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Physician Cover Letter Example (W/ Templates & Tips for 2024)

You've come a long way since those early days of anatomy sketches and late-night study sessions.

Since your first introduction to medicine, your passion for healing and caring for others has only grown. Now, you're on the precipice of turning years of rigorous study and training into a fulfilling career as a physician.

There's just one hiccup; drafting that perfect cover letter seems more daunting than any diagnosis you've ever made.

That blank document staring back at you, waiting to summarize your entire medical journey and passion in a few paragraphs, feels oddly reminiscent of a challenging patient case. 

But there’s good news!

In this article, we'll teach you all you need to know to write a compelling physician cover letter without breaking a sweat.

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

• What Makes an Outstanding Physician Cover Letter Example
• 5 Steps to Crafting the Perfect Physician Cover Letter
• 3 Must-Know Cover Letter Tips for Aspiring Physicians

...and more!

Physician Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Physician Cover Letter

Alright, you've just had a glimpse of what a job-winning cover letter looks like. Now. it’s time to write your own . 

Just follow these steps, and you'll be on point:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Start your cover letter by listing your contact details. You'll want to position these details at the top of your cover letter, just like you would in your resume .

Here's the rundown on what to showcase:

• Full Name: You should list your full name at the very beginning. 
• Professional Title: Tailor the title on your cover letter to reflect the specific physician position you're aiming for. Given the diverse roles in the medical field, being precise about your specialization or the exact role makes things easier for the hiring team.
• Email Address: Opt for a straightforward and professional email. Those fun emails from back in the day won't fit the bill. For instance, while "[email protected]" might be memorable, it's better to go with something like "[email protected]." 
• Phone Number: List a number that you use and make sure all digits are correct. If you're casting your net internationally, don't forget the appropriate dial code.  
• Location: Simply noting your city and state or country should suffice. However, if you're open to relocation or applying for a telemedicine role, say so.  
• Relevant Links (Optional): Feel free to include any important websites, publications, or platforms, such as a LinkedIn profile .

With your information set, it's now time to add the hiring manager's information.

Here's your checklist:

• Medical Institution's Name: Note down the name of the hospital, clinic, or healthcare facility you're reaching out to. 
• Hiring Manager’s Name: If you can, pinpoint the name of the hiring manager or head of the department. A quick scan of the job listing, the institution's website, or LinkedIn could give you this insight.
• Hiring Manager’s Title: If you've identified a specific person, use their exact role or title. For example, "Chief of Surgery" is more precise than just "Hiring Manager."
• Location: List the city, state, or country, particularly for healthcare organizations with multiple branches. You could add the specific address if you wish.
• Email Address (Optional): If available, adding the hiring manager’s email can be a nice addition.  
• Date of Writing (Optional): For a final touch of professionalism, you can note down the date you penned your cover letter.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've jotted down your essential contact details , it’s time to address your cover letter to its intended audience.

A heads up: the age-old “To Whom It May Concern” is a tad out of style these days.

Your cover letter's opening line should set the ground for what’s to come, which means it should be well thought out and professional. 

First, pull out your detective hat. Dig into the job ad, sift through the hospital or clinic's website, or even look at their LinkedIn page. Your goal is to identify the chief physician or department head responsible for the role you're after.

When it comes to addressing them , a touch of formality works wonders. Leading with "Dr.", followed by their last name is classic. But if you're in the dark about their exact title, opt for their entire name. Here's a glimpse:

• Dear Dr. Williams,
• Dear Jordan Williams,

Now, if the name of the hiring manager or head of the department remains a mystery even after you search, don't fret! Address your letter to the broader medical team or the institution at large:

• Dear Medical Staff,
• Dear Physician Recruitment Team,
• Dear Human Resources Healthcare Division,
• Dear Head of Medicine,

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

With so many applications to consider, hiring managers typically spend only a few seconds deciding whether a candidate’s cover letter is worth reading. 

So, you can probably imagine how important it is to make a great first impression with your opening paragraph. 

Begin by introducing yourself and explicitly stating your enthusiasm for the position. Demonstrating your genuine interest in medicine and the specific role can genuinely intrigue those on the hiring end.

A dash of research about the healthcare institution or clinic can also help your case. The more informed you are, the better you can underscore how seamlessly you'd fit into their culture. This proactive approach signals to the hiring manager or committee that your application isn't just another tick on a long list, but a thought-out decision based on genuine interest.

Depending on your medical experience, consider starting off with a standout accomplishment or pinpointing one or two top skills that make you ideal for the role in question.

However, remember that brevity is the soul of wit. Your aim is to spark their interest, nudging them to read the rest of your cover letter without overwhelming them with details right off the bat.

Make sure to avoid these common cover letter mistakes to make your cover letter impeccable. 

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The body of your physician cover letter is where you can and should elaborate on the specifics of what makes you an exceptional candidate for the medical position.

Remember, it's essential not to merely repeat what's on your resume. This section provides an opportunity to truly emphasize your medical expertise and qualifications. Your primary goal is to persuade the hiring manager that, amidst all the candidates, you stand out for this role. 

Hence, bring up any accomplishments related to medicine that you may have listed on your resume and give the hiring manager more information about how you achieved them, what methods you followed, and what positive results they brought to your patients.

Additionally, tailor your cover letter by highlighting particular skills or experiences that the hospital or clinic mentions in their job description. For instance, if the role emphasizes expertise in pediatric care, focus on that rather than, say, your surgical experiences.

Demonstrating your understanding of the healthcare facility, its patient demographics, or its specialized services can significantly boost your appeal. If you're familiar with the hospital's recent research publications or their community outreach programs, highlight that knowledge in your cover letter. This shows you fit perfectly with their objectives and organizational culture.

Lastly, don't hold back on your passion. Let your enthusiasm for the role shine through, underscoring your eagerness to bring value to the institution with your distinct medical skills and insights.

If you want to get even more inspired, check out our cover letter examples in this article.

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Concluding your cover letter effectively is the final touch to presenting yourself as the ideal candidate.

Your concluding remarks should leave the hiring committee with a positive impression and reiterate the compelling points you've made throughout your letter.

This is your chance to clearly summarize and emphasize your clinical skills, experiences, or any unique medical training that sets you apart from all the competition.

Next, include a call to action, gently urging the hiring committee or medical director to delve deeper into your qualifications or to schedule a further discussion. By doing so, you not only demonstrate your genuine interest in the role but also improve your chances of advancing to the next stage of the hiring process — the coveted job interview .

Finally, select a sign-off that aligns with the formal tone of the medical industry, followed by your full name. An example would be:

I would be grateful for an opportunity to discuss how my medical experience and vision align with the values and goals of your institution. Please feel free to reach out at the given email or contact number to schedule a conversation.

Dr. Jane Smith

If you find "Sincerely" to be commonplace, you can choose one of the following alternatives:

• With appreciation,
• Best regards,
• Thank you for your time and consideration,

3 Essential Physician Cover Letter Tips

You've got the fundamentals of cover letter writing down. Now, let's bring your game up a notch with some expert cover letter tips tailored for aspiring physicians:

#1. Match Your Resume

If you really want to land that physician position, you need to do a bit more than carefully craft the contents of your cover letter. Instead, your entire job application should be in harmony, both visually and content-wise. 

Your cover letter and physician resume should match each other, otherwise, you might come off as unorganized and unattentive to detail. 

As you can imagine, no one will want to hire a physician who’s both of those things. 

The text along with your contact details should be neatly arranged on the page, and the font styles and sizes should remain consistent throughout both documents. Additionally, pay attention to the margins and line spacing, so that your cover letter doesn’t spill over to page two. Hiring managers want a snapshot of your career, not your professional novel. 

Ready to nail it? 

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

As a physician, you likely have a lot of other things to be doing than making sure your cover letter and resume look good next to each other. 

So why not make things easier for yourself? 

It's as simple as using one of our cover letter templates . Together with our free resume builder, they can be the answer to all of your problems. 

Designed in collaboration with hiring managers worldwide, you're guaranteed a match for your resume that meets all industry standards while looking professional and stylish. Our templates are not just time savers; they look great and do the job impressively!

#2. Be Enthusiastic 

A crucial ingredient in creating an effective cover letter is enthusiasm. This doesn't mean you should be overflowing with praise for the company you're applying to. Instead, emphasizing your zeal for the medical field and demonstrating a positive attitude throughout your application process could make the right impression.

