cover letter employment services

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

Unhelpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"To Whom it May Concern,

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

Relevant Professional Experience

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

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

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

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

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

Helpful Cover Letter Experience:

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

Unhelpful Cover Letter Experience:

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

Useful Examples

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

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

Helpful Cover Letter Example:

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

Unhelpful Cover Letter Example:

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

Research and Company Knowledge

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

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

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

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

Helpful Cover Letter Research:

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

Unhelpful Cover Letter Research:

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

Clear Writing

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

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

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

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

Helpful Cover Letter Writing:

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

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

Unhelpful Cover Letter Writing:

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

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

Genuine Interest and Enthusiasm

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

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

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

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

Helpful Cover Letter Tone:

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

Unhelpful Cover Letter Tone:

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

Memorable Conclusion

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

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

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

Helpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

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

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

[Your Name]"

Unhelpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don't forget to share this post!

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A general cover letter example can serve as a great starting point for your application. If you’re feeling stuck, check out this copyable cover letter sample that you can copy and paste to modify for your own experience. You can also change the cover letter template at any time.

Dear Mr. North,

My experience of managing teams through change has taught me that if you put people first, everything else will fall into place. I led a team through a turbulent 18 months of downsizing at Labsworth, while a blistering period of growth at Pine Inc. provided an entirely different experience. No matter what the trajectory of the company is, there are lessons to be learned. Upon the completion of my MBA last year, I understood that I wanted to pursue a management role with an international dimension. I have never used my native Spanish in a business context and feel that your expansion into South America will allow me to employ my change management skills in a cultural setting that is familiar to me. In a start-up, it is important to employ people with both operational and commercial expertise. I have negotiated contracts worth $9.5m, improved delivery efficiencies by 12%, redesigned warehouse packing flows, overseen staff disputes, and driven profitability to industry-leading levels. In my last year at Pine, I spearheaded three initiatives to improve the net profit from 5.2% to 6.1%. Profits improve when everything is considered. I believe in letting my teams dictate the direction of their development. I have experience working with HR to design training modules, something that is particularly useful in a start-up. I enjoy the creativity and challenge of working out how to get the most out of a diverse set of professionals. 60% of my former team have enjoyed promotions over the past five years.

I cannot wait to find out more about your international expansion plans and hope that I am well-placed to assist.

Lara Fernandez

Our best sample cover letters

Check out our most popular cover letter samples below.

Internship cover letter example 

Use this Internship cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Internship positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Accounting cover letter example 

Use this Accounting cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Accounting positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Graduate cover letter example

You’re a newly minted college graduate. After years of hard work, you have your diploma in hand and are ready to leap into the workforce. Congratulations! It’s time to get your job applications in order, but it can be a daunting task. Relax! Our graduate cover letter example and writing guide will make it easier to apply for your 2024 dream job.

Administrative assistant cover letter example

Use this Administrative Assistant cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Administrative Assistant positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Teacher cover letter example

You know how to introduce yourself on parent-teacher nights, but how best to introduce yourself to the principal when you want a new job? The guide below will show you how to write an A+ teacher cover letter that makes the grade.

Nursing cover letter example

If you're empathetic, practical, and caring, the world of nursing is calling your name. Here's how to write a nurse cover letter that will turn the hiring manager's head.

Software engineer cover letter example

Use this Software Engineer cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Software Engineer positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Perfect cover letter structure

The perfect cover letter should have a clear and organized structure to make sure it highlights why you’re the right candidate for the job. Here’s what you should include to impress employers and increase your chances of landing the interview:

• Header: The cover letter header is the space at the top, or sometimes the side, of your cover letter that contains your name, contact information, and any relevant links. The header serves a vital role in identifying your cover letter and helping to create an attractive presentation.
• Greeting: The greeting of the cover letter is the way you address the person who will be reading it. We recommend using the hiring manager’s name whenever possible to establish a friendly, yet professional tone.
• Introduction: The introduction consists of the opening lines of your cover letter that serve to grab the hiring manager’s attention and encourage them to read the rest of your cover letter. The introduction should also include the company name and the role for which you are applying.
• Body (middle part): The body paragraphs are the middle part of your cover letter that give you the space and flexibility to discuss your accomplishments and key qualifications for the role.
• Conclusion & sign off: The conclusion is the final sentence of the cover letter that generally includes a call to action. This sentence expresses your enthusiasm for the job and politely encourages the hiring manager to schedule an interview.

You can also view our full guide on how to write a cover letter.

