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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure
A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.
Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.
What is a cover letter and why does it matter?
A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.
An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.
Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .
What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?
A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:
1. Personalization
Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.
2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills
Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.
3. Show enthusiasm and fit
Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.
What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?
Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:
Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.
Clear and concise writing
A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.
Demonstrated knowledge of the company
Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.
Achievements and accomplishments
Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.
Enthusiasm and motivation
Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.
Professionalism
A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.
How do you structure a cover letter?
A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:
Contact information
Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.
Employer's contact information
Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.
Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.
Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.
How to write a good cover letter (with examples)
The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.
Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.
1. Add a header and contact information
While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:
- Pronouns (optional)
- Location (optional)
- Email address
- Phone number (optional)
- Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)
You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:
Christopher Pike
San Francisco, California
Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:
Warm regards,
Catherine Janeway
Bloomington, Indiana
(555) 999 - 2222
2. Include a personal greeting
Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”
Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.
Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.
Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.
3. Draw them in with an opening story
The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing.
There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.
Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.
Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:
“Dear Mr. John Doe,
Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.
My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”
4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job
Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.
Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.
Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:
- They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
- They value collaboration and input from every team member
- They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies
Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:
“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.
Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”
5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully
Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.
You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.
When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”
Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:
“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.
Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume
When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:
- Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
- Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
- Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
- Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
- Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
- Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
- Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
- Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
- Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
- Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
- Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
- Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
- Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
- Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
- Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.
Common cover letter writing FAQs
How long should a cover letter be.
A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.
Should I include personal information in a cover letter?
While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.
Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?
While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.
Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?
Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."
Should I include references in my cover letter?
It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.
It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter
The hardest part of writing is getting started.
Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started.
There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role.
Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.
If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.
Ace your job search
Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.
Elizabeth Perry, ACC
Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.
3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention
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Your Complete Guide to Writing a Cover Letter (Plus Bonus Tips and Examples)
Ah yes, the familiar cycle: You sit down to write a cover letter, open a blank document, check your email, browse cover letter examples , do some chores, watch that cursor blink a few more times, and finally Google something like “how to write a cover letter”—which hopefully brought you here. But you still might be thinking something to the effect of: Does anyone really read cover letters? Why do they even exist?
First off: Yes, we can assure you that cover letters do, in fact, get read . To some hiring managers, they’re the most important part of your job application . And regardless, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to tell prospective employers who you are, showcase why they should hire you, and stand out above all the other candidates.
To ensure your letter is in amazing shape (and crafting it is as painless as possible), we’ve got easy-to-follow steps plus examples, a few bonus tips, and answers to frequently asked questions
What is a cover letter and why is it important?
How to write a cover letter hiring managers will love, what do examples of cover letters look like, bonus cover letter tips to give you an edge over the competition, cover letter faqs (a.k.a., everything else you need to know about cover letters).
A cover letter is a brief (one page or less) note that you write to a hiring manager or recruiter to go along with your resume and other application materials. Done well , a cover letter gives you the chance to speak directly to how your skills and experience line up with the specific job you’re pursuing. It also affords you an opportunity to hint to the reviewer that you’re likable, original, and likely to be a great addition to the team.
Instead of using cover letters to their strategic advantage, most job applicants blabber on and on about what they want, toss out bland, cliché-filled paragraphs that essentially just regurgitate their resume, or go off on some strange tangent in an effort to be unique.
Given this reality, imagine the leg up you’ll have if you learn how to do cover letters right.
OK, you’re sold on how important cover letters are. Here are eight steps to writing one that screams, “I’m a great hire!”
Step 1: Write a fresh cover letter for each job (but yes, you can use a template).
Yes, it’s way faster and easier to take the cover letter you wrote for your last application, change the name of the company, and send it off. But most employers want to see that you’re truly excited about the specific position and organization—which means creating a custom letter for each position.
While it’s OK to recycle a few strong sentences and phrases from one cover letter to the next, don’t even think about sending out a 100% generic letter. “Dear Hiring Manager, I am excited to apply to the open position at your company ” is an immediate signal to recruiters and hiring managers that you’re mass-applying to every job listing that pops up on LinkedIn.
At the same time, there’s nothing that says you can’t get a little help: Try out one of our free cover letter templates to make the process a bit easier.
Step 2: Add your contact info.
At the top of your cover letter, you should list out your basic info. You can even copy the same heading from your resume if you’d like. Some contact info you might include (and the order you might include it in) is:
- Your pronouns (optional)
- Your location (optional)
- Your email address
- Your phone number (optional)
- Your Linkedin, portfolio, or personal website URL (optional)
Note that only name and email are mandatory, and you don’t need to put a full address on a cover letter or resume anymore. A city and state (or metro area) are more than enough.
So your header might look like this:
Inigo Montoya he/him Florin Metropolitan Area [email protected] 555-999-2222
If the job posting tells you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can add your contact info at the end, after your name (and if you’d like to forgo the email address here, you can—they have it already).
So your sign off could look like this:
Violet Baudelaire she/her [email protected] 123-123-1234 https://www.linkedin.com/in/violet-baudelaire/
Step 3: Address your cover letter to the hiring manager—preferably by name.
The most traditional way to address a cover letter is to use the person’s first and last name, including “Mr.” or “Ms.” (for example, “Dear Ms. Jane Smith” or just “Dear Ms. Smith”). But to avoid accidentally using the wrong title, or worse, inadvertently misgendering someone—first and last name also work just fine. And if “Dear” feels a bit too stiff, try “Hello.” But never use generic salutations like “ To Whom it May Concern ” or “Dear Sir or Madam.”
For more help, read these rules for addressing your cover letter and a few tips for how to find the hiring manager .
Step 4: Craft an opening paragraph that’ll hook your reader.
Your opening sets the stage for the whole cover letter. So you want it to be memorable, friendly, conversational, and hyper-relevant to the job you’re pursuing.
No need to lead with your name—the hiring manager can see it already. But it’s good to mention the job you’re applying for (the hiring manager may be combing through candidates for half a dozen different jobs), and yes, you could go with something simple like, “I am excited to apply for [job] with [Company].” But consider introducing yourself with a snappy first paragraph that highlights your excitement about the company you’re applying to, your passion for the work you do, and/or your past accomplishments.
This is a prime spot to include the “why” for your application. Make it very clear why you want this job at this company . Are you a longtime user of their products? Do you have experience solving a problem they’re working on? Do you love their brand voice or approach to product development? Do your research on the company (and check out their Muse profile if they have one) to find out.
For instance, say you’re applying for a marketing job with a company known for its incredible pies and baked goods. You might want to use your opening to mention how you love pie so much that when you were in the 4th grade, you took the blue ribbon in the National Cherry Festival pie-eating contest. Or take a look at this cover letter hook by a client of career coach and Muse writer Jenny Foss , who was working to land a leadership role at a nonprofit specializing in fire prevention:
“I have a personal interest in fire prevention that dates back to my youth. As the daughter of a nurse who worked in a hospital burns unit for many years, I grew up with significant exposure to those impacted by fire. I’d spend hours thinking about my mom’s patients, wishing there were some way to better protect people from fire.”
Read More: 30 Genius Cover Letter Openers Recruiters Will LOVE
Step 5: Convey why you’d be a great hire for this job.
A common cover letter mistake is only talking about how great the position would be for you . Frankly, hiring managers are aware of that—what they really want to know is what you’re going to bring to the position and company.
So once you’ve got the opening under wraps, you should pull out a few key ideas that will make up the backbone of your cover letter. They should show that you understand what the organization is looking for and spell out how your background lines up with the position. Study the job description for hints . What problems is the company looking to solve with this hire? What skills or experiences are mentioned high up, or more than once? These will likely be the most important qualifications.
Select the three to five important qualifications that you feel you exemplify best. For instance, maybe you’re looking for an account executive role and come across a posting that excites you. You might pull out these details that match you well:
- The job description mentions meeting and exceeding quotas several times.
- The company has a very collaborative, cross-departmental approach to solving problems.
- The sales department requires a fast learner so the account executive can get up to speed quickly on leads and tailor pitches to their needs.
