cover letter to secretary of state

american history

• the constitutionally repugnant reconstruction acts imposed the 14th amendment via martial law powers in time of peace
• free at last
• america - some assembly required
• understanding the new world order
• quick start guide
• There is No "Fourteenth Amendment"!

three constitutions

• three constitutions (this article in development)

correct your status

• correcting your political status
• a call to action that can no longer wait
• 1779 vs. 928s

Declaration of Political Status

• the truth about the irs
• global sovereign's handbook
• State Citizen Passport

driving and traveling

• right to travel without a license
• the twelve presumptions of court
• judicial notice / demand for rights
• 18 U.S. Code § 241 - conspiracy against rights
• 18 U.S. Code § 242 - deprivation of rights under color of law

reconstruction

• who and what is the state assembly
• who controls whom
• structure of the original government to be reconstructed
• the american government
• the jural assembly handbook

corporate documents

• Hospitals and Physicians Handbook on Birth Registration and Fetal Death Reporting

the academy

Correct your status: 101.

• Articles coming soon

reconstruction: 101

• CRACKING THE CODE

state enactments

Florida state enactments, 3 out of 5 stars.

Letter to Secretary of State

How can we improve this article, please submit the reason for your vote so that we can improve the article..

Secretary Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write a Secretary Cover Letter

To generate traction during the job search, build an accomplishment-driven secretary cover letter demonstrating your communication and administrative skill sets. Show potential employers how you can help refine office operations, improve scheduling processes, and coordinate client communications effectively. Our guide includes cover letter examples and expert tips to help capture your experience and land your next job interview.

Secretary Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Secretary Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Aliya Jackson Secretary | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Miami, FL 12345 | LinkedIn

January 1, 2024

Pat Martin Senior Hiring Manager Miami Cancer Institute (987) 654-3210 patmartin@miamicancerinstitute,org

Dear Pat Martin:

I’m interested in applying for the medical secretary position with Miami Cancer Institute. During my time with Ormond Beach Oncology Associates, I coordinated with physicians, nurses, and office personnel to enhance patient flow, resulting in a 20% reduction in wait times and a 92% patient satisfaction rating. I can achieve similar results for your organization in this role.

Miami Cancer Institute’s reputation for its comprehensive clinical standards is what excites me about this opportunity . Throughout my career as a medical secretary, I’ve communicated with empathy and compassion while interfacing with patients suffering from debilitating and life-threatening health conditions. I can help your team continue to improve the patient experience based on my previous achievements:

• Fielded phone inquiries for new and existing patients, managed appointment scheduling, conducted new patient orientations, and handled electronic medical records
• Managed physician calendars, resolved scheduling conflicts, interfaced with diverse patient populations, and contributed to an organization-wide 92% patient satisfaction score
• Conducted patient scheduling, registration, and data entry for a medical office with over 250 patients, updated health records, and ensured compliance with HIPAA

I look forward to scheduling an interview to tell you more about how my background as a medical secretary can help further enhance patient-care delivery at Miami Cancer Institute. Feel free to contact me via phone or email for any additional questions you may have on my background. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Aliya Jackson

Allison Rosenberg Secretary | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | San Diego, CA 12345 | LinkedIn

Hector Santos Senior Hiring Manager Richardson and Stone Legal Associates (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Santos:

I’m reaching out to apply for the secretary position with Richardson and Stone Legal Associates that I found on LinkedIn. As you can see from my resume, I have over five years of secretarial experience in established law firms. My expertise in administrative support and calendar management would be a strong asset to your team in this role.

Richardson and Stone Legal Associates’ reputation as a leading personal injury firm is what draws me to apply for this opportunity. At Haden Law Group, I fielded inquiries from potential clients, drafted correspondence, and liaised with clients, defense counsel, and courtrooms. I can support legal operations for your firm based on my career achievements:

• Provided administrative support to legal teams, drafted correspondence, coordinated client communications, managed calendars, and organized physical and electronic files to support multi-million dollar legal cases
• Maintained client and firm files, coordinated conference room meetings, purchased office supplies, and oversaw invoicing procedures
• Managed attorney calendars, scheduled client appointments, and verified court dates

I’d like to set up an interview to discuss how my experience as a secretary and legal assistant can provide value to your law firm. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Best regards,

Allison Rosenberg

Kevin Morrison Secretary | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Boston, MA 12345 | LinkedIn

Lori Taylor Senior Hiring Manager OrthoBoston (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Taylor,

During my time as the secretary for Providence Orthopedics, I overhauled my department’s data gathering protocols to successfully reduce pre-surgical file omissions by 98%. This project significantly improved the availability of crucial medical information and saved over 15 work hours per week. I look forward to leveraging my outstanding organizational skills as the pre-admissions department secretary at OrthoBoston.

As a seasoned administrator with 12 years of experience providing efficient secretarial support in hospitals, I am drawn to OrthoBoston’s reputation for exceptional patient care. I would relish utilizing my skills and experience to ensure seamless treatment pathways for your service users. Some of my recent achievements include:

• Streamlined the post-meeting administrative process to ensure swift follow-up on assignments, contributing to a departmental productivity increase of 26% in 2023
• Trained five new hires and identified opportunities to enhance performance and service quality, which supported a 10% increase in patient satisfaction
• Implemented a new patient scheduling system that freed up an average of five appointments per practitioner per week

I look forward to speaking with you further about how my secretarial experience within the health care field can help your organization continue to deliver exceptional patient care. You may contact me via phone or email at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Kevin Morrison

Writing a great secretary cover letter requires a creative approach that differs from many other types of positions. This is because your day-to-day administrative duties might not always seem like genuine achievements. That said, your contributions are vital to daily operations, and it’s important to emphasize the true value you bring to your teams and organizations. Below, we’ll provide guidance to help you capture the most compelling aspects of your professional experience in your secretary cover letter:

1. Contact information and salutation

List all essential contact information at the top of your secretary cover letter, including your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. Greet the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” This shows you’ve taken the time to research the company before applying and demonstrates your genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity.

2. Introduction

Lead your secretary cover letter with a strong introduction to convey your interest in the job and grab the attention of the hiring manager. Build your paragraph around one of your most impressive career achievements, preferably backed by an eye-catching number or metric. Be sure to highlight your expertise in administrative support, client communications, and calendar management, skills especially important for secretarial roles.

In the example below, the applicant highlights the impact of their administrative support on a doctor’s office. Showcasing hard data in a similar manner is a great way to bolster the impact of your achievements on your secretary cover letter.

3. Body paragraphs

In the body paragraphs of your secretary cover letter, highlight your qualifications and career achievements as a secretary. Start by mentioning something specific about the company’s culture, reputation, or mission statement and why you’re enthusiastic about the opportunity. Feature tangible examples of the value you bring as a secretary and administrative professional, emphasizing quantifiable results. Consider adding a list of bullet points to break up the text on the page and improve the readability of your document.

Notice how the candidate below leverages their administrative experience within the health care field. Clinical environments are often fast-paced and high-stress, and yet the secretary has consistently found ways to improve operational efficiency and patient satisfaction throughout their career. Emphasizing your proven track record of success is essential for building a stand-out secretary cover letter.

As a seasoned administrator with 12 years of experience providing efficient secretarial support in hospitals, I am drawn to OrthoBoston’s reputation for exceptional patient care. I would relish using my skills and experience to ensure seamless treatment pathways for your service users. Some of my recent achievements include:

4. Secretary skills and qualifications

Rather than simply listing key skills on your secretary cover letter, tactically incorporate keywords from the job posting into your paragraphs. Feature examples of you utilizing various administrative skill sets in professional business environments. Below, we’ve gathered a wide range of potential skills you can add to your secretary cover letter:

5. Closing section

The conclusion of your secretary cover letter should feature a call to action (CTA) that encourages the hiring manager to bring you in for an interview. This displays your confidence and genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration in the last sentence of the paragraph.

Secretary Cover Letter Tips

1. feature your expertise in administrative support.