What makes a good cover letter example

A good cover letter example contains a combination of factors that work together to present you as the best possible candidate for the role. Remember that a cover letter sample is a starting point and should always be customized for your specific experience and the job you are applying to. In general, here are a few things to pay attention to that will make your cover letter stand out from the rest:

• The right template : An attractive cover letter is more likely to be noticed by employers. The best cover letter template is one that combines your own professional personality with the brand and image of the company you’re applying to. Our adaptable cover letter sample can serve as a reference when creating your header.
• Proper formatting : The right formatting makes your cover letter easier to read, and in turn, keeps the hiring manager interested for longer. Here are a few do’s and don’ts for great cover letter formatting .
• Keep a balance of white space to text
• Use paragraph breaks and proper punctuation
• Create an attractive header at the top of the page
• Adjust the margins to cram in more text
• Go overboard with flashy colors unless appropriate in your industry
• Forget to proofread for spelling and grammar mistakes
• A customized greeting : Your cover letter greeting should use the hiring manager’s name whenever possible. If you can’t find the name of a specific person, make sure to customize the greeting for the company or team.
• A professional email address : Your email address should be a combination of your first and last name (with numbers if you have a common name). Unprofessional email addresses are a big mistake.
• Clear structure : Even though a cover letter is one of the more freeform parts of your application, it should still appear organized. Use the sections of our cover letter example above as a model for your own.
• Detailed examples : The writing of your cover letter should give concrete examples of your skills, qualifications, and accomplishments. Make sure to use numbers and statistics whenever possible.

Cover letter examples FAQs

What to write in a cover letter.

Your cover letter is an opportunity to expand on the skills and experiences described in your resume. Instead of simply repeating what’s written there, make sure to add new details and examples that are relevant for the role and will encourage the hiring manager to contact you for an interview. 

How do you start a cover letter?

There are plenty of ways to start a cover letter , including with an anecdote, a statement about your skills or passion, or your connection to the company. Check out our adaptable cover letter samples for more ideas to get you started writing your own cover letter.

What are 3 things you should include in a cover letter?

Three things that should always be included in a cover letter are:

• Your name and contact information
• The hiring manager’s name
• The name of the company and the role you for which you’re applying

How long should a cover letter be?

Ideally, a cover letter's length should be between 250-400 words. A shorter cover letter may not be able to capture your skills, while a longer one may become tiresome to read. A cover letter should always fit on one page. See our adaptable cover letter examples for details.

What are common cover letter phrases?

Every cover letter should be unique but a few phrases you may find useful are:

• I am excited to apply to the role of (Job Title) at (Company Name).
• I am looking forward to the possibility of an interview.
• Feel free to contact me by phone or email at (Your Phone Number) or (Email Address).
• Sincerely, (Your Name)

What words should not be used in a cover letter?

We recommend avoiding “ To Whom It May Concern ” as it sounds impersonal and outdated. You should also avoid any language that sounds cold, arrogant, or entitled. Our cover letter samples can serve as an example of the right tone to use.

What does an employer look for in a cover letter?

Employers use cover letters to gauge whether you’re truly interested in the position and if you’ve understood the requirements. Make sure to consult the job description before writing your cover letter.

What is a simple example of a cover letter?

If you’re looking for a simple example of a cover letter, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some of our favorite simple cover letter samples:

Student cover letter example

Use this Student cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Student positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Driver cover letter example

A driver cover letter goes far deeper than the mechanics of the job. Share the personality that makes you great at what you do.

Customer service representative cover letter example

Use this Customer Service Representative cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Customer Service Representative positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Free professionally designed templates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples 

#1. career change cover letter example .

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

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

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

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example 

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

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

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

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

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

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

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

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

Here’s what this cover letter does right: 

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

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

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

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example 

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

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

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example 

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

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

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example 

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

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

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

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

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

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example 

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

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

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

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

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

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

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

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

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

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

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example 

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

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

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

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

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

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

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

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

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

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

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

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

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

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

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

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

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

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

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

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

40+ More Cover Letter Examples and Guides 

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

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

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

What is a Cover Letter? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

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

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

#1. Pick the right template

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

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

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

#2. Add your contact details on the header

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

Here’s what you want to include there:

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

Optionally, you can also include the following:

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

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

For example:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Google Search

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

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

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

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company's product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?

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

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

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

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

#8. Write a formal closing

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

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

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

#9. Proofread your cover letter

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

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

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

Cover Letter Writing Checklist 

Frequently Asked Questions

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

1. How do I write a simple cover letter? 

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

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

The three parts of a cover letter are: 

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

3. What makes a great cover letter?

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

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

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

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

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

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

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

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

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

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How to Apply for a Job Online: 10 Tips to Stand Out and Land an Interview

Applying for jobs online has become the norm. Generally, it's a win-win situation for both sides involved: Job seekers have a broad range of opportunities and the convenience of applying for multiple jobs from home, while employers can leverage automated systems to select the best candidates. However, the online application process can be daunting.

With numerous platforms to register, different requirements and application processes, and applicant tracking systems (ATSs) to dribble, many candidates experience a feeling described as job-hunting fatigue .

The bad news is that there's no way around it—online job applications have come to stay. The good news is that with a little strategy and organization, you can successfully navigate this process and stand out from the crowd of applicants.

In this article, we will teach you how to apply for a job online with 10 tips that not only will help you land an interview but also hopefully make your job hunting journey less stressful.

Looking for that perfect role? One of these open jobs on The Muse might just be the one »

How to apply for a job online: before, during, and after

From the start, applying for a job online requires four basic elements: a digitized version of your resume and cover letter , a professional email address, a good internet connection, and a handful of patience. Below we lay out essential tips for each step of the application process.