If you tend to have a hard time singing your own praises and can’t nail down your strengths, here’s a quick trick : What would your favorite boss, your best friend, or your mentor say about you? How would they sing your praises? Use the answers to inform how you write about yourself. You can even weave in feedback you’ve received to strengthen your case (occasionally, don’t overuse this!). For example:
“When I oversaw our last office move, my color-coded spreadsheets covering every minute detail of the logistics were legendary; my manager said I was so organized, she’d trust me to plan an expedition to Mars.”
Step 6: Back up your qualifications with examples and numbers.
Look at your list of qualifications from the previous step, and think of examples from your past that prove you have them. And go beyond your resume . Don’t just regurgitate what the hiring manager can read elsewhere. Simply put, you want to paint a fuller picture of what experiences and accomplishments make you a great hire and show off what you can sashay through their doors with and deliver once you land the job.
For example, what tells a hiring manager more about your ability to win back former clients? This: “I was in charge of identifying and re-engaging former clients.” Or this: “By analyzing past client surveys, NPS scores, and KPIs, as well as simply picking up the phone, I was able to bring both a data-driven approach and a human touch to the task of re-engaging former clients.”
Having trouble figuring out how to do this? Try asking yourself these questions and finding answers that line up with the qualifications you’ve chosen to focus on:
- What approach did you take to tackling one of the responsibilities you’ve mentioned on your resume?
- What details would you include if you were telling someone a (very short!) story about how you accomplished one of your resume bullet points?
- What about your personality, passion, or work ethic made you especially good at getting the job done?
Come up with your examples, then throw in a few numbers. Hiring managers love to see stats—they show you’ve had a measurable impact on an organization you’ve worked for. Did you bring in more clients than any of your peers? Put together an impressive number of events? Make a process at work 30% more efficient? Work it into your cover letter!
Going back to the example from the last step. How could you prove that you’ll meet and exceed sales quotas if they hire you? Try something like:
“ I’ve always been very goal-oriented—whether that goal was hitting a new personal best on the swim team in college or smashing my quotas as a sales development rep for ZZZ Inc. As an SDR, I break my quarterly sales goals down month-by-month and then week-by-week—so that I always know whether I’m ahead, behind, or on-track. I also take an hour every Friday to reflect on what I could’ve done better in the previous week—so that I’m always improving. With these strategies, I’ve met my goals for meetings set 10 out of the last 10 quarters and actually averaged 114% to goal for finding leads that eventually turned into sales over every quarter last year. As an account executive for your company, I’d bring that same drive and systematic approach for meeting longer-term targets to my sales quotas. ”
Do this for each of the qualifications you want to focus on, and feel free to connect your accomplishments directly to the company. Pro tip: Use your space wisely. For more important qualifications, you might dedicate an entire paragraph, while others may only need a sentence or two.
Step 7: Finish with a strong conclusion.
It’s tempting to treat the final lines of your cover letter as a throwaway: “I look forward to hearing from you.” But your closing paragraph is your last chance to emphasize your enthusiasm for the company or how you’d be a great fit for the position. You can also use the end of your letter to add important details—like, say, the fact that you’re willing to relocate for the job.
Some advice might tell you to go with a hard close: Boldly insist that you’re the one, and that you’re going to call them within a week to set up a meeting. But with over 10 years of experience as a recruiter, Foss finds this annoying. It’s one thing to be proactive and confident but, to her, this approach feels like a cheesy tactic stripped out of an old school “How to sell yourself” textbook.
Instead, try something like this:
“I believe my energy, desire to innovate, and experience as a sales leader will serve OrangePurple Co. very well. I would love to meet to discuss the value I could add as your next West Coast Sales Director. I appreciate your consideration and hope to meet with you soon.”
Then be sure to sign off professionally , with an appropriate closing and your first and last name.
Read More: 3 Cover Letter Closing Lines That Make Hiring Managers Grimace (Plus: Better Options )
Step 8: Reread and revise.
We shouldn’t have to tell you to run your cover letter through spell-check, but remember that having your computer scan for typos isn’t the same as editing . Set your letter aside for a day or even just a few hours, and then read through it again with fresh eyes—you’ll probably notice some changes you want to make.
You might even want to ask a friend or family member to give it a look. In addition to asking them if they spot any errors, you should ask them two questions:
- Does this sell me as the best person for the job?
- Does it get you excited?
If the answer to either is “no,” or even slight hesitation, go back for another pass.
Here’s an example cover letter that follows this advice:
Alia Farhat San Francisco Bay Area [email protected] 444-000-1111
Hello Danny Tanaka,
If I’m being honest, I still haven’t fully gotten over the death of my first Tamagotchi pet when I was six years old. (His name was Tommy, and I’ve gotten far more creative since then, I promise.) When I was older, I discovered NeoPets and I was hooked for years—not just on the site, but on the community that surrounded it. So when I heard about FantasyPets last year, I immediately started following news about your development process, and that’s how I saw your post looking for a marketing strategist. Not only do I have eight years of experience in digital marketing, but as a lifelong gamer with a passion for pet-focused titles who’s spent years in online communities with like-minded people, I also know exactly what kind of messaging resonates with your target audience.
You’re looking for someone to help you craft a social media marketing campaign to go along with your game launch, and I’ve been a part of three launch-day marketing campaigns for mobile and web-based games. In my current role as social media manager at Phun Inc., I proposed a campaign across Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok based on competitor research and analysis of our social campaigns for similar games to go along with the launch of the mobile game FarmWorld. Using my strategy of featuring both kids and adults in ads, we ended up driving over one million impressions and 80k downloads in the first three months.
I’ve always believed that the best way to find the right messaging for a game is to understand the audience and immerse myself in it as much as possible. I spend some of my research time on gaming forums and watching Twitch streams and Let’s Plays to see what really matters to the audience and how they talk about it. Of course, I always back my strategies up with data—I’m even responsible for training new members of the marketing team at Phun Inc. in Google AdWords and data visualization.
I believe that my passion for games exactly like yours, my digital marketing and market research experience, and my flair for turning data into actionable insights will help put FantasyPets on the map. I see so much promise in this game, and as a future player, I want to see its user base grow as much as you do. I appreciate your consideration for the marketing strategist role and hope to speak with you soon.
Alia Farhat
Looking for more cover letter examples? Check out these from across our site:
- 4 best cover letter examples for different types of job seekers
- Pain point cover letter example
- Internship cover letter example
- Recent graduate cover letter example
- Career changer cover letter example
- Stay-at-home parent returning to work cover letter example
- Sales cover letter example
- Email marketing manager cover letter example
- No job description or position cover letter example (a.k.a., a letter of intent or interest)
- Buzzfeed-style cover letter example
- Creative cover letter example (from the point-of-view of a dog)
As you write your cover letter, here are a few more tips to consider to help you stand out from the stack of applicants:
- Keep it short and sweet: There are always exceptions to the rule, but in general, for resumes and cover letters alike, don’t go over a page. Need help? Check out these tips for cutting down your cover letter .
- Never apologize for your missing experience: When you don’t meet all of the job requirements, it’s tempting to use lines like, “Despite my limited experience as a manager…” or “While I may not have direct experience in marketing…” But why apologize ? Instead of drawing attention to your weaknesses, emphasize the strengths and transferable skills you do have.
- Strike the right tone: You want to find a balance between being excessively formal in your writing—which can make you come off as stiff or insincere—and being too conversational. Let your personality shine through, for sure, but also keep in mind that a cover letter shouldn’t sound like a text to an old friend.
- Consider writing in the company’s “voice”: Cover letters are a great way to show that you understand the environment and culture of the company and industry. Spending some time reading over the company website or stalking their social media before you get started can be a great way to get in the right mindset—you’ll get a sense for the company’s tone, language, and culture, which are all things you’ll want to mirror—especially if writing skills are a core part of the job.
- Go easy on the enthusiasm: We can’t tell you how many cover letters we’ve seen from people who are “absolutely thrilled for the opportunity” or “very excitedly applying!” Yes, you want to show personality, creativity , and excitement. But downplay the adverbs a bit, and keep the level of enthusiasm for the opportunity genuine and believable.
The bottom line with cover letters is this: They matter, much more than the naysayers will have you believe. If you nail yours, you could easily go from the “maybe” pile straight to “Oh, hell yes.”
- Are cover letters still necessary?
- Do I have to write a cover letter if it’s optional?
- Can I skip the cover letter for a tech job?
- What does it mean to write a cover letter for a resume?
