sample cover letter responding to job posting

Sample Cover Letters In Response to Ad or Job Posting

Cover letter in response to ad, cover letter in response to a job posting (executive briefing).

Cover letter in response to a job posting

Cover letter in response to an ad.

Covering letter sample in reply to job advertisement

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• Career Blog

Email Cover Letter: 10 Examples & Writing Tips for 2024

Email has become a ubiquitous form of communication that is widely used in most industries. While email is mostly used to communicate with colleagues and clients, it has become an essential tool for job seekers looking to send their resumes to potential employers.

Since the introduction of email, the traditional cover letter has undergone significant changes. Today, job seekers are expected to attach an email cover letter to their resume. Unlike the traditional cover letter that is printed on paper and sent in an envelope, an email cover letter is sent as an email attachment along with the resume.

Employers receive hundreds of resumes for every job posting they advertise. To stand out from the rest of the applicants, job seekers need to create a compelling email cover letter that highlights their skills and experience.

Importance of Email Cover Letter

An email cover letter is a powerful tool that can help job seekers stand out from the competition. The email cover letter provides job seekers with an opportunity to introduce themselves to potential employers, showcase their skills, and explain why they are the best candidates for the job.

When submitting a resume, attaching an email cover letter demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. Employers appreciate job seekers who take the time to craft a customized email cover letter for each job application. It shows that the job seeker is serious about the job and has put in the effort to present themselves in the best possible light.

Advantages of Email Cover Letter

There are several advantages to using an email cover letter when applying for a job. Here are some of the most important:

Convenience:  Email cover letters are easy to create and send. They are also easy to customize for each job application.

Faster response:  Email cover letters can help job seekers get a faster response from potential employers. Employers can quickly review the email cover letter and resume and respond to the job seeker.

Cost-effective:  Email cover letters are cost-effective. They eliminate the need to print and mail traditional cover letters, saving job seekers time and money.

Customizable:  Email cover letters are customizable. Job seekers can tailor the email cover letter to the specific job posting and showcase their skills and experience.

An email cover letter is an effective way for job seekers to stand out from the competition and increase their chances of getting hired. In the following sections, we will share 10 examples and writing tips for creating an effective email cover letter that will impress potential employers.

Elements of an Effective Email Cover Letter

When it comes to crafting an effective email cover letter, there are a few key elements that can make all the difference.

Personalization

First and foremost, personalization is key. This means tailoring your email cover letter to the specific company and job you’re applying for, rather than using a generic template. Start by addressing the recipient by name, and mention any specific details about the company or position that caught your attention. This shows that you’ve done your research and have a genuine interest in the job.

Clear and Concise Language

In addition to personalization, it’s important to use clear and concise language in your email cover letter. Avoid using overly complicated words or industry jargon that the recipient may not understand. Instead, focus on expressing your qualifications and experience in a straightforward manner. Be sure to proofread carefully for any typos or grammatical errors, as these can detract from the overall professionalism of your email.

Professional Tone

Maintaining a professional tone throughout your email cover letter is also crucial. Avoid using overly casual language or emoticons, and instead aim for a tone that is friendly yet formal. Make sure to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job, while still maintaining a sense of decorum.

Proper Formatting

Finally, proper formatting is key when it comes to crafting an effective email cover letter. Be sure to keep the body of your email organized and easy to read, with plenty of white space and clear headings to separate different sections. Use a professional-looking font, and keep your email signature simple and straightforward.

By following these key elements of an effective email cover letter, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a compelling message that can help you land your dream job.

Writing Tips for Email Cover Letter

When it comes to writing an email cover letter, there are certain elements that need to be addressed properly in order to make a great impression on the recipient. Here are some writing tips to keep in mind:

Addressing the recipient

It’s important to address the recipient by their name rather than using a generic greeting. If you don’t know their name, do some research on the company website or LinkedIn to find out who the hiring manager is for the position you’re applying for.

Subject line

Your subject line should be clear and concise, highlighting why you’re reaching out. Avoid using vague or generic subject lines that won’t catch the recipient’s attention.

Start your email with a professional salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name].” Avoid using informal greetings like “Hey” or “Hi there.”

Opening paragraph

Your opening paragraph should be brief and engaging. Start by introducing yourself and explaining why you’re interested in the position you’re applying for. Highlight any relevant skills or experience that make you a strong candidate for the job.

Body of the email

The body of your email should expand on the information included in your resume and cover letter. Keep it concise and focused on the most important aspects of your experience and qualifications. Use bullet points to break up the text and make it easy to skim.

Closing paragraph

End your email with a strong closing paragraph that summarizes your interest in the job and your qualifications. Provide a call to action, such as requesting an interview or follow-up conversation.

Finish your email with a professional signature that includes your name, phone number, and email address. You may also want to include a link to your LinkedIn profile or personal website.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to write an effective email cover letter that will capture the attention of the hiring manager and showcase your qualifications for the job.

Sample Email Cover Letters

Are you struggling to write a perfect email cover letter? Do you want to know the best approach to make your email stand out to potential employers? Look no further than these four sample email cover letters.

Sample 1: Response to Job Posting

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to submit my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I came across your job posting on [Job Board] and was immediately drawn to the opportunity to work with such a reputable company.

As a highly skilled [Skill/Experience], I believe my proficiency and expertise can significantly contribute to the success of your team. In my previous roles at [Previous Company], I was responsible for achieving [Achievement], which resulted in [Positive Outcome].

I am a proactive and detail-oriented individual with excellent communication skills. I am confident that I possess the necessary leadership and problem-solving skills required for this position.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to discussing how I can add value to your organization.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Sample 2: Networking Email

Hello [Contact Name],

I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I have been following your work in [Industry/Field]. I am impressed by your achievements and would love to connect with you.

I am interested in learning more about [Specific Topic/Interest], and I believe your expertise can help me gain some valuable insights. I would appreciate it if you could spare some time to have a quick chat or an email exchange.

Please let me know if this would be possible, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sample 3: Cold Email

My name is [Your Name], and I specialize in [Skill/Service]. I came across your company on [Source], and I am impressed by the work you are doing in [Industry/Field].

I believe my skills and experience can be of great value to your organization. I have worked with [Type of Clients] and have a track record of achieving [Positive Outcome]. I am confident that I can contribute to your team’s success.

Please let me know if you are interested in discussing how I can help your company.

Sample 4: Follow-Up Email

Dear [Contact Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up regarding my application for [Job Title] position.

I remain highly interested in the opportunity to work with [Company Name] and believe my skills and experience align well with the job requirements. I would be grateful for an update on the status of my application and if there are any further steps I need to take.

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

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Email Cover Letter

When crafting your email cover letter, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These mistakes can negatively impact your chances of getting the job you want.

Spelling and grammatical errors

One major mistake to avoid is spelling and grammatical errors. These mistakes can make you appear unprofessional and careless, and can turn off potential employers.

Using informal language

Another mistake to avoid is using informal language. Your email cover letter should maintain a professional tone that reflects your respect for the employer and the company. Avoid using overly colloquial language or slang.

Long emails

Your email cover letter should be concise and to the point. Avoid rambling or including unnecessary details. Long emails can overwhelm potential employers and may cause them to lose interest.

Not attaching the resume or other necessary documents

Don’t forget to attach your resume and any other necessary documents. Failing to do so can make you appear unprepared and may cause the employer to question your attention to detail.

Overusing flattery

While it’s important to show interest and enthusiasm for the position, overusing flattery can come across as insincere or desperate. Keep your language measured and avoid going overboard with compliments.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your email cover letter presents you in the best possible light and increases your chances of landing your dream job.

Email Cover Letter for Different Purposes

In today’s job market, email has become one of the most popular ways of communication for job seekers. While emails are not formal, they still require a professional and well-written cover letter. In this section, we will cover email cover letters for various purposes such as internship application, job application, networking, cold email, and follow-up.

Internship Application:

When it comes to internships, it is important to show your enthusiasm, ambition, and willingness to learn. Begin your email by introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in the specific internship position. Be enthusiastic and genuine, and explain what knowledge or skills you hope to gain from the opportunity. Close your email by thanking the employer for considering your application and express your willingness to discuss the opportunity further.

Job Application:

When sending an email cover letter for a job application, make sure to address the hiring manager by name and introduce yourself. Mention the position you are applying for and how you found out about the job posting. In the body of your email, highlight why you are the ideal candidate for the job. Make sure to include your relevant experience, skills, and achievements. Finally, close your email cordially, thanking the hiring manager for their time and expressing your enthusiasm to learn more about the position.

Networking:

Networking emails are sent to people in your professional network that you are looking to connect or re-connect with. The tone here is less formal, so begin your email by asking how the recipient has been and sharing any updates relevant to the relationship, such as a job change or a new venture. After re-connecting, explain the purpose of the email, and why you are reaching out. Make sure to indicate the value you might bring to the relationship and how you might be able to help one another in the future. Close by thanking them for their time and consideration.

