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How to Add a Handwritten, Digital Signature to Your Cover Letter

Heidi scott giusto, phd.

person holding a pen and writing a handwritten digital signature

When I work with clients, I encourage them to include a handwritten, digital signature on their cover letters, in addition to having a typed version directly below their signature. Below, I provide simple, step-by-step instructions to help you do this.

Why Should You Add a Handwritten, Digital Signature to a Cover Letter?

To put it succinctly, adding a handwritten, digital signature shows personalization. One of my clients who has hired many people stated it well: “I love a good signature.” In the AI-crazed world we live in, a handwritten, digital signature visibly shows that there is an actual human applying for the job.

In the AI-crazed world we live in, a handwritten, digital signature visibly shows that there is an actual human applying for the job.

Easy Steps to Create and Add a Handwritten, Digital Signature to a Cover Letter

First, I’ll start by telling you what NOT to do. Do not print out your cover letter, sign it, scan it, and then upload or email the scanned letter when applying to a job. The quality won’t be as good, and this could cause potential issues with the text not getting “read” properly by software such as an applicant tracking system, or ATS .

Step 1: Sign your name in black or blue ink on white paper.

Step 2: Take a photo of your signature using your smartphone. Send/email that image to yourself, and open the file on your computer. If you have an iPhone and use a Mac, you can Airdrop the picture. For iPhone users, the file will import as a .HEIC file; you can open it in Preview.

Step 3: Resave the file as a .PNG file.

Step 4: Crop the photo of your signature as necessary (remember to save it!) and then upload it to a site like Remove.bg . This site allows you to remove the background, so you do not have to be concerned that the shade of white in the image with your signature won’t match the white in the digital file of your cover letter.

Step 5: Download the file from Remove.bg (or another similar tool), and save it to your computer.

Step 6: Insert the signature file into your document, resizing it as necessary.

Six steps might initially sound like a lot, but this process should take less than five minutes (and the first step is simply writing your name!). Good luck. You’ve got this!

Note: I have no affiliation with Remove.bg. It’s just a good, easy-to-use tool!

Heidi owns and operates Career Path Writing Solutions, a communications consulting firm dedicated to helping individuals and businesses communicate when it matters most. She delights in helping job seekers navigate career change and guiding business owners to present their value proposition persuasively. Heidi earned her PhD in history from Duke University and teaches professional development for various university programs and organizations. She holds certifications in resume writing, interview preparation, and empowerment coaching, and sits on the Certification Committee of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches.

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How to Sign a Cover Letter (With Signature Examples)

Do You Need to Sign a Cover Letter?
Sign Uploaded or Printed Cover Letters
Cover Letter Signatures Examples
Signatures If You're Emailing
Signature Examples for Emails

Which Email Address to Use

How to add a digital signature, need more cover letter help.

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When writing a cover letter to include with your resume, it's important to pay attention to every detail, since you only get one chance to make that first impression. So, what exactly should you include in your signature when you're writing your cover letter to apply for a job?

It varies, depending on how you apply for the position. The format and information included in your signature will change according to whether you are mailing, uploading, or emailing your cover letter document.

Does Your Cover Letter Need a Written Signature?

When distributing your cover letter online by emailing it or uploading it onto a company’s web portal, it is not necessary to hand sign your cover letter. Employers don’t expect to see your handwritten signature on your cover letter. You could add a scanned image of your signature to your document, but it is optional and not required.

How To Sign an Uploaded or Printed Cover Letter

Uploaded Letter: If you're uploading your cover letter to a job site, your signature will simply include an appropriate closing phrase and your full name. Place a comma after your close, such as Best, or Sincerely yours, and then insert your name in the line below.

Use a formal business-style letter format that includes a heading, salutation, the body of the letter, closing phrase, and your signature. Review these guidelines for what to include in your letter .

Hard Copy Letter: When you're printing a hard copy letter, include a closing phrase, your handwritten signature, and your typed full name. Leave several spaces between the closing phrase and your typed name. That way, you'll have room for your signature when you print out the letter. Sign it using either blue or black ink.

Signature Examples for Uploaded or Printed Letters

For uploaded or hard copy printed letters, there is no need to include as much information as you would in an email message, because the heading of your cover letter includes your contact information.

Signature Example (uploaded letter)

Best regards,

Janet Dolan

Signature Format (signed letter)

Closing phrase,

Handwritten Signature

First Name Last Name

Signature Example (signed letter)

Janet Dolan (Your Signature)

What to Include in an Email Signature

If you are emailing your cover letter or inquiry letter, end with a polite sign-off followed by your full name. There is no need to sign a cover letter that's being sent electronically. Write out your full name in the same font as the rest of the letter, and don't use italics or a handwriting font.

The formatting here is very similar to that in an uploaded cover letter. However, emails do not contain a header with your phone number or other contact information.

It's a good idea to include these details in your closing paragraph or after your typed signature. That makes it easy for the employer or networking contact to get in touch with you.

You can also include links to online portfolios, if appropriate, or a link to your professional social media accounts, such as LinkedIn or Twitter.

You don't want to make this section too cluttered, so restrict yourself to the most relevant information. Here's how to set up an email signature, along with more advice on what to include in it and what to leave out.

Signature Examples for Emailed Documents

When you are sending email cover letters , it's important to include contact information so the hiring manager can easily see how to contact you. At the very least, include your name, email address, and phone number. You can also add other optional information, such as your street address, online portfolio, or social media accounts.