Secretarial positions require strong organizational and administrative skill sets. As you craft your cover letter, call out these qualifications using specific instances from your work history. In the example below, the candidate demonstrates their ability to manage calendars, correspondence, and documentation for a premier law firm. This helps to convey how their experience can help refine operations for potential employers:

2. Highlight your communication and client relations skills

As a secretary, you’ll be responsible for fielding inquiries and managing client communications on a daily basis. Hiring managers want to see how you’ve leveraged these skills throughout your career. In the example below, the applicant highlights their background interfacing with patients suffering from debilitating and life-threatening conditions, especially valuable when applying for secretarial positions in health care:

Miami Cancer Institute’s reputation for its comprehensive clinical standards is what excites me about this opportunity. Throughout my career as medical secretary, I’ve communicated with empathy and compassion while interfacing with patients suffering from debilitating and life-threatening health conditions. I can help your team continue to improve the patient experience based on my previous achievements:

3. Align your cover letter with the job description

Tailoring your cover letter towards individual job descriptions is the best way to maximize your chances of landing the interview. In addition to mentioning specifics about the organization’s reputation or culture, convey how your industry knowledge and experience make you a good fit for the role. Below, the candidate emphasizes their background working in the legal field, which sends a clear message they can adapt to the needs of prospective law firms:

Richardson and Stone Legal Associates’ reputation as a leading personal injury firm draws me to apply for this opportunity. During my time with Haden Law Group, I fielded inquiries from potential clients, drafted correspondence, and liaised with clients, defense counsel, and courtrooms. I can support legal operations for your firm based on my career achievements:

Secretary Cover Letter FAQs

Why should i submit a secretary cover letter -.

Although most job applications won’t require a cover letter for secretary positions, including one is a great way to showcase your written communication skills and make a strong first impression on the reader. Because most candidates won’t be submitting a cover letter, taking the time to craft a customized document may actually help differentiate you from the competition during the job search.

How do I make my secretary cover letter stand out? -

To maximize the value of your cover letter, provide unique insights into who you are as a professional using more personalized language in comparison to the resume. Convey your story using key examples from your professional history. This will help send a clear message that you have the necessary qualifications for the role and that you’re a good fit for the company’s culture.

How long should my cover letter be? -

In most situations, a concise yet compelling cover letter will be more beneficial to your job application. Limit your cover letter to three or four paragraphs, keeping the reader’s focus on your most notable accomplishments. Secretary job descriptions are often generic, and omitting bland details will only make your document stronger.

Craft a new cover letter in minutes

Get the attention of hiring managers with a cover letter tailored to every job application.

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

Check Out Related Examples

Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Medical Receptionist Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Receptionist Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Build a resume to enhance your career.

• Drop “To Whom It May Concern” for These Cover Letter Alternatives Learn More
• How To Describe Your Current Job Responsibilities Learn More
• Top 10 Soft Skills Employers Love Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Write a Resume Learn More
• How to Write a Cover Letter Learn More
• Thank You Note Examples Learn More
• Resignation Letter Examples Learn More

• Resume Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Resume Examples Nurse Student Internship Teacher Accountant View all
• Resume Builder
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover Letter Examples Nursing Administrative Assistant Internship Graduate Teacher View all
• Cover Letter Builder

Secretary cover letter example

Take a letter! Historically, one of a secretary’s most basic functions has been to turn a supervisor’s sometimes jumbled thoughts into a well-written, properly formatted letter. 

So when seeking a secretarial job, it should be right up your alley to write an effective, persuasive and professional secretary's cover letter to accompany your resume. And as we’ll see in this guide, it will greatly increase your chances of landing the job if you do so.

Resume.io is an expert source of advice and support for every cover letter preparation step. We’ve developed a wide selection of occupation-specific writing guides and free cover letter examples , plus field-tested templates and builder tools to help you create both resumes and cover letters. Our blog information covers the gamut of job search topics, from practical document formatting tips to thank-you letter writing

Here’s what we’ll discuss in this writing guide, backed by a secretary cover letter example: 

• The changing role and job outlook for secretaries
• Why a cover letter is crucial for a secretary
• Format for structuring a secretary's cover letter
• How to achieve the goal of each cover letter part: header, greeting, introduction, body and conclusion
• Design and formatting of a secretary cover letter
• Writing psychology: tips for a convincing cover letter
• Common mistakes you need to avoid.

In recent decades, the word “secretary” has fallen out of favor somewhat, replaced with terms like “administrative assistant.” But many of the duties remain the same, including handling correspondence, filing, bookkeeping, scheduling and answering phones. 

The bad news is, a 7% decline in the job outlook for secretaries and administrative assistants is projected from 2020 through 2030 in the U.S., according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . 

This is due in part to advances in technology that enable executives to prepare their own documents without any help. In 1970, for example, it would have seemed strange for a CEO to type his own letters, but today it would be odd to find a CEO who doesn’t send his own emails. 

Employment projections for secretaries and administrative assistants in the U.S., 2020-30, according to the BLS:

Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/secretaries-and-administrative-assistants.htm#tab-6

What the coming job squeeze means to you is that you need an outstanding job application to compete for a shrinking number of jobs. And that means you’ll need an excellent resume and cover letter. 

Take a moment to review the resume guides already prepared by resume.io for executive assistants and legal assistants . It’s helpful to have your resume done before writing your cover letter, because they’ll need a similar design, and the content of your resume can help you determine what to say in your cover letter.

Here’s what this guide will discuss:

• How a secretary’s cover letter should be structured
• How a secretary’s cover letter should be formatted
• Tips for writing a convincing cover letter

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

For more ideas and inspiration, check out these cover letter writing guides and examples in the related administrative category:

• Customer Service Representative cover letter sample
• Administrative Assistant cover letter sample
• Receptionist cover letter sample
• Office Administrator cover letter sample
• Office Assistant cover letter sample
• Office Manager cover letter sample
• Personal Assistant cover letter sample
• Administrative Officer cover letter sample
• Call Center cover letter sample
• Administrative cover letter sample
• Front Desk Receptionist cover letter sample
• Virtual Assistant cover letter sample

A cover letter is an introduction, a handshake from afar, an attempt to establish a personal connection to a hiring manager. It’s also a matter of simple etiquette — you are asking for a job, so you need to ask . 

A resume is a somewhat stark and impersonal listing of your job experience, qualifications and skills. A resume isn’t addressed to anyone, and it doesn’t address the specific needs of a potential employer. 

But a cover letter offers the opportunity to showcase your personality, enthusiasm and likability. Nobody wants to work with someone they don’t like, so use your cover letter to demonstrate that you are an upbeat, positive professional.

Surveys of hiring managers have found that one of the top reasons resumes are rejected is because they were sent without a cover letter. 

A few employers sometimes request that you send a resume only. But unless you’re specifically asked otherwise, always include a cover letter with a resume.

Best format for a secretary’s cover letter

A cover letter should almost always be a maximum of one page, or some 400 words. And it should follow a defined structure that includes the following:

• Greeting / salutation
• Introduction
• Conclusion / call to action

Dear Mrs. Dayton,

Having worked as a personal assistant and secretary for five years, I am looking for my next challenging role. My previous secretarial work at two tech companies has given me the best possible foundation to assist you.

I am a digital native and passionate about utilising the latest AI advances to make my work more efficient. I adopted a mobile-first strategy with my previous boss, allowing us to keep informed and updated on the go. My job is to take every opportunity to make their life easier.

Leading the digital revolution within my organization, I reduced paperwork by 95% and improved the effectiveness of both audit results and business analysis projects, with an annual cost saving of $25-30k.

My time management skills are top-notch, arranging 30+ meetings and lunches every week, with up to 50 attendees per event. I am a big believer in developing personal relationships with everyone involved – you need them to be opening your emails.

I use my initiative to overcome problems and communicate with others where possible to find solutions independently. I will not come running to my boss for help unless I really need it.

The stresses of modern business mean that a secretary should be able to offer psychological support to their boss as well as operational support. I view my role as an emotional cheerleader as well as a reliable organizer. I am thoughtful, patient, and astute.

I would value the chance of an interview to explore whether there might be a fit. Your marketing manager Harris Jones suggested that I should get in touch.

Dara Spencer

Here’s what each of these components should contain:

Cover letter header

In the old days, companies would order reams of fine paper that were blank except for a letterhead — a space at the top containing the company’s name, address, phone number and perhaps a color logo. A secretary would take one of these pages, roll it into a typewriter and get busy writing a letter.

Today that letterhead is known in electronic correspondence as a header, and for an individual seeking a job it should include your name, occupation, address, phone number and email. 

The main purpose of a header is to let a prospective employer know how to contact you if they want to. But it has an important secondary purpose — to give your letter some visual flair. 

