format for cover letter 2023

How to Format a Cover Letter That’ll Get You an Interview

Do you ever feel like your resume couldn’t possibly tell the whole story of who you are and why a company should hire you? That’s because it doesn’t. But a strong, well-written, and correctly formatted cover letter helps fill in some of the gaps.

“Cover letters are worth the time ,” says Muse coach Jennifer Smith. “They provide an opportunity to expand on key points from your resume, show off your personality, and solidify your interest.” Perhaps most importantly, “They show an employer you put the time and energy into applying.” And—luckily—they don’t need to be difficult to write.

Most cover letters have a similar format that make them much easier to write than you might think. And we’ve laid it out exactly—so you can get that application in already.

Read More: Cover Letters Are Hard to Write—But These Templates Make It a Breeze

How to format and organize your cover letter content

Here’s the format most hiring professionals that read your cover letter will be looking for:

Your heading goes at the top of the page and contains your contact info as well as some other basics that a hiring manager or recruiter might use to learn more about you once they’ve read your cover letter.

So this means:

• Phone number
• LinkedIn profile link (if you have one)
• Pronouns (if you’re comfortable including them)
• Personal website or portfolio link (optional)
• Relevant and professional social media profiles (optional)

Nowadays it’s very uncommon, but if you’re asked to mail a paper cover letter, you would also include in your heading the company’s information:

• Hiring manager’s name (or whomever the letter is addressed to)
• Company name
• Company street address
• Company city, state, zip code

But you’d be more likely to send your cover letter in the body of an email than by snail mail if you’re not applying through an online system. In this case, your heading info would go after your name at the end.

Start your salutation with “Hello,” “Dear,” or “Hi” for more casual companies.

Then, you’ll usually address your cover letter to the hiring manager. Alternatively, Muse coach Leto Papadopoulos recommends job seekers “open the letter with ‘Dear Hiring Team’ because even if you can uncover the name of the hiring manager, they are usually not the first to read the cover letter,” she says, and “I like to acknowledge the recruiting team!”

You can also address your cover letter to the team you’d be joining or “[Position] Hiring Manager.” But you should never start your cover letter with “ To Whom It May Concern .”

Read More: The 3 Rules of Addressing Your Cover Letter

Your introduction should be one paragraph long, include the name of the position you’re applying to, and express why you’re applying and what excites you about the opportunity. But most importantly, you want to grab your reader. You can even “kick off with a brief but attention-grabbing anecdote,” Smith says. “Show off your personality.”

Read More: 30 Genius Cover Letter Openers Recruiters Will LOVE

Body paragraphs

Write two to three body paragraphs that sell you as a candidate. “Show, don’t tell,” Smith says. “Craft a narrative about how your experience led you to apply for the job you want.” Instead of regurgitating your resume, look at the job description and pull out a few skills you specialize in that the company is looking for. Then, elaborate on them by bringing up examples of how you’ve used these skills to help your past employers (and by extension will give the reader a preview of how you’ll help them).

Wrap everything up with your conclusion paragraph. Reiterate your interest in the company and your most important qualifications. Then, “Close with a statement about contributing your skills and experiences to the success of the company in the position you’re applying for,” Smith says.

Use a professional sign-off like “Sincerely,” “Respectfully,” or “Thank you for your consideration,” then add your first and last name.

If you’re sending your cover letter in the body of an email, add any info you would’ve included in your heading below your name.

Example cover letter

Check out this cover letter example, which follows the above cover letter format:

Curtis Chen [email protected] | 999-999-9999 linkedin.com/in/curtis-chen | he/him | Baltimore, MD

Hello Arianna,

When I saw the posting for the UX designer position at CloudCo, I was immediately drawn to it because of your unique approach to online storage. CloudCo is the only player in the space right now that has promised to keep their personal storage tiers under $10—and instead pass on the cost to the larger clients. I’d love to bring my dual experience as a front-end engineer and a UX researcher to make your interface more intuitive and keep individual customers renewing their contracts.

For the last two years, I’ve worked as a UX researcher for OnlineOffice Inc, where I was part of the team that launched the updated office suite. During the development process, I interviewed more than 50 users of both OOI’s and competitors’ products. I was able to translate their desires into actionable suggestions for the design and product teams, contributing to a product launch that has already grown OOI’s user base by 120% in the first year. Through these experiences, I learned to use both qualitative and quantitative data to advocate for users and make decisions about the most important product features. As your UX designer, I’d apply this knowledge to help boost the user experience for your personal-tier products.

I also spent three years as a front-end developer on a product team at TeckyCompany. In this role, I learned what it’s like for those actually building products, including what kinds of features take the most time and work. As your UX designer, I’d use this experience to weigh design decisions and collaborate with the product team. I’m used to working at startups where, as much as you’d like to, you can’t get everything done at once, so I’ll be able to prioritize features that will help users most while still making reasonable asks of the product team.

Cloud Co’s business model has shown me that not every tech startup prioritizes its larger clients over the individual user. I’d love to bring my development and UX experience to your team to help provide the very best experience for your subscribers.

Sincerely, Curtis Chen

Read More: 4 Cover Letter Examples That’ll Make Writing Yours Way Easier

Tips for formatting your document like a pro

When you’re formatting your cover letter, you want to prioritize readability and professionalism. But you should also keep in mind that many cover letters submitted online will be uploaded to an applicant tracking system or ATS , which is software that employers use to organize and search candidate application materials. ATSs are very advanced but there’s some formatting they have trouble with.

Follow these guidelines to format your cover letter correctly for both human and computer readers:

• Font : Stick to the default fonts that come with your word processor—classics like Arial, Helvetica, Times New Roman, Cambria, Calibri, and Georgia.
• Font size: The ideal size will vary based on which font you choose, but keep it between 10 and 12 pt. Any smaller and you’ll have recruiters squinting at their screens. Any larger and they’ll be wondering if you’re trying to compensate for not having a lot to write about.
• Margins : You can’t go wrong with the usual one-inch margins all around, but you can make some slight adjustments if needed. Papadopoulos suggests decreasing the header space first.
• Alignment: All your text should be left aligned and there’s no need to indent every paragraph.
• Line spacing: Single space your cover letter (1.15 spacing works if it looks too cramped). Include an extra line between each section and paragraph.
• Length : “A cover letter should comfortably fit on one page,” Papadopoulos says. Your cover letter should be at least three paragraphs long, but generally no more than five—unless the job description says otherwise. If it’s too long, check out this guide for cutting your cover letter down .
• File format : You can submit your cover letter within the body of an email or as a separate file. But if it’s a separate file you’re uploading to an online system, stick to docx or pdf only. ATs cannot reliably “read” other file types.
• File name : Always include your name and the phrase “cover letter,” and you can also include the name of the position. Just make sure it’s easy to read and follow any instructions in the job posting.

Formatted cover letter example

Here’s how the above example looks in a properly formatted cover letter document.

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How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job In 2023 (With Examples)

• How To Write A Cover Letter
• When Is A Cover Letter Necessary
• Free Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Mistakes To Avoid
• Cover Letter Tips
• How To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter

Find a Job You Really Want In

Cover letters aren’t required with every application, but the majority of managers pay more attention to a candidate who includes a cover letter. This is especially so if you make an effort to tailor your letter to the specific position. It’s important not to just change the names and job positions, but also to show how your professional experience fits with the job. A good cover letter greatly increases your chance of getting an interview. If you’re looking to write a cover letter, rework a letter that you have, or just want to know what’s involved in the job application process, then keep reading. Key Takeaways: A cover letter should be a maximum of one page long, with three to five paragraphs. Before writing your cover letter, it’s important to reread the job description and include keywords from it. Do research to figure out who you are addressing, and make sure to keep your greeting gender neutral if you don’t know. Tailoring your resume to each job can help you stand out from other candidates. In This Article    Skip to section What is a cover letter? Why cover letters are important How to write a cover letter Cover letter examples Cover letter template Do’s and don’ts in a cover letter Cover letter FAQ References Expert opinion Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document that describes your professional background, fitness for the role, and interest in the company. Cover letters are a way of introducing yourself to hiring managers in a more engaging way than resumes can.