Cold Email:

Cold emails are unsolicited emails you send to people/companies you don’t have any connection with in order to secure a job or request assistance. Generally, these emails should be concise, to the point, and engaging. Start by explaining who you are and your motivation behind the email. Make sure to introduce your skills and explain why you might be a valuable asset to their team/industry. Be clear and direct with your ask, and close your email by thanking the recipient for their time and considering.

When following up on a job interview or application, keep your message brief and specific. Begin by thanking the interviewer/hiring manager for their time and reiterating your interest and enthusiasm for the job. Follow up with a short and concise question or specific request for further consideration, such as asking for feedback or explaining why you are the best fit for the position. Close your email politely and graciously, thanking them once again for considering your application or taking the time to speak with you.

Email Cover Letter for Different Career Levels

When it comes to applying for a job, the cover letter is just as important as the resume. And with the prevalence of email correspondence in the hiring process, email cover letters have become increasingly common. But what works for one career level may not work for another. Here are some tips for crafting email cover letters at different career levels:

Entry-Level Email Cover Letter

As an entry-level candidate, your focus should be on highlighting relevant coursework, internships, and extracurricular activities that demonstrate your potential as a hire. Since you likely don’t have a lot of professional experience, it’s important to convey your enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. Here are some tips for your email cover letter:

• Address the recipient by name.
• Keep your introduction brief and to-the-point.
• Explain why you’re interested in the company and the role.
• Highlight any relevant experience, coursework, or extracurricular activities.
• Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and willingness to learn.

Mid-Level Email Cover Letter

As a mid-level candidate, you should focus on your relevant experience and how it has prepared you for the role you’re applying for. You should also showcase your leadership abilities and problem-solving skills. Here are some tips for your email cover letter:

• Start with a strong opening that highlights your relevant experience.
• Highlight your leadership abilities and problem-solving skills.
• Provide specific examples of how you’ve excelled in your previous roles.
• Convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity and how you can add value to the company.

Senior-Level Email Cover Letter

As a senior-level candidate, you should focus on your industry expertise and the value you can add to the organization. Your email cover letter should showcase your leadership experience and strategic thinking skills. Here are some tips for your email cover letter:

• Start with a strong opening that showcases your industry expertise.
• Highlight your leadership experience and strategic thinking skills.
• Provide specific examples of how you’ve delivered results in previous roles.

No matter what career level you’re at, your email cover letter should be well-written and free of errors. Use these tips as a starting point and tailor your email cover letter to the specific role and company you’re applying to. And don’t forget to follow up after sending your email to show your continued interest in the opportunity.

Email Cover Letter for Different Industries

When it comes to email cover letters, different industries may require a different approach. Here are some tips on how to craft an effective email cover letter for the following industries: marketing, sales, creative, and tech.

When applying for a marketing position, it’s important to showcase your creativity and communication skills. Start with a compelling subject line that clearly states your intention. In the opening paragraph, briefly introduce yourself and your relevant experience. Make sure to mention any successful campaigns you have worked on.

In the second paragraph, highlight your creativity by sharing your thought process behind a successful campaign you have worked on. This demonstrates your ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative ideas.

In the third paragraph, emphasize your communication skills by explaining how you collaborated with team members, clients, and stakeholders to ensure the success of a campaign. End the email with a strong call to action, such as requesting an interview.

When applying for a sales position, it’s important to focus on your sales achievements and abilities. Start with a subject line that mentions your sales track record. Begin the email by introducing yourself and your relevant experience, including your sales experience.

In the second paragraph, highlight your sales achievements by mentioning your sales numbers and any awards you have received. Make sure to include specific examples of successful deals you have closed.

In the third paragraph, explain how you have built strong relationships with clients and demonstrate your ability to identify their needs and present solutions. End the email by asking for an interview and explaining why you would be a strong fit for the position.

When applying for a creative position, it’s important to showcase your creativity and artistic abilities. Start with a subject line that showcases your creativity. In the opening paragraph, briefly introduce yourself and your relevant experience.

In the second paragraph, highlight your creative abilities by sharing examples of your work, such as design portfolios or writing samples. Make sure to explain the thought process behind each piece of work and how it showcases your skills and creativity.

In the third paragraph, explain how you collaborate with team members and clients to bring creative projects to life. End the email by requesting an interview and expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with the company.

When applying for a tech position, it’s important to showcase your technical abilities and problem-solving skills. Start with a subject line that showcases your technical skills. In the opening paragraph, briefly introduce yourself and your relevant experience.

In the second paragraph, highlight your technical abilities by sharing examples of successful projects you have worked on. Make sure to explain the technical details and explain how your problem-solving skills were crucial in your success.

In the third paragraph, explain how you work with team members to ensure the success of technical projects. End the email by asking for an interview and expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to bring your technical skills to the company.

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• Commonly, the persons who handle this kind of situations will try to solve the issue with explanation and negotiations first, then if these fails, through a lawsuit. Make this letter as a chance to correct factual mistakes and misjudgments to try to resolve the issue.
• Accept the complaint document and quickly run down the relevant contents of the complaint.
• Provide factual information about the issue from your understanding, showing the issue into a new or different side.
• End the letter by explaining your judgment that the case is without basis.

SAMPLE LETTER

[Letter Date]

[Subject: Normally bold, summarizes the intention of the letter] -Optional-

Dear [Recipients Name],

I am writing to apply for the teaching position you have recently opened at BrightKids Academy. I graduated with a degree in Education five years ago and had since taken up further study in Child Development. While I have not had the chance to teach at a major school yet, I have gathered a lot of experience by working as a volunteer teacher for the XYZ Foundation. The experiences I have had as a volunteer teacher has provided me with a deeper insight into the responsibilities of an educator. I have also gained a deeper appreciation for the profession, as well as learned many teaching strategies. I have attached a copy of my resume, but I am sure that you will be able to decide better whether I am right for your school or not by speaking with me. As such, I would appreciate the opportunity for a face-to-face interview. Thank you very much for your consideration.

Sincerely, [Senders Name] [Senders Title] -Optional-

[Enclosures: number] - Optional - cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -

Cover letter sample to respond to a job advertisement.

Further things to consider when writing cover letters to human resources

• Cover Letters

Cover letters are letters written to explain the contents of other documents. In most cases, cover letters are sent together with resumes to provide additional information on the applicant's' skills and experience. They explain in detail why the applicants are qualified for the job they are applying for. A cover letter creates a critical first impression as it is often the earliest contact you will have with a potential employer. Employees use cover letters to screen applicants for available positions and to determine the ones that they would like to interview. Cover letters are an essential part of every job application. You, therefore, need to make sure that your cover letter sells your abilities and skills to recruiters. Do not just repeat what is on your resume, rather, explain in details why you feel that you are the best match for the applied job. Do this clearly and concisely, and in such a way that the recipient would want to meet you. Mention the employment position that you are applying for, how you learnt about it and how you are qualified for it. Request the recipient to contact you at the end of the letter.

Letters to Human Resources

Letters to human resources are letters written to the personnel or department that deals with administration, training, and hiring of employees in an organization. The role of human resources personnel is to handle everything from payroll to policy issues and legal grievances. If you have a policy or legal question, a personal issue that affects your work, or a serious problem with a colleague, the first person you may want to contact is a human resources representative. The best way to begin this conversation is by drafting a letter stating your specific problem. When writing letters to human resources, make sure to follow all the rules of a formal letter. Start by addressing your letter to the right person. Write a clear subject line communicating your problem and indicating that action is needed. Set a formal and professional tone early in the conversation. Keep your sentences short and clear and avoid providing more information than is necessary. Describe the issue precisely giving a timeline of when it started. Explain what you have done or think can be done to address the issue. Request for an in-person meeting. Close on a note of anticipation to seeing the issue resolved.

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Free Cover Letter Examples and Sample Cover Letters for All Jobs in 2024

Browse top cover letter examples by job, industry, format, and experience level. Every sample is created and approved by our team of Certified Professional Resume Writers (CPRW).