You DON’T want to write the body of your letter in purple text, but you CAN include a light splash of color somewhere in your header. You can be a bit creative here in your use of typography, layout and white space, and it should make your letter look better overall.

Including your complete home address at the beginning of your cover letter is unnecessary and can potentially raise data protection concerns. It is advisable to share your address only when you have reached the job offer stage. Additionally, the inclusion of an inside address is outdated and takes up valuable space in your cover letter, making it less effective.

To get an idea of what good headers look like, take a spin through the free cover letter templates at resume.io. You can take these designs and make any of them your own.

Align document styles

Your resume and cover letter should be a matching set, designed to be paired, and that means you should use the same fonts, font sizes and formatting styles in both. 

The headers on both should be similar if not identical, making it obvious that they came from the same person at the same time. If you’re blowing the dust off a two-year-old resume and mailing it with a new cover letter that uses totally different fonts and styles, that’s not going to work well.

Goal of the cover letter header: Distinguish yourself from other job applicants by showing a visual flair and regard for detail and high quality.

Cover letter greeting / salutation

“Dear Mr. [X],” “Dear Ms. [Y],” or “Dear Dr. [Z]” are all appropriate ways to write the greeting of your cover letter, also known as a salutation. In a proper business letter, the greeting is generally followed by a colon rather than a comma.

The era of email has relaxed these rules somewhat, so that nowadays “Greetings” or even “Hello” are sometimes substituted for “Dear.” But it’s a bit risky to mess with success, and you want to avoid being too informal in a letter asking for a job.

If you happen to know the person you’re writing to, it may be perfectly acceptable to address that individual by first name. But bear in mind that hiring decisions are often made by multiple people, so think about this entire group in writing your letter.

You should always try to address your cover letter to a named individual, even if no name is specified in the job listing that got your attention. 

People like to read their own names, and it shows both attention to detail and respect if you’ve gone to the trouble of finding out who makes the hiring decisions at the company where you want to work. 

A reasonable amount of research through Google, social media or the employer’s website should give you some information (if you’re an introverted person - sometimes even a call to the company itself). However, it’s vitally important to stay within the boundaries of propriety and common sense. You never know what company policies are regarding privacy.

If in doubt - use more generic but equally friendly phrases like “Dear <Company Name> Hiring Team” or  “Dear <Company Name> Team”.

Goal of the cover letter greeting: Set a professional, but friendly, tone by making a direct personal connection with the employer, using the recipient’s name if possible.

Cover letter introduction

Your first paragraph should start the engine of your letter with a “Vroom!” Using provocative, lively language, you want to identify the job you’re seeking and suggest why you would be a great candidate to fill it. 

Pay close attention to your tone of voice, which should be energetic and confident, but never arrogant or too familiar. Use bold and informative statements about yourself and the reason you’re applying for this job.

Goal of the cover letter introduction: Pique the interest of hiring managers with a confident, energetic preview of your qualifications that motivates further reading.

Cover letter body

The central two or three paragraphs of your cover letter must make the case as to why you are an excellent candidate to fill this job. 

The body of your letter should emphasize your work experience, education, special skills and any other qualifications worth mentioning.  

In discussing your past experience, try to be as specific as possible, using facts and figures where appropriate. Don’t just say where you worked and when, but describe your primary achievements on the job. 

Try to include at least one short little story about some challenge you faced in a past job, what action you took and how you achieved a satisfactory resolution.

Also, if you’ve done your homework on the employer you’re targeting, it can be really helpful to discuss specific challenges that you know this employer faces, and to suggest how your contributions could help address these issues.

Aim of the cover letter body: Highlight your most relevant achievements in relatable terms that translate to potential benefits for this employer.

Cover letter conclusion and call to action

Close on a positive, enthusiastic note that contains some kind of “call to action.” Declare that you would be delighted to come in for an interview, or perhaps even ask if you could call within the next couple of weeks to follow up. 

Plant the thought in your correspondent’s head that s/he should take some action as a result of your letter and not just lay it aside. Let that person know that you are not just randomly sending out resumes, but that you’re really interested in this job in particular and you’re confident you would be an excellent candidate.

Goal of the cover letter conclusion: End on a positive, self-assured note with a call to action that ideally results in an interview.

Cover letter sign-off

Finish with “Sincerely,” “All my best,” or a similar phrase, insert a space below that, and type your name. If you like, you can insert a digital signature here, though in electronic correspondence this is not considered necessary.

The best start to a great cover letter is a professionally designed template where all the formatting is done for you. Review sample cover letter templates in four style categories: simple , modern , professional and creative . Choose the one you like best, and fill in your own information using our cover letter builder tool.

You’ll be building on a foundation of success with a format that’s been proven to work by actual recruiters!

Writing psychology: how to write a persuasive cover letter

A cover letter is formal business correspondence, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be personal. Always remember that you’re writing to a real person, and your letter should sound like it was written by a real person too — not a robot. 

Your letter is a personal appeal in which you’re asking another human being for a job. So you want to try to get inside that person’s head a bit.

If you were on the receiving end of this letter, would you want to meet the person who wrote it? Would you want to work with that person for years to come?

Are there any turnoffs in your letter? Does it ever cross a line from confident competence into arrogance? Does it ever sound like you feel entitled to this job?

It’s crucial to find the right tone of voice, taking into account your position relative to that of the person to whom you’re writing. 

You also want to look at the kind of language used by the firm you’re targeting on its website and elsewhere. Whether it’s highly formal or disarmingly casual, the tone the employer uses in its communications with the public should serve as a guide to the kind of tone you should use in your letter.

You need to make sure that you’ve mentioned all of your most impressive accomplishments, and left out anything that isn’t a great selling point. You can only say so much in a one-page letter, and you need to make every word count.

Mistakes to avoid in writing a cover letter

Here are some of the common errors to avoid in writing a cover letter:

• Typos, misspellings and other English mistakes: You cannot afford to make any mistakes. Nobody wants to hire a secretary who can’t write a one-page letter without typos, misspellings, bad grammar or punctuation mistakes.
• One size fits all: Every cover letter should be unique and targeted to a specific employer. You can’t just send the same letter to 50 prospective employers and expect all of them to take you seriously.
• Clichés, HR-speak and fluff: Are you a “team-oriented” “self-starter” who “thinks outside the box”? Well, then 1985 just called, and it wants its clichés back. Lazy, hackneyed phrases borrowed from elsewhere will demonstrate that you lack originality and are just recycling a bunch of “fluff” — fancy language that doesn’t mean anything.
• Structural and formatting errors: If you’ve ignored the basic components of what a cover letter should contain and how it should be formatted, how are you going to convince anyone that you’d be a good secretary?

Key takeaways for a secretary cover letter

• Secretary jobs are expected to decline by 7% in the next decade, at least in the United States, so to stay ahead of the pack in a competitive field, you need a superior cover letter and resume.
• Sending a cover letter is not only a common courtesy when seeking a job, but it’s a demonstration of your ability to do the job well.
• A cover letter that looks terrible because it ignores basic formatting standards could be an instant disqualifier — before the hiring manager reads the first word.
• Put yourself in the shoes of the person you’re writing to, and write a letter that would make that person want to hire you.
• Avoid common mistakes in writing and formatting —in fact, avoid any mistake whatsoever.

Free professionally designed templates

Resume Templates

Resume samples

Create and edit your resume online

Generate compelling resumes with our AI resume builder and secure employment quickly.

Write a cover letter

Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter Samples

Create and edit your cover letter

Use our user-friendly tool to create the perfect cover letter.

Featured articles

• How to Write a Motivation Letter With Examples
• How to Write a Resume in 2024 That Gets Results
• Teamwork Skills on Your Resume: List and Examples
• What Are the Best Colors for Your Resume?

Latests articles

• How To Add a Promotion on LinkedIn: Steps and Example
• The Highest Paying Blue-Collar Jobs Offer Stability, While Nearly 300,000 Layoffs Are Blamed on AI
• How To Prepare Your Resume for a Promotion in 2024
• The Essential Guide To Giving Two Weeks’ Notice in 2024

Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

Secretary Cover Letter Example

Create a Secretary cover letter that stands out and gets you hired faster with the help of ResumeCoach. Take advantage of our expert example cover letter, tips and guidance, and document designer tools to get the best results when you apply for your next job.