Crafting a cover letter filled with enthusiasm shows your passion and dedication to the field of medicine. Hiring managers tend to gravitate towards candidates who are not only qualified but are also enthusiastic about the work they’re going to do.

Enthusiasm can also show your earnestness and willingness to contribute to the healthcare community. Positivity can set you apart from other candidates who take a colder approach.

That said, it's equally important to not get carried away, or you run the risk of appearing overconfident. While you want to showcase your contributions and potential, excessive self-praise or company flattery could backfire.

The cover letter is not a platform to brag about your accomplishments. Instead, it should offer a balanced view of your qualifications, experience, and work ethic. Pay attention to the fine line between confidence and arrogance.

So use your cover letter as an opportunity to convey your genuine excitement for the profession. When presented appropriately, your positivity and passion could open doors to your dream physician job.

#3. Be Formal

Another key aspect to remember when crafting your cover letter is maintaining a formal tone. But keep in mind that formal doesn't mean stiff or distant; it's more about being respectful and professional while communicating your thoughts.

Adopting a formal tone shows employers your understanding of, and adherence to, professional norms. This sends a clear message: that you take your job application seriously. It demonstrates a commitment to securing the job and respect for the opportunity at hand.

Make sure that you don’t overdo it, though. You don’t want your cover letter to be too rigid or impersonal. Employers are not just seeking a skilled physician but also a person who is approachable and can effectively communicate and connect with their team and patients. 

So, while it's important to be professional, it's equally necessary to be personable, keeping a conversational tone that resonates with the reader.

Striking this balance is where the real art lies. It's about giving the employer a visually clear and respected format, but filled with content that's warm and engaging. This will leave a lasting impression and could potentially give you an edge in the hiring process. So aim for that sweet spot - a cover letter that's professional, yet approachable, warm, yet respectful. Get this right, and you're one step closer to clinching that physician job.

Key Takeaways

You're now well-equipped to craft a top-notch physician cover letter!

With the insights shared, you should be ready to embark on your journey to land that dream physician role.

Here are the main points to remember:

• Ensure your cover letter and resume have a unified and professional appearance. Utilizing an online resume builder and selecting a corresponding cover letter template can streamline this process.
• Begin your physician cover letter by introducing yourself and the purpose of your letter. Then, highlight a unique skill or qualification that sets you apart.
• Use the main section of your cover letter to elaborate on your merits as a candidate. Discuss key achievements and provide context for any aspects not fully explained in your resume, like employment breaks.
• Double-check the contact details you provide. Any error in your phone number or email might cost you an interview opportunity.

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Physician Cover Letters: Why Writing a Good One Is As Important As Ever

Career resources content posted on NEJM CareerCenter is produced by freelance health care writers as an advertising service of NEJM Group, a division of the Massachusetts Medical Society and should not be construed as coming from, or representing the views of, the New England Journal of Medicine , NEJM Group, or the Massachusetts Medical Society

Physicians seeking a practice opportunity might think of the cover letter as an old-fashioned, generally unimportant component of their application for or expression of interest in a position, but that is not the case. In this digital age of clipped, often rapid-fire communications, the cover letter has become more important than ever because it offers a way to differentiate the physician from other candidates. It provides a vehicle for sharing personal and professional information that might be important to prospective employers but doesn’t quite fit in the CV. The cover letter should be brief, well written, professional and positive in tone, and absolutely error-free. It should also give the recipient the sense that the physician has researched the opportunity or organization before writing the letter.

By Bonnie Darves

When a physician encounters the seemingly perfect practice opportunity — with a mid-sized group in their hometown that is affiliated with a health system that has an excellent reputation — it’s tempting to quickly compose the requested cover letter to accompany her CV and send it off.

Yes, it is smart to express interest in a desirable position as soon as possible, but it’s not prudent to view the cover letter as a mere formality. Today, when so much communication between physicians and recruiters or prospective employers is electronic — in either brief email responses or via online forms — the cover letter has become increasingly important. Here’s why: The carefully crafted letter offers an opportunity to differentiate the resident or fellow from other physicians who respond, and a chance to demonstrate highly personalized interest in the position.

“The cover letter’s value is certainly not decreasing in the digital age. Because it is usually the second contact physicians have with an organization, it is very important,” said James Tysinger, PhD, vice chair for professional development in the University of Texas Health Science Center department of family and community medicine in San Antonio. “It is your opportunity to include something about who you are, and to provide information that won’t be in your CV about why the position and the geographic location interest you.” For the resident seeking a fellowship, the letter is the ideal vehicle to convey to the program director that the physician has researched the program’s focus and reputation, he added.

Longtime recruiter Regina Levison, president of the national firm Levison Search Associates, agrees that the geographic preference statement is a vital piece of information that should appear early in the letter. “The geographic ‘connection’ to the opportunity’s location is the most important message you can include — whether it’s because you grew up there, have relatives in the region, or simply have always dreamed of living or working there,” Ms. Levison said. “Health care organizations today are not just recruiting to fill a specific opportunity; they are recruiting for retention.” As the health care delivery system changes to incorporate accountable care organizations and quality focused reimbursement, organizations are seeking physicians who will “stay around” to help meet long-term organizational objectives.

Craig Fowler, president of the National Association of Physician Recruiters (NAPR), and vice president of recruiting and training for Pinnacle Health Group in Atlanta, urges residents to include at least an introductory cover letter or note with their CV, even when it’s not requested. In his experience, 8 out of 10 physicians who express initial interest in a position don’t take the effort to write a letter unless asked.

“The cover letter really is a differentiator, and even though a recruiter will always look at your CV first, the letter is nice to have. I often feel that it gives me a sense of the physician — a good letter can make the physician come to life,” Mr. Fowler said. He enjoys, for example, learning about the physician’s personal interests and family, in addition to what he seeks in a practice opportunity.

Peter Cebulka, director of recruiting development for the national firm Merritt Hawkins, agrees that the cover letter can provide information that isn’t appropriate in a CV but could be important to a hiring organization. “The letter gives you a chance to talk about your professional goals, or why you’re committed to a particular area or practice setting,” Mr. Cebulka said. It can also highlight something compelling about the physician’s residency program that the recipient might not know.

If there are gaps in the CV that are not sensitive in nature, and therefore don’t require a phone conversation, that information should be included in the letter. “It’s important to briefly explain gaps because your application might be passed over if you don’t,” Mr. Fowler said.

Jim Stone, co-founder and president of The Medicus Firm, a national physician search company, offers helpful guidance on incorporating a career objective in the cover letter. “You may want to include a career objective or job search goals, but be careful not to be too specific or you may rule yourself out of consideration,” he advised. “Therefore, if there is one goal that really sums up your search, or some objective that is a must-have for you under any circumstances, it would be okay to include that.”

On another note, Mr. Stone urges physicians to include brief examples of any soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, technological aptitude, leadership, or problem solving.

Format and structure: short and targeted works While there are no rules per se about a cover letter’s length or content, there are general guidelines for what works best and is likely to be well received. (See “Cover letters: What to do, what to avoid” section at the end of this article.) Dr. Tysinger, who counsels residents and practicing physicians on preparing CVs and cover letters, and frequently presents on the topic, recommends a single-page, three-paragraph format delivered in a professional, business letter layout, in simple language. Following is his basic guidance on the letter’s structure:

• First paragraph: Introduce yourself and state why you are writing — whether that is to be considered for a specific position, to express general interest in joining the organization, or the recommendation of a colleague.
• Second paragraph: Provide brief details about yourself and why you are interested in the opportunity and the location. Note any professional connections to the opportunity or organization, and any special skills or interests, such as management or teaching.
• Third paragraph: Thank the recipient for the opportunity to apply and for reviewing your CV, and end the letter with a statement indicating that you look forward to hearing from the recipient soon.

Other sources agreed that cover letters should not exceed one page, unless special circumstances dictate an extra paragraph or two. In that case, a two-page letter is acceptable. Ms. Levison advised briefly summarizing education and training in the second paragraph, and if it’s the physician’s first opportunity search, stating briefly why he became a physician.

It’s best to avoid going into extensive detail about personal interests or extracurricular pursuits. That could give the recipient the impression that the physician is more concerned about lifestyle than medical practice.

