cover letter describing yourself examples

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How to Show Your Personality in a Cover Letter

Write a Unique Cover Letter

Avoid clichés, try a creative first sentence, make a connection, think of unique examples.

• Show You’ll Fit the Company Culture

Tailor Your Tone to Fit the Industry

• Keep It Professional

Don’t Go Negative

More cover letter examples.

Hiring managers read dozens, if not hundreds, of applications for every job they post. If you want to get the job, you have to stand out. It’s important to show the hiring manager not only that you are qualified, but also that you are the best candidate for the position.

One way to get your application noticed is to write a unique, engaging cover letter that shows not only your qualifications but also your personality. Go beyond some of the clichéd, formulaic language found in many letters.

If you make your personality stand out in your letter, the hiring manager will more likely give your application a second look.

Of course, there is also such a thing as putting too much personality in your letter. You want to remain professional, and focus on what makes you an ideal candidate. Find the right balance between showing your personality and being professional in your cover letter, and you will be on your way to a job interview.

The best way to show who you are to the company is to avoid writing one generic cover letter for every job listing . Instead, tailor your letter to the specific job and company.

You can write a targeted cover letter in a number of ways:

• Include keywords from the job listing in your letter.
• You can also reference the company itself–for example, mention a particular success the company has had, or explain why you are interested in working for the company.
• Perhaps most importantly, send your letter to a specific person , if possible.

If you have to, do some digging to find the name of the hiring manager, and address your letter to them.

Avoid the phrase “ To whom it may concern ” unless you can't find a contact. It's important to do your best to show a hiring manager that you have taken the time to write a unique cover letter for the specific job.

One of the best ways to avoid sounding like everyone else in your cover letter is to leave out some of the most overused phrases in cover letters. For example, don’t say you are a “hard worker” or that you “go above and beyond.” Try to find unique ways to explain who you are. One way to do this is to focus on particular examples —show them who you are, rather than tell them.

So many cover letters start with the sentence, “I am applying for X position.” While this is a fine way to start, the hiring manager has likely seen this sentence hundreds of times. Try starting with a more engaging first sentence (or first sentences) that shows who you are.

You might express why you are passionate about the job or the company. For example, you could start, “I have always been a storyteller. As a child, I would write countless stories about princes and princesses. Now, I have turned my passion for storytelling into a career in marketing.” Or, “When I first researched your company for a project in a business class over five years ago, I became inspired by your mission to provide low-cost tech solutions.”

A great “hook” will keep the hiring manager reading and will show him or her a bit about why you are a good fit for the job and company.

If you know anyone at the company, or if someone at the company referred you to the job , mention this early on in your cover letter (ideally in the first couple of sentences).

This humanizes you, and makes you seem more like you are already a part of the company culture . It also shows that someone in the company already thinks you are qualified for the job.

Remember that a cover letter should not simply restate your resume. While your resume lists your qualifications, your cover letter goes deeper, providing examples of times you demonstrated particular skills and abilities necessary for the job.

One way to show your personality is to include some unique, even surprising, examples that demonstrate your skills. For example, if you are applying for a job that requires organizational skills, you might mention how you accurately manage and process dozens of monthly shipments from your Etsy account. These kinds of examples are particularly useful if you do not have much relevant work experience.

Of course, only include examples that are relevant—they need to connect back to a skill or trait necessary for the job.

Show You’ll Fit in With the Company Culture

Hiring managers want to know not only that you are qualified, but also that you will fit in with the company culture. Before writing your letter, research the organization. Check out the company’s website, and talk to anyone you know who works there. Then you can mention ways that you might fit into the culture.

For example, if you know they do a lot of after-work team sports, you might briefly mention at the end of the letter that you would love to put your pitching skills to good use.

Some job listings also give you a peek into the company culture . For example, if the listing itself is very silly or funny, feel free to add a little humor to your letter, if that feels natural.

Similarly, you can tailor your letter to fit the personality of the industry. If you are applying for a corporate job, for example, you might want to write a more traditional cover letter. You can still include some personal examples, and maybe a catchy first sentence, but you should avoid too much humor or zaniness.

If you are applying for a job in an industry that is a bit more informal—say, a tech startup company—you can get a little bit more creative. Your tone can be more lighthearted, and you can include some creative examples.

If you’re applying for a job in a visual, creative field, consider showing your personality through the form of your letter. You might include bullet points , or even a visual (such as an infographic). You can include some of these nontraditional elements in your resume too.

Keep It Professional 

No matter how much of your personality you decide to put into your cover letter, keep the letter professional. It needs to be well written and error-free. It also needs to stay focused on the main topic: why you are a terrific fit for the job.

Some people try to add personality by using phrases like “I know you hate reading cover letters, but…” or “I know I am one of many candidates, but…” Avoid any phrases that sound negative.

Also, avoid phrases that imply you know how the hiring manager feels. You don’t actually know whether he or she hates reading cover letters, and you don’t know how many candidates applied for the job. Focus on the positive, and don’t make assumptions about the hiring manager, the job, or the company.

Sample Cover Letter Showing Personality

Sara Jones 7 Chestnut Street Anytown, Anystate Zip Code 555-555-5555 email@email.com

January 5, 2019

John Wilson Editorial Director XYZ Magazine 5 Main Street, Suite 1 Anytown, Anystate Zip Code

Dear Mr. Wilson,

I’m writing this cover letter to you at 11 pm. Why? Because I just finished speaking with my former coworker, Jane Smith, who tells me that you’re hiring for the position of editorial assistant, and I wanted to apply immediately.

Jane will tell you that I’ve been eager to apply for a role at XYZ Magazine since we worked together, first at our student magazine, where I was managing editor and she was editor in chief, and then at ABCmag.com as assistants. I’ve always valued XYZ’s showcase for diverse and emerging voices, as well as its commitment to fact-checking and copyediting.

In fact, my desire to work for your magazine informed my studies at Large Public University. I took several copyediting and multimedia graphic design courses in my last year and have continued taking classes after graduation.

In addition to my background in multimedia design and copyediting – and my passion for XYZ – I have:

• Three years of experience brainstorming, pitching, and assigning stories
• Excellent research and reporting skills
• Extensive experience analyzing traffic trends with Google Analytics
• Expert-level social media management skills
• An intense love affair with the Oxford Comma (which I know you share)

I’ve also had a few bylines on XYZ over the years:

I’d love to speak with you about the role. Please feel free to contact me at 555-555-5555 or email@email.com to discuss it or to arrange an interview.

Thanks, and best regards,

Sara Jones [signature for hard copy]

Review cover letter examples for many different types of jobs and get templates you can use to write your own letters.

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Best Words To Describe Yourself (For Resumes, Cover Letters, and Interviews)

• How To Write A Resume
• Free Resume Templates
• How To Build A Resume
• Specific Resume Words
• Action Verbs On A resume
• Words To Describe Yourself
• Resume Outline
• How To Make A Resume
• How To Make A Resume On Word
• How To Write A Resume Profile

Using the right words can make a huge difference in a resume, cover letter , or interview. You only get a show time to sell yourself as a candidate, meaning that picking the right descriptors can make a huge difference. Make sure to use strong adjectives, action words, power words, and language specific to your industry when describing yourself.

Word choice in a resume and cover letter are extremely important, as they’re both short documents that need to impress a hiring manager in a hurry. If you’re writing a resume, cover letter, or going to an interview and want to know the right adjectives to use, then keep reading.

Key Takeaways

You can use action verbs, industry-specific skill words, and powerful adjectives to describe yourself in resumes, cover letters, and interviews.

Stay away from buzzwords, slang terms, and hyperbolic descriptors.

Incorporate keywords from the job description into your resume and cover letter in order to get past ATS filters and to a real person.

Power words are words that evoke an emotional reaction. They’re often used in marketing techniques, but can also be useful for resumes, cover letters, and interviews.

The best words to use to describe yourself

Tips for using power words in your resume, tips for incorporate power words into your cover letter, how to answer “how would you describe yourself” at a job interview, example answers to “how would you describe yourself”, resume-killing phrases to avoid, best words to describe yourself faqs, ask the experts.

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It’s important to use evocative words when describing your personality, skills, or accomplishments. You have to make sure you don’t go overboard, but be sure to use active voice and powerful adjectives. You want to sound proactive and results-oriented.

Emphasize using these types of words:

Strong verbs. On your resume, you want to make sure that you start your sentence with a verb, and the stronger the better.

For instance: Arranged and organized weekly team meetings.

Rather than: Responsible for arranging and holding weekly meetings.

The first once sounds much more proactive and punchier, emphasizing the active part of your duties. A well-written cover letter will prioritize stronger verbs as well, as will an interviewer . For instance, replace commonly used verbs with stronger one, such as:

Change cut costs to decreased, streamlined, economized, reduced expenses, or controlled costs

Replace led with: orchestrated, conducted, directed, or spearheaded

Created with designed, crafted, developed, formulated, or conceptualized

Boosted with increased, accelerated, drove, improved, or optimized

Improved with advanced, enhanced, increased, or strengthened

Trained with facilitated, educated, instructed, taught, guided, or coached

Industry skill words

If you want to catch a recruiter ’s attention, consider what industry you’re in. There are certain skills or keywords that show your expertise in a particular industry and are likely to be skills that hiring managers are looking for. It also shows that you’re familiar with the skills and expertise required in the job you’re applying for.

Here are a few examples:

Sales: relationship building, negotiation, persuasive communication, prospecting, closing, territory development

Management: leadership, supervisory skills, coaching, mentoring

Marketing: SEO, conversion optimization, email marketing, content marketing

Accounting: taxation compliance, automatic data processing (ADP), reconciliation, accounts payable, accounts receivable , return on assets

Project management: budget management, proposal writing, compliance, vendor management, risk mitigation

Administration: attention to detail, creating macros, confidentiality, Microsoft Office suite, scheduling

Engineering: quality control , troubleshooting, materials management, research and development, systems integration

Web development: graphic design, user experience, e-commerce, web design, front end/back end, Java, HTML/CSS

Finding these industry-related keywords is easier than you think. Just do a quick Google search for the job openings in that industry. Read the job descriptions and look for any keywords that stand out. Jot down any that describe the qualifications and skills that you have.

Or, even better, identify keywords from a specific job description. Then include these keywords in your resume. When you know what your potential employers are looking for , it’s easy to reverse engineer your resume to show you are a perfect match for their needs.

Powerful Adjectives

When you are writing your resume you want to come across as a rock star, but not sound like a commercial. You need to strike that perfect balance between strong and enticing and blatantly promotional. Choosing the right adjectives for your resume summary statement and the body of your resume will help you find that sweet spot.

Employers are looking to attract and retain top talent. Leadership shows that you have initiative and can drive results for their organization.

You don’t want to use the word leadership over and over. You want to vary it a bit. Here are some words to describe your leadership qualities. Below are a couple of examples. Leadership Adjectives:

Authoritative

Goal-Oriented

Teamwork Adjectives:

Deadline Driven

Detail Oriented

Communication Skills

Collaborative

Cross-functional

Team-player

Using power words, strong verbs, and powerful adjectives are a great way to catch a recruiter’s attention — so long as you don’t overdo it. There are ways that you can incorporate strong language into a resume more effectively, and here are tips to writing up an excellent resume.

Be concise. Short pithy sentences beat longer sentences. Simple direct sentences have more power.

Keep bullet points to one line. Try not to have bullet points wrap around. Shorten them to one line if possible.

Eliminate any widows. A widow is a single word that is wrapped around and is alone on the next line. Don’t do this:

Spearheaded initiative to go green and eliminate delivery truck gas emissions by August 2021

Include ATS friendly words. You may have the best resume in the world, but if your resume is not ATS-friendly , it may never be seen by the potential employer. ATS stands for applicant tracking system and is the robot filter that companies use to handle large amounts of resumes — you need to make it past the filter to be seen.

If you want to get your resume seen, you’ll want to include the right ATS keywords. You write resumes both for people and for the applicant tracking system. Many bigger companies scan and search through resumes pulling top applicants to the top. If your resume doesn’t make it through the ATS system, it may never be seen by a recruiter or hiring manager.

The keywords that the ATS system checks for are determined by the future employer. That’s why it’s important to closely read a job description, look for keywords, and include these keywords in your resume.

Cover letters are where you showcase both your writing skills and other interests and skills that don’t fit well into your resume. That means that it’s your employer’s first introduction to you as more than just a list of skills. Here are some ways to use power words to ensure you have an engaging cover letter.

Focus on the opening line . The first line of the cover letter is where you can hook your reader . Make sure that it’s powerful and gives them an idea of why you’re interested in the job. Don’t be afraid to be enthusiastic, so long as you maintain professionalism.