Secretary Example Cover Letter

Crafting a compelling Secretary cover letter can be a make or break component of your job application process.

The role of a secretary requires meticulous attention to detail, superior organizational abilities, and exemplary interpersonal skills. Your cover letter needs to reflect these qualities and provide a  glimpse into your potential  as an efficient and reliable asset to the prospective organization.

In this article, we’ll dive into some  less-known ingredients  that can make your secretary cover letter a success:

• Top 3 skills you should absolutely mention in your secretary cover letter
• 20 secretarial power words recruiters cannot resist
• 1 proven strategy to land your secretarial dream job if you have no experience

Get started by taking a look at the secretary cover letter example below.

[ Hiring Manager’s name ]

[Company name]

[Company address]

Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],

I am excited to apply for the Secretary position at [Company]. With over 6 years of experience in the field and comprehensive knowledge of office management software, I believe I am an ideal candidate for this role.

In my current position at [Current Company], I have consistently demonstrated my exceptional organizational skills by successfully coordinating more than 50 offsite meetings, handling all travel arrangements, and drafting various formal emails, letters, and communications on behalf of the company. Through these responsibilities, I have honed my attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.

Moreover, I have proactively enhanced company filing procedures to streamline recordkeeping. By implementing improved systems, I was able to reduce document retrieval time by 12%, resulting in increased productivity and smoother workflow.

To provide a comprehensive overview of my qualifications and achievements, I have enclosed my resume for your review. It further emphasizes my career history and accomplishments in detail.

I am greatly interested in discussing how my skills and experience align with the Secretary position at [Company]. I am available for an in-person meeting at your convenience to address any questions you may have.

You may reach me anytime via my personal phone number, [Phone Number], or by email at [Email Address]. I eagerly look forward to the opportunity to further discuss how my abilities can contribute to the success of [Company].

Thank you for considering my application. I anticipate hearing from you soon.

[Your Name]

[Address] [Phone number] [Email address]

Use our  cover letter creation tool  to write your secretary cover letter. Full of expert on-the-go tips, you’ll be done in just a few minutes.

Top 3 Skills Recruiters Look For in Secretaries

When recruiters look for secretaries, they look for those who possess the skills that will help them be successful in their role.

While knowing that abilities like efficient communication, time management, or software proficiency will enhance your cover letter, we have also included a breakdown of the ideal tasks to showcase them.

This way, you’ll be able to  provide details about how you’ve gained these   skills . Don’t forget that you’re telling a story through your application. The more detail, the more interesting it will be for hiring managers.

Here they are:

Skill 1: Efficient Communication and Interpersonal Skills

As a secretary, having excellent communication and interpersonal skills is vital. You will be the face and voice of the company.

This ability allows you to establish a  good relationship with clients, co-workers, and upper management . Efficient communication and interpersonal skills show you can:

• Greet guests in a polite and friendly manner
• Listen actively to clients and co-workers
• Write and speak professionally
• Handle conflict and complaints
• Assist managers and co-workers when needed
• Build trust and rapport between employees and clients

“My ability to multitask effectively and problem-solve on the fly proved invaluable, particularly in situations that required the juggling of multiple conflicting priorities. I maintained meticulous records and consistently updated our internal databases and files, ensuring easy access to vital information at all times.”

Skill 2: Organizational and Time Management Skills

Recruiters also prioritize the proficiency of secretaries in office software. Such proficiency significantly impacts the  efficiency of the workplace , which is why familiarity with these applications can strongly influence the selection process.

Proficiency in office software applications also allows for:

• Quick document processing and updates (Microsoft Word, Google Docs)
• Keeping databases up-to-date (Microsoft Access, MySQL, Salesforce)
• Staying on top of emails and software systems (Microsoft Outlook, Gmail)
• Efficient task completion (Trello, Asana, Microsoft Teams)
• Maintaining a professional online presence (Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram)

“In my previous role, I effectively used Asana for task management and project tracking, ensuring the team’s deadlines were consistently met. Furthermore, I was responsible for managing office equipment and scheduling regular maintenance, preventing potential disruptions. My proactive approach extended beyond these tasks, impacting overall project management duties and leading to a well-organized and highly efficient work environment.”

20 Power Words to Boost Your Secretary Cover Letter

When crafting your resume as a secretary, it’s important to  choose impactful language  that highlights your skills and accomplishments.

Power words are action verbs that make your cover letter more  dynamic and engaging . They help recruiters envision your contributions and capabilities.

Here is a list specifically tailored to secretaries:

• Coordinated
• Streamlined
• Prioritized

Example: “I meticulously organized and maintained complex calendars for multiple executives, ensuring seamless scheduling and timely coordination of meetings.”

• Facilitated
• Corresponded
• Implemented

Example: “I successfully implemented a new digital filing system that enhanced document retrieval efficiency and reduced paper waste.”

• Communicated
• Collaborated

Example: “I executed various administrative tasks with precision, including preparing official correspondence, managing office supplies, and coordinating travel arrangements.”

Using these  power words  strategically throughout your cover letter will give it a boost of energy and make it stand out to recruiters. Remember to  pair them with specific examples  of how you applied these skills to achieve positive results.

Also, tailor your language and examples to your specific experiences and achievements as a secretary. This will make your resume more compelling and help you present yourself as a confident and capable candidate.

Check our  cover letter guide . There you’ll find  detailed advice on the essential elements  of a winning cover letter, such as how to effectively detail your experience.

1 Proven Strategy to Land Your Secretarial Dream Job if You Have No Experience

As a job seeker with no experience, writing a cover letter for a secretary position can feel challenging. It’s important to convey enthusiasm, but saying things like “I am motivated” or “I’ve wanted to be a secretary since I can remember” won’t get you the job.

However, there is one thing you can do to show your motivation to recruiters –  join a professional association  and point it out in your cover letter.

Professional associations can boost a secretary’s profile in the application process. They not only represent a  commitment to the field  but also offer networking opportunities, professional development resources, and industry updates.

Membership in one of these associations can significantly enhance your  credibility  as a secretary and demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and excellence in your field.

Here are three prominent associations you could join:

• International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP)
• American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP)
• National Association of Legal Secretaries (NALS)

Take a look at the example in the following section to see how you can include your association membership in your cover letter.

Secretary Cover Letter With No Experience

While the  employment for secretaries is expected to decrease  during the next few years, it’s still a popular career choice for many.

If you’re a career newbie and are asking yourself “how do I write an application letter for a secretary position?”, review the cover letter sample below for further reference:

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Secretary position at [Company’s Name] as advertised. Although I do not have formal work experience, I believe my education, volunteer work, and my active membership with the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) have equipped me with a unique set of skills that are valuable for this role.

During my time at [Your College/University Name], I was often praised for my strong organizational skills and attention to detail. I utilized my knowledge of office software to streamline the management of academic projects and volunteered to assist in the organization of numerous school events. Through this, I developed proficiency in task prioritization, time management, and multitasking, skills that are crucial for the efficient functioning of an office environment.

As an active member of the IAAP, I’ve had the opportunity to enhance my communication and interpersonal skills through their various networking events. This exposure has enabled me to establish and maintain professional relationships effectively, a skill I believe is crucial for the role of a Secretary. Moreover, their certification programs and continuous professional development resources have allowed me to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices, further preparing me to thrive in an administrative role.

I am eager to bring my strong work ethic, dedication, and willingness to learn to your team at [Company’s Name]. I am confident that my skills would make me a valuable addition to your company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how I can contribute to the efficiency of your administrative operations.

Recap: How to Write a Secretary Cover Letter That Gets You the Job

Writing a cover letter for a secretarial position is easy, if you know what recruiters are looking for.

Let’s review the main points presented in this article:

• Top skills for secretaries : Communication, interpersonal skills, organization, time management, and office software applications. Provide specific examples of how you used them and consider taking a course if you’re missing any.
• Power words : Use power words to describe your experience in your cover letter. Your arguments will gain effectiveness through them.
• Professional associations : Specially advantageous for those with little or no experience, mentioning membership to an association shows commitment and passion for the secretarial world. Recruiters will be impressed.

By applying these tools and advice, you’ll effectively feature your unique set of skills and experience, demonstrating your ability to succeed in the position.

Trouble getting your Cover Letter started?

Beat the blank page with expert help.