Professional tone, error-free content are musts It should go without saying that the cover letter must be professionally written and free of spelling or grammatical errors, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case. All of the recruiters interviewed for this article have received cover letters that are poorly written or, in some cases, replete with misspellings; all agreed that an error-riddled letter could prevent its writer from being considered for an opportunity regardless of her or his qualifications.

Of course, word processing programs include spell-checkers and, usually, some grammar-checking functionality. That’s helpful, but it isn’t sufficient vetting to ensure the letter is in excellent shape. Because of the letter’s potential importance, physicians should have several trusted individuals — on the professional and personal side — review the document, including a professional editor, if warranted. “If writing isn’t your strong suit, or English isn’t your first language, do get professional advice before you finalize the letter,” Mr. Cebulka recommends.

Ms. Levinson offers pointed advice regarding double-checking for errors. “Are there any typos or mistakes that would make the new organization question your ability to keep accurate records?” she said. It’s worth noting that some recruiting firms offer assistance with cover letter writing, but it’s best not to count on that service.

Striking the right tone in the cover letter can be somewhat challenging when the resident doesn’t have a good sense of the organization offering the opportunity. Some hospitals or groups are very formal, and therefore expect to receive formal communication. Others might be somewhat casual, from the standpoint of their culture, and therefore less inclined to bring in a physician who comes across as stiff, even if she isn’t. For these reasons, it’s smart to research the hiring entity to the extent possible before finishing the letter. The group’s website or the health system’s physician portal are good starting places to gauge the culture, but a discussion with a physician who practices there, happily, also can be helpful.

Ideally, the letter’s tone should be professional but friendly, and should sound like its writer, and not like a cookie-cutter form letter. “The letter should be professional and warm, and the tone should also reflect how you would communicate with patients and staff,” Ms. Levison said.

“A little colloquialism is OK, if it shows your personality,” Mr. Fowler maintains, provided the overall tone remains professional.

The sources concurred that the cover letter is not the forum for including a laundry list of the physician’s position parameters, or for negotiating compensation or other potential contract terms. Physicians in a highly recruited specialty might mention required equipment or infrastructure, if the lack of those items would preclude further discussion. But for the most part, those specifics should be left for an on-site interview.

“If the parameter is a potential deal-breaker, you can mention it, but avoid sounding inflexible,” Mr. Cebulka advised. That means not setting limits on the amount of call, or number of night shifts or weekends, for example. Those details can be discussed and possibly negotiated later.

Very important parameters should, however, be provided to the recruiter outside the context of the cover letter if such detail is requested. That’s especially important if the recruiter will introduce the physician to multiple opportunities.

“If you’re in a highly recruited specialty, there will be plenty of opportunities. But it’s helpful for recruiters to know what you’re absolutely looking for, so that you don’t waste your time or theirs,” Mr. Cebulka said.

Cover letters: What to do, what to avoid The sources who contributed to this article offered these additional tips on what physicians should do, or not do, when they craft their cover letters.

• Address the cover letter to an individual physician, practice administrator, recruiter, or other individual as the situation warrants, and not “to whom it may concern.”
• Be upbeat and positive. Ensure that the letter’s tone reflects your excitement about medicine, and that it reflects the way you would speak in an in-person interview.
• Include letters of reference with the cover letter if you’re looking for a fellowship or are formally applying for a specific position.
• Close the letter with a call to action if it’s an ideal opportunity (and likely a popular one). Let the recipient know that you will call in a few days to follow up, and indicate when you would be available to meet in person. It doesn’t hurt to state the best ways to reach you.
• Don’t sound desperate or beg for the job, even if it’s the perfect opportunity or you are worried about securing a position.
• Steer clear of “selling” yourself or making claims about why you would be the absolute best candidate. Instead, let your credentials and references make the case for you.
• Avoid sarcasm in any context, and generally steer clear of humor, unless you know the person to whom the letter is addressed very well.
• Don’t disparage individuals, programs, or institutions if you have had a negative experience somewhere — regardless of the reason.

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Writing Compelling Physician Cover Letters

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Medical Doctor Cover Letter Examples

Medical Doctors are in charge for examining patients, diagnosing their conditions, and recommending treatments. Medical Doctors can be specialized in multiple medical areas, such as cardiology, pediatrics, or infectious diseases. Essential responsibilities of a Medical Doctor include providing patient care, talking to patients to diagnose their conditions, performing various procedures, doing paperwork, collaborating with medical and non-medical staff, supervising junior doctors and medical students, promoting health education, and taking part in educational opportunities.

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More Medical Doctor Cover Letter Examples

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Free Medical Doctor cover letter example

Dear Ms. Mercado:

As a skilled Medical Doctor with 16 years of experience providing general practice examination, diagnosis, and treatment services to a wide variety of patients, I am pleased to present the enclosed CV detailing my credentials. My background providing an exceptional level of patient care positions me to substantially assist your medical facility in meeting—and outperforming—its healthcare goals.

From leading evaluative consultations and performing diagnostic tests to ordering and interpreting lab results and prescribing medications, my experience in managing direct patient care and enhancing patient satisfaction positions me to excel in this role. Furthermore, with my earned reputation for superior communication skills and an excellent bedside manner, I am sure to positively impact patient relations in this capacity and increase patient loyalty and referrals.

Highlights of my experience and qualifications include:

Excelling throughout 15-year career as a General Family Physician with Associates of Medical Health through the St. Patrick Medical Center, diagnosing physical and mental illnesses, disorders, and injuries while prescribing individualized medications and treatment plans to restore optimal health and wellbeing.

Administering treatments, vaccinations, and specialized medical care to approximately 28 patients each day.

Utilizing deep and exhaustive knowledge of diverse medical conditions to assist in providing appropriate medications and treatments to patients.

Provided vital support in surgical procedures as needed—including OB/GYN procedures.

Documenting patient information and communicating with ancillary staff.

Performing an array of administrative tasks including records management and prescription order submission.

Earning my medical degree from Johns Hopkins University in 1997.

With my expertise in providing direct care and treatment for a variety of patient types, I am confident that I can greatly contribute to your practice. I look forward to discussing this opportunity, and my qualifications, in further detail.

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

Benjamin R. Zamora

Include These Medical Doctor Skills

• Clinical skills
• Medical teamwork
• Stamina and resilience
• Availability for work in shifts
• Good listening and communication skills
• Being able to interact with all sorts of patients
• Computer competences
• Attention to details
• Integrity and work ethics

Medical Resume Examples

See more medical resume samples.

A professional cover letter is the first step toward your new job!

Physician Cover Letter Examples and Tips

Use ResumeHelp physician cover letter examples along with writing tips from career experts to create a professional cover letter for your physician job search.

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Featured physician cover letter example

As a physician, you know that your colleagues, patients and the patients’ families rely on your expertise, skills, education and certifications. The same holds true for when you apply for a new position and need to show your capabilities to the medical hiring staff. Your physician cover letter is a major step in convincing a potential employer that you’re a qualified physician deserving to continue in the hiring process and land a job interview.

Our experts provide physician job seekers like you with the necessary tips and content to help you create a strong cover letter. Here is a physician cover letter example text that can be used for a physician assistant role but can be tailored for your career information, targeting whatever medical position you’re applying for.

Physician cover letter example: text version

Use this physician cover letter example to create your own professional cover letter for any medical job.

[Sender Name] [Sender Address and email]

[Today’s Date]

[Company Address] [Phone Number] [[email protected]]

Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms.Name,

I’m writing to express interest in the orthopedic physician assistant position at [medical center]. I am currently completing my postgraduate program at [university]. I am searching for a PA position to fill my CME credits. In my most recent position at XYZ Hospital in [city], I was responsible for:

• Inpatient and outpatient care
• Prescribing medications
• Ordering lab tests and x-rays
• Assisting in surgery

I am eager to find a position where I can broaden my skill set in this medical discipline. I was referred to the position by my [referral source] as he knows I have a special interest in orthopedics.

[Discuss skills and background.] I am committed to healthcare, furthering my training and skills, and improving the lives of patients. I take pride in my attention to detail and personal connection to patients. I am a team player who values helping others. I would be honored to be a part of the work at [medical center].

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to discussing the position further via phone [phone number] or email [email address].

