cover letter for admin job template

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

Maybe, your career as an administrative assistant started back when you organized your classmates' desks.

Jokes aside — you always had a knack for efficiency and organization, and now you’ve turned those skills into a profession.

It's a dream come true, but there's just one hurdle standing in your way — the cover letter.

Staring at that blank page, trying to convey your skills and experience, feels a lot like being stuck in a loop. It's like experiencing writer’s block, and you just can't seem to find the right words to paint yourself in the best light.

Don’t worry though!

In this article, we're here to assist you in crafting the perfect administrative assistant cover letter, step by step.

We'll guide you through:

• An Outstanding Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example
• 5 Simple Steps to Craft the Best Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
• 3 Essential Tips for a Successful Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Let’s dive in!

Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

You've just seen what a job-winning cover letter looks like. 

Now, it's your turn to write one . Just follow the steps we're about to share, and you'll be on your way to crafting a standout cover letter that gets results. 

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

When creating your administrative assistant cover letter, it all begins with your contact information, just like on your resume . Here's what you should include:

• Full Name: Your complete name should be at the top of the page.
• Job Title: Tailor your job title to match the specific administrative assistant role you're applying for. Clarity here helps streamline the hiring process.
• Email Address: Opt for a professional and straightforward email address, typically a combination of your first and last name.
• Phone Number: Ensure your phone number is accurate, including the dialing code if applying for positions abroad.
• Location: Mention your city and state or country. If you're open to remote work or relocating, make that clear on your administrative assistant resume.
• Relevant Links (Optional): Include any pertinent websites or social media profiles, such as LinkedIn.

Next, it's time to provide the receiver’s info. That includes: :

• Company Name: Specify the company you're applying to.
• Hiring Manager's Name: Whenever possible, identify the hiring manager for the department you're interested in. Research the job ad, the company's website, or LinkedIn for this information.
• Hiring Manager's Title: If you ascertain that the hiring manager for this specific job ad holds a department head role, use that title instead of just "Hiring Manager."
• Location: Include the city and state or country, particularly for globally operating companies. 
• Email Address (Optional): If available, include the hiring manager's email address.
• Date of Writing (Optional): Consider adding the date you composed your cover letter for that extra touch of professionalism. Now you're ready to start crafting your winning cover letter for the administrative assistant role you desire. Good luck!

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've included all the necessary contact information for your administrative assistant's cover letter, make sure to address the hiring manager the right way.

Addressing your cover letter correctly can make a positive impression on the hiring manager. 

Start by conducting some research. Check the job posting, the company's website, or LinkedIn profiles to find the hiring manager for the position you're interested in. This way, you can find their name and email address.

Next, address them formally. Consider using "Ms." or "Mr." followed by their last name. If you're unsure about their gender or marital status, you can simply use their full name. For example:

• Dear Mr. Smith,
• Dear Alex Johnson,

In cases where you can't find specific information about the hiring manager or the head of the administrative department, you can address your letter to the department or the company in general:

• Dear Administrative Department,
• Dear Administrative Hiring Team,
• Dear Human Resources Recruitment Team,

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers typically spend about seven seconds reviewing a candidate's application before deciding whether to read it thoroughly. That’s why grabbing their attention from the get-go is crucial if you want them to read the rest of your cover letter. 

Formally introduce yourself in the opening statement and clearly state your interest in the role. Expressing your enthusiasm for the industry or the specific job can grab the hiring manager's attention.

Researching the company can help improve your opening statement even further. The more you know about the employer, the better you can emphasize how you fit in with their culture. 

This can show to the hiring manager that you're not just applying indiscriminately; you're interested in this particular position.

Depending on your experience level, you can also kick off your cover letter by highlighting a noteworthy achievement or the skills that make you an ideal fit for the role. Keep this paragraph concise, aiming to spark the hiring manager's curiosity and encourage them to explore your cover letter in more detail.

Check out some more cover letter examples to get inspired about writing your opening statement. 