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Cover Letter Example Categories

• Accounting & Finance
• Arts & Design
• Career Changes and Life Situations
• Child Care and Pet Care
• Computer Sciences and Information Technology
• Construction and Maintenance
• Customer Service and Retail
• Engineering
• Health and Wellness
• Office and Administration
• Public Safety and Community Well-being
• Restaurant and Hospitality
• Sales and Marketing
• Students and Recent Graduates
• Transportation and Logistics

Accounting & Finance Cover Letter Examples

Focus your accounting or finance cover letter on how you can expertly manage assets or raise the company’s bottom line. Name your top three or four achievements, and quantify them in terms of a clear percentage or dollar amount.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Accounting & Finance

All Cover Letter Examples in Accounting and Finance

Arts & Design Cover Letter Examples

Even in your creative field, the cover letter is a simple tool for professional communication and should be formatted that way. Feel free to use a template if it helps you keep your letter simple and focused.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Arts & Design

All Cover Letter Examples in Arts and Design

Business Cover Letter Examples

In today’s competitive business landscape, a cover letter introduces you to employers and can help you advance in your career. To stand out among many candidates, align your cover letter with each job posting.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Business

All Cover Letter Examples in Business

Career Changes and Life Situations Cover Letter Examples

When changing careers, focus your cover letter on your transferable skills and experiences. Only address an employment gap if it’s ongoing and you’re trying to return to the workforce.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Career Changes and Life Situations

All Cover Letter Examples in Career Changes and Life Situations

Child Care and Pet Care Cover Letter Examples

For a strong cover letter in this field, show you can provide a safe and healthy environment for children or pets while building good relations with parents, guardians, or clients.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Child Care and Pet Care

All Cover Letter Examples in Child Care and Pet Care

Computer Sciences and Information Technology Cover Letter Examples

When applying to computer science and information technology (IT) jobs, focus the cover letter on your relevant technical skills. Then, tie each skill to the hiring company’s stated goals.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Computer Sciences and Information Technology

All Cover Letter Examples in Computer Science and Information Technology

Construction and Maintenance Cover Letter Examples

For construction jobs, use your cover letter to highlight projects you’ve worked on of a similar scope or budget. For maintenance jobs, describe similar facilities you’ve worked for and the tools or methods you used to keep them running smoothly.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Construction and Maintenance

All Cover Letter Examples in Construction and Maintenance

Customer Service and Retail Cover Letter Examples

For a good cover letter in customer service and retail, focus on how you can help raise survey scores or drive revenue growth for the franchise location or company that posted the job.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Customer Service and Retail

All Cover Letter Examples in Customer Service and Retail

Education cover letter examples.

When writing your education cover letter, show you can help provide great learning experiences for students of the hiring school or district. If you’re applying to a direct teaching position, emphasize your skills in classroom management and parent relations.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Education

All Cover Letter Examples in Education

Engineering cover letter examples.

To write a good engineering cover letter, focus on how you can help design complex systems or technical solutions for the company that posted the job.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Engineering

All Cover Letter Examples in Engineering

Health and Wellness Cover Letter Examples

You can write a great cover letter for this field by showing how you help people overcome illness or achieve better physical and mental well-being. Give examples from your career that overlap with the employer’s hiring needs or health specialty.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Health and Wellness

All Cover Letter Examples in Health and Wellness

Law Cover Letter Examples

When writing your cover letter for legal jobs, show how you’d apply your expertise to help the firm represent clients or navigate complex legal issues.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Law

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Management cover letter examples.

A good management cover letter expresses how you’d advance business goals and motivate staff of the company that posted the job. Cite achievements that show you’ve helped teams work more quickly or cost-effectively.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Management

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Office and administration cover letter examples.

To draft a strong cover letter for administrative jobs, focus on how you can help the company streamline daily operations for better efficiency or service quality.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Office and Administration

All Cover Letter Examples in Office and Administration

Public safety and community well-being cover letter examples.

For cover letters in this field, pay close attention to the employer’s stated mission. Express how your values align with the organization. Show how you’d help it serve the public, support underprivileged groups, or advance other important causes.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Public Safety and Community Well-being

All Cover Letter Examples in Public Safety and Community Well-being

Restaurant and hospitality cover letter examples.

Hospitality is all about ensuring a great customer experience – on your cover letter, highlight any skills or achievements that show your ability to do just that.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Restaurant and Hospitality

All Cover Letter Examples in Restaurant and Hospitality

Sales and marketing cover letter examples.

Cite your career highlights to impress on employers how you’d help them engage clients, promote products, and drive business growth. Performance data is key to this field, so quantify your results in terms of a clear percentage or dollar amount.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Sales and Marketing

All Cover Letter Examples in Sales and Marketing

Students and Recent Graduates Cover Letter Examples

How to write a cover letter with little or no work experience? Focus on pertinent skills you’ve gained through school coursework, community service , or extracurricular activities. When possible, speak to how the employer’s mission and values align with your own.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Students and Recent Graduates

All Cover Letter Examples in Students and Recent Graduates

Transportation and Logistics Cover Letter Examples

For a good transportation cover letter, focus on how you can expertly move people or goods from point A to point B. For a good logistics cover letter, explain how you’d help the company streamline its workflows or manufacturing procedures.

Most Popular Cover Letters in Transportation and Logistics

All Cover Letter Examples in Transportation and Logistics

Craft a new cover letter in minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Cover Letters

Do i really need a cover letter for my job search.

Yes, in most cases. The majority of job postings require or allow you to send a cover letter along with your resume. While not every hiring manager reads or prioritizes them, a well-crafted letter assists you in standing out from other applicants. It will also help you clarify what points to emphasize during the interview.

What’s the most important part of a cover letter?

Any explanation you give for why the specific job opening or employer interests you. These details distinguish the cover letter from your resume and other application materials. They let you prove you read the job posting and are responding to it specifically. The information also sets the stage for a good discussion about how you fit the role and the company’s work culture.

How do I start writing my cover letter?

Take 10 minutes to brainstorm and jot down why you’re drawn to the opportunity and what it has in common with your background. For instance, maybe it’s in an industry you’re eager to return to or requires certain technical skills you possess.

When you’re done brainstorming, review your notes: Do any stand out as especially important or persuasive? Take another 10 minutes to brainstorm and elaborate on them. Repeat this process until you have at least two or three concise sentences that speak to the job opening at hand. These sentences will form the body text of your letter.

What are the main parts of a good cover letter?

Typically, your cover letter should have five sections, in this order:

1. Heading with your name, contact info, and the date 2. Salutation 3. Hook citing a relevant achievement from your resume or a key qualification the company is looking for 4. Body text describing why the job or employer interests you and your key strengths 5. Closing request for an interview, with thanks for the hiring manager’s consideration

How long should my cover letter be?

No more than one page, or around 250 words. Resist the urge to tell your whole career story. Give just enough detail to intrigue hiring managers so they take a closer look at your resume.

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4 Cover Letter Examples (Plus Tips on How to Write Yours)

We love having examples. It’s so much easier to decorate a cake, build a model, or yes, even write a cover letter when you know what the end product could look like. So that’s what we’re going to give you—all the cover letter examples and tips you need to make yours shine (unfortunately we’re not experts in cake decorating or model building). 

You'll see that writing a cover letter is all about highlighting your relevant skills, professional experience, and accomplishments, while emphasizing your interest for the role in an engaging manner.

Want to get right down to business? Skip ahead to:

Why bother with a cover letter at all?

We bet when you see a job listing that says “ cover letter optional ,” you breathe a sigh of relief, gleefully submit your resume, and move on. But you’re truly doing yourself a disservice by not including a cover letter (or by writing one that’s super generic or formulaic).

“When you’re writing a resume you’re oftentimes confined by space, by resume speak, by keywords—you’re up against a lot of technical requirements,” says Melody Godfred, a career coach and the founder of Write in Color who’s read thousands of cover letters over the course of her career. “In a cover letter you have an opportunity to craft a narrative that aligns you not only with the position you’re applying to but also the company you’re applying to.”

Whether you’re writing a cover letter for a data scientist or marketing manager position, an internship or a senior-level role, a startup or a Fortune 500 company, you’re going to want to tailor it to the role, company, and culture. A strong, customized cover letter will help you explain your value proposition and stand out from the stack of applicants. 

If there’s a gap in your resume , you have the opportunity to explain why it’s there. If you’re changing careers, you have the chance to describe why you’re making the switch. If your resume is pretty dull, a cover letter helps you show some personality . And yes, cover letters still get read.

Deep in the job search, or just browsing? These open jobs on The Muse could be your ideal next step »

What do I write in a cover letter? The 3 basic elements

You'll notice from our cover letter examples that the body of your text can vary a lot depending on factors like the position you're applying for, your career stage, and the type of cover letter requested by the hiring manager. For instance, a writing sample cover letter is different from a traditional professional cover letter (we'll get there soon.)

However, there is some information that you can't leave out. It's important to highlight your most relevant experience, skills, and qualifications for the role in any type of cover letter. Plus, make sure to write an engaging first paragraph to grab the reader's attention, and an effective final paragraph, ideally followed by a call to action, in order to leave a lasting positive impression.