Don’t just rehash your resume. Your cover letter isn’t just your resume in paragraph form. Make sure to include skills and interests that aren’t in the cover letter. Once again, pay attention to industry skills, and the verbs and adjectives you use.

Showcase your passion. Part of a cover letter’s job is making you interesting. Don’t list any interesting thing about yourself — try to make it relevant to the job. But beyond that, draw in whatever passion or interest you have and make it applicable to the job you’re applying for.

Add a call to action. Don’t forget to add a call to action. This can be as simple as saying you look forward to hearing from them, or it can be that you are excited to discuss your qualifications in an interview. But make sure to use strong verbs and active voice.

Make sure it’s ATS friendly. Not every ATS will scan cover letters, but that does’t mean that you should overlook the importance of keywords. Make sure to put both industry specific keywords as well as ones listed on the job description. If the ATS does scan your cover letter, it’ll show you to be eminently qualified.

It’s always difficult to balance being underprepared for an interview and coming off overly scripted. That means that you need to consider what you know about the position and the company and come up with good off-the-cuff answers, which is a difficult skill to master. But here are some ways to help you answer this question.

Get to the point and stay relevant. It can be easy to go off on a tangent when this question comes up. Get straight to the point and give one or two personality traits that showcase the professional skills you feel the employer values most.

Be honest. Of course, it’s not just about telling the interviewer what you think they want to hear. You’re not doing anyone any favors by lying about your personality or work style . Answer honestly so that both you and the hiring manager can decide whether the job is a good fit for you.

Pick universally likeable traits. Words like “authoritative” or “tolerant” might be positive to some, but others might read negative traits into them. Instead, stick with personal qualities that everyone can agree are positive, like “collaborative,” “curious,” or “diligent.”

Give context. This is the most important part of your answer. It’s not enough to simply rattle off a few adjectives and call it a day. The interviewer will appreciate a story in which the descriptive words come to life.

For example, if you describe yourself as persistent, describe a professional situation in which your persistence paid off with fantastic results.

I would describe myself as a team player who always puts big-picture objectives over personal gain. When I was working on a design project with other graphic designers, we realized late in production that there a number of small, difficult-to-ingrain elements that we failed to implement. While it was a group mistake, I took up the extra work to make sure that the other designers could start work on the client’s next project. That client ended up being impressed with our attention to detail and remains a customer to this day.

Persistence is what sets me apart. When I had a dream for a social media marketing campaign, I worked tirelessly at it. For months, we saw no traction as posts went un-shared and engagement was rock bottom. While I was by no means an expert on this part of digital marketing, I made it a goal to seek out advice and study up on best practices. After six months and countless trials and errors, I was able to earn us over 15,000 subscribers and engagement had gone up by over 1000%. When I know an idea is a winner, I’ll stop at nothing to make it a reality.

My biggest asset is my creativity, and it’s a word my former supervisor used to describe me a lot. We once had a project that involved coding multiple landing pages with similar assets. When I saw that this was going to be a long-term project, I took a few hours to write a Python script that could automate a lot of the grunt work while ensuring consistency. Nobody had approached the problem that way or indicated that this was a possible solution, but my manager was impressed. She credited this creative idea as saving over $10,000 in hours of labor.

As an executive assistant , I find that organization is the trait that defines me in my professional life. When you have a boss who handles dozens of client accounts worth over $1M, you need to make sure that each and every client is receiving the attention they need, when they need it. By creating a master spreadsheet that included all important information, and condensing that master list into highly readable notes for the VP of sales, I was able to streamline client meetings and account management.

You know the feeling you get when your parents try to use phrases to be cool? Like when your mom is hanging out with you and your friends and says something is “sick”. It’s kind of icky, inappropriate, and disgusting. That’s how hiring managers feel when you use buzzwords on a resume.

Are resume buzzwords worth it ? Many of these phrases were cool in their day, but now, these cliches have seriously lost their staying power and it’s time to retire them.

Are you guilty of using any of the following outdated terms? Here are the resume buzzwords and things to avoid putting on a resume .

If you don’t want to make recruiters cringe, explain what you mean in engaging conversational language. Don’t lean on these overused terms.

How do you describe yourself in a resume?

You describe yourself in a resume by using action words, industry-specific skills, and powerful adjectives throughout it. By making the most of the words you use to describe your goals and accomplishments, you can give hiring managers a solid understanding of who you are and what you’re about.

What are three words to describe yourself for a job?

Three words to describe yourself for a job are “motivated,” “reliable,” and “strategic.” There are plenty of other words out there to describe you as well, but these are likely to please almost any employer (just make sure they actually describe you before you use them).

How can I describe myself in one word?

You can describe yourself in one word by choosing a word that can be applied to you in many situations. For example, “tenacious” and “positive” are both words that you can exemplify in a variety of settings.

What are good action words to use on a resume?

Good action words to use on a resume include words like “achieved,” “conducted,” and “assisted.” Use stronger words that evoke more specific meanings, and avoid more bland terms like “managed” or “worked on.”

University of Colorado Boulder – Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume

Harvard Business Review — How to Respond to “So, Tell Me About Yourself” In a Job Interview

Forbes — 34 Words and Phrases That Scream ‘I’m a Leader’ on Resumes

What tips would you give to optimize a resume?

Bill Gutches The Path To Inkc

In an Overview or Value Proposition, use power verbs to start each bullet or statement and be sure to quantify the amount of benefit your client / employer received as a result of your work.

Make sure the Start and Stop dates for each Employer or Contract are contiguous: that there are no gaps in the work timeline.

Create a unique resume with appropriate key phrases for each application so that the words in the resume match as closely as possible to the job description you are applying for.

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Hope Stebbins is an experienced writer and editor within the field of finance and contracts, sales, and business operations. She combines operational analysis with creativity to develop compelling written content. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Eastern University.

Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.

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Looking for Words to Describe Yourself? These 60 Examples Will Get You Inspired!

• Júlia Mlčúchova , 
• Updated June 13, 2024 7 min read

Choosing the right words to describe yourself can make all the difference in landing your dream job. 

Whether it’s on your resume, in a cover letter, or during a job interview, how you present yourself can set you apart from other candidates.

And, as everybody knows, words matter. Especially in a work environment!

But not all words are created equal! Some can make you seem more dynamic and capable, while others might come across as vague or clichéd.

So, which words are your best bet when you want to impress future employers?

Keep reading this article and learn: 

• How to pick the right words;
• 20 words to describe yourself in a job interview;
• 20 words to describe yourself in a cover letter;
• 20 more words for your resume;
• And, which words you should avoid.

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

How to choose the right words to describe yourself

Words to describe yourself in a resume, words to describe yourself in a cover letter, words to describe yourself in a job interview, words to avoid when describing yourself, key takeaways: words to describe yourself (in a resume, a job interview, or a cover letter).

Before we show you any lists or examples, we need to explore the million dollar question: “How do I know which words to use when describing myself?”.  

Instead of just spitting out random words and hoping that at least some of them hit the mark, take a more strategic and focused approach .

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to identify the right words to describe yourself and impress even the most demanding of recruiters: 

Firstly, start by re-reading the job posting you're responding to. Pay close attention to the key skills and qualities the employer is looking for. For example , if the job posting calls for “adaptability” and “competitiveness”, adjectives like “adaptable” and “competitive” might be just the words recruiters want to hear.

In case the job posting isn't particularly generous with information, don't hesitate to look for answers elsewhere. For instance, you can skim through job listings regarding the same position but issued by different companies. Or look at the current trends relevant for your profession.

Thirdly, you need to take a good look at yourself and take account of your strengths. What qualities set you apart? Do you possess any unique traits? Or, which aspects of your personality can be valuable in the workplace?

When in doubt, ask a friend — or even better, a colleague! Because a set of objective eyes can sometimes see things that would otherwise stay hidden to us. And who knows you better as a professional than your coworkers?

Finally, write down all the words that came to your mind while completing the previous steps. The goal here is to generate as many ideas as possible, so don't limit yourself. This list will serve as a foundation from which you can then select the most appropriate words.

Struggling to find the right words?

Our AI Resume Writer is ready to land a helping hand! Suggesting missing words, formatting bullet points, or correcting your mistakes. It can do it all.

As you probably know at this point, a resume is the main document that makes up your job application.

When talking about resumes, the first things that come to mind would probably be the work experience section and the skills section . And each of these is crucial in their own right! 

But we want to draw your attention to a completely different section of your resume — the topmost part, to be precise. Because that's where your resume summary would be situated. 

A resume summary is a short text (usually 2-5 sentences ) that serves at the highlight of your best qualities and achievements. Since its purpose is to persuade the hiring manager to keep reading your resume, it's the best place to sneak in those powerful adjectives. 

Here are 3 examples of what a good resume summary can look like:

#1 Resume summary example

“Highly competitive and results-driven marketing professional with over five years of experience in developing and executing innovative campaigns. Known for a conscientious approach to project management and an ability to meet tight deadlines without compromising quality. Resourceful in leveraging data-driven insights and creative solutions to inspire business growth and customer engagement.”

#2 Resume summary example

“ Thorough and accomplished architect with a decade of experience in creating innovative and sustainable designs for diverse projects. I lean on my meticulous attention to detail and a rigorous approach to every phase of architectural planning and execution.That’s what makes me independent and proactive , with a strong ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.”

#3 Resume summary example

“ Organized and efficient accountant with over ten years of experience in managing comprehensive financial operations. Competent in preparing accurate financial statements, conducting audits, and implementing cost-saving measures. Adept at utilizing advanced accounting software to enhance workflow and ensure precise financial reporting. Seeking to bring my skills to a forward-thinking accounting firm to drive success.”

And now, here's a list of 20 words to describe yourself on a resume:  

• Collaborative
• Competitive
• Resourceful
• Decisive 
• Customer-focused
• Strategic-minded
• Data-driven
• Experienced
• Conscientious
• Responsible
• Attentive 

To see how a great resume summary works in practice, check out this sample that's been submitted by a real person who managed to secure a job thanks to our sleek resume templates .

Front Desk Receptionist CV Sample

This resume sample was contributed by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

Like what you see? Your resume can look just like this! Click on the red button and adjust this sample to your liking.

Your cover letter is yet another opportunity to showcase that you're the right person for the job. 

But when it comes to the placement of descriptive phrases and adjectives, a cover letter offers you more space to work with. And that's what makes it the ideal place to demonstrate your personality as well as professional attributes.  

To make these words more impactful, we recommend putting them into a specific context . Firstly, you can mention your chosen word. And, secondly, follow it by a concrete example from your previous employment. Simple!

And of course, you can also support your achievements by including quantifiable data whenever possible. This is the surest way to turn empty phrases into poignant evidence of your expertise.

For your inspiration, here are 4 examples of words to describe yourself used in cover letters:

How to describe yourself in a cover letter examples

“My diligent work ethic ensured all financial reports were 100% accurate, contributing to a 15% reduction in audit discrepancies.”  

“My innovative thinking led to the development of a new product line that increased company revenue by 25% within the first year.”

“With my charismatic leadership style, I motivated my team to exceed our annual sales targets by 20%, fostering a positive and productive work environment.”

“My resourceful nature has allowed me to develop cost-saving initiatives that reduced departmental expenses by 15%.”

And, of course, here are 20 more words to describe yourself in a cover letter. Boom!

• Industrious
• Investigative
• Disciplined
• Imaginative
• Self-reliant
• Communicative

And how could we forget! Here's a cover letter sample to show your exactly how it's done:

Marketing and Brand Manager Cover Letter Sample

This cover letter sample was provided by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

For more cover letter samples, you can just search through our cover letter database . Who knows, maybe you'll find your inspiration there.

Imagine you're at a job interview, and one of the questions is: “ If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?”

Well, here's your 'words to describe yourself in a job interview' cheat sheet:

• Persevering
• Engaging 
• Independant
• Constructive
• Open-minded
• Cool-headed

Pro tip: Don't just list three adjectives and be done with it! Instead, you should take this opportunity in your stride and talk about professional situations when you've capitalized on these qualities. 

For example, your answer could look something like this:

#1 How to describe yourself during a job interview example

“ Hmm .. let me see. The first word could be adaptable . In my previous role as a project manager, I faced a pretty serious challenge when our company underwent a sudden software transition. And while some team members struggled with the change, I was able to quickly learn the new system. And I also helped create a training program to help my colleagues. At the end of the day, my adaptability not only ensured a smooth transition but also resulted in a 20% increase in overall team productivity within three months.