While your resume spells out the “who, what, where, when” of your relevant experience, a cover letter fills in the “why” and “how.” A good cover letter not only expands on your resume’s accomplishments but also highlights the soft skills that make you an excellent person to work alongside.

While there are no official formatting guidelines for cover letters, hiring managers and recruiters do have certain expectations regarding structure, length, and content.

Why cover letters are important

Writing a good cover letter is important because it is your chance to stand out from other potential candidates. Showing your personality while also matching the tone of the company will help recruiters to visualize how you could fit into the role.

Simply submitting a cover letter isn’t enough though. Each cover letter you write should be specifically tailored to the job you’re applying for (just like resumes). It’s essential that you show the reader that you’ve done your homework and understand exactly what function you’d be serving if hired. You do that by providing examples of past work experiences that directly relate to the responsibilities of the new job.

How to write a cover letter

Cover letters are inherently unique based on who’s writing them and for what position. However, as a cover letter is a business letter, it has an expected format that it should follow. This is important because you want the hiring manager to be able to look over your cover letter quickly and understand your qualifications and interest in the position.

Here’s the standard way that a cover letter should be formatted and what to include:

The header. The header of your letter is where you should input all of the contact information for yourself and the hiring manager . Do you best to address it directly to the person who’ll be reading the letter — typically either the hiring manager or HR manager.

Traditionally, you should include both your name and address and the employer’s name and address. However, as the majority of applications are online, the employer’s address is often omitted. But a traditional cover letter’s heading would look like this:

Page Roman 444 Frog Rd. Marigold, TX, 10987 August 27th, 2021 Chris Morgan Marketing Manager New Media Company 833 Rune Rd. Marigold, TX, 10987

If you’re emailing your cover letter, you can simply include your name, telephone number, email address, and fewer address details (just your city and state will suffice). You can also include a zip code if you live in a big city with multiple zip codes.

Jessica Dancer jessica. dancer @email.email | (555)-444-3333 | Colombus, OH 43110

Be sure to use a professional-sounding email address that’s not associated with your current or past employer. It’s disrespectful to both your current employer and the company you’re applying to, and will likely hurt your chances of being invited for an interview.

The greeting or salutation. Traditionally, the best salutation would be to use Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]. Make sure that you know the person’s gender when doing this, however, as you don’t want to misgender the hiring manager. Using “Dear [First Name] [Last Name]” is becoming more popular for this reason, patriotically among younger workers.

Dear Mr. Morgan, Dear Mrs. Smith Dear Ms. Conner

Avoid using generic greetings such as “To whom it may concern” as it’ll look like you didn’t bother to personalize the letter (even if you did.) That particular phrase has become somewhat controversial as well, so if you need to put a generic address — if you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, for instance — use something else, such as:

Dear Hiring Manager Dear [Department] Manager Dear [Title of the Person You’d Report to if Hired] Dear [Department] Hiring Team

Opening paragraph. The opening of your professional cover letter should instantly grab the attention of your reader . Try to lead off with one of your most relevant and impressive accomplishments.

Open strong . Open with a statement other than your name or stating your interest in the position. Lead with an interesting experience or achievement that directly relates to the new position.

Convey your personal value. There are always other qualified applicants with similar skills, so it is key to express why you personally would bring value to the organization. Give specific details as to the value you brought in a previous position, and how that could transfer to the new role.

Show your enthusiasm. Recruiters want to hire candidates who are excited about the position. Express enthusiasm and convey why you are passionate about the role. This is another opportunity to share a quick personal anecdote related to the job.

Keep it short. All of these points in your opening paragraph shouldn’t be more than a sentence or two each. You don’t want your introduction to be too long, as you want the reader to be able to quickly go through your cover letter.

As a Content Writer with a passion for travel and literature, I was thrilled to see the Senior Content Writer position open up at BookFly. My past experience driving organic traffic by 23% YoY to the travel website, XTravel, would translate perfectly into the position’s stated goals from the job description.

First body paragraph. Here is where you should really sell yourself across several areas. Showcase how your personality traits, such as being honest or having the ability to work under pressure, make you a good fit.

Emphasize transferable skills. Explain how the skills you’ve cultivated make you the perfect fit for the role. This can include collaborative work you’ve done in the past, a leadership role you had that drove results, or interpersonal skills.

Revisit the job description. Make sure to pull relevant skills from the job description and put them in your cover letter. If the hiring manager spent the time to list those skills, they’re going to be looking for candidates that have them.

It also helps with applicant tracking systems that may sift through cover letters looking for keywords.

Don’t skimp on personality traits. These are especially important if you don’t have a lot of experience. Desirable skills such as ambition, dedication, and getting work done on time are good for both entry-level positions and if you’re making a career change.

I have a passion for content creation and a deep understanding of the content cycle, from ideation to promotion. My years in the digital publishing world have crafted my ability to drive killer CTR and resonate with an audience. Not only did CTR jump by 2.1% in the months after I was brought on board, but it had a knock-on effect on social media engagement, which rose by 8% in the same time frame. I believe good content has its roots in good data. This is why while at Media Company I created a content-marketing dashboard to highlight KPIs like those mentioned above. The dashboard allowed us to take advantage of wins more rapidly and avoid repeating losses.

Second body paragraph. Just as an employer wants to know why you’d want the role, they also want to know why you’d want to work at their company. Do your research and learn more about the core values of the company. Discuss how they align with your own.

Check the company’s website but also start to explore LinkedIn for greater insights. Employers want to make sure that you fit into the overall culture, and this is also something you should consider for yourself. However you feel you fit into the work culture, explain to the recruiter why. Paint a picture of how you’ll be better from the company, and how the company will also benefit.

I thrive in a fast-paced environment and excel at creating structures from scratch. I spearheaded our SEO efforts, developing workflows and systems to ramp up content production from zero. BookFly’s commitment to core values of “collaboration and imagination” aligns with my own preferred approach to tackling projects and dreaming of big ideas.

Closing. The closing of your letter is your final impression to the hiring manager, and therefore should clearly express your eagerness to take on the position. You don’t need to rehash all of the accomplishments and skills highlighted in previous sections. Consider this more of a statement of intent.

First, express gratitude that they took the time to consider you for the job by making it all the way through your letter. Then, quickly remind them of the benefits that you can bring to the role and company.

Finally, your closing should state a clear call-to-action (CTA) for the recruiter to take next, such as calling you to schedule an interview. Being confident and direct at the end of your cover letter helps to close the deal.

I look forward to learning more about how the Senior Content Writer operates within BookFly and the current content process. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. Sincerely, Jessica Dancer

Cover letter examples

With thousands of cover letter templates on the internet, you want to make sure you choose the right one. Here’s a basic format of what a good cover letter will contain:

Jessica Dancer [email protected] | (555)-444-3333 | Colombus, OH 43110 Dear Mr. Morgan, As a Content Writer with a passion for travel and literature, I was thrilled to see the Senior Content Writer position open up at BookFly. My past experience driving organic traffic by 23% YoY to the travel website, XTravel, would translate perfectly into the position’s stated goals from the job description. I have a passion for content creation and a deep understanding of the content cycle, from ideation to promotion. My years in the digital publishing world have crafted my ability to drive killer CTR and resonate with an audience. Not only did CTR jump by 2.1% in the months after I was brought on board, but it had a knock-on effect on social media engagement, which rose by 8% in the same time frame. I believe good content has its roots in good data. This is why while at Media Company I created a content-marketing dashboard to highlight KPIs like those mentioned above. The dashboard allowed us to take advantage of wins more rapidly and avoid repeating losses. I thrive in a fast-paced environment and excel at creating structures from scratch. I spearheaded our SEO efforts, developing workflows and systems to ramp up content production from zero. BookFly’s commitment to core values of “collaboration and imagination” aligns with my own preferred approach to tackling projects and dreaming of big ideas. I look forward to learning more about how the Senior Content Writer operates within BookFly and the current content process. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. Sincerely, Jessica Dancer

If you’re putting the cover letter in an email, you can omit putting the contact information at the top and instead include it below your signature. You want to make sure to include your name, phone number, and LinkedIn link, as well as a professional portfolio , if applicable.

