
Finance & Banking
Sum up your skills and experience and show employers your character with a professional cover letter. Just follow one of the examples below and you’ll be on your way to a new job.
- Finance Director
- Accounts Clerk
- Human Resources
Spend time communicating your HR skills and experience. Just pick a cover letter example that matches your job and follow the instructions in the article.
- Talent Acquisition Manager
- Recruiting Coordinator
- HR Business Partner
- Program Coordinator
- Hr Generalist
- Assistant Manager
- Hr Assistant
IT & Software Engineering
Show how serious you are about your future and career growth with a well-written cover letter. Pick one of the job matching examples below and just follow our guidelines.
- Full Stack Developer
- Software Engineering Intern
- Software Developer
C-Level Management
Cover letters are a great way to communicate the way you think and how you see the future. Pick a template that’s made for your position and use our cover letter builder to make yours shine.
- Vice President
- Chief Of Staff
- Managing Director
Project Management
Tell the story of how you make ideas into real-life products thanks to your project management skills. Choose an example that’s made for your job position and build your cover letter.
- Program Manager
- Communications
- IT Project Manager
- Technical Project Manager
- Scrum Master
- Project Manager
A cover letter can help you tell your story and make your resume that much better. Choose one of our science-related cover letter examples and make yours shine.
- Lab Technician
Engineering
Present your love for making concepts a reality. Click on an engineering cover letter example that’s made for your position and follow the guide. You’ll be sure to build a cover letter that makes you stand out.
- Entry Level Civil Engineer
- Chemical Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Industrial Engineer
Use a cover letter to impress hiring managers with your story. Show your understanding of human psychology by using a cover letter on top of your resume. Just pick a cover letter example and follow the guide.
- Vice President of Sales
- Sales Representative
- Sales Manager
- Head of Sales
- Entry Level Sales
- Vp Of Sales
- Regional Sales Manager
- Director Of Sales
- Sales Consultant
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- Sales And Marketing
- Sales Person
- Insurance Sales
- Sales Analyst
- Supply Chain
- Inside Sales
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- Business Development
Your expertise is everything when it comes to business development positions. Focus on your skills and tie them in with your accomplishments – just pick a cover letter example that suits your position.
- General Manager
- Business Analyst
- Business Development Manager
- Office Manager
- Business Intelligence
- Management Consultant
- Tableau Business Analyst
- Vp Business Development
- Account Director
- Digital Director
- Director Of Business Development
- Salesforce Business Analyst
- Department Head
- Strategy Consultant
Create a cover letter that gets you remembered. Pick a cover letter example from the retail industry and make a job application that gets you remembered.
- Warehouse Manager
- Inventory Manager
- Warehouse Associate
- Warehouse Worker
- Store Manager
Applying for a job in the legal industry with a cover letter is almost always a must. Pick a cover letter example that fits your needs and get to writing.
- Accounts Payable
- Audit Manager
- Legal Assistant
- Law Enforcement
Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
Show your experience in handling client-related issues with a well-written cover letter. Focus on your skills and tie in your accomplishments with what the company you’re applying to needs.
- Technical Account Manager
- Account Executive
- Customer Success Manager
- Customer Service Associate
- Call Center Representative
- Customer Service Representative
- Account Manager
- Customer Service Manager
Real Estate
Show your talent in finding, marketing, and selling homes quickly. Use one of your cover letter examples and build yours in minutes.
- Interior Designer
- Real Estate Agent
- Property Manager
- Lending Manager
- Interior Design
- Real Estate Portfolio Manager
Innovation Management
There’s no better way to communicate your experience and vision for the future than using a cover letter – choose an example and just follow the instructions.
- Business Consultant
- Network Administrator
- Change Management
- Innovation Engineer
- Innovation Specialist
- Supply Chain Manager
Product Management
Your work makes a company tick. Tell your experience in building products with a cover letter that adds to your resume.