Another word that comes to mind is proactive . because I’m always looking for ways to improve our processes. Like the time I noticed that our client onboarding process was inefficient and led to delay. I took the initiative to redesign the workflow, incorporating feedback from clients and team members. And, as a result, we reduced the onboarding time by 30%. And this significantly boosted client satisfaction and retention rates.

And the last one …. Well, let’s go with thorough. Apart from all other responsibilities, I used to prepare monthly financial reports. And thanks to my accuracy, I ensured that our reports were always error-free. And this ended up being instrumental in securing a $1 million investment from a key stakeholder. So, I guess I could say that I helped maintain our company’s reputation for reliability and precision.”

Or like this: 

#2 How to describe yourself during a job interview example

“Well, the first word would be pragmatic . Simply because I always take a practical approach to problem-solving. For instance, we once faced budget cuts that threatened to derail a major campaign. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I reassessed our strategy and reallocated resources efficiently. In the end, we still achieved a 15% increase in brand engagement.

The second word would definitely be conscientious . To be honest, I pride myself on being thorough and reliable in my work. For example, when I worked as an operations coordinator, I was responsible for overseeing supply chain logistics. As time went by, I started noticing certain inefficiencies in our approach. So I tried to correct them. And it worked — we managed to reduce delivery times by 25%. 

And ,,, I think the third word could be decisive . I know, it sounds like a cliche. But as a team leader I had to learn how to make decisions on the spot. For example, the time I decided to delay a product launch because of technical issues. And it ended up being the right call. Because it prevented potential customer dissatisfaction. And after another review, we finally launched the product and received plenty of positive feedback. This led to a 20% increase in initial sales.”

Besides that, you should also probably prepare for all the other classic interview questions like:

• Why should we hire you?
• Why are you looking for a new job?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Now that we've given you plenty of examples you can use during your job hunt, we're still not finished! 

In fact, we're about to give you a friendly warning !

There isn't any magic crystal ball that could tell you exactly which words will make the employer want to hire you. But there are certain words that will guarantee you a well-deserved eye roll.

So, when you're describing your qualities, try to avoid the following : 

• Clichés. Do you know what recruiters hear when you tell them that you're a “team player” or “hard worker”? Absolutely nothing! Because of how overused they are, these words actually lost all their meaning. Instead, opt for more precise language that provides a clearer picture of your abilities.
• Vague phrases. What exactly does it mean to be a “strategist” or that you're “motivated”? Remember to always provide a specific context to expressions like these. Otherwise your self-description might come across as too generic. 
• Words that carry negative connotations. Finally, steer clear of double-edged expressions. For example, does “headstrong” mean determined or stubborn to the point of no return ? Or, when you say that you're “assertive,” are you implying you're a passive-aggressive jerk?  

To give you a less vague idea (wink wink) of which words to avoid when describing yourself at all costs, here's a short list of examples and the potential red flags they carry:

• Passionate . This expression is far too common and doesn't really provide any specific value.
• Strategic . Again, without a specific context this is just another empty can. 
• Perfectionist . Although well-meant, it can imply that you're inflexible.
• I'm a go-getter . OK Karen, calm down. 
• Guru . Tell me you're delulu without telling me you're delulu. 
• Visionary . Hi, I'm Pete and my favorite hobby is ego tripping. 
• Thought leader . The heck does this even mean? Do you have a cult? Or worse, a podcast?
• Synergistic . LOL

Knowing the right words to describe yourself can mean the difference between standing out or blending in.

Plus, the words you choose can make a lasting impression on potential employers and colleagues. Use specific, impactful words to show that you understand your strengths and can articulate them effectively. 

Some of the most effective words you can use to describe your professional qualities include: 

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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• Cover Letters

10+ Cover Letter Examples (+ Different Types & Formatting Guide)

Whether you’re looking to land your first job, changing careers, or simply exploring new job opportunities, writing a great cover letter might seem daunting at first. However, once you read this comprehensive guide and check out our superb cover letter examples, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an expert cover letter crafter.

Cover Letter Examples (By Career Situation and Seniority)

Our resume cover letter examples are just what you need if you’re going to learn how to write one for yourself. Keep in mind that all cover letters have a similar structure that you should follow:

• Contact Info –  Add your name, address, phone number, and email address.
• Greeting – Always start with a professional greeting that addresses the hiring manager by name.
• Introduction – Grab your reader’s attention with a first paragraph in which you introduce yourself and state your intention to apply for the open role.
• Body paragraphs – Write one or two paragraphs that highlight your professional experience, achievements, skills, and education.
• Closing paragraph – Insert your call to action and ask the hiring manager to invite you for an interview. Don’t forget to sign your name at the end.

With this information in mind, let’s check out some of the best cover letter examples!

Cover Letter Example 1: Returning to Work after a Job Gap/Relocation

Dear Mr. Hennessy,  My name is John Young, and I’m applying for a software engineering position at your company. I’m excited about your organization’s mission to change the world, and I’m passionate about your tech stack that includes Scala, Java, React, and Python, all languages I’ve used in the past. 

Recently, I took a year-long hiatus to aid my friend who launched a startup accelerator. During that time, I learned quite a bit about business strategy and going from zero to one hundred while working on a very limited budget. I’m confident that I can turn those skills into new products for your company. 

I’m prepared to get back into the game and restart my career as a software engineer in your beautiful city. I’m positive that I’m the perfect person to lead your middle-out engineering team. I would love to schedule a meeting and discuss this further. 

Our Take: The candidate starts by expressing his excitement about the company’s goals and then seamlessly proceeds to highlight the programming languages that he excels in. This way, he showcased that he is the right person for the job. He then explains that the job gap that appears in his resume was due to working on a personal project that has taught him some valuable new skills.

Cover Letter Example 2: Changing Careers

Dear Ms. Garcia,

Blending a formal background in marketing with proven success in retail sales and customer service roles, I am looking to transition into public relations and believe I would make a great fit for the advertised position of Public Relations Specialist at your company.

Having both used and sold your products, I am already well versed in your brand and both present and past years’ offerings. I have followed with excitement as you launched in European and Asian markets and incorporated an international feel into your product line. I would bring both passion and expertise to championing your company with the press and public.

I am already trained in creating buzz and awareness through social media channels including Twitter and Facebook. When my sales team decided to participate in Walk for a Cure three years ago, we used social media to heighten our sponsorship support and raised more than $20K for the event.

Confident my transferable skills make me a solid candidate for this opening, I respectfully submit my resume for your review and request a meeting to discuss the opportunity further. I will make myself available at your convenience and look forward to your call to arrange a time. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Our Take: This candidate leads off with a strong statement about her career change goal and her fit for the specific position at hand. She uses the rest of the letter to discuss her interest in the company and some of her key transferable skills/experience.

Cover Letter Example 3: New Graduate/Entry Level

Dear Ms. Morris:

I am writing in response to your listing in the Memphis Gazette for a nurse’s aide. Please accept my enclosed resume for consideration.

As a CPR-certified lifeguard and an LPN student at Memphis Community College, I have the formal training necessary for this position. Additionally, with two years of experience in retail sales, I have excellent customer service skills that can translate well to patient relations.

After you have reviewed my resume, I hope to meet with you to discuss how I can be beneficial to your team. I look forward to hearing from you to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.

Our Take: Nice concise approach for an entry-level candidate. She doesn’t have years of nursing experience to point to, so she highlights her training and how her non-nursing work experience has also helped to prepare her.

Cover Letter Example 4: Professional

Dear Mr. Carter,

As an Accounts Payable & Receivable Specialist , I offer a proven ability to accurately process invoices, payments, reimbursements, and tax reports. I quickly learn and adapt to software changes and updates and help team members resolve issues and problems they are having with data input and processing.

Examples of my accomplishments include:

• Handled biweekly accounts payable processing of checks and ACH payments; reconciled payments made to accounts payable software and addressed any discrepancies that arose.
• Created a spreadsheet that listed bank and routing numbers to expedite the processing of expense reports.
• Uploaded and reconciled monthly phone bills for approximately 200 branches and 4 operational centers; total billing amounts were coded for various departments and branches as required.
• Confident I will prove valuable to your company, I respectfully submit my resume for your review. I would also like to request a personal meeting to discuss your upcoming goals and how I can help you achieve them. I will make myself available at your convenience and look forward to your call. Thank you for your consideration.

Our Take: For an experienced candidate, a bit more detail is expected. This candidate customized the bullet points to specifically communicate his experience with the position responsibilities listed in the job description.

Cover Letter Example 5: Manager

Dear Ms. Nguyen,

As a Human Resources Manager with a strong customer service background, I offer expertise in employee relations, benefits administration, and generalist duties. I have made significant contributions to succession planning and workforce engagement as well as ensuring compliance with employment and labor requirements.

I am also known for my ability to help identify and implement key technology and process improvements. I am well-versed in Six Sigma methods and have led projects which produced significant and sustainable savings. Other examples of my work include:

• Creates positive employee engagement for 2,000+ personnel at Company XYZ via proactive communications, prompt issue resolution, and fair/equitable treatment.
• Led Six Sigma project related to FMLA administration and online orientation programs for Lean Belt training.
• Proved instrumental in the deployment of an E-recruitment system that serviced a Fortune 200 company; defined policies, procedures, and communication planning for the project.

Confident I will make a positive impact on your organization, I respectfully submit my résumé for your review. I would also like to request a personal meeting to discuss your goals for this position and my potential contributions. I will be available at your convenience and look forward to your call to arrange a time. Thank you for your consideration.

Our Take: This cover letter highlights the applicant’s relevant accomplishments as a leader and manager. It goes beyond stating familiarity with the required job duties and emphasizes results in key projects. Remember that you don’t want to copy and paste your whole resume into the cover letter. Think about the key selling points that you want to feature prominently. The goal is to make them excited to learn more about you.

Cover Letter Example 6: Senior-Level Executive

Dear Mr. Jones,

As a Senior-Level Finance & Operations Executive , I offer proven success in maximizing productivity and improving profit margins. My work spans companies and business units at various stages of growth, including start-up, established, and turnaround settings.

Believing profitability requires strong revenue generation and cost controls, I monitor budgets and sales performance closely to identify areas for improvement. I am known for enhancing overall performance through technology upgrades, advanced employee training, and implementation of best practices.

Examples of my work include:

• Drove successful launch of start-up company by hiring a talent team, defining product development plans, and leading go-to-market strategies to achieve $35M+ revenue and 50% margins within two years.
• Managed daily operations of a $150M subsidiary that provided a complete suite of manufacturing solutions in the US and Canada; improved profit margins on overall product line by 10%.
• Proved vital to reorganization leadership that cumulated in a 10% productivity improvement in the sales and service organization and a 20% improvement in support organizations.

As CPA and MBA, I am confident I will prove valuable to your company and respectfully submit my resume for your review. I would also like to request a personal meeting to discuss your upcoming goals and how I can help you achieve them. I will make myself available at your convenience and look forward to your call. Thank you for your consideration.

Our Take: This cover letter nicely distills years of experience into a concise overview that really “sells” achievements most relevant to the specific advertised role. Each bullet presents a compelling high-level overview of a specific position, complete with impressive data points. It’s hard to be this concise when talking about a long career! However, a concise letter is always more effective — make the most exciting information jump out of the letter and grab the recruiter’s attention.

Cover Letter Examples (By Industry)

Teacher cover letter example.

Dear Principal Townson,

With five years of experience in teaching high school and a master’s degree in Chemistry, I believe I am an ideal candidate to fill the science teaching position you have open with the retirement of Stacy Jones. My teaching experience was at John Smith High School in Smallville where I taught all levels of Chemistry and helped host the science fair each year.

I keep up with all developments in teaching and chemistry by reading literature and attending conferences hosted by the American Association of High School Science Instructors. I have also volunteered my time at the community center, tutoring all levels of students in general sciences.

I look forward to working in this community and teaching at Rosewood High School. Please review my attached resume. I will be contacting you next week to schedule an interview. Thank you for your consideration.

Our Take: We love how this cover letter emphasizes the applicant’s relevant qualifications in the first line. This puts emphasis on her ability to do the job. Later, she briefly explains how she has kept current with industry developments and shows passion for her career by mentioning her volunteer work.

Nursing Cover Letter Example

Dear Dr. Manning,

Five years ago, I worked my first shift as an emergency room nurse and have never before left the workplace more fatigued and fulfilled. Today, I am proud to declare that I am still an ER nurse. I love this work partly because I flourish in a fast-paced environment. I also take great pleasure in the opportunity to care for patients every day and be there for their loved ones. This is not easy work, but I can’t see myself doing anything else which is why I am applying for the position of Emergency Room Nursing Lead. I believe that I can be a great asset to your team and that I have a proven track record when it comes to patient care as further shown in my attached resume. 