Dear hiring manager: I am writing about the position of veterinary receptionist at Pet Care Clinic posted on indeed.com. I am a certified dog trainer with both Petsmart and Petco, allowing me insight into animal behavior. I’m also an aspiring novelist , making me a fast, experienced typist as well as adept with Microsoft Word and Apple Pages. Since I’ve worked at pet stores for several years, I am familiar with different kinds of animal and animal care, as well as building a rapport with pet owners. While I enjoy working with animals and my coworkers, I would like to move into a business where I can continue to learn and build on my experience. I would also like to work for a smaller business. Veterinary medicine has always interested me, and I very much enjoy learning new things. I’m eager to learn more about it in order to help customers make the best choices for their pets. I’ve always enjoyed working with animals, even before I was able to get a job that allowed me to. I grew up with dogs and cats, so I’m comfortable and familiar with their behavior. Being a pet owner myself, I’m able to understand what customers are looking for in a veterinary clinic and tailor the experience to their needs. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Michelle Bolivar Email: [email protected] Phone: (555) 545-9706

Cover letter template

[your contact information] [date] Dear [Hiring Manager], I’m writing to apply for the open [position] at [company] that you posted [place job ad was found]. I believe that my [relevant experience] would be an excellent fit with [company name]. I have long been interested in [specific industry/department], and particularly your company because [why you’re interested in the company/awards they have won/accomplishments]. That experience and [relevant skills] that I’ve cultivated as a [current position] for [time worked in position or industry] will be an asset to the company as it’ll make me effective [at the job/particular aspect of the job]. The [responsibilities required in the job description] will be a [challenge/interesting task] and I look forward to making use of my [relevant skills]. I excel at [working with a team/working alone] and I want to use my expertise to further [company’s] success. I am excited about the possibilities this position holds, and I believe that my qualifications ensure I’d be an asset to your team. I look forward to being able to further discuss the details of the position and my qualifications with you in an interview. Please let me know if you require further information from me. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, [Your name] [Your contact information (if it’s an email)

Do’s and don’ts in a cover letter

Knowing the proper format of a cover letter is the most important factor, of course, but there are some additional dos and don’ts that if you follow can make your cover letter better. It’s during the editing process, it’s important to go over and make sure that you haven’t made any common mistakes that’ll hurt your chances.

Here are 10 dos and don’ts for writing a good cover letter:

Do’s:

Do start by scanning the original job posting for keywords you can include in your letter.

Do be proud of your accomplishments and make sure to highlight them.

Do clearly express why you would be an asset to the organization.

Do tailor your cover letter to every hiring manager and position that you apply for.

Do try to find unique experiences, but make sure to always discuss measurable and relevant results.

Don’ts:

Don’t feel the need to lie about your skills or accomplishments. One of the worst mistakes to make is being caught in a lie.

Don’t copy and paste a template and only change your name and job titles. Recruiters will not see the value in a plug-in-play cover letter that has been used by multiple applicants.

Don’t forget to be direct and include a call to action.

Don’t make your cover letter too long. Similar to your resume, you want the reader to sum up who you are and get a quick explanation of why you’re a good fit.

Don’t forget to proofread. Grammatical errors on a cover letter and resume are a quick way to get your packet in the “no pile”.

Cover letter FAQ

What do you write in a cover letter?

In a cover letter, you should mostly write about impressive accomplishments from past jobs or academic experiences that relate to the job you’re applying for.

What is the purpose of cover letter?

The purpose of a cover letter is to help a hiring manager see why your background makes you suitable for the role in question. While a resume lists achievements, educational background , and skills , it doesn’t give the reader an idea of your actual expertise or personality.

A cover letter allows you to share your approach to work, as well as your ability to communicate your value effectively. A good cover letter makes it easy for a reader to think “I could imagine this person working for us.”

How do you write a simple cover letter?

To write a simple cover letter, start with the header and greeting we outlined above. Next, state your interest in the position (give the exact job title as listed in the job description) and mention your years of industry/job experience.

To keep your cover letter simple, you can now briefly mention in 1-2 sentences or 3-4 bullet points what parts of your background are most important for the hiring manager.

Finally, thank the reader for considering your application, and sign off as usual (e.g., “Sincerely, [full name]”).

What is the best way to start a cover letter?

The best way to start a cover letter is with an accomplishment that speaks directly to your ability to provide value for the company. Other good strategies include describing your long-standing passion for the field, mentioning an important reference at the company, or referring specifically to challenges the company is currently facing.

Do you introduce yourself in a cover letter?

No, you do not introduce yourself in a cover letter. By that we mean you do not say “My name is so-and-so” — you simply jump into your background and why you’re interested in the position.

Your name can be found at the bottom of the cover letter, as well as the header, your email address, and your resume, so there’s no need to force it awkwardly into your cover letter’s opening.

How do you end a cover letter?

To end a cover letter, thank the reader for their time and/or consideration, express enthusiasm for further correspondence and conversation, and sign off with a standard closing like “Sincerely.”

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be a maximum of one page long, with three to five paragraphs. Half a page is the shortest that your cover letter should be.

Harvard Business Review — How to Write a Cover Letter

University of Washington — Writing the Cover Letter

Expert opinion

What’s a quick cover letter tip?

Michael Akbar Vice President Certified Professional Career Coach

Use your six seconds to show the employer in a tailored cover letter and resume that you understand their pain and will make their lives better if put in the position.

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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How to Write a Cover Letter in 2023 (Layout, Template and Examples)

Cover Letter Layout

What is the purpose of a cover letter, what to include in a cover letter, 4 steps on how to write a cover letter for 2023, 1. add contact information | cover letter details, 2. create the salutation | cover letter introduction, 3. how to start a cover letter | cover letter body, opening paragraph, 2nd paragraph, 3rd paragraph, closing paragraph, 4. proofreading | cover letter review, cover letter template, cover letter example, frequently asked questions (faq), what else makes a great cover letter, prior research the employer, optimize the cover letter with related keywords.

Make the introduction short, precise, and engaging to encourage the employer to read more about you.

Making it Relevant

How long should a cover letter be, are cover letters still relevant in 2023, wrapping up | what should a cover letter include, similar posts, 7 resume myths to stop believing (infographic), harry potter’s resume, how to build a resume for free in 2023, what to write in an email when sending a resume, power words for resume: 54 resume power words for 2023 (infographic), how to write availability on your resume.

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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Home » Job Tips » Resume Writing Tips » Cover Letter Formats – The 2023 Guide with Examples

Cover Letter Formats – The 2023 Guide with Examples

Writing an effective cover letter is key when looking for a job. Recent research revealed that 83% of hiring managers said that a great cover letter format affects their decisions, making it very important to get right. Whether you’re experienced or just starting in the job market, having solid writing skills and understanding how best to structure your application can be highly beneficial in landing that dream position.

In this blog, we share some top tips on formatting and crafting the perfect cover letter so don’t miss these golden opportunities. Investing some time into mastering the art of creating compelling yet concise applications could just lead you toward securing your ideal role.

Table of Contents

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a brief, one-page document that you send along with your resume to provide employers with your introduction. It also offers any pertinent information about you related to the job for which you are applying. The cover letter format for jobs and other applications includes three paragraphs: 

• An opening paragraph introducing why you’re interested in the position. 
• A second body paragraph providing summary details about your professional background relevant to this role.
• Finally, a closing statement outlining what makes you uniquely qualified for the specific opportunity being pursued.

Depending on individual employer practices some will require applicants to submit their materials including both a resume and accompanying cover letter while others might make it optional or not even necessary at all.

Sample Cover Letter Format

Here’s a professional cover letter format sample to provide you with useful guidance on how to structure your letter effectively and highlight your qualifications, enabling you to make a positive impression on prospective employers.