- How can I write a simple cover letter in 30 minutes?
- How can I show personality in my cover letter?
- What should I name my cover letter file?
- Is a letter of intent different from a cover letter?
- Is a letter of interest different from a cover letter?
Regina Borsellino and Jenny Foss contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.
How To Write A Cover Letter (Definitive Guide + Template)
Mike Simpson 0 Comments
By Mike Simpson
So you want to learn how to write a cover letter…
But let me ask you this:
Have you ever been on a blind date?
It can be overwhelmingly nerve wracking.
There you are, all dressed up in your finest, ready to sit down across the table from someone you know absolutely nothing about, and hopefully survive the meeting without too much trouble.
At the absolute best, you two hit it off.
Things are great and you discover through your first awkward meeting that you’re perfect for each other and destined for years of happy togetherness.
At the worst, you’re forced to sit across from someone you have absolutely nothing in common with.
You spend the entire date suffering through what can feel like absolute eternity, stumbling through awkward starts and stops in the conversation..
But what if you each had a cheat sheet?
A sort of pre-blind date rundown of who you’re going to meet?
A cheat sheet that includes all sorts of vital information like who you are and what you can bring to the relationship. It would make things so much easier, right?
Now, what if you not only had this cheat sheet, but you got to look at it and decide if you even wanted to go on that date in the first place? Even better, right?
FREE BONUS PDF CHEAT SHEET : Get our "Perfect Cover Letter" Cheat Sheet that gives you a Step-by-Step Process that will help you produce a perfect cover letter.
CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR CHEAT SHEET
In the business world, interviews are a lot like blind dates.
Employers sit down with potential employees and over the course of the meeting, both parties try to learn enough about each other to decide if working together is good idea or a bad idea…just without the awkward hug/kiss thing at the end…hopefully.
See…not so far off from our blind date scenario from earlier…but there is ONE big difference.
Did you know that companies do have those little cheat sheets on potential employees and that they do ‘pre-screenings’ before the offer to interview is even considered?
That’s right! They do.
Every single piece of information you send a company you’re applying to is going to be thoroughly looked at to determine your potential for compatibility, starting with your cover letter.
“But wait,” you say, “what’s a cover letter, and more importantly, why do I need to send one along with my resume?”
Don’t worry, we’re going to explain exactly what it is…and so much more.
In fact, over the course of this article, we’re going to discuss a number of things you’ll need to know in order to make your cover letter not only right for who you are and what you bring to the table…but tailor it so it’s absolutely perfect for your first blind date…er, we mean…the job you’re applying for.
What Is A Cover Letter Anyway?
Before you learn how to write a cover letter, you first need to understand what it is!
A professional cover letter is a short, single page letter you should include with every application and/or resume you send out.
It’s a quick way for you to introduce yourself to an employer and gives them a taste of you …not just your skills (which they will get by looking at your resume.)
Not only does it act as an introduction, it will also let whoever is reading it (hiring managers) know exactly why you are sending them your information as well as potentially help open the door to future meetings…and interviews!
Remember, first impressions count…even when they’re on paper, so let’s make sure yours is as perfect as possible.
Why Do I Need One?
Okay, so I get what a cover letter is, but why do I have to write one? Shouldn’t my resume be strong enough on its own?
Ideally, yes, you want to make sure the resume you are submitting is as strong as possible and perfectly tailored to the job you’re applying for (more on tailoring in a bit) but simply sending it in without including a cover letter can work against you.
As we outlined in our article “ How to Make a Resume 101 ,” a resume is a document that summarizes your skills, abilities and accomplishments. A well made one should clearly spell out what you can do …but does little to explain who you are.
That’s where a cover letter comes in.
A good cover letter serves a multitude of purposes beyond simply letting the hiring manager know the proper way to spell your name.
It gives potential employers information about you that they wouldn’t get just from looking at your resume alone.
To bring it back to our dating analogy from earlier…a well written cover letter is a little bit like a friend meeting with your date and telling them all the best things about you before you even get there.
It’s an opportunity for you to reach out as an individual, not just as an applicant .
It should highlight your qualifications as well as demonstrate how you stand out from the rest of the hundreds (or thousands) of other qualified job seekers .
It should also showcase why you’re the right choice for the position…what makes you the “ Perfect Candidate ”…and all this is accomplished before you’re invited to the date, er…I mean interview…
But what if I’m applying for a job that just asks me to send in my resume…do I still need to send in a cover letter?
Absolutely!
Sending in a resume without a cover letter is a missed opportunity you can’t afford to take in this competitive job market.
Not only does a good cover introduce you and all your best qualities, it’s also an opportunity to help explain away any concerns a prospective employer might have about your ability to do the job they’re hiring for .
The last thing you want to do is turn in a resume or application for a job you’re perfect for and have it get tossed before you even make it to the interview stage because there was something that made an employer question your abilities.
Have a gap in employment on your resume? – Use your cover letter as an opportunity to explain it:
In the middle of switching careers and finding that your skills , while applicable to the job you’re applying for aren’t traditionally considered to be a match? Use your cover letter to detail why you should be considered anyway.
These days submitting a cover letter is just good form!
Many times employers expect cover letters even if they don’t explicitly ask for one.
A job seeker who sends in a resume without a cover letter is essentially letting an employer know they’re happy doing just the bare minimum…and that’s just not the way we like to do things!
By writing a solid cover letter, even when not asked for one, you’re taking that extra step as a job seeker and reinforcing that you’re not only enthusiastic about the opportunity but that you’re also motivated to do what it takes to get in the door for that face to face meeting.
**A WORD OF WARNING …if a company specifically asks you NOT to send a cover letter…then don’t. Always follow the instructions as outlined by a potential employer.
How To Format Your Cover Letter
“So I need to write a cover letter for a job application…what makes a good one?”
Because your cover letter is your first opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills to your potential employer, it’s critical that you make sure you’re doing everything you can to make your cover letter layout as flawless and business-appropriate as possible.
(This is why we spent a little extra time expanding on Cover Letter Format in our companion guide, “Best Cover Letter Format Guide.” Click the link to check it out now!)
The next question you might be asking yourself is, “How long should a cover letter be?”
Ideally you want to keep your letter between 3-5 paragraphs in length and definitely no longer than one page.
The eternal struggle regarding what to include in a cover letter continues to rage on. In our opinion the best cover letter is informative without being overly long or rambling .
Each paragraph should serve a purpose and shouldn’t be excessively lengthy or confusing.
Remember, the hiring manager is going to be faced with potentially thousands of cover letters so your goal is to make sure yours is brief enough to still be read but detailed and interesting enough to make them want to learn more about you .
Speaking of standing out, this isn’t the time to get creative with fonts, designs, colored paper, or showcase your artistic talents with doodles on the margins.
A cover letter, like every other piece of paperwork you submit to a potential employer, is a professional document and should look like one.
Use fonts that are simple and professional like Arial , Times New Roman , or Verdana and be sure to set your font size between 10 and 12 points .
Let’s take a look at standard cover letter formatting:
- Start by first including your personal contact information. ( You want to make sure your future boss can contact you for that interview, right? )
- Follow that by the date you are writing the letter and then the company contact information . Be sure to separate each section with a space…it makes your letter easier to read.
If you are mailing a hard copy of your letter, make sure when you get to the bottom and your salutation to double space . It will give you room to sign your letter. If you are emailing your letter, or submitting it electronically and can’t sign it with your autograph, it’s still important to leave that double space.
Here’s A Good Format Template
Your Address
City, State, Zip
Your Best Contact Phone Number
Your Professional Email
Your Personal Branding Website
Employer Name
City, State, Zip Code
Dear Mr./Mrs. Last Name:*
PARAGRAPH 1: Because this is your opening paragraph, you want to make sure it’s strong and draws the reader in. Explain why you are writing. Describe the job you are applying for, including the position and job title.
PARAGRAPH 2: Now we move into the actual text of the letter. This is where you get to introduce yourself and tell your potential employer why you are qualified to do the job you are applying for. This is your chance to let them know what you have to offer and why your skills and knowledge are perfect for the position. Don’t forget to tailor based off your research!
PARAGRAPH 3-4: If needed, these are the paragraphs where you can explain away any concerns an employer might have about your ability to do the job. It’s also where you can share accomplishments , success stories, and any other bits of information that will help convince the hiring manager that they have to bring you in for an interview.