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The body of your cover letter is your opportunity to dive deeper into your qualifications and professional skills.

Avoid the temptation to simply rehash your resume; that won't cut it here. Your objective is to demonstrate, beyond a doubt, that you're the standout candidate. To achieve this, focus on showcasing your achievements relevant to the administrative assistant field, drawing inspiration from the job listing.

Tailoring your cover letter to align with the job advertisement is key. Highlight the specific skills the company seeks and how you can contribute to their team. For instance, if you're vying for an administrative assistant role in a tech-centric environment, emphasize your tech-related skills rather than, for example, your experience in e-commerce.

Displaying knowledge about the company, its products, services, or industry can earn you extra brownie points. If you're well-acquainted with the company's offerings, be sure to mention it in your cover letter to illustrate your alignment with its mission and culture.

Lastly, be enthusiastic. Express your genuine excitement for the role and your unwavering confidence in how your unique skills and experience will be a valuable addition to their organization. This enthusiasm can be infectious and leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

Also, make sure to avoid these common cover letter mistakes that can harm your chances of landing an interview. 

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Concluding on a professional note is the cherry on top of your administrative assistant cover letter.

Your goal here is to ensure you leave a positive impression on the hiring manager, reinforcing the confidence you’ve demonstrated throughout your letter.

So, wrap up by confidently reiterating why you're an ideal fit for the administrative assistant role or summarize the skills that set you apart from other candidates.

And don’t forget to include a call to action. Encouraging the hiring manager to take the next step, such as discussing your application further, can create a lasting impression and boost your chances of securing an interview.

To wrap it all up, select a professional sign-off. Choose an appropriate signature line, followed by your full name. Here's an example:

Please don't hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email or phone number to arrange an interview. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to discuss my application in more detail at your earliest convenience.

If you're looking for alternatives to "Sincerely," consider these options:

• Kind regards,
• Respectfully,
• Thank you for your consideration,

Choose the sign-off that best aligns with your personal style and the tone of your cover letter.

3 Essential Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Tips

You've got the basics down, and now it's time to fine-tune your administrative assistant cover letter with some essential cover letter tips that will make it shine. Let's dive into these valuable insights to help you create a standout cover letter.

#1. Match Your Resume

If you’re serious about landing a position, it's important that all the documents in your job application are fine-tuned with each other.

Ensure that your administrative assistant cover letter's formatting and layout match your administrative assistant resume to convey professionalism and attention to detail. Make sure your text and contact details are neatly aligned on the page, maintain consistent font styles and sizes, and set appropriate margins and line spacing to keep your cover letter concise on a single page. 

This consistency will show you’re professional and serious about the job.

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Struggling to craft the perfect cover letter from scratch? Don't worry; we've got a time-saving trick up our sleeves. 

Try out our free resume builder to create the perfect administrative assistant resume.

Then, pick a cover letter template that matches it visually to save time and effort.

Our templates are created in collaboration with hiring managers around the world, which means they hit industry standards right on the mark. You save time and get a matching cover letter for your resume that looks absolutely professional. Sweet deal, isn’t it?

#2. Mention The Right Skills

Highlighting your skills in your administrative assistant cover letter is crucial. 

The trick here, however, is not just to list all your skills. Firstly, keep it relevant and only talk about the skills you have that are required for the job. If you’ve already listed them on your resume, this is your chance to actually explain in more detail how they make you the perfect fit for the job. 

This demonstrates to hiring managers that you understand the role's requirements and have what it takes to excel in it. So, make sure to weave your skills into your cover letter strategically, emphasizing how they align with the position's demands.

#3. Be Formal

Maintaining a formal tone in your administrative assistant cover letter is the way to go. 

Keeping things formal will reflect your professionalism and respect for the workplace environment. This formality sends the right message to potential employers, indicating that you’re serious about the application and can conduct yourself appropriately in a corporate setting.

That said, don’t go overboard with the formality. You can, for example, make the cover letter a bit more personal by addressing the hiring manager by their name or sign off using “Warm Regards.” 