[Your Full Name]

Physician cover letter: 5 key tips

Here are five key tips you need to know to highlight your medical credentials in your cover letter.

Start with background and skill highlights

Depending on the medical doctor job you’re applying for, you will begin your cover letter with a brief background of your career history. This may include your best, most relevant skills from your career, or your top experiences. Did your recent rotation working in the emergency department, diagnosing and treating 37+ patients during a 12-hour shift, land you recognition for efficiency, accurate diagnoses and a favorable patient rating? State your most impressive accomplishments right away to get the reader’s attention and quickly stand out from other job candidates.

Spell out your credentials and achievements

In addition to your education, grades and licenses, be sure to highlight your relevant work-related accolades. Were you presented with puzzling symptoms of a patient and your medical research skills led you to find an accurate diagnosis of a rare medical ailment? Did you recommend a patient immediately see a specialist, thereby saving the person’s life and getting you recognized in the medical group’s annual newsletter? Your medical degree puts you in line with all other physician applicants but your notable achievements is what will make you stand out during the hiring process.

Focus on how you can make a positive impact in the job

If you’re applying to a specific medical facility whether a clinic, hospital or office setting, do your research to learn as much as possible about the prospective employer. Browse their website or social media to read up on the latest press releases, customer testimonials or posts. What caught your attention that makes you believe that you will fit in the culture and mission and contribute to the organization's success? In your cover letter, emphasizing these points shows that you’re not just sending the same cover letter with every job application, but instead have taken the time to learn about the specific medical institution.

Present a mix of hard and soft skills

While a physician’s education and experience is a must-have requirement, prospective employers will also be looking for a mixture of hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills (technical) like medical knowledge, research, diagnosis, treatment and medical reporting are necessary to perform the job of a physician but soft skills like good communication , problem-solving and resilience are just as important. A physician needs to be a confident, quick thinker and display solid interpersonal skills with patients and their families, as well as with medical staff and administrative team members.

Proofread for grammar and accuracy

You already know that attention to detail is crucial for a physician. Don’t forget to proofread your cover letter for typos before you submit it along with your physician resume and job application. Writing about excellent "patent care" rather than "patient care," or noting that you’ve been named in “medical journals” when you’ve actually been named in medical email newsletters can reflect poorly on you. Accuracy counts during a job search. If you’re short on time, ask a friend or colleague to review your letter. Better yet, use our Cover Letter Builder and its built-in spell check tools.

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Write a physician cover letter in 5 steps.

As a practicing physician, you already demonstrated the intelligence, diligence and motivation to complete medical school, so with a little time and effort, you can demonstrate your outstanding medical knowledge and hands-on experience to a potential employer through a strong cover letter. Reference our physician cover letter examples on this page and then write your letter following these five steps:

1. Cover letter header/contact information

Your header is important for a few reasons. First, it prominently provides your name in a larger more bolded font so the reader knows who the job candidate is. Secondly, including your phone number and email address allows the hiring manager, recruiter or prospective employer to quickly get the information needed to contact you for a job interview. It also helps to include any professional networking links such as Linkedin. As you would typically see in a business letter , also list the hiring manager’s contact information, company, job title and address below your information.

Your Name Your address City, State Zip code Your email address Your phone number

Hiring manager’s name Company name Company address City, State Zip code

2. Cover letter salutation/greeting

When addressing your cover letter speak directly to the hiring manager’s name. It’s better to personalize the letter to a specific person, rather than using a generic salutation for a cover letter like “Dear Hiring Manager” or “ To Whom It May Concern .” If finding their name proves difficult, you can address the letter to the department or human resources. For example:

Dear Ms. Davis, Dear Mr. Davis, Dear Dr. Davis,

3. Opening paragraph/introduction

Use the first paragraph to quickly introduce yourself and your achievements with a “hook.” What inspired your genuine interest in the medical profession? Dig deep and say what makes you right for the specific physician position you’re applying for. Be specific and concise. Use bullet points to highlight your biggest achievements in the medical field or key factors that make you the best physician candidate for the role.

From the time I witnessed my seven year-old twin sister get hit by an automobile in 2005 and was mesmerized by the process of her diagnosis, surgery, recovery and successful rehab, I was sure I would become an emergency room physician. Throughout my medical school rotations at Harper General Hospital in Cleveland, I was focused on specializing in ER work. Seeing your open role as an emergency room physician at St. Frances would be an extra exciting career opportunity for me, in addition to the fact that it was the hospital that my twin sister and I were born at, with each of us spending three weeks in the NICU.

4. Cover letter body paragraph(s)

Use the second paragraph to provide more information about how you’re the best fit for the physician job. Let the hiring manager know why you are interested in this job and what value you can bring to the hospital or other medical facility. Mention the specific required skills that you see in the job description so that your job application is flagged by the applicant tracking system (ATS) that is set up to select qualified physician job candidates through skills and experience in the form of skills and job requirements. In this section of your cover letter, it’s also a good place to include:

• How did you learn about the physician position or your reference if you have one?
• How do you plan to use your medical skills and background to not only meet but exceed the job requirements?

In my seven years of experience working in the medical field, I’ve been awarded Physician of the Month seven times at the Pinehurst Hospital for my effort with diagnosing, treating and offering compassionate care to cardiac patients and their families. Those skills plus my ability to work well with medical teams throughout the hospital makes me confident to say that I can achieve great results in the CCU at Winthrop Hospital as well. My diligence and research skills to find a diagnosis and accurately make a treatment plan are attributes I know are important to your medical establishment.

5. Cover letter closing

Use the third paragraph to include a call to action. This is where you can request a follow-up interview with the hiring manager or recruiter. Start by expressing your gratitude for their time and consideration. Then, remind them you are a good fit for the role. Finally, close out your cover letter with an invitation for the hiring manager to discuss the opportunity further with you via an interview or phone call. At the end, confirm that your contact information is accurate so the hiring manager can contact you.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you further regarding how I can contribute my cardiac care skills to the continued success of Winthrop Hospital. I welcome the opportunity to offer my medical expertise within this field, through diagnosing and treating cardiac patients, and offering expertise in patient education. 

Key skills for a physician cover letter

It’s an obvious fact that graduating from an accredited medical school gaining a medical license is mandatory for a physician; however, performing effective physician duties require an important set of skills to provide patients with care, compassion and an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Hard skills , such as identifying symptoms, diagnosing patients, creating treatment plans and performing medical procedures, are learned through education and on the job training. Soft skills like patience and the ability to work well with others are personality traits that each physician should possess to provide well rounded medical care.

Here are some physician skills you can mention in your own physician cover letter:

• Problem-solving skills
• Critical thinking
• Decision making
• Measuring vital signs
• Human anatomy
• Intelligence
• Professionalism
• Communication skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Imaging reading
• Medical reporting
• Respectfulness
• Active listening
• Computer skills
• Strategic thinking
• Analytical thinking
• Detail-oriented
• Time management 
• Adaptability
• Technical skills

Create your physician cover letter (and resume) with our help

If you want to build the most powerful physician cover letter and matching physician resume, try our builder tools, templates and examples to create your own letter in minutes. Here are some popular pages that you should look at:

Cover Letter Builder : Write your physician cover letter in minutes by using this amazing cover letter building tool.

Cover Letter Templates : Look through our library of industry-specific cover letter templates to use as base for your physician cover letter.

Cover Letter Examples : No need to write your physician cover letter from scratch when you can look at our huge selection of cover letter examples for different job roles and industries.

How to Format a Cover Letter : Learn how to professionally format your physician cover letter so it stands out and matches your resume design.

Physician Assistant Cover Letter Examples : If you’re applying as a physician assistant, these examples will show you how to make your cover letter stand out from the competition.

Medical Cover Letter Example and Template : If you’re not sure where to start to write a strong medical cover letter, take a look at the cover letter example on this page.

Doctor Resume Examples and Tips : Use this doctor resume example to write a medical doctor resume that helps you get the job.

Healthcare Resume Examples : This health care resume sample can be used as a foundation for a variety of health care jobs.

FAQ: Physician cover letter

Have questions? We’re here to help.

How do you write a powerful cover letter?