FINAL PARAGRAPH: This is where you wrap up your letter. Make sure to thank them for considering you for the job and let them know they should feel comfortable reaching out to you with any questions or concerns not addressed in your letter/resume. This is also the paragraph where you let them know how you plan on following up with them.
Finally, be sure to direct the hiring manager to your Your Personal Branding Website so that they are able to get a feel for who you are as a person. This simple step can land you way more interviews!
Sincerely (or any other closing comment),
Signature/Typed Signature Your Personal Branding Website
* You want to always try to address your cover letter to someone specific. Unfortunately that information is not always available. If you find yourself writing a letter and unsure of who to address it to, use “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear Recruiter.”
* Don’t use “To Whom it May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam” as those are considered outdated and you run the risk of offending someone. You can also call the company directly to ask to whom you should address your letter.
* In some instances you can completely forgo the opening salutation and just start with a subject line, but we suggest at least making an effort to find out who to address it to. It makes the letter much more personal and shows your dedication to the position.
NOTE: For more information please read our “how to address a cover letter” article .
“Tailoring” Your Cover Letter
Now that we’ve covered the general format of a cover letter, it’s time to dive into the content!
Let’s pretend for a moment you’re the hiring manager and you’ve just gotten this letter:
EXAMPLE OF A BAD COVER LETTER
To Whom It May Concern,
I recently came across your job post looking for a Production Office Coordinator for the educational television series, “Wonder Kids.” I think my skills and experience would be a good match for the position and I am submitting my resume to you in the hopes of obtaining an interview.
For the past eight years I have worked as a Production Office Coordinator on a variety of other shows, providing crucial administrative support as well as maintaining and managing the day to day operations of a busy production office. I am familiar with all aspects of production including contracts, budgets, proper paperwork distribution, and travel coordination. I pride myself on my organizational skills as well as my ability to run an efficient staff of over 10 employees.
I am attaching my resume which outlines all my past work experiences as well as a detailed listing of my qualifications and skills. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you about this position.
Blanche D. Oatmeal
Zzzzzz. Oh, sorry. Was I napping? Ugh what a snoozer!
Although professional, this is a generic cover letter and if you ask me, pretty bland.
It reveals little about Blanche beyond the fact that she thinks she’s qualified for the job and that she’s been in the industry for over 8 years. A letter like this is the bare minimum when applying for a job… and you’re not the bare minimum .
Don’t forget, you’re the perfect candidate , and a good cover letter is a great first way to let potential employers know that!
Rather than submitting a snooze-worthy letter that will blend into every other letter the hiring manager is going to read, you’re going to tailor your letter and help make sure it really stands out.
If you’ve spent any amount of time reading our other blog posts or watching our videos, you’re probably familiar with our world-famous “ Tailoring Method “.
Now what you might not know, is that the Tailoring Method can actually apply to other parts of your interview as well, including how to write a great cover letter.
You see, there’s a tremendous amount of power in identifying what the company’s desired strengths and characteristics are for the employee they want to hire .
Because demonstrating that you have these Qualities is going to put you in the drivers seat in terms of getting an offer from your interview.
So you need to identify what those “ Qualities ” are, and infuse them into your cover letter and support them with a real example from your past (and where necessary, a success story ).
This is done by taking the time to do careful research of the company and the position .
Here, let’s spice up Blanche’s letter a bit…starting with paragraph one.
First thing you want to keep in mind is, those poor hiring managers are reading tens of hundreds of cover letters and after a while, they’re all going to start blending together…make your stand out…in a good way!
Dear Mr. Sorensen:
When I saw the job posting looking for a Production Office Coordinator for the educational television series, “Wonder Kids,” I knew I had to submit my resume. I am a hard-working and enthusiastic Production Office Coordinator with over eight years of practical hands on experience and am ready for my next adventure! I am currently looking for an opportunity to continue working within the industry and know my skills and experiences would be a good fit for the position and the “Wonder Kids” team overall.
Much better, right?
This is how you want to start a cover letter!
Not only is it a break from the cookie cutter style cover letters that regularly flood a hiring manager’s desk, it shows that the applicant is excited to be applying for the job .
It also lets the hiring manager know the applicant isn’t just looking for a job, but that they’re looking to be a part of a team.
The letter is also properly addressed to who is actually reading it. Remember, “To Whom It May Concern,” and “Dear Sir or Madam” are too generic and can come across as lazy.
While we’ve already said it is okay to use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Recruiter,” going that extra mile can make all the difference with a weary reader. Don’t forget, you want to stand out!
Let’s keep reading…
As a Production Office Coordinator, my skills include scheduling, contracts, paperwork distribution, and budgeting. I’m also comfortable dealing with vendors, hiring and managing staff, and ensuring the smooth day to day operations of a busy office. My experience has included both small and large budget companies, and as a result, I am familiar with the need to be adaptable and find myself excited by the prospect of a challenge.
Again, personal , engaging , and dynamic . This letter helps the hiring manager know that the applicant is ready for any challenge and that they’re adaptable.
Now we get into the meat of the letter and where you can brag a bit about what you bring to the table. Let’s say that through her research, Blanche discovered that the company she’s interviewing with really values someone who excels in (has the “ Quality “) “attention to detail.”
Well, she better darn make sure she highlights that Quality and supports it with an example or examples from her past .
I am proud of my attention to detail and as a result of my experiences with companies of different sizes and budgets, have been able to develop skills not normally associated with the more traditional Production Office Coordinator role, including graphic design, managing social media and web development. I enjoy working with a wide variety of people and am a multitasker, diligent self-starter and eager team player.
Nicely done, Blanche!
A little bit of subtle bragging while showcasing something the applicant is proud of accomplishing for the company overall without coming across as arrogant or too boastful.
The next paragraph is where you can engage the company on a one on one level and show how much research you’ve done on them and their current projects .
I also wanted to take this opportunity to let you know that my interest in working for you extends beyond my desire to simply be a Production Office Coordinator. I grew up on the show “Wonder Kids” and consider them to be a huge part of my early education. I am a strong believer in quality children’s programming and have always felt that “Wonder Kids” provided not only entertainment, but educational value as well. If hired, I would be proud to be a part of the “Wonder Kid” family and help continue that legacy for future generations.
The applicant is letting the hiring manager know that they’re not just blindly applying to the company but that they genuinely know a bit about them and that they have a passion for what the company does .
Okay, Blanche, time to bring it home.
Thank you for taking the time to review my resume and consider me for this position. You can contact me with any questions by emailing me at [email protected] or by calling me at 555-555-5555. I would also love if you could take a look at my website, blancheoatmeal.com.
I look forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you.
When an applicant wraps up their letter this way, they’re outlining the next steps they hope the company will take (contacting them for an interview) and ensuring that the information they need to do that is right there in front of them.
By making it easy for them and including phone numbers and other contact information, a perfect candidate is empowering the employer to take the action the candidate wants.
By including their personal branded website , the applicant is also inviting the hiring manager to get to know even more about them and what they bring to the table.
When wrapping up your letter with follow up information, tread lightly but confidently. Whatever you do, don’t push too hard in this paragraph. You don’t want to appear manipulative or controlling.
Remember, you want a job interview…not a restraining order 😉
Warmest regards,
blanchedoatmeal.com
Now that is a great example of a cover letter that will get a hiring managers attention!
By keeping it short and sweet, you’re not overwhelming them with a ton to read…but at the same time by making it engaging, tailored , and personal, you’re ensuring that it stands out and highlights you in a positive way.
In our opinion this a wonderful example of how to end a cover letter that you should take into consideration when working on yours.
A good cover letter closing will leave a great taste in the hiring manager’s mouth and will go a long way to securing an interview.
If after sending your cover letter and your resume you don’t hear from the company in a couple of days, a quick “wanted to be sure you had received my application” email is an entirely appropriate follow-up, even without telling them that you will be following up first.
If you do end up needing to write a follow-up note, you absolutely should slip in a line like “I really think my (skills and talents that are relevant to the job) would be great for (the company), and want to make sure my application didn’t get lost or submitted incorrectly.”
You can also throw in something again about why you want to work at that company – mention some company values or exciting projects to show that you’ve done your research and are really interested in them specifically.