Key Takeaways

And that sums up crafting an administrative assistant cover letter!

We hope our guide has equipped you with the tools to write a spot-on administrative assistant cover letter. 

Before you head off, let's quickly review:

• Ensure your administrative assistant's cover letter provides any relevant links or attachments so the hiring manager can easily access additional information related to your experience.
• Ideally, your cover letter should be addressed directly to the hiring manager. A little research on the job posting might help you discover their name.
• Use your cover letter to elaborate on the administrative skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate. Highlight expertise that aligns with the job requirements.

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12 Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples

Administrative Assistants are the backbone of any organization, adept at juggling multiple tasks, prioritizing, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Similarly, your cover letter serves as the backbone of your job application, skillfully balancing your professional narrative, showcasing your ability to handle diverse responsibilities, and demonstrating your commitment to efficiency. In this guide, we'll explore the best cover letter examples for Administrative Assistants to help you to present a compelling case for your next role.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start an Administrative Assistant cover letter is by grabbing the reader's attention immediately. Begin by addressing the hiring manager by name, if it's known. Then, introduce yourself and briefly mention the position you're applying for. You can also mention a notable achievement or experience that aligns with the job requirements. For example, "As an Administrative Assistant with over five years of experience in managing complex schedules and coordinating travel, I was excited to see your job posting for an Administrative Assistant." This approach shows that you're professional, experienced, and enthusiastic about the role.

Administrative Assistants should end a cover letter with a strong closing statement that reiterates their interest in the position and the value they can bring to the company. This could be something like, "I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique skills and experience to your team and am confident that I can contribute significantly to your operations." Following this, it's important to express gratitude for the reader's time and consideration, such as, "Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my candidacy further." Lastly, end with a professional closing and your full name. "Sincerely" or "Best regards" are commonly used closings. If you're submitting a digital copy, include your contact information below your name. This ending leaves a positive, professional impression and opens the door for further communication.

An Administrative Assistant's cover letter should ideally be about one page in length. This is a standard length that allows you to succinctly present your skills, experiences, and qualifications without overwhelming the reader. It's important to remember that hiring managers often have to go through a large number of applications, so keeping your cover letter concise and to the point can increase the chances of it being read thoroughly. In terms of word count, aim for around 250 to 400 words. This should give you enough space to introduce yourself, explain why you're interested in the role and the company, and highlight your most relevant skills and experiences.

Writing a cover letter with no direct experience as an Administrative Assistant can seem challenging, but it's absolutely possible. Here's how you can approach it: 1. **Understand the role**: Research the role of an Administrative Assistant thoroughly. Understand the skills and qualities required for the job. This could include organizational skills, communication skills, proficiency in certain software, etc. 2. **Highlight transferable skills**: Even if you haven't worked as an Administrative Assistant before, you likely have skills from other jobs or experiences that are relevant. For example, if you've worked in customer service, you've likely developed strong communication and problem-solving skills. If you've worked in a fast-paced retail environment, you've likely honed your ability to multitask. Highlight these transferable skills in your cover letter. 3. **Show enthusiasm for the role**: Employers value candidates who are enthusiastic about the job. Express your interest in the role and the company, and explain why you're interested. This can help make up for a lack of direct experience. 4. **Provide examples**: Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills. For instance, if you're claiming to have strong organizational skills, provide an example of a time when you used these skills to achieve a positive outcome. 5. **Express willingness to learn**: If you don't have direct experience, showing a willingness to learn can be very appealing to employers. Make it clear that you're eager to learn and grow in the role. 6. **Keep it concise and professional**: Your cover letter should be no more than one page. Keep the tone professional, and proofread carefully to avoid any errors. 7. **Use the right format**: Start with a formal salutation, introduce yourself, explain why you're interested in the role and the company, highlight your relevant skills and experiences, and conclude with a strong closing statement. Remember, everyone starts somewhere. Even if you don't have direct experience, your unique combination of skills, experiences, and enthusiasm can make you a strong candidate for an Administrative Assistant role.