• Career Blog

Secretary Cover Letter: 5 Examples & Writing Tips

Your cover letter is your opportunity to showcase your skills and qualifications to potential employers and convince them why you are the best fit for the role.

In this article, we will provide you with five examples and writing tips for creating an effective Secretary Cover Letter. We will cover the key elements that should be included in your cover letter, such as your relevant experience, education, and skills, and how to tailor your language to the specific requirements of the job.

We will also discuss the importance of using proper formatting and structure in your cover letter, and how to make it visually appealing and professional. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how to create a compelling Secretary Cover Letter that will grab the attention of potential employers and increase your chances of landing an interview.

So, whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for a new challenge or a recent graduate seeking your first job, our tips and examples will help you create a strong and effective cover letter that will set you apart from the competition.

One of the most important aspects of writing a cover letter is conducting research on the company and position you’re applying for. This will help you understand the company’s culture, values, and goals, which can greatly benefit your application.

How to research the company and position you’re applying for

• Look up the company’s website and social media pages. Take note of their mission statement, products or services, and recent news or events.
• Read the job posting carefully and highlight the required skills and qualifications. Look for any keywords or phrases that are repeatedly mentioned, as they may indicate the most important aspects of the job.
• Reach out to current or former employees of the company to gain insider knowledge. LinkedIn is a great resource for this, as you can connect with professionals who have worked for the company before.

By conducting thorough research, you can tailor your cover letter to the specific needs and values of the company, demonstrating that you are a good fit for the position.

Tips for tailoring your cover letter to specific job requirements

• Use the job posting as a guide for the content of your cover letter. Address the most important qualifications listed and explain how your skills, experience and achievements can contribute to the company’s success.
• Highlight any relevant accomplishments, awards, or certifications you have received that are applicable to the position. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to show your impact.
• Use professional language and tone, and make sure your cover letter is free of grammatical errors and typos. Show your attention to detail and professionalism.

By demonstrating your knowledge of the company and your ability to meet the specific requirements of the job, you can increase your chances of securing an interview and ultimately landing the job.

When it comes to writing a secretary cover letter, proper formatting is essential to create a good impression on the hiring manager. The following are some tips on how to format your secretary cover letter effectively:

1. Choose the Right Font and Font Size

Select a font that is easy to read, such as Times New Roman or Arial. Use a standard size like 10 or 12. Avoid using decorative or fancy fonts as they might appear unprofessional.

2. Use a Professional-Looking Layout

A well-organized and clean layout can make your cover letter look professional. Use clear margins and avoid using too many bold or underlined words.

3. Address the Hiring Manager Appropriately

Begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager by name instead of using ‘To Whom It May Concern.’ This shows your attention to detail and research skills.

4. Divide Your Letter into Sections

Divide your cover letter into different sections such as introduction, body, and conclusion. This helps to keep your ideas organized and helps the hiring manager quickly scan the letter.

5. Use Bullet Points

Use bullet points or numbered lists to highlight your skills, achievements, and other key points. This makes your cover letter more readable and easy to follow.

Example 1: Entry-Level Secretary Cover Letter

In this section, we will be discussing a successful entry-level secretary cover letter and providing tips for crafting a cover letter tailored to the specific job at hand.

Breakdown and Analysis

A successful entry-level secretary cover letter should be concise, well-written, and tailored to the job requirements. Let’s break down some key components of a successful cover letter:

Introduction: Begin your cover letter by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the position. Mention where you found the job posting and briefly summarize why you are a good fit for the job.

Skills and Qualifications: In the next section, highlight your relevant skills and qualifications that make you a good candidate for the position. This may include your education, previous work experience, and any relevant certifications or training.

Company Knowledge: Show that you have done your research on the company by mentioning something specific about the organization and why it appeals to you.

Closing: End your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering your application and expressing your excitement for the opportunity to interview in person.

Tips for Crafting a Tailored Cover Letter

Crafting a cover letter that is tailored to the job at hand is essential to standing out in a competitive job market. Here are some tips for crafting a successful entry-level secretary cover letter:

Research the company: Before you begin writing, research the company to learn more about their mission, values, and culture. This will help you tailor your cover letter to their specific needs.

Focus on your skills and qualifications: Highlight your most relevant skills and qualifications that match the job posting. This will show the employer that you are a qualified candidate for the position.

Use industry-relevant language: Use industry-specific language to demonstrate your knowledge and experience within the field. This will show the employer that you are familiar with the job requirements and can communicate effectively.

Follow the job posting instructions: Be sure to follow any specific instructions outlined in the job posting, such as submitting a cover letter in a certain format or addressing the letter to a specific person.

Crafting a tailored entry-level secretary cover letter requires research, focus, and attention to detail. Follow these tips and guidelines to increase your chances of securing an interview for your dream job.

Example 2: Experienced Secretary Cover Letter

In this section, we will break down and analyze a successful experienced secretary cover letter.

The experienced secretary cover letter presents a strong and confident tone right from the opening paragraph. The applicant introduces themselves with a brief summary of their experience and expertise, highlighting how they can add value to the job position.

Throughout the cover letter, the applicant effectively communicates both hard and soft skills. They reference their proficiency in software applications while also discussing their ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality. Additionally, they provide examples of relevant experience, demonstrating their skills in problem-solving and effective communication.

The experienced secretary cover letter also includes a strong closing paragraph, in which the applicant expresses their excitement for the opportunity to interview and learn more about the company and position.

The successful experienced secretary cover letter showcases the applicant’s qualifications while also demonstrating their personality and passion for the job position.

Tips for Crafting an Experienced Secretary Cover Letter

Crafting an effective experienced secretary cover letter requires attention to detail and a tailored approach. Here are some tips for achieving success:

Start Strong: Make sure to begin your cover letter with a strong opening sentence or paragraph that immediately grabs the attention of the reader.

Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on providing specific examples of relevant experience and how it has prepared you for the job position.

Communicate Hard and Soft Skills: Discuss both hard and soft skills that are important for the job position. Include examples of how you have utilized these skills in prior experience.

Tailor to the Company: Research the company and identify key values or characteristics that align with your own. Mention these in your cover letter to demonstrate your alignment with the company culture.

End with a Strong Closing: Like the experienced secretary cover letter example, end with a strong closing paragraph expressing your enthusiasm for the position and interest in learning more.

By following these tips, you can craft an effective experienced secretary cover letter that highlights your qualifications and personality while also showing that you are tailored to the company and position.

Example 3: Legal Secretary Cover Letter

In this section, we’ll break down a successful legal secretary cover letter and provide tips for crafting one tailored to the job at hand.

Salutation and Introduction

The letter begins with a professional salutation that addresses the hiring manager by name. This shows that the candidate has done their research and is genuinely interested in the position.

The introduction paragraph includes a brief overview of the candidate’s experience and how it relates to the position.

Professional Experience

The candidate uses bullet points to highlight specific experience and accomplishments in previous legal secretary roles. These bullet points are relevant to the position and demonstrate the candidate’s skills and abilities.

Education and Skills

The candidate briefly mentions their education and relevant skills in the legal field. This information reinforces their qualifications for the position.

Closing and Call to Action

The letter concludes with a call to action and a strong closing statement expressing enthusiasm for the position and the opportunity to discuss their qualifications further.

Tips for Crafting a Legal Secretary Cover Letter

• Address the hiring manager by name in the salutation.
• Highlight relevant experience and accomplishments using bullet points.
• Mention relevant education and skills.
• Use a strong closing statement expressing enthusiasm for the position.
• Tailor the content of the letter to the job at hand.

By following these tips, you can craft a legal secretary cover letter that showcases your experience and qualifications and emphasizes your fit for the position.

Example 4: Administrative Secretary Cover Letter

As an administrative secretary, your cover letter is your chance to make a great first impression on potential employers. In this section, we’ll break down and analyze a successful administrative secretary cover letter, as well as provide tips for crafting your own tailored to the job at hand.

Let’s take a closer look at the key components of a successful administrative secretary cover letter:

1. Introduction

The introduction of an administrative secretary cover letter should be concise and engaging. Use this section to introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. Mention how you learned about the opening and briefly explain why you are drawn to the opportunity.

2. Skills and Experience

In the body of your cover letter, highlight your relevant skills and experience. Make sure to use specific examples to demonstrate your proficiency in areas such as scheduling, record keeping, and communication.

