cover letter with portfolio

Example of a Cover Letter for a Career Portfolio

A career portfolio is a collection of academic awards, educational degrees, writing samples, volunteer experiences, personal references and job-relevant documents that can be presented in a job interview. These documents back up the academic achievements and experiences listed on your résumé. Add a cover letter to your portfolio in case you need it during an interview; make it generic so it doesn't reveal competing job opportunities. Have a copy available so you don't give away the original.

Addressing the Letter

If you plan to take your career portfolio with you to job interviews, don't include the employer's name and contact information on the letter. It's best to format the letter so there's not a large empty space where the employer's name and address would normally go; just address the letter "To the Human Resources Department." Creating a cover letter with a generic addressee allows you to give the letter to any hiring manager upon request.

More For You

Email format for a follow-up resume, how to write thank you letters after rejection, how to make a portfolio for resumes, example of an application letter for hotel & restaurant management, how to address not having a degree when applying for a job.

As explained on the employment website Indeed, the generic addressee should be used only when you're not applying for a specific position. When you send a cover letter and résumé to a potential employer, on the other hand, always address the letter to the hiring manager.

Advertisement

Article continues below this ad

A Memorable Introduction

The introduction is one of the most important parts of a portfolio cover letter because it clearly states the type of position you're seeking. A well-written introduction helps an employer quickly assess whether you're genuinely interested in the job. If a high school teacher or college professor recommended you apply for a job in the industry, include the person's name, title and position in the introduction. Since the letter is for your career portfolio, don't mention any references who might be considered competitors in the industry.

Stating Your Qualifications

Since you can't include specific information you researched about a particular employer in your portfolio cover letter, it's best to detail a few of your work-related qualifications. Review your résumé and create three to five sentences that concisely describe your educational background and job-relevant experiences.

If you participated in volunteer service related to the industry, briefly describe how the opportunity enhanced your interest in this line of work. You might want to summarize how your strengths complement the job requirements. Employment website Glassdoor recommends you provide a specific example of a relevant strength. For example, rather than merely calling yourself a "problem solver," tell about a problem you solved for a previous employer. Even better, outline a solution you could contribute to a prospective employer for a problem you know they're facing.

Closing Statements

Even though your portfolio cover letter doesn't directly address a particular employer, it's advantageous to express your strong interest in the industry in the conclusion. If you know you're only applying for jobs with similar job descriptions, mention your confidence and ability to meet those demands. Expressing your passion for the industry can help your cover letter come across as sincere and authentic.

Avoid clichés such as "Enclosed is my résumé" or "I might be a good fit for this job." Since you're taking the career portfolio cover letter with you to job interviews, there's no need to request an interview in the letter.

• Indeed: How to Write a Cover Letter for a Portfolio
• Glassdoor: How to Write a Cover Letter in 2021

• Terms And Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Editorial Policy

5+ Best Portfolio Cover Letter Samples

A portfolio cover letter is a great way to showcase your skills and highlight your experience. As with any other type of cover letter, it’s important to be clear and concise in describing why you are the perfect candidate for the job. In addition, a portfolio cover letter can also include information about your education and work history. If you have an online portfolio, you can provide a link to that as well. By taking the time to create a well-written portfolio cover letter, you can increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

How to Write a Portfolio Cover Letter?

A portfolio cover letter is a great way to introduce yourself and your work to potential employers. But how do you write one? Here are some tips:

First, make sure to introduce yourself and explain why you’re sending your portfolio. Cover letters are all about making a personal connection, so be friendly and professional.

Next, give a brief overview of your work history and highlight your most relevant experience. Be sure to mention any awards or recognition you’ve received, as well as any skills that are particularly relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Finally, close by thanking the employer for their time and expressing your interest in the position. Then include your contact information so they can easily get in touch with you.

Cover letters may seem daunting, but if you take it one step at a time, you’ll be able to write a great one in no time!

Related: How To Write a Cover Letter (And Get Hired in 2022!)

Student Portfolio Cover Letter Sample

I am a student at XYZ University and I am interested in obtaining an internship with your company. I have attached my resume and portfolio for your review.

My portfolio includes samples of my work in various areas, such as web design, graphic design, and video production. I believe that my skills would be a valuable asset to your team.

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

Related: Internship Cover Letter Examples:10 Samples & Templates

Portfolio Manager Cover Letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the position of Portfolio Manager at your company. Based on my research, I believe that I have the skills and qualifications that would make me a perfect fit for this role.

As a portfolio manager, I would be responsible for overseeing and managing a team of investment professionals. In this role, I would be responsible for making decisions about where to invest the company’s money, as well as monitoring and evaluating the performance of investments.