Besides the obvious educational requirements needed to become a doctor, a powerful cover letter should include information that demonstrates your passion for the field, a glimpse into your personality and an explanation of makes you a great job candidate. Make the hiring manager see what you can offer the medical facility that other candidates won’t be able to offer. Align your career goals with that of the employer and specifically state how you can help the medical organization achieve its goals. Since most physician candidates will have acquired similar medical degrees, focus on your specific physician work experience and most impressive qualifications.

What are the three most important items to include on a cover letter?

The most important items to include in your cover letter writing are:

• Opening paragraph: Catch attention quickly by hooking the reader with a clever statement summarizing your background, years of work experience and passion for the medical field.
• One or two body paragraphs: Boldly emphasize how your experience can help you exceed the requirements with show stopping medical experience, top-notch skills and major accomplishments.
• Closing paragraph: Thank the reader, reiterate the specific physician role, and most importantly, make a strong call to action for landing a job interview.

To learn how to effectively feature these items, read the cover letter physician examples on this page.

Do physicians need a cover letter?

Yes. A cover letter shows the hiring manager or recruiter that you are excited about the new job opportunity. Picture twenty applicants who attended the same medical school. How do you decide who to call for an interview? What you explain to hiring managers in your cover letter about your skills and how you think you can fit in can give you a boost over the competition. Think of your physician cover letters as a more in-depth exploration of some of your resume highlights, after you write your resume .

How long should a physician cover letter be?

The best cover letter will fill about 75 percent of the page. Not only is this aesthetically pleasing, but it also ensures that it is easy for the hiring manager to read and absorb information. You want your medical doctor cover letter to showcase your communication skills and convey your best attributes in short and sweet fashion. Look at the cover letter physician examples on this page to see how to write the ideal cover letter length .

What kind of design should my cover letter have?

While cover letters can have different design elements and aesthetics, it is important not to distract from the message. To create your own unique medical doctor cover letter while ensuring you have the best format and design to get the job, use the ResumeHelp Cover Letter Builder . Our builder comes with cover letter templates you can use to easily create a new cover letter for each specific job you apply to.

Couldn't find the answer you're looking for?

You can always contact us.

Donna is a career expert with extensive experience in the fields of Marketing, Publishing, Direct Mail and Communications. She’s witnessed firsthand the importance of a powerful resume and cover letter to a job search, so she takes great pride in helping change the lives of job seekers by sharing expert career advice and tips to help land the perfect job.

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Medical Doctor Cover Letter Example (Free Guide)

Create an medical doctor cover letter that lands you the interview with our free examples and writing tips. use and customize our template and land an interview today..

Are you applying for a medical doctor job? Writing a cover letter can be a daunting task. Our Medical Doctor Cover Letter Guide will provide you with the knowledge and resources you need to make sure your cover letter stands out from the competition. Here, you will find useful tips and tricks to make sure your cover letter is engaging and effective.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• What a cover letter template is, and why you should use it.

Related Cover Letter Examples

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• Therapist Cover Letter Sample
• Family Physician Cover Letter Sample
• General Dentist Cover Letter Sample
• General Practitioner Cover Letter Sample
• General Surgeon Cover Letter Sample
• Gynecologist Cover Letter Sample
• Laboratory Technologist Cover Letter Sample

Medical Doctor Cover Letter Sample

• Medical Laboratory Technician Cover Letter Sample
• Obstetrician Cover Letter Sample
• Ophthalmologist Cover Letter Sample
• Optician Cover Letter Sample
• Orthodontist Cover Letter Sample
• Pediatric Dentist Cover Letter Sample

Dear Recruiting Manager,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the Medical Doctor position you are currently advertising. With a strong medical background and a passion for patient care, I am confident that I would be an ideal fit for this opportunity.

I am a Board-certified physician with over four years of experience in a busy hospital setting. I specialize in Internal Medicine and have worked with a wide variety of patients, ranging from young adults to seniors. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care, and I am well-versed in the latest advances in the field. During my time as a physician, I have developed excellent communication skills, which I use to build a trusting relationship with my patients.

In addition to my clinical duties, I am also an active member of several professional medical organizations. I have presented at local and national conferences and have published several articles in medical journals. I understand the importance of staying up to date on the latest medical technologies and treatments, and I am always eager to learn and expand my knowledge.

I am confident that I have the skills and experience you are looking for in a Medical Doctor. I would love the opportunity to discuss my qualifications in more detail. I am available to meet with you at your convenience and look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Your Name

Why Do you Need a Medical Doctor Cover Letter?

• A Medical Doctor cover letter is an essential tool in the job search process as it serves as an introduction to the employer and highlights your qualifications and experience.
• It can help to set you apart from other applicants and demonstrate that you are a good fit for the role you are applying for.
• Your cover letter should provide insight into why you are the best candidate for the job, and why you are passionate about the field of medicine.
• It should also showcase your knowledge and skills related to the role you are applying for, such as clinical experience, research, and other relevant qualifications.
• A Medical Doctor cover letter is an excellent way to demonstrate your commitment to the medical field and your desire to make a difference in the lives of those you serve.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Use a professional font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri in a size 12 font.
• Include the date of application, position you are applying for, and contact information.
• Address the hiring manager by name if possible.
• Include a brief introduction of yourself and why you are interested in the position.
• Highlight the skills and experiences that make you suited for the role.
• Stay focused on the job requirements and demonstrate how you meet them.
• Write in an organized and structured format.
• Keep the letter concise and to the point; one page is recommended.
• Proofread the letter for spelling and grammar mistakes.
• Close the letter by expressing your enthusiasm for the position and thanking the reader.

What's The Best Structure For Medical Doctor Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Medical Doctor resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Medical Doctor cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Medical Doctor Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the position of Medical Doctor at your clinic. I am confident that my qualifications and experience make me an ideal candidate for this role.

I am a highly experienced Medical Doctor with over 10 years of experience in a variety of medical settings. I am an expert in diagnosing and treating a wide range of medical conditions, from minor illnesses to chronic conditions. My extensive knowledge of medical procedures and treatments, combined with my excellent communication and interpersonal skills, make me an ideal candidate for this role.

I have a proven track record of providing excellent patient care, including managing complex medical cases. I am highly organized and detail-oriented, and I have a strong commitment to patient safety and confidentiality. I am also able to effectively collaborate with other medical professionals, including physicians, nurses, and other physician assistants.

In addition, I am proficient in using the latest medical technology and software. I have a strong understanding of medical coding and health insurance policies. I am also comfortable working with a wide variety of patients, and I have experience providing medical care to diverse populations.

I am confident that I have the skills and experience necessary to be an effective Medical Doctor at your clinic. I am eager to discuss my qualifications with you further and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

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

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Medical Doctor Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Failing to customize the cover letter for the specific job and organization
• Using vague language and not providing specific examples of relevant skills and experience
• Using incorrect grammar, spelling, and punctuation
• Not addressing the cover letter to a specific person
• Not including contact information in the cover letter
• Including irrelevant information in the cover letter
• Not proofreading the cover letter for errors

Key Takeaways For a Medical Doctor Cover Letter

• Be sure to include your relevant qualifications and certifications.
• Highlight your experience and skills in the medical field.
• Include any professional awards or recognition you have received.
• Explain how your knowledge and skills make you an ideal candidate for the job.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm and interest in the position.
• Proofread your letter for any grammar or spelling errors.

Professional Doctor Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your doctor cover letter must immediately highlight your relevant clinical experience. Showcase your expertise matching the specialty of the job you're applying for. Demonstrate your commitment to patient care with concrete examples. Connect your professional values to the missions and goals of the institution.

Cover Letter Guide

Doctor Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Doctor Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Embarking on your job hunt, you've likely discovered that crafting a doctor cover letter is pivotal. However, this document can stump many with its purpose: not merely echoing your resume, but eloquently highlighting a professional pinnacle that defines you. Striking a balance between formality and freshness, while avoiding clichés, can be tough. Remember, brevity is key — your impactful narrative should captivate but never exceed one page. Let's navigate these challenges to ensure your cover letter stands out.

• Personalize your doctor cover letter and get inspired by other professionals to tell a compelling story;
• Format and design your doctor cover letter to make an excellent first impression;
• Introduce your best achievement in your doctor cover letter to recruiters;
• How to make sure recruiters get in touch with you, using your doctor cover letter greeting and closing paragraphs.