You could say that cover letters are a little like puzzles. When you put each component in its proper place (and remove any parts that don’t fit), you create a complete picture. Even though that picture is always different, the types of pieces are basically the same. We've broken down these three key elements for you:

1. An engaging opener

How you start a cover letter is everything. Your opening lines influence whether someone keeps reading—and you want them to, right? “Starting with something that immediately connects you to the company is essential—something that tells the company that this is not a generic cover letter,” Godfred says. “You have to say something that tells the employer, ‘I wrote this just for you.’”

It can be a childhood memory tying you back to the company’s mission. It can be a story about the time you fell in love with the company’s product. It can be an anecdote from another job or experience showing how hard of a worker you are. Whatever you decide to open with, make it memorable.

2. A clear pitch

Use the next few paragraphs of your cover letter to “hit them with the strongest results you have that are aligned with the opportunity,” Godfred says. Ryan Kahn , Muse career coach and founder of The Hired Group , calls this your pitch. In other words, the part where you’re “selling yourself for the position and why you’re qualified for it.”

Additionally, Godfred says, “If you’re someone who’s transitioning careers, and you need to explain that transition, you do it there.”

This section should have a balance of soft and hard skills . Talk about your experience using Salesforce or doing SEO work, but also highlight your ability to lead teams and communicate effectively.

“Companies are embracing authenticity, they’re embracing humanity, they’re looking for people who are going to fit their culture,” says Godfred. “So what are your values? What do you stand for? These values should be as much a part of your cover letter as the super specialized hard skills.

3. A great closing line

Your closing line could include your next steps or a call to action, Kahn says, such as “ I welcome the opportunity to speak with you more about how I can contribute to the team ,” or, “ I would love to schedule a time for us to discuss this role and my experience. ” But more importantly, “You want to make sure that you’re gracious and thanking them,” he says. While seemingly cliché , it never hurts to end on a simple, “ Thank you for your consideration. ”

Does that sound a bit overwhelming? Don’t panic! We’ve got examples of four types of cover letters below: a traditional cover letter , an impact cover letter , a writing sample cover letter , and a career change cover letter . So let’s take a look at these examples, why they work, and how you can use them to craft your own.

1. The traditional cover letter example

A traditional cover letter is similar to what you’d come up with using position-based cover letter templates . It moves in reverse chronological order through your career history, highlighting parts of your past jobs that make you well suited for this position.

You might want to use this type of cover letter if:

• You’re applying to a more formal company (like a law firm or major healthcare company ) or a more conventional role (like a lawyer or accountant).
• You want to play it safe and conservative with your application materials.

What does the job description say?

Imagine you’re applying to a paralegal job opening at a law firm. The job description might include:

Responsibilities

• Draft routine legal documents for review and use by attorneys
• Coordinate and organize materials and presentations for legal proceedings
• Research legal and related issues and report findings and conclusions to team
• Provide overall legal administrative support to the legal team
• Maintain calendars and ensure timely filings

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent of relevant education and work experience
• Strong communication skills (oral and written)
• Strong organizational , multitasking, and prioritization skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and LexisNexis
• Trustworthy, positive, energetic, and optimistic attitude with a willingness to roll up your sleeves

The cover letter example

Here’s an example of a traditional cover letter you could write for this role—keeping things strictly professional but without sounding too boring or jargon-y:

Dear Ms. Jessica Sanchez,

In my five-year career as a paralegal, I have honed my legal research and writing skills, and the attorneys I’ve worked with have complimented me on my command of case law and litigation support. Spiegel Law Firm’s 20 years in practice proves that the firm has strong values and excellent attorneys, and I’d be eager to join such a talented team.

I currently serve as a paralegal for Chandler, Chandler, and Greene, where I work closely with the partners on a number of high-priority cases. During my time here, I implemented a new calendar system that ensures timely filing of court papers. This system has prevented missed deadlines and allowed for better organization of internal and client meetings.

Previously, as a paralegal for the Neuerburg Law Firm, I received praise for my overall support of the legal team and my positive attitude. While working there, I came up with and implemented a plan for digitizing their old files while still ensuring security and privacy. This led to more efficiency when preparing for client meetings and legal proceedings.

My further qualifications include a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University, a paralegal certificate, and training in LexisNexis, Westlaw, and Microsoft Office Suite.

I would love the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your legal team. Thank you in advance for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Chase Broadstein [email protected] (222) 222-2222

Download this example

Why this works

This cover letter example is short, sweet, and to the point. It shows the candidate has a knack for getting things done in a thorough and timely manner and a track record for helping out wherever needed. The opening lines also express a genuine interest in this specific firm. Plus, there are some important keywords in there like “calendar system,” “bachelor’s degree,” “paralegal certificate,” and “LexisNexis.”

2. The impact cover letter example

The impact cover letter puts your accomplishments front and center rather than organizing your paragraphs by past roles. You might use a cover letter like this if:

• You’re applying for roles where you’re expected to deliver on certain goals or results (for example, if the jobs involve sales quotas or marketing metrics).
• You haven’t followed a straightforward career path and your past job titles don’t show the extent of your qualifications.
• You want your personality to stand out a bit more than it might in a traditional cover letter.

What does the job description say

Imagine you’ve come across an opening for an email marketing manager . Part of the job description states:

• Manage email marketing strategy and calendar, including copywriting, optimization, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on campaigns
• Improve campaign success through conversion optimization, A/B testing, and other experiments
• Collaborate with the design team to ensure brand guidelines are followed in emails
• Partner and collaborate cross-functionally with sales, product, product marketing, and data teams
• 3+ years in email marketing
• Experience with Constant Contact, Google Analytics, HTML, CSS, Photoshop, and Microsoft Excel, a plus
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written) and an eye for copyediting
• Strong interpersonal , relationship-building, and stakeholder management skills
• Excellent project management, problem-solving , and time management skills, with the ability to multitask effectively

Here’s an example of an impact cover letter where the writer’s hard skills and successes stand out:

Dear Russ Roman,

I have a problem. See, my inbox currently (and embarrassingly) hosts 1,500 unread emails—including newsletters from at least 50 different brands.

But this problem only fuels my passion for creating emails that are worth opening. Because from my perspective, as someone who can barely get through their own stack of mail, that’s a true win.

I’ve been following Vitabe for years, and can proudly say that I open every single email you send to me. I’m a sucker for a good subject line—“Take a Vitamin-ute—We’ll A-B-C You Soon” being my favorite—and the way your email content feels both fun and expert-backed really speaks to me. This is why I’m thrilled to submit my application for a role as email marketing manager at your company.

I have over four years of experience working in the email marketing space. In my current role at Westside Bank, I was able to implement new email campaigns centered around reengaging churned clients. By analyzing data around the types of clients who churn and the engagement of our current email subscribers, as well as A/B testing headlines and newsletter layouts, we were able to increase email subscribers by 15% and convert 30% of those subscribers to purchase our product, a significant increase from the previous year. 

I also launched a “Your Credit Matters” newsletter focused on educating our clients on how they spend and manage their credit—which became our highest performing campaign in terms of open-rates and click-through to date.

Previously, as a member of the marketing team at Dream Diary Mattresses, I collaborated with the sales and product team to understand how I could best support them in hitting their quarterly goals. One specific project involving creating personalized emails for customers drew more people to come back to our site after 30 days than direct paid ad campaigns, leading to a 112% increase in revenue from the last quarter.

I take the content I write and the calendars I manage seriously, editing and refining beyond detail-oriented and into meticulous territory, and I feel my experience and drive would greatly help Vitabe further develop their email program for success.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Lad Miller [email protected] (987) 654-3210

This sample cover letter concisely highlights the applicant’s most significant, relevant achievements. By adding context to how their projects were created, monitored, and completed, they’re able to show just how results-driven they are and how they’ve successfully leveraged some of the skills the company is looking for.

One thing worth noting: This person didn’t include keywords such as Constant Contact, Google Analytics, HTML, CSS, Photoshop, or Microsoft Excel—all of which are listed in the job description. But those skills are most likely in their resume already, and leaving them out gives them the space to discuss specific projects and tell a story not visible on other parts of their job application.

3. The writing sample cover letter example

For roles where written communication is key, such as PR, copywriting , or journalism jobs, your cover letter will likely be the first writing sample your future employer sees. So it’s just as important to show your skill set in action through eloquent writing.

• Writing or editing is a key component of the role you’re applying to.
• You want to show off your creativity.