I have reviewed the qualifications required for this position. I am confident to say that I possess all the skills and experience needed. I have a BSN in nursing and have held a nursing license in good standing for over five years. I have experience working in emergency rooms at several large hospitals, and I fully understand all of the regulations that are in place. I also have the kind of team leadership that you need to ensure that even the busiest nights in the emergency room go as smoothly as possible. 

I would love to sit down with you and discuss my qualifications along with your needs when you are free. Meanwhile, please review the rest of my application package. There you will find all the information you need. 

Our Take: The candidate starts by stating her experience and expresses how difficult a nursing job can be. However, she then turns it around by stating that the rewards are worth the effort. We like her storytelling approach and how she highlights her passion for working with patients and transitions into why her abilities qualify her for the job.

Business Analyst Cover Letter Example

Dear Ms. Sousa,

I am applying for the advertised business analyst job at your company that was posted on your website. I am a data-driven critical thinker with excellent interpersonal skills who holds teamwork in high esteem but can also function independently. I am always searching for fresh ideas and solutions that I can bring to the table to increase the company’s efficiency. 

During my time at XYZ Group, Ltd., my previous employer, I developed and implemented a new program designed to drop needless business expenses. In just one year, the costs were reduced by 15%. Apart from project management, I spearheaded the collection and analytics of business processes and data toward creating more efficient business models. Thanks to my achievements, I was ranked as one of the best employees in the company and received recognition from top stakeholders.

I would be delighted to join your team because I believe that the experience, skills, and vast knowledge that I bring to the table could improve the company’s operational performance. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to speaking to you soon. 

Our Take: Adopting a confident tone in your cover letter is a good way of showing the hiring manager that you have the necessary skills and experience to shine at the job you’re applying to. It’s also great when candidates state their accomplishments and showcase the contributions they can make to a company if hired.

Cover Letters: Basic Rules to Follow

What is a cover letter and how do you write one? It can feel like a chore but it’s actually one of the surefire ways to get an actual job interview.

There are five simple rules to follow if you want to write cover letters that make hiring managers giddy with excitement before meeting you:

1. Your cover letter should be grammatically correct and error-free

Avoid making grammar and formatting mistakes to give your cover letter a professional appearance (regardless of the job you’re applying for). If you’re not a particularly good writer, use a tool such as Grammarly to clean up your text, or kindly ask someone to read and edit your document.

Hiring managers get turned off when noticing mistakes in your cover letter. It sends them the wrong message about your professionalism and attention to detail.

2. The maximum length of your printed cover letter should be one page

If an employer asks for a physical cover letter, make sure it’s only one page long. You’ll want to add essential information highlighting your professional experience and best personality traits. The letter should also be printed on high-quality paper just like your resume.

If you send your cover letter digitally, cut and paste it into the email and attach your resume. Make sure that the letter is easy to read with minimal scrolling. Get to the point and be succinct. 

3. The letter should include examples of your qualifications

You can write a cover letter in paragraph or bulleted formats, but either way, you should include examples of your achievements and credentials. While you want to be brief, you also want to encourage the reader to review your resume for greater detail. The best way to do that is to call out two or three things you have done professionally to catch their attention and make them want to know more about you.

4. Your letter should address a specific person

Whenever possible, do some research and learn a few things about the person who will be reading your cover letter. This is a minor detail and some hiring managers won’t care, but it can distinguish you from your competition all the same. More importantly, don’t send an obviously-generic letter that has not been customized for the company/position.

5. Your letter should end with a call to action

When you close your letter, be sure to ask for a meeting. It is obvious that you want an interview when you submit a cover letter and resume, but job hunting is usually helped along with a proactive approach. Therefore, at every point in the application process, you should seek to move along to the next stage of consideration.

Don’t miss the opportunity to encourage a meeting with the hiring manager when ending your letter. Also, be sure to thank them for their time and consideration.

Do You Need a Cover Letter?

Second chances to make good first impressions in the job search are scarce. Adding a great cover letter at the beginning of your resume gives you the opportunity to “wow” the hiring manager. It also helps you influence their opinion prior to meeting you. Remember that your resume cover letter will be reviewed by a real live person who will be deciding whether or not you are worth their time to interview. It makes the difference between your resume going to the “yes” pile rather than the “file for future opening” (or the real or digital garbage can).

Even though there are times when a recruiter or hiring manager will skip right over your cover letter and focus on the resume, other screeners won’t even look at your resume if the cover letter doesn’t get their attention. Why take a chance? Write a strong cover letter and you’ll know that you’re doing everything possible to get past the gatekeepers and score an interview.

There are plenty of resources on the internet that you can learn from. A simple Google search might take you a long way when looking for a job. But once you find one you really want, you start thinking that you’re not ready to go get it.

A strong cover letter can give you confidence in your application. Send one along with your resume and you’ll know that you might have already stirred a potential employer’s curiosity.

If you’re struggling with writing your cover letter, the samples that you’ve seen so far will supplement Big Interview ’s Resume Curriculum. Everything you need to know about writing persuasive resumes and cover letters can be found there including structure formatting, writing great summary statements, and meaningful ‘Thank You’ notes.

It’s really easy to use. Just log in to your Big Interview account, select ‘My Resume’, and press the ‘Watch Lessons’ button under Resume Curriculum.

You’ll then be taken to the lessons page where you’ll have access to some great advice like how to add high-value details to your letter, how to follow a job application’s requirements, and how to turn them into advantages.

Three Situations When a Good Resume Cover Letter is Critical

1. when you need to include information that should not go into the resume.

A resume is a formal business document with strict rules that must be followed. These rules include not writing in the first person or including personal information like your desire to relocate.

However, there are times when you need to communicate this type of information in order to make the case for your fit for the position.

​​ Example: Your cover letter can be used to communicate your intention to make a transition in your career or move to another city/state. Recruiters receive thousands of unqualified resumes for every position. They will look at your resume and cover letter and immediately trash them if they don’t see a fit — assuming that you are another one of those annoying applicants who applies for every job posted. This is always a challenge for career changers and individuals looking to relocate and a good cover letter can make a big difference.

Example: Your cover letter can also explain away other aspects of your particular career situation that might not be appropriate to include on your resume. For example, if you took some time away from the workforce, but have kept your skills and knowledge up-to-date.

In some job ads, the company will ask for specific information to be included in your cover letter. This technique is used to make screening easier – if someone can’t follow simple application directions, why waste time on an interview? Pay careful attention to the information they request and be sure to address it.

One problematic area is if they ask for salary requirements to be included in your cover letter. Companies make this request to help them rule out individuals with higher salary requirements than they have budgeted for the position, but it can also lock you into a lower pay range than they might offer you otherwise.

However, ignoring the request could disqualify you as well. Ergo, I suggest you research the average salary for the position you are applying to in the state of the opening and include a range slightly above and below that number .

2. When you want to reference a network connection

There is no right way to include in your resume, “Our mutual associate John Smith referred me to this role and says he thinks I will make a great fit for the job opening.” That is a reference line reserved solely for the opening paragraph of a cover letter. There are multiple ways you can mention a network connection or mutual friend in a cover letter, but such a statement has no place in a resume whatsoever.

Note: In professional resume writing, it has become passé to include a list of references on your resume or even the line “references available upon request.” Such information takes up valuable real estate on your resume (which should be 1-2 pages max) and it is best to focus on your achievements and qualifications instead. Besides, the hiring managers know you will give them references when they request them.

Rather than waste space on your resume, prepare a reference sheet with the same header as your resume and give it to the interviewer at the end of your meeting.

This sheet should include the first and last names of your references, their titles and company names, city and state, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses if possible.

You can even be proactive and have letters of recommendation ready to hand to the hiring manager at the end of your meeting, but don’t send them prior to that initial interview.

3. When you want to emphasize why you’re interested in the company

One way to distinguish yourself as a job candidate is to research the company you are interviewing with and talk about things you like or ask questions about the work they have coming up. This demonstrates your interest in their particular organization as opposed to them being just another job ad you responded to in your desperate attempt to find employment.

You can use your cover letter to show that you’ve done your homework and see a strong fit with the organization. Within the second or closing paragraphs of your cover letter, you can mention being interested in the specific work the company does, recent grants they have been awarded, a product they recently released, etc.

Again, this is not appropriate for inclusion on your resume, but adding it to your cover letter can help you stand out from the stack of applications the hiring manager is sorting through on the day your resume passes by him/her.

Cover Letter Format Examples

When choosing a cover letter format, consider what stage your job search is in and how you want hiring managers to perceive you. Cover letters are used for many different reasons and the proper format for each one varies.

The three main types of cover letters are the application cover letter, the prospecting cover letter, and the networking cover letter. You may also send cover letter emails which are an effective and increasingly common way to introduce your resume.

Let’s take an in-depth look at each type of cover letter and see exactly what sets them apart.

Application Cover Letter

This is the most common cover letter used alongside a resume during a job application. It’s geared toward a specific job, and it is designed to highlight the skills and specifications listed in the job posting.

The application cover letter is a vital instrument that gives you the ability to sell yourself as a job candidate. It rounds off your resume and expands on relevant parts of your work history and qualifications.

Application Cover Letter Example

Dear Ms. Osbourne,

I am writing this letter to express my interest in the graphic designer opening as advertised on your website. 

If hired, I believe I can begin making valuable contributions to the design team of your company from day one. I possess a wide range of abilities that combine fresh art and design principles. Furthermore, my knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, HTML, and CSS will allow me to play a pivotal role in the implementation of your design initiatives. 

During my previous job, I led a team of six designers to develop and implement the graphic, layout, and production of communication materials while helping clients cut their costs by an average of 17%. I also oversaw the efficient use of production budgets running from $3,000 – $20,000 and developed a myriad of marketing programs including advertisements, presentations, infographics, newsletters, brochures, and logos that have improved client transactions by an average of 35%.

I look forward to discussing face to face how my skills and strengths can best serve your company. In the meantime, please review the enclosed resume and portfolio. Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Our Take: In the first paragraph , the candidate is quick to mention all the tools they employ to bring value to the company. They use the second paragraph as a canvas on which to paint all of their accomplishments and relevant experiences.

Prospecting Cover Letter

Prospecting cover letters are also known as letters of inquiry or cold call letters. They are useful if you’re looking to apply to a company that isn’t actively hiring or isn’t widely advertising. A prospecting cover letter shows your interest in learning about available positions while at the same time demonstrating eagerness and initiative.

If the company decides to expand its talent pool, sending a prospecting cover letter could put you at the top of the list of desirable candidates.

Prospecting Cover Letter Example

Dear Mr. Patel,

Your company recently came to my attention while reading a very interesting LinkedIn article about how you’re becoming innovators in the industry. I’d very much like to embark on this journey with you. I haven’t seen any open positions on your website, but I’d like to be considered for open positions in the future. I’m interested in pursuing a career in software engineering. The hybrid work model that your company employs couples well with my extensive remote experience. 

I have a bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, and in the following months, I will obtain a certification from the Institute of Certification of Computing Professionals. In addition to my two years as a freelance software engineer, I also have four years of software engineering experience at a publicly traded corporation. 

Please review the resume I’ve attached which contains additional information on my skills and experience relevant to your company. I’d love to discuss any openings you may have coming in the near future. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter.  

Our Take: This candidate took the bull by the horns and went straight to knocking on the company’s door. Even if there is no open position, their chances will grow when a job becomes available.

Networking Cover Letter

Networking is a highly effective method of finding a job. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70% of all jobs are found through networking. It can help you discover job opportunities that might not be advertised yet or it can provide you with a job opportunity that was previously non-existent.

Sending a networking cover letter during your job search is a good idea if you need help from a contact in your industry or career field to introduce you to a potential employer.

Networking Cover Letter Example

I hope this letter finds you well. I’m reaching out about possibly meeting to get some information from you as a top professional in our field. 

As you might remember from our time as co-workers at our previous company, I have always thrived when working in client-facing positions. I’m looking for a new career opportunity in that direction and I wanted to ask for your advice. 

As I’m aware of your experience and your vast area of expertise in working with job seekers on a more personal level, I feel confident that you are the right person to discuss this matter with. 

I know that it’s a busy period for you right now, but I’d appreciate it if you’d let me buy you a drink and pick your brain. I’d also value your thoughts on the matter via reply if we can’t meet. 

Our Take: This candidate knows that a networking cover letter has a casual tone. He uses an informal greeting but still sounds professional throughout. He makes sure to emphasize his former co-worker’s skills and success before asking for a casual meeting and some friendly advice.