Sample Cover Letter Used Above
Here is the complete cover letter as written above if you would like to download it...
Top 10 Cover Letter Tips & Hacks
- SHORT AND SWEET: Your cover letter should never go over a single page. Keep it clean and concise. Keep your sentences focused and avoid using flowery words.
- KNOW WHAT YOU WANT AND GO FOR IT: Make sure you let your potential employer know exactly what you are bringing to the job. They have a need and you are there to fill it. Tell them how you are going to accomplish that.
- TAILOR! TAILOR! TAILOR!: Don’t be vague or generic. Make sure your letter is clearly targeted to the job you are going for as well as the company you want to be hired by. Do your research ahead of time.
- COVER LETTERS ARE LIKE SNOWFLAKES – NO TWO ARE ALIKE: Unless you’re launching a direct mail campaign, make sure you’re fine tuning each and every cover letter you sending out so it focuses on the specifics of the job you are applying for.
- KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE: Make sure you are addressing your letter directly to the proper individual. Do your research and find out who will be reading it…and absolutely make sure you have the proper spelling of their name. If you can’t get a name, make sure to address it “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear Recruiter.” Don’t use “To Whom it May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam” as those are considered outdated.
- PROOFREAD!: The fastest way to end up in the circular file is by submitting a sloppy letter. Double check to make sure your spelling and grammar are correct.
- THE KEY TO SUCCESS LIES WITH KEYWORDS: Pay careful attention to what is said in the job postings. Look for key words and phrases in the description and make sure to echo those in your letter but don’t overstuff your letter.
- BE PROFESSIONAL: Keep the focus of your letter on the job you are applying for. Introduce yourself but don’t go into too much detail or bring up anything unrelated to the job. Do not speak badly of past employers or trash talk prior jobs.
- LINK IT UP: Make sure your letter includes a link to your personal branded website. A cover letter is a great introduction into who you are and what you can bring, and by including a link to your personal website, you’re allowing a potential employer to really explore everything you potentially can bring to the position.
- FOLLOW UP!: Demonstrate your dedication to the position by making sure to follow up on all your contacts if possible. Don’t become annoying, but at the same time, if you don’t reach out, you run the risk of being forgotten.
Common Mistakes
We’ve covered what what should be in a cover letter, but what should you NOT put in your cover letter?
- Rule number one of cover letters is…proofread. Proofread. Proofread. Oh, and then proofread it again. We don’t care if you’re writing the cover letter to end all cover letters. If you’re serious about a job you’re applying for…take the time to read your letter before you send it off. This includes making sure that not only are you spelling things correctly and that your grammar and punctuation is spot on, but that you’re also double checking the basics like the company name and the position you’re applying for.
- Lying about your past experiences or over inflating what you’ve done. Everyone’s allowed to brag a bit in their cover letter…as long as it’s true. Don’t lie to the company or yourself. If a company has nothing that appeals to you, you wouldn’t enjoy working there – and they’d rather not have you – so why bother applying?
- Talking about why you quit your last job. Remember, this is sort of like a blind date. Nobody wants to hear about your ex…and absolutely DO NOT TRASH YOUR PAST EMPLOYERS.
- Salary requirements. Save that for the interview.
- Getting too personal. The letter is a great way to introduce yourself, but remember…keep it about the position and keep it professional. The paragraph where you talk about the company can contain tidbits about you (I grew up watching the “Wonder Kids”) but don’t let it get too personal (After my alcoholic parents divorced and my father left the country to join the Amsterdam Travelling Cat and Flea Circus, the “Wonder Kids” were the only steady and constant positive in my life.) Save that for your therapist.
The Different Types of Cover Letters
As a job seeker, you need to be aware that there are different types of cover letters that align to the different ways jobs are posted and how you’re involved in the application process .
In most cases, the basic cover letter layout we went over earlier in this article can be used as a solid foundation for whatever you write…but we’re here to help you rise above the competition which means making that extra effort.
You’re the Perfect Candidate and that means ensuring that your cover letter is exactly right for whatever type of posting you come across.
So let’s take a look at what you might come across in your job-seeking travels.
Job Posting
A job posting is when an employer advertises an opening within their organization that they would like to fill.
This can be anything from a notice in a newspaper , to a posting on the company website .
Make sure you read the posting carefully and pay close attention to the description of the job.
This is when you will begin to start tailoring your cover letter!
Try to figure out exactly what Qualities (skills and abilities) the company values and make sure you highlight these in your cover letter.
As you go through the post, identify the key words and phrases that are used .
When you write your cover letter, make sure you use these keywords and phrases (but don’t just copy and paste the ad word for word).
As always, do your research beforehand and use that information to help tailor your letter and showcase how you would be a welcome addition to their team.
Application Cover Letter
For many entry level positions, the application process is fairly simple and straight forward.
You’ll go into wherever it is you want to work and ask for an application.
They’ll hand you a pre-printed form and you’ll sit down and fill it out before turning it back in.
Many job seekers who are applying for these types of positions will simply turn in their application after filling them out.
Submitting a well written cover letter along with your application will make you stand out to a prospective employer.
You’re showing them that you are willing to do the work to get the job and that can go a long way towards getting hired.
It’s also a great idea for individuals who are new to the job market and might not have prior employment history .
You always want to start out your letter with a personal salutation, so if possible, when picking up an application, ask for a few days to fill it out before returning it as well as the name of the individual who will be reviewing it.
While most employers are happy to let you take an application and bring it back later, there is always the possibility you will be asked to fill it out on the spot. For situations like this, always make sure you bring a copy (or two) of a pre-prepared cover letter and resume with you so you can hand them in all together .
Before heading out to pick up applications, make sure you have a few letters already typed up and pre-tailored to the locations you plan on applying to.
Yes, it means taking a bit more time at the beginning of your application process, but it will be well worth it and again demonstrates to the employer that you are invested in the position.
Online Application Cover Letter
Many companies these days utilize online job posting websites like Brass Ring and Monster to advertise available positions.
While this might seem like a convenience for you (hey, you can apply for jobs in your living room while wearing your pajamas all day!) it actually means your odds of getting an invitation to interview is going to be tougher than it would be if you were mailing in your information.
Why? Three little letters…ATS.
What’s ATS?
ATS , or Applicant Tracking System , is a computer based screening program used to filter applicants.
The program scans thousands of applications and quickly discards those that don’t fit the specific algorithm it’s been programmed with.
While that might sound like a great way to streamline the hiring process, it also means that whatever you submit has to be carefully crafted to ensure that it makes it through this robotic filter.
If not done properly, your submission could be discarded before ever being seen by a living human being…and we definitely don’t want that!
The first thing you want to do is wrap your head around the idea that you are going to first be facing a robot and that it’s been programmed to get rid of you. Okay, maybe not you specifically (we’ll save the Terminator analogies for another post) but certainly your application.
So how do you beat the bot? By thinking like one.
Start by reading the job description carefully.
Because the computer is going to be programmed to select only the candidates that perfectly match what the company is looking for, you need to make sure you are the right fit.
Re-read the posting until you clearly understand exactly what the company is looking for and that you are absolutely able to fill that spot with the skills , qualities , experience and education you have.
Tailoring your letter is something you should do for every position you apply for, but when it comes to online applications that are likely to be run through ATS, it’s absolutely vital.
You want to make sure that your cover letter is specific to the job you are applying for.
Clearly state the title you are applying for and verify that it matches the title in the posting .
Pay extra attention to the details of the position and the description of the job. Many of the key words the bot is programmed to respond to will be in there.
Use those same descriptions and key words in your cover letter and resume, but do it judiciously.
Try not to repeat them more than two times. Stuffing your letter with keywords might seem like an easy way to guarantee success, but it’s more likely to result in your application being flagged by the program and rejected .
Make sure to carefully check your letter for spelling and grammar errors.
This is a basic rule you should follow no matter what, but in this case, it’s even more crucial that your submission material is flaw free.
While a human can read a letter and usually figure out what you mean regardless of tiny problems or a misspelled word here or there, a bot is looking for exact matches…not “close enough.”
Keep this in mind when using acronyms as well. To avoid the risk of an acronym being rejected by the bot, use both the acronym as well as the spelled out words.