Sample Cover Letter with No Experience 

This is one of the best cover letter examples for freshers or a person with no experience.

To learn more about how to land your dream internship & job, you can take this internship and job preparation course .

Elements That Make Up a Cover Letter

Employing the right cover letter format can significantly enhance your chances of acing that first impression with prospective employers. Check out these guidelines on how to format a compelling cover letter:

1. Contact Details

In a proper job application cover letter format , include the following information in your cover letter header to make sure it is effective: 

• Name- Make it stand out by using large font sizes and bold text.
• Phone number- Include area/country code if you’re applying for a job outside of your current location.
• Email address- Use an appropriate email such as [email protected]. 
• Online profile (optional)- Enhance the application further with relevant online profiles, eg website or LinkedIn page, etc.

Next thing, to format your cover letter, include the current date and employer’s contact information. Leave a space between the date and the hiring manager’s name to make it easy for them to read.

• Today’s date
• Hiring manager’s name 
• Company name 
• Company street address 
• Company state, city, and ZIP code

2. Salutation

It’s important to make sure your cover letter is addressed correctly. Check the job description or check out the company website for the hiring manager’s name, but if you can’t find it that way don’t fret; just give them a call and ask who it should be sent to.

If that doesn’t work out, instead of using something generic like “To Whom It May Concern”, customize your salutation for who/what team /department you’re applying to. Try saying ”Dear Accounting Team,” or “Dear Hiring Manager”.

3. Starting Paragraph

This is your opportunity to grab the hiring manager’s attention and tell them who you are and why you’re applying for the job. Show enthusiasm by expressing how excited you are about this role as it relates to your career goals. Make it stand out by using keywords from the ad that relate directly back to what they’ve asked for, also mentioning if anyone referred you or knows someone at the company already if applicable.

In the initial section of your cover letter, strive to capture the hiring manager’s attention and present yourself. Additionally, indicate what position you’re applying for as well as where the job listing was discovered.

• Grab the hiring manager’s attention 
• Provide a self-introduction  
• List the position you’re applying for  
• Describe where you found the job posting

4. Middle Body Paragraph

Now that you have established your interest and enthusiasm for the role, it is time to discuss what qualifications make you an ideal fit. In one or two paragraphs, explain how relevant experiences and skills can transfer directly into the new job’s requirements. Here, focus on specific accomplishments that demonstrate why you are perfect for this position; repeating bullet points from a resume isn’t necessary at this point since employers may already be familiar with them. Details here should further illustrate those highlights to present yourself as the best possible match required for the role.

Do research on the company you are applying to. Learn about their industry, how they currently stand in it, and if possible what their plans for the future look like. Write a paragraph explaining why your skills can help them reach these goals. You may want to include some career highlights as bullets between paragraphs; focus on accomplishments with quantifiable numbers so that readers remember more easily.

5. End Paragraph

End your letter by thanking the employer for their time and letting them know you are interested in progressing to further stages of the hiring process. You can also use this as an opportunity to explain any gaps in employment history or highlight why you would be a great fit for the role.

6. Complimentary Close and Signature

When writing a professional cover letter, choose an appropriate complimentary closing that is friendly yet formal. Examples of suitable closings include “Sincerely”, “Regards”, or “Best” followed by your first name and last name. Alternatively, you can use more specific phrases such as “Thank You” or ‘Thank You for Your Consideration”.

Refrain from using overly casual expressions like cheers, warm regards, thanks a ton, etc., which could be too informal in the context of business correspondence . If sending out hard copies make sure to sign off with a handwritten signature along with your full name at the bottom portion below the closure sentence.

Extra Tips for a   Professional Cover Letter Format :

If you want potential employers to take the time to read your cover letter, you must have a flawless format. To ensure proper formatting for an effective job application cover letter, consider these additional tips:

• Font style- Use a conventional font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Verdana. Avoid fancy fonts to ensure the letter is picked up by applicant tracking systems.
• Font size- No larger than 12-point font and no smaller than 10.5-point 
• Margins- Between 1” and .5”; if running out of space adjust margins but not too drastically so that it looks thin/full.
• Spacing- Leave spacing between each part (date, address, etc). 
• File format & naming- Submit document files in either PDF/DOCX formats only; name them with your full name plus job title i.e JohnDoeJobTitleCoverLetter 
• Length- Every cover letter should be around 250-400 words maximum length and one page long

Conclusion 

A successful cover letter format can help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate why your qualifications make you an ideal candidate for a particular job. Be sure to include contact details, craft an engaging introduction, highlight relevant skills in the body of your text, and finish with a succinct closing statement. Customizing each application package shows employers that you put thought into submitting it.

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Sandipta Banerjee has completed her Master's in English Literature and Language. She has been working in the field of editing and writing for the past five years. She started her writing journey at a very young age with her poems which have now evolved into a poetry blog. She was working as Editorial Head in a US-based publishing house before joining Internshala.

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How to format a cover letter in 2024: examples and tips

It just might be the most important letter you’ll ever write. Your carefully crafted cover letter could lead to lifelong job satisfaction, buy you a house or put your kids through college. And so you wonder if cover letter format is important? 

You know your field, you know your skills and you know the people you want to work for. Now all you have to do is write them a one-page letter. Every journey to a dream job begins with a standout resume and a stellar cover letter.

But whether you’re a rocket scientist or a railroad worker, you may experience brain freeze when faced with this blank piece of paper and this seemingly simple task. And it IS a simple task, though it isn’t necessarily easy. 

It’s actually one of the ultimate feats of persuasive writing — a one-page letter so irresistible that it lands the writer a new job. It’s the kind of letter that can change your life. So what are the secrets to getting this crucial part of your job application right? What is the appropriate format for a cover letter? How do you start and end a cover letter? What do employers look for in a cover letter?

How to format a cover letter

While the content of your application letter will be completely unique, the elements are standard. The proper cover letter format includes:

• The greeting
• The body, or middle paragraphs
• The conclusion and call to action
• The signature or sign-off

Now that you understand the components of a cover letter format, here are our top 10 tips to cover letter formatting, writing and design. Below is a complete cover letter format sample follow by our top 10 tips to cover letter formatting, writing and design. 

1. Start with a well-designed cover letter header.

Good cover letter layout starts with a header, an electronic version of what used to be called a letterhead. This is the space at the top of the page containing your name, address, phone number and email. (Sometimes the mailing address is omitted, and sometimes people add their contact info for LinkedIn or other platforms.) 

The main purpose of the header is to convey your critical contact information so that the potential employer knows how to reach you. 

But the secondary purpose of the header is also important: to provide an attractive design element at the top of the page. Everything below the header will be black body text, which hopefully will be interesting to read but unfortunately isn’t very interesting to look at. 

The header is critical because it’s the one place on the page where you have any real design options. You can opt for color, creative use of typography and other touches that start your page off with a visual bang. That doesn’t mean it should be garish or loud, but it should be pleasing to the eye. 

You can check out Resume.io ’s collection of cover letter format examples to get an idea of some good design options for your header. 

A letter of interest and a cover letter are similar but not identical documents used to apply for a job. Here we explore the differences and discuss how to write each of them to maximize your chances of getting the job that’s right for you in 2024.

2. Engage the hiring manager with an appropriate cover letter greeting.

In old-timey days, it used to be OK to write “To Whom It May Concern,” “Dear Sir or Madam,” or even “Gentlemen” in a cover letter greeting . But those days are long gone. 

Always try to address your letter to a specific person. If the job posting doesn't mention the hiring manager's name, do some research, and make a call if necessary, to find out who the decision-maker is on the job you want.  (But don’t even THINK of misspelling that person’s name, and be sure you know what title they prefer.)

Psychologists have found that people get a little thrill from reading their own names, and it tends to make them to sit up and pay attention. Also, a letter addressed to a specific person is more likely to be answered than a letter sent to an entire department. In some cases you may find that the name of the hiring manager or recruiter is purposefully undisclosed, and if so, you might need to say something more generic like “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear (Company Name) Hiring Team.”