Related Cover Letters for Administrative Assistants

Executive assistant cover letter.

Office Administrator Cover Letter

Data Entry Cover Letter

Virtual Assistant Cover Letter

Secretary Cover Letter

Receptionist Cover Letter

Administrative Aide Cover Letter

Administrative Assistant Intern Cover Letter

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Administrator cover letter examples

A role as an administrator is rarely dull. So if you’re looking for a varied and fast-paced position, this could be perfect for you.

But before you can get started, you need to land the job. And before you can do that, you need to land the interview.

So, to help you write an impressive application that’s bound to get you noticed, we’ve put together our top tips and some administrator cover letter examples. Check them out below.

CV templates 

Administrator cover letter example 1

Administrator cover letter example 2

Administrator cover letter example 3

These 3 Administrator cover letter examples will provide you with some good ideas on how to format a cover letter, along with the type of message you should be trying to put across to recruiters .

To further understand exactly how you can write a cover letter that will get you noticed, check out our further guidance.

How to write a Administrator cover letter

Here’s how you can write your own eye-catching cover letter, broken down into simple steps.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

Type the content of your cover letter directly into the email you are sending, or if you are applying via a job board, directly into their messaging system.

The reason for doing this it to ensure that your cover letter gets seen instantly and you can start connecting with the recruiter as soon as they open your message.

If you attach your cover letter as a separate document, the recipient will have to open up the document, which will slow the process down, or make them less likely to even open your cover letter – which could mean your application gets skipped over.

Start with a friendly greeting

To start building rapport with the recruiter or hiring manager right away, lead with a friendly greeting.

Try to strike a balance between professional and personable.

Go with something like…

• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Stay away from old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies – they can come across as cold and robotic.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try to uncover it via these methods.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of Administrator with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Administrator cover letter

So, what type of information should you write about in your Administrator cover letter?

The specifics will obviously depend on your profession and the jobs you are applying to, but these are the key areas you should be covering.

• Your industry experience – Tell recruiters the types of companies you have been working for and the roles you have held in the past.
• Your qualifications – Highlight your most important relevant qualifications to show employers you are qualified to do the roles you are applying for.
• The impact you have made – Demonstrate the positive impact you have made for employers in previous jobs. Have you saved money? Improved processes? Made customers happy?
• Your reasons for moving – Employers will want to know why you are leaving your current/previous role, so provide them with a brief explanation here.
• Your availability – When will you be able to start a new job ? Check your current contract to find out your notice period if you are in a position already.

Administrator cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Administrator cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Good morning, Alice

Please see attached my CV in application for the Administrator vacancy advertised on Indeed. As a dedicated professional with a demonstrated track record in school administration and leadership, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to support the growth and success of your esteemed institution.

With 10 years overall experience, and 5 of those in my present role as an Administrator at Newham Sixth Form College, I contributed towards transforming the school into a vibrant and inclusive learning community. By fostering a positive climate and implementing data-driven initiatives, I increased student retention and parent satisfaction by 30%+, slashed expenses by 45% through diligently managing budgets while maintaining high educational resource standards and boosted community engagement by 70%.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my qualifications align with the needs of St. Michael’s Catholic College. Thank you for your consideration.

Kind regards

Nicky Bullard ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Good morning, Matthew

I am writing to submit my application for the position of Senior Administrator at the University of Manchester. As a passionate and committed individual with 18+ years of experience and a track record of fostering academic excellence, nurturing a positive school culture, and facilitating staff development, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of your institution.

I have gained valuable insights into the complexities of higher education and the importance of creating an environment that supports growth, innovation, and inclusivity. In my current role as an Administrator, I have continuously facilitated positive change and enhanced Durham University’s reputation.