Ultimately you want your application to make it through ATS and into the hands of an actual human.
It’s a delicate balancing act between being specific enough to pass ATS and still engaging enough to catch the attention of the hiring manager. It’s tough, but it can be done!
Cold Call Cover Letter
A cold call cover letter is a letter you send out along with your resume to a company you want to work for that has NOT advertised any openings .
Generally this is something you do when you find a company that you really want to work for but they don’t have any openings that fit your skills or they’re not soliciting for applicants.
Applying for a job that doesn’t exist can be a risky venture, but it can also be a smart one.
If you’re the Perfect Candidate (and you are!) you could potentially gain early consideration for an opening that comes up down the road. Best case scenario, they think you’re so absolutely amazing that they find a job for you!
Keep in mind, you’re not the only person on this planet who has submitted a cold call cover letter and resume, and you’re asking a company for a job that doesn’t exist…which means you have to make sure beyond a shadow of a doubt that whatever you send in is absolutely perfect.
Remember, the company is NOT asking for people to submit to them , so you need to figure out what it is that you offer that makes you worth considering. What can you bring to the table that they don’t already have and why should they take the time to look at your materials?
The first step for cold contacting a company is doing your research.
Of course, as a student of The Interview Guys , you’re already well versed in the art of researching, but when it comes to a cold contact like this, you have to go above and beyond in your digging.
You want your cover letter to contain knowledge of specific current situations within the company and how you can help .
Just writing to a company and telling them how much you love them and want to work for them very rarely results in a job offer.
You’re more likely to get a thank you note and a package of free corporate bumper stickers than an offer of employment.
Open your letter with a solid salutation addressed to a specific individual.
Because this is a cold contact, it’s absolutely imperative that you address your letter to exactly the right person. You want to make sure that your information ends up with whoever is most likely to hire you.
Open your letter with a generic salutation and you run the risk of it being either immediately tossed or passed onto someone who can’t do anything with it except send you that package of corporate bumper stickers.
Make sure during your research that you determine exactly who should receive your information and address it to them.
The body of your letter is going to be critical to your success in this adventure. You want to make sure that you open with a paragraph so strong, so focused, so dynamic, that whoever is reading it can’t help but keep reading. You want the first paragraph your intended audience reads to hook their attention and draw them in, and this will come from your research.
Have you found something in your digging that indicates that the company has a need you can fill?
Are they preparing for an expansion and you know they’re going to need someone with your skills in the very near future?
Is there an aspect of their business that is lagging and you know you can help strengthen it?
** SIDE NOTE : Make sure you are careful when addressing a failure within a company, even if you are offering them a solution. You want them to see you as a viable answer to their problem, not an annoying upstart pointing out their flaws.
It’s a delicate balance, but we have faith in you!
Follow up your opening paragraph by expanding on your key strengths and skills and how you plan on using them to benefit your target company .
Try to include achievements and examples of how you’ve succeeded in the past and be prepared to back it up with proof should they reach out to you .
Another great way to help strengthen your chances of securing an interview (and possibly a job) is to mention any connections you have to the company.
Be sure you let whoever you are name dropping know that you’re doing this…you want to make sure if they get asked about you they have nothing but good things to say about you! It’s a good idea to put this information early in your letter. People are much more likely to read your letter if they see that you have a personal connection.
Close your letter out with options on how to move forward to the next step.
While your ultimate goal with your letter and resume is a job interview, you might not feel comfortable straight out asking for one in a cold call situation. Of course, if you are…more power to you…but if you feel that a softer approach is called for, try asking instead for information about their hiring practices, job fairs, a tour of the company or even for an informational interview .
What’s an informational interview?
An informational interview is one where you sit down with someone who works in a career or job you want to learn more about. You’ll learn about what they do, what skills they need to have in order to succeed in their position and what it’s like to work where they work.
It is NOT an interview for a job…but it could potentially lead to one down the road as whoever you are doing the interview with is now personally acquainted with you.
Remember, the key to success with a cold call cover letter depends on a number of factors including timing and how well you understand the company you are submitting to as well as how thorough your research is.
Recruiter’s Ad Cover Letter
Many companies these days have turned their entire employee hiring process over to executive search firms staffed by highly trained recruiters.
These recruiters might work with a number of companies (their clients) and are usually focused on a very specific category of job placement (e.g., engineers, paralegals, etc.).
The recruiters will often place ads which allows them to pull together large numbers of qualified job candidates.
Then they’ll go through those candidates and present the best of the best to their clients in the hopes that one of them (or more) will be hired.
To put it bluntly (and in keeping with our blind date analogy) recruiters are the matchmakers of the job world. The companies tell the recruiters who they are looking for and the recruiters go through the piles of candidates they have on hand and try to find the best fit.
When you respond to an ad placed by a recruiter and submit your cover letter and resume, you’re not usually submitting it for a specific job…rather you’re providing them with your information and skill set in the hopes that it matches up with a job assignment or opening they get from their corporate clients…and that means you have to take a totally different approach to how you write your cover letter.
Because a recruiter is looking for a specific set of skills to fill open positions , they will almost always start by first looking at your resume before ever looking at your cover letter.
Hang on, if they’re looking at my resume and ignoring my cover letter, then why even include one?
Don’t worry…your cover letter will get looked at…just not right away…which is why the information contained within it needs to be a little different than the information you would normally put into a cover letter.
If after reading your resume a recruiter decides you are a good fit for the position, they’ll turn to your cover letter for more information about you…and what they’re looking for is fairly specific .
A cover letter to a recruiter needs to quickly answer questions they might have about your eligibility and willingness to do the job they are pitching you for .
You want to use your cover letter to explain what you can do, what you are qualified to do, and what you require in order to accept the job if it’s offered to you.
Start your letter out with a personal salutation. You are essentially going to be represented by your recruiter so it’s a good idea to know who is passing your information around.
Your first paragraph should be a quick introduction into what you are and what you do. They need to know what you are currently doing and where you are doing it. You should also include in this section why you are looking for a new job and what you hope to get out of establishing a relationship with your recruiter.
The second paragraph should outline your skills and accomplishments as well as your background. This is the paragraph where you lay out exactly why you believe you would be an asset to the recruiter’s clients.
The third paragraph should cover the jobs and industries you are looking for employment in. It’s also the paragraph where you discuss your salary history as well as your current salary range requirements.
** SALARY SIDE NOTE : Normally with cover letters you do NOT want to include salary information. We’ll discuss this more in depth later on in this article, but for now, be aware, this is one of the few times when it’s not only acceptable, it’s necessary.
Make sure you also include whether or not you’d be willing to travel or relocate.
Finally, make sure you include your availability and when you would be able to start a new job if offered.
Recruiter Cold Call Cover Letter
Submitting a cold call cover letter and resume to a recruiter is a lot like submitting a cold call cover letter to a company; you’re reaching out to someone who is not soliciting for applicants in the hopes of being considered for a position that may or may not exist .
When we went over Recruiter Ad cover letters, we told you that the recruiters would look at your resume first and your cover letter second…which in that scenario is true.
In this scenario, where you are reaching out to them rather than responding to an ad or solicitation they’ve generated, they are absolutely going to look at your cover letter first…if for no reason other than to figure out who you are and why you’re contacting them.
The best way to ensure that your letter and information gets a serious look is by doing your research on the recruiter you are contacting ahead of time.
Recruiters are usually very specific about who they’re looking for and what they’re recruiting for, so it’s important that you contact someone who represents the field you are qualified to work in.
The first paragraph is where you introduce yourself. Let the recruiter know who you are and what you are/what you do. You also want to let them know what you would like to do and what sort of job you are looking for and why you are looking for a new job. Make sure you are specific and provide any details you think might help them in matching you with the right company should an opportunity arise.
The second paragraph should outline your skills and accomplishments as well as your background. This is the paragraph where you lay out exactly why you believe you would be an asset to the recruiter’s clients and should be included in their pile of potential pitches. It’s also the paragraph where you let the recruiter know clearly what type of work you are interested in, be it full time, part time, permanent or freelance. Make sure you decide ahead of time and stick with it. A recruiter needs to know your level of commitment to the jobs they are submitting you for.
The third paragraph is where you discuss your salary history as well as your current salary range requirements.