3. Write an irresistible cover letter introduction.

In the opening paragraph of your cover letter, you need to make an opening statement that sets up a make-or-break case. Find a way to introduce yourself, identify the job you are seeking, and provide a preview of why you are eminently qualified for this job. Your cover letter introduction should strike the right tone of voice from the outset — friendly, enthusiastic, confident, competent, but never arrogant or conceited. Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention, but for the right reasons. 

Above all, your opener should make a positive first impression and give your reader a reason to read on. 

Here’s an example of a good cover letter introduction :

After graduating with a BA degree in Hotel Management from Miami University, my first role in the hospitality industry set the tone for my career. I was sent on a year’s placement for Marriott to London during the 2012 Olympics, helping their London hotel network to organize events and promote their services at the various sporting venues.

4. Make your case in the body of the cover letter.

In the body of your cover letter, you must build a persuasive case that you are the right candidate for the job. You might need to boast a little bit, and that’s OK, because if you don’t promote your candidacy for this job, nobody else will. 

Talk about your work experience, and be specific about your accomplishments in past jobs. Wherever possible, use facts and figures (numbers, dollar figures, percentages) to quantify your achievements and work history. Also, go where your resume can’t by relating an anecdote about a problem you once faced and how you resolved it. 

A commonly asked question is: Are bullet points acceptable in a cover letter? The short answer is yes. The longer answer is: Use them sparingly and think about whether they benefit the visual look and reading flow of your cover letter. What you don’t want is to turn your cover letter into a second resume. 

The body of your letter can also mention your  education , certifications and relevant skills. And you may choose to discuss your aspirations for the future, specifically as they relate to the position you’re applying for. Be sure to study the job description carefully, and demonstrate that you meet the job requirements. (But obviously, you need to remain truthful, because any falsehoods in a job application will come back to haunt you.)

The tone of your writing is also important. To match the language and the level of formality, check out your prospective employer’s website, social media accounts and any other material you can find. 

Here’s an example of the body of a cover letter:

During my teenage and college years, I worked at my parents’ hardware store and have a strong understanding of what goes into a successful retail business. I managed the inventory, sorted the pricing and ran the promotional calendar. I was passionate about the trade, so assisting customers who are always in need of practical advice was a pleasure.

A step into becoming a tradesperson myself was entirely natural, and after fifteen years of building up a local clientele, it is time for my career to come full circle. I have a huge number of contacts in the business and am sure I would attract many customers your way.

I understand the profile of customers that visit your store and am able to help in terms of ensuring suitable stock for project purchases and helping to coordinate the best promotions. Tradespeople love to take advantage of a bargain, so the role of a retail assistant is to point them in the right direction. I increased sales by 20% year-on-year when I worked in retail previously – you have to be proactive, or the customers will go elsewhere.

5. Conclude your cover letter with a call to action.

Your closing paragraph can include a recap, a thank you and anything else important that you haven’t said yet. But your conclusion should also contain a call to action — a suggestion that you would be delighted to come in for an interview, or even just to talk by phone. You might also want to say that you’re always reachable at the contact info provided.

Make it clear from your close that you’re serious about this job and that you are genuinely eager to follow up.

Finish up with an appropriate sign-off phrase, such as “Sincerely,” “Respectfully” or “Best regards.”Then type your name below that, or add your signature if you’re planning on mailing this letter or delivering it in person.

Be sure to proofread your letter carefully, and ideally find a good editor to revise it for you. Typos and other English errors are among the top reasons cover letters and resumes are rejected. 

Here’s an example of how you might write the conclusion of your cover letter:

I would welcome the chance to visit and understand more about your operation, your plans for the future and how I might be able to contribute.

Simon Pringleton

6. Make a sensible font your first formatting choice.

Good choices for a cover letter format start with a good font . Use a modern, attractive, easy-to-read cover letter font, nothing too flashy or exotic, nothing that calls attention to itself. You want people to be reading your text, not staring at your odd font choice. 

Choose a font size between 10 and 12 points — any smaller and it’s hard to read, any larger and it starts to look like a Mother Goose book.

Align text left, in a style known as “ragged right” because it leaves space to the right of the last word in each line. Justifying text from margin to margin makes the page look like it’s filled with solid blocks of black text, and it sometimes stretches words horizontally to reach the margin. 

7. Keep paragraphs short.

Keep paragraphs short, add a space between them, and do not indent. 

It used to be OK to send a business letter with no spaces between paragraphs, provided you indented each paragraph. But these days, unless you’re typesetting a book, you need non-indented paragraphs with a space between them. 

And you need to keep the paragraphs fairly short, and make their lengths consistent.  If you received a one-page letter containing 400 words that were all in the same paragraph, would you look forward to reading it? The eye needs a break, and the brain does too. That’s why paragraphs were invented.

8. Use 1-inch margins. 

Leave room for  1-inch margins on the top, bottom, right and left of your cover letter.

There’s a saying among page designers, both print and digital: “White space is your friend.” Every design, illustration or art element needs to incorporate a certain amount of negative space that contains nothing at all. 

Designers will also tell you to avoid “trapped white space,” meaning an inconvenient blank in the center of your design. That’s why white space should be “pushed to the outside” — providing a sort of an invisible frame that allows the central image to dominate.

This is the whole idea behind margins — it’s a white frame that surrounds and highlights your content.

9. Stick to one page.

You might as well consider it a cardinal rule that your cover letter length cannot exceed one page. Yet anyone who’s tried to write one could probably testify that the first draft is usually too long.

You may be tempted to reduce the font size, shrink the margins or get rid of all the white space.  But please resist the urge to atone for your verbosity by tweaking the formatting. Trim the fat from your text before resorting to measures that will make the letter denser and harder to read.

10. Use a professionally designed cover letter template.

There’s a simple way to sidestep the potential pitfalls of formatting a cover letter, and that’s to use a professionally designed template . 

Here is exactly how you can write a cover letter that will stand out from the crowd, and help you land that interview.

A cover letter template is a pre-designed framework that already has an eye-catching cover letter header, appropriate typography and an adequate use of white space. All you have to do is replace the existing text with your own, and your letter is done.

For more information, click on this video, "How to Format Your Cover Letter," from the University of Southern California Career Center. 

Take a moment to look through Resume.io’s cover letter samples , find a template you like and get busy customizing it to make it your own. You’ll be building on a foundation of success.

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Department of Economics

• Undergraduate

How to Write a Cover Letter That Sounds Like You (and Gets Noticed)

by  Elainy Mata

May 10, 2022

I hate cover letters. They add so much stress to the already uncomfortable and grueling job hunt. Every time I’m writing one, I find myself wondering: Do people even read these?

Unfortunately, the answer is “yes.” But, there are some ways to make the process a little less terrible. I asked Amy Gallo, Harvard Business Review editor and author of “ How to Write a Cover Letter ,” for her advice. From doing the research, to starting off strong, to emphasizing your value — Gallo taught me exactly what I need to do to get my cover letters noticed by hiring managers. I even wrote a new cover letter that has her blessing. (Scroll down if you’re in need of an expert-approved example.)

Subscribe to  HBR Ascend on YouTube  for more videos on work, life, and everything in between.

Transcript 

ELAINY MATA: So you want to know how to tackle the cover letter. I do too. I actually really hate cover letters. I hate cover letters. I hate cover letters.

But the cover letter is important. It’s time to face our fears, and just figure out how in the world we are actually going to write it.

I got you, and we’re going to do this together. These tips are going to help you go through the process a lot easier. So if you are ready to tackle the cover letter, stick around and keep watching.

In front of me right now are three cover letters that I’ve written in the past, for three different jobs. And I’m just embarrassed. I’m embarrassed to read these.

To whom it may concern, to whom it may concern, to whom it may concern.

I would like to respectfully submit this cover letter.   I would like to respectfully submit this cover letter.

I am a passionate, detail-oriented person. I am passionate, detail-oriented person.