Email Signature Format

Your Name Email Phone

Email Signature Example

Karina Hoffman karina.hoffman@email.com 555-123-5678

Sample Email Signature With Full Address

Your Name Street City, State Zip Code Email Phone

Sample Email Signature With Social Media Handles

Your Name Email Phone LinkedIn Profile (Optional) Twitter Account (Optional)

Don't use your work email address for job searching. Use your personal email account, or set up a unique account to use just for your job hunt. Many free online email services exist, like Gmail and Yahoo Mail, which you can use to set up a new email account exclusively for your job search.

Even though you are using a personal account, choose an email address that looks professional.

Your best bet is some variation on first initial, last name (e.g., jdoe@gmail.com) or first name, last name (janedoe@gmail.com). Here's how to set up an email account just for your job search.

Adding a handwritten signature is an optional touch, though definitely not required, and it is possible to add your handwritten signature digitally. The simplest way is to use a scanner or a scanner app on your smartphone:

Simply sign a piece of printer paper and then scan the page.

After scanning, the software will give you the opportunity to crop the scanned image (that is, cut the image down to the size of your written signature) or you can crop it in Word.

Once you’ve cropped your signature image to the appropriate size, save your signature as a .gif, .jpg, or .png file to your desktop or a folder on your computer.

Open the Word document where you composed your cover letter and then insert the image of your signature into the document underneath your closing phrase.

Remember to type your name below your handwritten signature.

Get information on how to write a cover letter , including what to include in your cover letter, cover letter format, targeted cover letters, and cover letter samples and examples.

Georgetown University. Cawley Career Education Center. " Cover Letters ."

Microsoft Office. " Insert a Signature ."

How to Sign a Cover Letter: Paper vs Digital

In This Guide:

Do you need to hand sign your cover letter

What to include in your cover letter signature

How to sign a cover letter when emailing

How to sign a paper cover letter

How to sign a cover letter when it is an attached file

When it comes to your cover letter, you usually have just one chance to make a good first impression.

That’s why you would want to make it all perfect.

You might think that your signature is not important, and it wouldn’t matter what you put there, but you can not be more wrong.§

As employers receive hundreds of resumes for every open job position they have, even the smallest detail might be used against you for the purpose of pre-selection.

So, how to perfect your cover letter signature?

Well, that depends greatly on the method you choose for sending your cover letter. So we are going to explore the 3 cases:

Signing your email cover letter
Signing your hard copy cover letter
Signing your uploaded cover letter

And as we go along, we are going to give you examples for each method .

If you have some doubts about your overall cover letter performance, that would be a good time to learn how to tell a story with your cover letter and build your perfect cover letter .

But if you are ready to dive into the details of your cover letter signature, stick around.

Do you need to hand sign your cover letter?

Upload & check your resume.

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

Every cover letter needs some kind of sign-off with at least a closing phrase and your names.

But apart from that, a hand signature inserted into your cover letter is entirely up to you.

If you are emailing your cover letter, your potential employer would not be expecting a hand signature. However, if you are mailing a physical cover letter, or uploading it, hand signing your cover letter can be a nice touch.

What to include in your cover letter signature?

What you include in your cover letter signature depends on the method you use for sending it over to your potential employer.

However, every cover letter signature should include a closing phrase and your names.

From this point forward, you can include a handwritten signature, or your contact information, depending on the type of cover letter you are sending.

If you have chosen to email your cover letter, it is nice to include your contact information just after your names, but you usually don’t need a handwritten signature.

And if you decide to mail a hard copy of your cover letter, it is a charming touch to include a handwritten signature, but don’t really need the contact information, as it would only clutter the page.

How to sign a cover letter when emailing?

When emailing your cover letter to a potential employer, it is essential for you to list your contact information in the bottom of your email .

At the very least, a hiring manager should be able to find your name, email address, and phone number, but you can also include an address, LinkedIn profile , or a portfolio.

Your contact information is so essential because the hiring manager would need to be able to easily contact you.

It would be a shame if you nailed your cover letter, and build a perfect resume , and the hiring manager has no way to contact you for an interview.

If you want to really nail it, you need to make sure you are sticking to the same font throughout, and not use anything too special in your signature, as it might come across as childish.

Last but not least, send out your cover letter using a professional email address. That does not mean that you need to use your work email address, as that would be a huge mistake.

To get the best result, use a free online email service like Gmail, and set up your email in the format [email protected] .

Just to make things easier on your part, here is how your email signature should look like:

[email protected]

(555) 555-5555

And if you want to add in some additional contacts, you can do so by listing them below these like this:

Sincerely, John Doe [email protected] (555) 555-5555 https://linkedin.com/in/john-doe

How to sign a paper cover letter?

When it comes to a hard copy of your cover letter, you no longer need to list the contact information in your signature. In most cases, both your contact information and that of the employer is listed at the top of the page.

Here, just like in any other cover letter sign-off, you need to add a closing phrase and your names.

What you can add here as a nice touch is including a handwritten signature.

Typically, you would want it to be positioned between the closing phrase and your full name, so make sure you leave enough space between the two for you to sign it after you print it out.

And here is how your paper cover letter sign-off should look like:

Sincerely, (leave enough white space here) Jane Doe

So that when you print it out, you can add in your signature in the blank space.

When you have decided to attach your cover letter to your email, or upload it to a job site, you can only type in a closing phrase and your names, and that would be perfectly fine for a signature.

However, a handwritten signature might really make some good impression on the hiring manager.