1. Write an ATS-friendly resume

Most companies use applicant tracking systems to filter candidates from online applications. This type of software quickly sorts and scans resumes to find the best “match” to a predetermined role. That's why writing an ATS-friendly resume is the first step in applying for jobs online—if your resume is not a match, it might not get selected. But how do you do it?

Simply put, your resume should be tailored to the specific role you're applying for and have keywords from the job description. Keywords in job descriptions include skills, experience, certifications, and education. For instance, “time management,” “HTML, C, and Java,” and “B.S in Computer Science” are often key requirements and terms used in software development job postings. (Here's how to read a job description the right way .)

Unless the employer asks for a creative resume, always use a simple and minimalist resume template with one column, standard fonts, and font sizes (for example, Arial 11), and no graph elements to make it easier to be scanned.

2. Have two versions of your resume

If you have a diverse professional background and are applying for different types of positions, you should have two versions of your resume, properly formatted for each role. This makes the online application process faster and easier, as you won't have to redo the whole thing at every new submission, only minor adjustments.

3. Keep your LinkedIn profile updated

Hiring managers often search for candidates on LinkedIn. Thus, your profile should always be updated with all the relevant experience, certifications, education, and skills for the job you intend to land. If you have a portfolio (and it's requested in your field) add the link to the “site” section.

Like your resume, your LinkedIn profile should also include some relevant keywords to make it easily found. For instance, if you're a data analyst experienced with sales, and that's exactly what you'd like to do in your next role, you could add “Data analyst | Sales chain expert” to your title.

Don't forget to update your picture and your header, if needed. The more clean and professional, the better. Remember that your profile is going to be the first impression the recruiter will have of you—and you want to make sure that is a good impression.

Optimize your LinkedIn profile with our 31 Best LinkedIn Profile Tips for Job Seekers

4. Have a basic cover letter draft ready

Some companies ask for cover letters, others don't. To save time, always have a basic cover letter drafted and update it to match the jobs you're applying for. As with resumes, if you're applying for two (or more) different roles, consider having two cover letter versions ready to go. (Take a look at these four cover letter examples in case you need some help.)

5. Use search engines to find open jobs

Most, if not all, companies post open positions on search engine websites—which include traditional job listing platforms and LinkedIn. You can leverage this by searching for specific keywords related to the job you want and selecting companies to submit an application.

On The Muse , you can filter more than 10,000 open positions by experience level, job category, company industry, location, and benefits. Similarly, LinkedIn allows you to filter job openings by date, company, level of experience, and work system (remote or on-site).

When you find the ideal opportunity and decide to apply, two things can happen: 1) You'll be redirected to the company's website to fill out your application there. 2) You'll be able to fill up your application on that same page. On LinkedIn, for example, companies can opt for a simplified application, in which you upload your resume on LinkedIn, answer a couple of questions, and send it.

6. Create accounts on job listing websites

Speaking of job listing websites, creating an account for the ones most popular or commonly used by companies can significantly speed up your application process. Keep in mind that sooner or later you'll have to do it, so you might anticipate the task.

Usually, those websites have a profile page—similar to LinkedIn—that you have to fill up with the following information:

• Certifications
• Awards and recognitions

Some will allow you to register with LinkedIn and autofill the information, which facilitates the process. (Remember to check if the data exportation was successful and every box is filled correctly). However, others don't have this option and you’ll have to do it manually. To avoid spelling and grammar mistakes or missing information, consider taking a day when you have free time to focus instead of rushing to finish your registration.

7. Use the career section of companies sites

Company websites are also places to find and apply for jobs online. If there is any specific company that you'd really like to work for, check their website and search for a “Careers” page. If you find one, it's likely that you have two options: 1) Submitting your resume to their tablet database or 2) Apply for a specific job if there are any openings.

In both cases, you'll either have to fill up your work history, education, and personal information manually or use the autofill through LinkedIn or your resume file. Keep in mind that every company site is different, so these options may not always be available in all the sites you visit.

In case you have to manually add your information, a trick that can speed up the process is copying and pasting from your resume. Just remember to make the necessary changes and adapt to each specific job position.

8. Be prepared to do employment tests

Online applications in job listing sites often come with employment tests, also known as talent assessment tests, that you have to complete as part of your candidacy. Not doing the tests, when they're mandatory, will automatically disqualify you.

Usually, these tests assess your personality and skills. Some will also evaluate emotional intelligence, cognition, and work style—it really depends on your industry, field, and role. Needless to say, scoring high on employment tests is crucial to be considered by the hiring manager—so you want to take them seriously and complete them calmly.

Although this seems a daunting task to do, there's a plus side: some companies use the same or similar tests, which allows you to repurpose one that's already saved on the platform or know exactly what kind of answers you'll have to respond.

9. Have an application email script drafted

Some companies, especially small ones, don't have built-in software to handle online job applications and would rather have candidates send their resumes via email. For this reason, consider having an email script drafted to send along with your resume and cover letter, if requested.

Your message should be professional, and straight to the point. A brief salutation, a sentence expressing your interest in the role, one to two sentences about your resume (and cover letter), a closing sentence, and your signature is enough. For instance, you could say something along the lines of:

Dear [Name],

My name is [Your Name] and I'm excited to apply for the Software Developer position listed on LinkedIn.