This sounds like I’m — this doesn’t sound like me at all. I think you want me to talk this way. Here we go like. Hire me.

I talked to Amy Gallo, an HBR editor, and the author of one of our most popular articles, “How to Write a Cover Letter.”

AMY GALLO: First of all, you’re not alone. I write about how to write cover letters, and I also hate them.

ELAINY MATA: She’s done the research. She’s talked to the experts. And I’m going to tell you exactly what she told me.

Make it one page

ELAINY MATA: So how long does a cover letter actually have to be? Just one page, one.

AMY GALLO: Don’t play with the font, and make it like eight point font, and like make your margins really wide. Just really figure out what is the most essential things that need to go on one page.

Do research, find a name

ELAINY MATA: This should be a no-brainer, but let’s get specific. Let’s say you’re applying for a job here, at Harvard Business Review. Go on the company’s website, go to their “About Us” section, and read what they’re about, see their mission statement, see their tone, see what that company is actually looking for, and what they stand for.

So you’ve got the broad stuff, but let’s dig a little bit deeper. What is the company that you’re applying for talking about now? You should actually go into their LinkedIn, their Twitter, see what they’re sharing, see who are they’re talking to, see what they’re talking about, so you can get a sense of what is currently happening. Lastly, find that hiring manager. It is so much better to address your cover letter to an actual person and a name rather than, to whom it may concern. So I have to kind of creep a little bit, and be like a private investigator.

AMY GALLO: Yeah, creeping is definitely part of the process. Usually, with LinkedIn, you can see who’s posted the job, who is sharing it with their network. You may not know for sure that that’s the hiring manager, but at least it’s a little more personable. Sometimes, I’ve heard people just reach out and say, “Who’s the hiring manager for this job? I’d like to address my cover letter to that person.”

Start strong

ELAINY MATA: You’ve probably written this 100 times before. “Hi, my name is this. I’m based here, and I’m applying for this job.” No, no, no, no, don’t do that. The hiring manager has a stack of cover letters. So you have to write yours to grab their attention. Amy, can you please give me an example of a strong, bold, opening line for cover letter. I promise I won’t steal it.

AMY GALLO: You’re allowed to steal it. Anyone should be able to steal it:

“I saw your listing on this website, and I was thrilled to see it, because it’s exactly the kind of job I’ve been looking for to apply my skills in X.”

Write something that’s short, to the point, but shows both enthusiasm, as well as experience that’s relevant to the job.

Emphasize your value

ELAINY MATA: Figure out what problem the company is facing. They’re hiring for a reason. Figure out what that reason is, and how you can best solve that problem. Amy also found the top two qualities that people generally look for is adaptability, and the ability to learn quickly.

How about if I just got out of college, and I’m looking at these jobs that are asking for three to five years or more of experience. How can I write a cover letter if I feel like I don’t have enough to write about?

AMY GALLO: Yeah, so that’s a good question, because the cover letter shouldn’t be focused so much on the past. That’s the resume’s job. The cover letter is really about the future. So how are you going to take what’s in that resume, your past, and apply it to where you’re going.

Convey enthusiasm, not desperation

ELAINY MATA: This is really hard to balance. You want to show them that you’re excited to work there, and that you’re going to bring a lot of energy to the team. But don’t be too strong, because over eagerness can actually work against you.

Find a proofreader

AMY GALLO: Write the letter you want to write. Then share it with someone else, someone who knows you well, but someone who also will tell you like it is. We’re not good judges of our own writing.

ELAINY MATA: So getting a second pair of eyes will help you look for any errors, typos, and most importantly, they can tell you if you make sense.

Amy, this sounds like a lot. Is there even like a sort of a shortcut to this, or a sort of scalable way that I can do this for multiple different jobs?

AMY GALLO: I mean, you’ve probably heard the phrase looking for a job is a full-time job. It does take a lot of time. You’re tweaking some things. You’re not writing a whole new letter. So you’re going to have a template. Write your best cover letter for the first job you apply for. Share that with your friend to check the tone. Do the research on the company, right? Do that the first time. Then and adjust the cover letter accordingly. Does that seem more reasonable?

ELAINY MATA: Yes, much more reasonable.

So my task is to apply for a job here at HBR, and to write a new cover letter using the advice that Amy gave me. Let’s do it.

This is hard. I never said it was going to be easy, maybe easier than what you were doing before, but definitely not easy.

The first draft

Dear Maureen and hiring team,

I saw your listing on Linkedln and am excited because this is exactly the job that I’ve been looking for to showcase my skills in video production and production management to assist the creative center in producing compelling content.

Working in news and movie production has taught me to hear an idea and a concept and be able to fully plan out the logistics needed to make the desired final visual product. I have been able to work with software like Adobe Creative Suite and TriCaster, and have worked with other team members to write scripts and compose story boards.

Being part of the Creative Center team will give me the challenges to grow as a skilled producer and assist in production, help the production planning process, create a quick tum around for video publication, and manage content.

AMY GALLO: You did well on length. It is very short. That’s good.

ELAINY MATA: My gosh.

AMY GALLO: I read this, I’m like, that first sentence is spot on. And then it gets a little bit stilted. And then it goes into what’s probably on your resume. And I want a little more personality.

The final draft

ELAINY MATA: So Amy, after many back and forths — How do you think I did?

AMY GALLO: All right. So I’m looking at it right now. And I think you did a really good job.

You’ve got the main components here. There’s some personality in it. There’s some flattery in it about the company you’re applying to, but it’s not like over the top. I have to tell you, I would have you in. I think it’s a great letter.

ELAINY MATA: That’s it for me. I wrote the cover letter. You got to see the whole process. And I feel like I definitely have a better outlook on how to approach it. These are not easy to write, so good luck out there. Watch as many times as you can. Practice makes perfect. I’ll see you soon.

Cover letter example 

I was so excited to see your post on LinkedIn because it’s exactly the type of job I’m looking for: an opportunity to bring my experience with video production and enthusiasm for storytelling to an organization that sets the standard for high-quality management content.

In addition to five years of experience in broadcast journalism, research, and video production, I would bring an organized and systems-level perspective to this role. I view video production as a puzzle, and like to think about which parts need to come together in order to make a great final product. My approach is to have in-depth conversations with my team members, and the various stakeholders, before each project. This helps me nail down the logistics — from location to talent.

From there, the fun begins: fleshing out the concept and identifying what visuals will best represent it. Ideation and storyboarding are essential in this step. I know I’m not right all the time, so I enjoy working with a diverse team that can bring in new perspectives, brainstorm, and pitch ideas that will make the final product stronger. Whenever possible, I also try to seek out other sources for inspiration, like magazines, which allow me to observe different ways of expression and storytelling. This approach has served me well. It’s what has allowed me to enter the film industry and grow as a creator.

On my website, you can see examples of how I use the above process to create fun, engaging content.

Given this experience and my enthusiasm for the work you do, I believe I’d make a great addition to your team. I recently had a chance to try out your Patient Zero product at my current organization. The simulation is both challenging and engaging. I was impressed by your ability to apply  different storytelling methods to an online training course (which, let’s admit, can often be a little dry). Your work exemplifies exactly what I believe: There’s an opportunity to tell a compelling story in everything — all you have to do is deliver it right.

I’d love to come in and speak with you more about what I’d be able to offer in this role. Harvard Business Publishing is my top choice and I believe I’d make valuable contributions to your team.

Thank you for your time and consideration!

NICU Nurse Cover Letter – Example & Tips 2024

Explore our NICU nurse cover samples and tips to help you create the best cover letter that lands you the job.

Mrinmoy Das

Read more posts by this author.

A NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) nurse is a specialized healthcare professional who provides critical care to newborns with serious medical issues. These nurses work with premature infants, babies with congenital disabilities, babies with severe infections, and other life-threatening conditions.

Therefore, you can easily tell that the job of a NICU nurse is extremely serious and difficult. Understanding the profound impact of your work, you must write the perfect NICU nurse cover letter that captures both your skill and compassion.