- Product Owner
- Procurement Manager
- Production Coordinator
- Product Manager
Transportation
Focus on accomplishments and skills while you’re writing your cover letter. Tie it in with the needs of the company you’re applying for.
- Truck Driver
Your ability to work with data is valuable to most modern companies. Show them a story-driven cover letter and get the hiring manager’s attention by simply following one of the guides below.
- Data Analyst Entry Level
- Business Data Analyst
What makes a good investment? You know it, so show it in a cover letter that matches your resume. Follow our guide below and create a cover letter that stands out.
What is a cover letter and what does it contain
A cover letter is a letter of introduction that you attach to your resume when you apply for a job. Oftentimes, job ads call it a covering letter, letter of motivation, or a letter of introduction – it’s all the same thing.
Ideally, you should aim at half-page to full-page . Its purpose is to introduce you to a potential employer and tell an inspiring story of your career and why you should be their next hire. Here’s a full guide on cover letter length that we’ve prepared.
A good cover letter can be separated into five different segments : salutation, opener, body, call to action, and closer . When appropriate, you can cover any gaps in employment, your availability, and if you’re ready to relocate.
Now, let’s dig deeper into the sections that a good cover letter includes .
Name, job title, contact data - make sure all is well-formatted like in your resume.
Use attention-grabbing sentences and ditch the old “To whom it may concern”.
Tell your story, add a bit of personality, outline 3 problems of the company and how you can solve them.
Thank the interviewer for reading your cover letter and inform them of your availability and eagerness to start.
Cover letter salutation
Writing the proper cover letter salutation is about 50% of the struggle. Nothing seems appropriate. The time-proven, trusty cover letter salutations seem a bit cliché and outdated.
The secret to writing a suitable greeting is to be relevant. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I know who the hiring manager/recruiter is?
- Did someone recommend me the job?
- Have I communicated with the recruiter before?
If you can answer one out of these three questions with “yes” , then feel free to use the recruiter’s name in the salutation. And if you feel like it’s inappropriate to call the hiring manager by name, rest assured, it’s absolutely alright. It shows that you’ve done your research, and people love it when someone’s put in the effort.
Good cover letter greetings to use when you know who the hiring manager is, include:
- Dear [Last Name],
- Dear [First and Last Name],
- Dear Dr. [Last Name],
- Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms [Last Name],
With that being said, “Dear” is as professional as you get in the world of cover letter salutations. However, if you’re applying for a job position in a creative agency where competition is fierce, and you need a cover letter to stand out, but the overall vibe is far more relaxed, feel free to start your cover letter with “Hello”.
If you have no idea who’ll be reading your letter of motivation , you can use a generic greeting. They’re far less enticing, but they get the job done. Generic cover letter salutations include:
Dear Hiring Manager,
- Dear [Job Position],
Bad example
Good example, cover letter opening.
A cover letter opening paragraph has one purpose – hook the reader, so they read your letter all the way through. That’s why you should keep the first sentence fairly short and straight to the point.
Here’s an example of a good opening:
Summarize your biggest professional achievement in a single sentence. Show the impact you’ve had at your previous job. This makes it clear to the recruiter that you mean business.
Length-wise, the opening paragraph of your covering letter shouldn’t be longer than two sentences. If you’re into writing, the opening paragraph is your hook sentence. 😉
Cover letter body paragraphs
The body of the cover letter is the longest section. It consists of three to four paragraphs telling the story of your professional life.
Keep in mind that there’s a fine line between rephrasing what’s on your resume and writing a good cover letter . Remember this:
Your best bet is to thoroughly research the company you’re applying to. Check their website, social media, PR coverage, and even their Crunchbase profile to see if they’ve had recent funding rounds.
Try to identify possible problems they may be facing and direct your cover letter in the directions of how you and your skill set can help them. Speak through your actions and results.
Don’t just say you’re good at something – prove it.
Cover letter call to action
A call to action is a vital and strategic part of any cover letter. It’s important to phrase it in a way that shows your excitement for the position but isn’t too pushy on the hiring manager.
