QuestionsAnswered.net
What's Your Question?
How to Write a Job Application Cover Letter
Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.
Write a First Draft
Writing a first draft makes your letter concise and professional, states The Balance Careers. Organize your thoughts by making a list of what you’re trying to convey. Make sure you prioritize certain aspects like your previous job experience and why you would be a good fit for the position. Clearly state what position you’re interested in and why. Think about why you’re applying and what caught your eye about this specific position. Your cover letter will be easier to write after your thoughts are collected and organized.
Customize Your Salutation
When writing a salutation, make sure you know who you are writing to. Is this person the owner of the company or a Human Resources administrator? If you’re not sure, research the company to find out. Addressing your cover letter to a specific person shows initiative and attention to detail. After your salutation, start your letter with a short introduction of yourself. This gives future employers insight into who you are and the purpose of your cover letter.
Write Intentionally
Your cover letter should be no more than one page, so keep your points brief. Clearly state what position you are interested in and why. Explain why you are a good fit for the company because of your past job experience. If you have no similar job experience, let the employer know why you are changing career paths. Expand on your skills and give specific examples of how that skill set helped you at your last position. Name projects you’ve worked on and show results.
Close Your Letter
End your cover letter with a brief sentence and sign off. Thank the employer for their time and express your interest towards the job again. Let them know you’ll follow up with them if you do not hear back within a week and leave your contact information. Sign off with a professional farewell and leave room for a signature if sending a hard copy.
Edit and Proofread
As you finish writing your cover letter, make sure you take time to edit and proofread your document. Make sure it’s structured in a professional format with the company’s information, the salutation and introduction, the body of the letter, a brief closing sentence and farewell. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes to ensure a formal result. Make sure all names are spelled correctly, as well.
MORE FROM QUESTIONSANSWERED.NET
How to Write a Cover Letter in 2023 | Beginner's Guide
After weeks of heavy job search, 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 your application and call it a day, you remember that the job ad requires a cover letter.
Now you’re stuck wondering how to write a cover letter ...
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.
- What’s a cover letter & why it’s important for your job search
- How to write a convincing cover letter that gets you the job (step-by-step!)
- How to perfect your cover letter with the Novoresume free checklist
- What excellent cover letter examples look like
So, let’s get started with the basics!
What is a Cover Letter? (and Why It’s Important)
A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application (alongside your CV or Resume).
Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .
A good cover letter can spark the HR manager’s interest and get them to read your resume.
A bad cover letter, on the other hand, might mean that your application is going directly to the paper shredder. So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.
How does a good cover letter look, you might ask. Well, here’s an example:
Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you don’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume.
If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, writing all this might seem pretty tough. After all, you’re probably not a professional writer.
The thing is, though, you don’t need to be creative, or even any good at writing. All you have to do is follow a tried-and-tested format:
- Header - Input contact information
- Greeting the hiring manager
- Opening paragraph - Grab the reader’s attention with 2-3 of your top achievements
- Second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job
- Third paragraph - Explain why you’re a good match for the company
- Formal closing
Or, here’s what this looks like in practice:
How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter (And Get Hired!)
Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, we’re going to guide you through the process of writing a cover letter step by step.
Step #1 - Pick 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, visual template?
You can simply pick one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in a jiffy!
As a bonus, our AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter on the go.
Step #2 - Start the Cover Letter with a Header
As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with a Contact Information section:
Here, you want to include all essential information, including:
- Phone Number
- Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
- Name of the company you’re applying to
In certain cases, you might also consider adding:
- Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
- Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your blog.
And here’s what you shouldn’t mention in your header:
- Your Full Address
- Unprofessional Email - Make sure your email is presentable. It’s pretty hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected]” Whenever applying for jobs, stick to the “[first name] + [last name] @ email provider.com” format.
Step #3 - Greet the Hiring Manager
Once you’ve properly listed your contact information, you need to start writing the cover letter contents.
The first thing to do here is to address the cover letter to the hiring manager .
That’s right, the hiring manager! Not the overly popular “Dear Sir or Madam.” You want to show your future boss that you did your research and are really passionate about working with their team.
No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes to get hired in any of them.
So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager? There are several ways to do this.
The simplest option is to look up the head of the relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably Head of Communications or Chief Communications Office.
So, you do a quick lookup on LinkedIn:
And voila! You have your hiring manager.
Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of a server. In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager.”
If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.
Here are several other greetings you could use:
- Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
- Dear Hiring Manager
- To whom it may concern
- Dear [Department] Team
Step #4 - Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction
First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.
Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.
So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph .
The #1 problem we see with most cover letter opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Most of them look something like this..
- Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.
See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say pretty much anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.
Do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.
Instead, you want to start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.
So now, let’s make our previous example shine:
My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed their sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the job.
See the difference between the two examples? If you were the hiring manager, which sales manager would you hire, Jonathan or Michael?
Now that we’ve covered the introduction, let’s talk about the body of your cover letter. This part is split into two paragraphs: the first is for explaining why you’re the perfect person for the job, and the latter is for proving that you’re a good fit for the company.
So, let’s get started...
Step #5 - Explain why you’re the perfect person for the job
This is where you show off your professional skills and convince the HR manager that you’re a better fit for the job than all the other applicants.
But first things first - before you even write anything, you need to learn what the most important requirements for the role are. So, open up the job ad and identify which of the responsibilities are the most critical.
For the sake of the example, let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. You scan the job ad and see that the top requirements are:
- Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
- Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
- Excellent copywriting skills
Now, in this section, you need to discuss how you fulfill these requirements. So, here’s how that would look for our example:
In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation & management process end-to-end. Meaning, I created the ad copy , 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
Are you a student applying for your first internship? You probably don’t have a lot of work experience to show off in this section. Learn how to write an internship cover letter here.
Step #6 - Explain why you’re a good fit for the company
Once you’ve written the last paragraph, you might be thinking - I’m a shoo-in for the job! What else do I need to write? I’ll just wrap up the cover letter and hit that sweet SEND button.
Well, no. You’re not quite there yet.
The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.
After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary .
Meaning, you also need to convince the HR manager that you’re really passionate about working with them.
How do you do this? Well, as a start, you want to do some research about the company. You want to know things like:
- What’s the company’s business model?
- What’s the company product or service? Have you used it?
- What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?
So, get to Googling. Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or somewhere around the web.
Then, you need to figure out what you like about the company and turn that into text.
Let’s say, for example, you’re passionate about their product and you like the culture of innovation / independent work in the organization.
You’d 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 thrives for excellence for all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone that thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I and Company XYZ will be a great match.
What you don’t want to do here is be super generic for the sake of having something to write. Most job seekers tend to mess this one up. Let’s take a look at a very common example we tend to see (way too often):
I’d love to work for Company XYZ because of its culture of innovation. I believe that since I’m super creative, I’d be a good fit for the company. The company values of integrity and transparency really vibe with me.
See what’s wrong here? The example doesn’t really say anything about the company. “Culture of Innovation” is something most companies claim to have.
The same goes for “values of integrity and transparency” - the writer just googled what the values for the organization are, and said that they like them.
Any hiring manager that reads this will see through the fluff.
So, make sure to do a lot of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying.
Step #7 - Wrap up with a call to action
Finally, it’s time to finish up your cover letter and write the conclusion.
In the final paragraph, you want to:
- Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? Any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision? Mention it here.
- Thank the hiring manager for their time. It never hurts to be courteous, as long as you don’t come off as too needy.
- Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. You should ask the hiring manager to take some sort of action.
And now, let’s turn this into a practical example:
So to wrap it all up, thanks for looking into my application. I hope I can help Company X make the most out 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.
Step #8 - Use the right formal closing
Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.
Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions to a cover letter:
- Best Regards,
- Kind Regards,
And we’re finally done! Before sending off the cover letter, make sure to proofread it with software like Grammarly, or maybe even get a friend to review it for you.
Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?
- Professional email
- Relevant Social Media Profiles
Do you address the right person? I.e. hiring manager in the company / your future direct supervisor
Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?
- Did you mention 2-3 of your top achievements?
- Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
Do you successfully convey that you’re the right pro for the job?
- Did you identify the core requirements?
- Did you successfully convey how your experiences help 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 finalize the conclusion with a call to action?
Did you use the right formal closure for the cover letter?
5+ Cover Letter Examples
Need some inspiration? Read on to learn about some of the best cover letter examples we’ve seen (for different fields).
College Student Cover Letter Example
Middle Management Cover Letter Example
Career Change Cover Letter Example
Management Cover Letter Example
Senior Executive Cover Letter Example
Want to discover more examples AND learn what makes them stand out? Check out our guide to cover letter examples .
Next Steps in 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 is for naught.
After all, a cover letter is just an introduction. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression, but flopping at the end because of a mediocre resume.
...But don’t you worry, we’ve got you covered on that end, too.
If you want to learn more about Resumes & CVs, we have a dedicated FREE guide for that. Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume , as well as how to write a CV - our experts will teach you everything you need to know in order to land your dream job.
Or, if you’re already an expert, just pick one of our resume templates and get started.
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 convinces the hiring manager of your competence
- A cover letter goes in your job application alongside your resume
- Your introduction to the cover letter should grab the hiring manager’s attention and keep it all the way until the conclusion
- There are 2 main topics you need to include in your cover letter: why you’re the perfect candidate for the job & why you’re passionate about working in the company you’re applying to
- Most of the content of your cover letter should be factual , without any fluff or generalizations
At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve, every step of the way! Follow our blog to stay up to date with the industry-leading advice. Or, check out some of our top guides…
- How to Write a Motivational Letter
- How to Write a Resume with No Work Experience
- Most Common Interview Questions and Answers
To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.
- Hubspot Blog
- HubSpot.com
Oh no! We couldn't find anything like that.
Try another search, and we'll give it our best shot.
The 12 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right
Published: February 16, 2023
Fun is not something typically associated with writing a cover letter. However, with a few tweaks, writing one doesn’t have to be a burden.
The cover letter examples below demonstrate that it is possible to have a little fun with your job search — and maybe even make yourself a better candidate in the process.
![→ Click here to access 5 free cover letter templates [Free Download]](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/53/3f347702-d7e9-4e59-9fe4-be4cd7bad191.png "examples of cover letter 2021")
What is a good cover letter?
A cover letter is used to demonstrate your interest in the role, passion for the company, and the impact you've had in previous positions. Cover letters should include a standout opening, relevant skills and qualifications, and a strong finish with a call-to-action — all within one page and unique to each application.
It may be true that only 35% of recruiters admit that cover letters do not materially influence the hiring process for them , but that doesn't mean yours has to contribute to that statistic. In fact, it might be that cover letters are deemed insignificant because so few of them stand out. Here's an opportunity for you to exercise your creativity at the earliest stage of the recruitment process.
Personalization, after all, goes beyond replacing the title and company name in each letter you send to recruiters.
What’s on a cover letter?
Before you can get started writing your cover letter, there are a few components you must have.
Greeting: A simple, but pleasant greeting to address the recruiter or hiring manager.
Opener: Write a catchy introduction that explains why you’re interested in the role.
Summary of Skills/Qualifications: This is the heart of your cover letter. It outlines your relevant experience and why you’d be a great fit for the role. You can highlight special skills, experiences, professional achievements, or education to help make your case.
Closing: In this paragraph, provide a call-to-action by expressing interest in an interview. Provide your contact information and sign-off.
What does a cover letter look like?
In addition to showing off your skills and qualifications, cover letters give you the opportunity to present a clear, concise, and compelling writing sample that shows off your personality and ability to convey ideas. Check out our fillable examples below to see how you should organize the content of your cover letter.
Customizable Cover Letter Examples
In a hurry for a cover letter example you can download and customize? Check out the ones below from HubSpot’s cover letter template kit .
1. Standard Cover Letter Example
This standard cover letter hits all the right notes: It includes a space to give a brief summary of your experience, as well as a space to delve in-depth into the specific responsibilities at your current role. You also have the chance to describe the challenges you’ve mastered at previous roles, showing that you’re capable of facing any problem that comes your way.
Why We Love It
We love this cover letter because it allows you to describe the high points of your career while still being professional, personalized, and succinct.
2. Data-Driven Cover Letter Sample
Numbers are worth a million words — or that’s how the saying should probably go (if only we could include pictures in cover letters). Citing data and statistics about your achievements at your current company is an assured way to capture a hiring manager’s attention. Most hiring managers don’t read the entire letter, so a bulleted summary of your achievements can be a powerful way to increase the effectiveness and scannability of your message.
We love this cover letter because it’s adaptable to any role. Even if you don’t work in a data-centric role, you can include any enumerable achievement. If you’re in a creative industry, for instance, you can include the number of creative assets you designed for your current company.
3. Entry-Level Cover Letter Example
Download a Customizable Copy of This Cover Letter Example
Applying to your first job can be stress-inducing, to say the least. You can increase your chances of getting that first interview by including a cover letter that explains how your education can help you succeed in the role you applied for.
Look no further than this example from HubSpot. While other cover letter samples give experienced professionals the opportunity to share their experience at length, this one gives you the chance to describe your personal and professional attributes. You can then convey how you can leverage your knowledge to help your target company reach their goals.
We love this cover letter because it’s easy and simple to use for a student who has little experience in their target industry — including those who haven’t yet completed an internship.
Looking for more? Download the entire kit below.
5 Professional Cover Letter Templates
Fill out the form to access your templates., best cover letter examples.
What does a good cover letter look like in practice, and how can you make yours stand out? We found six examples from job seekers who decided to do things a bit differently.
Note: Some of these cover letters contain real company names and NSFW language that we've covered up.
1. The Cover Letter That Explains 'Why,' Not Just 'How'
We’ve already covered the importance of addressing how you’ll best execute a certain role in your cover letter. But there’s another question you might want to answer: Why the heck do you want to work here?
The Muse , a career guidance site, says that it’s often best to lead with the why — especially if it makes a good story. We advise against blathering on and on, but a brief tale that illuminates your desire to work for that particular employer can really make you stand out.
Image Source
Here’s another instance of the power of personalization. The author of this cover letter clearly has a passion for this prospective employer — the Chicago Cubs — and if she’s lying about it, well, that probably would eventually be revealed in an interview.
Make sure your story is nonfiction and relatable according to each job. While we love a good tale of childhood baseball games, an introduction like this one probably wouldn’t be fitting in a cover letter for, say, a software company. But a story of how the hours you spent playing with DOS games as a kid led to your passion for coding? Sure, we’d find that fitting.
If you’re really passionate about a particular job opening, think about where that deep interest is rooted. Then, tell your hiring manager about it in a few sentences.
Why This Is A Great Cover Letter
This example demonstrates how effective personalization can be. The writer is passionate about the employer, drawing from her own childhood experience to communicate her enthusiasm.
2. The 'We're Meant for Each Other' Cover Letter
This cover letter example is a special one because it was submitted to us here at HubSpot. What does the letter do well? It makes a connection with us before we've even met the letter's author.
.png "examples of cover letter 2021")
"Content Marketing Certified" indicates the applicant has taken the content marketing certification course in our HubSpot Academy (you can take the same course here ). Our "records" indicate he/she did indeed give an interview with us before — and was a HubSpot customer.
The cover letter sang references to a relationship we didn't even know we had with the candidate.
The letter ends with a charming pitch for why, despite him/her not getting hired previously, our interests complement each other this time around.
(Yes, the applicant was hired).
This cover letter example does an excellent job of building rapport with the employer. Despite not getting hired for previous roles they applied for at HubSpot, the writer conveys exactly why they are right for this role.
3. The Cover Letter with H.E.A.R.T.
HubSpot has a lot of H.E.A.R.T. — Humble, Empathetic, Adaptable, Remarkable, Transparent. Our Culture Code is the foundation of the company's culture, the driving force behind our mission to help millions grow better , and serves as the scaffolding for our hiring practices. Recruiters at HubSpot look for applicants that demonstrate how they embody the Culture Code and job description, paying extra attention to cover letters that are super custom to HubSpot.