3. Value Proposition

As an administrative secretary, you are a vital part of any organization. Use this section of your cover letter to explain why you would be an asset to the company. Emphasize how your skills and experience align with the needs of the position and how you can contribute to the team.

4. Call to Action

Finally, make sure to include a call to action in your administrative secretary cover letter. Let the employer know how to contact you and express your enthusiasm about the opportunity to interview for the position.

Tips for Crafting a Tailored Administrative Secretary Cover Letter

Research the company: Before you start writing your cover letter, do some research on the company you’re applying to. This will help you understand their values and company culture, which can be reflected in your cover letter.

Customize your language: Use language that is tailored to the specific job description. This will show the employer that you’ve done your homework and are interested in the position.

Use bullet points: When highlighting your skills and experience, use bullet points to make it easy for the employer to scan your cover letter.

Address the hiring manager by name: Whenever possible, address the hiring manager by name in your cover letter. This adds a personal touch and shows that you’ve taken the time to research the company.

Use keywords: Use keywords from the job description to show that you are a good fit for the position. This can also help your cover letter get past any automated screening tools.

Crafting an effective administrative secretary cover letter takes time and effort, but it’s worth it if you want to stand out from the crowd. By following these tips, you can create a custom cover letter that highlights your skills and experience and grabs the attention of potential employers.

Example 5: Virtual Secretary Cover Letter

If you’re applying for a virtual secretary position, a well-written cover letter can help set you apart from other candidates. Here’s a breakdown of what makes a successful virtual secretary cover letter:

Breakdown and Analysis of a Successful Virtual Secretary Cover Letter

Introduction:  Start with a strong opening sentence that highlights your qualifications and interest in the position. For example: “As a highly organized and detail-oriented individual with experience in virtual administrative support, I am excited to apply for the virtual secretary role at XYZ Corporation.”

Body Paragraph #1:  Briefly introduce your most relevant qualifications and experience as they relate to the job description. Provide specific examples of your skills and how they can benefit the company.

Body Paragraph #2:  Discuss your understanding of the company’s mission and values, and how you can align with them. Mention any relevant industry knowledge or experience, and highlight why you’re the best fit for the position.

Closing Paragraph:  Express your enthusiasm for the position, and provide your contact information. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your interest in future communication.

Tips for Crafting a Virtual Secretary Cover Letter Tailored to the Job at Hand

Research the company: Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission, values, and culture. Incorporate this knowledge into your cover letter to show how you can contribute to their success.

Highlight relevant experience: Focus on relevant experience that highlights your organizational and administrative skills. If you’ve worked in a virtual capacity before, emphasize your ability to effectively manage multiple tasks and deadlines remotely.

Customize your approach: Tailor your cover letter to the specific requirements listed in the job description. Use keywords and phrases throughout your letter that align with the job requirements and make it clear that you’re the perfect fit for the position.

Showcase your communication skills: As a virtual secretary, effective communication and collaboration are crucial skills. Use your cover letter to demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly and professionally in a remote work environment.

By following these tips and incorporating the above breakdown and analysis, you can create a strong virtual secretary cover letter that captures the attention of potential employers and highlights your qualifications for the role.

Key Writing Tips for Secretary Cover Letters

When writing a cover letter as a secretary, there are several common mistakes that you should avoid. Firstly, ensure that you address the specific job requirements in the job posting. Many job seekers make the mistake of sending a generic cover letter that fails to highlight their relevant skills and experience. A customized cover letter shows that you have taken the time to research and understand the company’s needs.

Secondly, avoid using jargon or overly complicated language. Keep your writing clear, concise, and easy to understand. Remember, the purpose of your cover letter is to showcase your communication skills and demonstrate that you can effectively communicate in a professional context.

Thirdly, don’t make the mistake of simply repeating your resume in your cover letter. Instead, use your cover letter to provide insight into your personality, interests, and motivation for applying to the job. You can also highlight any achievements or accomplishments that are not already mentioned in your resume.

To make your secretary cover letter stand out from the competition, follow these tips:

1. Start with a strong opening

Your opening sentence should immediately grab the reader’s attention and make them want to read more. Consider starting with a personal anecdote, a relevant statistic, or a compelling question.

2. Highlight your unique selling points

What sets you apart from other candidates? This could be your experience in a particular industry, a specific skillset, or a unique perspective that you bring to the role. Make sure to highlight these unique selling points in your cover letter.

3. Show your enthusiasm for the role

Employers want to know that you are genuinely interested in the position and are not simply applying out of desperation. Use your cover letter to demonstrate your passion for the role and your excitement about the opportunity.

4. Keep it concise

Your cover letter should be no more than one page long. Be sure to include all of the necessary information, while keeping your writing clear and concise.

5. Tailor your language to the company culture

Research the company culture and use language that reflects this in your cover letter. If the company has a fun, energetic culture, for example, consider using some light-hearted language that showcases your personality.

By following these writing tips, you can create a compelling secretary cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition and secure your dream job.

Related Articles

• Warehouse Material Handler Resume Writing Guide for 2023
• Coordinator Resume: The 2023 Guide with Examples
• Estate Manager: Job Description, Salary, and Skills for 2023
• Learning and Development Specialist Resume: Best Examples
• Job Description: Describing Your Current Duties [Examples]

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

You are viewing:

Archived Content

Information released online from January 20, 2009 to January 20, 2017. Note: Content in this archive site is not updated , and links may not function. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views contained therein.

Go to the current State.gov website for up-to-date information.

U.s. department of state, diplomacy in action.

• Under Secretary for Management
• Foreign Service Institute
• Transition Center
• Career Transition Center (CTC)
• General Job Search Guidance
• Job Search Websites by Job Field and Related Resources

Cover Letters

College Grad.com - www.collegegrad.com/coverletters

Job Smart - http://jobstar.org/tools/resume/cletters.php

Positively Minnesota - www.positivelyminnesota.com

Monster.com Cover Letter Tips - http://career-advice.monster.com/resumes-cover-letters/cover-letter-tips/jobs.aspx

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute - Writing Center - www.wecc.rpi.edu/cover_letter.html

The Riley Guide - www.rileyguide.com/cover.html

"How to Write a Cover Letter" Howcast.com- http://www.howcast.com/videos/2505-How-To-Write-a-Cover-Letter

Brian Krueger of CollegeGrad.com has a number of excellent 1 minute videos on cover letters on his Youtube.com channel page: http://www.youtube.com/user/BrianKrueger#g/u (if you scroll to the bottom left of the videos field there is an option to Load More)

Career Change Sample Cover Letter Monster.com - http://career-advice.monster.com/resumes-cover-letters/cover-letter-samples/career-changecover- letter-sample/article.aspx

Isaacs, Kim "Career Change Cover Letters" Resume power.com - www.resumepower.com/career-change-cover-letter.html

Rossheim, John "Cover Letters Build the Case for Workers Over 50" Special Report , Monster.com Careers at 50+ http://career-advice.monster.com/resumes-cover-letters/cover-letter-tips/cover-letters-for-50- plus-workers/article.aspx

How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter eHow.com - http://www.ehow.com/how_4730229_write-career-change-cover-letter.html

Enelow, Wendy S. Cover Letter Magic, 4th Ed: Trade Secrets of Professional Resume Writers Jist Works, 2010

Farr, Michael & Kursmark, Louise 15-Minute Cover Letter: Write an Effective Cover Letter Right Now Jist Works, March 2009

Kursmark, Louise and Enelow, Wendy Cover Letter Magic: Trade Secrets of Professional Resume Writers Jist Works, 4 th edition, 2010

Morris, R. Scott Polished: Adding Shine to Your Resume, Cover Letter, and Interview Skills Morris Consulting LLC, 2010

Walsh, Richard The Only Resume and Cover Letter Book You'll Ever Need: 600 Resumes for All Industries 600 Cover Letters for Every Situation 150 Positions from Entry Level to CEO Adams Media, 2008

Yate, Martin Knock 'em Dead Cover Letters: Great letter techniques and samples for every step of your job search (Cover Letters That Knock 'em Dead) Adams Media, 2010

FSI Stephen Low Library Holdings

Enelow, Wendy S. Cover letter magic: trade secrets of professional resume writers Jist Works, 2004 CTC HF5383 .E4787 2004

The above links are for informational purposes only and in no way constitute an endorsement, expressed or implied, by the Department of State. Links to websites outside the U.S. federal government or the use of trade, firm, or corporation names are for the convenience of the user and do not constitute an official endorsement or approval of any private sector website, product, service, or privacy policy.