As requested, I've attached my resume and cover letter . Please let me know if I can provide any extra information.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[email protected]

555 123 4567

linkedin.com/in/name

10. Track your applications and follow up

While it’s not mandatory, ideally you should track and follow up with your applications. Generally, one to two weeks is considered a reasonable time to reach out to check the status of your application.

Keeping track of your applications also prevents you from applying for the same company multiple times (don’t even bother—it won't get you the job) and also helps you remember which job a recruiter is referring to when they reach out to you. (Here's how to follow up on a job application .)

Your tracking system can be as simple as a notebook with detailed notes, or as formatted as a spreadsheet tracking the job opportunity, hiring manager’s contact info, dates you sent the resume and followed up, and any response you’ve received so far.

Extra advice on online applications

Applying for a job online is as formal as handing your resume in person. Thus, you should take every detail of this process seriously, including the following:

• Email address : Use a professional email address, both to register on job listing sites and to send emails to recruiters. Avoid playful or overly informal usernames and opt for a version with your name and last name.
• Resume file format : Generally, it's best to submit your resume as .doc or .docx, however, some employers may ask for a PDF file. You can have both versions saved, for convenience, or convert the file format when necessary.
• Your resume file name : Always save your resume file with your name and last name. For instance, annajonesresume.doc. This makes it easier to locate, both for you and the hiring manager. Avoid generic names such as “resume” or random numbers.
• Follow the employer's directions : If the job posting requires specific information or documents (for instance, a portfolio or a cover letter), give what is requested. If they don't, then don't. Following the recruiter's instructions is crucial to successfully applying for jobs online—everything they want from you is going to be written in the posting.

Bottom line

Online job applications can be confusing at first, but they tend to be simpler than most people expect. You need a tailored and ATS-friendly resume, a cover letter draft in case the employer asks for one, and a dose of patience to fill up your personal information, education, and work history on job listing sites.

Paying close attention to the job description is crucial to know exactly what the employer is looking for and what steps should be taken to successfully submit your application. If you feel like you need extra help, even after reading our tips, consider working with a career coach .

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• How to Make an ATS-Friendly...

How to Make an ATS-Friendly Resume - Tips for ATS 2024

15 min read · Updated on May 21, 2024

Here's everything you need to know about applicant tracking systems

We've all been there: you find the perfect job opportunity, customize your resume and cover letter , submit your application to a job listing online, and then pray it will pass the infamous six-second resume review test. Unfortunately, more often than not, your job application is lost in the applicant tracking system - and you're left wondering why the employer or hiring manager wasn't that into you.

What many job seekers don't realize is that 75% of job applications don't get seen by human eyes. Before your resume reaches the hands of a live person, it must often pass muster with what's known as an applicant tracking system.

Below is everything you need to know about applicant tracking systems - and what best practices you can use to optimize your resume to ensure it gets selected.

What is an applicant tracking system?

An applicant tracking system - or ATS, for short - is a type of resume scanning software used by recruiters and employers during the hiring process to collect, sort, scan, and rank the job applications they receive for their open positions.

Why do companies use ATS?

There are some very good reasons why today's companies are so heavily reliant on ATS to narrow their job candidate search. The modern hiring process is more complex than ever before - and not just because there are so many more workers applying for a position. The reality is that most companies lack the resources and time needed to search through every resume submission they receive. By using automated systems, they can free up those resources to focus on their core company mission.

But there are also legal compliance issues that need to be considered. Employment law - and especially laws prohibiting various kinds of discrimination in hiring - need to be followed with care. Many employers understand that one of the best ways to reduce potential bias in the initial stages of any hiring process is to allow unbiased machines to handle some of the work.

The bottom line is that ATS resume scanners provide companies with an automated way to narrow any list of candidates to only those who meet the position's posted qualifications. And it does that in a way that avoids potential discrimination by ignoring characteristics like race, gender, and age. As a result, companies enjoy savings in both time and cost, while optimizing their compliance with existing employment laws.

How do applicant tracking systems work?

The ATS parses a resume's content into categories and then scans it for specific and relevant keywords to determine if the job application should be passed along to the recruiter. Its job is to essentially weed out unqualified applicants, so the recruiter can devote his or her time to evaluating the candidates who are more likely to be a match for the position. In other words, the ATS is apt to put the least-qualified candidates to the bottom of the pile, rather than identify the applicants who are the best fit.

Unfortunately, that means if a resume template is not written and formatted with the applicant tracking system in mind, a qualified candidate can be easily passed over.

How to write an ATS resume

To determine what makes an ATS-friendly resume, TopResume analyzed 1,000 resumes from professionals across the US with at least eight years of experience, to identify the most common resume mistakes that will cause an applicant tracking system to toss an application. The infographic below highlights some of the costliest mistakes that make a resume incompatible with an ATS scan.

If you want to make sure your resume is compliant with an ATS, follow the tips below to write and use an ATS-optimized resume.