In another HubSpot submission, a HubSpot applicant writes about how she found out about HubSpot, why she likes the company, and how her professional experience aligns with H.E.A.R.T.
HubSpot's recruiting team was impressed with her dedication to the company and how she went beyond what was asked for by linking her portfolio in her closing paragraph.
Featured Resource: 5 Free Cover Letter Templates
Download our collection of 5 professional cover letter templates to help you summarize your professional journey and land your dream job – whether it's at your first or fifth company.
Short Cover Letter Examples
4. the short-and-sweet cover letter.
In 2009, David Silverman penned an article for Harvard Business Review titled, “ The Best Cover Letter I Ever Received. ” That letter contained three complete sentences, as follows:
One might argue that this particular letter is less than outstanding. It’s brief, to say the least, and the author doesn’t go into a ton of detail about what makes him or her qualified for the job in question. But that’s what Silverman likes about it — the fact that the applicant only included the pieces of information that would matter the most to the recipient.
“The writer of this letter took the time to think through what would be relevant to me,” writes Silverman. “Instead of scattering lots of facts in hopes that one was relevant, the candidate offered up an opinion as to which experiences I should focus on.”
When you apply for a job, start by determining two things:
- Who might oversee the role — that’s often included in the description, under “reports to.” Address your letter to that individual.
- Figure out what problems this role is meant to solve for that person. Then, concisely phrase in your cover letter how and why your experience can and will resolve those problems.
The key to this standout cover letter is research — by looking into who you’ll be reporting to and learning more about that person’s leadership style, you’ll be better prepared to tailor your cover letter to focus on how you provide solutions for them.
5. The Short Story
Basha Coleman began her cover letter with a short story. The goal of this short story is two-fold:
- Detail the experience she already has with the organization.
- Stand out to the hiring team.
You'll notice that her short story follows a typical narrative arc: It has a conflict/obstacle, a turning point, and a positive outcome, all created with a goal to emphasize a theme or point. In this case, Coleman is emphasizing her existing affinity with the brand and her triumphs within the program so that she can continue on her career path.
Like the second example in our list, this cover letter does an excellent job of conveying the applicant’s existing affinity for the brand. If you are applying to a company you love, don’t be shy about showing it and explaining why.
6. The Bare Bones Cover Letter
In today's job market, cover letters aren't always necessary. Even though many recruiters won't ask for or even read them, cover letters can still be effective and convey personality to a reader. Writing a strong cover letter can help you better convey your interest in the position and company.
This template from The Balance Careers puts together the essential components of a short cover letter: excitement about the position, your qualifications, and a call-to-action for the recruiter to follow up with you. Combining these central aspects in a well-written, compelling narrative will go a long way in convincing readers to hire you.
This letter is organized and concise. The inclusion of bullet points to highlight key skills and help the recruiter skim the document is a nice touch.
7. The Breezy Follow-Up
In this cover letter, Amanda Edens is following the instructions the hiring manager gave by forwarding an email with resume and writing samples attached.
Not only does Amanda provide links to relevant writing samples that are live on the web, but she also closes with a strong final paragraph that:
- Summarizes the expertise she has relevant to the posting
- Emphasizes that she doesn't want to simply get a job but rather help the organization accomplish their goals
- The reader gets everything they need in an organized and thoughtful manner.
8. The Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
In this cover letter the candidate, Brenda, plays up her prior music industry experience to build a connection with Epic Music Group. If you have specific industry experience for the role you are applying for, be sure to highlight that.
It’s clear that she’s passionate about not only the music industry, but Epic as a whole. She’s done so much research on the company that she knows what software programs they use, and happens to be proficient in it to help convey value to the hiring manager.
This example further illustrates the importance of research. Make sure you understand the culture of the company to which you’re applying before you send a completely unfiltered cover letter — if you don’t, there’s a good chance it’ll completely miss the mark.
In just three short paragraphs, the applicant uses their company research to drive home why they are the perfect fit for the role — emphasizing industry experience as well as software knowledge specific to the company. All of this communicates that she’d be able to start with very few hiccups getting up to speed.
9. The Internship Cover Letter
Maybe you’re just getting started in your career and looking to land the right internship to gain experience in your field. In this case, you’ll need to highlight more of your educational background and transferable skills since you won’t have as much professional experience to highlight.
The cover letter above is a great example of how to emphasize your skills and accomplishments when applying to internships or entry-level positions. A few things the applicant does well:
- Highlights relevant extracurriculars and affinity networks. In this case, the applicant is applying to a business analyst position, so mentioning their involvement in a FinTech group makes sense.
- Previous internships in relevant fields: Our applicant points out that they’ve previously interned as a Business Analyst at another firm. Pointing out that they’ve done the role previously will help make their case for fit.
- Highlight other useful skills: This applicant is fluent in both English and German. If an international company or an organization needs bi-lingual support, knowing multiple languages is an asset.
This cover letter example illustrates how you can leverage your education and background to get the gig even when you don’t have much working experience. Highlighting previous internships or experience in related fields can go a long way in convincing hiring managers you’re the perfect candidate for the role.
Creative Cover Letter Examples
10. the brutally honest cover letter.
Then, there are the occasions when your future boss might appreciate honesty — in its purest form. Livestream CEO Jesse Hertzberg, by his own admission, is one of those people, which might be why he called this example “ the best cover letter ” (which he received while he was with Squarespace):
As Hertzberg says in the blog post elaborating on this excerpt — it’s not appropriate for every job or company. But if you happen to be sure that the corporate culture of this prospective employer gets a kick out of a complete lack of filter, then there’s a chance that the hiring manager might appreciate your candor.
“Remember that I'm reading these all day long,” Hertzberg writes. “You need to quickly convince me I should keep reading. You need to stand out.”
The applicant did their research on the company’s culture and executed this cover letter flawlessly. It’s funny and shows off the applicant’s personality all while demonstrating why they are a good fit for the role.
11. The Pivot Cover Letter
Making a career switch? Your cover letter can be an excellent opportunity for you to explain the reasoning behind your career change and how your transferable skills qualify you for the role.
Since the role she is applying for is more visual, it’s important to both show and tell why you’re a good fit.
This cover letter strikes the perfect balance between creativity and simplicity in design while putting the applicant's career change into context. The copy is clean, with a creative font choice that isn’t distracting from the content, but still demonstrates the applicant’s knack for design.
12. The Graphic Design Cover Letter
When applying for more creative roles, the design of your cover letter can say just as much as the words on the page. Take the graphic designer letter example below.
It’s got so much going for it:
- Pop of color
- Clean layout
- Interesting fonts
In addition to the style elements, this example also doesn’t skimp on the key skills recruiters are looking for. Using metrics, the applicant demonstrates their value and why they would be a great fit.
This cover letter thoroughly conveys the applicant’s skills and qualifications using a variety of visual elements and by emphasizing their greatest achievements.
We’d like to add another stage to the job search: experimentation.
In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search. But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data we’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.
We certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will. That’s why it’s important not to copy these examples . That defeats the purpose of personalization.
Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.
Don't forget to share this post!
Related articles.
15 Cover Letter Templates to Perfect Your Next Job Application
The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Cover Letter
![How to Start a Cover Letter to Impress Employers [+ 14 Examples]](https://blog.hubspot.com/hubfs/how-to-start-a-cover-letter.jpg "examples of cover letter 2021")
How to Start a Cover Letter to Impress Employers [+ 14 Examples]
![How to Write a Letter of Interest in 2021 [Examples + Template]](https://blog.hubspot.com/hubfs/man%20in%20HR%20reading%20letter%20of%20interest.jpg "examples of cover letter 2021")
How to Write a Letter of Interest in 2021 [Examples + Template]
![How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship [Examples & Template]](https://blog.hubspot.com/hubfs/coverletter.jpg "examples of cover letter 2021")
How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship [Examples & Template]
Eight Cover Letter Greetings for Every Situation
7 Expert Cover Letter Tips to Get the Job
Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.
9 Skillful Cover Letter Examples for 2023 & Why They Work
Before you continue to scroll down to find your job position, read this first.
We’ve briefly broken down each of our professional cover letter samples listed to help you:
- Get new ideas for structuring your cover letter
- Get inspiration for phrasing certain sentences to emphasize your strengths
- Get more confidence sending your cover letter to your hiring manager
So even if a template isn’t in the same field of profession you’re in, you still might learn a thing or two.
But if you don’t find the exact sample you’re looking for, just know there’s a strong chance we’ll have included one that’s similar and relevant.
Without further ado, let’s get started.
What Do You Write About In a Cover Letter?
Your strengths.
Then again, don’t just focus on talking about yourself. Link it back to why you’re the ideal candidate to hire. This is what a cover letter is about.
Besides that, here are some other things to keep in mind:
- Academic background
- Goals and objectives
- Professional achievements
- Hobbies and interests
Don’t overcomplicate it. Less is more, so keep it succinct.
If you’re more interested to learn how to write a cover letter step-by-step, it’s worth reading our separate cover letter writing guide here.
Create a Tailored Cover Letter Automatically In Less Than 5 Minutes
Step 1: Enter the company name.
Step 2: Enter the job position/title.
Step 3: Select a position to highlight from your work history.
Step 4: Type your top skills.
Step 5: Press “AI Writer Ready”.
Don’t believe us? The clip below is your evidence.
That’s all there is to it. More than 50% of Rezi’s users have secured an interview by using our process.
No more Googling, page hopping, and further research…
We’ve removed the hard work for you so you can focus solely on the interview.
Explore Rezi 🔥 Comes with 5,000 AI Credits, and is free forever, no credit card required.
Accounting and Finance Cover Letter Examples
All cover letters should show a degree of enthusiasm. More specifically, the reasons why you’re motivated and passionate about the job you're applying for. It’s no different for accountants and professionals working in the finance industry.
We’ll review the following:
- Accountant cover letter
- Banking cover letter
- Certified public accountant cover letter
- Finance cover letter
- Investment banker cover letter
Accountant Cover Letter
The applicant starts by introducing the position they’re applying for and how they came across the opportunity. It’s then followed up by a simple sentence stating why they’re a suitable candidate to hire.
Similarly, you’ll want to focus on your strengths that show the employers how you would be a good fit for the role.
Banking Cover Letter
This is a great example of using your network and connections to your advantage. When you name drop appropriately after meeting people at an event, it’s effective in getting the hiring manager’s attention.
Compared to a resume, there’s room to be more personal on a cover letter. Don’t shy away from showing employers your personality and interests.
Certified Public Accountant Cover Letter
The main objective of a cover letter is to showcase why you’re the best fit.
In other words, stick to your strengths and align them with the company values. With the example above, the user focuses on their employment history, i.e. the duties and responsibilities.
Finance Cover Letter
If there are key points on your CV, feel free to expand on them in your cover letter. Talk about what happened behind the scenes, e.g. describing your process and workflow.
Investment Banker Cover Letter
Like the last example, write about the impact you've had in previous job positions.
There’s no issue with expressing your thoughts as long as you’re keeping it professional. Also, don’t forget to support your points with examples and data.
Business Cover Letter Examples
Business cover letters aren’t too different from what we’ve seen so far. The purpose of your cover letter is to personalize your application. It clarifies why you’re the best person to hire.
This section will include:
- Business analyst cover letter
- Business development cover letter
- Consultant cover letter
- Human resources cover letter
Business Analyst Cover Letter
The length of this sample isn’t as long compared to others but it’s more than enough.
Don’t focus on the length of your cover letter. A concise application is better than one that’s irrelevant and full of fluff.
Business Development Cover Letter
Start strong like this candidate has by sharing your own experiences and interests related to the company you’re applying to. Make a firm statement about your skills or what you’re looking to accomplish by being a part of the team.
Consultant Cover Letter
You’re not restricted to only writing in paragraphs.
Bullet points are useful for making a list. It’s readable and easier to skim through.
Another good point about this template is that it’s optimized for the job description as keywords have been included appropriately, e.g. management consulting.
Human Resources Cover Letter
With this cover letter example, the opening paragraph doesn’t mention where they heard about the job vacancy. It goes straight into introducing their background and their purpose for the application.
Think about how you can personalize your application based on your strengths. This can vary depending on where you’re at in your career.
Marketing Cover Letter Examples
In this sector, some jobs are in a higher position than others. Therefore, the approach can be slightly different.
We’ll assess the following:
- Digital marketing cover letter
- Content writer cover letter
- Marketing manager cover letter
- Director of marketing cover letter
- Social media manager cover letter
Digital Marketing Cover Letter
It’s important to demonstrate your past responsibilities and achievements. Although the second paragraph in this example is more detailed compared to a typical cover letter, the candidate does a good job in highlighting their skills and experience.
Content Writer Cover Letter
This example resembles the standard format of a cover letter .
In a similar fashion, write down why you’re interested in applying for the job vacancy in the first place. Is there a specific aspect of the job you’re passionate about? How did that passion develop over time?
Marketing Manager Cover Letter
Several keywords related to the vacancy have been used in the sample above such as:
- Email marketing
- Social media promotion
- Online advertising
- Customer service
Use keywords naturally without forcing them. Edit your cover letter accordingly to see where they can be placed or expand on a new point.
However, keep in mind the length shouldn’t exceed one page.
Director of Marketing Cover Letter
For a higher position like a director of marketing, highlight your relevant:
- Responsibilities
- Workplace achievements
In this example, they’ve focused on key tasks from their professional experiences. These will show the employers that they’re more than capable of carrying out the job to a high standard.
Social Media Manager Cover Letter
Show your enthusiasm. Give the hiring manager a taste of what you’re capable of by mentioning the results you’ve accomplished. If you have no work experience , there’s an alternative way to do this.
Design Cover Letter Examples
Designers should have a portfolio ready to showcase to their employer along with a resume and cover letter.
The samples we’ll be looking at are the following:
- Interior designer cover letter
- User experience designer cover letter
- Senior UX Manager cover letter
- Web designer cover letter
- Graphic designer cover letter
Interior Designer Cover Letter
This sample begins by providing a brief summary of the applicant’s background.
Notably, use bullet points to highlight the things that are impressive. For instance, the results of your work.
User Experience Designer Cover Letter
Notice the format. Rather than having a small opening paragraph and then a bulky paragraph right after, they’ve kept it consistent. Use your professional judgment to decide how you could differentiate from other applicants.
However, make sure to maintain a professional manner.
Senior UX Manager Cover Letter
Highlight the strengths and traits that make you uniquely qualified.
Here, they’ve stated they’re a natural leader with the ability to empathize with users. When making statements like this, back up your claims by describing your experience in previous jobs.
Web Designer Cover Letter
This is another good example of the standard cover letter format. The opening paragraph states why they are making an application and it provides a brief background about themselves. As we get into the main body, they’ve described their internship experience.
Before the signoff, they’ve written a personal note to express confidence and personality.
Graphic Designer Cover Letter
You can add as much detail as you want but don’t go over one page on your cover letter.
What’s good about this example is that it’s broken down into smaller paragraphs which makes the text more readable.
Teacher Cover Letter Examples
As a teacher, you're tasked to bring a positive impact on students and prepare them for the future. An effective learning environment and framework are essential.
The cover letter templates in this section include:
- Primary school teacher cover letter
- Special education teacher cover letter
- Teacher cover letter
- Teacher assistant cover letter
Primary School Teacher Cover Letter
Keep in mind that cover letters aren’t as formal as resumes. So, you’re open to showing off your personality. In the sample above, the candidate does this by implying their passion and excitement about working in this profession.
Special Education Teacher Cover Letter
Whether you’re listing out accomplishments from a previous project you worked on or your career highlights, bullet points are effective. They’re better than using big paragraphs as they can make certain points stand out. In this case, it’s the candidate’s accomplishments.
Teacher Cover Letter
Another factor to the hiring manager’s decision is if you’re a good cultural match.