In this comprehensive blog, we will provide you with A+ cover letter examples and tips on how to write a great NICU nurse cover letter.

NICU Nurse Cover Letter Example (Experienced Individuals)

[Janet Lane] [Your Address] [Contact Details]

[Hiring Manager's Name] [Hospital Name] [Address]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the NICU Nurse position at [Hospital Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. I am a registered nurse with over [X] years of experience in neonatal intensive care and a deep commitment to providing high-quality care to critically ill newborns; I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your NICU team.

Key Qualifications:

Extensive NICU Experience: Over [X] years of hands-on experience in providing comprehensive care to critically ill and premature babies in a neonatal intensive care unit.

Advanced Clinical Skills: Proficient in using a ventilator, administering intravenous medications, performing complex medical procedures, and responding to neonatal emergencies with precision and care.

Family-Centered Care: Strong focus on providing emotional support and education to families, helping them navigate the challenges of having a critically ill newborn, and ensuring their involvement in the care process.

Calm Under Pressure: Demonstrated ability to remain calm, think critically, and act swiftly in high-pressure situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of the infants under my care.

Commitment to Continuous Learning: Dedicated to staying updated with the latest advancements in neonatal care and continuously enhancing my skills through ongoing education and training.

At [Previous Hospital Name], I was recognized for my ability to build strong, supportive relationships with both the infants and their families. I believe that a NICU nurse's role extends beyond clinical responsibilities; providing emotional support and education to families during difficult times is just as important.

I am particularly drawn to the NICU at [Hospital Name] because of your reputation for excellence in neonatal care and your commitment to incorporating the latest advancements in medical technology. I am eager to bring my skills, experience, and passion for neonatal nursing to your esteemed team.

My resume, which details my qualifications and professional background further, is enclosed. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience aligns with the needs of your NICU. Thank you for considering my application.

[Janet Lane]

NICU Nurse Cover Letter Template (Experienced Individuals)

[Sarah Martin] [Your Address] [Contact Details]

I am writing to express my interest in the NICU Nurse position at [Hospital Name]. With over [X] years of experience as a neonatal nurse practitioner, I am confident in my ability to provide exceptional care to critically ill newborns in your highly regarded medical center.

I have developed strong skills in neonatal assessments, ventilator management, and emergency response throughout my career. My hands-on experience includes caring for premature infants and those with complex medical conditions, always ensuring that they receive the highest level of care.

My ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams has been a key factor in delivering comprehensive and personalized care to each infant. At [Previous Hospital Name], I was recognized for my clinical expertise and my compassionate approach to family-centered care.

I support families during challenging times and ensure they are actively involved in their baby's care journey.

I am drawn to the opportunity at [Hospital Name] due to your commitment to advancing neonatal care and your reputation for excellence. I am eager to bring my experience and dedication to your team and help make a difference in the lives of your smallest patients.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experience align with the needs of your NICU.

[Sarah Martin]

Related: Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter

NICU Nurse Cover Letter Example (For Freshers)

[David Stevens] [Your Address] [Contact Details]

I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the NICU Nurse position at [Hospital Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. As a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a strong passion for neonatal care, I am eager to begin my nursing career in your esteemed hospital.

Graduation: I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from [Your University]. I completed comprehensive clinical rotations, including a focused Neonatal Intensive Care Unit rotation.

Foundation in Neonatal Care: During my NICU clinical rotation, I gained hands-on experience in neonatal assessments, feeding support, and basic life support.

Academic Background: Excelled in pediatrics, neonatal care, and critical care nursing coursework.

Patient Care: I am known for my compassionate approach. I prioritize the well-being of both the infants and their families.

Team Player: Proven ability to work collaboratively with healthcare teams, always ready to assist and eager to contribute positively to patient care.

Eager to Learn and Grow: I have demonstrated a commitment to continuous learning, having completed additional certifications in Neonatal Resuscitation (NRP) and Basic Life Support (BLS). I am keen to further develop my skills in the real world.

I am particularly drawn to [Hospital Name] because of your renowned NICU and commitment to excellence. I am excited to contribute to your team while providing compassionate care for babies.

Enclosed is my resume, which details my academic background and clinical experience. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my passion for neonatal care and dedication to nursing can contribute to your NICU. Thank you for considering my application.

[David Stevens]

NICU Nurse Cover Letter Template (For Beginners)

[Timothy Gupta] [Your Address] [Contact Details]

I am excited to apply for the NICU Nurse position at [Hospital Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from [Your University]. I am eager to begin my career in neonatal care, bringing my education and passion to your esteemed NICU team.

Key Highlights:

NICU Experience: I completed an intensive clinical rotation in the NICU, gaining hands-on experience in neonatal assessments, feeding support, and neonatal resuscitation.

Solid Academic Foundation: Excelled in pediatric and neonatal care courses, developing a strong understanding of the principles of NICU nursing.

Compassionate Care: Known for my empathetic approach, I prioritize the well-being of infants and their families, ensuring a supportive environment.

Eager to Contribute: Certified in Neonatal Resuscitation (NRP) and Basic Life Support (BLS), committed to continuous learning and growth.

I am particularly drawn to [Hospital Name] due to your reputation for excellence in neonatal care. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and provide compassionate care to your smallest patients.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my qualifications in more detail.

[Timothy Gupta]

Related: Pediatric Nurse Cover Letter

What Should a NICU Nurse Cover Letter Contain?

A NICU Nurse cover letter should be concise and compelling. It must highlight your qualifications, experience, and passion for the role. Here's a breakdown of the different parts of the cover letter:

Contact Information: Include your name, Address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter.

Date: The Date when you are writing the letter.

Employer's Contact Information: Include the hiring manager's name (if available), the name of the hospital or healthcare facility, and its Address.

2. Salutation

Greeting: If possible, address the hiring manager by name, such as "Dear [Hiring Manager's Name]." If you don't know the name, "Dear Hiring Manager" or "To Whom It May Concern" is acceptable.

3. Introduction

Purpose: Clearly state the purpose of the letter to apply for the NICU Nurse position. Mention how you found the job posting.

Hook: Briefly introduce yourself, including your current role or relevant experience, and express your enthusiasm for the position.

4. Body (Experience and Qualifications)

Relevant Experience: In your nursing cover letter , highlight your experience, particularly your experience in neonatal care. Mention specific skills such as ventilator management, neonatal assessments, emergency response, and family-centered care.

Skills and Competencies: Discuss your clinical skills, ability to work under pressure, teamwork, and approach to patient and family care. Try to demonstrate how your experience aligns with the requirements of the NICU Nurse role.

Achievements: Mention any recognitions, certifications, or accomplishments that make you stand out as a candidate.

5. Why You're a Good Fit

Align with the Hospital's Values: Explain why you want to work at this hospital or healthcare facility. Mention anything about their work, reputation, or approach to neonatal care.

Contribution: Briefly state what you can contribute to their team.

6. Conclusion

Call to Action (CTA): Discuss how your experience and skills can benefit their NICU team. Mention that you have enclosed your resume and look forward to the possibility of an interview.

Gratitude: Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.

Sign-Off: Use a professional closing such as "Sincerely," "Best regards," or "Kind regards," followed by your name.

Signature: If sending a hard copy, leave space for your handwritten signature above your typed name.

Skills Required to Become a NICU Nurse:

Hard skills:.

Neonatal Care Expertise

Technical Skills (Ventilators, Incubators, Monitors)

Medicine Administration

Neonatal Resuscitation

Basic Life Support (BLS)

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

Critical Care Nursing

Patient Assessment

Medical Documentation

Soft Skills:

Compassion and Empathy

Critical Thinking

Communication Skills

Emotional Resilience

Ability to work in team

Attention to Detail

Adaptability

Certifications Required to Qualify as NICU Nurse

1. registered nurse (rn) license.

Mandatory nursing license obtained after passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

2. Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) Certification

Specialized training in neonatal resuscitation and emergency care.

3. Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification

Certification in basic life-saving skills, often required for all healthcare professionals.