You are entering the 2009-2017 Archive for the U.S. Department of State.

If you are looking for current information, visit www.state.gov ..

The People's Law Library

• Other Legal Issues

Maryland Apostille and Full Legalization Process: Authenticating Maryland Documents for use Across National Borders

Topics on this page:, document authentication, general information on legalization.

• Private Documents
• State and County Documents
• Federal Documents

Maryland Apostille and Full Legalization Processes

Requirements, costs, and addresses, model apostille, additional resources.

Foreign countries may require documents to be authenticated in order to be accepted in the foreign jurisdiction. Authenticating a document verifies the document’s source so foreign countries can be sure the document is not fake. The traditional method for authenticating documents to be used overseas is called legalization.

Learn more about the Hague Conference on International Private Law .

This article discusses the apostille procedure and the full legalization procedure for documents issued in Maryland. Each state determines their own apostille and legalization procedures, and you should check with the appropriate authorities in that state. A roster of Secretaries of State and links to each state’s Secretary of State website can be found on the National Association of Secretaries of State website .

A legalization is made up of a chain of official authentications of the document and can be slow and costly.  Because of this, numerous countries agreed to simplify the process, which created the 1961 Hague Convention abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents. The convention reduces the process to a single authentication: an authentication certificate (an apostille) issued by an authority designated by the country where the document was issued.

Determine if You Need an Apostille or Full Legalization

Do you need documents legalized.

The most typical circumstances for seeking an apostille or a full legalization include:

• Studying, teaching or working abroad;
• Dual citizenship procedures;
• Marriages in another country; and
• Foreign burial of the deceased. 

However, some countries may not require certain documents to be legalized.  If you are unsure, you should check with the intended recipient of your document on their legalization requirements.

What country do you plan to use the documents in?

If you do need documents legalized, whether you need a full legalization or an apostille depends on which country issued the document and which country you want to use the document in. Apostilles can only be issued for documents that (a) were issued in a country that signed the Hague Convention and (b) are to be used in a different country which also signed the convention.

You can check Hague Conference website  to determine if the country you will use the document in accepts apostilles.

Countries that are not signatories to the Hague Convention may require the full legalization.  

What type of document are you getting legalized?

There are three primary types of documents that require authentications: private documents (individual or corporate); state/county-issued documents ; and federally-issued documents .

Learn more about authentication requirements on the US State Department website .

The type of document determines which authority is designated to authenticate or apostille the document.

Private Documents:

Private documents can be personal (example: Power of Attorney) or corporate (example: Articles of Incorporation) and may be issued an authentication or apostille by a designated authority, general the state Secretary of State’s office.

Examples of commonly authenticated private documents include:

• Affidavits 
• Agreements 
• Articles of Incorporation 
• Bylaws 
• Commercial Invoices 
• Copy of a U.S. Passport (identification page only) 
• Deeds of Assignment
• Diplomas 
• Home Study 
• Income Verification 
• Powers-of-Attorney 
• Single Status 
• Transcripts 
• Other business documents

State/County-Issued Documents:

State/county-issued documents may be issued an authentication or apostille by a designated authority, generally the state Secretary of State’s office.

Examples of commonly apostilled and authenticated state/county-issued documents include:

• Birth Certificates 
• Death Certificates
• Divorce Decrees 
• Marriage Certificates
• Probate Wills 
• Judgments in state court cases

Learn more on the Hague Conference website .

Federally-Issued Documents:

Federally-issued documents are documents signed by:

• American Consular Officer
• Foreign Consul Diplomatic Official registered with the State Department Office of Protocol
• Judge Advocate
• Military Notary
• U.S. Federal Officer

Determine what particular apostille or authentication process you must follow.

If a private or state/county-issued document, determine which state and department the document was issued in, as applicable . This article will discuss Maryland’s apostille and full legalization processes. Please note that as each state determines their own apostille and legalization procedures, you should check with the appropriate authorities in that state. Most state’s Secretary of State websites list their state-specific requirements for an apostille. 

If a federally-issued document, determine which federal department issued the document. There is one standard way to authenticate or apostille federally-issued documents. See the People's Law Library article on authenticating federal documents .

For Private Documents originating in Maryland:

• The document must be notarized by a Maryland notary.
• Example: If a Baltimore City notary notarizes the document, the document must then be sent to the Baltimore City Circuit Court house for authentication because that is where the notary was commissioned. 
• Note: If the document was certified by a Circuit Court clerk other than the current clerk of the Circuit Court, call the Office of the Secretary of State at 410-974-5521 to confirm that the document can be apostilled.
• The document then must be mailed or personally delivered to the Office of the Secretary of State in Annapolis for an apostille or authentication.
• If the document requires an apostille, this is the last step. For private documents, the Secretary of State issues an apostille and the document is now ready to be used in foreign jurisdictions. 
• For a full legalization, the document then must be mailed or personally delivered to the U.S. Department of State Authentications office in Washington, D.C. for an authentication. 
• The document then must be mailed or personally delivered to the foreign country’s consulate office for the final authentication. Costs, requirements and addresses vary depending on the consulate.

Learn more at the Maryland Secretary of State's website  and the  Hague Conference website .

For Maryland State/County-Issued Documents:

• Obtain a certified original document or a certified copy from the issuing state or county department. To be certified, the document must have the seal and authorized signature of the issuing department. 
• If the document requires an apostille, this is the last step. For state-/county-issued documents, the Secretary of State issues an apostille and the document is now ready to be used in foreign jurisdictions.
• For a full legalization, the document then must be mailed or personally delivered to the U.S. Department of State Authentications office in Washington, D.C. for an authentication.

The Maryland Secretary of State can be reached at:

16 Francis Street Wineland Building, 1st Fl. Annapolis, MD 21401

Telephone : 410-974-5521

Hours : Monday through Friday, 9 am – 1:00 pm

Note : Walk-ins are accepted, but there is a ​limit of 15 documents per day.​

An authentication of a document is $5 (whether for an apostille or a full legalization). The fee must be paid by U.S. check or U.S. money order, made out to “Secretary of State.” If you are appearing in person with the documents you can also pay by credit or debit card.

If the certification is completed by mail, you must include the following:

• The check may be a personal check, a cashier’s check, or a business check, made out to the “Secretary of State.” 
• If you are overseas and require a Maryland apostille, it may be helpful to obtain a cashier’s check in U.S. currency at your nearest foreign bank.
• The Office of Secretary of State has provided a  sample cover letter  to use
• Fed Ex, UPS, and Certified Mail are all accepted methods for sending and returning documents.

If the certification is completed in person, any form of payment is accepted: personal, cashier’s or business check, money order, cash, and credit cards with a minimum charge of $10.00. Certifications are typically completed while you wait.

The apostille Convention has issued a Model apostille Certificate , but not all apostilles look exactly like the Model Certificate.

An apostille can be placed on the document itself or on a separate page. The separate page is called an allonge. Apostilles may be affixed with adhesives, rubber stamps, and seals.

• The apostille Section of  the Hague Convention website  lists Competent Authorities and costs (if known) for any country that is party to the Convention; the website also provides a host of additional useful resources related to apostilles.
• Adams, James W. The Apostille in the 21 st  Century: International Document Certification and Verification. 34 Houston Journal of International Law. 519 (2012).
• Apostille Prescribed by the Hague Convention. 6C Nichols Cyclopedia of Legal Forms §139:13.

Is this legal advice?

This site offers legal information, not legal advice.  We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information and to clearly explain your options.  However we do not provide legal advice - the application of the law to your individual circumstances. For legal advice, you should consult an attorney.  The Maryland Thurgood Marshall State Law Library, a court-related agency of the Maryland Judiciary, sponsors this site.  In the absence of file-specific attribution or copyright, the Maryland Thurgood Marshall State Law Library may hold the copyright to parts of this website. You are free to copy the information for your own use or for other non-commercial purposes with the following language “Source: Maryland's People’s Law Library – www.peoples-law.org . © Maryland Thurgood Marshall State Law Library, 2024.”