With cover letters in the education industry, don’t just outline your strengths. Align your application with the company values and work environment. To do this, check the job description and website carefully to see what’s being emphasized.
Teacher Assistant Cover Letter
This candidate effectively showcases their hobbies and personal interests.
Hiring managers will notice that they have a passion for music and enjoy sharing their love for it. If you have a relevant interest in the job you’re applying for where skills intersect, don’t be afraid to mention it. It may give you an advantage since it makes you appear more competent for the role.
Nursing and Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
Before being allowed to work as a nurse or healthcare professional, employers need to know that you’re qualified. With a cover letter, you can go in-depth on your qualifications, certifications, and work experience.
The examples we’ve included are:
- Nursing cover letter
- New graduate nurse cover letter
- Medical assistant cover letter
- Medical scribe cover letter
- Registered nurse cover letter
Nursing Cover Letter
The candidate has kept the application concise. Three paragraphs are the minimum, and it’s more than enough to include everything you need. As long as you:
- Provide an introduction;
- Dedicate a paragraph that directly reveals why you’re a good fit;
- Conclude it appropriately
Then, that’s all that’s necessary.
New Graduate Nurse Cover Letter
Using bullet points to list your achievements is powerful.
The first point this candidate mentioned is their academic qualification and grade. This can give employers confidence not just because you’re certified. But because there’s a clear level of commitment displayed.
Medical Assistant Cover Letter
The candidate emphasizes their knowledge. They’ve also emphasized their communication and interpersonal skills.
What’s more, they’ve provided specific examples from their previous experiences.
Medical Scribe Cover Letter
Before getting started writing, you should have an idea of some of your best skills or achievements.
With that in mind, briefly go into detail about your professional background. Look at the things that are relevant which help to distinguish your capabilities, e.g. the writer states they can type over 80 words per minute.
Registered Nurse Cover Letter
Instead of going into detail in the introduction paragraph, they’ve saved it for the main body of the application. The structure flows nicely as the writer consistently links back to how they can add value.
Tech Cover Letter Examples
You may have heard that cover letters aren’t necessary. Even so, that doesn’t mean it’s not a valuable asset to send to your employers. These job documents are used to personalize your application and showcase your background in more detail explaining why you’re the best fit.
We’ll go over the following:
- Administrative assistant cover letter
- IT cover letter
- Pharmacy tech cover letter
- System administrator cover letter
Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
From the second paragraph, the recruiter will notice the candidate is experienced working in an administrative role.
You’ll also notice that they can work as a team and in an office environment based on the responsibilities listed. It’s a straightforward approach to outlining what they’re capable of. Yet, it’ll show recruiters the effort you’re putting in.
IT Cover Letter
The candidate expresses their interests by talking about where their enthusiasm comes from.
When everyone is bound to have similar qualifications, a good strategy to stand out is to focus on your motivations, intentions, and personality traits.
Pharmacy Tech Cover Letter
If you don’t know the recruiter’s name, use their job position instead. Never address them by saying “to whom it may concern” because it indicates a lack of effort and interest.
System Administrator Cover Letter
Several action verbs have been used contextually, which demonstrates a strong level of understanding. This creates a good first impression in terms of their level of expertise.
Entry Level Cover Letter Examples
Each of these templates is applicable for graduates, students, and those with not much work experience. These are ideal if you’re applying for an entry level position.
Here’s what we’ll be reviewing:
- Entry level nurse cover letter
- Entry level system analyst cover letter
- Recent graduate cover letter
- Wait staff (entry level) cover letter
Entry Level Nurse Cover Letter
Qualifications are essential for this role. So the candidate makes this clear in the first few sentences. They’ve also mentioned how they were praised by peers and colleagues in previous employment.
Entry Level System Analyst Cover Letter
They first mention how they came across the company, followed by a sentence stating their interest.
Next, they explain how and where those interests developed. Unlike some of the other samples, this one revolves around their passion for the profession. However, they don’t just focus on themselves. They link it back to the company’s needs.
Recent Graduate Cover Letter
The graduate behind this template takes on a personalized approach.
They showcase how their personal interests match. Plus, they use examples to elaborate and consolidate each point they've made.
They’ve also suggested the next steps, i.e. an interview. In the closing paragraph, the applicant states that they would love to discuss how their objectives align. This plants the idea of how they’d be a good fit for the long-term.
Wait Staff (Entry Level) Cover Letter
Make it a priority to use relevant terminology where it’s appropriate. Doing this shows industry knowledge. From the sample above, they’ve mentioned words such as customer-service-driven and quality control.
Student Cover Letter Examples
A cover letter is an especially useful document for students to make up for having little to no corporate experience.
We’ll go through the following templates:
- College student cover letter
- High school student cover letter
- Biomedical engineering intern cover letter
- Internship cover letter
College Student Cover Letter
As a student, some of your main highlights might include:
- Certifications
- Relevant projects
- Extracurricular activities
Take the time to personalize your application.
Why are you motivated to take on the job you’re applying for? What makes you uniquely qualified?
Whatever your answer is, give examples by referring back to your previous experiences.
High School Student Cover Letter
Whether you’re graduating high school, university, or college, there’s no problem with letting your employers know.
Instead of focusing on the past like most job seekers, i.e. workplace achievements and work experience, focus on the future. That means your goals and objectives. What are they? How do they align with what the company is looking for?
You’ll still need to demonstrate your value though. In this instance, they’ve talked about coursework and extracurricular activities along with their biggest accomplishments.
Biomedical Engineering Intern Cover Letter
One alternative to your professional background is your academic background. Here, they’ve written about how they developed their skills through education. This was brought up first before even getting to their internship work experience.
Internship Cover Letter
When writing an internship cover letter , there’s a chance you don’t have the ideal corporate experience. So, it makes sense to focus on your other strengths. Here, they’ve listed relevant coursework and talked about their accomplishments from a previous campaign.
Senior Cover Letter Examples
This is for the veterans in the workforce. Feel free to use any of the sample templates below and check out the brief analysis underneath for tips on writing your cover letter .
Here’s what we’ll go through:
- Senior business analyst cover letter
- Senior data analyst cover letter
- Senior project manager cover letter
- Senior recruiter cover letter
Senior Business Analyst Cover Letter
Set the agenda for what you’ll be focusing on. In this scenario, it’s their experience and skills.
They first state how they came across the job vacancy and why they would be a great match for their requirements. Next, they introduce their professional background on top of their strengths, which are all key skills for the job.
From there, the applicant talks about responsibilities they’ve carried out in a previous role. This sets up their next paragraph where they align their value with the company’s goals.
Senior Data Analyst Cover Letter
Unlike how the previous example broke down the opening paragraph, here they’ve kept it in one. However, rather than outlining specific skills, they’ve outlined job responsibilities and the results they achieved.
Whenever you excel at your job, use numbers and statistics to prove your point. It makes you look more credible in addition to being a strong performer.
Also, use keywords. It makes it clear you did your research. The closing paragraph of this template is a good example.
Senior Project Manager Cover Letter
Show your confidence through your word choices. Notice the difference between these two sentences:
- I’ve developed a strong interest in providing customer service…
- I’ve developed a strong interest in providing incredible customer service…
Adding the right word can make a difference. Use an appropriate adjective to describe what you have to offer. But telling it isn’t enough. You also need to show it, which is what this candidate does by presenting relevant job duties and workplace accomplishments.
Before signing off, they write how their passion corresponds to the company’s approach.
Senior Recruiter Cover Letter
This applicant gets the reader’s interest by immediately stating their years of experience.
That said, they don’t only talk about previous experiences. They let the results of their work do the talking for them. If you have a few results you could list, use bullet points to make them stand out.
Engineering Cover Letter Examples
Engineers usually have a good amount of certifications and qualifications that add to their credentials.
In this section, we’ve included the following:
- Civil engineer cover letter
- Electrical engineer cover letter
- Hardware engineer cover letter
- Industrial engineer cover letter
- Mechanical engineer cover letter
- Software engineer cover letter
Civil Engineer Cover Letter
Not all opening paragraphs need to be long. It can even be as simple as this.
Rather than making things hard, it’s better to be short and concise. Throughout this cover letter, they’ve made it clear that they’re capable by describing their achievements and corporate experience.
Electrical Engineer Cover Letter
Every cover letter should be situated towards your strengths. You can tell from this applicant that it’s his years of experience specifically in the field of electrical engineering.
Hardware Engineer Cover Letter
The main highlight behind this cover letter is the candidate’s experience with a variety of responsibilities. Going more in-depth from your resume reinforces your skills as an engineer.
Industrial Engineer Cover Letter
One option is to break down the paragraphs from the main body of your cover letter to make it more readable. From the template above, the candidate has broken it down into two paragraphs.
Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter
Let employers know you’re confident in taking on the job. For example, have you developed an essential skill that proves you’d be valuable to the company? If so, talk about it and mention how it’s going to be beneficial.
Software Engineer Cover Letter
Unlike most samples on the list, the second last paragraph is the most content-heavy. The reason it’s written in a big paragraph is that it’s focused on one employment experience.
Throughout this, the candidate talks about things such as:
- The impact they’ve made
- Job responsibilities
- Collaborations with other companies
- Accomplishments e.g. surpassed 24 million users
Notably, they’ve included numbers and reputable companies as they describe their duties. Being specific about each detail helps to position you as the expert.
Sales Cover Letter Examples
The last batch on this list relates to the sales industry.
As interpersonal skills are important in a sales position, cover letters are a good way to demonstrate your creative ability and written communication skills. Technically speaking, you’re trying to sell your value to your employers by displaying what makes you a skilled professional.
In this last batch, we’ll go over:
- Bartender cover letter
- Customer service representative cover letter
- Customer support cover letter
- Retail sales associate cover letter
- Sales cover letter
Bartender Cover Letter
Mentioning key hard or soft skills that you’ve developed paints a good impression about your capability. If you have experience working in similar environments (e.g. restaurants), let them know.
Customer Service Representative Cover Letter
Tie back your passions to the company values. On top of personalizing your cover letter, the hiring manager will see you’ve taken the time to do your research.
Customer Support Cover Letter
Keywords have been used contextually as they’ve linked it back to their experience and previous responsibilities. From this, the recruiter can acknowledge that they’re informed about what it takes to provide a good customer experience.
Retail Sales Associate Cover Letter
What have you learned the most over your years of experience?
Whatever your answer is, prove it using data and results. This makes you appear as a strong performer as well as someone that’s reliable to work with.
Sales Cover Letter
In a sales role especially, employees should be curious and self-motivated.
Communication isn’t the only important skill. Soft skills in general are important, which is what the applicant has highlighted through words such as:
- Resilient self-starter
- Computer savvy
- Fast learner
More Cover Letter Templates At Your Disposal
There are ways around writer’s block. One is to use the AI writer feature to have your application created automatically for you based on the company’s requirements. Two is to start by taking inspiration from other examples.
If your job position didn’t make it to our list, no worries. We have hundreds more cover letter templates ready-to-use here at your disposal .
A Good Cover Letter Improves Your Chances of Getting Hired
If your resume isn’t well written, a good cover letter examples could make up for it. In fact, 83% of HR decision-makers reported in a survey that they’re an important factor when making a hiring decision.
It’s worth putting the effort into writing a cover letter because it’s going to be a useful and relevant document for recruiters.
Are you someone who’s going to be committed?
Do you have the strongest work ethic and competence compared to other applicants?
Can you meet the job criteria?
These are the types of questions they’ll be thinking about throughout the process. It’s up to you to communicate in your application whether or not you meet those expectations.
Aside from your skills, hiring managers also want to know if you’re someone who matches their company culture. And that’s where cover letters are helpful. Unlike a resume, you have the opportunity to explain why they should invest in you.
Resumes, cover letters, and letters of interest alike… They’re all similar in terms of time and effort.
We understand it isn’t always as simple as it seems to create a tailored application.
So we built a range of tools and resources to help job seekers land the golden job opportunities they come across in their careers.
Here are some other guides we recommend:
- The purpose of sending a cover letter
- 2 scenarios of when cover letters aren’t necessary
- How to get past any company’s job application scanners
Keep reading with...
How to Position Yourself as the Best Candidate for the Job
CV vs Resume: Is It Important To Know The Differences?
How to Use the AI Cover Letter Generator
What Should a Cover Letter Include? 5 Key Elements and What to Write About
- Skip to main content
- Skip to footer
Resume Genius
The World's Smartest Resume Builder
Home Cover Letter Examples
Cover Letter Examples for All Job Applications in 2023
Paired with your resume, a well-written cover letter will help you land the job you want. We have nearly 200 cover letter examples by type and industry to help you make your cover letter persuasive.
The best way to start writing a cover letter for a job in 2023 is to check out examples of good cover letters.
Our extensive list of cover letter samples is perfect for all job seekers, whether you need to write one for a specific life situation (like a career change) or you’re looking for the best cover letter format to use in your industry.
Table of Contents
- What Should a Cover Letter Say?
- Example 1: Entry-Level Cover Letter
- Example 2: Professional Cover Letter
- Example 3: General Cover Letter
- Example 4: Creative Cover Letter
- Example 5: Career Change Cover Letter
- Example 6: Internal Promotion Cover Letter
- Cover Letter Examples by Type
Cover Letter Examples by Industry
What should a great cover letter say.
Not sure what a cover letter is or what it should include? A killer cover letter is made of the following four parts:
- Salutation: A professional greeting that addresses the hiring manager by name
- Introduction: An attention-grabbing opening paragraph that introduces yourself and your intention to apply for the open role
- Body paragraph(s): One or two paragraphs describing your relevant professional experience, achievements, skills, and education
- Closing paragraph : A final paragraph that contains a call to action (CTA), asking the hiring manager to invite you in for an interview
The cover letter template below describes how to write each of these key sections:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Opening Paragraph (Introduction)
Your cover letter opening should contain a self introduction. Write about who you are, where your expertise lies, where you found the job posting, and why you want to apply for the job.
Body Paragraphs
The second paragraph of your cover letter should respond directly to the job description written by the hiring manager. Describe how your previous job experiences, skills, and abilities will help you meet the company’s needs. To make that easier, you should include exact words and phrases from the job descriptions in your cover letter.
- You can include a bulleted list of your accomplishments
- Make sure to use numbers or percentages to emphasize your bullet points (e.g. Increased online revenue by 13%)
Do some research about the company and find out what their current activities and goals are. Explain how you can help them achieve those goals.
Closing Paragraph
Your cover letter closing is the call-to-action portion of your cover letter. Inform the hiring manager that you’d love to go in for an interview. Provide your email address or other contact information and tell them that you’ll reach out in a week if you don’t hear back. Thank them for spending their time reading your cover letter.
1. Entry-Level Cover Letter Example
This entry-level cover letter was written by a recent graduate who only has a little part-time work experience.
In our example, the candidate is applying for an entry-level IT technician position. She quickly establishes her enthusiasm about the opportunity, and then highlights her relevant skills to show she can do the job:
The cover letter example
Want a closer look at this cover letter example? Here’s a text version that you can scan through:
Entry-level cover letter example (text version)
Dear Mr. Jacobson,
As a long-term admirer of the work done by the team at Mayflower Technologies, I’m delighted to submit my application for the entry-level IT technician position posted on Indeed.com. As a recent graduate from the University of Rochester with a B.S. in Computer Science, I’m confident that my knowledge of Linux systems, experience in backend coding, and precise attention to detail would make me an asset to the team at Mayflower.
In my former role as a student worker at the University of Rochester’s Technical Services department, I was responsible for troubleshooting a variety of technical issues for staff, assisting with server maintenance, and installing a wide range of equipment. While employed there, I assisted in the development and rollout of new department practices, and helped improve our ticket response time by 12%. I’m sure that this experience will help me pick up new skills and quickly excel as a technician at Mayflower.