Here’s part of a job description for a staff writer position:

• Pitch and write articles, reporting on timely issues and trends
• Collaborate with editorial and other teams to launch each digital issue and other special projects on schedule
• Evaluate content performance and digital trends on a daily basis to constantly adjust pitches and packaging
• Utilize CMS tools, strategically select photos and videos, and request original graphics to optimize all written content for maximum engagement
• At least 2-3 years of experience creating content at a digital-first outlet
• Strong writing and reporting skills, and the ability to write clearly and quickly
• Familiarity working in a CMS and with analytics tools such as Google Analytics
• Deadline-driven, strategic thinker with a knack for crafting click-y headlines
• Strong collaborator who thrives in fast-paced environments

Have fun with this one, but triple-check for spelling and grammar mistakes, and make sure you’re showing off your best writing. Here's the cover letter sample:

Dear Tai Chen,

Since I could walk, I’ve been dancing. And since I could read, I’ve been glued to Arabesque Weekly. At one point, you featured one of my local heroes—a ballerina who struggled with an injury early in her career and went on to become a principal dancer at Pacific Northwest Ballet—and I plastered the article above my childhood bed. It’s still there today.

That article—and so many others you’ve published—taught me that dancing was about more than just pirouettes and arabesques and that the right kind of writer can shed light on aspects of the art that make it surprising, impactful, and universal. I can be that writer.

As an editorial assistant at TheImprovGroup.com for the past two and a half years, my main responsibility was to get all of our content ready to go live on the site. This included fact-checking, proofreading, adding in HTML where necessary, and finding photos, videos, and GIFs that would complement the content and optimize audience engagement. 

As I tinkered with each post, I became intimately familiar with our internal CMS. Reviewing every single article we published and following reactions and engagement helped me gain a deep understanding of what makes a piece really land with our audience.

But by far my favorite aspect of this role has been writing. Each week, I pitch and write at least one article, from 250-word news items to 900-word advice pieces to even longer profiles, features, and personal essays. I love the challenge of developing pitches that align with the trends we see in the data, reflect with the company’s brand and mission, and allow me to flex my creative muscles.

Collaborating with my team to form the best content library we can has been a dream come true. I would be so excited to use my experience to help Arabesque Weekly achieve its goals. And I hope to one day write a story that another little dance lover tapes to their wall forever.

It would be an honor to be a part of your editorial team, and I look forward to the possibility of discussing the opportunity with you.

Hoping to be your next staff writer,

Marlee Wood [email protected] (555) 666-4433

This candidate is clearly passionate about this specific publication and leads with a unique personal anecdote tied to the company’s mission that demonstrates their ability to tell stories in a compelling way. There are relevant keywords and phrases, sure, but they’re not just thrown in there. Their voice comes through in every sentence, proving this person knows how to communicate effectively and creatively.

4. The career change cover letter example

Cover letters can play a big part in helping career changers prove their qualifications—especially when it’s unclear how their skills transfer over to this new field.

You might write a career change cover letter if:

• You want to highlight the transferable skills you have that relate to the job description.
• You want to explain why you’re making the switch and what’s driving you toward this specific industry, company, or position.

Imagine you’re someone who has experience supporting a sales team as an administrative assistant , and you’re now looking to become a sales representative. You come across a job posting that includes:

• Develop new sales techniques and strategies to build pipeline and hit team goals
• Coordinate with other teams to increase lead-generation efforts
• Assist in the processing of new business, including contacting customers to finalize sales and service transactions
• 1-3 years of successful sales experience
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment
• Ability to work independently to plan, set priorities, and effectively organize work
• Proven ability to be persuasive, persistent, and confident in closing a sale

Typically, this type of cover letter should include a compelling narrative about your career change and how you can transfer your past experiences to this new role. Here’s how you might translate your past experience over to this new (and exciting) prospect:

Dear Maria Russo,

The head of sales at Sunshine Inc. was in a bind. She needed six client meetings scheduled, 18 service transactions processed, and a summary of the team’s new lead generation campaign drafted before getting on a flight to Austin—in three hours. So she turned to her cool-headed, sales-savvy administrative assistant for help. That assistant was me. Not only did I execute everything on her to-do list, I did it all before her plane left the ground.

For three years, I worked in lockstep with a busy, growth-oriented sales leader to support the business development team. As the sole administrative assistant in the department, I balanced a swath of competing priorities, ranging from coordinating meetings and inputting data to contacting customers, finalizing transactions, and creating promotional materials. This role helped me develop a comprehensive understanding of the sales cycle, sales strategy, and pipeline growth.

Like many others, my career path hasn’t been entirely straightforward. After leaving Crabapple Media, I enrolled in a local coding bootcamp. Six months later, I emerged with a certificate in computer programming and a certainty that I did not want to be a coder. But education is never wasted. I’m now an aspiring sales representative with experience supporting a thriving sales team and extensive knowledge of the tech space.

Here’s a little bit more about how my experience would translate into this role:

• At Crabapple Media, I assisted in coordinating three annual sales strategy rollouts, yielding an average increase in pipeline of 26% YoY.
• At Sunshine Inc., I supported 12 independent team members in their lead-generation efforts. I also assisted in processing an average of 300 sales transactions every quarter.
• I thrive in busy, ever-changing environments that require me to communicate clearly and concisely. Supporting a high-volume team and a busy executive helped me to hone these skills—I typically sent more than 200 emails a day!

I would, of course, love to schedule a time for us to discuss this role and my experience, and I truly want to thank you for considering me.

All the best,

Olu Abiola [email protected] (123) 456-789

The opener draws you in and makes you want to learn more. It toots the person’s horn, but in a way that’s substantiated. Then, the next couple sections explain their experience in the sales space and other relevant qualifications, before eventually tying that back to why they’re applying to this specific job. 

Similar to the impact cover letter, the author lists some of the more important qualities they bring to the table, doing a bit of keyword inclusion and resume gap explaining along the way.

Bonus cover letter examples

To further guide you, check out some more cover letter examples:

• Pain point cover letter example
• Internship cover letter example
• Recent graduate cover letter example
• (Another) career changer cover letter example
• Stay-at-home parent returning to work cover letter example
• Sales cover letter example
• Email marketing manager cover letter example
• No job description or position cover letter example (a.k.a., a letter of intent or interest)
• Example cover letter with no experience

Let’s break down one of our example cover letters real quick

All three professional cover letter examples have some key elements that make them great and able to grab the hiring manager's attention. Check out this handy infographic that breaks down our impact cover letter:

A few more cover letter tips

Here are a few more tips to help the cover letter process:

Start with a “brain dump” 

If you’re staring at a blank page, Godfred always recommends that her clients start by getting all their ideas on the page without paying attention to length. Then “ask yourself how you can cut half of it,” she says. You’ll likely find that repeated information and very generic phrases are the first to go. (If it’s still too long, here are some tips for getting your cover letter down to one page .)

Don’t just repeat your resume

You only have so much space to get your point across, so focus on the information that isn’t stated elsewhere rather than simply regurgitating your resume. A good cover letter should complement your resume, so use the opportunity to elaborate your skills and qualifications further, as well as your accomplishments and why you're a good fit for that position.

Focus on quality over quantity 

Target the jobs you’re most closely drawn to and qualified for and give them all your energy, rather than trying to churn out hundreds of cover letters, Kahn says. You may not be able to apply to as many jobs, but you’ll have a better response rate.

Remember the ATS 

Much like your resume, an applicant tracking systems, or ATS , will be sifting through your cover letter. So you’ll want to scatter relevant keywords from the job description throughout your pitch where it makes sense.

Don’t stress over formatting 

You may see flashy cover letter examples across the internet, but for the most part, it just isn’t necessary. An ATS can’t read text that has been formatted beyond using bold, italics, underline, and color, so keep your font and layout simple—especially if you’re submitting your cover letter through an online portal.

Don't forget your contact information

Include your contact information on every page, including your name, phone number, and email. “Imagine you come across a cover letter and you print it out with a bunch of applications to review and it doesn’t have the person’s contact information on it,” Godfred says. “You never want to put yourself in a situation where you’re the right person and they can’t find you.”

Edit your cover letter before submitting

Never submit a cover letter right after you finish writing it—there could be critical errors that you didn't notice while typing. Take some time away from your text, then revisit it like you're reading someone else's letter. Be sure to double-check all the information you've included, paying special attention to:

• The company's name
• The hiring manager's name
• The job title
• Your contact information
• Basic grammar and spelling

You're ready to go

If you've come this far, you're equipped with all the information you need to craft a great cover letter. Hopefully these cover letter examples help as you go to tackle your own. Remember: This is just one small step in the process! Take your time, but learn to move on when you’ve given it your all.

Amanda Cardoso contributed to the latest version of this article.

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

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

You’ve perfected your resume.

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

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

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

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

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

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

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

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

Let’s get started.

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

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

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

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

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

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

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

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

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

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

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

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

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

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

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

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

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

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

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

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

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

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

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

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

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

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

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

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

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

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

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

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

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

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

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

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Google Search

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

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

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

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

In the final paragraph, you want to:

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

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

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

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

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

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

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

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

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

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

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

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

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

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

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

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

Did you conclude your cover letter properly?