What is more, did you know that Enhancv's AI can write your cover letter for you? Just upload your doctor resume and get ready to forward your job application in a flash.

If the doctor isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Doctor resume guide and example
• Professional Nurse cover letter example
• Therapist cover letter example
• Occupational Health Nurse cover letter example
• Nursing Home Social Worker cover letter example
• Medical Assistant cover letter example
• Psychologist cover letter example
• Medical Technologist cover letter example
• In Home Caregiver cover letter example
• Pediatric Dental Assistant cover letter example
• Company Nurse cover letter example

Doctor cover letter example

Lucas Rodriguez

Charlotte, NC

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Emphasizing the alignment of personal practice with the institution's mission and innovative approaches enhances the relevance of the candidate's experience to the role.
• Providing concrete outcomes, such as the reduction in wait times by 20% and enhancing diagnostic accuracy by 15% through specific projects, showcases the candidate's impact and effectiveness in their past roles.
• Discussing the direct experience with relevant technologies, like telemedicine and AI diagnostics tools, positions the candidate as an individual who is adept at integrating technology within the healthcare field.
• Mentioning leadership in past initiatives indicates the ability to manage projects and drive innovation, which is valuable in a progressive healthcare institution.

What about your doctor cover letter format: organizing and structuring your information

Here is one secret you should know about your doctor cover letter assessment. The Applicant Tracker System (or ATS) won't analyze your cover letter.

You should thus focus on making an excellent impression on recruiters by writing consistent:

• Introduction
• Body paragraphs (and explanation)
• Promise or Call to action
• Signature (that's optional)

Now, let's talk about the design of your doctor cover letter.

Ensure all of your paragraphs are single-spaced and have a one-inch margins on all sides (like in our cover letter templates ).

Also, our cover letter builder automatically takes care of the format and comes along with some of the most popular (and modern) fonts like Volkhov, Chivo, and Bitter.

Speaking of fonts, professionals advise you to keep your doctor cover letter and resume in the same typography and avoid the over-used Arial or Times New Roman.

When wondering whether you should submit your doctor cover letter in Doc or PDF, select the second, as PDF keeps all of your information and design consistent.

The top sections on a doctor cover letter

• Header with Contact Information: Include your name, address, phone number, and email so the recruiter can easily reach you, and add the date and the employer's contact information to show professionalism and attention to detail.
• Opening Greeting: Address the recruiter or hiring manager by name if possible, as personalization demonstrates that you’ve conducted research and are genuinely interested in the position at their healthcare facility.
• Introduction with Relevant Credentials: Begin with a strong opening statement that highlights your medical qualifications, years of experience, and special areas of expertise, which are crucial for making a strong first impression.
• Body of Experience and Skills: Elaborate on your clinical experiences, specialized training, and patient care philosophy, linking these to the requirements of the job to show you are a perfect fit for the role and understand the healthcare provider's needs.
• Closing and Call to Action: Conclude by reiterating your interest in the position, suggesting an in-person or virtual meeting, and thanking the reader for considering your application, which demonstrates your proactive approach and eagerness to contribute to their team.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Clinical proficiency and expertise: To ensure high-quality patient care and accurate diagnoses.
• Compassion and strong patient communication: For building trust and delivering care with empathy.
• Teamwork and collaboration skills: Vital for working effectively with healthcare teams and multi-disciplinary units.
• Resilience and stress management: To handle the high-pressure environments typical in healthcare settings.
• Leadership abilities: Important for managing healthcare staff and leading by example in various clinical scenarios.
• Commitment to continued education: To stay abreast of the latest medical research and technologies for optimal patient outcomes.

What greeting should you use in your doctor cover letter salutation

A simple "Hello" or "Hey" just won't work.

With your doctor cover letter salutation , you set the tone of the whole communication.

You should thus address the hiring managers by using their first (or last name) in your greeting.

But how do you find out who's recruiting for the role?

The easiest way is to look up the role on LinkedIn or the corporate website.

Alternatively, you could also contact the organization via social media or email, for more information.

Unable to still obtain the recruiter's name?

Don't go down the "To whom it may concern path". Instead, start your cover letter with a "Dear HR team".

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Specific Title of the Receiver such as Director of Medical Staff Services],
• Dear Members of the [Department Name] Committee,
• Dear [Clinical Department] Search Committee,
• Dear [Hospital or Clinic Name] Recruiting Team,

The doctor cover letter intro: aligning your interest with the company culture

You only have one chance at making a memorable first impression on recruiters with your doctor cover letter.

Structure your introduction to be precise and to include no more than two sentences.

Here are some ideas on how to write a job-winning doctor cover letter introduction:

• get creative - show off your personality from the get-go (if this aligns with the company culture);
• focus on your motivation - be specific when you say what gets you excited about this opportunity.

What to write in the middle or body of your doctor cover letter

Here's where it gets tricky.

Your doctor cover letter body should present you in the best light possible and, at the same time, differ from your resume.

Don't be stuck in making up new things or copy-pasting from your resume. Instead, select just one achievement from your experience.

Use it to succinctly tell a story of the job-crucial skills and knowledge this taught you.

Your doctor cover letter is the magic card you need to further show how any organization or team would benefit from working with you.

Closing paragraph basics: choose between a promise and a call to action

You've done all the hard work - congratulations! You've almost reached the end of your doctor cover letter .

But how do you ensure recruiters, who have read your application this far, remember you?

Most doctor professionals end their cover letter with a promise - hinting at their potential and what they plan on achieving if they're hired.

Another option would be to include a call for follow-up, where you remind recruiters that you're very interested in the opportunity (and look forward to hearing from them, soon).

Choose to close your doctor cover letter in the way that best fits your personality.

Which story should you tell in your doctor cover letter when you have zero experience

Candidates, lacking professional experience in the field - this one is for you.

Your doctor cover letter is an exercise of integrity, honesty, and, above all, spinning a positive narrative around your strengths.

And what better way to capture recruiters' attention than with your most job-relevant achievement (this could be from your internship or volunteering experience)?

Make sure to back up your success with transferrable skills that are relevant to the job (e.g. how your year, studying abroad, has taught you to be more motivated and handle multicultural environments).

Another safe card you can bet on is your career dream: in the body of your doctor cover letter, go into the details of how your ambitions would help make the company you're applying for better.

Key takeaways

Within this Enhancv guide, we've provided you with plenty of advice and inspiration on writing your doctor cover letter:

• Always make sure your doctor cover letter is tailored to the role you're applying for to make a good impression on recruiters;
• In your doctor cover letter include a header (with your name, the role you're applying for, date, and contact details) and an introduction of up to two sentences that highlight your key accomplishment or why you'd fit the role;
• Focus your doctor cover letter body on one sole achievement through your career and all the valuable lessons, skills, and know-how you've learned (that are relevant to the role);
• Ensure your doctor cover letter closing statement isn't generic and includes either a call to action or a promise;
• If you lack professional experience, shift recruiters' focus to a relevant achievement (thanks to your academic or versatile experience) or toward your dreams and goals for professional growth.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

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Physician Cover Letter Example

Enhance your career prospects & get inspiration for your own cover letter with our free, downloadable Physician cover letter example. Make a copy of this cover letter sample free of charge or customize it inside our HR-approved cover letter creator.

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Physician Cover Letter Example (Full Text Version)

Dear Hiring Team,

I am writing to express my interest in the Physician position at St John Hospital in San Diego, CA, as advertised on Indeed.com. With over a decade of experience and a strong industry knowledge, I believe I am well-suited for this role and can make a valuable contribution to your team.

During my time at Jackson Health Systems, Inc., I demonstrated a patient-focused approach and the ability to handle high-pressure situations with ease. I developed personalized treatment plans, ensured top-quality care for patients, and effectively communicated with families to monitor progress. Additionally, I managed confidential documents, conducted diagnostic tests, and played a role in training new staff.

I have a proven track record of being a collaborative team player and a critical thinker. I graduated from Mason University with a 3.98 GPA, placing me in the top 2% of my class. With meticulous attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills, I am eager for the opportunity to discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of the Physician role.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of meeting with you to further discuss my candidacy.

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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• Cover Letter Examples

Doctor Cover Letter (Physician): Examples & Template

You prevent, diagnose, and treat the nastiest of the nasty diseases. Let’s diagnose your doctor cover letter and see if there isn’t a virus hiding within.