I also understand that Mayflower is seeking to expand their cloud computing services. While at the University of Rochester, I specialized in and completed my thesis on cloud computing. The IT technician position at Mayflower would be an exciting opportunity for me to bring my educational background to the table, and learn more about a growing industry.
I’ve attached my resume, which further details my skills and educational background. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about my background. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you further; thank you for your time and consideration.
[Your Name]
What makes this a good cover letter
This entry-level cover letter sample stands out because the applicant emphasizes her enthusiasm about the opportunity from the very first sentence.
Beyond her enthusiasm, the candidate also shows she’s qualified . She quickly (and convincingly) markets her professional strengths , including relevant hard skills (Linux, backend coding) and soft skills (precision, attention to detail).
By the end of her cover letter, the candidate has even demonstrated that she’s researched the position, and is passionate about the work the company is doing. Overall, this is an effective way to make a positive impression as an entry-level job seeker because it shows the employer that you’re energetic and ready to learn.
2. Professional Cover Letter Example
Are you a senior-level professional or experienced manager trying to highlight your professionalism in a cover letter?
The restaurant manager cover letter example below will show you how to come off as a qualified veteran:
Download This Free Example
Here’s a text version of this cover letter sample so you can go through line-by-line:
Professional cover letter example (text version)
I’m writing to apply for the Restaurant Manager opening at MOD Sequel. I have more than five years of experience managing restaurants and bars, and my professional expertise aligns closely with the responsibilities outlined in your job advertisement.
In my role as Restaurant Manager for Bar Louie, I proved to be an efficient, enthusiastic, and strong leader. My value quickly became apparent to Bar Louie’s shareholders after I single-handedly trained and prepared the entire waitstaff for opening night and beyond. Not only did our team meet sales goals each month for the first year, but the down payment for the property was even paid back after the first six months of operating.
MOD Sequel would benefit from my skills in the following areas:
• Eye for excellence and high level of standards • Strong work ethic and leadership skills • Positive attitude even under pressure
I believe MOD Sequel will be a great success for many years to come, and my extensive expertise will help ensure your establishment succeeds well into the future. My time spent in this industry has prepared me for such an opportunity, and I sincerely hope I can contribute soon as a member of your team.
It would be a privilege to discuss your Restaurant Manager position in more detail. I’m happy to come by whenever it’s most convenient for you. Thank you for your time, and I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
Why this is a good cover letter
Right from the start, this applicant showcases the managerial skills they developed while working in the service industry. They then highlight how they’ll apply those skills to make an immediate impact on the company.
Additionally, the applicant mentions the company by name three times. It’s clear that they’re familiar with the business, have an interest in joining this specific team, and understand how they’d fit on the team if hired.
Lastly, our applicant’s cover letter includes their address to highlight how close they live to the restaurant . Pointing out where you live can be helpful if you’re applying for a non-remote job because it shows the employer that you won’t need to move or even commute very far if hired.
3. General Cover Letter Example
This general cover letter was written by a candidate with two years of work experience.
In the example, the candidate is applying for a mid-level digital marketing position. In the first paragraph, the applicant:
- used the hiring manager’s name (showing that effort was put into locating it)
- mentioned where she found the job posting (HR managers love this)
- highlighted relevant experience , establishing her ability to do the job
Here’s a text version of this cover letter sample in case you want a closer look at each paragraph:
General cover letter example (text version)
Dear Ms. Doe,
I was excited to see your job listing for the Senior Digital Marketing position at Westward Strategies on Indeed.com. As a dynamic email marketing specialist with over two years of professional experience executing market research, analyzing consumer data, and running A/B tests to drive successful marketing campaigns, I’m confident that I would be a valuable asset to the team at Westward.
Your job listing mentions a need for someone who is experienced in email segmentation and campaign development, both of which are areas I have extensive experience in. I’m currently employed at Marketed Inc., where I’ve honed my skills by running numerous successful email marketing campaigns. While employed here, I’ve spearheaded a digital promotion campaign for the company’s new line of sandals that successfully raised our total online engagement by an impressive 13% over the course of six months, contributing substantially to the department’s annual goals.
I’m confident that my proven track record of excellent work ethic, unparalleled attention to detail, and high-performing email marketing campaigns will make me an immediate asset at Westward Strategies, and allow me to contribute to the team’s success.
I look forward to discussing the Senior Digital Marketing position and my qualifications with you in more detail. I’m available to talk at your convenience. I’ll be in touch next week to follow up and to make sure you’ve received my application.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Why this is a good example of a cover letter
In the cover letter example above, the candidate is concise and direct . She conveys much of what a cover letter should say in the opening paragraph, like her amount and type of experience, plus where she found the job.
Then the candidate lists specific responsibilities from the job description, and mentions her experience handling similar work. She even gives an example of how her efforts have benefited her current employer.
At this point, the candidate’s cover letter has already helped the hiring manager better understand her value as a hire. But she’s not done yet.
Finally, the candidate signs off by mentioning how she’ll reach out if she doesn’t hear back from the hiring manager. This call to action is a key part of a general cover letter, because it highlights the writer’s interest in the job, and willingness to go further than other candidates for the opportunity.
4. Creative Cover Letter Example
A creative cover letter makes you stand out by adding a bit of personality and flair to your application.
In our creative cover letter example, the candidate is applying for a senior-level social media manager position. By the second paragraph, she has the reader’s attention. Then, she establishes her qualifications:
Take a more detailed look at this cover letter sample by reading through the plain text version:
Creative cover letter example (text version)
As a quick-thinking online native who’s obsessed (yes, obsessed) with the Scatterplot app, I was thrilled to see your listing for the Social Media Manager position at Scatterplot Entertainment Co.
With over three years of professional experience as an online brand manager under my belt, I’ve analyzed user metrics, run A/B tests, and spearheaded viral social media campaigns. You name it, I’ve clocked an embarrassing number of hours online working on it. I’m confident my adaptability, hands-on branding experience, and encyclopedic meme knowledge would make me a perfect fit for the team at Scatterplot.
Currently, in my role at DotMap as a Social Media Manager, I manage and execute highly successful online branding campaigns. I regularly produce viral content, getting several of our branded Tweets featured on major websites. In one such instance, I tweeted a thread of adorable corgis using the DotMap iOS app — receiving over 60 thousand interactions and earning a spot on Buzzfeed’s front page.
I’m fiercely competitive in my approach, up-to-date on all the latest trends, and can clean up even the messiest social media disasters. I’m positive my knack for creating clickable content will make me an immediate asset to the Social Media team at Scatterplot.
I look forward to discussing the Social Media Manager position and my qualifications with you in more detail. I’m available to talk at your soonest convenience, and I’ll be in touch next week to follow up, just to make sure you’ve received my application!
Warm regards,
First, the candidate doesn’t waste the reader’s time . She immediately states her interest in the position, relevant qualifications, and specific skills. Hiring managers are busy, so it’s crucial to be direct in both your cover letter and resume.
Next, she presents her information in a casual, fun tone . A personal touch in your cover letter helps you present yourself as a creative, enthusiastic job seeker. It also makes your application more memorable.
Finally, the candidate lists specific accomplishments from her previous job, and explains how these accomplishments are relevant to the position.
Elaborating on your professional achievements is essential to writing a great cover letter. Your achievements show the hiring manager what they will gain by hiring you, and emphasize your worth as a potential employee.
5. Career Change Cover Letter Example
Writing a cover letter for a job in your current industry is pretty straightforward. But writing a career change cover letter requires a slightly different approach.
The sample cover letter below includes the three elements you need to persuade a hiring manager you’re ready to transfer industries, such as:
- One reason (or more) for the career change
- An example of a transferable skill in action
- Proof of commitment to the new field
Want a closer look at this cover letter example? Here’s a text version that you can read more carefully:
Career change cover letter example (text version)
Ever since I was a child, I’ve loved transforming people through the art of makeup. My proudest accomplishment was preparing my younger sister for her prom night — she was voted prom queen that evening. Because of my passion for this art form, I’m applying for the makeup artist position at Studio 96.
I’ve worked in several customer service positions since I graduated high school, through which I’ve honed my people skills and improved my ability to work effectively in high-pressure situations. In fact, in my current position at Zara I’ve increased sales by 17% this month.
However, I’ve found that customer service doesn’t satisfy my creative side. Thus, I’m eager to join Studio 96, a company I’ve been a fan of since I learned about the avant-garde approach to makeup application developed under your founder Bianca Del Vanjie.
To meet Studio 96’s needs, I’ve completed the 150-hour course in Makeup Artistry offered by the Los Angeles-based Sonique Academy in my spare time. I’ve also volunteered for the Look Good, Feel Better organization, where I boosted the self-esteem of cancer patients by giving them makeovers.
I am looking forward to hearing back from you. I can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email]. Thank you for considering my application.
The first reason this is a great cover letter example is that it’s sincere . The applicant is sincerely passionate about her target industry — she even provides a relatable story to emphasize this sincerity.
This cover letter is also great because it directly addresses the reason for the applicant’s career change . Letting the hiring manager know why you’re looking for employment in a different industry is necessary if you’re changing careers, because they’ll want to know why you’re making the change.
Finally, it’s clear the writer of this cover letter is committed to the new job . She’s even worked on her skill-set to prepare her for this change in professions.
6. Cover Letter for Promotion Example
Have you been with your current company for a while and want to take on more responsibility ? You’ll likely need to write an internal cover letter for promotion to convince your boss that you’re ready to move up the corporate ladder.
A cover letter for promotion differs from a regular cover letter in two ways:
- It emphasizes your managerial or higher-level skills
- It focuses on your dedication to your current company
In the following example, the candidate is writing to the marketing director of their company to apply for an open senior-level sales manager position:
If you’re having trouble reading this cover letter sample, take a look at the text version below:
Cover letter for promotion example (text version)
Dear Mrs. Lasker,
As a loyal employee of Peabody, I’m excited to formally apply for the Sales Manager position in the Marketing Department. Since starting as a Sales Representative at Peabody four years ago, I quickly mastered the requisite skills for the role, and have helped our department regularly exceed sales goals.
From the beginning I’ve demonstrated an ability to learn quickly and exceed expectations. During my tenure, I’ve developed excellent sales skills, honed my interpersonal abilities, and subsequently helped my department generate a 6% increase in profits this quarter. Additionally, this year has given me the opportunity to sharpen my leadership skills — having successfully onboarded 4 new employees and assumed management over a small direct sales team.
I’ve read the requirements for the Sales Management position thoroughly, and I’m confident that the skills I’ve refined during my time working here paired with my passion for customers and making direct sales make me an ideal fit.
I appreciate your consideration and look forward to discussing this opportunity for promotion with you at your convenience. My supervisor is also happy to meet with you to elaborate on my performance in the Sales Department, and will attest to my qualifications. Please let me know if there’s any other information I can provide that would help with this process, and I’d be happy to provide it to you.
This candidate’s cover letter stands out because it’s direct and highlights specific accomplishments expected of a managerial-level employee.
In the introduction of this cover letter, the candidate emphasizes his loyalty to the company, and quickly moves on to talk about the contributions he’s made to his team.
Then, the candidate provides examples of his leadership and management experience to demonstrate that he’s ready to take on a more significant role.
By the end of this cover letter, this candidate has shown his boss that he’s not only made an impact in his current role, but is already exceeding expectations. More importantly, he has the skills needed to keep up with the demands of a more senior position.
Cover Letter Examples by Application Type
The following guides will show you how to write a variety of different cover letter formats and types:
- Short Cover Letter Examples
- Relocation Cover Letter
- Email Cover Letter
- Letter of Interest
- Letter of Interest vs Cover Letter
- Best Cover Letters of 2022
Our robust collection of industry-specific cover letter examples is sure to have a cover letter for your unique situation. You can download all of these sample cover letters for free and customize them to fit your needs.
Click your industry below to find examples for different jobs:
Accounting & Finance
Administration & office support, business & management, business development, construction & maintenance, customer service & retail, customer service & retail, customer support & sales, digital art & production, education & human services, emergency services, engineering, finance & banking, fine arts & aesthetics, food service, healthcare & wellbeing, healthcare & wellbeing, human resources (hr), information technology (it), law & legal, life situation, maintenance, marketing & sales, personal & child care, public safety & security, resume: yes, science & research, spa & salon, transportation & travel, warehouse & logistics, web development & design, writing & media.
- Account Manager Cover Letter
- Accountant Cover Letter
- Accounting Intern Cover Letter
- Accounts Payable Cover Letter
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Cover Letter
- Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
- Clerical Cover Letter
- Executive Assistant Cover Letter
- Front Desk Cover Letter
- Office Administrator Cover Letter
- Office Assistant Cover Letter
- Office Manager Cover Letter
- Personal Assistant Cover Letter
- Receptionist Cover Letter
- Secretary Cover Letter
- Assistant Manager Cover Letter
- Business Development Cover Letter
- Executive Cover Letter
- McKinsey Cover Letter
- Operations Manager Cover Letter
- Product Manager Cover Letter
- Program Manager Cover Letter
- Property Manager Cover Letter
- Public Relations Cover Letter
- Real Estate Agent Cover Letter
- Supervisor Cover Letter
- Business Analyst Cover Letter
- Consulting Cover Letter
- Data Analyst Cover Letter
- Project Coordinator Cover Letter
- Scrum Master Cover Letter
- Architecture Cover Letter
- Construction Project Manager Cover Letter
- Construction Worker Cover Letter
- Project Manager Cover Letter
- Welder Cover Letter
- Cashier Cover Letter
- Grocery Store Cashier Cover Letter
- Retail Manager Cover Letter
- Retail Sales Associate Cover Letter
- Store Manager Cover Letter
- Budtender Cover Letter
- Call Center Representative Cover Letter
- Customer Service Cover Letter
- Sales Cover Letter
- Sales Manager Cover Letter
- CFO Cover Letter
- Creative Director Cover Letter
- Event Coordinator Cover Letter
- Event Planner Cover Letter
- Graphic Designer Cover Letter
- Photographer Cover Letter
- Production Assistant Cover Letter
- Video Editor Cover Letter
- Academic Advisor Cover Letter
- Assistant Principal Cover Letter
- Coaching Cover Letter
- Librarian Cover Letter
- Library Page Cover Letter
- School Counselor Cover Letter
- Hospitality (Hotel Front Desk) Cover Letter
- Hostess Cover Letter
- Housekeeping Cover Letter
- Server Cover Letter
- Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter
- Civil Engineer Cover Letter
- Electrical Engineer Cover Letter
- Engineering Cover Letter
- Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter
- Network Engineer Cover Letter
- Software Engineer Cover Letter
- Bank Teller Cover Letter
- Bookkeeper Cover Letter
- Finance Cover Letter
- Financial Advisor Cover Letter
- Financial Analyst Cover Letter
- Investment Banking Cover Letter
- Acting Cover Letter
- Artist Cover Letter
- Model Cover Letter
- Music Cover Letter
- Barista Cover Letter
- Bartender Cover Letter
- Chef Cover Letter
- Fast Food Cover Letter
- Food Service Cover Letter
- Line Cook Cover Letter
- Restaurant Cover Letter
- Restaurant Manager Cover Letter
- Dental Assistant Cover Letter
- Dental Hygienist Cover Letter
- Dentist Cover Letter
- Healthcare Cover Letter
- Personal Trainer Cover Letter
- Physical Therapist Cover Letter
- Physician Assistant Cover Letter
- SLP Cover Letter
- Dietitian Cover letter
- Interior Design Cover Letter
- Human Resources (HR) Cover Letter
- Recruiter Cover Letter
- Cyber Security Cover Letter
- Data Scientist Cover Letter
- Help Desk Cover Letter
- Information Technology (IT) Cover Letter
- IT Project Manager Cover Letter
- System Administrator Cover Letter
- Technical Cover Letter
- CIA Cover Letter
- FBI Cover Letter
- Legal Assistant Cover Letter
- Paralegal Cover Letter
- Stay at Home Mom Cover Letter
- Custodian Cover Letter
- Electrician Cover Letter
- Janitor Cover Letter
- Mechanic Cover Letter
- Communications Cover Letter
- Digital Marketing Cover Letter
- Marketing Assistant Cover Letter
- Marketing Coordinator Cover Letter
- Marketing Cover Letter
- Marketing Intern Cover Letter
- Marketing Manager Cover Letter
- Social Media Cover Letter
- Case Manager Cover Letter
- Medical Assistant Cover Letter
- Medical Receptionist Cover Letter
- Medical Scribe Cover Letter
- Occupational Therapist Cover Letter
- Pharmacist Cover Letter
- Pharmacy Technician Cover Letter
- Phlebotomist Cover Letter
- Veterinary Assistant Cover Letter
- Veterinary Technician Cover Letter
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Cover Letter
- Entry Level Nurse Cover Letter
- New Grad Nurse Cover Letter
- Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter
- Nursing Cover Letter
- School Nurse Cover Letter
- Babysitter Cover Letter
- Camp Counselor Cover Letter
- Caregiver Cover Letter
- Child Care Cover Letter
- Nanny Cover Letter
- Social Worker Cover Letter
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Cover Letter
- Firefighter Cover Letter
- Police Officer Cover Letter
- Security Guard Cover Letter
- Security Officer Cover Letter
- Amazon Cover Letter
- Academic Cover Letter
- Biology Cover Letter
- Computer Science Cover Letter
- Postdoc Cover Letter
- Research Assistant Cover Letter
- Science Cover Letter
- Cosmetologist Cover Letter
- Esthetician Cover Letter
- Hair Stylist Cover Letter
- Makeup Artist Cover Letter
- Massage Therapist Cover Letter
- College Student Cover Letter
- Cover Letter for Internship
- High School Student Cover Letter
- Recent Graduate Cover Letter
- Art Teacher Cover Letter
- Elementary Teacher Cover Letter
- Paraeducator Cover Letter
- Preschool Teacher Cover Letter
- Special Education Cover Letter
- Substitute Teacher Cover Letter
- Teacher Assistant Cover Letter
- Teacher Cover Letter
- Tutor Cover Letter
- Delivery Driver Cover Letter
- Flight Attendant Cover Letter
- Truck Driver Cover Letter
- Inventory Specialist Cover Letter
- Logistics Coordinator Cover Letter
- Supply Chain Analyst Cover Letter
- Supply Chain Cover letter
- Warehouse Manager Cover Letter
- Warehouse Worker Cover Letter
- Designer Cover Letter
- Front End Developer Cover Letter
- Full Stack Developer Cover Letter
- Java Developer Cover Letter
- Programmer Cover Letter
- UX Designer Cover Letter
- Web Developer Cover Letter
- Copywriter Cover Letter
- Journalist Cover Letter
Once you’ve found a cover letter example for your target position, use a matching resume sample to help you write a resume and complete your job application.