If you decide to go for it, you have two options:

Print out your cover letter with a structure for a hard copy, sign it and then scan it, and you are ready to upload it
You can sign on a blank piece of paper and scan it, and then insert it into your cover letter digital file

Either way, it would make a good impression.

Just make sure you leave enough blank space for a signature if you go for it.

If you decide to go for the basic version of your cover letter signature, you just need that:

Sincerely, Jane Doe

But if you are determined to add in your handwritten signature, make sure you go for that:

Sincerely, (leave enough white space here)

So that when you print it out, you can add in your signature in the blank space. And from that point forward, you only need to scan it, and you are ready to go.

We are all done, now you know how to get the best out of your cover letter signature.

Let’s go through the most important points once again:

If you are emailing your cover letter, make sure you list your essential contact information in your email signature, so that it would be easy for the hiring manager to contact you
If you are sending out a hard copy of your cover letter, you don’t need to list your contact information in the signature, but it is a nice touch to include a handwritten signature
When you are attaching your cover letter to an email, or uploading it to a website, you can go with the basics – closing phrase and your names, but it is again a nice touch to add your scanned signature to the document

Now upgrade your cover letter signature, and perfect your application documents to get your dream job.

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Cover Letter

How to sign a cover letter: a guide to professional correspondence

How to decide whether to sign your cover letter: simple advice

How to sign an email cover letter, how to sign an attached cover letter, how to sign a physical cover letter.

Crafting an engaging cover letter is the best way to win over the hiring manager. Our expert-backed guide on cover letter writing will give you the inside scoop about how you can get it right. Once you’ve done the bulk of the work, there’s one final consideration.

How do you sign a cover letter? And, perhaps more importantly, should you even bother? Here at Resume.io, we have the information you need to succeed. Our resources include a rainbow array of career progression guides, cover letter examples, and tips to boot. In the following blog, we will be taking a look at these all-important topics:

How should you sign a cover letter and does it need a signature
How to design what type of sign-off to use
How signing a cover letter depends on the format

The right way to sign your next cover letter

First things first, let’s answer the main question: How do you sign a cover letter?

The format of your cover letter signature is simple. Start with a formal sign-off and your name. Sign-offs include “Kind regards,” “Regards,” and “Best regards.”

Which you choose will depend on the tone of your cover letter. Make sure the sign-off phrase matches the style of your letter content and conveys your personality as well.

You can either use your full name, your first initial and last name, or your title and last name. The choice is yours. Here are some examples so you can see what we mean:

Kind regards,

Jason Smith

Best regards,

J. Smith

Regards,

Mr. Smith

Whenever you are signing your cover letter, you can use the above structure. However — as we will discuss later in this blog — you may choose to include additional information.

Should you have a signature on your cover letter?

The short answer is no. One of the common misconceptions here is that you always need to have a handwritten cover letter signature. We live in a digital world and, often enough, you won’t need to send a physical cover letter to the hiring manager. So, most of the time, it’s perfectly acceptable to use your computer when you’re signing a cover letter. You can type your name out at the bottom of the document or use an electronic signature.

Of course, if you’re sending out physical cover letters, signing them by hand is a nice touch. While this won’t win you the job interview in itself, it is likely to catch the hiring manager’s attention. Recruiters are hard-wired to favor candidates who go the extra mile. Taking the time to personalize your cover letter with a signature may help you to stand out.

Struggling to decide how to sign a cover letter? This decision doesn’t have to be challenging. Here’s a quick breakdown of which sign-off types work for each cover letter format. Whenever you are in doubt here, you can refer back to this easy chart:

Sign-off type

Typed-out name

Typed name/

digital signature

Typed name/ handwritten signature

How to sign a cover letter depending on the format

Now that you have the basics down, let’s talk about the logistics of signing a cover letter. First impressions matter when you’re applying for new jobs. Hiring managers spend an average of seven seconds looking at each application. In that small window of time, you need to show them that you are the right person for the job. Chances are, you have the content of your cover letter down. Don’t lose momentum when you get to the sign-off.

How you sign your cover letter will depend on the format you use. There are three main types we will be looking at — email cover letters, attached cover letters, and physical cover letters. Let’s take a quick look at how you can sign each of them like a pro.

Email cover letters are increasingly popular. In this case, you type your cover letter body directly into your email. One of the big advantages of this type of introductory letter is that you can add hyperlinks to it. If you want to link to your portfolio or LinkedIn page, you can do so in the main part of the text. Some hiring managers prefer this type of letter.

As a general rule, you should use your typed name as your cover letter signature. Simply end the email cover letter with a quick sign-off and then type out your full name.

Of course, many people have email signatures already set up on their accounts. That could include your name, your email address, your phone number, and any other important links. Don’t make the mistake of duplicating any information that will appear automatically here.

Add some extra detail!

Want to improve your email cover letter signature? Below your sign-off and your name, you can include some additional information. For example, you may want to link to your professional portfolio, your social media channels, or even LinkedIn in this space.

Here’s a quick example of how to structure that:

Kind regards,

Jason Smith

Portfolio | LinkedIn | Twitter

If you’re emailing the hiring manager or submitting your application via an online portal, you may include a cover letter as an attachment. To do that, you can use our cover letter builder. Save it as a Word document or a PDF and simply upload the file as needed.

When it comes to how to sign a cover letter, you have two options — you can type out your name as you would with an email cover letter, or use an electronic signature. When you have completed your cover letter, adding a signature is easier than you might imagine.