** SALARY SIDE NOTE PART DEUX : As we said above with Recruiter Ad Cover Letters, discussing your salary in a cover letter is normally not done. We’ll discuss this more in depth later on in this article, but for now, be aware, this is one of the few times when again it’s not only acceptable, it’s necessary.
Finally, make sure you include your availability and when you would be able to start a new job if offered.
With a recruiter cold call letter, you don’t normally include how you plan to follow up with them.
Recruiters are incredibly busy and are highly trained in what they do. Although you might be tempted to reach out to them, hold off. Bothering them isn’t going to get you anywhere.
If they see something in you that warrants their attention, they will reach out to you.
Direct Mail Campaign Cover Letter
A Direct Mail Campaign is where a job seeker sends out hundreds of letters and resumes to potential employers in the hopes of securing an interview or position.
Although similar to the Cold Call Cover Letter in that you are submitting to companies that aren’t currently advertising positions, it’s a much less focused process and involves you sending the same cover letter and resume out to everyone in the hopes that someone responds back.
When you do a Direct Mail Campaign Cover Letter, you want to avoid anything that would specifically apply to one company over another.
Because you’re sending this same letter out to multiple companies, you want to be general enough for it to apply broadly, but not so general that it works against you.
Your cover letter should start out by introducing the reader to who you are and what you do as well as what job you are seeking.
The next paragraphs should detail your skills and experience with the job you are seeking and why you are qualified to do it.
Finally, be sure to wrap your letter up with information on how the company can contact you if interested.
**A WORD OF CAUTION WITH DIRECT MAIL CAMPAIGNS: While it might seem like this method is more efficient than targeting and tailoring your information for specific companies and jobs, it can also work against you. Most hiring managers can quickly recognize a direct mail letter and will discard it as ‘spam.’
Referral Cover Letter
A Referral Cover Letter is one you send after someone who works with the company or has contacts within the industry refers you .
It is similar to any other company cover letter with the exception of the opening paragraph.
Make sure to introduce yourself and also mention the individual who referred you to the company or position.
If possible, include anything specific your contact has told you about the position or the person you are reaching out to .
Once you have finished your introductory paragraph, use the rest of your letter to discuss your skills , education , background , training … anything that will help to show that you are a good fit for the position .
Finally make sure you close your letter with your plans for following up with them and how they might contact you with any questions.
Blind Posting Cover Letter
A blind job posting is one in which a company posts a job opening but decides to remain anonymous.
A company might decide to blind post for a high profile position they don’t want to call attention to so as not to appear lacking in leadership.
Other times it’s meant to build excitement and mystery to help increase the number of applicants.
Submitting to a blind listing means tailoring your letter to the company is going to be difficult…but it doesn’t have to be impossible…and that extra bit of sleuthing can help really elevate your application above the rest of the entries.
A good place to start is by taking a closer look at the posting. Is there a fax number or email included? Sometimes you can get lucky, and with a bit of internet digging, trace those backwards to find out what company those are attached to . The same goes for a physical address or P.O. Box.
Look for key phrases as well.
Is the company referencing anything specific like “we have been ranked number one in employee retention and satisfaction for the past five years.”?
Type that phrase into your favorite search engine and see what pops up.
Of course, the goal of figuring out who the company is isn’t so you can reveal how smart you are in your letter…rather, it’s to help with your tailoring process.
Proving you’re a master detective could potentially backfire…especially if you’re wrong. Instead of bragging about your digging skills, use what you learn to help show why you’re a perfect fit for the job.
How do you address a cover letter for a blind posting?
Ideally you want to make sure your letter is personal and that means addressing it to a specific individual, but in a situation like this, you have to consider other options.
In the event you figure out exactly what company is hiring for…and there is absolutely NO DOUBT about their identity, then you could potentially go online, look at their website and see who is overseeing hiring…but we’re going to strongly caution you against this. Again…you could be wrong…or worse…look creepy and stalkerish.
This is one instance when using “Dear Hiring Manager” is perfectly acceptable.
Once you get this all done, it’s time to tackle the content of your letter. Again, because this is a blind posting, it’s going to be tough tailoring your information.
That means you have to pay extra close attention to exactly what the posting says.
Go over it carefully and pay attention to exactly what the company is looking for.
Make sure you highlight exactly how you fit what they’re looking for and include examples demonstrating your skills, knowledge and experience .
If the posting contains specific instructions, be sure to follow them to the absolute letter. This is a good thing to do no matter what, but in a blind posting, it can be the make or break.
In a normal job posting where you know who you are applying to, your closing paragraph should always include how you plan on following up with the company.
Unfortunately with blind job postings, that’s not possible. Regardless, you want to make sure your final paragraph is strong and lets the hiring manager (whoever they are) know that you are looking forward to the possibility of discussing the position in greater detail at an in person interview.
Internship Cover Letter
An internship is a great way to get your foot in the door and learn more about a company/career you are thinking of pursuing.
Just because it’s an internship and not an actual job doesn’t mean you shouldn’t treat it just as seriously.
Make sure when you’re addressing your letter that you’re sending it to the right individual. Many times with internships they’re facilitated by the educational institution you’re attending and will provide you with specific contact information.
If you are securing your own internship and not receiving university assistance with the process, make sure you do your research ahead of time and find out who will be reading your letter.
Start out your letter by clearly stating your intent to secure an internship so there is no confusion and your letter ends up in the wrong pile…or worse, the trash.
Always include your educational background information ; what you’re studying and where .
As you continue into the body of your letter, don’t allow yourself to be intimidated by your lack of “work” experience. When applying for an internship, it’s okay to have less experience than someone who is employed in the field you are entering. In fact, it’s expected!
An internship is an opportunity to learn. Including a paragraph about what you hope to take away from this internship and how it will help you achieve your long term goals is a great way to show enthusiasm and set you apart from the crowd .
No Prior Work Experience Cover Letter
If you’re just entering the job market or a recent graduate, it can be intimidating writing cover letters without any experience.
Not to worry!
It’s still absolutely essential to send out a cover letter…we just have to tailor it a bit differently.
Writing a cover letter for an entry level position, or to a job you have no experience in is very similar to the letter you would write as an intern. It’s perfectly fine to highlight your non-employment related experiences… if they are relevant to the job.
For recent graduates, make sure to include where you went to school and how what you’ve studied relates directly to the job you are applying for .
Volunteer experiences , internships , related classes , projects , leadership experiences , extracurricular activities and your skills that pertain to the position you’re applying for all can and should be mentioned in your cover letter .
A lack of experience doesn’t mean you’re allowed to have a lack of knowledge about what you’re applying for and the company you’re applying to.
That means you still have to do your research!
Make sure you know everything you can about the company . Visit their website . Read their blog . Get inside their corporate heads and figure out how you and what you bring are the perfect fit !
If the job posting has buzzwords, be sure to include those in your letter and make sure they relate to the skills you’ve got.
Finally, as with any and all cover letters, be honest, be succinct, be professional.
Check out our new blog post that covers 12 great cover letter examples!
Let’s Talk About Salary, Baby
As promised, we’re going to quickly discuss if and when you should bring up salary requirements in your cover letters.
Generally you DO NOT and SHOULD NOT include this information in your cover letters (with the exception of the two Recruiter specific letters we discussed above).
If an employer does not require you to include any salary information (including history, requirement or range) then don’t put it in there.
There is a time and a place for the salary discussion and we cover that in our article “ How To Negotiate Salary During The Interview Process. ”
If an employer asks you for your salary information but doesn’t require it, hold off on passing that information on until it becomes an actual requirement.
But what do you do if an employer says you must include this information in order to apply?
One way to tackle this tricky subject is to give a salary range. Make sure you do your research ahead of time to determine what your job is worth and be sure to make your range realistic. Also make sure that you are able to be flexible within that range should your employer decide to negotiate.
Another way to answer this question is to state that your requirements are negotiable and that you are willing to factor in things like benefits and the actual position itself.
No matter what you put down, be sure to state clearly that your salary requirements are flexible and open to discussion. The last thing you want to do is lock yourself into a rate that is so high you lose the job or so low you find yourself being offered far less than what you’re worth .