Some notable achievements I would like to mention include contributing to a 43% increase in research funding and academic program offerings, implementing student success initiatives that boosted graduation rates by 28% within 7 years, and creating professional development workshops for faculty which led to the adoption of novel teaching methods and augmented scholar satisfaction by 50%.

With all my experience and an MA in School Administration, I hope that you recognise my enthusiasm and will consider me for the position.

Becky Goldbridge ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Hello Debbie

I am interested applying for the Graduate Administrator position at Bigland Green Primary School. As a recent graduate with a passion for education and a strong commitment to student success, I believe that my academic background and dedication make me an ideal candidate for this role.

I completed my bachelor’s degree in education leadership (Hons) from the University of Cambridge, where I obtained 5 distinctions. Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently demonstrated exceptional academic performance and gained valuable insights into the latest trends and best practices in school management. My coursework has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of teaching policies and curriculum development, which I am eager to apply in a real-world setting.

During my studies, I served as a member of various societies and collaborated with fellow students and faculty in organising professional development workshops which encouraged continuous learning and growth among aspiring instructors.

I feel that my knowledge fits perfectly with the requirements you are looking for in a candidate, and I am available for an interview at your convenience.

Brian Keane ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing a strong attention-grabbing cover letter is a vital step in landing a good Administrator job.

Use the tips, strategies and examples above to get more responses from you job applications and start lining job interview up.

Good luck with your job search!

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Administration Cover Letter Example

In this post, administrative cover letter template.

In this post Show

A sample cover letter for an administration position, with tips and tricks on how to stand out from other job applicants. Use this example to build your own cover letter.

Before you start writing your cover letter, review the job ad to find a list of qualifications and skills sought after by the employer.

It is imperative to distinguish your cover letter from others to increase your chances of landing a job interview. Each administration cover letter that you write should demonstrate your work experience and professional skillset, as well as your unique qualifications and accomplishments before applying.

Usually, the first paragraph of a professional cover letter will explain why you are the perfect fit for the role, drawing on relevant experience or educational background. Below is a cover letter template for an office administrator, which could be applied to similar roles such as an administrative assistant job or assistant position.

This template is created for administration roles. All you need to do is input your own information!

Once you’ve downloaded and edited your cover letter, make sure to save it with a new name (try: <Your name> Cover Letter — <Position you’re applying for>). Then, export the document as a PDF and you’re ready to submit it.

[Today’s Date]

[Your full name] [Your phone number] [Your email] [Your address, city, state, postcode] [Your LinkedIn]

[Hiring Manager’s Name] [Company Address, City, State] [Phone number] [Email address]

Dear [Hiring Manager],

RE: <insert role title> position

I was delighted to read about the Administrative Assistant job opening at XXX [company name]. With several years of experience in a variety of administrative fields, mainly XXX and XXX, I believe I am the perfect fit for this role.

As noted on my resume, my competencies and capabilities are firmly in line with the requirements stated in your job description demonstrating strong communication skills, customer service and excel knowledge. For instance, while working/studying at XXX, I gained a deep understanding of all job duties for an administrative assistant to perform them as efficiently and as diligently as possible.

Furthermore, I have been trained in XXX and XXX to deliver within high-pressure deadlines consistently. This includes researching, writing reports, designing high impactful PowerPoint presentations, and more. In all the previous positions and work experiences that I have done, I have always strived to improve my skillset. I have approached them for career advancement and discovery and aim to bring the same vision to your workplace.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I am eagerly looking forward to hearing back from you at your earliest convenience. I welcome the opportunity to meet and discuss your needs with me in detail. Please feel free to contact me via phone or email.

Yours Sincerely,

[Your name]

Note: Be sure to include all relevant contact information and personal data for the recruiter/hiring manager.

A perfect cover letter for an administrative job will highlight all your relevant skills and qualifications tailored to your administrative position. These cover letter tips should make your job application stand out from the crowd. Be sure that your administrative resume and cover letter match to ensure transparency in your job application.

The job search can be hard to navigate, and templates can help you get started. It is imperative, however, that if you do use cover letter or resume templates, to modify it still to ensure it differentiates between another administrative cover letter samples.