For example, you may choose to use third-party software, such as DocuSign , PandaDoc , or SignRequest to get the job done. If you are using a Mac computer, you can also open the PDF in “Preview” and then click “Tools” then “Annotate” and then “Signature” to do it.

Let’s say you’re going old school and sending a physical cover letter. Now you can simply type out your cover letter signature as you would with an email cover letter. However, if you want to personalize your application letter, you can handwrite your signature. First up, write your cover letter and ensure that you have proofread it before printing it out. Make sure that you add a typed-out sign-off, such as “Kind regards” or “Best regards” at the end.

When you have done that, you can finally put your penmanship skills to good use. You will need to have a decent pen that won’t smudge when writing. Practice your signature before you sign your physical cover letter. Use some scrap paper to give it a whirl. Once you are pleased with it, go ahead and put your John Hancock at the bottom of the page.

Make your signature original!

Don’t like your signature? Don’t panic. It doesn’t have to be attractive, it simply has to be unique. In fact, the whole point is to set you apart from the crowd. Even if someone has exactly the same name as you, their signature won’t be the same as yours.

Key takeaways

When it comes to signing a cover letter, there are three main methods: typing your name, an electronic signature, and a handwritten signature.
Pick the right type for the cover letter format you are using.
Make sure you choose a sign-off such as “Kind regards” at the end.
When writing an email cover letter, you may want to include additional information.

How to write an initial message to a hiring manager (with examples)

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How to Sign a Cover Letter (With Examples)

How To Sign A Cover Letter
Salary Requirements In Cover Letter
Referral In Cover Letter
Cover Letter Body
Use Dear Sir Or Madam?
Use Mrs. Or Ms.?

Find a Job You Really Want In

With so many applicants competing for the same job, you want to make sure every element of your application leaves the right impression . Regardless of your letter’s contents, an improper closing section conveys a sense of unprofessionalism and ruins the entire application. This article will show you exactly how to sign and end your cover letter professionally — so you leave a positive impression rather than a negative one. Key Takeaways: The end of your cover letter is what will create your final impression, so it’s important to summarize what makes you a good fit for the job, convey confidence, and thank the reader . Avoid more casual phrases and avoid using exclamation points; express excitement about the job without slipping into less formal prose. To be as professional as possible, you might want to physically sign your cover letter if you’re giving someone a hard copy, or use a digital signature for an electronic submission. In This Article Skip to section How to End a Cover Letter Examples of How to End a Cover Letter Examples of How NOT to End a Cover Letter Does your Cover Letter Need a Written Signature? How to Sign an Uploaded or Printed Cover Letter Cover Letter Signature Examples How to Sign an Emailed Cover Letter Signature Examples for Emailed Documents Final Thoughts Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More How to End a Cover Letter

Your cover letter should maintain a professional and formal tone throughout. This is especially true for the closing, as it’s the section that leaves a final impression on the reader.

“Formal” doesn’t require that you’re robotic and cold. Feel free to be friendly or positive, but always avoid casual language. Don’t use “thanks” or “cheers”, and avoid acronyms.

Every effective cover letter closing accomplishes three goals:

Summarizes your strengths. Sum up the relevant skills and qualifications you’ve mentioned and explain how you can bring value to the company.

Shows confidence and initiative. A generic cover letter closing such as “I look forward to your reply” will be read as nothing more than an empty courtesy.

Stand-out and convey a more action-oriented tone, with a line such as : “I look forward to discussing with you how my skills can create value and solutions for the team.”

Thank the reader. Be sure to show appreciation and offer thanks to the reader for their time and consideration.

As always, remain professional rather than casual. Avoid phrases such as “Cheers” or “Yours.”

Examples of How to End a Cover Letter

While reading the following examples, note how they achieve the three goals:

Summarizes strengths

Conveys initiative and confidence

Thanks the reader

“I believe my six years of experience as a marketing specialist , specifically in the food industry, will be a perfect match for this role. I look forward to speaking with you on how my skills can bring value to the team. Thank you for considering my application.”

“With my extensive software engineering experience, I believe I can develop effective technical solutions for your firm. I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss with you how my qualifications can contribute to the team’s success. Thank you for your time.”

“With my eight years of experience as managing director of similar projects, I am confident I can provide insight and value towards your firm’s goals. I would love the chance to speak with you on the position and what skills I could bring. Thank you for your consideration.”

“I am fascinated by your firm’s approach to creating effective user experiences. I would be delighted to discuss with you how I could leverage my ten years of UX experience to upgrade your solutions even further. Thank you for considering my application.”

“I look forward to any chance to speak about the position and what I can bring to the firm. I believe my personal values and extensive experience in the medical research field would make me a great fit for your organization. I appreciate your time and consideration.”

Examples of How NOT to End a Cover Letter

See if you can spot the more subtle errors in the next few examples.

“I believe my eight years of experience as a commercial trucker , especially in long-haul, will be a great match for this role. I look forward to speaking with you on how my skills can bring value to the team.”

“I look forward to an opportunity to discuss with you the position. I greatly appreciate your time and consideration.”

“With my two years of experience as a sales representative , I am confident I can provide the necessary qualifications and skills. Thank you for considering my application.”

While they thanked the reader and summarized their abilities, the writer offered no call to action for the reader to follow-up with them.

Does your Cover Letter Need a Written Signature?

It’s commonly asked if it’s really required to end cover letters with a handwritten signature. The answer is it depends on your letter’s format.