Email Cover Letter

This simple, short, and professional cover letter is sent over email when a formal cover letter is not requested in a job posting. It does not follow a specific format but usually includes a greeting and a simple body of text explaining your experience and interest in the company. You should also include a closing with references to any attachments such as your resume, portfolio, samples, or any other necessary documents.

An email cover letter should be a maximum of two paragraphs long and the writing style should be casual but still professional. Remember to create a subject line that includes the position you’re applying for.

Email Cover Letter Example

Subject line: Following Up on Your Content Writer Job Posting on LinkedIn

Dear Mr. McClane, 

This letter is being submitted as an introduction. I am applying for the position of Content Writer with your company. I believe my verbal skills and writing style would be of great value to your team and I can guarantee that if hired I would offer original content with a quick turnaround time. 

I’ve been writing content for over six years and have contributed to several notable blogs in the IT, Finance, and Cryptocurrency industries which I’ve mentioned in my resume. I would like to continue my passionate journey toward advancing my writing career within your company. I am adept at writing SEO (search engine optimization) articles that convert efficiently which would suit your article marketing business model well. I also write highly engaging copy for social media campaigns as seen in my portfolio. 

I read in your job posting that you’d like a candidate who possesses in-depth knowledge of working with keyword research tools. I’m happy to say that I’ve been using Semrush successfully for the last four years. 

Please review my attached resume and portfolio. I’m looking forward to meeting you and discussing my writing skills and history in more detail. 

Our Take: The candidate keeps it short and sweet. They shed light on their relevant skills and then guide the hiring manager towards the resume and portfolio.

Cover Letter Examples – Bottom Line

Adding a cover letter to your resume is the best way to connect with a potential employer from the get-go. Hiring managers get a glimpse of your accomplishments and experience as soon as they open your email or letter.

By analyzing good resume cover letter examples, and understanding their purpose, it will become simpler for you to write one yourself.

Make sure to stick to the structure and include only the best things about your career. Also, remember that your cover letter should only include valuable information that does not repeat itself in your resume.

Stay fresh, always.

___________________________

Need a hand? There are 2 ways we can help you:

1. Learn how to turn more job interviews into job offers here . (Rated with 4.9/5 by 1,000,000 users) 2. Learn how to successfully negotiate a better salary. (Take a sneak peek of one lesson for free here )

Pamela Skillings

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The Right (and Wrong) Ways to Show Personality in Your Cover Letter

7 min read · Updated on December 17, 2021

The ubiquitous “Just be yourself” isn't foolproof advice when it comes to cover letters. Here's how to add personality while keeping it professional.

For candidates in search of their next opportunity, the realities of the job-application process can be sobering.  According to Glassdoor , a corporate job opening attracts an average of 250 resumes. Of those, four to six candidates are typically interviewed, and only one gets the job.

What does this mean for you? First off, it requires you to submit your resume to multiple companies in quick succession. However, the standard resume format has its limitations when it comes to helping a candidate stand out. The cover letter is your opportunity to incorporate personality into your application — but it's critical to do this in a balanced and professional manner.

On one hand, if you aren't writing a cover letter that connects with the reader and showcases you as a unique person, you may as well not bother with a cover letter at all. On the other hand, a cover letter that's too informal or unprofessional will likely elicit a cringe from the hiring manager. How can you avoid common cover-letter mistakes, improve your odds of connecting with the decision-maker, and help your application rise to the top? Let's take a look.

Begin with an honest self-assessment   

Is there enough personality in your cover letter already? Maybe, or maybe not. A “black-marker test” will help you to elevate your cover letter and answer that question.

Here's how it works: Print your cover letter, then take a black marker and black out your name everywhere in the document. Reading it now, could you mistake it for someone else's? Could another professional replace your name with his or hers and use the rest of the cover letter without additional changes?

If your cover letter has failed the “black-marker test,” know that you are not alone. Most cover letters look and read almost identically because many candidates want to play it safe by using boilerplate language. Use this to your advantage! Make sure that your cover letter represents you and only you.

Understand the company culture

The goal of creating a personalized cover letter is to demonstrate a great fit between you and the company you are interested in. You want the hiring manager to get a sense that you will get along well with others who already work there. Therefore,  you must do your research to strike the right chord in your cover letter.

The company's website is a great place to get a sense of its culture. Does the company break the mold by introducing executives with personal anecdotes and cartoon drawings? If so, you have a bit more creative license when it comes to showcasing your quirky side. If you find a traditional corporate environment with black-and-white headshots and formal professional histories, your incorporation of personality should be carefully weighed and balanced.

Blog articles from the company, whether on the main website or on LinkedIn, can provide additional color and help your decision. Finally,  Glassdoor reviews can be useful as long as you approach them with healthy skepticism and look for patterns across a variety of individual experiences.

As you do your research and reflect on your application package, pay attention to any mismatches or resistance you may sense. For example, if you are having a hard time reigning in your tone to suit a hierarchical and formal organization, this company may not be the best fit for you in the long run.

Related:   How to Find a Job You Love by Assessing Company Culture

Don't just duplicate your resume — tell a story!

Once you understand the voice and style you are trying to echo, it's time to begin writing the cover letter. While following your resume is an easy way to structure the pairing cover letter, the result can come across as impersonal and boring. Instead of reiterating the professional experiences listed on your resume, use the cover letter to reflect on them by connecting to who you are.

Here are some brainstorming questions to spark new thinking:

What defining feature of your personality makes you a great fit for this position?

What quote might illustrate your interest in this company, your professional journey, or your personality?

What about this position draws you to apply?

What experience isn't on your resume but would be an appropriate connection point on the cover letter?

Here are some examples:

“I am the kind of a person who will insist on testing new teleconferencing software from multiple different internet browsers to make sure that the flow of the client conversation isn't interrupted by technical issues. My focus on identifying risks, then addressing them proactively and systematically, makes me the project manager you are looking for.”

“When I was eight years old, I asked my parents for starter capital to fund my very first business venture: breeding rabbits. With my father's help, I built cages and installed heaters to keep the bunnies warm during the winter. I volunteered to sweep the aisles at a local mom-and-pop grocery store in exchange for taking home discarded vegetables. Months of my hard work paid off at Easter. My hand-drawn advertisement posters brought in scores of local families who lined up to buy the bunnies for their kids. That spring, I made $50 and discovered my passion for entrepreneurship. I will bring the same enthusiasm, creativity, and tenacity to the position of Sales Manager at your company.”

“I remember looking out of the window of the Red Line train as it surfaced above ground to cross Charles River on my way to classes at Suffolk University. Every day, no matter how early or late, I would find the Hancock Tower above the Boston skyline and think to myself “Someday, I will work for Ernst & Young in that very building.” As I prepare to graduate this spring, my dream can come true with this internship position.”

Personalize for success (with caution)

From an honest self-assessment to brainstorming, understanding the company culture, and crafting a story, you are well on your way to writing a cover letter that will help you stand out in a pile of same-old applications.

As you write your personal take on why you are a great candidate for the position, be careful to use the right amount of personality. Stay away from stories that are deeply personal to the point of being embarrassing. Anecdotes that are funny for the sake of cracking a joke, or not relevant to the job at hand, won't help you make your case. Personality should never come at the expense of professionalism!

As always, don't neglect to spell check and proofread every cover letter. Reading it aloud can help you spot the sections that don't flow smoothly. Check your tone — it should be conversational, yet respectful. Use your cover letter as an opportunity to showcase the research you've done by mentioning client names that get you excited, recent accomplishments and pride points for the company, or anything else that will reinforce the personal connection between you and the position you want. Combine these tips with the right dose of personality and you'll be sure to show a hiring manager that you belong.

Click on the following link for more cover-letter advice .

Your resume should pair well with your cover letter. How does yours stack up? Submit it for a free resume critique and we'll tell you.

Recommended Reading:

Elevate Your Cover Letter With 3 Simple Tests

Ask Amanda: How Do I Write a Cover Letter?

9 Cliches to Cut From Your Cover Letter Right Now

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How to Create a Resume With No Education

From Bland to Beautiful: How We Made This Professional's Resume Shine

See how your resume stacks up.

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Describing Words for Cover Letter: Examples & Tips

When it comes to crafting the perfect cover letter, choosing the right words is crucial. After all, your cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression and stand out from the competition. That’s why it’s important to use adjectives that accurately describe your skills, experiences, and qualifications. In this article, I’ll be sharing a comprehensive list of adjectives that you can use to enhance your cover letter and make it more impactful. Whether you’re applying for a job in finance, marketing, or any other industry, these adjectives will help you showcase your strengths and make a lasting impression on potential employers.

Table of Contents

How to Describe cover letter? – Different Scenarios

When it comes to describing a cover letter, it’s important to tailor your language to fit different scenarios. Whether you’re applying for a job, seeking an internship, or contacting potential clients, here are some tips on how to effectively describe your cover letter:

Remember to use specific examples and provide evidence of your skills and accomplishments. Tailoring your language to different scenarios will make your cover letter more impactful and increase your chances of success.

Describing Words for cover letter in English

When crafting a cover letter, choosing the right words to describe yourself and your qualifications is crucial. It’s important to use adjectives that not only highlight your skills and qualities but also align with the specific requirements of the job or opportunity you’re applying for. Here are some powerful adjectives that can make your cover letter stand out:

Adjectives for cover letter

When it comes to crafting a cover letter, choosing the right words is essential. Using adjectives can help you effectively describe yourself and make a strong impression on potential employers. In this section, I will provide you with a list of positive and negative adjectives to use in your cover letter, along with example sentences to help you understand how to incorporate them into your writing.

Positive Adjectives for Cover Letter with 12 Example Sentences

Synonyms and antonyms with example sentences, synonyms for cover letter.

When writing a cover letter, it’s important to use a variety of words to effectively convey your skills and attributes. Here are some synonyms that you can use in your cover letter to make it more impactful:

Antonyms for cover letter

To create a well-rounded cover letter, it’s also important to include a mix of positive and negative adjectives. Here are some antonyms that you can use to showcase your self-awareness and ability to reflect on areas of improvement:

Remember, using a mix of synonyms and antonyms in your cover letter will help you showcase your varied skills, self-awareness, and ability to reflect on personal growth. Incorporate these words thoughtfully and always back them up with examples to strengthen your overall message. Keep honing your cover letter and you’ll increase your chances of landing the desired opportunity.

Crafting a cover letter that stands out from the competition is crucial when applying for a job. Throughout this article, I have emphasized the importance of choosing the right words to describe yourself and your qualifications. By utilizing a range of adjectives, both positive and negative, you can effectively showcase your skills, attributes, and personal growth.

However, the work doesn’t stop there. It’s essential to continuously refine and hone your cover letter to increase your chances of landing the desired opportunity. By using the adjectives and examples provided in this article, you can create a compelling cover letter that captures the attention of potential employers.

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The Best Words to Describe Yourself on a Resume

In This Guide:

Use power adjectives and action verbs, words to describe yourself, words not to describe yourself with, tips and tricks.

Quick Answer: To describe yourself in the best way possible, use powerful adjectives and action verbs, but provide proof to avoid coming across as self-praising. For leadership positions, highlight traits such as rationality, charisma, and decisiveness. For teamwork, emphasize observance, organization, and personability. Avoid words like amazing, awesome, humble, and visionary. Use concise sentences and keywords from the job listing, and take your time to perfect your description. Remember, your resume is an extension of you.

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One of the most tricky parts of the job-seeking process is using the right words to describe yourself. You would want to show your positive traits, but you need to be careful with borderline self-praising.

You need to make your words show who you are in the best possible light. Just like resume action verbs , the words you use to describe yourself are extremely influential, and it is important to make them strong enough to be remembered.

But how to do so? There are over one million words in the English language. It might seem near impossible to pick the right words to describe yourself.

Lucky for you, we got you covered. In this article, we are going to examine topics like:

• How to choose the best words to describe yourself
• Different words you can use for different effect

And, of course, we are going to wrap things up with some great tips and tricks . If you first want to make your resume stand out , check out our Resume Builder . But if you really want to work on the words you describe yourself with, stick around.

One of the most essential things you need to do when describing yourself is use powerful adjectives. But don’t overdo it. Don’t forget that the hiring manager doesn’t really know you that well.

If you praise yourself too much, you might blow your chances of getting the job. But the more important thing you need to remember here is to provide proof.

Whatever powerful adjective you use for yourself, you need to show some proof that it is in fact real. Anyone can say that they are detail-oriented, but without proof, that means nothing to the hiring manager.