How can I help? Idiopathic lack of replies to your physician cover letters? Are you close to an adverse reaction?

You’ve been sitting down to send them out quater die sumendum , and nothing. Quieter than the morgue that time the prank during class ended badly. It’s like someone is producing an antigen for your applications.

This guide will help your doctor cover letter avoid seemingly benign mistakes which usually end up very malignant.

This guide will show you:

• A doctor cover letter sample that will do better than 9 out 10 cover letters for physicians. 
• A walkthrough on all the formatting tricks that make for a clear, readable cover letter for doctors. 
• A doctor cover letter template you can fill-in-the blanks and send off within minutes.

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 21 cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Let’s see the first patient.

Doctor Cover Letter Sample

Our letter comes from Nathan, who has sizable experience in surgical procedures and is trying to leverage it for a new, more senior position. See how he uses his statistics to give a magnitude to his experience.

Nathan J. Smith

3347 Scenicview Drive

Dallas, TX 75201

430-709-0459

[email protected]

linkedin.com/nathanjsmith

Dallas, January 11, 2021

Sophia Jones

Hiring Manager

Dallas State Hospital

18 Texas Avenue

Dear Sophia,

I am more than pleased to submit my application for the position of Assistant Surgeon at your hospital. I believe that my comprehensive education, 3 years of professional experience and a constant desire to develop make me a right person to apply for this position.

I graduated with the First Class Honours degree from the Texas Medical School, and I was in the top 5% of students during the entire period of study. I completed my surgeon residency at the Academic Hospital of Dallas, where, as the best surgical resident, I was offered a job and started my working career. There, I gained professional experience by performing 200+ surgical procedures of various types a year, from traditional to laparoscopic ones. My specialty is hand surgery and together with Professor Smith, we were able to develop a new approach to finger reattachment, reducing the percentage of digits that could not be reattached from 17% to 12%, and increased range of motion regained by 15%. During my career, I was often forced to perform five operations in a row, working 15 hours or more, so I can work under time pressure with unrelenting accuracy. I always care about order in the workplace, and I always put the good of my patients first.

As your hospital is one of the best medical facilities in the state and provides the employees with the most modern equipment and work training, I am convinced that it is a perfect place for me to develop my surgeon skills and share years of my experience with other members of the staff.

When could we meet to discuss the new finger reattachment methods?

They’re going to put the lights and the siren on rushing to get Nathan in. 

Now let’s write your own doctor cover letter that will make the hospital director’s heart skip a beat. 

How to Write a Physician Cover Letter 

1. use the 120/80 cover letter format.

When one minor detail is overlooked, the physiology of the whole cover letter can be disrupted. Misaligned margins and uneven spacing may seem benign, but more often than not details like that can decide which letter lands in the bin. Root out the pathologies at their core, and the prognosis will be good.

Follow these simple cover letter format rules :

• Use a font consistent with your CV font . 
• Use at least a 1-inch margin on every side.
• Always ‘Align Left’. 
• Use 1.15 line spacing, and leave an empty line between every section and paragraph.
• Perfect cover letter length ? 1 page.

You’re ready to leave pre-op. Let’s see what things to put in your cover letter.

2. List Your Details in the Header 

Make sure your doctor cover letter header matches the CV header . Underneath, list the city and date of the letter, and below, the details of the person hiring. 

Check against our template:

Physician Cover Letter Header 

[ Your Full Name]

[ Your Job Title ] (Optional)

[ Address ]

[ Phone Number ]

[ Email Address ]

[ City and Date ]

[ Hiring Manager’s Full Name ]

[ Hiring Manager’s Position ]

[ Company Name ]

[ Company Street Address ]

[ City and Zip Code ]

Double your impact with a matching CV and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter builder and make your application documents pop out.

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Want to try a different look? There’s 18 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

3. Identify The Position and Introduce Yourself

What would be the best thing your patient could do as they walk through the door? If they rattled off who they are, what’s up with them, and for how long it has been going on, right? That’s the function of the first paragraph of your doctor cover letter.

Address your cover letter to the hiring person by their medical title and surname. If you can’t find it in the job posting, use LinkedIn . Failing that, you can try to call them up and find out the information directly.

There probably aren’t dozens of openings they have at any one time, but still state exactly which job opening you’re applying for in the opening paragraph of your cover letter . State your most significant achievement to keep them reading until you can expand in the next paragraph.

Fill in the [blanks]:

Physician/Doctor Cover Letter Sample: Introduction

Dear [Dr. Surname]:

I would like to offer my candidature as a physician at [Target Institution Name]. I have [number of years]+ years experience at [Previous Employer Name], which is a [size of clinic / hospital / etc.]. At my previous role, I was able to [Achievement] and I believe I can translate those skills to benefit the patients and staff at [Target Institution Name].

Expert Hint: The prospects are very strong for doctors—the ageing population is no joke, and there will be 7% more, or 55,400 new physician jobs in the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics . Pack your physician CV and cover letter with action words to beat the competition.

4. Write a Convincing Second Paragraph

Here is where you make all the arguments for your application. To make sure your hiring manager does not have a cerebrovascular accident while reading—avoid empty statements and descriptions of obvious responsibilities.

Instead, try and focus on the tangible achievements, and things that will set you apart from the crowd. Show that you are not a glorified waiter/waitress. Think numbers, achievements from your CV .

Start with this:

Cover Letter for Doctor Sample: Second Paragraph

In my [X]+ years as a [Your Position Name] at [previous employer] flights, I have spent [X]+ clinical hours [in your specialisation], serving approximately [X] patients, and managing to [improvement/achievement/metric]. I have also managed to [improvement/achievement/] by [describe what you did]. In the job posting, you state you require a physician skilled in [specialisation/skill/experience]. I have [the relevant specialisation/experience/skill] in abundance due to [explain why] and my track record is proven by [achievement].

Expert Hint: Only include things like honours, achievements and relevant coursework if you don’t have much experience and expand your CV education section to make up for it. If you are really scarce on work experience, describe your clinical rotation experience.

5. Make The Final Interview

In the third paragraph of your doctor cover letter, placate the potential employer a tiny bit. Explain exactly why you’re applying to work here: whether it’s due to the specialist profiles, equipment, or approach. 

Remember to remind them what’s in it for them by explaining what you can do for them. Perhaps there’s a dire need you can fulfil, or their values are right up your alley.

Cover Letter for Doctor/Physician Sample: Third Paragraph

I am especially excited to be applying to join [Target Institution Name] as I know how much emphasis you put on [talk about their values/specialisations/etc.]. This resonates with what I personally believe is important in providing patient care. I believe I can satisfy your need for [kind of responsibilities they need] due to [your achievements in this field].

6. Ask For the Interview and Sign Off

Sometimes, you must be your own self-advocate. If someone isn’t going to hire you—they aren’t going to hire you. If they’re on the fence, you might be able to pull them your way.

Show initiative and drive by requesting an interview and signing off politely.

Cover Letter for a Doctor Sample: Sign Off & Call to Action

I’ll look forward to catching up with you about this opportunity. I am eager to tell you more about how [something you did] and managed to [achievement].

Best Regards,

[Digital Copy of Your Handwritten Signature]

[Your Full Name]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

Expert Hint: Make your email cover letter shorter than a traditional cover letter you would send as an attachment.

With ResumeLab’s CV builder you’ll write your CV in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your CV in our CV builder now .

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Nail it all with a splash of colour, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 18 CV templates and get started now .

When writing your cover letter for doctor positions, make sure to:

• Double-check all the header information, and match it to CV.
• State clearly the position you’re applying for, and show right away that you’re the right match in the first paragraph. 
• Examine the key requirements and responsibilities of the job, and show them that you are up to the task—by describing your achievements in the second paragraph. 
• Demonstrate interest in this employer in the last paragraph. 
• Ask for a meeting, or a call, and sign off. 

Do you have any more questions about writing a cover letter for doctor jobs? Did you find our physician cover letter examples helpful? Leave us a comment, we’ll get back to you.

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Approach

At ResumeLab, excellence lies at the heart of our values, underpinning our promise to provide outstanding career resources. Our team of career experts meticulously assesses each article in line with our editorial guidelines , guaranteeing our content's high quality and dependability. We consistently engage in original research, illuminating the nuances of the job market and earning acclaim from various influential news outlets. Our commitment to delivering professional career advice draws millions of readers to our blog annually.