4. Certified Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse (RNC-NIC)

Optional certification that demonstrates advanced expertise in neonatal intensive care.

5. CCRN (Neonatal)

This certification is needed in areas such as NICUs, cardiac units, trauma units, and critical care transport.

Explore our other cover letter samples for different job types and experience levels:

Finance Assistant Cover Letter

Pixar Cover Letter

Nursing Cover Letter

Case Administrator Cover Letter

Talent Acquisition Cover Letter

Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a NICU Nurse Cover Letter

Here are some mistakes to avoid:

1. Using a Generic Cover Letter

A generic cover letter lacks personalization and may give the impression that you're not genuinely interested in the specific position or hospital. Always tailor your cover letter to the NICU Nurse role and the healthcare facility you're applying to.

2. Overly Long Letters

Hiring managers have limited time, so a concise, focused letter is more likely to be read and appreciated. Stick to the most relevant experiences and skills and keep the cover letter to one page.

3. Failing to Highlight Relevant Experience

The NICU is a specialized environment, and hiring managers are looking for candidates with experience. Be sure to clearly outline your hands-on experience in neonatal care, including specific skills like ventilator management or neonatal resuscitation.

4. Neglecting to Mention Certifications

Certifications are often required or highly preferred for NICU positions. Failing to mention them could make your application seem less competitive. For example, CCRN (Neonatal) and RNC Certification for Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing (RNC-NIC).

5. Spelling and Grammatical Errors

Errors in your cover letter can create a negative first impression and suggest a lack of attention to detail. Always proofread your cover letter carefully and consider having someone else review it.

6. Leaving Out a Call to Action

A call to action shows confidence and initiative. Always include a polite request for further discussion, such as expressing interest in an interview.

In conclusion, crafting a compelling NICU Nurse cover letter requires attention to detail, personalization, and a focus on relevant experience. By avoiding common mistakes and highlighting your key qualifications, you can present yourself as a strong candidate who is skilled and passionate about providing exceptional care to newborns in need. Remember, your cover letter is your opportunity to make a lasting impression, so make it count.

This article has been written by Mrinmoy Das . He works as a content writer at Vantage Lens . His areas of interests range from heavy metal to history. He has a passion for storytelling, and he crafts compelling narratives that resonate across diverse audiences.

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Retail Associate Cover Letter: How to Craft a Winning Application

• Career Advice

• Posted On: 2024-09-03
• Posted By: Shacara

1. Understand the Role

2. structure your cover letter.

• Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and state the position you’re applying for.
• Body: Highlight your relevant skills, experience, and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the role.
• Closing: End with a strong closing statement that reiterates your interest in the position and includes a call to action.

3. What to Include in Your Cover Letter

• Customer Service Experience: Showcase your experience in providing excellent customer service.
• Product Knowledge: Mention any experience you have with the products or services offered by the employer.
• Teamwork and Communication: Highlight your ability to work well with others and communicate effectively.
• Flexibility and Availability: Emphasize your willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.

4. Sample Retail Associate Cover Letters

Example 1: entry-level retail associate, example 2: experienced retail associate, example 3: retail associate with a focus on fashion, example 4: retail associate with a focus on technology, example 5: retail associate with management aspirations, get ahead of the competition.

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Tool And Die Maker Cover Letter Example

A Tool and Die Maker fabricates, assembles, and repairs tools dies, and molds, ensuring they meet precise specifications. The role involves working with various materials, operating machining equipment, and conducting quality inspections. Hiring employers pick tool and die makers possessing strong technical skills, proficiency with machining tools, and equipment, and having a commitment to quality and precision.

Writing a professional Tool And Die Maker Cover Letter is a way a hiring manager gets his/her first impression of you. To stand out among others and present your relevant work history and skills, you have to come out with a powerful Cover Letter. Whether you are seeking an entry-level position or have several years of experience in the field, exposing the relevant achievements in the cover letter allows you to stand out and get that job interview. Unable to write one, use our free Tool And Die Maker Cover Letter sample and expert writing tips. Need something super quick? Utilize our simple Cover Letter builder to do the work for you.

• Cover Letters
• Manufacturing

A Tool and Die Maker crafts precision tools, dies, and molds used in manufacturing processes. Roles and responsibilities associated with the role include interpreting technical drawings, setting up and operating machine tools, and inspecting finished products for accuracy and quality. They use various equipment, such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders to create and repair tools and dies. The tool and die makers also perform maintenance on tools, troubleshoot issues, and make adjustments to ensure optimal performance. Attention to detail, technical skills, and a strong understanding of machining processes are essential for this role.

What to Include in a Tool And Die Maker Cover Letter?

Roles and responsibilities.

• Fabricating and assembling precision tools, dies, and molds.
• Operating machining equipment such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders.
• Reading and interpreting technical drawings, blueprints, and specifications.
• Conducting quality inspections of finished products.
• Repairing and maintaining tools, dies, and molds.
• Measuring and testing completed tools and dies for accuracy.
• Selecting appropriate materials for tool and die production .
• Troubleshooting and resolving issues with tools and dies.

Education & Skills

Tool and die maker skills:.

• Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and guidelines.
• Proficiency in CAD software and other technical tools.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Proficiency with machining equipment and tools.
• Strong technical and machining skills.
• Attention to detail and precision.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints.

Tool And Die Maker Education Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Apprenticeship or technical training in tool and die making.
• Previous experience as a Tool and Die Maker or in a related role.
• Certification in tool and die-making or machining is a plus.

Tool And Die Maker Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Dear Mr./Ms.

Being a successful tool and die maker requires the ability to use appropriate tools, and demonstrate precision. As an experienced and self-motivated individual with experience in tools and die making, along with an unparalleled technical background and a commitment to precision, I am well-prepared to deliver my strengths to make a remarkable effect on (Company name) in the given role.

I have nine years of experience working in a similar capacity, and I am familiar with the various tools used in the profession. I have great hand-eye coordination and can learn any job quickly.

Some of my experiences and accomplishments are stated below for your reference –

• Successfully improved the efficiency and accuracy of the tooling process, which resulted in a (%) increase in production output and a significant reduction in defects.
• The ability to interpret technical drawings, and specifications to develop precise tools and die.
• Proficiency in employing CNC machines, lathes, grinders, and other equipment.
• Skillful in performing routine maintenance and repairs on tools and dies.
• Well-versed in conducting quality inspections, with the ability to ensure all products meet stringent tolerances and specifications.
• Expertise in troubleshooting and resolving issues that arise during the manufacturing process.

My attention to detail and commitment to quality have unswervingly resulted in the success of the manufacturing operations at my previous workplaces. Moreover, my proficiency in interpreting technical drawings and specifications has developed accurate components. I also assure to bring along my expertise in quality assurance and ensure all products meet strict tolerances and specifications at (Company Name).

I am excited about the prospect of bringing my expertise, and skills to your organization. Thank you for reviewing my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications in detail.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

As seen in the above cover letter sample, every cover letter should be short and precise. The cover letter should barely contain three to four paragraphs and should include these –

• Once you have addressed the employer, your next statement should include your reason for writing this letter, the exact position, and the source from where you got to know of this opening. It should also draw the attention of the reader to read the letter with interest.
• The middle paragraph should be used to mention the job description and connect your skills and experience with the job listings. Highlight your key accomplishments but don’t mention everything as given in the resume
• In your final paragraph, summarize your skills, and knowledge and repeat how those traits will suit this position. Before signing off, show your gratitude by thanking the employer for taking the time to view your application, and requesting them to set up a time for an interview.

This is what an effective and interesting cover letter should look like. We have a resume database that will enable you to construct a riveting Tool And Die Maker Resume Sample !

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Related Manufacturing Cover Letters

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How to Tailor Your Cover Letters for Faculty Jobs

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It’s not easy to customize application letters. You’ll spend a lot of time asking yourself, “Am I doing this right?”

By   Jennifer S. Furlong  and   Stacy M. Hartman

Originally published: September 14, 2023

Read the full article at the Chronicle of Higher Education .