Cover Letters: A Comprehensive Guide [With Templates and Examples]

Learn how to create a polished, professional, and personal cover letter that will grab the hiring manager’s attention for all the right reasons.

Read the Guide

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Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2024?

Published: April 03, 2024

Writing a cover letter can be daunting.

I’ll never forget my college career coach, who made writing a cover letter look easy. Even with her tips, I’ve always found it incredibly difficult to talk about myself and hype up my accomplishments.

While it acts as a letter of introduction, I’ve wondered if a cover letter is necessary in 2024. To find out, I spoke with two recruiters and gained insights on how to write the best cover letter for any job application.

How important is a cover letter?

Is a cover letter necessary, when to skip a cover letter, when to include a cover letter, tips for writing a cover letter, what if the cover letter is optional.

Cover letters are short letters of introduction that you include with job applications.

Typically, they are your chance to go into deeper details about your accomplishments that you might not have highlighted or had room to mention on your resume.

Tiffany Hall, a professional resume writer and founder of Resume911 , says cover letters are an important part of the job application process.

Hall says, “Cover letters can be very important. It’s supposed to sell why you, of all applicants, should get the job. The issue is that applicants use them to regurgitate what’s on their resume, and that’s not what it’s for. It should speak to what isn’t easily explained with your resume.”

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For example, if your resume says you’re skilled at building web pages, your cover letter is a great place to name-drop companies that you’ve worked for to create their websites.

Matthew Muehleisen, a corporate recruiter , thinks a cover letter is also a great place to show you’ve done your homework and researched a company.

Muehleisen says, “It can be what sets you apart from other candidates and applicants and is a good opportunity to show that you’ve done research on the position and company to further showcase your interest in the role.”

Knowing the importance of a cover letter still begs the question: Is a cover letter necessary in 2024?

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While a cover letter can help demonstrate your knowledge of the company you’re applying to and highlight more of your achievements, both Hall and Muehleisen agree that a cover letter isn’t entirely necessary.

Muehleisen says, “Unless it’s a requirement of the application, I wouldn’t say it’s necessary to include a cover letter. There are some roles (usually in content creation and marketing) that will ask for a cover letter as a form of a writing sample. In these instances, make sure your letter is polished and focused.”

If Hall had her way, she would eliminate the cover letter entirely, focus more on the resume, and ask for a link to an applicant’s LinkedIn profile.

According to Hall, “Most cover letters either repeat the resume or they speak to why the applicant isn’t a good fit. Neither is the purpose of a cover letter.”

Nevertheless, 74% of hiring managers still prefer applications to include a cover letter. So, it is definitely worth considering including one — even if the application says it’s optional.

If you’re looking for a new role, writing a cover letter can be time-consuming — especially if you take the time to personalize every letter you send to a hiring manager.

Although a cover letter does serve a legitimate purpose, and 83% of hiring managers read it, there are a few situations where you shouldn’t include a cover letter. Let’s take a look at those scenarios.

If You Only Have a Template of a Cover Letter

I get it. Writing an effective cover letter takes a significant amount of time.

But consider not sending one if you only have time to plug your information into a cover letter template without personalizing it before hitting submit on an application.

Don’t get me wrong. A cover letter template is a great starting point to write your cover letter. Templates often remind you to include pertinent information like the hiring manager’s title, name, and your contact information.

However, if you don’t take the time to edit the body of the cover letter and personalize it with research and your relevant experience, you risk sending the same letter as another candidate.

And considering that 48% of hiring managers spend anywhere from 30 seconds to two full minutes reading each cover letter, the chances are high that your hiring manager can spot a form letter a mile away.

Don’t send it if you don’t have the time to personalize a cover letter.

If Your Cover Letter Is Full of Critique

A cover letter is meant to explain why you’re the best candidate for the open position. However, a cover letter is not a place for you to share your ideas of how the company can improve.