Select the right file type for your resume

Contrary to popular belief, a PDF is not the most ATS-friendly file type. While PDF files are the best at preserving the design and format of your resume template, it's not compatible with all ATS software. If you're asked to upload your resume to an applicant tracking system and “PDF” is listed among the file formats you can use, feel free to send a PDF version of your resume. However, if the system does not specify which file types are compatible, play it safe and stick to a Word document in .doc or .docx. Plain-text files are also incredibly ATS-friendly for resumes, but they limit your formatting options and can look unprofessional. 

Since the best resume templates are written with two audiences in mind - the ATS pre-screening your application and the live human in HR who will review your resume content - we recommend using a Word document instead of a plain-text file for your resume file type. This will provide more creative freedom to write an ATS resume that will appeal to a recruiter or hiring manager.

Related: How to Avoid the Top 10 Resume Mistakes That Make Recruiters Cringe

Don't put important details in the header or footer

Not all applicant tracking systems are able to properly read and parse information stored in the header and footer sections of a Word document. In fact, our study confirmed the ATS was unable to identify a portion of the job seeker's contact information 25% of the time. Avoid this same fate by placing important contact details (such as your name, phone number, and email address) outside the header or footer of your resume. 

Optimize your resume with keywords

One of the best ways to ensure your resume is compatible with an ATS is to optimize your resume with the right keywords (also known as keyword optimization). Unlike a “buzzword,” which is typically considered to be a fluffy term such as “proactive” or “self-starter,” keywords represent the soft skills and hard skills you possess and the expertise you've acquired over the years that qualify you for your target job.

If you're unsure which resume keywords should be used, start by collecting three to five job descriptions that represent the type of position you're pursuing. Then, copy and paste the job description into a free word and phrase frequency tool like Online-Utility.org's Text Analyzer , to identify the terms that are regularly used throughout your desired positions. If you possess these skills or qualifications from the job posting, incorporate these terms into your resume.

You should also pay careful attention to the job posting and any description of the position contained in that post. Identify any listed skill requirements, as well as desired experience and educational qualifications. These are likely to be included in any ATS resume scan too, so you'll want to ensure that these keywords can be found within your resume.

When it comes to creating an ATS-optimized resume, you need to think about the frequency, as well as the placement of these relevant keywords throughout your resume. Some applicant tracking systems will determine the strength of your skills based on the number of times a term shows up in your resume (aim to add the term two to three times throughout your resume), whereas others assign an estimated amount of experience for a particular skill based on its placement within the resume. To make your resume truly compatible with any ATS, you'll want to optimize it with both systems in mind.

First, create a “Core Competencies” or “Areas of Expertise” section below your resume professional summary that lists your strongest hard skills and soft skills. If there's a common abbreviation for one of your proficiencies, such as “SEO” (for search engine optimization), include both versions in your resume. Then, pepper these same terms into your “ Work Experience ” or “ Education ” sections, where appropriate, to demonstrate when you leveraged that skill.

Related: Why Soft and Hard Skills Are So Important for Your Resume

Some applicant tracking systems will associate the length of experience for a skill, based on how long you held the job where that skill was leveraged. For instance, if you worked at your past job for five years and you mention that you handled SEO for the company, the ATS will assume you have five years' worth of SEO experience from that job. If a skill is listed on its own - such as within the professional summary or a core competencies section - then the ATS scan will assign a few months' experience for that skill. This is why it's incredibly important to reiterate your skills throughout your entire resume, rather than just in a skill section at the top.

Include a resume headline

Make sure that your resume also includes a headline . This one-line heading should be located right after your contact information and before your summary statement. Companies that use an ATS to screen resumes will typically include the job title in their ATS assessment criteria. To create an ATS-friendly headline, simply:

Identify the job title you're applying for. It should be in the job posting or job description. For example, let's say that you're applying for a position as a Marketing Director. Those two words are keywords that need to be included in your headline.

Identify other key requirements that you may be able to highlight in your headline. It could be something as simple as a requirement that candidates have at least five years of experience in managing marketing teams. Take note of that job qualification since you may want to incorporate it into your headline too.

Create a headline that includes the job title and some descriptive language that helps to immediately identify you as a qualified candidate. If you use our example keywords, your headline might look something like this:

Dynamic Marketing Director with over 5 years of experience in client success

Avoid images, charts, and other graphics

While these may look nice to the human eye, resumes with embedded images become a garbled mess after they pass through the applicant tracking system. For instance, if you insert an image or chart to showcase your key skills, the ATS resume scanner will be unable to read it. If you use a cool graphic to brand your name on your resume, this piece of information will be lost on the applicant tracking system.

Stick to simple bullet points

When used appropriately, bullet points are a great method for highlighting accomplishments and qualifications on a resume. However, if you choose an elaborate symbol for your bullets, your important selling points could get scrambled. Avoid using intricate characters when creating a bulleted list on your ATS-compliant resume. Stick to the simplest options, such as a solid circle, open circle, or square, to ensure your bullet points enhance your resume, rather than make it incompatible with an ATS.

Use a clean resume design with a clear hierarchy

When it comes to your ATS-friendly resume design, less is more. Not only do complex resume designs or unusual formats confuse most applicant tracking systems, but they also annoy recruiters who are accustomed to quickly scanning a resume for specific information that they expect to find in specific areas within the document.