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

15 Cover Letter Tips

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

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

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

15+ Cover Letter Examples

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

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

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

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

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

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

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

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

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

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

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

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

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

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

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

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

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

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

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

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

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

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

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

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

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

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

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

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

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

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

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

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

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

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

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

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

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

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

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

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

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

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

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

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

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

My key strengths include:

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

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

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

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

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

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

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

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

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

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

Key Takeaways

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

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

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

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

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

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Targeted Cover Letters (Writing Tips and Samples)

  Caiaimage / Sam Edwards / Getty images

What does it take for your  resume  and cover letter to make an impact when an employer may have received hundreds of resumes for the position you applied for?

Employers can receive a tremendous number of resumes for every position they advertise. It may seem like an almost impossible task for a company to weed through them to find the best applicants to interview, or for you to be one of the selected candidates.

You can help make their job easier, and move your job application to the top of the pile, by writing a targeted cover letter and closely matching your credentials to the job.

How to Make the Cut

Employers do manage to reduce the pool of cover letters and resumes to a manageable number. How they do it can give you some insight into how to write cover letters that will make the cut. Because, if your cover letter doesn't pass muster, your resume won't even get a look.

If your cover letter and resume aren't perfect, they most likely will end up in the reject pile. And perfect means perfect - there should not be any typos or grammatical errors.

Employers typically won't even consider a candidate that they deem is not qualified at first glance. That first glance at your cover letter is your one opportunity to make a good impression and make it to the next round. 

Targeted Cover Letters Writing Tips

It's certainly easier to write generic or blanket cover letters than it is to write a cover letter specifically targeted to each position you apply for. However, if you don't invest the time in writing cover letters, you're probably not going to get the interview, regardless of your qualifications.

Here Are Suggestions on How to Write a Cover Letter for a Specific Job Opening:

Match Your Qualifications to the Job: This takes some time and effort and it's not always easy, but it's important. Take the job posting and list the criteria the employer is looking for. Then list the skills and experience you have. Either address how your skills match the job requirements in paragraph form or make a comparative list of the criteria and your qualifications.

Sample Job Posting: BOX OFFICE MANAGER. Conduct, oversee subscription and ticket sales for events. Generate and maintain reports, perform accounting activities related to box office revenue, oversee operations. Requires customer service skills and accounting experience.

Cover Letter Example 1: Paragraph

As Box Office Assistant for the Light Opera Company, I was responsible for customer service, ticketing patrons, and generating and maintaining box office reports. In addition, I maintained records and accounting reports for all box office transactions.

Cover Letter Example 2: List

Box Office Manager Requirements:

Conduct, oversee subscription and ticket sales for events

Generate and maintain reports, perform accounting activities

Customer service skills and accounting experience

My Skills and Experience:

• Box office management including ticketing, maintenance of records and ticket database management
• Maintain and generate reports
• Box office accounting transaction and reporting
• Customer service, seating, and ticketing patrons

As you can see, in both cases, the candidate has written a detailed cover letter that should survive the first screening. In order to pass that screening, you must specifically address the job ad and state why you are qualified for the position.

Given this competitive job market, it is critically important to target your cover letter and  your resume . That way the employer knows exactly why you are qualified for the position and why they should consider you for an interview.

Targeted Cover Letter Examples 

Here is an example of a targeted cover letter that takes the position requirements and matches the applicant's skills to those requirements. Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Targeted Cover Letter Examples (Text Versions)

Your Name  Your Address  Your City, State Zip Code  Your Phone Number  Your Email

Name  Title  Organization  Address  City, State Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:

I am interested in the Coordinator position advertised on XYZ. My resume is enclosed for your review. Given my related experience and excellent capabilities, I would appreciate your consideration for this job opening. My skills are an ideal match for this position.

Your Requirements:

• Responsible for evening operations in Student Center and other facilities, including managing registration, solving customer problems, dealing with risk management and emergencies, enforcement of department policies.
• Assists with hiring, training, and management of staff. Coordinate statistics and inventory.
• Experience in the supervision of student staff and strong interpersonal skills are also preferred.
• Valid Minnesota driver's license with a good driving record. Ability to travel to different sites required.
• Experience in collegiate programming and management.

My Qualifications:

• Register students for courses, design and manage program software, solve customer problems, enforce department policies, and serve as a contact for students, faculty, and staff.
• Hiring, training, scheduling, and management of staff, managing supply inventory, and ordering.
• Minnesota driver's license with NTSA defensive driving certification.
• Extensive experience in collegiate programming and management.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

I appreciate your taking the time to review my credentials and experience. Again, thank you for your consideration.

Your Signature  (for hard copy letter)

Your Typed Name

In response to your advertisement in the Milliken Valley Sentinel for Vice President, Operations, please consider the following:

Develop and implement strategic operational plans.  15+ years’ aggressive food company production management experience. Planned, implemented, coordinated, and revised all production operations in a plant of 250+ employees.

Manage people, resources, and processes.  Developed and published weekly processing and packaging schedules to meet annual corporate sales demands of up to $50 million. Met all production requirements and minimized inventory costs.

Coach and develop direct reports.  Designed and presented training programs for corporate, divisional and plant management personnel. Created employee involvement program resulting in $100,000+ savings annually.

Ensure operational service groups meet needs of external and internal customers.  Chaired cross-functional committee of 16 associates that developed and implemented processes, systems, and procedures plant-wide. Achieved year-end results of 12% increase in production, 6% reduction in direct operational costs, and increased customer satisfaction rating from 85% to 93.5%.

I welcome the opportunity to visit with you about this position. My resume has been uploaded, per your instructions. I may be reached at the number above. Thanks again for your consideration.

Your Signature  (hard copy letter)

What To Do When You're Not a Strong Match for the Job

What do you do if you don't have the right stuff and it's hard to make the case that you should be considered for the job? It's a certainty that the person with ten years of childcare experience, and no computer experience, who applied for an Oracle programmer position won't get an interview. If your qualifications don't come close to matching the criteria for the job, save your time and the company's time and don’t apply. In most cases, there are too many qualified candidates whose cover letter and resume will make the cut.

Instead, focus on applying for jobs you do qualify for and spend some time gaining the additional skills or education (volunteer, take a class, etc.) you need to prepare to apply for positions that are a rung or two up the ladder. 

Land the Interview: Cover Letter Templates for Job Ads (Free Templates)

Intrigued by your Doe Post ad for a chemical engineer, I'm eager to leverage my experience at Doe Corporation for your new plastics research program. My background includes various polymerization processes and research on aeronautical applications of polyethylene. My passion for plastics started with my graduate thesis on early polyethylene uses at Doe University. My resume details my qualifications. I'm excited to discuss this opportunity further.

Following our conversation with Jane Doe about the clinical director position, I believe my skills and goals perfectly align with your requirements. My six years as a clinical coordinator managing two large units at Springfield resulted in developing two widely-used clinical treatment programs. My postgraduate fellowship in clinical research at Springfield University equips me to manage the experimental units at your main clinic. My attached resume provides more details. I'm eager to discuss how I can address your needs.

Responding to your online ad for a Technical Writer in Springfield University's archaeology lab, I bring a unique combination of archaeological and writing expertise. I hold bachelor's degrees in both fields and possess experience in excavation, lab work (data entry, artifact cataloging, dating methods), and archaeological writing (chapter for Dr. Doe's report). My English background prepares me for diverse audiences, and my creative writing has been published. Under Dr. Doe's guidance, I've honed my archaeological writing skills. Proficiency in popular spreadsheet programs and data analysis further strengthens my qualifications (details on resume). I look forward to discussing my suitability for this position (phone number included on resume).

Building on my experience and recent Master's degree from Springfield University, I'm applying for the English teaching position advertised in The Springfield Herald. My graduate studies focused on adult education, where I developed instructional materials for ESL learners. My exceptional communication, problem-solving skills, and computer literacy make me a valuable asset. With strong interpersonal skills and leadership abilities, I thrive in both independent and collaborative environments. Seeking a full-time opportunity, I'm confident I can contribute significantly to your organization. Please review my attached resume to learn more. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Following the Springfield Herald ad, I'm applying for the Office Manager position. I possess 22 years of experience running a successful carpet cleaning business, managing office staff and a cleaning crew. While my accounting degree is over 20 years old, I've continuously expanded my skills through formal classes, including computer literacy courses (details on resume). I offer a strong work ethic, extensive experience, and a commitment to learning. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further after you review my resume (phone number included).