Even more importantly, you would want to use action verbs . The main idea is to sprinkle a few powerful adjectives to help you out, but let action verbs do the heavy lifting.

As we mentioned, there is a great variety of words you can describe yourself with. Luckily, the list drastically shrinks when we want words that would match a specific skill or ability needed for a job position

So the first thing you need to think about is what are the words you would want your potential employer to remember you by. It may sound hard and scary, but that’s why we have a few examples for you to get you started.

Words to describe yourself for leadership

If you are applying for any kind of leadership role, you should be really careful with the words you use to describe yourself.

The hiring manager would be on the lookout for some specific ones. Let’s go through the most important ones and get you ready to nail them.

That’s a trait possessed largely by extroverts. Using it to describe yourself shows the hiring manager not only that you are extroverted, but also that you are outgoing, cheerful and joyful.

That would be of great importance in order to create a sustainable team that would achieve all the company’s goals. But don’t forget to provide some proof, as it would be extremely easy for the hiring manager to catch you with a lie with this one.

Describing yourself with this adjective shows the hiring manager that you are driven by logic and reasoning.

That would be really important when you are in a place to make an important decision. A rational thinker would depend on their logic, rather than emotions, when it comes to tough situations

self-motivated

Describing yourself as self-motivated shows the hiring manager that you are self-driven. That means that you require no external pressure or monitoring to see out a project. That would be really significant for a leadership role, as you would be more independent than most employees.

This trait is extremely important, no matter the position. Being ethical shows that you have a high professional moral standing. It would be fair for the hiring manager to assume that you are honest and have the ability to know what’s right and wrong professionally.

Charismatic

In order to be charismatic, you are quite definitely emotionally intelligent. Furthermore, it shows the hiring manager that you have the ability to earn love, trust and affection of others with ease.

You most certainly need this trait if you are applying for a leadership position.

Being decisive is another trait that is a must for leadership roles. It shows the hiring manager that you are a spontaneous thinker and can make accurate decisions on the go. Being able to act quickly and accurately in tough spots would really raise your score in the eyes of the hiring manager.

Imaginative

While this one is not a must for a leadership role, the hiring manager would probably look for it. It would show them that you are very ingenious and clever in your dealings.

If you don’t feel right using that adjective, you can switch with creative or innovative, which are just as strong.

Words to describe yourself as a team player

For a great deal of professions, being a team player is crucial. That’s why it is important to catch the hiring manager’s attention with some teamwork adjectives.

And we have some of the most essential ones here for you.

This adjective might sound negative at first, but hiring managers don’t see it that way.

If you describe yourself as persistent, they would assume that you are very determined, relentless and tenacious in your pursuit of anything, but without losing your positive mindset.

This trait would be helpful for lots of things.

It shows the hiring manager that you have the ability to notice details and compose logical analysis. And that would always be appreciated.

That shows one of the most influential traits you can show for yourself - discipline. A discipline to plan and execute strategies correctly is greatly appreciated by hiring managers.

Being personable is great not only for leadership, but also to show that you are a team player. Once again - that trait shows the hiring manager that you are both extroverted, and that you are really outgoing and cheerful.

This is a trait that should be possessed not only by the leader of the team, but also by every team member.

That’s another trait that is applicable to both leadership and teamwork.

In this case, its importance is mostly because of the emotional intelligence of the person, as it is extremely important for team work.

Other words you can describe yourself with

As words have started repeating, we need to save some time for those we have not yet mentioned, but are extremely significant.

Here is a list you might want to consider when describing yourself:

This is always a good trait to assign to yourself, if you have anything to back it up with. It shows the hiring manager that you have a high level of trust and honesty. Usually such a trait is built over the years, especially with positions like finance executive, marketing executive, etc.

This is one of the adjectives that one could use, no matter the job position. It shows the hiring manager that you have determination to grow and survive, no matter the job, and no matter the organization.

It is a really great quality to have, if you really strive for growth.

Compassionate

This trait is typically used in healthcare and in the legal system, but it wouldn’t hurt to describe yourself with it otherwise as well.

It shows the hiring manager that you are caring and concerned for others by default.

That’s one more trait that could be applicable no matter the position and the organization.

Interestingly enough, it is important just because the position and the organization matter to you.

It shows that you have unending commitment to a cause and a leader.

Describing yourself as practical can quite often be a pleasant surprise for the hiring manager.

It shows them that you are guided by experience, rather than mere theories or ideas.

straightforward

And last, but not least, being straightforward. That trait shows the hiring manager that you understand and value integrity. People possessing that trait are usually very understandable.

It would not surprise you that there are also words that you should absolutely stay away from. When it comes to your professional description, these, and many similar adjectives, would probably be misunderstood.

And you don’t want that, you want to present yourself in the best light possible. So, what are these adjectives that you should stay away from?

Here is a short list, but keep in mind that there are many similar ones to these:

• Intelligent

You get the idea, you wouldn’t want to give such an impression to the hiring manager.

As promised, we are going to leave you off with some tips and tricks to use when describing yourself.

First, be concise. Keep your sentences short and to the point. Short, concise sentences have more power.

And, as we mentioned earlier, provide some proof. Any catchy word without context is meaningless to the hiring manager.

And last, but not least, make sure you use any keywords you have seen on the job listing. That’s why it’s important to closely read the job description and include any keywords you find in your resume.

We are all done. Now you know what words to use to describe yourself in the best possible way. You are now ready to show yourself in the best possible light in front of the hiring manager.

Take your time and have a closer look at the job position, so that your description would include more keywords, that the hiring manager would be looking for.

Don’t forget to use action verbs and powerful adjectives, but also give them some context. Keep our example words in mind and make your description perfect for the job you seek.

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The 46 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

Published: May 22, 2024

I’ve sent plenty of cover letters throughout my career, so I know it isn’t usually fun to write one. Fortunately, the cover letter examples I painstakingly gathered below show that it’s possible to have a little fun with your job search — and maybe even make yourself a better candidate in the process.

I was shocked upon learning 45% of job seekers don’t include a cover letter when applying for a job. I definitely don’t recommend following the crowd on this matter because your cover letter is a chance to tell the stories your resume only outlines.

It’s an opportunity for you to highlight your creativity at the earliest stage of the recruitment process.

Are you ready to showcase your unique skills and experience? Or are you looking for more tips and cover letter inspiration?

Keep reading for 40+ cover letter examples, then check out tips for cover letter formatting and what makes a cover letter great.

Table of Contents

Customizable Cover Letter Examples

Best cover letter examples, short cover letter examples, creative cover letter examples, job cover letter examples, career cover letter examples, what is a good cover letter, what’s on a cover letter, what makes a great cover letter.

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

• Standard Cover Letter Template
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

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In a hurry for a cover letter example you can download and customize? Check out the ones below from HubSpot’s cover letter template kit .

1. Standard Cover Letter Example

34. Retail Cover Letter Example

In an increasingly digitized world, where customer-centric strategies are vital for business success, I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"To Whom it May Concern,

I am applying for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot. I have some experience in marketing and can help your clients grow their businesses."

Relevant Professional Experience

It can be tempting to use the same cover letter for every job. After all, it‘s about your experience, isn’t it? But it's not enough to rephrase the work history in your resume.

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking to fill a specific role, so you need to show how your experience translates to their unique needs.

So, the body of a great cover letter should showcase the specific professional experiences that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Emphasize your accomplishments and skills that directly relate to what the job needs.

To speed up this part of the cover letter writing process, start by creating a list of your transferable skills . Drafting this list can help you quickly focus on the skills to highlight in your cover letter.

Then, use AI tools to summarize job descriptions and narrow in on where your experience and the needs of the role you're applying for overlap. This post is full of useful AI assistant tools if you're new to AI.

Helpful Cover Letter Experience:

“At [Company Name], I had the opportunity to assist a global ecommerce retailer in enhancing their online customer experience. By conducting in-depth market research and customer journey mapping, I identified pain points and areas of improvement in their website navigation and user interface.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Experience:

“I also worked with an ecommerce retailer to improve the customer experience. We did some surveys and training, and they were happy with the results.”

Useful Examples

To make your cover letter stand out, add specific examples that show how you've solved problems or gotten results in past roles.

Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, using data to give the reader a clear understanding of your impact.

Helpful Cover Letter Example:

“I lead a team of five content writers while increasing website traffic by 18% year-over-year.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Example:

“I have a great track record of leadership and achieving fantastic results.”

Research and Company Knowledge

Hiring teams aren‘t hiring anyone with the skills to do the job. They’re hiring a person they'll work alongside at their specific company.

So, to show that you‘re not just looking for any job anywhere, share your knowledge of the company’s industry, values, and culture in your cover letter.

Spend some time on the company website and take notes on what makes this business interesting to you and why you would want to work there.

Then, explain how your skills align with the company's mission and goals and explain how you could add to their chances of success. This will showcase your interest in the company and help them see if you are a good cultural fit.

Helpful Cover Letter Research:

“I was particularly drawn to HubSpot not only for its industry-leading solutions but also for its exceptional company culture. HubSpot's commitment to employee development and fostering a collaborative environment is evident in its recognition as a top workplace consistently. I strongly believe that my passion for continuous learning, self-motivation, and dedication to contributing to a team will make me a valuable asset to HubSpot.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Research:

“I have been inspired by HubSpot's commitment to inbound marketing and its comprehensive suite of solutions. HubSpot's dedication to providing valuable content and fostering meaningful relationships aligns with my own values and aspirations.”

Clear Writing

Your cover letter needs to pack in a lot of important information. But it's also important that your cover letter is clear and concise.

To accomplish this, use professional but easy-to-understand language. Be sure to remove any grammar or spelling errors and avoid lengthy paragraphs and avoid jargon or overly technical language.

You may also want to use bullet points to make your letter easier to skim. Then, proofread your cover letter for clarity or ask a friend to proofread it for you.

• Guide to Becoming a Better Writer
• Tips for Simplifying Your Writing

Helpful Cover Letter Writing:

"In addition to my academic accomplishments, I gained valuable practical experience through internships at respected law firms.

Working alongside experienced attorneys, I assisted in providing legal support to clients. This hands-on experience helped me develop a deep understanding of client needs and enhanced my ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts in a straightforward manner."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Writing:

"Furthermore, as a complement to my academic accomplishments, I have garnered invaluable practical experience through internships at esteemed law firms.

Throughout these placements, I actively collaborated with seasoned attorneys to conduct due diligence and furnish clients with comprehensive legal support. Notably, these experiences fostered a profound comprehension of client necessities, whilst honing my legal acumen to articulately convey intricate legal principles within a lucid and concise framework, adhering to applicable precedents and statutes of limitations."

Genuine Interest and Enthusiasm

Find ways to convey your passion for the role and how excited you are to contribute to the company you're applying to. At the same time, make sure your interest feels authentic and outline how it aligns with your career goals.

Your ultimate goal is an enthusiastic letter that feels honest and leaves a lasting positive impression.

Showing excitement in writing doesn't come naturally for everyone. A few tips that can help you boost the genuine enthusiasm in your letter:

• Record audio of yourself speaking about the role, then use voice-to-text technology to transcribe and add these sections to your letter.
• Choose your words carefully .
• Write in active voice.

Helpful Cover Letter Tone:

“I am genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Company/Organization Name] as an accountant. My combination of technical proficiency, eagerness to learn, and strong attention to detail make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident that my dedication, reliability, and passion for accounting will contribute to the continued success of your organization.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Tone:

“Honestly, I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to reconciliations, financial statement analysis, and tax regulations! Engaging in spirited discussions with professors and classmates has allowed me to foster an unbreakable bond with the fascinating world of accounting, and I'm positively bursting with enthusiasm at the prospect of applying my skills in a professional setting.”

Memorable Conclusion

End your cover letter on a strong note. Summarize your top qualifications, restate your interest in the position, and express your interest in future communication.

Then, thank your reader for their time and consideration and include your contact information for easy follow-up.

To make your conclusion memorable, think about what parts of your letter you‘d most like the hiring manager to keep top of mind. Then, consider your word choice and phrasing. If you’re feeling stuck, this list of ways to close an email can help.

Helpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of Greenpeace. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Together, let's make a lasting impact on our planet.

[Your Name]"

Unhelpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further and how I can contribute to Greenpeace's mission. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

I’d like to add another stage to the job search: experimentation.

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search.

But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data I’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.

I certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will.

So, get inspired by these examples and templates. Write an incredible cover letter that shows the hiring team at your dream job exactly who you are.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness. This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

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125+ Words to Describe Yourself in a Job Interview, Resume, and More

Ever been asked to share a fun fact and your mind went blank? Or tried to fill out a dating profile and found it harder than the SATs? Describing yourself can be nerve-racking. You might worry that it sounds braggy, weird, or straight-up boring.