Cover letters written on paper should always include a handwritten signature. Doing so is considered proper business etiquette, and forgetting to do so will be seen as unprofessional by recruiters .

Even if the particular reader of your letter doesn’t care, it’s smart to err on the side of caution.

For cover letters delivered through email, a signature isn’t required. However, there’s no harm in creating an electronic signature to add a touch of professionalism.

Keep reading to see exactly how you should sign both an emailed and printed cover letter.

The formal rules for how to write a cover letter may seem numerous and pointless, but it’s important to follow them to avoid standing out as unprofessional amongst other applicants following them.

How to Sign an Uploaded or Printed Cover Letter

Most cover letters are emailed these days. However, you might find yourself needing to upload or mail a printer cover letter and wonder how to sign it.

In these cases, a handwritten signature would be included between the sign-off and your printed full name. Keep this in mind when you’re typing it out so you remember to leave enough room.

Your signature should always be written in black ink. The sign-off should always use professional language. Use the same font as the rest of your cover letter and avoid using italics. Consider the following choices:

“Sincerely,”

“Sincerely Yours,”

“Best Regards,”

“Most Sincerely,”

Avoid casual sign-offs such as:

[Your Name]

There is never really any reason to use a sign-off other than the proper four listed above. Just as is the case for greetings such as ” Dear Hiring Manager ” or “ Dear Sir Or Madam ,” using uncommon sign-offs just isn’t worth the risk.

The cover letter should be formatted single-spaced throughout, with an additional space between sections. This includes between your closing paragraph and sign-off. If your contact details are not written in the header, include them after your name.

Cover Letter Signature Examples

Here we’ll provide you both a template and a visual example to help you sign your own printed cover letter. Note the spacing used in these examples.

Template Example:

“….thank you for considering my application.” [Sincerely, Best Regards] [Written signature in black ink] [Your full name (typed)] [Your e-mail address] [Tel:(including country/area code)]

Visual Example:

“…thank you for considering my application.” Sincerely, Alex Loizos [email protected] (555) 333 2222

How to Sign an Emailed Cover Letter

Emailed cover letters do not need a handwritten signature. However, doing so adds a touch of professionalism and won’t hurt your letter.

An emailed letter with a signature looks the exact same as a printed one, except that your signature would be created electronically. Look up how to generate an electronic signature for whatever email service you use.

If you choose to not include a signature, then the rest of the sign-off stays the same. Same single-spacing, with consistent font and no italics.

Signature Examples for Emailed Documents

Visual Example #1:

Visual Example #2:

“…thank you for your time.” Best Regards, Stacy Smith [email protected] (321) 412 2552

Final Thoughts

The importance of sending a well-written cover letter is underrated. Even with an impressive resume , hiring managers know you as nothing more than a name on a paper and a list of achievements.

Cover letters convey two things that resumes alone cannot: professionalism and initiative.

A discussion of your qualifications and achievements in your letter, followed by an offer for further discussion, is what will lead the recruiter to pick up the phone.

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

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

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How to Sign a Cover Letter

When writing a resume cover letter , you should focus on each aspect. One of these key aspects is the conclusion of your cover letter. A good ending to a cover letter includes a proper cover letter signature . How you sign off your cover letter is crucial as it will either leave the prospective employer with a positive, professional first impression .

Choosing how to sign off a cover letter the right way depends on a few factors, such as the cover letter format of your email. However, in general, it’s better to remain formal and professional . You can be positive and even friendly, but avoid casual language such as “thanks”, “cheers”, or “take care”.

If you get it wrong by making a small mistake or by using inappropriate language in your cover letter ending , you risk leaving the wrong impression on the hiring manager. As employers receive so many applications for each position , this can be enough for yours to be discounted.

The signature on your cover letter is a crucial part of your cover letter that you need to nail. Ensure you sign your cover letter the right way and leave the hiring manager with a fantastic impression. Check out the information below to ensure you know how to conclude your cover letter in the best way possible .

How to sign a cover letter when emailing

Emailing job applications, including cover letters and resumes, is the new normal. Regarding the conclusion of your cover letter, you may be asking yourself, “do I need to sign a cover letter that is submitted electronically ?”

You need to have the proper sign-off when you conclude your cover letter, even by email.

It’s essential to know how and where to sign a cover letter if you are emailing it to a hiring manager. Use a professional sign-off (such as sincerely, sincerely yours, best regards, or most sincerely) at the end of the letter, followed by your full name written underneath. Doing so makes your cover letter and job application that much more effective.

If you’re emailing a cover letter with a signature you should use a professional sign off (such as sincerely, sincerely yours, best regards or most sincerely) followed by your full name written underneath .

You don’t need to sign the letter by hand when signing a cover letter electronically . Also avoid using italics or an alternative font as this can look childish. Just write your full name in the same font as the rest of the letter .

It’s also essential to clearly include your contact details when you sign off a resume cover letter . It would be a tragedy if you nailed your cover letter , spent time tailoring your resume using a resume builder , and then the employer didn’t know how to contact you .

An easy, time-effective way of doing this is by setting up an email signature . You should include your name, telephone number, email address and a link to your LinkedIn profile (and any other useful links which may help your application).

Closing signature examples

Here are some examples of how to sign a cover letter electronically . The first example contains the very least you should include (name, email address, and phone number). The third is the ideal example of how to sign a cover letter via email .