Frequently asked questions about cover letters
Still have questions? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about cover letters:
What are 3 things you should include in a cover letter?
Three things you should include in a cover letter are:
- An introduction – tell employers who you are and what kind of experience you have.
- Your qualifications – convince employers you’re the right person for the job by highlighting your qualifications, accomplishments, and skills.
- A convincing conclusion – restate your excitement about the position and urge the employer to contact you.
Combined, these three elements make for a compelling cover letter that communicates why you’re the ideal person for the job.
How do you write a simple cover letter?
Here’s how to write a simple cover letter in six steps:
- Opening: start with “Dear” and the hiring manager’s name
- First paragraph: write a short introduction that states the job you’re applying for and what kind of background you have
- Second paragraph: explain your current job and some of your accomplishments at that job
- Third paragraph: highlight your skills that are relevant to the job you want
- Fourth paragraph: close out with a call to action restating your interest in the job and encouraging the employer to contact you
- Sign off: end with a formal closing like “Sincerely,” and sign or write your name
How important is a cover letter?
A cover letter is very important because it not only shows off your professional qualifications, it also gives you an opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the position and explain why you’re the ideal person for the job.
A well-written cover letter is often the difference between being offered an interview or being outright rejected for a job, so why not write one to improve your odds on the job hunt?
How do you build a cover letter?
There are three ways you build a cover letter:
- Use a professional cover letter generator tool
The fastest (and easiest) way to build a cover letter is by using an online cover letter builder .
These tools use AI to automatically write a strong cover letter for you based on a few bits of information that you provide for the tool.
However, most cover letter generators aren’t free, so if you need to save money you may want to build a resume the old-fashioned way.
- Write it from scratch
Writing your cover letter yourself is the highest effort and most time-consuming way to make your cover letter. However, it’s also free and you have complete control over the content.
If you’re applying for a job that requires writing skills, it’s a good idea to write your cover letter from scratch because it gives you an opportunity to highlight your writing abilities.
- Use a cover letter template
A simple cover letter template is a good starting point from which to make your cover letter. Most cover letter templates provide a general format that you can quickly fill in with your information, so you don’t need to use as much energy as you would writing your letter from scratch.
Using a template is a good way to make your cover letter if you’re unsure where to start and need some guidance. However, the end result is that your cover letter might come across as generic or awkward if you’re not careful, so it’s not always the best method.
Additional cover letter FAQs
- Is the cover letter dead?
- Should you introduce yourself in a cover letter?
- What do employers look for in a cover letter?
- What are the three types of cover letters?
- What is the best greeting for a cover letter?
- What does a cover letter look like?
- Do cover letters need an address?
- Can a cover letter be two pages?
- Are optional cover letters really optional?
- Should I attach a cover letter or write it in the email?
Click to rate this article
Written by Conrad Benz
Conrad Benz is a Digital Media Specialist & Resume Expert at Resume Genius, where he helps countless job-seekers craft standout resumes and launch their careers. His... more
Related Articles
Cover Letter Statistics for 2023
January 12, 2023 | By Rebecca Tay, Ph.D.
How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job
December 22, 2022 | By Ida Pettersson
- Cover Letter Templates
September 18, 2022 | By Pauline Delaney
Are Cover Letters Necessary in 2023?
January 11, 2023 | By Corissa Peterson
Best Cover Letter Examples of 2022 & Why They’re So Good
May 18, 2022 | By Aaron Case, CPRW
Making a ChatGPT Cover Letter: The Good, Bad, & Ugly
March 9, 2023 | By Eva Chan, CPRW
How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience
July 26, 2022 | By Eva Chan, CPRW
Cover Letter Format: How to Format Your Cover Letter in 2023
December 8, 2022 | By Emily Crowley
Resume Tools
- Resume Builder
- Resume Templates
- Resume Examples
- How to Make a Resume
- Resume Format
- Resume Summary Generator
- Resume Help
Cover Letter Tools
- Cover Letter Builder
- Cover Letter Examples
- How to Write a Cover Letter
- Cover Letter Format
- Cover Letter Help
- What Is a CV?
- How to Write a CV
- CV Templates
- CV Examples
Career Tools
- Thank You Note Samples & Templates
- Resignation Letter Samples
- Letter of Recommendation Templates
- Business Letter Formats
- Career Advice
- Forgot Password
- Terms & Conditions
- Privacy Policy
- Accessibility
© 2023, Sonaga Tech Limited. All rights reserved
ResumeGenius.com is owned and operated by Sonaga Tech Limited, Hamilton, Zweigniederlassung Luzern with offices in Luzern Switzerland.
Professional cover letter examples by industry and job title
Anatomy of a cover letter example, 6 cover letter examples for unique job situations, 7 benefits of using a sample cover letter for a job application, more resources.
Peruse our library of cover letter examples to find the one that is right for the job title you seek. Choose from a broad range of industries, job titles and experience levels to find the appropriate cover letter example for your role. Study it to learn exactly how to craft your own.
A cover letter should contain six basic sections — the header, a greeting, an opening paragraph, body paragraphs , a closing statement and a professional signoff. All good cover letter examples contain these critical sections:
Header: Your header contains your contact information and links to your LinkedIn account and your professional website, if applicable.
Greeting: Here, you greet the person reading your letter. Typically this will be a recruiter or hiring manager. Do your best to find the name of the person who will read your letter and avoid generic greetings whenever possible.
Opening paragraph: In your first paragraph, introduce yourself and express enthusiasm for the role.
Body paragraphs: In the body of your letter, give specifics about your work experience and relevant skills, and include measurable achievements that show you are the right person for the role.
Closing paragraph: Here, express your interest in learning more about the role and invite the hiring manager to reach out to you.
Professional signoff: End your letter with a polite and professional signoff, such as “Sincerely.” Avoid overly familiar signoffs, like “Love” or “Cheers.”
See what people are saying about us
So far, we’ve focused on standard cover letters, but some circumstances call for variations on the classic application letter. Below, we outline some common scenarios job seekers face and provide cover letter examples that show how to explain them.
Pro tip: Adding a personal touch to your cover letter is a must
Cover letter examples 14-Day Trial
Create a job-winning cover letter with dozens of great cover letter examples. And get help writing your resignation letter, acceptance letter, thank you note, and more.
Good cover letter examples can help job candidates:
- Pick the best cover letter template for their job and industry.
- Ensure that their letter adheres to accepted standards.
- Choose the appropriate Format their cover letters correctly.
- Decide what information to use and leave out.
- Set the proper tone for their cover letters.
- Pick the best keywords for their cover letters.
- Find the best words to express their experience and interest.
Pro tip: Research pays off!
How do I write a simple cover letter?
A strong cover letter doesn’t have to be long and complicated. In fact, the best cover letters are simple and to the point. Use your cover letter to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and outline the skills and qualifications that make you the right fit for the position. Study our professional cover letter examples for the job title you seek to learn how to craft a letter that will get you noticed.
What makes a strong cover letter?
A strong cover letter outlines the work experience and hard and soft skills that make you unique. Concentrate on highlighting the ones that relate directly to the role you seek. Be succinct — many recruiters read dozens of cover letters for every open role. Keeping the contents of your letter on point and relevant will improve your chances of landing a job interview.
What is the best opening line for a cover letter?
While there is no magic opening line for a cover letter, the opening paragraph of your cover letter should introduce you as a candidate and express your interest and enthusiasm for the role. Keep the opening lines of your cover letter professional and refrain from being overly casual or familiar. Our cover letter examples show you how to write a strong opening for your cover letter.
Build a great cover letter in minutes!
Get noticed.
We know the keywords employers are looking for your job. It’s easy to pick the right ones to include in your resume.
Don’t End Up in the “No” Pile
Cover Letter Builder helps you write a strong cover letter, even without any work experience.
Easy to Customize
Change the design of your cover letter with one click. Show employers your attention to detail.
But wait — that’s not all. We have many more articles on cover letters to support your job search.
Cover letter-writing articles:
Once your cover letter is in line, don’t forget about the main event — your resume.
We have an entire library of free articles on the subject.
Resume articles:
Was this information helpful? Let us know!
250+ Cover Letter Examples for 2023
Create a first-class cover letter that gets you the job interview, using cover letter samples for over 500 jobs written and designed by our experts.
- 30% higher chance of getting a job
- 42% higher response rate from recruiters
Cover letters are essentially elevator pitches that give employers insight into your strengths and accomplishments . Our cover letter examples are effective because they:
Show real interest.
Highlight key skills and achievements .
Explain why the applicant is the best job candidate.
What to include in a cover letter
Contact information:.
List your phone number and professional email address.
Employer’s information:
This should look like our job cover letter sample.
Salutation:
Address the letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager.
Start with a relevant accomplishment like our letter sample.
Elaborate on your accomplishments and skills to show your value.
The best cover letter examples close by inviting employers to get in touch.
Want more examples of cover letters, plus tips for organizing and formatting a cover letter? Check out our guide to cover letter formats .
Perfect Cover Letter Builder
Our Cover Letter Builder helps you write a cover letter in minutes with step-by-step guidance, expert phrases and professional, customizable templates.
Professional cover letter examples by industry and job title
Accounting cover letter examples.
For an accounting job, follow our employment cover letter examples to emphasize your number-crunching skills and your ability to work with others.
- Accounting Assistant
- Assistant Accountant
You’ve made an impression with your analytical acumen and your critical thinking skills. These cover letter examples show how to expand on those strengths.
Our Cover Letter Builder will help you craft a great cover letter that tells employers who you are and what you can bring to the table. We offer:
- Expert advice on every step.
- Professional content suggestions.
- A variety of formats to download and save your document.
Example cover letters for administrative jobs
Get inspired by these great cover letter examples and showcase your keen eye for detail, good organization and proficiency with computer software.
- Administrative Assistant
- Clerical Assistant
- Data Entry Clerk
- Data Entry Specialist
- Executive Assistant
- Office Administrator
- Office Assistant
- Office Clerk
- Office Manager
- Personal Assistant
- Practice Manager
- Receptionist
- Store Administrative Assistant
Administrative
Your ability to multitask is unparalleled. These cover letter examples will help you show employers what makes you a cut above the rest.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to write a perfect cover letter. Our builder provides:
- Professional guidance for every step in the process.
- Expert suggestions for each section.
- The ability to download and save your cover letter in multiple formats.
Professional cover letter examples for business operations jobs
Like these cover letter examples for a job in business operations, focus on your ability to coordinate teams and processes and your superior communications skills.
- Business Owner
- Business Development Manager
- Executive Director
- Operations Manager
- Operations Supervisor
- Owner Operator
- Vice President
Business operations
Your technical proficiency is as strong as your decision making and problem-solving abilities. Our cover letter examples for business operations will help you to stand out from the crowd.
Our Cover Letter Builder will help you to quickly and easily create a cover letter that gets noticed. We provide:
- Guidance and tools for each step.
- Professional content suggestions for each part of your cover letter.
- All major file formats to download and save your document.
Construction cover letter examples
Use an application letter sample to highlight your strong work ethic and ability to work with specific equipment, such as forklifts or cranes.
- General Labourer
- Site Manager
Construction
You’re deterous, organized and you can solve problems on the fly. Our construction industry cover letter examples will help you expand on your toolkit and knowledge, so hiring managers know you’re the one for the job.
Our Cover Letter Builder will help you create the perfect cover letter that tells employers who you are and why you want to work for them. Plus, we provide:
- Expert advice on every step of the process.
Culinary cover letter examples
Enthusiasm, experience in fast-paced work environments and knowledge of food preparation are key areas to cover in a culinary cover letter. Get inspired by a job cover letter sample below.
- Bakery Clerk
- Kitchen Hand
- Kitchen Staff
Make a great impression on hiring managers with our culinary cover letter examples. We’ll help you align your agility in the kitchen with your attention to detail and customer service acumen.
Our Cover Letter Builder will help you build the perfect cover letter and provide:
- Guidance along the way.
- Expert tools and content suggestions for each section of your letter.
Sample cover letters for customer service jobs
Use one of our customer service employment cover letter examples as a guide to stress your commitment to assisting people and your ability to work as part of a team.
- Customer Service Agent
- Customer Service Coordinator
- Customer Care Representative
- Customer Service Advisor
- Customer Service Manager
- Customer Service Representative
- Customer Service Specialist
- Room Attendant
- Service Advisor
- Service Coordinator
Customer service
Our customer service cover letter examples can help you get the job you want. We’ll show you how to describe your experience, showcase interpersonal skills and display your personality to impress potential employers.
Create an effective cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder. We provide:
- Professional advice along the way.
- Job-specific keywords and skills.
- All standard file formats to download and save your cover letter.
Education cover letter samples
These are good cover letter examples to follow if you want to highlight your proficiency with specific subjects and intangible strengths such as flexibility, communication and patience.
- Education Assistant Director
- Assistant Principal
- Educational Assistant
- Resident Assistant
Get inspired with these professionally crafted education cover letter samples. We will show you how to effectively express your passion for the job, convey your knowledge and show your top strengths.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to make the perfect education cover letter. Our builder offers:
- Expert guidance for writing a winning cover letter.
- Professionally written content suggestions.