My passion for health and wellness aligns perfectly with your R&M Health and Fitness position! My BS in health and experience in corporate wellness programs make me a strong candidate. I bring a range of skills, including group exercise instruction, program planning and evaluation, CPR/First Aid certification, excellent organization, and expertise in computer programs. My positive attitude and strong interpersonal skills ensure effective communication (experiences detailed on resume). I've attached my resume for your review and welcome any further information requests. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

A dedicated professional with a knack for multitasking in fast-paced environments, I'm applying for the Administrative Assistant position advertised in the Times News. My self-motivated nature ensures tasks are completed thoroughly and efficiently. My education, skills, and experience equip me to tackle the demands of this position. Your company's success is my priority, and I'm eager to contribute to its growth and profitability. I possess the qualifications needed to excel and become a valuable asset to your team. Let's discuss how my capabilities align with the position's duties. I'm available by phone (number included) or email (address included) to arrange an interview at your convenience. Thank you for considering my application.

Intrigued by your (Name of Newspaper) ad for the (Name of Position) role, I'm submitting my resume for your review. My diverse educational and work experiences have equipped me with the skills and adaptability to excel in this role. My resume provides a glimpse into my qualifications, but a conversation would allow me to showcase the unique value I can bring to your company. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to schedule an interview (phone number included). My enthusiasm for (Name of Company) and the (Name of Position) opportunity motivates me to adjust my schedule for a phone or in-person interview. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Your (Name of Newspaper) listing for the (Name of Position) position piqued my interest, particularly after exploring (Name of Company)'s website and learning more about your company's mission and goals. The information resonated with my own values and career aspirations, solidifying my belief that my skills and background perfectly align with both the (Name of Position) role and the overall culture of (Name of Company).

Confident that my experience can significantly contribute to your team's success, I've attached my resume for your review. I'm eager to delve deeper into the position's specifics and discuss how my qualifications can benefit your organization. Feel free to contact me at any time to schedule an interview (phone number included). My enthusiasm for (Name of Company) makes me readily available to accommodate your scheduling needs. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to connecting with you soon.

How to Write this Cover Letter: Expert Tips and Guidelines

Pay particular attention to information requested in the advertisement. Be sure to provide it in detail, drawing attention to your strengths. Create a confident tone and a smooth flow. Use more formal but impactful phrasing. Emphasize your value proposition. Showcase your passion and commitment.

• Identify the newspaper, magazine, person, or other source from which you learned about the position. Specify what job you seek and briefly describe your major qualifications for the position.
• Expand on your most important work experience by providing specific details, cases, and examples. If you are qualified for the position only by your education and have no real job experience, you may want to omit this section.
• Explain how your education has prepared you for the position by discussing such things as significant courses, seminars, professors, presentations, projects, etc.
• Discuss other qualifications relevant to the position.
• Refer to your enclosed or attached resume and the kind of information that can be found there.
• Solicit an interview and provide information about how and when you can be contacted.

Write Your cover in Minutes: Easy Step-by-Step Guide with Sample Sentences and Phrases

1 identify the newspaper, magazine, person, or other source from which you learned about the position. specify what job you seek and briefly describe your major qualifications for the position., sample sentences for step 1.

• I saw your classified advertisement in the Doe News regarding a position as a lab technician. I am confident that I have the qualities and skills you specified.
• Mr. Johnson, a business associate, told me about an opening in your company for a construction estimator. I believe I have the education and work experience you are looking for.
• A professor in the Communications Department at Doe State University told me that you are looking for a Public Relations Director and suggested that I send you my resume.
• I read your ad in the Springfield County Journal requesting "a self-motivated programmer in C, UNIX, and Windows."
• I am submitting my resume in response to your recent advertisement in the Daily News for a civil engineer. ? I was pleased to see your recent ad in the Doe Street Journal for an account executive because your specifications appear to perfectly match my qualifications and experience.
• I am applying for the Research Technician position that you recently advertised in the Doe Post. I am certain that I have the training and experience you are looking for.

Key Phrases for Step 1

• perfectly match my qualifications
• according to the advertisement
• am submitting my resume
• am applying for
• am confident that
• am certain that
• an ideal candidate for the position of
• are compatible with
• as described in
• as indicated in your job description
• as advertised in
• believe I have the training
• believe that my qualifications
• caught my attention
• have the personal qualities and skills
• hope you will consider
• in response to your advertisement
• in answer to your advertisement
• is the position for which I have been trained
• looking for an opportunity to
• position sounds interesting and challenging
• position interests me because
• read your ad in
• regarding the position of
• the job I have been looking for
• the notice in last week's edition of
• the qualifications you are looking for
• that you advertised in
• your specifications appear to be

2 Expand on your most important work experience by providing specific details, cases, and examples. If you are qualified for the position only by your education and have no real job experience, you may want to omit this section.

Sample sentences for step 2.

• Administrative/Office Support Because of my broad secretarial background in various settings, I feel I would be an asset to your company. I spent five years working in several different departments at First National Bank of Doe. Skills I developed there enabled me to progress from bookkeeper to Trust Operations Secretary for the Executive Vice President of the bank.
• I have been Dr. John Doe's executive medical secretary for the past two years. My responsibilities include transcribing medical records, billing insurance, making appointments, greeting patients, scheduling hospital tests, and handling correspondence.
• During the past three years I have served as legal secretary for a large San Francisco law firm. I am fluent in Spanish and am certified by the state as an interpreter.
• Accounting/Financial My energy, experience and skill are focused in one direction: maintaining my company's financial records in impeccable condition and above reproach.
• I was instrumental in introducing computerized methods into the accounting process at Doe Corporation at a time when computers were still innovative and regarded with much skepticism. Since then, I have continually worked to keep the equipment here up to date and operated by competent people.
• As proven through several IRS audits, the result of this strict attention to detail and efficient use of technology has been an accounting system above reproach.
• I have experience in several areas of international banking.
• Computer I have worked as a database programmer and a network supervisor in multi-user environments for the past two years. I have written a wide variety of database programs dealing with problems such as accounting, order entry, inventory tracking, marketing analysis and labeling. I am fluent in C, C++, Pascal, Magic PC, and have experience in the Windows environment. I have also been responsible for maintenance and repair of all of the company's computers.
• Engineering You requested more information about my experience in California. I was on-site engineer on six highway bridges while working for the Doe Company, and supervised the seismic retrofitting project on the San Francisco Bay Bridge following the 1989 earthquake. All of this work required adherence to state specifications and close cooperation with state engineers and inspectors.
• Hotel/Restaurant Management I have managed large catering operations for the last 15 years, providing food service for different groups and tastes, including construction crews, movie extras, weddings and corporate groups. I have the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to provide high quality service on time and within budget.
• Manufacturing Operations Management During the 15 years I worked for Doe Corporation, I was instrumental in doubling the size of the company and radically increasing its market share.
• Research Science I am well qualified for a position as a research technician because of my experience working with various research projects. While pursuing my degree at Doe University, I performed many tasks dealing with plant breeding and genetics. I have experience in generating and maintaining tissue cultures, collecting data, maintaining experimental viability, and observing and evaluating results.
• I am familiar with the general techniques required for molecular biological experimentation through my research experience as a lab technician. In this setting I performed many general molecular manipulation procedures required in genetic research. I am proficient in DNA extraction, gene cloning, RAPD amplification, and restriction digest cutting and analysis.
• Operations Management During the 15 years I worked for Doe Corporation, I was instrumental in doubling the size of the company and radically increasing its market share.
• Public Relations/Advertising I have worked as a Public Relations Representative with several industries that have had public image problems, including nuclear power and industrial waste disposal. My public relations campaigns have demonstrably changed public opinion and perception.
• Technical I qualified as an aircraft maintenance technician through on-the-job training during my six years in the military as an avionics equipment repairman.

Key Phrases for Step 2

• a wide variety of
• ability to perform at
• am expert in
• am fluent in
• am qualified as a
• am responsible for
• am currently supervising the work of
• among other things, this work involved
• as a result of my experience in
• because of my broad background in
• certified by the state as
• enabled me to progress from
• energy, experience, and skills are focused on
• extensive experience in
• for the last three years
• have confidence in my ability to
• have the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to
• have had considerable experience with
• have been working in the office of
• have continually pressed for
• have developed skills in
• have a broad background in
• in several different areas
• introduced improved methods of
• provided high quality service
• responsibilities have included
• skills I have developed there include
• spent five years working as a
• that enable me to
• this position involved
• was instrumental in
• work experience includes
• worked in several different departments at
• worked in close cooperation with
• would like to be closely involved in
• would be an asset to

3 Explain how your education has prepared you for the position by discussing such things as significant courses, seminars, professors, presentations, projects, etc.

Sample sentences for step 3.