Sincerely yours,

Mary Washington [email protected] 70997654

Best regards,

Mary Washington 17 Cherry Tree Lane, Portland, Oregon, 97035. [email protected] 70997654

Mary Washington 17 Cherry Tree Lane, Portland, Oregon, 97035. [email protected] 70997654 www.linkedin.com/marywashington www.personalwebsite.com

Examples of Bad Signatures on Cover Letters

Including this part of a cover letter is essential , and doing it well can give your chances of being hired a serious boost. However, there are things you should avoid writing in your cover letter signature. In a cover letter, you as an applicant have a chance to show off some of your personality, but that does not mean you can be too casual .

Here are some examples of words you should avoid writing when you are signing off your cover letter:

Best wishes
Take it easy
Affectionately

It is also a good idea to not use abbreviations of words, such as “thx”. Also, erase any messages that are automatically included by your cell phone. Delete messages such as “Sent from my x phone” before sending.

How to sign a paper cover letter

Though it is becoming less common , you may need to either mail a cover letter or upload one to a website. In these cases, you should leave enough space between the sign-off and your full name to include a handwritten signature . After printing your cover letter, you should sign your name using black ink .

For written cover letters , you should use a formal business cover letter format which includes your contact details and those of the employer at the top of the page, as well as a heading and salutation . As you include your contact details at the top, there is no need to include them with your signature as you would in an email.

Though the importance of signing a cover letter shouldn’t be underestimated, how to end a cover letter is only one part of your application. Read more cover letter advice for information on writing the other parts of your cover letter and also spend time researching how to write a resume . Using resume templates is an effective way of producing professional-looking results quickly.

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How to Sign a Cover Letter (With 70+ Signatures)

Introduction.

The job application process can be stressful, and one question that many job seekers find themselves asking is, "Should I sign my cover letter?" In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the history of signing documents, the pros and cons of signing a cover letter, and the psychology behind signed cover letters. Our aim is to help you make an informed decision on whether to sign your cover letter and how to do it professionally.

Signing a cover letter can demonstrate professionalism and attention to detail, making a positive impression on potential employers. Although it is not strictly required, it can set you apart from other applicants and show that you have taken the time to personalize your application.

The History of Signing Documents

Understanding the history of signing documents can provide context for the modern job application process and the relevance of signed cover letters. Historically, signatures were used for authentication and agreement, and people signed documents to confirm their identity or consent to the terms of a contract. This practice dates back to ancient civilizations, where rulers and officials would use seals or other unique marks to authenticate written records.

As technology evolved, the transition from physical signatures to electronic signatures began. Today, electronic signatures are widely accepted and legally binding in many countries. The role of signatures in the job application process has also evolved, with many job seekers now submitting electronic cover letters and resumes. However, the history of signing documents and the perceived importance of signed cover letters remain relevant, as they can demonstrate a level of formality and personal touch that hiring managers may appreciate.

The Psychology Behind Signed Cover Letters

The impact of a signed cover letter on hiring managers can be better understood by examining the psychology behind the perception of signed documents. One study published in Psychology Today found that signatures can convey a sense of trustworthiness and commitment. By signing your cover letter, you are essentially putting your name behind your words and expressing your genuine interest in the position.

A signed cover letter may also help establish a personal connection between the applicant and the hiring manager. As mentioned in Authors Cast , using a professional sign-off followed by your full name can create a sense of authenticity and sincerity. This personal touch can make your application more memorable and help you stand out from other candidates.

However, it's important to consider potential negative psychological effects of a signed cover letter. For example, if your signature is illegible or overly casual, it may give the impression that you lack professionalism or attention to detail. To maximize the positive psychological impact of a signed cover letter, ensure that your signature is clear, professional, and consistent with the tone of your application.

How to Sign a Paper Cover Letter

Properly signing a paper cover letter can demonstrate professionalism and attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure that your signature adds value to your application:

Placement : Your signature should be placed at the end of your cover letter, after your closing statement. Leave a space between your closing statement (e.g., "Sincerely" or "Best regards") and your signature to give your signature room to stand out.

Professional sign-off : Use a professional closing statement, such as "Sincerely," "Best regards," or "Yours faithfully," to set the tone for your signature. Avoid overly casual or informal sign-offs, which may give a negative impression.

Pen and ink color : According to Modern Fuel , it's best to use blue or black ink for signing documents, as these colors are considered professional and easy to read. Blue ink is often preferred, as it can help your signature stand out from the rest of the black text on your cover letter.

Size and legibility : Your signature should be large enough to be easily read, but not so large that it dominates the page. Legibility is key; if your signature is difficult to read, it may give the impression that you lack attention to detail.

Neatness : Sign your cover letter neatly and cleanly, avoiding any smudges or ink blots. This demonstrates care and professionalism, reinforcing the positive impression you want to make on potential employers.

Common Concerns and Misconceptions

Addressing common concerns and misconceptions about signing cover letters can help job seekers make informed decisions and avoid potential mistakes.

Formality : Some job seekers worry that signing a cover letter may appear too formal. While it's true that a signature can add a level of formality, it's important to consider the specific job application and industry. In more traditional or conservative industries, a signed cover letter may be expected and appreciated. In more casual settings, a typed name may suffice.

Necessity : There's a misconception that signing a cover letter is no longer necessary due to electronic submissions. While it's true that electronic submissions have become more common, signing a cover letter (even electronically) can still convey professionalism and attention to detail.

Adapting to the job application and industry : The decision to sign your cover letter should be based on the specific job application and industry. If you're unsure whether a signature is expected or appropriate, research the company culture and industry norms to make an informed decision.