- Multiple formats to download and save your cover letter.
Examples of cover letters for the food service industry
Display your experiences in fast-paced work environments where teamwork is a necessity, like our expert-written cover letter examples for a job in the food service industry.
- Bar Manager
- Crew Member
- Food Service Worker
- Host/hostess
- Service Crew
Food service
You’re a patient mulitasker with exceptional communication skills. Let our cover letter examples for the food service industry show you how to tell your professional story in a way that hiring managers want to read.
Our Cover Letter Builder can help you expand on the skills you bring to the table and so potential employers know what makes you the best candidate for the job. We give you:
- Professional advice for every step of the process.
- Expert keywords and industry-specific phrases.
- Multiple file formats for saving your cover letter.
Resume cover letter examples for health care support jobs
Elaborate on your training and experience in health care situations and programs. Use our cover letter samples for guidance and include a story about services you’ve provided to patients.
- Caregivers Companions
- Home Health Aide
- Medical Biller
- Medical Receptionist
- Occupational Therapist
- Patient Care Tech
- Patient Service Representative
- Personal Care Aide
- Personal Care Assistant
- Personal Support Worker
- Phlebotomist
Health care support
Make the best impression on potential employers by using our cover letter examples to display your skills and knowledge in a way that says “I’m the best candidate.”
With the help of our Cover Letter Builder, you can create an effective cover letter with:
- Expert advice for each step.
Hospitality cover letter examples
Use a sample cover letter for a resume in the hospitality field for inspiration when emphasizing your achievements and dedication to customer satisfaction.
- Guest Service Agent
- Guest Service Representative
Hospitality
These hospitality cover letter examples will inspire your to make the most of your exceptional customer service skills, organizational abilities and professional achievements.
With the help of our Cover Letter Builder, you can make the best impression with:
- Expert content suggestions.
- The ability to download and save your letter in all major file formats.
Information technology job application letters
Explain how you’ve used your top computer system maintenance skills and show how you’ve successfully improved IT operations in previous jobs. Use our cover letter samples as guides.
- Senior Project Manager
Information technology
Use our information technology cover letter examples to show the achievements and technical acumen you bring to the table.
Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft an effective letter. We offer:
- Expert tools and guidance every step of the way.
- Industry- and job-specific content suggestions for each section of your letter.
- The ability to download and save your document in all major file formats.
Best cover letter examples for law
A good cover letter provides a rundown of your experiences handling legal affairs, performing research or handling documentation and administration at a law firm.
- Legal Assistant
- Legal Receptionist
- Legal Secretary
Our cover letter samples for the law profession will help you plead your case that there’s no one better for the job.
Use our cover letter builder to build a compelling cover letter that wins over potential employers. Our builder provides:
- All the tools and advice to craft a professional cover letter quickly.
- Professional content suggestions for each section of your letter.
- Multiple file formats for downloading and saving your document.
Marketing cover letter samples
Like our sample application letter for a job, demonstrate your creativity, leadership and strategic thinking abilities, and highlight areas of focus like social media or email marketing.
- Brand Ambassador
- Marketing Executive
- Marketing Intern
- Marketing Manager
- Product Manager
These marketing sample cover letters will inspire you to display your industry strengths and work experience so that hiring managers want to know more.
Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft an effective letter. It provides:
- Expert guidance every step of the way.
- Professional content suggestions and tools for optimizing each section of your letter.
- All standard file formats to download and save your letter.
Medical cover letter examples
Go beyond standard credentials and training. Let our sample cover letters help you highlight your ability to empathize with clients and patients.
- Clinic Administrator
- Medical Direct Support Professional
- Medical Technologist
- Radiologic Technologist
- Speech Language Pathologist
- Surgical Technologist
Our medical cover letter examples will help you display your medical knowledge, industry achievements licenses and certifications to stand out.
Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft a perfect medical cover letter. We offer:
- Professional advice every step of the way.
- Expert tips and content suggestions.
Nursing cover letter examples
Emphasize your interpersonal and communication skills, areas of expertise and best experiences caring for others in your nursing resume cover letter.
- Certified Nurse Assistant
- Charge Nurse
- Director Of Nursing
- Experienced Intensive Care Nurse
- Nursing Assistant
- Operating Room Nurse
- Patient Care Technician
- Perioperative Nurse
- Student Nurse
Use our nursing cover letter samples for inspiration. We’ll help you express your compassion for others, display your ability to multitask, and showcase your attention to detail. Hiring managers won’t want to look away.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to create a cover letter quickly and easily. We offer:
- Expert advice.
- Industry-standard keywords and tools to optimize your cover letter.
- Multiple file formats to download and save your letter.
Production cover letter samples
Similar to our sample letter of interest for a job in production, convince employers you’re the right person for the job by showcasing your ability to work well with others.
- Assembly Line
- Forklift Operator
- Petroleum Operator
- Production Assistant
- Production Operator
- Production Supervisor
Use these production sample cover letters to see how to best emphasize your work achievements and greatest strengths.
- Professional advice for each step.
Retail application letter examples
Provide details on your retail resume cover letter on job-related abilities, such as maintaining merchandise and point-of-sale systems, and interpersonal skills such as customer service and multitasking abilities.
- Assistant Store Manager
- Department Supervisor
- District Manager
- Regional Manager
- Retail Assistant
- Store Manager
- Sales Supervisor
- Shop Assistant
Our retail cover letter examples are inspiring. Use them to help you write a perfect cover letter that compels hiring managers to learn more.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a compelling cover letter quickly and easily. We provide:
- Tools and industry-specific content suggestions for each section.
- Multiple file formats for saving your letter.
Great cover letter examples for sales jobs
Give concrete examples of how you’ve helped improve a company’s bottom line, using our cover letter samples for guidance.
- Salesperson
- Director Of Sales
- Inside Sales
- Lead Sales Associate
- Outside Sales Representative
- Regional Sales Manager
- Sales Associate
- Sales Executive
- Sales Specialist
- Senior Consultant
Social services cover letter examples
Choose an example cover letter to see how to emphasize your ability to communicate with others. Add any training in specialized areas such as substance abuse work to your letter.
- Case Manager
- Drug And Alcohol Counselor
- Group Leader
Social services
Our social services cover letter samples will help you expand on your experience and core qualifications so that you can display your compassion, patience and top-notch listening skills.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a cover letter that gets noticed. We provide:
- Professional guidance along the way.
- Expert content suggestions for each area of your cover letter.
- Multiple file formats to download and save your document.
Teaching cover letter examples
Let potential employers know you have specialized knowledge and explain how you enrich children in the classroom. Our cover letter examples for a job in teaching can help!
- Adjunct Professor
- Assistant Teacher
- Elementary Teacher
- Graduate Assistant
- Kindergarten Teacher
- Master Teacher
- Preschool Teacher
- Student Assistant
- Student Teacher
- Summer Teacher
- Teacher’s Aide
- Teaching Assistant
Our sample cover letters for teaching will inspire your to display your presentation skills, interpersonal skills and in-depth subject matter expertise so that potential employers can’t look elsewhere.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a compelling cover letter with ease. Our builder provides:
Cover letter examples for other popular industries
Examples of cover letters for special circumstances, entry-level cover letter.
A simple cover letter should focus on your skills, education and willingness to learn in a new position.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to create a cover letter that will help jump-start your career with:
- Expert advice throughout.
- Multiple file formats for saving your document.
Entry-level cover letter example
Notice how this example of an application letter emphasizes the job seeker’s training, skills and career ambitions while also connecting them to what the potential employer needs.
Career change cover letter
This modern cover letter example can help showcase the changes you’ve made to move forward in your career. It will also help highlight your transferable skills and career accomplishments.
Make this letter your own in our Cover Letter Builder, which includes:
- Guidance on every step.
- Expert phrases, skills and bullet points.
- All major file formats to download and save your cover letter.
Career change cover letter for a job application
When changing careers, you must make a connection between jobs. Follow the lead of this sample cover letter by highlighting skills you’ve developed in previous jobs that match the new one.
Employment gap cover letter
A cover letter is the best tool to explain a time period without employment. This example shows you how to approach the subject while keeping the attention on your skills and qualifications.
You can edit this cover letter in our Cover Letter Builder, which provides:
- Advice on every step.
- The ability to save your document in all major formats.
Employment gap application letter sample
If you’ve been away from full-time work for long stretches, it’s important to explain to employers what you’ve done during that time. Our cover letter example for a job gap shows how to do so effectively while focusing on your qualifications.
“Cold call” cover letter
Make a confident approach with this cold call cover letter example. Let your skills and qualifications speak for themselves while you make a connection with an employer.
Edit this cover letter with ease in our Cover Letter Builder, which provides you with:
- Step-by-step guidance.
“Cold call” cover letter sample
“Cold call” cover letters are necessary when companies don’t have open positions. This sample letter works perfectly because the first paragraph shows that the job candidate has done her “homework” on the company. She mentions their mission, vision and high standards, and she highlights what she has to offer them.
Professional connection cover letter
Use our Cover Letter Builder to expand on the skills you’ve learned on the job and what you can offer your employer now.
- Guidance on every step
- Expert-approved content suggestions
Professional connection cover letter example
If someone within the company recommended you for the position, write a cover letter that centers around your professional connection, as shown in this resume cover page example.
Temporary-to-permanent employee cover letter
Make it official. Use a modern resume template to transition into a permanent position. Bring to the table the achievements you’ve reached, what you’ve learned so far and how your skills have helped the success of your temporary employer.
Use our Cover Letter Builder to create an effective letter that takes you from a temp to a permanent employee with:
- Expert guidance on every step
- Professeional content suggestions for each section of your letter.
- A variety of file formats to download and save your document.
Temporary-to-permanent employee sample cover letter
The goal of these types of cover letters is to show hiring managers why they should hire you as a full-time employee. Our letter example focuses on specific contributions and explains how they can provide even more value as a full-time employee.
Seeking promotion cover letter
You’ve impressed your employer with your skills and achievements and now you want more. Use this contemporary cover letter to state your case, bring attention to your accomplishments and expand on what you could do in a higher position.
Seeking promotion cover letter example
This application letter is different from other resume cover letter examples because it stresses the job applicant’s familiarity with the company’s goals, values and processes — a big advantage over other applicants.
Unadvertised position cover letter
No need to wait until a job posting is available to apply. Reach out to a potential employer and share your enthusiasm and what you could bring to the company.
Our Cover Letter Builder can help you expand on the skills you can bring to the table and why you should be considered as a candidate.
- Professional advice for every step.
- Multiple file formats to download and save your cover letter.
Sample cover letter for an unadvertised position
No posted job description to refer to? Use this cover letter example for a job that isn’t advertised to help you explain how you heard about the role and to share your enthusiasm about joining the team. Mention your top skills and accomplishments.
New position with current employer cover letter
A modern cover letter includes your career progress, goals reached while at the company and the knowledge acquired through experience. Find new footing in your career by adding a cover letter to your application.
Create an effective cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder, which will help with:
- Expert guidance along the way.
- A variety of formats to download and save your cover letter.
Job application letter for a new position with current employer
Put your best foot forward with a compelling cover letter for a resume. Like this sample letter of interest for a job with the same employer, point out your accomplishments and explain how you will benefit your employer on future projects.
Referral cover letter
You’ve made an impression on your previous employers and they’re willing to back it up. With this classic cover letter, you can expand your skills and what you can bring to a new employer.
Our Cover Letter Builder will help you craft a great cover letter with the referrals to back it up and:
- Expert advice on every step
- Professional content suggestions
Referral cover letter sample
When done correctly, telling an employer that someone in the company referred you lets them know you’re someone they can trust. Use our referral cover letter sample to do this correctly and catch their attention the right way.
Other cover letter resources
The following articles are a great source of information to make our cover letter examples your own:
- How to Position a Past Cannabis Industry Job in Your Cover Letter
- 5 Qualities That are Part of Every Successful Cover Letter
- 9 Best Cover Letter Tips for Extroverts
Get noticed with a polished cover letter
Use our cover letter examples as inspiration to write a perfect cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder. We guide you through each section of your cover letter and provide expert phrases you can include in just a few clicks.
Cover letter examples FAQ
Last Updated: February 13, 2023
Why should I use your cover letter examples?
My Perfect Resume has 200+ cover letter examples that work for job seekers from all industries and job titles. We offer the following features:
- They’re professionally designed to look their best: Our cover letter samples and cover letter templates are built to display your content neatly and effectively.
- Guidance and tips for every job and industry: We have an example cover letter for every job. Select any example on this page and go to our Cover Letter Builder, which supplies expert suggestions and tips for every section.
- Customize your letter for different jobs: It’s easy to update these application cover letter examples so they fit different jobs — and if you use our builder, you can save and download as many versions of your letter as you need.
- Match your perfect letter with a perfect resume: Use our Resume Builder to create resumes that complement your letter in look and layout.
Are cover letters really necessary?
The short answer is yes. According to the Society of Human Resources Management , a cover letter demonstrates your genuine interest in the job and company. It’s also an opportunity to discuss your accomplishments, introduce yourself more personally, and make a more detailed case for why the employer should be interested in you. This is why we have 200+ cover letter examples for jobs in dozens of industries — you can find the inspiration you need to write a letter that makes an impact.
Should you write a different cover letter for each job application?
Absolutely!
Every job application and company is different. Like a resume, you should use a sample cover letter to tailor your letter to the job you’re applying for and the employer you’re directing that letter to. You want to ensure that what you write and your tone align with the company culture, values and, most importantly, the job application.
What should not be included in a cover letter?
- Spelling or grammatical errors
- Information not relevant to the job
- Personal information, such as your religious beliefs and political affiliations
- Negative comments about your current or former employer
- Overly flattering language
- Your salary or work benefits requirements
Review our library of 200+ cover letter examples for jobs in various industries to get a good idea of what to write in your cover letter.
Should you address employment gaps in a cover letter?
You do not have to discuss the details of employment gaps due to personal reasons (such as an illness or a family matter that needed attending). Neither do gaps caused by your former employer firing or laying you off.
Instead, follow our employment gap cover letter example on this page, and write about your skills, qualifications and relevant experiences and how excited you are about this new opportunity. Just be prepared to discuss employment gaps during the job interview phase . If you can show you were busy with other important pursuits or trained on new skills during your time off, mention them in your letter.
How to write a cover letter that gets noticed?
Here are some tips for writing a great cover letter:
- Research the position and memorize the job requirements.
- Pick a professional cover letter template from our extensive library. It’s best practice to match it to your resume template.
- Find an example of an application letter for a job in your field for inspiration (we have more than 200 cover letter samples to choose from).
- Add your contact information to the header.
- Write the date.
- Add the recipient’s address.
- Address the hiring manager by name.
- Write a short but powerful opening paragraph to introduce yourself.
- Give details about your skills and experience in the body of your application letter.
- Write a closing paragraph encouraging them to contact you for an interview.
- Sign off professionally.
- Proofread your letter at least twice.
- Use information from your resume but don’t just repeat it; instead, use your cover letter to elaborate on it.
Kellie Hanna
Content strategist, career advice expert.
Kellie is the content strategist for My Perfect Resume. She has more than 20 years of experience in digital media and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate their careers. She has a B.A. in English and writing from Temple University.
More cover letter advice
Best Cover Letter Writing tips for 2023
These cover letter writing tips will help you write the perfect cover letter to get the job you want.
8 Ways to Incorporate Volunteer Work Into Your Cover Letter
Volunteer work can improve your chances of standing out as a remarkable applicant. Use our tips to learn how to use this type of experience to your advantage.
Cover Letter Advice: How to Sort the Good From the Bad
Here are a few signature signs that can help you separate wise advice from generic clichés about writing cover letters.
RESUME BUILDER
COVER LETTER BUILDER
- Toggle Button
- Skip to main content
- Skip to primary sidebar
Best Cover Letter Examples for 2023
Our cover letter examples help with your job application because they show you what to include and how to convince employers you’re the right person for the job. We have 245+ samples from over 18 industries. Plus, we give advice and tips on how to use cover letters in various hiring situations.