Put yourself in the reader’s shoes. They’ve read your letter this far. The recruiter knows that you’ve done the research. They can see you’re a great fit, so don’t leave them hanging – give them the next steps.
Here’s an example of a great cover letter call to action:
A rule of thumb to follow in the call to action is to make it all about the company and not yourself.
Cover letter closer
Now that you know how to craft a great call-to-action sentence, it’s time to talk about the closer.
To be exact, we’re talking about the complimentary close. As a cover letter requires a degree of formality, it’s best to keep the complementary close simple. Here’s a list of our favorites that you can use:
- Respectfully,
Followed by an empty line and your first and last name.
On another note, if you’re applying at a company where you know the hiring manager or the overall culture is informal, you can opt for a more relaxed complimentary close. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Warm regards
- Yours truly
- Have a wonderful day
Keep in mind that those should be saved for the right occasion, and we recommend going with a more professional closer . If you aren’t sure, nothing beats a “Thank you,”. 🙂
Creatives are among the most sought-after employees. They’re usually the people who come up with original ideas that give companies a competitive advantage. In the cover letter above, Jack has done a great job explaining his background in gender advocacy, social issues, and political science – all venues much needed in modern-day companies.
Furthermore, Jack has a detailed explanation of how he can help the company, focusing on solid examples and channels he considers to be his strengths. From social media to analytics, he’s done a great job of helping the hiring manager picture Jack as one of the team.
Finally, the call to action and closing paragraphs are spot on, giving the hiring manager a nudge to give him a call.
Career change cover letter example
My name is Nicholas and for the past 5 years, I’ve been the general manager for Coffi&Biscuits where I managed to increase the YoY revenue of the shop 10x in the past three years.
I was excited to see the Business Development Manager position for Bootstrap IO, as it is a career change that I’m looking forward to making.
Managing a team of 15 taught me a lot about budgeting, planning, and organizing the workload. I can help you with expanding your team in the next quarter and reach your goal of launching your new product across the United States.
I’d love to jump on a Zoom meeting with you to further discuss joining the team. I’m available at your disposal.
Nicholas Costa
Why this career change cover letter is good
Taking a closer look at Nicholas’ cover letter, you’ll see that he was concise, went straight to the point, and most importantly explained how his current skill will help the company grow.
Writing a career change cover letter is all about showing the hiring manager how your skills can help them overcome challenges the business is facing.
Nicholas has done a great job explaining his skills. Furthermore, he’s done the research and knows what the future plans of the company are.
His call to action section further drives the point that he’s convinced of his skills and that he can help the company.
You can use this cover letter when:
- You want a new job in a field unrelated to your current one.
- When you want to apply for an internal position in another department.
Entry-level cover letter example
I am applying for the position of Drug Research Specialist (Entry Level) that I came across at PANDA Corp. I believe that my academic experience matches your requirements.
During my studies, I have gained experience in the field of medicine and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, during my master’s program, I’ve completed my diploma in Pharmaceutical Research, which helped me in better understanding the processes and best practices in drug development.
Additionally, under the ImunoHelp program, I have undergone various professional and self-development training. Each training permanently added to my skill set.
Having spent the last seven years of my life outside the United States, my home country has made me multicultural. My vibrant experience traveling and studying at different institutions, in UAE, USA, Portugal, and France have undoubtedly contributed to my open-mindedness, creativity, and adaptability, as well as working in a diverse and multilingual team.
I’m excited to have the opportunity to discuss how my skills can help your company grow. I’m available for an interview at your convenience.
Anna Kendrick
Why this entry-level cover letter example is good
When you’re applying for an entry-level position, there’s a high chance that you’ll be competing with a lot of people that don’t have a lot of experience on their resume.
Most likely, you’re about to graduate, and you’re looking for your first job. Taking a look at Anna’s cover letter, you can immediately see that she’s focusing on her studies.