Click on the following link for more tips on how to write a resume that will beat the ATS .

How to create an ATS-friendly resume format

If you want your resume to perform well in an ATS scan , stick to a standard resume format such as a reverse chronological or  hybrid resume . These resume formats use a professional summary section at the top of the document to outline your key skills and qualifications and combine it with a chronological “Work History” section that explains how you've leveraged these qualities to produce results for your employers.

Most applicant tracking systems do a better job at reading and interpreting a reverse chronological or hybrid format, because they rely on chronological data to parse your resume.

As a result, it's in your best interest to avoid a functional resume format at all costs - where the focus is placed on your abilities, rather than a chronological work history.

Make sure your resume sections are easily identifiable

You'll notice that we've mentioned different resume sections throughout this post. There's a good reason for that, of course. Resumes are not like typical prose documents. If your resume is just one long story with different kinds of information spread across one or two pages like an essay, it won't perform well. And, even if it did, no human hiring manager would bother to read it.

To ensure that key details can be found by both the ATS and a hiring manager, separate that information into distinct sections. This helps to provide structure to your ATS resume and makes it easier for machines and humans to quickly scan for the information they want to see. Are you wondering why we said “scan” instead of “ read?”  It's simple: even hiring managers don't bother to read your resume from the first word to the last. Instead, they scan it until they see what they're looking for - and then read that part.

Below is a simple structure that you can use to ensure that your resume satisfies the needs of both the ATS and any hiring manager who sees it:

Contact information : This section goes right at the top of your resume, but not in the header. Remember, ATS systems are not adept at reading information in that area of your resume. Include vital details like your name, location, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn URL. This section doesn't need a label.

Resume headline : We covered the resume headline earlier in the post, so you can find some tips on how to create this attention-grabbing section there. Like the contact section, this requires no label.

Summary statement : This section should be a three to five-sentence elevator pitch designed to capture any hiring manager's attention. You can include keywords in this paragraph that highlight your most vital skills, experiences, and measurable achievements that showcase your potential value to the employer. 

Core competencies: This is where you list the skills that show you're qualified for the position. Depending on the job you're seeking, your skill section may be weighted toward either soft or hard skills - but you should try to include some mix of both. You can label this section “Skills” or “Core Competencies” to ensure that both humans and machines can readily identify its content and importance.

Professional history : Otherwise known as work experience, this labeled section should include your relevant work history dating back 10-15 years. Make sure that you start by listing your most recent position and then list the others in reverse order. For each position you've held, include the company name, job title, dates of employment, and several bullet point examples that demonstrate your achievements in each role.

Education : This section also needs to be labeled and should include the name of the college you attended, the years of attendance, your course of study and degree, and any relevant coursework that you need to show to demonstrate your qualifications. You can also include listings for certifications, continuing education, and other relevant training.

How to run an ATS resume test for compliance

There are two easy ways to determine if your resume is compatible with an applicant tracking system during the job search.

Convert your resume to a plain-text file

Copy the entire content from your ATS-friendly resume, paste it into a plain-text document, and review the results. If the plain-text version is missing details from your original resume, has characters saved incorrectly, or looks disorganized (i.e., the heading for your “Education” section appears in the middle of your work experience), then assume your resume will require editing before it's ATS compliant.

Request a free ATS scan for your resume

Here at TopResume, we offer career advice and a free ATS resume scan as part of our free resume review. When you request a free resume review from TopResume, you'll receive feedback on your resume's content, as well as its ATS compatibility.

The first half of the review offers an objective look at what your resume is doing well and where it's falling short, from both an information and design perspective. The second half of the free resume review shows you exactly what information an ATS will pull from your resume, what information it will be unable to identify and retrieve (such as your name, contact information, most recent job title, and most recent employer), and what top skills and keywords your resume currently ranks for.

If the ATS is unable to identify this important information or thinks you're a fit for a job when you're not, then your ATS resume will need to be further optimized before it passes the ATS compatibility test. Fortunately, our experienced team of resume experts has the expertise you need to help with that optimization and ensure that your resume has what it takes to perform well in an ATS scan.

Click on the following link to watch our latest #OfficeHours video on how to write an ATS resume to beat the bots .

Don't let the ATS stop you from landing your dream job. Get an ATS-proof resume today . This article was originally written by Amanda Augustine and has been updated by Ken Chase. 

Recommended reading:

How to Customize Your Resume for Each Job Application

5 Signs It's Time to Hire a Professional Resume Writer

Words and Phrases to Remove from Your Resume Right Away

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Business | Working Strategies: Are we done with cover…

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Business | working strategies: are we done with cover letters.

If you’re looking for a way to become confused in record time, I have you covered. With a cover letter, that is. Here’s what you do: Type into your favorite web browser, “Are cover letters necessary” and get ready for that head-spinning sensation that comes with multiple conflicting answers.

Or, skip the confusion and just believe me: Yes, cover letters are necessary.