• Accounting In a few more weeks, I will complete my accounting degree at Springfield State University. In addition to the standard accounting courses, I have minored in Spanish. I am fluent in the language and fully prepared to work with your Spanish-speaking clients.
• Administrative Support I am a recent graduate of the Secretarial Science program at Springfield Community College where I took courses in Typing, Dictation, Office Machines, WordPerfect, Lotus 123, Technical Writing, and Office Management.
• I recently completed an Administrative Assistant certification program at Springfield Community College, which included proficiency training and testing in WordPerfect and other word processing programs.
• Advertising I have prepared myself for a career in advertising by attending Springfield State, where I received a bachelor's degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in International Business.
• Computer I plan to graduate with a bachelor's degree in Computer Science in December of this year. I have programming experience in UNIX, Windows, Pascal, C, and C++ programming.
• I am currently studying Computer Science at Doe where I have become proficient in the C programming language and use of the UNIX operating system. Projects I have written include a 32-bit operating system, data base, graphics system, data management system and many other programs. Most of these projects were written under the UNIX operating system. I have also taught myself how to program in the Windows operating system.
• Construction Management I took a degree in Construction Management from Springfield State University five years ago, and am still happy with the high quality of training I received there. I know many people like to emphasize experience and poke fun at "theory," but I have frequently found myself ahead of my peers who did not seek degrees, especially when it comes to understanding and using the new technology that seems to be flooding the industry.
• Engineering My degree in Mechanical Engineering from Springfield University has prepared me for the kind of communications work you described in your advertisement. I took several courses in communication systems and participated in the design of a new system during my internship with NASA.
• My expected degree from Springfield State University is designed to provide a cutting-edge background in Engineering. I have taken courses in instrumentation and have studied systems for reducing noise and vibration of components. I have designed and built both high and low pass filters, and have hands-on experience with accelerometers.
• I just received my B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Springfield State University, and my education has provided me with the knowledge necessary to deal with all levels of complexity associated with polymers.
• I am a recent graduate of Springfield State University, and during my two years there as an Electrical Engineering student, I was frequently on the Dean's List for academic achievement.
• Hotel/Restaurant Management I received my degree in Restaurant and Hotel Management at Doe University in 1988.
• Legal I completed my law degree at the University of Springfield, graduating in the top 25 percent of my class. My area of expertise, by training and experience, is in riparian rights.
• Operations Management My Doe University BSME and MBA degrees make me a strong candidate for consideration in a variety of operations management positions.
• I will complete my MBA at Springfield State University in a few more weeks, and am eager to apply the skills I have acquired from one of the finest programs in the country.
• Research Science I am currently a senior at Doe, where I maintain a 3.7 GPA. I will graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology and a minor in Microbiology in April. Much of my experience with genetic research comes from working with DNA cloning and DNA restriction digest cutting and analysis. I intend to become a research scientist.
• The microbiology program at Springfield State University has taught me valuable skills such as research and investigative methods, lab skills, data processing, verification techniques, instrumentation, and graphing and reporting results.
• While earning my degrees from Doe University in Human Biology and Molecular Biology, I have learned the essential components and techniques of research. I have also gained laboratory experience in chemistry and molecular biology. I am confident that I am now on the path that will allow me to realize my career goals.
• Sales I have prepared myself for a position in medical sales by completing an undergraduate degree in biology at Springfield State College with a minor in Communications.

Key Phrases for Step 3

• a bachelor's degree in
• am fully prepared to work with
• am a recent graduate of
• carried a minor in
• currently a senior at
• currently studying at
• deal with all levels of
• eager to apply the skills I have acquired
• education has provided me with
• expect to receive my degree within
• for a position in
• fully prepared to work with
• has prepared me to
• has taught me valuable skills
• have the ability to
• have designed and built
• have learned the essential techniques of
• have had experience in
• have hands-on experience with
• have prepared myself for a career in
• have become proficient at
• have received training in
• have worked with
• in the top 10 percent of my class
• maintained a GPA of
• obtained a thorough grounding in
• one of the finest programs in the country
• papers I have written include
• participated in the
• plan to graduate with
• projects I have designed include
• received a degree in
• received a thorough grounding in
• taught myself how to
• took part in the
• completed a degree in
• took courses in
• understand the use of
• will complete my degree in

4 Discuss other qualifications relevant to the position.

Sample sentences for step 4.

• I also meet your specifications for a "computer literate person." This ability has been acquired through certification programs and on-the-job experience.
• I am a hard worker, a quick learner, and an enthusiastic problem solver with experience in translating requests into working programs.
• I speak, read, and write Japanese fluently. Additionally, I am familiar with the culture because I lived in Japan for two years.
• Along with my experience in the field, I am also active in the community. I feel that people involved in real estate should be informed about local issues and be sensitive to community feeling.
• I will provide references if our discussions develop further.
• I am willing to both relocate and travel, according to the company's needs.
• Much of my employment has been overseas.
• I will be happy to provide references at your request.
• I am interested in a position that offers long-term stability in one area.

Key Phrases for Step 4

• a great supporter of
• able to speak, read, and write in
• active in the community
• along with my experience in
• always been a quick learner
• am willing to relocate
• am familiar with your company's
• am interested in a position that offers
• an enthusiastic problem-solver
• enjoy participating in
• familiar with the culture of
• familiar with your company's procedures
• former intern with
• have worked as a volunteer for
• have an abiding interest in
• have learned to
• have followed the growth of your company
• interested in a position that offers
• is a longtime hobby of mine
• meet your specifications for
• on-the-job experience in
• received an award for
• social and business contacts offer
• that offers long-term stability
• wide experience in the field of
• will provide references
• will travel as necessary
• willing to relocate
• with experience in
• with volunteer experience at

5 Refer to your enclosed or attached resume and the kind of information that can be found there.

Sample sentences for step 5.

• My attached resume provides details of my experience.
• I have attached a copy of my resume describing my skills and accomplishments.
• My credentials are summarized in the enclosed resume. I will be happy to provide additional information and references as necessary.
• I will provide references.
• I will be happy to provide references.
• My qualifications for this position are detailed in my enclosed resume.
• Please refer to my enclosed resume for further details.

Key Phrases for Step 5

• a strong background in
• am interested in a position in
• are detailed in my resume
• as they relate to your requirements
• at your request
• credentials are summarized in
• describing my skills and accomplishments
• highlights some of my achievements
• in the attached resume
• list of credentials
• plus extensive experience in
• provides details of my experience
• qualifications for this position
• my resume is enclosed
• the enclosed copy of my resume
• the attached copy of my resume
• will provide additional information
• will provide additional references

6 Solicit an interview and provide information about how and when you can be contacted.

Sample sentences for step 6.

• If you are interested in what I have to offer your company, please give me a call at 555-5555, and I'll be happy to meet with you.
• I look forward to having a personal meeting with you after you have had time to consider my resume.
• I am eager to discuss my qualifications with you in relation to the needs of Doe Corporation. I will call your office in a few days to follow up.
• I am interested in filling the Laboratory Technician position you advertised and feel I can be an asset to your organization. I will call you next week to answer any questions you may have and arrange a time for a meeting.
• I believe I can make a valuable contribution to your company and would like to set up a meeting to discuss the position in more detail.
• I look forward to speaking with you in person.

Key Phrases for Step 6

• a personal meeting with you
• after you have had time to
• after reading my resume
• am interested in filling the
• am eager to discuss
• am available to meet at
• at your convenience
• can make a valuable contribution
• can be an asset to
• can reach me at
• discuss in more detail
• discuss my skills and your needs
• discuss my qualifications with
• education and experience can meet your needs
• for the position of
• look forward to
• meet your company's needs
• schedule an interview with
• set up a meeting
• speak with you directly
• to arrange an interview with
• to meeting with you
• to offer your company
• will be happy to meet with you
• would be happy to meet with you

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Job Posting Responding Letter Template

Firstly, you must express your gratitude to the recruiter of the company for the job posting on a certain date. You must express your eagerness to work in the company.  You must reveal that you have all the necessary qualifications to fulfill the responsibilities in the company.

You need to remind the recruiter about the information you have shared through your resume regarding your job experience and qualification. You can assure the recruiter of delivering the best. 

Letter Template: 1

(Your name)

(Your address)

(Your contact information)

(Name of the Recipient)

(Address of the Recipient)

(Contact Information of the Recipient)

Sub: Letter to respond to a job posting

Dear (Name of the Recipient),

I am writing this letter to show my gratitude towards you for posting this job opportunity of (mention the details of the job) on your company (mention the name and details of the company) on the date of (mention the date).  I am really grateful to be considered as one of the skilled candidates for serving your company.

I was eagerly looking for a good position to prove myself and my skills and I was very excited by knowing about your company and its workings in the field of (mention the details). I am very excited to be able to get the opportunity to work with you as one of your workers.

As you may see in my resume that I have experience of more than (mention details) in this field. And I am confident that I won’t disappoint you.

I do hope that you will definitely contact me for this recruitment process of your company.

Thank you very much for your understanding.

With regards,

(Hand-written Signature)

(Notary or witness if required)

Download Template : ( pdf, docs, ODT, RTF, txt, HTML, Epub, Etc )

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