Politics latest: Fears of 'all-out war' as foreign secretary heads to Israel for talks

David Lammy is heading to Israel for talks with senior ministers as the foreign secretary looks to help prevent "an all-out war" in the Middle East. Meanwhile, the Tories take credit for positive economic news - but A-level results day brings universities' financial strife to the fore.

Thursday 15 August 2024 22:35, UK

• Foreign secretary heading to Israel amid fears of 'all-out war'
• Chancellor 'fuming' at positive economic data, claim Tories
• Analysis: A good week the government can't take credit for
• Ukraine allowed to use British weapons in Russia | Follow war live
• Universities told they must 'manage budgets' | Results day catch-up
• Listen: Can universities make their sums work?
• Analysis: Politics at heart of fundamental threat facing universities

Things you might have missed

• Listen: How well did PM handle riots? | What's next for economy?
• Analysis: As support plummets, can Farage have his cake and eat it?
• Explained: Why it's so quiet in UK politics | What does 'two-tier policing' mean - and does it exist? | Robert Jenrick and the Allahu Akbar row

With those details in our previous post of David Lammy's imminent Middle East visit, notably to Israel, we're bringing the Politics Hub to a close for the time being.

Be sure to scroll back through the Hub to catch up on what was a busy day both domestically and internationally for British ministers.

We had a significant update on how the economy's doing, A-level results day was somewhat marred by fears about the future of our universities, confirmation reached us of Ukraine using British tanks in Russia, and we had that news of the foreign secretary heading to Israel.

Thanks for joining us - and we'll see you next time.

More details of the foreign secretary's trip to Israel have been released.

The Foreign Office has announced David Lammy will be heading to the Middle East with his French counterpart Stephane Sejourne in what is the first joint UK-France visit in more than a decade.

They will meet Israeli foreign minister Israel Katz and strategic affairs minister Ron Dermer, though there is no confirmation of whether they will also speak with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

A diplomatic source told Sky News earlier today Mr Lammy's main objective was to try to prevent "all-out war" in the Middle East, and we understand a meeting with the Israeli leader is expected too ( see 16.27 post ).

It comes amid fears of an Iranian attack on Israel, possibly carried out with the help of Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Iran has warned of a response following the killing of Hamas's leader in Tehran last month.

Mr Lammy and Mr Sejourne will call for calm and also for a ceasefire in Gaza, with talks on that having begun in Qatar today.

Mr Lammy said it was a "dangerous moment" for the region and "all parties must engage seriously in negotiations".

By Alix Culbertson , political reporter

People living in areas at the highest risk of flooding face cuts to key services due to a sharp rise in flood defence costs, councils have warned.

The government is being urged to overhaul funding for the bodies overseeing flood alleviation as soaring costs have seen an average rise of 28% over the past two years, according to data from the District Councils' Network, which represents 169 English councils.

Higher energy and fuel prices - needed for pumping stations - increasingly extreme wet weather and wage increases are the main causes of the cost of flood defences being pushed up for the current 2024/25 financial year.

By Deborah Haynes , security and defence editor

Ukrainian troops have used British Challenger 2 tanks in their offensive inside Russia, Sky News understands.

It is believed to be the first time British tanks - operated by Ukrainian soldiers - have been used in combat on Russian territory.

The Ministry of Defence in London declined to comment on operational detail, but did tell Sky News there has been no change in policy.

Ukraine's armed forces did not offer a comment.

According to government policy, the UK has confirmed Ukraine is free to use British weapons on Russian territory.

A source said this included Challenger 2 tanks and signalled that they had been used during the Ukrainian incursion, which began on 6 August.

On what was A-level results day, the education secretary was asked about the controversial prospect of raising tuition fees as many universities grapple with serious financial challenges.

Our business correspondent Paul Kelso   says the picture across the sector right now is pretty negative.

And that's because, anecdotally at least, there's been a 30% fall in how many overseas students are applying for British universities.

 " That matters because overseas students underwrite the British university system," says Paul. "They may make up about 26% of the academic population, but provide 46% of the fees."

So why the drop in applications? Britain's top universities have long been extremely popular with international students.

Paul says the sector thinks it's being driven largely by visa rule changes the previous government introduced, which include preventing foreign students from bringing family members with them.

It was a bid by Rishi Sunak to bring down levels of immigration.

The change and subsequent drop in applicants "poses a fundamental threat to the financial health of the university sector", says Paul.

"Domestic fees simply do not cover the cost".

The Sky News Daily podcast looked into this further - watch a clip below and find the full episode at the top of this page.

As students receive their A-level results, many of the universities they'll enrol in are facing their own concerns.

Academics have warned years of underfunding and a lack of lucrative international students at British universities after visa changes risk the sector's ability to provide top-class education and, for some institutions, whether they'll be able to keep teaching at all.  

On this episode, Niall Paterson is joined by two university vice-chancellors, Professor Jane Harrington at Greenwich and Professor David Maguire at East Anglia, to hear the realities and challenges faced by universities across the country.  

Plus, our business correspondent Paul Kelso explains why higher education is facing the crisis it's in now. 

👉 Click to subscribe to the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts 👈        

The Scottish first minster held talks with the deputy prime minister in Edinburgh today - and had a bone to pick.

John Swinney raised the UK government's decision to begin means testing the winter fuel payment, which means only those eligible for existing benefits will still receive it.

The SNP administration at Holyrood said yesterday it would have to adopt the same policy because the controversial move had left it with a £160m gap in spending power.

Mr Swinney has conceded it will impact "tens of thousands" of pensioners and "expressed concern" with Angela Rayner today.

He also reiterated his desire for an "injection of investment" in the country's public services.

But he's still hoping for a more positive relationship with the Labour government than his party had with the Tories, working together on "shared priorities" such as reaching net zero.

By Darren McCaffrey, political correspondent 

Make no two bones about it – it has been a good week on the economic news front.

Today's stellar GDP growth figures at 0.6% are in line with expectation but are also a reflection of a strong year of growth, with the UK the fastest growing in the G7 this year - although it has lagged slightly behind the US in Q2.

This - coupled with falling unemployment, wage growth and pretty stable inflation (listen to the podcast on this in the previous post) - means the macroeconomic situation has not looked this good in years.

Normally the government would be crowing from the rooftops about such good news.

Instead, the Treasury this morning continues to talk about the "scale of challenges" and being determined "to fix the foundations".

Why? Because they want to stop the Conservatives - who are unsurprisingly very frustrated - from being able to claim the last government left the country in a good state.

Politically, this is important for Labour – part of a wider strategy to thrash the Tory record, while cementing future credit for economic good news.

Despite the attempt to shape narratives, in the end voters will only really thank Labour if this stellar economic growth continues.

Inflation is up for the first time this year.   

Prices went up by 2.2% in the year to July – moving the rate above the Bank of England target of 2%.  

Experts had expected an up tick as energy prices are falling by less than they did a year ago, and the increase doesn't seem to change hope for further interest rate cuts in the months to come.

But what else can we expect from the economy this autumn as the new government continues to warn about the "challenges" it's inherited, and as the chancellor prepares her first budget in October?

Joining Niall Paterson  is our business correspondent Paul Kelso and political correspondent Darren McCaffrey . 

👉 Click to subscribe to the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts 👈       

It's time for your evening bulletin from the Politics Hub - summing up the main things you need to know today:

• The foreign secretary , David Lammy, is heading to Israel for talks with the country's prime minister;
• A source described the meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu as "an attempt to prevent all-out war" in the Middle East , amid fears of an Iranian attack on Israel and talks over a ceasefire in Gaza;
• Mr Lammy described it as a "crucial moment for global security" .
• Sticking with foreign policy, and the Ministry of Defence has said it's  happy for Ukraine to be using British weapons inside Russia ;
• Sky News understands tanks supplied by the UK are also being deployed across the border  during Kyiv's surprise incursion.
• On the domestic front,  the Tories claim the chancellor will be "fuming"  after new figures showed  Britain's economy grew during the previous quarter ;
• Rachel Reeves has repeatedly bemoaned the government's economic inheritance from Rishi Sunak's administration, but  GDP is up 0.6% - higher than other major European countries ;
• And on A-level results day , the education secretary told Sky News it would be  "unpalatable" to raise tuition fees  despite the financial challenges facing Britain's universities.

That's all for now - we'll bring you any further political news and analysis over the next few hours.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free