Sure, every company likely has areas of improvement, and the job you’re applying for might be the role that gets a say in that, but a list of improvements might read as a critique.

You don’t want to potentially offend a hiring manager before you even get an interview. A bad cover letter can hurt a strong candidate, according to 33% of hiring managers .

Before you submit your cover letter, read through it several times to make sure it’s not a critique. If it does sound like a critique, throw it out.

If It’s Not Required

There are other instances where you shouldn’t send a cover letter. For example, if the application’s instructions specifically state that you do not need to submit a cover letter for consideration for the job.

In fact, sending a cover letter anyway can signal to the hiring manager that you don’t follow instructions. Not following instructions is also a great way to land your application in the trash bin.

The bottom line is this: If the application specifically states not to send a cover letter, don’t send it.

Of hiring managers, 74% prefer to see job applications with a cover letter apart from the resume. Knowing this, if you have the time to include a cover letter with your job application, don’t skip it.

Here are three instances when you should send a cover letter with your application.

Send a cover letter if you’re very interested in the role.

Think of your cover letter as your time to shine. Use it as a place to highlight your experiences and the qualifications that make you a great fit for the position.

Hall says, “If you can speak to why you’re a good candidate without copying your resume in paragraph form, include a cover letter.”

In other words, don’t use bullet points in your cover letter to describe your previous employment history.

Instead, talk about what you learned on the job and how your skills will help you excel in the role you’re applying for.

Send a cover letter when there’s a gap in your resume or you’re transitioning industries.

If you’re looking to transition to another industry, you should definitely include a cover letter with your application.

Speaking from personal experience, if I had only submitted a resume to my school district when I applied to be a Spanish teacher, the hiring manager would have just seen my experience in Public Health and would not have known about my skills and success in tutoring students in Spanish.

Muehleisen puts it this way, “If you’re looking to transition to a new industry or if there is a position and company you’re really excited about pursuing as an opportunity, these are the best instances to include a cover letter so that you can possibly give yourself an advantage.”

A cover letter can also help explain any gaps in your resume — especially if the gap in your employment history is beneficial to the role you’re applying for.

For example, maybe you volunteered in South America, and the role you’re applying for is for a position in Global Operations.

It never hurts to include positive, pertinent information in your cover letter.

Send a cover letter when it’s required.

The most obvious time to include a cover letter with your application is when it is required. Just like not including a cover letter when it’s not required, it shows you can follow directions.

Include a cover letter when the application asks you to submit one, which shows you can follow directions.

Plus, if the application asks for a cover letter, you can bet the hiring manager will look for it. If no cover letter is included, well, you’re sabotaging your chances of getting an interview.

Only 13% of hiring managers will consider giving a candidate an interview if they don’t attach a required cover letter to an application.

Writing a cover letter is not as painful as it sounds. There are great templates you can use as a starting point for your cover letter.

The trick with a template, though, is to make sure you always personalize the letter to your own experiences and qualifications.

Here are five expert tips to write a winning cover letter.

1. Tailor your cover letter to the job description.

When writing a cover letter, especially if you use a cover letter template, you should tailor the letter to match the job description and meet the requirements of the application.

For example, if the application asks you to attach a short cover letter, keep it brief. Your best bet is one to two short paragraphs detailing why you’re a great fit for the position.

You’ll also want to reference keywords from the job description in your cover letter. Many recruiters use applicant tracking systems that scan application packets for the best fit.

Often, hiring managers review the applications that match the keywords first.

Now, that doesn’t mean to stuff your cover letter with keywords. Instead, use them in a natural way as you discuss your qualifications.

2. Be personable with your greeting.

You might have seen the advice telling you to use “To Whom It May Concern” instead of the hiring manager’s name. This is good advice, but only if you do not know the hiring manager.

Before resorting to a generic greeting to start your cover letter, take the time to look on the company’s website and LinkedIn to find out who makes hiring decisions.