Despite the surveys stating many employers ignore them, or that fewer than half of candidates send them (which I find head-spinning in itself), or even the polls showing that recent hires were the ones who did send letters … despite all the information out there, I default to a simple tie-breaking question: Why wouldn’t you write a letter?

It’s not as if recruiters are going to throw out your application because you included a letter. They’ll just decline to read it. But what if someone does want a letter and you didn’t use one? That’s not a chance you’ll get back.

So send a letter and stop worrying about whether you “need” to. Do it because some people want a letter and you don’t know which ones they are. It’s cheap insurance, and if you set up a system, it doesn’t need to take very long.

If you’re interested in such a system, you won’t be surprised to learn it involves templates. You just need a few models that you can modify for different purposes. Here are three that I commonly use as starting points.

• Template one simply acknowledges that you’re sending materials. It would usually be sent in the body of your email:

I have attached my résumé in response to your posting for a ____. Thank you in advance for considering me; I look forward to the opportunity to discuss this position in the near future.

• Template two is more detailed and more customized to the position. This model is best used for situations in which you fit requested criteria fairly well, eliminating the need to explain very much.

As a ______ with __ years of experience, I was very excited to see your posting for a ___. In reviewing your needs, I see that my skills match the required criteria. I also have a number of additional strengths and work experiences that would be helpful.

My résumé contains more details, but here are the highlights of what I could offer in this role:

(Include four or five bullets with short sentences or phrases noting your main assets for the job. You can also incorporate some of the key words from their posting – but don’t copy and paste whole phrases.)

I would be interested in discussing this opportunity further, and look forward to talking with you soon.

• Template three is nearly entirely customized, which makes the use of boilerplate paragraphs an important time-saver. Despite this apparent oxymoron, you’ll see that customizing boilerplates is usually easier than writing a fresh letter each time.

As an admirer of XYZ Corporation (any warm opening can be used, including a reference to a mutual contact, or perhaps acknowledgement of the company’s success) I’m delighted to respond to your posting for a ___ ( or) I’m interested in talking with you about current or future needs for a ____.)

With in-depth experience as a ____ and additional strengths in ___ and ___, I can make solid contributions in this position. As you’ll see from my résumé, my background includes ____, which has brought me in frequent contact with your company (or some other information that connects you to the company or field) . My contacts in the field and my understanding of related regulations (or whatever your key strengths are) will let me make an immediate contribution in your department.

I’m especially proud of my ability to ____. For example, in my current role, I… (drop in a boilerplate story or a few sentences with metrics or other successes from current or past work).

XYZ Corporation is an excellent organization (saying something positive about the company makes a nice conclusion) and I would be very interested in discussing how I could add to your continued success. I look forward to talking with you soon.

Amy Lindgren owns a career consulting firm in St. Paul. She can be reached at [email protected] .

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Secret Service director steps down, heeding calls to quit after Trump assassination attempt

WASHINGTON — U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has stepped down after widespread calls from lawmakers for her to resign following the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, three sources told NBC News.

In her resignation letter, obtained from a senior official who received it, Cheatle wrote that the "scrutiny over the last week has been intense and will continue to remain as our operational tempo increases." She added she takes "full responsibility for the security lapse."

"In light of recent events, it is with a heavy heart that I have made the difficult decision to step down as your Director," wrote Cheatle, who had led the agency since September 2022.

It's unclear when her last day will be.

In a statement, President Joe Biden thanked Cheatle for her service, saying he will appoint her successor to lead the Secret Service "soon." After the assassination attempt on Trump, Biden ordered an independent review to assess what happened and said Tuesday that he looks forward to reading its conclusions.

"We all know what happened that day can never happen again," Biden said.

In response to the news of her resignation, Trump wrote on Truth Social: "The Biden/Harris Administration did not properly protect me, and I was forced to take a bullet for Democracy. IT WAS MY GREAT HONOR TO DO SO!"

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., said in a statement Tuesday that Cheatle "instilled no confidence" when she faced questions Monday from angry lawmakers from both parties who were exasperated over the Secret Service’s failure to protect Trump.

“I’m not going to get into specifics of the day,” Cheatle testified, citing an ongoing investigation. “There was a plan in place to provide overwatch, and we are still looking into responsibilities.”

Both Democratic and Republican committee members said she should resign over her "incompetence" and her "lame excuses."

“You’re full of s--- today!” Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., said, slamming Cheatle for dodging questions and being “completely dishonest” about her cooperation with the committee.

Her responses didn’t satisfy the leaders of the House Oversight Committee, which held the hearing Monday and had subpoenaed her.

“Today, you failed to provide answers to basic questions regarding that stunning operational failure and to reassure the American people that the Secret Service has learned its lessons and begun to correct its systemic blunders and failures,” Comer and ranking member Jamie Raskin, D-Md., wrote in a joint letter to Cheatle hours after the hearing.

The two members said that the committee and the American people “demand serious institutional accountability and transparency that you are not providing,” especially during a presidential election year.

“We call on you to resign as Director as a first step to allowing new leadership to swiftly address this crisis and rebuild the trust of a truly concerned Congress and the American people,” they wrote.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and several other top Republicans, including House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., and Senate Republican Conference Chairman John Barrasso, R-Wyo., also called on Cheatle to resign .