Dave is a career expert delivering a wide range of well-researched advice regarding the job hunting and application process. At ResumeLab, his data-driven resume and cover letter guides help readers capitalize on their potential.

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• Cover Letter Builder

Doctor cover letter example

Cover letter header

Cover letter greeting, cover letter introduction, cover letter middle part (body), cover letter closing .

With medical staff shortages putting strain on the entire UK healthcare system, filling doctor vacancies remains a critical priority. But in no way can the hiring process be any less rigorous, which is why every job application should include an impressive doctor cover letter.

If this writing task sounds like an extra hassle you’d rather avoid, let Resume.io make it as easy as possible. Our online resources are geared to busy job seekers with a lot on their mind. That includes a growing collection of occupation-specific writing guides, with corresponding cover letter examples.

The guide you’re reading now is geared specifically to doctors. It’s backed by sample wording from a doctor cover letter you can adapt to your own situation. Here’s what we’ll discuss:

• The best format for structuring a doctor cover letter
• Vital signs of success in each cover letter section (header, greeting, introduction, body and conclusion)
• Common mistakes to avoid when writing your doctor cover letter.

An effective cover letter acts as a complement to your CV by adding some much-needed personality, highlighting your fit within the specific role, and setting the tone for your interview.

For more inspiration, take a look at these related cover letter examples: 

• Care assistant cover letter example
• Nurse cover letter example
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Best format for a doctor cover letter

Cover letters are like a ‘written handshake’ with a recipient who likely has some say in the hiring decision — possibly the final say. They are meant to be brief — never more than a single page — saying just enough to have an intriguing and memorable impact. 

Writing your doctor cover letter should seem easier when broken into manageable steps. This is the structure of parts it has in common with all cover letters:

• Greeting / salutation
• Introduction
• Middle part (body)
• Closing (conclusion and sign-off).

Next, we’ll take a closer look at each cover letter section, along with wording you can modify for each doctor position being sought. It comes from this adaptable doctor cover letter sample:

September 29, 2023

Dear Dr. Perks,

I am an experienced General Practitioner with seven years of experience in different types of GP practice around the country. I hope to be considered for the new Associate General Practitioner position at Swan Hill Surgery, starting in January 2024. With Swan Hill Surgery being a close-knit family practice on the edge of a university area, I believe my experience is an excellent fit for the culture of top-quality care you have built.

My first years as a qualified GP were in two distinctively different practices and communities in South London and Cambridge, respectively. In both roles, I learned various ways of earning patient trust. In the South London NHS practice, where appointments were allocated randomly, I gained the ability to quickly create a rapport with patients I might never see more than once. In Cambridge, on the other hand, I worked in a small private practice that mainly catered to the elderly. Here, building a strong relationship with assigned patients and their families over a longer period was paramount.

In addition to receiving consistently favourable patient satisfaction feedback, I’ve maintained excellent relationships with colleagues, who would be happy to provide an enthusiastic reference. My adaptability and responsiveness to wide-ranging needs are reflected in the rapport I enjoy with staff — both administrative and medical — and patients alike. According to my current employer, I’ve played an instrumental role in the outstanding report our practice received from the Care Quality Commission in January.

As I prepare to move with my family to Taunton at the end of this year, I am looking for my next challenge. I look forward to discussing the opportunity at Swan Hill Surgery with you further.

Yours Sincerely,

Dr. Cara Holden

The header of your doctor cover letter adds a nuanced personal touch to visually distinguish it  from all the others — preferably paired with a matching CV header design. As a document label, it draws the reader’s eye to where your name, medical specialty and contact information are displayed prominently. The adjacent white space offsets your cover letter text so it’s inviting to read. At arm’s length, the overall look is impeccably professional.

Goal of the cover letter header: Set your job application apart in an eye-pleasing manner that makes the identifying information stand out and the overall impact more reader-friendly.

Professional but personable is the tone you’re aiming to set for the interview you hope to have with a medical colleague, administrator or search committee. You can’t go wrong using the traditional salutation ‘Dear Dr. Surname’ (substitute ‘Mr.’ or ‘Ms.’ if appropriate). Even if you and the recipient know each other, more casual variations or first-name only greetings are generally not recommended.

Make every effort to address someone by name in your cover letter greeting, because it’s more conducive to a positive response. Non-personalised greetings can be a turn-off if they suggest you may be mass mailing a generic job application, not bothering to target any specific medical position or employer.

Compared to other occupations, it’s likely easier for doctors to identify the individual(s) responsible for hiring. But if that’s not possible, strive for the most accurate version of ‘Dear XYZ Clinic Medical Director,’ ‘Dear ABC Hospital Chief of Staff,’ or ‘Dear JKL Doctor Recruitment Team.’

Goal of the cover letter greeting: Form a direct, immediate connection with the employer that’s personalised to the extent possible. Take a look at our doctor cover letter sample.

An effective cover letter introduction will engage readers from the start with an enthusiastic hook. Originality and authenticity are the surest ways to win and sustain their attention.

Of course, your most compelling professional assets belong here, but that’s likely not enough to move any needles in your favour. From a ‘why me?’ perspective, offer some personal insights into your passions and motivations as a doctor — perhaps with a relevant anecdote or observation. This becomes your pivot to ‘why you need me on your medical team.’ Show that you understand what this employer needs and how eager you are to contribute in ways that would benefit the healthcare facility and its patients, as well as colleagues.

Goal of the cover letter introduction: Make an up-front case for being the employer’s sought-after solution, as a doctor with well-matched qualifications and personal attributes.

The greeting and introduction from our doctor cover letter sample appear below.

The body of your doctor cover letter builds on the introduction by fleshing in some background on medical credentials and education. Hit the high notes only. The same goes for your synopsis of impressive career achievements. Carefully select two or three that seem most relevant to the position you are seeking.

Avoid merely listing where you worked as a doctor and what you did. This factual account will be in your CV. Instead, offer reasons to read your CV. Tell a success story that employers can imagine being part of in the next chapter if they hire you. Again, appeal to their specific needs by describing challenges you helped overcome in previous doctor roles. Use facts and figures to quantify positive outcomes relating to patient care, staff management or resource allocation. 

Goal of the cover letter body: Suggest how this employer would benefit from your contributions as a committed, solution-focused doctor, reflecting on relevant accomplishments.

Our doctor cover letter sample illustrates what you might include in the middle part:

End your doctor cover letter on a positive note, sounding confident and hopeful but not presumptuous.

A call to action leaves the door open to a response from the employer — hopefully an interview invitation. You might simply say that you look forward to hearing back soon. Or, you could express an interest in visiting the healthcare facility and perhaps meeting informally with the hiring decision-maker.

The concluding paragraph should also briefly restate your case for being an ideal match to the doctor position, adding a note of thanks.

Then, simply sign off with ‘Sincerely’ or ‘Best regards’ above your name. 

Goal of the cover letter closing: End on an optimistic note with a call to action that implies you expect to hear back from the employer.

Below is the closing section of our doctor cover letter.

Common cover letter mistakes to avoid

With the bar set especially high for medical professionals to make no mistakes, a doctor cover letter must measure up to that standard. Proofread more than once to catch and correct typos, misspellings and grammatical slips. Don’t rely on spell-check and grammar applications alone, and don’t depend solely on your own eyes either. Enlist at least one other proofreader.

These common cover letter mistakes could also sabotage your best efforts:

• Failure to custom-tailor the greeting and content to the specific position and employer
• Overly formal, stilted language and overuse of the passive voice
• Repetition, vagueness and overused clichés
• Unpolished or messy layout, design and formatting elements

If you’re not up for fussing with the way your cover letter looks, you don’t have to. Leave the layout, design and formatting details up to us. Choose a field-tested cover letter template from Resume.io’s collection in four style categories. Then, drop in your own replacement text using our online builder tool.

Key takeaways for a doctor cover letter

• The critical shortage of UK doctors makes it no less essential to include an exceptional cover letter with your job application.
• Cover letters enable you to connect directly with prospective employers in a more personalised manner than what CVs allow.
• Your cover letter should tell a story suggesting how the hiring organisation would benefit with you on its medical team.

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