I have a proven track record of success in managing portfolios and achieving positive results. In addition, I have a deep understanding of the financial markets and an ability to make sound investment decisions. I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team.

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

Related: Sales Cover Letter: 07 Samples & Examples

Example of Cover Letter For Portfolio

It is very excited to be able to submit my portfolio for your review. I have worked very hard on it and I believe that it accurately reflects my skills and abilities.

The have included a variety of examples of my work, ranging from web design to video editing. I believe that these examples showcase my creativity and technical skills.

The confident that my portfolio will give you a good overview of my skills and I look forward to discussing it with you in person.

Thank you for your time and consideration,

Related: Generic Cover Letter: 09 Samples & Examples

Portfolio Cover Letter Template

Writing in regards to the open position for a portfolio manager. I have attached my resume and cover letter for your review.

Believe that my skills and experience make me the perfect candidate for this position. As a portfolio manager, I have a proven track record of success in managing and growing investments. I am excited to bring my skills to your team and help grow your portfolio.

Cover Letter For Portfolio Assessment

Dear Portfolio Assessment Committee,

I am writing to submit my portfolio for assessment and would greatly appreciate your feedback.

This portfolio contains a selection of my best work from the past year and I feel confident that it demonstrates my skills and abilities. I have included a range of samples that showcase my versatility as a writer, including articles, blog posts, and even a script.

I believe that this portfolio accurately represents my current skill level and I am eager to receive your feedback. Thank you in advance for taking the time to review my work.

5 Things To Include in a Portfolio Cover Letter

Cover letters might not be the most exciting part of job hunting, but they are important nonetheless. A good cover letter can make the difference between getting your foot in the door and getting passed over. Here are five key elements to include in any portfolio cover letter:

• Your name and contact information
• The name and contact information of the recipient
• A brief introduction
• A statement of interest

Each of these elements is important in its own right, but taken together they form a strong case for why you are the right person for the job. So don’t neglect the cover letter when putting together your portfolio – it could be just what you need to land that dream job.

Related: What is Cover Letter? Complete Guide To Get any Job.

I hope you find this portfolio cover letter helpful. It is important to stand out and make a good first impression when applying for jobs. The job market can be competitive, so it is essential to have a strong resume and cover letter. I am exited to hear about your experiences and how they have shaped you as an individual. Thank you for taking the time to read my post!

You may also like

Cover Letter for Ph.D. Application: 5 Template ideas

Customer Service Representative Cover Letter: 09...

Waitress Cover Letter: 07 Template Ideas

Computer Science Cover Letter: 05 Ready Template

9 Best Associate Cover Letter Samples [Free]

Creative Inspiring Cover Letters: 7+ Template

About the author.

Jessica William

Leave a comment x.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Future Student
• Current Student
• Newly Admitted Student
• Parent/Guardian
• Faculty / Staff Member
• Arts and Letters
• Fowler College of Business
• Engineering
• Graduate Studies
• Health and Human Services
• SDSU Library
• Professional Studies and Fine Arts
• Weber Honors College
• SDSU Georgia
• SDSU Global Campus
• SDSU Imperial Valley
• SDSU Mission Valley
• Career Services

Resume and Cover Letters

Preparing a resumé, cover letter or portfolio.

As you prepare your job search materials, remember that you don't want to restrict your focus to your resumé and cover letter. Make sure you have an excellent online presence, as well.

A resumé is a selective summary of your professional experiences and qualifications in the context of where you want to go next. It is not meant to be a comprehensive list of your every activity or accomplishment.

• Review the Resumé Guide (PDF) : Find instructions for resumés including an outline, checklist, and samples.
• Use action verbs to convey both achievement and enthusiasm in your resumé.
• The skills you illustrate in your resumé must match the requirements of the job. Resumés serve as a marketing tool to get you to an interview. In a resumé tailored for a particular opportunity, you select the "message" of accomplishments that will show you are qualified for that particular job.
• Because a resumé concisely summarizes your experience, education and skills as they relate to a specific career field or job, it is important that you are familiar with the industry, career field and organizations that interest you.
• You will write a more effective resumé if you do this research and are informed about potential employers. 

As you develop your resumé, answer these 3 questions:

• What do you want to communicate about yourself as a professional?
• Who is your primary audience, and what do they need to know about you?
• How will they receive the resumé (e.g., paper, electronic, plain text, modified via an online application system?), and what do you need to do to make the most of the medium?

Employers evaluate resumés quickly. Tailor your resumé to meet their needs. Here are some suggestions to help you focus your edits. They address the issues of form, function, feedback, and electronic resumés.