Popular cover letter examples
Here are some of our most-viewed cover letter samples.
Don’t see your job title? Keep scrolling to search for the exact job title you need,and find hundreds more examples below!
Search cover letters by job title
Use this search bar to scan all the cover letters in our database and find one for the exact role to which you’re applying.
SEARCH BY JOB TITLE
Universal cover letter example
Every cover letter should include the same sections as the sample seen here, regardless of the job.
All cover letters should include these five sections:
Address/Salutation:
- This belongs at the top of the document, where you include your contact info and the address of the person to whom you are writing.
Salutation:
- You should identify the person you are writing to by name .
Introduction paragraph:
- An attention-grabbing opening paragraph where you introduce yourself, mention the role you want and briefly explain what makes you qualified.
Body paragraph(s):
- One or two paragraphs that tell a story about your relevant professional experience, career growth, achievements or skills.
Closing paragraph:
- A final paragraph that restates your interest in the role, thanks the hiring manager for their time, and expresses hope for a future chat or meeting.
- A formal sign-off with your name.
Also known as a job application letter, our cover letter samples help you write a cover letter .
A cover letter example for your industry or job title shows exactly how the end result should look. Use them for inspiration as you write your own!
For even more help, use our Cover Letter Builder !
It’s a great tool that gives step-by-step guidance, features 30+ cover letter designs and provides industry-specific phrasing created by resume experts.
Our builder will eliminate the guesswork of writing a cover letter, and save you a lot of time!
Cover letter examples by industry and job title
Looking for a sample cover letter for a resume in your industry? Check out our examples listed by job title and organized by industry.
- Accounting & Finance
- Administrative
- Construction
- Customer Service
- Firefighting
- Hotel & Hospitality
- Human Resources
- Information Technology
- Safety & Security
- Transportation
Accounting & Finance Cover Letter Examples
Study our accounting and finance cover letter samples for your job application to multiply your chance for success. See how other candidates describe their math skills, tax code knowledge and education to earn these roles.
- Accounting Clerk
- Accounting Manager
- Internal Audit Manager
- Junior Accountant
- Payroll Accountant
- Revenue Manager
Administrative Cover Letter Examples
A cover letter demonstrates your organization and communication skills before you step into the office. These administrative letter examples will help you get ready to write. Use our cover letter examples for the job you desire.
- Administrative Assistant
- Data Collector
- Data Entry Clerk
- Deputy Clerk
- Executive Assistant
- Office Manager
- Personal Assistant
- Receptionist
Business Cover Letter Examples
Here are good cover letter examples for business roles. They’ll help you see the selling points your job competition uses to frame their experience.
- Assistant Director
- Business Analyst
- Business Consultant
- General Manager
- Operations Manager
- Risk Manager
- Shift Manager
Construction Cover Letter Examples
We’ve got example cover letters that you can use as blueprints for your own solid introduction. Get inspired and learn how other job seekers are framing their skills in the construction field.
- Construction Supervisor
- Crane Operator
- General Contractor
- Independent Contractor
- Manual Labor
- Site Supervisor
Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
Writing a cover letter is a breeze if you’ve got the patience and communication skills required for customer service roles. Just stick to the script! Write a great letter using our cover letter examples to guide you.
- Airline Customer Service
- Call Center Representative
- Customer Service Associate
- Customer Service Manager
- Customer Service Representative CV
- Room Attendant
- Service Coordinator
- Ticket Agent
Education Cover Letter Examples
A good cover letter example can show you what you should say to get hired. Study our education cover letter examples below. They’ll help you brainstorm and craft a cover letter worthy of a gold star.
- Academic Dean
- Admissions Counselor
- Assistant Superintendent
- Assistant Teacher
- Director of Admissions
- Instructional Designer
- Literacy Coach
- Preschool Director
- School Guidance Counselor
- School Principal
- School Superintendent
Fire Fighting Cover Letter Examples
Our firefighting example cover letters provide you with good ideas for how you can tell your own career story.
- Fire Inspector
- Firefighter
Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
Give your job search the booster shot it needs, a cover letter that demands attention. Our cover letter samples will help you write your own letter that will impress hiring managers and land you an interview.
- Assisted Living Manager
- Health Care Assistant
- Medical Billing Specialist
- Medical Interpreter
- Medical Office Assistant
- Patient Care Coordinator
- Patient Care Technician
- Patient Service Representative
- Personal Care Assistant
- Speech Therapist
- Wellness Activities Assistant
Hotel & Hospitality Cover Letter Examples
Our cover letters are at your service! Check out our collection of hospitality cover letter samples below. They’re full of great ideas for describing your passion for hospitality, guest satisfaction and great service.
- Guest Service Representative
- Hotel Concierge
- Hotel Guest Service Agent
- Hotel Manager
- Hotel Receptionist
- Retail and Restaurant Associate
Human Resources Cover Letter Examples
HR is often responsible for hiring at many companies, so your cover letter should be top-notch. Review our cover letter samples for HR positions. See how others describe their skills in hiring, managing and developing talent within a company.
- Benefits Analyst
- Compensation and Benefits
- Corporate Recruiter
- Employment Advisor
- HR Business Partner
- HR Coordinator
- HR Executive
- Human Resource Specialist
- Human Resources Generalist
- Human Resources Manager
- Organizational Development
- Recruiting and Employment
- Recruitment Coordinator
- Technical Recruiter
- Training and Development Manager
Information Technology Cover Letter Examples
Nearly every modern business needs technical support. Get insight into how others sell their tech skills. Take advantage of our great cover letter examples to help land the IT job you desire.
- Chief Technology Officer
- Computer Technician
- Data Coordinator
- IT Service Manager
- Project Officer
- Service Delivery Manager
- Service Desk Analyst
- Technology Director
Janitorial Cover Letter Examples
Spruce up your cover letter to score a new job with our maintenance and janitorial example cover letters below. They’ll help you craft a letter that shows employers you’ll keep their workplaces up and running.
- Cleaning Professionals
- Executive Housekeeper
- Housekeeper
- Housekeeping Supervisor
Marketing Cover Letter Examples
If your resume is your personal branding statement, your cover letter is the sales pitch to get hired. Hone your message for marketing and advertising positions by looking over cover letter example letters here.
- Account Manager
- Advertising Operations Manager
- Analytics Manager
- Brand Manager
- Chief Marketing Officer
- Digital Marketing Manager
- E Commerce Manager
- Market Researcher
- Product Marketer
- Public Relations
- Social Media Manager
Medical Cover Letter Examples
Our cover letter samples for medical professionals will show hiring managers you’ve got the necessary skills, schooling and work experience to succeed. We’ve got examples from every medical specialty.
- Acupuncturist
- Anesthesiologist
- Audiologist
- Cardiologist
- Clinical Research Assistant
- Dialysis Patient Care Technician
- General Practitioner
- Health And Safety Officer
- Hospital Clerk
- Medical Records Clerk
- Nursing Home Administrator
- Optical Assistant
- Pediatrician
- Phlebotomist
- Respiratory Therapist
- Ultrasound Technician
Retail Cover Letter Examples
Earn a new job in retail with a stellar cover letter. See how our cover example letters for retail jobs demonstrate the full range of skills needed in the industry.
- Area Manager
- Assistant General Manager
- Assistant Merchandiser
- Merchandise Associate
- Mobile Sales Pro
- Retail Assistant Store Manager
- Retail Merchandiser
- Retail Sales Associate
- Retail Supervisor
- Store Manager
- Storekeeper
- Supermarket Cashier
Sales Cover Letter Examples
Sell your future employer on hiring you with an excellent cover letter. Browse through our sales cover letter samples for one matching the role you want.
- Automotive Salesperson
- Client Relationship Manager
- Franchise Owner
- Inside Sales Representative
- Medical Sales Representative
- Outside Sales Representative
- Regional Manager
- Sales Account Executive
- Sales and Marketing Coordinator
- Sales Coordinator
- Sales Director
- Sales Operations Manager
- Sales Representative
- Sales Supervisor
- Salesperson
- Technical Sales Representative
- Telemarketer
- Territory Sales Manager
Safety & Security Cover Letter Examples
Secure a job by submitting a great cover letter. Check out some top-notch security cover letter samples to see how you can best sell your own experience to employers.
- Director of Security
- Loss Prevention Manager
- Protection Officer
- Safety Coordinator
- Safety Manager
- Security Guard
- Security Officer
- Security Supervisor
Transportation Cover Letter Examples
A cover letter is a vehicle to accelerate your job hunt. Take a look at our transportation application letter examples for ideas on how to impress hiring managers. They’ll help you arrive at your next job.
- Fleet Manager
- Freight Associate
- Passenger Service Agent
- Transportation Customer Service Advisor
- Transportation Manager
Cover letter examples for every scenario
Use the example letters below to find the right words or phrases to explain yourself in different professional scenarios.
When you are new to the workforce, a cover letter can help you fill in the work gaps of your resume by pointing out the skills, education and training you possess that make you an excellent fit for the role.
A cover letter is valuable if you have limited work or internship experience. It helps you draw a direct connection between the experience and education milestones you cite in your resume to the role to which you’re applying.
If you have an employment gap on your resume, a hiring manager will likely wonder why. In this case, a cover letter is perfect for explaining your situation. In the body of your cover letter, briefly mention why you stepped away from the workforce, such as because of a layoff, family emergency or to raise children. Keep it brief, though; the purpose of the cover letter is to focus on your credentials and what you bring to the table.
When you want to make a career change, your cover letter provides the space to explain your motivation and reasons for doing so. Remember, the letter should focus on what you’ll offer the employer, so keep your explanation for making the change brief. The bulk of your cover letter should highlight your relevant work experience and transferable skills .
A cover letter is critical when seeking a promotion or transfer with your current employer. This type of cover letter explains your motivation for applying for the promotion and why you believe you would excel in the new role.
If you have a connection who works at the company you’re applying to or is a colleague of the hiring manager, the first paragraph of your cover letter is where you should mention your connection. It will increase your chances of getting the job if someone with close knowledge told you about it.
If you’ve had your eye on a company you’d like to work for but haven’t seen any job openings, you can use your cover letter to explain that. Your introduction should explain what makes you passionate about working for this company. In addition, you should outline the skills and type of role you would like.
Have a lead on a great role that will open in the future? There’s no need to wait for it to be posted to the job board. View our sample letters of interest for a job you want, even if it hasn’t been posted yet. Learning to write this type of letter can set you apart from the competition.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. Its aim is to introduce yourself, outline your skills and experience, and explain why you would be the best fit for the role.
Cover letters shouldn’t be long, just a few paragraphs –– about 250 words or one double-spaced page.
They are a great way to convey your enthusiasm for the position or company and discuss what interests you about the role. Personalize your letter by directly addressing the hiring manager or recruiter.
What does a cover letter look like?
A cover letter looks like any other standard business letter: It consists of a recipient address, a greeting, two to three body paragraphs (the main text) and a signature. It’s three to four paragraphs long and should all fit on a single page.
While a cover letter will always consist of the same parts, you can change the appearance by changing details such as the font or adding a touch of color.
If you’re uncertain about what a cover letter looks like, it’s a good idea to use a cover letter template .
A template is just a preformatted document that takes care of the visual elements of your cover letter. That way, you can focus on the message of your cover letter instead of the design.
How important are cover letters when applying for jobs?
Cover letters are very important to apply for jobs. The only time that you shouldn’t include one is if the job post requests that you don’t or if the website you’re using to apply for a job does not allow you to attach one.
Even if it’s not requested, submitting a cover letter will help attract the attention of hiring managers. It’s a way to show that you have solid communication skills and expand on your resume’s key skills.
Since it’s more space to advertise yourself than a resume alone, it helps you better sell yourself. Cover letters are critical because you may be at a disadvantage for the job if you don’t take the time to include one, and other candidates do.
What are three good cover letter tips to remember?
Here are three helpful cover letter tips:
- Customize your cover letter for every role. Make sure you tailor your letter to the employer’s needs based on what it says in the job post. That way, it speaks to an employer’s needs and better appeals to them. Furthermore, many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS). ATS is software that scans your resume and cover letter for specific phrases. Targeting your cover letter to the job post helps ensure that you pass an ATS.
- Go deeper than what’s on the resume. Cover letters should elaborate on key details in your resume, not repeat them. For example, instead of just restating that you are organized, you could expand on this by including a line about how you used that skill to revamp the company filing system, which increased efficiency. Turn the lifeless details of your resume into an engaging story!
- Use numbers and metrics. Including numerical metrics helps quantify your skills to a potential employer. Saying something like, “Analyzed ways to reduce costs, enhance revenues and improve profits 33%,” will help you. That’s because numbers pop out and grab the attention of the person reading your cover letter. Furthermore, they add more detail to your abilities and performance level.
What should be in a well-written cover letter?
Our sample cover letters show you all the elements of a strong cover letter. At its most basic, a well-written cover letter is composed of five key sections:
- Header: The header of your cover letter contains your contact information. Include your telephone number, professional email address and links to your LinkedIn profile, personal website or online portfolio, if applicable.
- Greeting: Do your research to find the hiring manager’s name and address your cover letter to that person. If it’s not listed in the job ad, research LinkedIn or the company website to identify the right person. In a pinch, find the name of someone in the recruiting department and address your letter to that person. Avoid generic greetings, such as “To whom it may concern,” if possible.
- Opening paragraph: The opening paragraph of your letter should mention the name of the company and the job title to which you are applying. It should also briefly say why you are applying for the job. Then, you should cite the top skills that make you qualified for the role.
- Body paragraph(s): The body of your cover letter is its longest, most important section. It’s one or two paragraphs where you expand on the most relevant parts of your experience or education. Whereas in the opening paragraph, you tell the employer you’re right for the job, in these paragraphs, you should show them by using numbers or telling a story that illustrates your abilities. This is the section where you should use data and metrics in this section to detail to recruiters the impact your work has had and what you will bring to the table if hired.
- Closing paragraph: Your closing paragraph should briefly summarize your enthusiasm for the role and express hope for a future discussion. Then, thank the reader for their time. Sign off with a formal closing statement like “Regards” or “Sincerely” and your name.
Is it OK to have a two-page cover letter?
Cover letters should be focused and concise, so it’s not advised to go past one page. That’s the accepted standard practice for cover letters.
That’s because recruiters often get hundreds of applications for a single job opening and don’t have time to read long letters. That’s not to mention including a cover letter that is longer than other candidates’ may look sloppy and unprofessional.
How should I prepare my cover letter?
There are two ways to write a cover letter:
- You can do it the old-fashioned way, from scratch. That means formatting your page, brainstorming what to say, writing and then editing your document.
- Use a modern tool: Our Cover Letter Builder . It uses computer automation to make creating a resume much easier than doing it from scratch!That’s because it’s like having an expert guide you through the process. All you have to do is answer a series of easy-to-follow prompts.Best of all, our builder offers suggested prewritten text suggestions crafted by our team of career experts. They’re all targeted to the job title for which you’re applying.This extra help saves time compared to doing it the old-fashioned way. You can complete a cover letter in under 15 minutes!
See more on our FAQ Page
Create a Cover Letter with LiveCareer
As seen in *
*The names and logos of the companies referred to in this page are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with LiveCareer.
You control your data
We use cookies to tailor the experience of creating resumes and cover letters. For these reasons, we may share your usage data with third parties. You can find more information about how we use cookies on our Cookies Policy . If you would like to set your cookies preferences, click the Settings button below. To accept all cookies, click Accept.
Cookie settings
Click on the types of cookies below to learn more about them and customize your experience on our Site. You may freely give, refuse or withdraw your consent. Keep in mind that disabling cookies may affect your experience on the Site. For more information, please visit our Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy .
Choose type of cookies to accept
These cookies allow us to analyze our performance to offer you a better experience of creating resumes and cover letters. Analytics related cookies used on our Site are not used by Us for the purpose of identifying who you are or to send you targeted advertising. For example, we may use cookies/tracking technologies for analytics related purposes to determine the number of visitors to our Site, identify how visitors move around the Site and, in particular, which pages they visit. This allows us to improve our Site and our services.
These cookies give you access to a customized experience of our products. Personalization cookies are also used to deliver content, including ads, relevant to your interests on our Site and third-party sites based on how you interact with our advertisements or content as well as track the content you access (including video viewing). We may also collect password information from you when you log in, as well as computer and/or connection information. During some visits, we may use software tools to measure and collect session information, including page response times, download errors, time spent on certain pages and page interaction information.
These cookies are placed by third-party companies to deliver targeted content based on relevant topics that are of interest to you. And allow you to better interact with social media platforms such as Facebook.
These cookies are essential for the Site's performance and for you to be able to use its features. For example, essential cookies include: cookies dropped to provide the service, maintain your account, provide builder access, payment pages, create IDs for your documents and store your consents.
To see a detailed list of cookies, click here .
This site uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. To learn more visit our Privacy Policy
- English (AU)
- English (CA)
- English (UK)
- English (IN)
- Français (CA)
- Cover Letter
How to Write a Cover Letter for Any Job in 8 Steps (2023)
So you need a cover letter. Where do you start? How long should it be? Do yourself a favor: follow our guide on how to write the best cover letter the recruiter has ever seen.
As seen in:
Why do you even need to write a cover letter? Isn’t it extra work on top of an already stressful and time-consuming job hunt?
It’s work that pays off. A resume alone can show your achievements and qualifications, but can it explain in detail why you’re the absolute best for the job? Or show a glimpse of your personality? A good cover letter will do all that—while also defining your motivations and showing the employer you’re the asset they truly need to make their lives easier.
And that’s why this guide will show you:
- What a cover letter is and why you should write one.
- A sample cover letter to tweak, customize, and get more interviews.
- How to write a cover letter for a job—better than 9 out of 10 others.
- Cover letter writing tips and hacks to boost your chances of landing a job.
And if you experience writer’s block, let us write your cover letter for you. Tell us your name, job title, and years of experience to get an automatically generated cover letter in less than a minute . Pick from 18+ cover letter templates and match your resume!
Create your cover letter now
Sample cover letter for a resume—See more cover letter samples here.
Here’s what you’ll find in this article (jump right into the desired section):
- What Is a Cover Letter?
- What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter? (i.e., Why You Should Write One)
- Start With a Header
- Address the Reader
- Make a Proper Introduction
- Explain Why You’re the Perfect Fit
- Show Your Motivation to Join the Company
- Close With a Promise
- Stay Formal in the Closing Salutation
- Add a Postscript
- Frequently Asked Questions About Cover Letters
What Is a Cover Letter
A cover letter is an integral part of your job application, along with your resume. It’s designed to introduce you in a more personal way, complementing the contents of the resume/CV, expanding on relevant skills and achievements, and highlighting a selection of your most prominent accomplishments.
How long should a cover letter be ? Aim at 2–4 paragraphs within one page.
Not many achievements or relevant experience to talk about yet? Don’t worry—read our dedicated guides:
- How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience
- How to Write a Good Cover Letter for an Internship
What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter
A good cover letter persuades the employer your qualifications match their needs , plus:
- Shows you did research and take the job seriously.
- Proves you understand the challenges of the company.
- Reflects that your vision aligns with their goals.
- Presents how your skills and experience are a solution .
Ultimately, a good cover letter should be all about “ why should we hire you ” and “what’s in it for us.” The winning tactic here is focusing on them , not just on you, which will ultimately make you stand out from other applicants
And that’s why it’s worth spending time writing a solid cover letter.
Let’s find out how to do it.
How to Write a Cover Letter
You can start working on your cover letter right away as you follow our steps. Use this cover letter template, or explore more cover letter samples here (we have one for most jobs and industries):
By the way, you can upload your resume into our cover letter builder , and it will convert the info into the cover letter!
Let’s now move on to detailed instructions on how to write a successful cover letter:
1. Start With a Header
A professional cover letter opens with a header. Ideally, your cover letter header should be the same as in your resume (for consistency), so feel free to use the same template.
If you prefer to make the header of your cover letter from scratch, include the following contact information:
- Phone number
- Email address
Pro Tip: If you send your cover letter via email , don’t use your current work email address. It’s impolite to your current and potential employer.
2. Address the Reader
Once you’re done with the header, it’s time to mention the location and date of writing.
Then, address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager like so:
- Dear Katherine,
- Dear Ms. Smith,
- Dear Mr. McConnor,
According to studies , people respond actively to hearing/seeing their names—so use it in the cover letter salutation . Look for the hiring manager's name by:
- Checking the job description
- Going to the company’s LinkedIn page (to look for the person responsible for uploading the job offer)
If you can’t find the name by any means possible, opt for “ Dear Hiring Manager .” Avoid starting your cover letter with “ To Whom It May Concern ” like the plague. And if you’re not living in Victorian England, don’t start a cover letter with “ Dear Sir or Madam ,” either.
Follow this template to make sure you include everything:
[Location, MM/DD/YYYY]
[Hiring Manager’s or Recruiter’s Name]
[Hiring Manager’s or Recruiter’s Job Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Ms./Mr.] ...
Pro Tip: Wondering whether you should use the hiring manager’s first or last name? That depends on the company culture. Use the first name if you’re applying to a relaxed, casual company. For corporate cover letters, it’s safer to use the addressee's last name.
3. Make a Proper Introduction
Here’s the brutal truth: these few sentences at the beginning of your cover letter will determine whether the hiring manager will read on. So you need to start your cover letter in a way that attracts and holds the reader’s interest.
Here are several proven strategies for starting your cover letter :
- Highlight your achievements.
- Display your passion and enthusiasm.
- Drop names.
- Do all the above.
Have a look at these two sample cover letter opening paragraphs:
Why is the wrong example not delivering? Because it provides no value and details. The bottom line is: “I’ve already done this job, so I think I’d fit in.” And it’s just not enough for someone with more than eight years of experience to get the job.
4. Explain Why You’re the Perfect Fit
The second paragraph (main body) of your cover letter has a couple of jobs to perform:
- Give the hiring manager what they’re looking for.
- Show that you’ll satisfy the company’s specific needs.
Let’s look at the cover letter example from above to see how this could be done.
Remember Jane, our digital marketing manager candidate? The XYZ company she applies to needs (based on the job ad):
- A savvy digital marketing manager (1)
- Someone who will supervise the development of their new online portal (2)
Let’s look at how Jane managed to show that she’s both:
Your go-to strategy on what your cover letter should say in the main body:
- In the first sentence, prove you’re an expert in your field (refrain from bragging too much).
- The remaining part should be all about how your previous experiences will help your future employer press ahead with their plans.
Pro Tip: A cover letter also is a great place to explain gaps in your employment , if you have any.
5. Show Your Motivation to Join the Company
Your future employers have needs . If they’re willing to hire you, it’s because they think you’ll satisfy those needs. But they also want you to enjoy working with them. That way, they know you’re more likely to stay with them for longer.
The key to writing a perfect third paragraph of your cover letter is showing the hiring manager why you want this job, not just any job. That’s particularly important for entry-level candidates—enthusiasm and passion help prove you'll hit the ground running.
Have a look at these cover letter examples:
Above all, you want to avoid writing too much of a general cover letter . Generic doesn't win jobs; targeted does. (We’re, of course, assuming you tailored your resume to every job description you’re after, too.)
Job seekers impress employers by identifying transferable skills related to new positions. People often apply to new positions, so it’s likely you’ll not have the exact experience requested. But employers would rather know how your past experiences will inform future decisions. You were a hostess? Relate those management and organizational skills to the Executive Assistant position. Lauren Little Career Coach
6. Close With a Promise
How to make the best cover letter ending? By providing value.
The worst mistakes you can make in the final paragraph are:
- Coming off needy
- Focusing on how much you want the job, not on what you have to offer
- Repeating the clichéd phrase, “Thank you for your consideration and your time”
Instead, tell the hiring manager that you’re looking forward to meeting in person and discussing how your experience and knowledge can help your future employer fulfill their goals. Like here:
Trying to find exciting ways to end your cover letter, but to no avail? See how to write a convincing final paragraph here: How to Successfully Close a Cover Letter
7. Stay Formal in the Closing Salutation
Once you’ve written the body of your cover letter, you just need to put a formal closing at the very end. Write “Sincerely” and follow it with your full name. Adding your handwritten signature is optional (recommended for more formal cover letters).
If you’re not a fan of the well-worn “Sincerely,” feel free to use any of the following:
- Best regards,
- Kind regards,
- Respectfully yours,
- With best regards,
8. Add a Postscript
All of the above sections are must-haves in a good cover letter. But there’s one special trick you can use—the postscript. Why is it so important? Because it’s like a magnet for the hiring manager’s eyes that screams: “you cannot miss this information.”
Use the postscript to tell the hiring manager about something impressive about your career, even if it’s not strictly related to the job opening. And say you’d be happy to provide them with more details if they find it interesting.
Pro Tip: Looking to work for a company, but there aren't any open positions? Try writing a letter of interest for a job . It's a great way of uncovering vacancies that aren't even advertised.
9. Double-Check the Formatting
Before you hit send, make sure your cover letter formatting is intact.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to format your cover letter:
- Choose a legible cover letter font like Arial or Garamond, and keep it between 10 and 12 points in font size.
- Set even margins on all sides—1-inch margins should be perfect.
- Left-align all your contents.
- Use double cover letter spacing between paragraphs and 1–1.15 between lines.
- Title your cover letter by JobTitle—CoverLetter—YourName .
- Let your cover letter layout stay intact en route to the recruiter by saving the file in PDF.
The final step of writing your cover letter is, in fact, checking up on your resume to see if they both match the job requirements. Make sure you meet your hiring manager's expectations to the best of your ability.
Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here . Here's what it may look like:
See more cover letter templates and start writing .
Key Takeaway
For the final thought on how to write a great cover letter in 8 steps:
- Ensure your contact info in the header is correct.
- Address your hiring manager or recruiter personally.
- Attract their attention in the introduction.
- Use your experience to prove you're the exact match to the company's needs.
- Explain your motivation and fit for the position.
- Finish with a call to action and ask for a meeting.
- Be formal in the closing sentiment.
- Include a postscript.
Or use our cover letter builder to remember it all for you!
Thank you for taking the time to read my article. Do you have any questions about how to make a cover letter? Want to share an example of a cover letter? Give us a shout in the comments, and we’ll reply!
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Write a Cover Letter
What is a cover letter.
A cover letter is a formal letter that accompanies a CV or a resume . It includes a candidate’s introduction and an overview of the candidate’s qualifications , skills, and accomplishments most relevant to the job they’re pursuing. The cover letter also serves to express the candidate’s interest in the position and the company, as well as eagerness to contribute to the company’s success. It can also help to explain employment gaps .
What are the four parts of a cover letter?
- Cover letter header with your contact information such as full name, phone number, and email address
- Cover letter introduction with your hiring manager’s address and a hook that hypes the reader up so much that they can’t stop reading
- Cover letter body with a description of your significant accomplishments and strengths that you’ll bring to the table. (Beware! It’s not a copy of your resume.)
- Cover letter closing with a call to action and your signature
What should a cover letter say?
That you’re the one. That you want them, but that they want you, too. That you’re the solution to their problems. That’s what your cover letter should say .
And you can achieve all of that by having a number of things in your cover letter :
- action verbs and power words
- accomplishment statements
- organized cover letter layout , and
- enthusiastic but determined tone of voice
How to write a simple cover letter?
To make cover letter writing simple, you need to know a couple of things first:
- Create proper cover letter formatting before putting down words. You’ll ensure a correct structure and that you’ll fit onto one page with your cover letter.
- Find your hiring manager’s or recruiter’s name. By personalizing your cover letter, you have a higher chance of landing the gig.
- Create a list of job keywords you need to target with your application. Have a look at the job ad and mark those words which speak of necessary qualifications and qualities. Then use them in your paragraphs.
- Never lie in your job application .
- And lastly, do as extensive research about the company as possible. The intricate details about their mission, values, and vision will help you find an angle to write your cover letter.
How to write a cover letter for an internship?
A cover letter to an internship resume is a fantastic way to shoo away your competition. So don't hesitate and write a cover letter for an internship you’ve dreamt of for too long.
First and foremost, prove to your potential employer that you’re worth hiring, and that they’re a great company to work for. Do your research and don’t be shy to show what you’ve learned. Later use that knowledge to give away your connection to the company and its values. Show your transferable skillset and achievements, and let your determination and motivation do their magic.
How to write a cover letter for 2023?
In 2023, write your cover letter with these simple steps:
- Create a consistent look by mirroring a resume header to your template.
- Make a clean cover letter layout to keep enough whitespace on the page.
- Find an angle to write your cover letter—motivation to advance, shared values or mission statement, recent developments in the industry. Doing thorough research always helps.
- Start your cover letter with a relevant accomplishment that makes the reader want to carry on.
- Create a smooth transition from the hook through your strengths to motivation in 3 to 4 paragraphs, tops.
- Call your recruiter to action in the cover letter closing and ask for a meeting with you.
Is a cover letter necessary?
Almost half of the recruiters reject applications without a cover letter. Cover letters are a treat for those who still care to hire dedicated professionals. (And that’s you, right?)
It’s no surprise, though, that you’re questioning whether a cover letter is necessary . The entire job application process can be exhausting, so cutting down on documents you have to produce always seems like a good idea. But not this time.
Don't miss out on exclusive stories that will supercharge your career!
Get a weekly dose of inspiration delivered to your inbox
Similar articles
Do I Need a Cover Letter? Are Cover Letters Necessary in 2023
Do I need a cover letter? Is it important? What if the job offer doesn’t require a cover letter? Read this guide to find out all you need to know.
What Does the Best Cover Letter Look Like in 2023
Not sure what a cover should look like? Confused by all the contrasting guidelines? Here’s an article that will straighten out all your queries once and for all.
5 Short Cover Letter Examples for Any Job (+ Writing Guide)
Today’s hiring process is fast and furious. Don’t waste the recruiter’s time—see our 5 short cover letter examples and learn how to make every word count.
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Medicare is the United States’ federal healthcare program that covers all people over age 65, certain people younger than age 65 who are disabled and people who have permanent kidney failure.
The correct salutation on a cover letter should always include the word “Dear” followed by the contact person to whom the letter is addressed. This should be followed by either a comma or a colon, then a blank line and the first line of the...
Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.
Professional, job-winning cover letter examples for different fields. Learn why they stand out, and create your own with our killer cover
My name's Michael and I'd like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed their sales goals as a Sales Manager. I've worked with Company X, a fin-tech
Summary of Skills/Qualifications: This is the heart of your cover letter. It outlines your relevant experience and why you'd be a great fit for
As a creative and client -focused Interior Designer with excellent design, project management, and sales skills, I'm excited to submit my application for the
The best cover letter format · margins: adjusted between ½ and 1 inch to space information evenly on the page · line spacing: set to between 1 and
What should a great cover letter say? · Salutation: A professional greeting that addresses the hiring manager by name · Introduction: An attention
Cover letters are a critical factor in getting an interview. A well-written cover letter should expand upon the most vital details of your
Cover letter example ... Dear Hiring Manager,. I'm excited to be applying for the web developer position at [Company Name]. I've been programming
Choose from 250+ of the best cover letter examples for your industry and career stage. Get inspired by an expert written cover letter sample
Go deeper than what's on the resume. Cover letters should elaborate on key details in your resume, not repeat them. For example, instead of just restating that
Sample cover letter for a resume—See more cover letter samples here. One of our users, Nikos, had this to say: [I used] a nice template I found