When you’re writing a cover letter for an entry-level position , focusing on your strengths is vital – after all, the hiring managers know that you won’t have years of experience behind your back. That’s why you have to show your strengths. Add what you’ve studied, any additional courses or training that you’ve been a part of, with a focus on what you’ve learned there.
General cover letter example
Dear Mr John,
I was pleased to see you're hiring for the barista position at Grey Raven Coffee Bar. As an experienced barista with 6 years of professional experience I’m confident that I would be a valuable asset to Grey Raven and the local community you serve.
I’m recently left my job at one of New York's biggest coffee bars, where I’ve honed my barista skills and even won a few competitions. While employed here, I have successfully managed to work in a bustling environment, serving more than 2,000 clients per day.
I’m confident that my excellent work ethic, unparalleled attention to detail, and knack for delicious coffee-based drinks will make me an immediate asset at Grey Raven, and allow me to contribute to the team’s success.
I look forward to discussing the barista position and my qualifications with you in more detail. I’m available to talk at your soonest convenience. I’ll be in touch next week to follow up, just to make sure you’ve received my application.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Cindy Parker
Why this general cover letter example is good
The general cover letter example is perfect if you’re an applicant that has some experience, or you just need a template to send out to a few jobs that you’ve applied for.
Copy the example above, change the name and accomplishments with yours and you’re ready to go. Just remember to personalize each cover letter to the job position you’re applying for.
Executive cover letter template
For the past 6 years, I've been successfully leading ACME Agency and increased YoY revenue by 150% every year for the past 4 years.
As the CEO of a creative agency, I think I have the skillset and vision needed to turn your agency into a market leader by partnering with top companies like Unilever, Google, and Apple.
I'm experienced in both company and franchise brand building. I build and lead high-performance teams that work both in online and offline campaigns.
Former employers will confirm, that I am a passionate leader who is hands-on when it comes to working smart and hard I am self-motivated and a highly dependable individual that is confident and culturally diverse.
I am a great communicator and I can convey information to anyone, regardless of where they are in the company hierarchy.
Whether monitoring performance, improving strategic plans, or managing the entire life-cycle of a project or product development, my references would confer that I exceed expectations by practicing the greatest level of expertise with professionalism whilst always being customer-centric.
Should you grant me an interview will be in a position to discuss in detail, how my skill set can be utilized to grow your business. I believe that your company is intent on reflecting positive growth and profitability and it would be my pleasure to actively contribute to the company’s future.
Kind Regards,
Nicholas Jasbin
Why this executive cover letter example is good
Nicholas goes above and beyond in describing his accomplishments and his soft skills in communication and management. He begins his cover letter directly with an accomplishment statement that will make him stand out from other applicants.
Further down, Nicholas collaborates on his experience working with large companies and building teams.
Cover Letter Examples FAQs
Should i address an employment gap in my cover letter.
If you think that addressing your employment gap is important, then definitely include a sentence about it. With that being said, employment gaps aren’t uncommon and most recruiters would love to know more about your unemployment gap as it can help them understand more about you.
Should I include information about my availability?
Of course! Cover letters are meant to help clear up any questions that your resume may not. Adding a sentence to the body segment of your motivation letter is a great way to do so.
Can I mention that I’m fine with relocating for the job?
Yes. Oftentimes, cover letters are the perfect place to mention that you’re okay with moving cities or even states if you get the job. Resumes generally only give you the opportunity to mention where you live, but not that you’re open to relocating.
Should I mention anything about the salary in the cover letter?
This is a bit of a double-edged sword. If the salary for the position is included in the job ad, and you’re okay with it, then yes, you can say that in the cover letter. Otherwise, don’t talk in the cover letter about the salary. Save it for the first or second interview instead.
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6 Steps for Writing a Cover Letter that Will Get You a Job Interview
Posted by Dale Hes | Mar 12, 2018 | Advice for Students , Career Tips and Advice , General | 0 |
When you apply for a job, your CV shouldn’t be the only aspect you pay careful attention to. A well-written cover letter allows you to better showcase your suitability for the job, and has the potential to be your saving grace when your CV isn’t as strong as it could be.