Consequences of not signing : Not signing a cover letter when it's expected can make your application appear incomplete or careless. However, in many cases, a missing signature is unlikely to be a deal-breaker. It's more important to focus on creating a well-written, tailored cover letter that highlights your skills and experience.

When a signature may not be required but could be beneficial : In some cases, a signature may not be strictly required, but including one can still make a positive impression. If you're unsure whether to sign your cover letter, consider the potential benefits of demonstrating professionalism and attention to detail, and weigh these against any potential drawbacks.

Signature Examples in Cover Letters

It's important to sign your cover letter with a suitable closing that reflects your level of professionalism and aligns with the company's culture. Below are examples of professional and appropriate signatures:

Example 1: Simple and Classic

This approach is straightforward and appropriate for any professional context.

Sincerely, John Doe

Example 2: Respectful and Formal

This sign-off conveys a high degree of formality and respect, suitable for traditional industries or companies.

Yours faithfully, Jane Smith

Example 3: Courteous and Personal

This closing adds a touch of personal warmth while still maintaining a professional tone.

Best regards, Robert Johnson

Example 4: Warm and Professional

This closing is slightly less formal, but still conveys respect and professionalism, making it suitable for many modern businesses.

Kind regards, Emily Davis

Example 5: Professional and Polite

This closing demonstrates a high level of respect and formality, making it a safe choice when you are unsure of the company's expectations.

Respectfully, Samuel Johnson

Remember, it's important to match the formality of your sign-off with the company's culture and the nature of the role you are applying for. These signatures are professionally acceptable and can be adapted to most situations, making them excellent choices when signing your cover letter.

Full List Of Signatures For A Cover Letter

In a professional setting, the way you close your cover letter can leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager. It's an opportunity to exude professionalism and reflect your personal style. To help you leave a positive and memorable impression, we've compiled a list of 70 professional cover letter signatures. These range from traditional closings starting with "Best Regards" and "Sincerely," to more unique ones like "Yours in Faithful Service" and "In Earnest Hope". Remember, it's essential to match the tone and formality of your signature with the culture of the company and the role you're applying for.

Choose the signature that best aligns with your personal style and the tone set in your cover letter. Whether you opt for a traditional closing or decide to stand out with something a bit more unique, this list offers a wide range of options to suit every professional context.

Best Regards
Warm Regards
Kind Regards
With Appreciation
Yours Truly
Respectfully
Best Wishes
Yours Respectfully
With Gratitude
Sincere Regards
Many Thanks
Yours Sincerely
Thanks in Advance
Yours in Service
With Thanks
Yours With Gratitude
Sincere Thanks
Yours in Partnership
Appreciatively
Sincerely Yours
Faithfully Yours
In Gratitude
Respectfully Yours
Wishing You Well
Yours in Gratitude
With Respect
Thanking You
With Warmth
Thank You for Your Consideration
Best to You
Yours in Appreciation
Cordially Yours
In Kindness
Thank You for Your Time
With Sincerity
Warmly Yours
With Best Wishes
Warmest Regards
Looking Forward
With Anticipation
In Anticipation
Yours Eagerly
With Assurance
Yours Hopefully
Best Regards to You
Wishing You the Best
Yours Expectantly
In Respectful Anticipation
Regards to You
In Hopeful Expectation
With High Hopes
Yours in Hope
Hopeful Regards
Yours in Anticipation
With Great Expectation

Signing a cover letter can demonstrate professionalism and attention to detail, making a positive impression on potential employers, although it is not strictly required. Throughout this article, we've explored the history of signing documents, the pros and cons of signing a cover letter, the psychological impact of signed cover letters on hiring managers, and best practices for signing both paper and electronic cover letters. We've also addressed common concerns and misconceptions about cover letter signatures.

As you consider whether to sign your cover letter, remember to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks, and consider the specific job application and industry. Ultimately, the decision to sign your cover letter is up to you, but understanding the factors at play can help you make an informed choice.

We encourage you to share your experiences and ask any questions you may have in the comments below. Good luck with your job search, and may your cover letter – signed or unsigned – help you secure the position you desire!

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Cover Letters

Using a digital signature to spruce up your cover letters.

Most job applications are submitted through the Internet today, either through an online application system or by e-mailing cover letters and resumes as attachments. Sending electronic cover letters is very convenient, but it precludes the applicant’s ability to sign the letter. Unless you want to print out, sign, scan, and then e-mail every single cover letter you write, it’s easier to just send them without a signature.

One way you can make your cover letters stand out is to insert a digital image of your signature. You can create this for yourself at home by neatly signing a piece of paper, scanning it, and cropping the image down to just the size of the signature. There are also Web sites such as www.interfolio.com that will help you create a digital version of your signature. Interfolio allows users to draw their signature with a mouse, or to fax a copy of their handwritten signature. Interfolio then returns a free digital image of your signature via e-mail.

Many online application systems won’t be able to process the digital image of your signature. In those cases, none of the applicants will have any sort of signature on their cover letters. However, for situations where submitting a signed letter is possible, using a digital signature helps you stand out as a professional, technically-competent candidate. Anything that provides a competitive edge is a way to stand out from the crowd and be noticed.

Jessica Holbrook Hernandez is an expert resume writer, career and personal branding strategist, author, speaker and President/CEO of Great Resumes Fast. She creates high-impact, best-in-class, resumes and cover letters that transform job searches into interviews and ultimately job offers. For more information about professional resume writing or to read more career and job search related articles visit http://www.greatresumesfast.com or call 1.800.991.5187.