Behold, more than 125 words to describe yourself perfectly, whether you’re giving a quick intro, preparing to answer  interview questions like “How would you describe yourself in three words?” or whipping up a  resume or  cover letter . Plus, we’ll share exactly how to choose the right words for you.

Best words to describe yourself

These words can be used in a variety of circumstances:

• Charismatic
• Collaborative
• Competitive
• Conscientious
• Considerate
• Cooperative
• Data-driven
• Emotionally intelligent
• Enthusiastic
• Experimental
• Extroverted
• Hardworking
• Imaginative
• Independent
• Inquisitive
• Introspective
• Introverted
• Light-hearted
• Open-minded
• Self-reliant
• Spontaneous
• Trustworthy
• Unconventional

Best words to describe yourself in an interview

In a job interview, you may be asked to “Describe yourself in three words,” and you want your answer to stand out. Be ready to:

• Choose words that are relevant to the position. (Hint: Check the job description !)
• Back up why you chose each word with a succinct example or explanation.
• Use this answer as an opportunity to bring up a professional quality or two (or three) that you haven’t gotten to discuss yet.

For example, you could say:

“I’d have to say that I’m resourceful—when I worked in marketing at an early stage startup, I often came up with ways to get our name out there with a very limited budget and a marketing staff of two. I’m also empathetic—my team members often feel comfortable opening up to me and I’m good at adjusting business plans to account for my employees’ personal well-being while still hitting goals. And third, I’m adaptable—that early stage startup changed up its product strategy three times in the first year I was there and I was able to quickly switch gears while seeing what existing work could be repurposed.”

In an interview, it’s also good to have some adjectives in your back pocket to sprinkle into your answers to other questions, like “ Tell me about yourself ” or “ What is your work style? ” But make sure you can always back up what you’re saying, either in your answer or if your interviewer asks you to elaborate.

Here are some words you might use to describe yourself in an interview (but the ones in the list above are still fair game, too!):

• Approachable
• Forward-thinking
• Motivational
• Resourceful
• Straightforward
• Self-starting

Best words to describe yourself in a resume or cover letter

When you’re writing a resume or cover letter, you’re working with a limited amount of space—so you need to find the strongest, most precise, and most relevant words you can to describe yourself. Go back to the job description to look for the skills, qualities, experiences, and values that seem most important to the job and the company and describe yourself in a way that aligns—while still being truthful, of course. For example, are they looking for people who can quickly transition between different tasks? Then maybe you want to describe yourself as adaptable in your application materials.

Your resume should focus on your accomplishments, tailored to the specific job you want , rather than descriptions of yourself. So these words should generally be restricted to your resume summary . On a cover letter , you’re less constrained in what you write about and you can describe yourself throughout. But like in an interview, you’re going to want to back up any word you use to describe yourself with concrete examples and achievements.

The words you use to describe yourself in a resume or cover letter should take job description keywords into account, but here are some to get you started:

• Accomplished
• Detail-oriented
• Experienced
• Knowledgeable
• Self-taught
• Media-savvy

Bonus tips for describing yourself in professional settings

• Adjust your choices based on the situation: There are dozens of words that could describe anyone, so pick the best ones for each scenario. If you’re looking for a job, different employers and positions call for different qualities. For example, if you’re applying for some jobs where you’d be managing direct reports, you might want to focus more on words that describe what you’re like as a leader and boss. Use the job description to see what qualifications matter most for any given posting.
• Choose specific words: Words have their own meanings. Even synonyms rarely mean the exact same thing or evoke the same tone, images, or emotions. So find the word that best suits you and steer clear of the bland descriptors. Sure, you’re “nice” but what form does “nice” take? Are you “dependable,” “generous,” or “empathetic”?
• Don’t sound like a thesaurus: At the same time, you don’t want to choose words just because they’re uncommon or formal. Make sure you’re choosing the best word, not the fanciest. You’re not “gregarious”—you’re “sociable” or “outgoing.” You’re not “exuberant”—you’re “enthusiastic.” You’re not “contrarian”—you’re “annoying” (so you really shouldn’t be using either word as a selling point).
• Select descriptors you can back up: Whether or not you’re going to need to tell a story that exemplifies words you’ve chosen to describe yourself, you should have evidence that shows you’re being truthful rather than just saying what you think the other person wants to hear. In a similar vein, stay away from words that are extremely subjective or too hyperbolic to be realistic like “awesome,” “inspirational,” “tireless,” or “groundbreaking.”

52 Skillful Cover Letter Examples for 2024 & Why They Work

A list of cover letter examples in different industries. Each template includes a brief analysis to help you get ideas on what to write for your application.

The best cover letter examples address specific company needs. Well-written cover letters highlight how you align with the company's values and explain how you have the perfect background for solving certain problems that the company is facing. This should also be written in a way that directly tells employers how you'll positively impact their organization.

Successful cover letters are well-researched, tailored, and personal. It should feel like it's coming from you, a real person. A generic cover letter that works for any other company isn't compelling. Refer to our cover letter examples in your industry to see how it's done. Take inspiration, but don't copy. Replace the details based on your own professional background.

Before you continue to scroll down to find your job position, read this first. 

We’ve briefly broken down each of our professional cover letter samples listed to help you:

• Get new ideas for structuring your cover letter
• Get inspiration for phrasing certain sentences to emphasize your strengths
• Get more confidence sending your cover letter to your hiring manager

So even if a template isn’t in the same field of profession you’re in, you still might learn a thing or two. 

But if you don’t find the exact sample you’re looking for, just know there’s a strong chance we’ll have included one that’s similar and relevant. 

Without further ado, let’s get started. 

What Do You Write About In a Cover Letter?

Your strengths. 

Then again, don’t just focus on talking about yourself. Link it back to why you’re the ideal candidate to hire. This is what a cover letter is about. 

Besides that, here are some other things to keep in mind:

• Academic background
• Goals and objectives
• Professional achievements
• Hobbies and interests

Don’t overcomplicate it. Less is more, so keep it succinct.

If you’re more interested to learn how to write a cover letter step-by-step, it’s worth reading our separate cover letter writing guide here.  

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Accounting and Finance Cover Letter Examples 

All cover letters should show a degree of enthusiasm. More specifically, the reasons why you’re motivated and passionate about the job you're applying for. It’s no different for accountants and professionals working in the finance industry.

We’ll review the following:

• Accountant cover letter
• Banking cover letter
• Certified public accountant cover letter
• Finance cover letter
• Investment banker cover letter

Accountant Cover Letter

The applicant starts by introducing the position they’re applying for and how they came across the opportunity. It’s then followed up by a simple sentence stating why they’re a suitable candidate to hire. 

Similarly, you’ll want to focus on your strengths that show the employers how you would be a good fit for the role.

Banking Cover Letter

This is a great example of using your network and connections to your advantage. When you name drop appropriately after meeting people at an event, it’s effective in getting the hiring manager’s attention.

Compared to a resume, there’s room to be more personal on a cover letter. Don’t shy away from showing employers your personality and interests.

Certified Public Accountant Cover Letter

The main objective of a cover letter is to showcase why you’re the best fit. 

In other words, stick to your strengths and align them with the company values. With the example above, the user focuses on their employment history, i.e. the duties and responsibilities.

Finance Cover Letter

If there are key points on your CV, feel free to expand on them in your cover letter. Talk about what happened behind the scenes, e.g. describing your process and workflow.

Investment Banker Cover Letter

Like the last example, write about the impact you've had in previous job positions. 

There’s no issue with expressing your thoughts as long as you’re keeping it professional. Also, don’t forget to support your points with examples and data.

Business Cover Letter Examples 

Business cover letters aren’t too different from what we’ve seen so far. The purpose of your cover letter is to personalize your application. It clarifies why you’re the best person to hire. 

This section will include:

• Business analyst cover letter
• Business development cover letter
• Consultant cover letter
• Human resources cover letter

Business Analyst Cover Letter

The length of this sample isn’t as long compared to others but it’s more than enough. 

Don’t focus on the length of your cover letter. A concise application is better than one that’s irrelevant and full of fluff. 

Business Development Cover Letter

Start strong like this candidate has by sharing your own experiences and interests related to the company you’re applying to. Make a firm statement about your skills or what you’re looking to accomplish by being a part of the team. 

Consultant Cover Letter

You’re not restricted to only writing in paragraphs. 

Bullet points are useful for making a list. It’s readable and easier to skim through. 

Another good point about this template is that it’s optimized for the job description as keywords have been included appropriately, e.g. management consulting. 

Human Resources Cover Letter

With this cover letter example, the opening paragraph doesn’t mention where they heard about the job vacancy. It goes straight into introducing their background and their purpose for the application. 

Think about how you can personalize your application based on your strengths. This can vary depending on where you’re at in your career. 

Marketing Cover Letter Examples 

In this sector, some jobs are in a higher position than others. Therefore, the approach can be slightly different. 

We’ll assess the following:

• Digital marketing cover letter
• Content writer cover letter
• Marketing manager cover letter
• Director of marketing cover letter
• Social media manager cover letter

Digital Marketing Cover Letter

It’s important to demonstrate your past responsibilities and achievements. Although the second paragraph in this example is more detailed compared to a typical cover letter, the candidate does a good job in highlighting their skills and experience.

Content Writer Cover Letter

This example resembles the standard format of a cover letter . 

In a similar fashion, write down why you’re interested in applying for the job vacancy in the first place. Is there a specific aspect of the job you’re passionate about? How did that passion develop over time?

Marketing Manager Cover Letter

Several keywords related to the vacancy have been used in the sample above such as:

• Email marketing
• Social media promotion
• Online advertising
• Customer service

Use keywords naturally without forcing them. Edit your cover letter accordingly to see where they can be placed or expand on a new point. 

However, keep in mind the length shouldn’t exceed one page.

Director of Marketing Cover Letter

For a higher position like a director of marketing, highlight your relevant: 

• Responsibilities
• Workplace achievements 

In this example, they’ve focused on key tasks from their professional experiences. These will show the employers that they’re more than capable of carrying out the job to a high standard.

Social Media Manager Cover Letter

Show your enthusiasm. Give the hiring manager a taste of what you’re capable of by mentioning the results you’ve accomplished. If you have no work experience , there’s an alternative way to do this.

Design Cover Letter Examples 

Designers should have a portfolio ready to showcase to their employer along with a resume and cover letter. 

The samples we’ll be looking at are the following:

• Interior designer cover letter
• User experience designer cover letter
• Senior UX Manager cover letter
• Web designer cover letter
• Graphic designer cover letter

Interior Designer Cover Letter

This sample begins by providing a brief summary of the applicant’s background. 

Notably, use bullet points to highlight the things that are impressive. For instance, the results of your work. 

User Experience Designer Cover Letter

Notice the format. Rather than having a small opening paragraph and then a bulky paragraph right after, they’ve kept it consistent. Use your professional judgment to decide how you could differentiate from other applicants. 

However, make sure to maintain a professional manner. 

Senior UX Manager Cover Letter

Highlight the strengths and traits that make you uniquely qualified. 

Here, they’ve stated they’re a natural leader with the ability to empathize with users. When making statements like this, back up your claims by describing your experience in previous jobs. 

Web Designer Cover Letter

This is another good example of the standard cover letter format. The opening paragraph states why they are making an application and it provides a brief background about themselves. As we get into the main body, they’ve described their internship experience.

Before the signoff, they’ve written a personal note to express confidence and personality.

Graphic Designer Cover Letter

You can add as much detail as you want but don’t go over one page on your cover letter. 

What’s good about this example is that it’s broken down into smaller paragraphs which makes the text more readable.

Teacher Cover Letter Examples 

As a teacher, you're tasked to bring a positive impact on students and prepare them for the future. An effective learning environment and framework are essential. 

The cover letter templates in this section include:

• Primary school teacher cover letter
• Special education teacher cover letter
• Teacher cover letter
• Teacher assistant cover letter

Primary School Teacher Cover Letter

Keep in mind that cover letters aren’t as formal as resumes. So, you’re open to showing off your personality. In the sample above, the candidate does this by implying their passion and excitement about working in this profession. 

Special Education Teacher Cover Letter

Whether you’re listing out accomplishments from a previous project you worked on or your career highlights, bullet points are effective. They’re better than using big paragraphs as they can make certain points stand out. In this case, it’s the candidate’s accomplishments. 

Teacher Cover Letter

Another factor to the hiring manager’s decision is if you’re a good cultural match. 