FORM deals with appearance

• Templates: Avoid resumé wizards and resumé software templates. They are difficult to edit and do not allow you to present information in the most effective format.
• Length: For college students and recent college graduates, use a one-page format. Font: Choose a basic, easy-to-read font such as Times New Roman, Arial or Helvetica in a 10- to 14-point size. Use black ink.
• Paper: Use 8-1/2" by 11"resumé-quality paper in a light color such as white or off-white. Buy envelopes and cover letter paper to match your resumé.
• Spacing: Margins of 0.7 to 1 inch and double spacing between headings improves readability.
• Layout: Use bullets, bold, capitalization, and underlining sparingly to call attention to the most important information. Leave some white space to create an uncluttered look.
• Community Service
• Professionalism: Eliminate all typos and misspellings by asking others to proofread your resumé. 

FUNCTION conveys an impression of you that meets the reader's needs

• Image: Decide what image you want your resumé to communicate. Does it show that you are a leader, a team player, an artist, an innovator, a salesperson, or something else?
• Content: Select 3 core qualities that define you and are of importance to the position for which you are applying. Make sure that your resumé focuses on skills and accomplishments that reflect these core qualities.
• Style: Start off sentences with action verbs to convey enthusiasm and achievement.
• Avoid: Do not list your own website if it includes personal information. Never reveal confidential personal data such as social security number, driver's license, or credit card numbers on a resumé.

FEEDBACK allows others to offer ideas for strengthening your resumé

• Sources: Consult Career Services, professors, family, friends, and professionals in your field.
• Review: When you receive feedback, decide if the changes suggested are useful.  

ELECTRONIC resumés and technology

• Email text resumés: If you copy the text of your resumé into the body of an email, use left-hand justified, plain text format. Avoid using tabs, bullets, underlining, bold, and graphics.
• Email attachment resumés: If you email your résumé as an attachment, us your name in the document title. Some employers will not accept attachments because of the danger of viruses.
• Online resumés: Follow the directions on the website where you are submitting the resumé. Directions for online submissions vary widely.
• Scanned resumés: Use key word phrases relevant to the position, employer, and career field. Use capitals, bullets and bold for emphasis. Avoid underlining, graphics and italics.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is often your earliest written contact with a potential employer, creating a critical first impression. A cover letter should complement, not duplicate, your resumé. Its purpose is to interpret the data-oriented, factual resumé — and add a personal touch.

Are cover letters necessary?

The increasing popularity of faxed, emailed, and web-based resumés have people wondering if cover letters remain a relevant tool in today's job search. Generally, a cover letter should accompany each resumé. The cover letter allows you to demonstrate your ability to write and offers the first statement of why you feel you should be hired. 

What is the best way to email a cover letter?

If an employer requests that you send your cover letter and resumé via email, you have several alternatives. You can:

• Send your cover letter and resumé as attachments (e.g., Microsoft Word documents).
• Copy your cover letter into the body of your email message and attach your resumé.
• Cut and paste your cover letter and resumé into the body of your email message (which eliminates your formatting).

A portfolio is a portable collection of material that provides graphic evidence of your accomplishments, skills, and abilities — and that documents the scope and quality of your experience and training.

• Start a master portfolio to collect all professional documentation.
• Prepare an internship portfolio according to faculty assignment.
• Develop a customized portfolio to meet a specific goal, such as a job search.

Contents of a master portfolio

• Updated resumé copies
• List of references
• Brochures or web page printouts on your employers / internships / professional affiliations / community service sites
• Complete job descriptions of positions you have held
• Transcripts / SAT scores
• Projects from class, internship work or organizational involvement
• Class papers
• Examples of skills with computer software (e.g., Excel spreadsheets)
• Publicity items such as fliers, ads, news clippings
• Letters, memos, articles
• Project planning lists
• Evaluations
• Letters of recommendation or appreciation
• Duplicate materials as examples

What customized portfolios can be used for

• Providing a competitive edge and visual impact during job interviews
• Reviewing before interviews for reminders of achievements
• Applying for graduate school
• Negotiating raises and promotions
• Marketing your business

Conducting your job search with a customized portfolio

• Determine which skills and qualifications you are seeking to demonstrate.
• Prepare a small, customized portfolio with selected items from your master portfolio.
• Focus on items that relate to the position you are seeking.
• Use a quality binder with clear plastic sheet protectors.
• Use outstanding examples, diverse materials, section tabs, and color (if appropriate).
• Show relevant samples in response to questions if interviewer indicates interest.

Student Services

• Career Counseling
• Job Search Resources
• Other Services

Get Connected

For general inquiries, visit our office, call our front desk, or email us:

5500 Campanile Drive, MC 8255 San Diego, CA 92182-8255

619-594-6851 [email protected]

Student Career Services

Follow us on social media!