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How do i produce a digital signature on my cover letter.

With job search sites such as Monster.com and Ladders.com recommending that users attach a cover letter to their application, the use of a graphic signature on that letter might show potential employers that you truly care about the position. The instructions that follow utilize the basic components of Microsoft products MS Windows 7 and MS Office 2010, the results of which will give you a signature you can use to sign your cover letter and most other documents.

Scanning and Creating the Signature

Sign your name on a blank piece of paper.

Scan your signature. Be sure to save the scanned signature as a "jpeg" graphics file.

Open Microsoft Paint and open your scanned signature file.

Click the SELECT button.

Using the RECTANGLE function, create a rectangle around the signature. Be sure to have small margins around the signature.

Right click inside the rectangle and select "crop." This should remove all white space except for the signature.

Save the image with a file name of your choosing in a folder you will be able to easily find later.

Inserting the Signature Into Microsoft Word Documents

Open a new or existing document in Microsoft Word.

Place the cursor at the place on the page where you want to insert your signature.

Click the INSERT tab, and select PICTURE. Navigate to the folder where you saved your signature file and select the file.

Right click on the signature image and select FORMAT PICTURE. Click the LAYOUT tab, and click BEHIND TEXT and OK.

Grab the image and move it to the precise position on the page where you want your signature to appear.

Inserting a picture into a Word document will initially cause the text to wrap around the file. When you complete Section 2, Step 4, the signature will appear behind the text and allow you to move the signature image to anyplace on the page.

How to electronically sign a word document →.

How to Create a Resume in PDF →

How to Fix a Cartridge Missing Error on a Lexmark Printer →

How Do You Cut & Paste a Resume to a Job Application? →

Instructions for a GBC CombBind C100 →

How to Use Page Numbers on a Resume →

Microsoft.com: Windows Fax and Scan
Office.com: Insert a Picture

Charles Morin began writing professionally in 2011, offering expertise in small businesses, entrepreneurial financing and advising large complex organizations. Morin holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance from Temple University and a law degree from the Widener University School of Law.

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Electronically sign a document

Electronic signatures are fast and easy with docusign esignature.

Electronic signatures, like our DocuSign eSignature solution, are a legal way to digitally secure approvals on a document, contract or set of documents. Electronic signatures can replace your handwritten signature to speed up virtually any paper-driven, manual signature processes.

What is an electronic signature?

An electronic signature, like those generated by DocuSign eSignature, is a symbol, or other data in digital format, that attaches to an electronic document and is adopted by the “signer” or recipient of the signature request. Most often, e-signatures appear as an image of a physical signature. Electronic signatures are created online and applied to online documents. Instead of physically signing with a pen, you receive a request via email for your signature. All the “signing” is done online.

Why use e-signatures?

Electronically signing documents saves time, reduces the need for paper-driven processes and offers you the flexibility to sign a document from almost anywhere, on most devices. DocuSign eSignature can help you:

Accelerate workflows
Execute transactions with trust
Eliminate manual signatures

Eco-friendly DocuSign eSignature saves you an average of $36 per agreement by reducing hard costs — including paper , postage and printing.

What can you use DocuSign eSignature for?

Use the world’s #1 electronic signature solution to sign:

Sales contracts
New hire documentation
Invoice processing
Purchase orders
Expense reporting
Vendor agreements
Internal compliance
NDAs Letters of intent

Try online signing for free.

Are digital signatures and electronic signatures the same?

The terms “ digital signature ” and “electronic signature” are often used interchangeably, but they’re actually different. Digital signatures are a type of electronic signature that provides an extra level of security. Both electronic signatures, like DocuSign eSignature, and digital signatures are legally binding.

Are electronic signatures legal?

Yes. Electronic signatures are legally enforceable in most business and personal transactions in almost every country in the world. Learn more in this blog . Electronic signatures can be used to sign documents of all shapes and sizes, including:

Offer letters
Sales contracts
Permission slips
Rental/lease agreements
Liability waivers
Financial documents

How do you use DocuSign eSignature to electronically sign a document or PDF?

Sign up for the DocuSign eSignature free trial and log in.
Select New > Sign a Document then upload the electronic document or pdf.
Select Sign and then follow the steps to electronically sign your document or PDF.

How do you create and send a document or pdf for someone else to electronically sign?

Open the email with a request to digitally sign your document.
Click the link. Your document should open in an electronic signature tool such as our DocuSign eSignature application.
Agree to electronic signing. You may be asked to agree to sign. After confirming agreement and if the document was sent via DocuSign eSignature , you should see tags with instructions to Start or Sign.
Click each sign tag and follow the instructions to add your electronic signature where required to sign or initial.
Adopt a signature to save your signature information.
Confirm your signature by clicking FINISH. A message appears indicating your are finished and the sender automatically receives your signed document.

Is signing documents electronically safe?

DocuSign protects your highly confidential information by encrypting and making every document tamper-evident. Authentication options help prove that signers are who they say they are at the time of signing, helping ensure your documents have non-repudiation in a court of law. With DocuSign, the security of your documents, electronic signature authentication, and system security are top priorities. Learn more in this blog .

Now that you have a better understanding of electronic signatures, sign up for our DocuSign eSignature free trial and try e-signing documents for yourself.

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How to Sign a Cover Letter (With Signature Examples)

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