With cover letters in the education industry, don’t just outline your strengths. Align your application with the company values and work environment. To do this, check the job description and website carefully to see what’s being emphasized.  

Teacher Assistant Cover Letter

This candidate effectively showcases their hobbies and personal interests. 

Hiring managers will notice that they have a passion for music and enjoy sharing their love for it. If you have a relevant interest in the job you’re applying for where skills intersect, don’t be afraid to mention it. It may give you an advantage since it makes you appear more competent for the role. 

Nursing and Healthcare Cover Letter Examples  

Before being allowed to work as a nurse or healthcare professional, employers need to know that you’re qualified. With a cover letter, you can go in-depth on your qualifications, certifications, and work experience. 

The examples we’ve included are:

• Nursing cover letter
• New graduate nurse cover letter
• Medical assistant cover letter
• Medical scribe cover letter
• Registered nurse cover letter

Nursing Cover Letter

The candidate has kept the application concise. Three paragraphs are the minimum, and it’s more than enough to include everything you need. As long as you:

• Provide an introduction;
• Dedicate a paragraph that directly reveals why you’re a good fit;
• Conclude it appropriately

Then, that’s all that’s necessary. 

New Graduate Nurse Cover Letter

Using bullet points to list your achievements is powerful. 

The first point this candidate mentioned is their academic qualification and grade. This can give employers confidence not just because you’re certified. But because there’s a clear level of commitment displayed. 

Medical Assistant Cover Letter

The candidate emphasizes their knowledge. They’ve also emphasized their communication and interpersonal skills. 

What’s more, they’ve provided specific examples from their previous experiences.

Medical Scribe Cover Letter

Before getting started writing, you should have an idea of some of your best skills or achievements. 

With that in mind, briefly go into detail about your professional background. Look at the things that are relevant which help to distinguish your capabilities, e.g. the writer states they can type over 80 words per minute. 

Registered Nurse Cover Letter

Instead of going into detail in the introduction paragraph, they’ve saved it for the main body of the application. The structure flows nicely as the writer consistently links back to how they can add value. 

Tech Cover Letter Examples 

You may have heard that cover letters aren’t necessary. Even so, that doesn’t mean it’s not a valuable asset to send to your employers. These job documents are used to personalize your application and showcase your background in more detail explaining why you’re the best fit. 

We’ll go over the following:

• Administrative assistant cover letter
• IT Specialist cover letter
• Pharmacy tech cover letter
• System administrator cover letter

Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

From the second paragraph, the recruiter will notice the candidate is experienced working in an administrative role. 

You’ll also notice that they can work as a team and in an office environment based on the responsibilities listed. It’s a straightforward approach to outlining what they’re capable of. Yet, it’ll show recruiters the effort you’re putting in. 

IT Specialist Cover Letter

The candidate expresses their interests by talking about where their enthusiasm comes from. 

When everyone is bound to have similar qualifications, a good strategy to stand out is to focus on your motivations, intentions, and personality traits.

Pharmacy Tech Cover Letter

If you don’t know the recruiter’s name, use their job position instead. Never address them by saying “to whom it may concern” because it indicates a lack of effort and interest.

System Administrator Cover Letter

Several action verbs have been used contextually, which demonstrates a strong level of understanding. This creates a good first impression in terms of their level of expertise. 

Entry Level Cover Letter Examples 

Each of these templates is applicable for graduates, students, and those with not much work experience. These are ideal if you’re applying for an entry level position. 

Here’s what we’ll be reviewing:

• Entry level nurse cover letter
• Entry level system analyst cover letter
• Recent graduate cover letter
• Wait staff (entry level) cover letter

Entry Level Nurse Cover Letter

Qualifications are essential for this role. So the candidate makes this clear in the first few sentences. They’ve also mentioned how they were praised by peers and colleagues in previous employment. 

Entry Level System Analyst Cover Letter

They first mention how they came across the company, followed by a sentence stating their interest.

Next, they explain how and where those interests developed. Unlike some of the other samples, this one revolves around their passion for the profession. However, they don’t just focus on themselves. They link it back to the company’s needs. 

Recent Graduate Cover Letter

The graduate behind this template takes on a personalized approach. 

They showcase how their personal interests match. Plus, they use examples to elaborate and consolidate each point they've made.

They’ve also suggested the next steps, i.e. an interview. In the closing paragraph, the applicant states that they would love to discuss how their objectives align. This plants the idea of how they’d be a good fit for the long-term. 

Wait Staff (Entry Level) Cover Letter

Make it a priority to use relevant terminology where it’s appropriate. Doing this shows industry knowledge. From the sample above, they’ve mentioned words such as customer-service-driven and quality control. 

Student Cover Letter Examples

A cover letter is an especially useful document for students to make up for having little to no corporate experience. 

We’ll go through the following templates:

• College student cover letter
• High school student cover letter
• Biomedical engineering intern cover letter 
• Internship cover letter

College Student Cover Letter

As a student, some of your main highlights might include:

• Certifications
• Relevant projects 
• Extracurricular activities

Take the time to personalize your application. 

Why are you motivated to take on the job you’re applying for? What makes you uniquely qualified? 

Whatever your answer is, give examples by referring back to your previous experiences. 

High School Student Cover Letter

Whether you’re graduating high school, university, or college, there’s no problem with letting your employers know. 

Instead of focusing on the past like most job seekers, i.e. workplace achievements and work experience, focus on the future. That means your goals and objectives. What are they? How do they align with what the company is looking for? 

You’ll still need to demonstrate your value though. In this instance, they’ve talked about coursework and extracurricular activities along with their biggest accomplishments. 

Biomedical Engineering Intern Cover Letter

One alternative to your professional background is your academic background. Here, they’ve written about how they developed their skills through education. This was brought up first before even getting to their internship work experience.

Internship Cover Letter

When writing an internship cover letter , there’s a chance you don’t have the ideal corporate experience. So, it makes sense to focus on your other strengths. Here, they’ve listed relevant coursework and talked about their accomplishments from a previous campaign. 

Senior Cover Letter Examples 

This is for the veterans in the workforce. Feel free to use any of the sample templates below and check out the brief analysis underneath for tips on writing your cover letter . 

Here’s what we’ll go through:

• Senior business analyst cover letter
• Senior data analyst cover letter
• Senior project manager cover letter
• Senior recruiter cover letter

Senior Business Analyst Cover Letter

Set the agenda for what you’ll be focusing on. In this scenario, it’s their experience and skills. 

They first state how they came across the job vacancy and why they would be a great match for their requirements. Next, they introduce their professional background on top of their strengths, which are all key skills for the job. 

From there, the applicant talks about responsibilities they’ve carried out in a previous role. This sets up their next paragraph where they align their value with the company’s goals. 

Senior Data Analyst Cover Letter

Unlike how the previous example broke down the opening paragraph, here they’ve kept it in one. However, rather than outlining specific skills, they’ve outlined job responsibilities and the results they achieved. 

Whenever you excel at your job, use numbers and statistics to prove your point. It makes you look more credible in addition to being a strong performer. 

Also, use keywords. It makes it clear you did your research. The closing paragraph of this template is a good example. 

Senior Project Manager Cover Letter

Show your confidence through your word choices. Notice the difference between these two sentences:

• I’ve developed a strong interest in providing customer service…
• I’ve developed a strong interest in providing incredible customer service…

Adding the right word can make a difference. Use an appropriate adjective to describe what you have to offer. But telling it isn’t enough. You also need to show it, which is what this candidate does by presenting relevant job duties and workplace accomplishments. 

Before signing off, they write how their passion corresponds to the company’s approach. 

Senior Recruiter Cover Letter

This applicant gets the reader’s interest by immediately stating their years of experience. 

That said, they don’t only talk about previous experiences. They let the results of their work do the talking for them. If you have a few results you could list, use bullet points to make them stand out.

Engineering Cover Letter Examples 

Engineers usually have a good amount of certifications and qualifications that add to their credentials. 

In this section, we’ve included the following:

• Civil engineer cover letter
• Electrical engineer cover letter
• Hardware engineer cover letter
• Industrial engineer cover letter
• Mechanical engineer cover letter
• Software engineer cover letter

Civil Engineer Cover Letter

Not all opening paragraphs need to be long. It can even be as simple as this. 

Rather than making things hard, it’s better to be short and concise. Throughout this cover letter, they’ve made it clear that they’re capable by describing their achievements and corporate experience.

Electrical Engineer Cover Letter

Every cover letter should be situated towards your strengths. You can tell from this applicant that it’s his years of experience specifically in the field of electrical engineering.

Hardware Engineer Cover Letter

The main highlight behind this cover letter is the candidate’s experience with a variety of responsibilities. Going more in-depth from your resume reinforces your skills as an engineer. 

Industrial Engineer Cover Letter

One option is to break down the paragraphs from the main body of your cover letter to make it more readable. From the template above, the candidate has broken it down into two paragraphs.

Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter

Let employers know you’re confident in taking on the job. For example, have you developed an essential skill that proves you’d be valuable to the company? If so, talk about it and mention how it’s going to be beneficial. 

Software Engineer Cover Letter

Unlike most samples on the list, the second last paragraph is the most content-heavy. The reason it’s written in a big paragraph is that it’s focused on one employment experience. 

Throughout this, the candidate talks about things such as:

• The impact they’ve made
• Job responsibilities
• Collaborations with other companies
• Accomplishments e.g. surpassed 24 million users

Notably, they’ve included numbers and reputable companies as they describe their duties. Being specific about each detail helps to position you as the expert.

Sales Cover Letter Examples 

The last batch on this list relates to the sales industry. 

As interpersonal skills are important in a sales position, cover letters are a good way to demonstrate your creative ability and written communication skills. Technically speaking, you’re trying to sell your value to your employers by displaying what makes you a skilled professional. 

In this last batch, we’ll go over:

• Bartender cover letter
• Customer service representative cover letter
• Customer support cover letter
• Retail sales associate cover letter
• Sales cover letter

Bartender Cover Letter

Mentioning key hard or soft skills that you’ve developed paints a good impression about your capability. If you have experience working in similar environments (e.g. restaurants), let them know. 

Customer Service Representative Cover Letter

Tie back your passions to the company values. On top of personalizing your cover letter, the hiring manager will see you’ve taken the time to do your research.

Customer Support Cover Letter

Keywords have been used contextually as they’ve linked it back to their experience and previous responsibilities. From this, the recruiter can acknowledge that they’re informed about what it takes to provide a good customer experience. 

Retail Sales Associate Cover Letter

What have you learned the most over your years of experience?

Whatever your answer is, prove it using data and results. This makes you appear as a strong performer as well as someone that’s reliable to work with. 

Sales Cover Letter

In a sales role especially, employees should be curious and self-motivated. 

Communication isn’t the only important skill. Soft skills in general are important, which is what the applicant has highlighted through words such as:

• Resilient self-starter
• Computer savvy
• Fast learner

More Cover Letter Templates At Your Disposal

There are ways around writer’s block. One is to use the AI writer feature to have your application created automatically for you based on the company’s requirements. Two is to start by taking inspiration from other examples.

If your job position didn’t make it to our list, no worries. We have hundreds more cover letter templates ready-to-use here at your disposal . 

A Good Cover Letter Improves Your Chances of Getting Hired

If your resume isn’t well written, a good cover letter examples could make up for it. In fact, 83% of HR decision-makers reported in a survey that they’re an important factor when making a hiring decision. 

It’s worth putting the effort into writing a cover letter because it’s going to be a useful and relevant document for recruiters.

Are you someone who’s going to be committed? 

Do you have the strongest work ethic and competence compared to other applicants?

Can you meet the job criteria? 

These are the types of questions they’ll be thinking about throughout the process. It’s up to you to communicate in your application whether or not you meet those expectations.

Aside from your skills, hiring managers also want to know if you’re someone who matches their company culture. And that’s where cover letters are helpful. Unlike a resume, you have the opportunity to explain why they should invest in you. 

Resumes, cover letters, and letters of interest alike… They’re all similar in terms of time and effort. 

We understand it isn’t always as simple as it seems to create a tailored application. 

So we built a range of tools and resources to help job seekers land the golden job opportunities they come across in their careers. 

Here are some other guides we recommend:

• The purpose of sending a cover letter
• 2 scenarios of when cover letters aren’t necessary
• How to get past any company’s job application scanners

Astley Cervania

Astley Cervania is a career writer and editor who has helped hundreds of thousands of job seekers build resumes and cover letters that land interviews. He is a Rezi-acknowledged expert in the field of career advice and has been delivering job success insights for 4+ years, helping readers translate their work background into a compelling job application.

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