Before her resignation Tuesday, several Republican lawmakers said that they planned to file impeachment articles against Cheatle.

“She needs to go,” Barrasso, told NBC News’ Hallie Jackson after a Senate briefing on the shooting last week.

In an interview with ABC News last week, Cheatle said the “buck” stopped with her.

The agency was conducting a review of the incident, she said, and she did not have all the details about what happened. But Cheatle said there had been a “very short” period between when the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was reported as potentially suspicious and when he began shooting from a rooftop at the July 13 rally.

After a Senate briefing Wednesday on the assassination attempt, two sources familiar with the proceedings said that window of time was 62 minutes .

The sources also said Secret Service agents spotted Crooks on a rooftop 10 minutes before Trump took the stage , and 20 minutes elapsed before he opened fire.

Trump has said he was shot in the upper part of his right ear. A former fire official, Corey Comperatore , died in the shooting. Two others were injured and hospitalized, and their conditions have improved.

Julia Ainsley is the homeland security correspondent for NBC News and covers the Department of Homeland Security for the NBC News Investigative Unit.

Sarah Fitzpatrick is a senior investigative producer and story editor for NBC News. She previously worked for CBS News and "60 Minutes." 

Rebecca Shabad is a politics reporter for NBC News based in Washington.

Tim Stelloh is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.

Hey job seekers — hiring managers are onto your ChatGPT-written applications

• Job seekers using AI-generated applications face detection and potential rejection by employers.
• Companies note an uptick in AI-written job applications, complicating the hiring process.
• Experts suggest customizing AI assistance to stand out — using it as an editor instead of a writer.

If you're hoping to use ChatGPT to get a leg up on job applications, you might just be shooting yourself in the foot.

While companies have been leveraging AI to automatically weed out résumés, job seekers have begun responding with chatbot-generated applications to keep up — and employers are noticing.

Jakob Knutzen, cofounder and CEO of video collaboration platform Butter, said he received around 450 applicants for a product designer position. But Knutzen told Business Insider he was able to detect what he believed was ample usage of ChatGPT-written responses to the form's three questions.

"The formulations were incredibly similar and used a bunch of phrases that I would never imagine people using," he said.

When Knutzen took his concerns to a LinkedIn post , other employers reported seeing a similar trend of a spike in AI-written job applications.

Christina Hallman, who is head of demand generation for cybersecurity risk management company Outpost24, recently said she received over 250 applications for two open positions.

She told Insider she estimated that 45% of the optional cover letters were AI-generated.

"I went over to ChatGPT and I put in our live job posting, and I said give me a cover letter," Hallman told Insider. "And it spit out almost the identical template that I was receiving time and time again."

She said that it didn't necessarily eliminate the candidate from the running, but when it came down to choosing between an application that used a ChatGPT-generated cover letter and a similar one that didn't, the latter would be hired.

"It just ended being like, well, it's not helping you," she said. "It's better to have just not attached anything."

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Hallman, who said she has a decade of hiring experience, said that she's seen a noticeable increase in the use of AI in applicants over the past one to two years.

And it's likely going to keep climbing as ChatGPT and other AI tools become more accessible — and popular.

A 2023 study conducted by iCIMS found that 47% of college seniors were interested in using ChatGPT or other AI bots to write their résumé and cover letters, while 25% of Gen Z who were surveyed said they already have.

Some recruiters have considered creating "AI-proof" questions, such as requiring an introductory Loom video. Others have even set chatbot traps by sneaking hidden instructions for LLMs that show up in the applicant's response.

Although Knutzen said his company did contemplate using videos or other questions that could cut down on the likelihood of AI-generated responses, they decided against it due to concerns that the "barrier for entry would be too high."

However, some comments under Knutzen's post said that job seekers were simply leveling the playing field with recruiters — especially with an increasingly tough job market .

One person wrote, "When companies use automated systems to decide who is worthy of an interview, what do they expect applicants to do?"

Over 97% of Fortune 500 companies use automated hiring systems , according to a 2023 study conducted by Jobscan.

"I think it's more of a frustration with the application process overall," Knutzen said. "I don't think that companies are respecting the process for applicants."

Knutzen, who said his company does not use ATSs, points out that many companies tend to ghost candidates or send an automated rejection, which can discourage job seekers.

"If you don't get a lot of feedback on the applications that you send, then you begin thinking that they don't matter," he said. "If the company doesn't think it's important, why should I?"

However, Knutzen stresses that the issue isn't necessarily the use of AI but rather using it "as a writer and not an editor."

Hallman said she "fully expects" people to use AI in their jobs and applications to save time, but she warns candidates against relying on it blindly.

"It's not the use of AI that's the problem, it's the lack of customization that is coupled with it," Hallman said. "If you're going to use AI, I think you need to use it really intentionally."

She said that applicants using the same chatbot-written responses become lost among their identical competitors.

"You need to have that human checkpoint," Hallman said. "Or it will just be a sea of everyone spitting out the same thing."

Watch: Volkswagen is using AI to speed up and scale marketing, while also integrating ChatGPT into its vehicles, says CMO Susanne Franz

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