A cover letter gives you an opportunity to:
- Introduce yourself to the employer
- Outline why you are the best possible fit for the job
- Provide information that your CV can’t provide
- Elaborate on important areas of your CV
Remember that your cover letter shouldn’t mirror what you have written on your CV: it should complement, expand on, and add a personal touch to it.
FOLLOW THESE 6 STEPS TO CREATE A COVER LETTER THAT SHINES BRIGHTER THAN THE REST!
1. Start with your name and contact information.
Give a heading to your cover letter with your name in large lettering, and your contact details underneath. Include your physical address, cellphone number and email address. Keep this aligned to the centre of your page. Below this and aligned to the left of the page, you can add the date and the hiring manager’s full name. You can check who the hiring manager is by looking carefully at the job listing, the company’s website, or LinkedIn. If you can’t find the information here, then give the company a call to find out the name of the person who will most likely be viewing your CV. Doing this shows that you’ve put real effort into applying for the job. Follow this up with the hiring company’s address and phone number.
See below for an example:
2. Address the hiring manager directly
Instead of using a vague term such as “To Whom It May Concern”, make your opening salutation a little more personalised (but professional), by using the manager’s last name, preceded by “Mr” for a male, or “Ms” for a female. For example, “Dear Mr Smith” or “Dear Ms Smith”.
3. Write a clear introduction
As with any piece of writing, a clear and concise introduction is important to set the tone for the rest of your letter. Start by stating which position you are applying for, and how you came across the opportunity. You can follow this with a brief description of yourself, including your qualifications, area of expertise and career goals.
4. Turn to the job at hand
You can now move on to describing the skills, abilities and experience that will make you a perfect candidate for the job. Make sure that you constantly refer to the company and job position: you don’t want the cover letter to sound generic. Also explain why you want to work for that specific company, by referring to the company’s mission and goals (this again shows that you’ve done your research).
You should look carefully at the job description and the required skills listed in it, and match these skills to your own. Support your case by referring to examples of where you have used these skills in your current job position or other areas of life. For example, you may have learnt organisational skills by being part of a student representative committee or community organisation.
5. Finish with a strong conclusion, and a signature
Conclude your letter by saying that you would love the opportunity to be interviewed for the position, and thank the hiring manager for taking the time to read your letter. End off with a professional greeting – “Kind regards” always works! Type your full name, but leave a space before this where you can add your signature once your letter is printed. Signing the cover letter adds a professional, eye-catching touch! If you need to email your application, then simply scan the cover letter back into your computer.
6. Double check everything!
Before sending in your letter, it’s absolutely crucial to ensure that there are no spelling or grammar errors – these make a terrible impression. Read through your letter again (at least once) to make sure that you are happy with the way your sentences are structured and that you’ve included everything relevant.
It’s also a good idea to have a friend or family member look over the letter to get their impressions.
Do you need some help with setting up the perfect CV?
Download your free CV template here
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A cover letter is your chance to sell yourself in a way that your resume cannot. If you're looking for an example of the perfect cover letter, heed these tips to be successful writing one that will get your phone ringing
Perhaps the most challenging part of the job application process is writing an effective cover letter. If the online application doesn't allow you to submit a cover letter
Dear Hiring Manager, I am applying for the position of Drug Research Specialist (Entry Level) that I came across at PANDA Corp
Give a heading to your cover letter with your name in large lettering, and your contact details underneath. Make sure that you constantly refer to the company and job position: you don't want the cover letter to sound generic
Familiarize yourself with the company, and consider how your skills fit into the role you are applying for by studying the job ad. Then, begin your message with a sentence in the opening paragraph that explains
With the Zety cover letter builder, writing a cover letter is no longer the long, frustrating, confusing process you're used to. Write a job-winning cover letter in minutes and land your dream job!