If you have contacts in your network who are familiar with the company, ask them. Taking the time to research the hiring manager and the company shows you care about the details — a quality many hiring managers look for in a candidate!

If you’re still unsure after researching the company, consider using “Dear Sir or Madam” as your greeting.

3. Be yourself.

While a cover letter is a formal introduction of yourself to a potential employer, it doesn’t need to be lacking in personality. Hall suggests sprinkling your personality in your cover letter to spark connections with the hiring manager.

Hall says, “Be your best professional self. I’m a foodie and will include references to food on my LinkedIn, and I’ve done it in a cover letter. I’ve had managers reference them, and we had a chuckle. I am also very clear about aligning myself with companies whose mission and goals I respect and can contribute to. I make sure to speak to that in the cover letter.”

Take Hall’s advice. Showcasing your vibrant personality in your cover letter can help break the ice in your interview!

4. Proofread your cover letter.

Once you’ve written your cover letter and before you hit “send,” double-check that it is free from spelling and grammar errors and that the company you referenced is the company you are applying to.

Muehleisen says skipping proofreading your cover letter is a big mistake — and it could cost you the job!

Muehleisen says, “Make sure that you are proofreading prior to sending. If the cover letter feels like it is a simple cut/paste or if the job title and company name are incorrect, it may do more harm than good. So, be sure that what you’re sending is pertinent.”

5. Be cautious of AI.

AI tools, like ChatGPT or Claude, are great for helping draft content. You might be tempted to ask generative AI to write your cover letter for you. However, both Hall and Muehleisen say to proceed with caution when it comes to AI.

Hall says, “AI is coming along in amazing ways, so it may come as a surprise that my best tip didn’t include AI. I tell my clients when they’re stuck to look to their peers. You can search people by job title on LinkedIn. See how they describe themselves and pull from there. Or, hire a resume writer or career strategist to help you.”

Muehleisen agrees with her. He says, “I would hesitate to use a tool or service for a cover letter as the point should be to show your authenticity. If you are going to use AI for assistance, make sure to put your own words in as well.”

However, when you write your cover letter, whether using a template or generative AI, personalizing it is key to standing out from the competition.

If the job description says a cover letter is optional, should you send one, or can you get by without it?

That can be tricky, considering 72% of recruiters still expect a cover, even if it’s optional.

According to Muehleisen, sending a cover letter is not a bad idea. He says, “I’ve never heard of a cover letter hurting an applicant’s chances; just make sure the one you’re including is specific to the job description and posting.”

Check out these cover letter examples for more inspiration.

Experiment With Your Cover Letters

Writing a cover letter is a breeze once you get the hang of it. With today’s challenging job market, sending a cover letter with your application can make a difference in whether you get called for an interview.

I can’t make promises that your cover letter will dazzle hiring managers each time, but for the right position for you, it will.

Remember Hall and Muehleisen’s advice when you craft your cover letter. Personalization is key to success!

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How to write a good cover letter

A cover letter should highlight your motivation to apply for a specific job or opportunity, and demonstrate why you consider yourself to be the best candidate. Your cover letter should refer to particular examples in your CV and describe why these are relevant for the job vacancy you are applying for.

Read carefully

Read the vacancy notice carefully and highlight the skills that relate to the requirements of the position in your cover letter.

Use keywords

Use the keywords when you list your soft skills as mentioned on the vacancy notice (punctual, organised, team-player and so on).

Have short and clear paragraphs that show different aspects clearly.

Get to know the employer

Take time to research the employer to gain valuable insights into the culture of their organisation and make references in your cover letter to one or two key points.

Keep it short

You cover letter should not be longer than one page.

• First paragraph - why you are motivated to apply for the position,
• Second paragraph - how you are the most suitable candidate for the position, and
• Third Paragraph - why the company is a good match for you.

Use formal tone

Use a formal, polite tone and make sure there are no spelling mistakes.

Use simple fonts

Use simple non-decorative font styles, normal font-sizes (11-12) and optimal spacing (1 or 1.5).

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