Keep in mind that although most employers have a salary range for a position already figured out before you even walk through the door, it’s not set in stone. If you are the Perfect Candidate (and you are!) a good employer will figure out how to pay more for you if they feel that will get you to accept the job…
This won’t happen, however, if you lock yourself into a number too early in the game.
So why is it okay to tell a recruiter my salary history and range but not a potential employer?
When you give an employer salary information, you are limiting your ability to negotiate. Without the ability to negotiate, you run the risk of being offered or accepting a job for less than you deserve.
A recruiter, however, needs to know your salary information so they can use that information when pitching you for jobs to their clients.
A recruiter is paid only after they fill a position for a client, and that fee is covered by the client themselves.
Usually that fee amounts to a percentage of whatever the first year’s compensation for the new employee ends up being which means it’s in the recruiter’s best interest to try to get you as high a rate as possible.
Recruiters also need to know this information so they can avoid pitching you for jobs that are lower than your range .
It doesn’t do them any good to have an employer offer to hire you and have you turn it down because you aren’t happy with the salary.
However, to prevent yourself from being locked into a situation where you are again faced with being offered too little or asking for too much, keep your answers in range form and base those numbers off of real world examples and your research.
Cover Letter Samples
Ok, so we’ve basically covered everything you could ever need to know about cover letters. But I know what you might be thinking…
“Can I get a cover letter sample or two please Mike? I’m basically an expert now but it would be much easier if I could just start with a cover letter template.”
Look, we covered a ton of stuff in this article so I don’t blame you. So what we decided to do is enlist the help of our friends over at vault.com who have a treasure trove full of great cover letter samples that you can use as a guideline for your own letter.
But here’s the deal. Hiring managers are smart AND have access to these websites as well, so you don’t want to simply choose a sample cover letter and then just completely rip it off. Take the time to make it your own, because it will pay off in the long run.
Copying a cover letter example word for word will only make you sound like someone other than yourself, and that is not what we are trying to do here!
Ok so Vault separates their cover letter templates into four distinct categories, so go ahead and click the link below that applies to your situation the most:
Cold Call Cover Letters
Direct mail cover letters, response to ad cover letters, referral letters.
Those four categories above should give you enough examples of cover letters to get you prepared for writing your own!
If after sending your cover letter and your resume you don’t hear from the company within a couple of days, a quick “wanted to be sure you had received my application” email is an entirely appropriate follow-up, even without telling them that you will be following up first.
If you do end up needing to write a thank you note , you absolutely should slip in a line like “ I really think my (skills and talents that are relevant to the job) would be great for (the company), and want to make sure my application didn’t get lost or submitted incorrectly. ”
You can also throw in something again about why you want to work at that company – mention some company values or exciting projects to show that you’ve done your research and are really interested in them specifically.
And don’t forget to study as many cover letter examples as you can! Especially the cover letter example that we laid out for you in detail in this article.
So there you have it! How To Write a Cover Letter 101 .
By following what we’ve laid out here for you, your cover letter is going to be a single paged professional introduction aimed at getting you in the door and on your way to an interview .
By using our tailoring method and infusing the body of your letter with keywords and the qualities the employer is looking for, you’ll be positioning yourself for a spot at the top of their list of potential candidates.
Just remember, dating analogies aside, it’s probably a good idea to leave the flowers and chocolates at home.
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Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.
His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.
Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .
About The Author
Mike simpson.
Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .
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How to Write a Cover Letter That Sounds Like You (and Gets Noticed)
- Elainy Mata
Do the research, start off strong, and emphasize your value.
- EM Elainy Mata is a Multimedia Producer at Harvard Business Review. ElainyMata
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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.
![→ Click here to access 5 free cover letter templates [Free Download]](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/53/3f347702-d7e9-4e59-9fe4-be4cd7bad191.png "write an effective cover letter")
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.
.png "write an effective 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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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’s on a cover letter, what makes a great cover letter.
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
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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Writing an Effective Cover Letter: The Ultimate Guide
Picture this. You’ve just found an excellent job opening that meets all of your requirements— competitive salary, great benefits, and the ability to work on exciting projects. This has been your dream, and you know you have the qualifications. But, after reading further, you are asked to submit a resume and a cover letter.
Many people skip over the idea of writing a cover letter because they can be difficult to write, especially if you’re applying for your first job. This is a mistake! In fact, your cover letter is one of the most important parts of the hiring process and should be written to the best of your ability.
Find your bootcamp match
In this guide, we’re going to explore how you can write an effective cover letter which you can use to apply for any position in tech.
Why Are Cover Letters Important?
Your cover letter is one of the first impressions you will make on a company. Even if you already have a recommendation from a current employee, there will be people in the company who will read your resume and cover letter before you proceed to the next stage of the hiring process. And to those people, these documents will be their first impression. You know what people say, “first impressions stick.”
When you reach out to a company, you want to tell them a story about yourself and how you’re going to help them meet their goals. Your resume will outline your skills and past experience, sure, but your cover letter will back up what you’ve said in your resume and give you the opportunity to explore your interest in a certain position with more depth.
Most importantly, your cover letter, which can take many formats, can be highly personalized for each company. This is a chance for you to tell them your story.
What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?
The cover letter is still an expected attachment to a resume and serves as the first impression a candidate will make on a potential employer. Your cover letter gives you the opportunity to talk about why you’re interested in the position and how you would uniquely contribute to the organization. Everyone may use the same format for their resume—listing their skills, qualifications, and more—but in the cover letter, you can get more creative. You can talk about why you’re excited about the company and craft a convincing pitch that will make them want to talk with you again.
Over the last few years, there has been a perception that cover letters are no longer relevant. If you have a Twitter profile and a presence on LinkedIn or AngelList, why should you have a cover letter? Well, the truth is that employers still value a cover letter. If you don’t include a cover letter, a potential employer may pass on you before they get the chance to read about your skills in greater depth.
Your cover letter tells employers that you’re applying for a certain position. You may be able to get away with using the same resume for multiple jobs, but the cover letter should be unique to each position and company. You want to convince the company why you are the best person for their team. And you want to tell them why you want to work with their company more than any other. The more detailed you are, the better the impression you can leave on hiring managers and recruiters.
How to Format a Cover Letter
Before we get started on the contents of a cover letter, it’s important to understand how you should format the document. Here are a few tips on how to format your cover letter:
- Use single line spacing for all text
- Use double-space between each section
- Include a one-inch margin on all sides
- Align everything to the left side
- Choose an easy-to-read font
How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?
Your cover letter—like a resume—should only be a single page long. The best cover letters are short, concise, and ideally under 300 words . You’ll only have the attention of a recruiter for a minute or two at best, and you want to impress them as soon as possible.
What to Say in a Cover Letter
Your cover letter should be all about the position you’re applying to and the company itself . Before you get started writing a cover letter, you should make sure you are aware of the needs of the company and their expectations for a candidate in the position.
By doing some research in advance, you’ll find it easier to adapt your cover letter to the specific position you’re applying to. Recruiters will always value a personalized cover letter over one which includes generic text about why a candidate is “good.”
When doing research for your cover letter, consider the following questions:
- Why is the company hiring someone new?
Does the company have an always-open application so they can hire the best talent? Do they need more people to help them scale? When it comes time to writing your cover letter, make sure you keep these things in mind. If the company is scaling quickly, you may want to talk about how you have experience in fast-paced work environments, for example.
- What skills do they expect a new candidate to have?
What are they looking for in a new candidate? Do they need someone with skills in a particular technology? Do they need someone ambitious who can help them bring their ideas into reality? Answers to these questions are difficult to ascertain before actually talking with someone in the company, but you can’t write a cover letter without knowing what they expect.
Spend some time reading through the job description and take notes on what skills they expect applicants to have. Also, read over any materials on the company’s website such as their “about” page and their vision statement so you can learn more about their expectations and long-term goals. Doing this research will show companies you know what they’re all about, thereby indicating you’re passionate about a particular position.
How to Write a Cover Letter
Cover letters can be difficult to write because you need to write a new one for each position you’re applying to. However, there are a few tips you should keep in mind which will help optimize your cover letter writing process.
Expand on Your Resume
In your cover letter, you should go beyond your resume. It can be tempting to simply reiterate what you have said in your resume in more depth. But you shouldn’t repeat yourself in your cover letter. Instead, you should use your cover letter as an opportunity to discuss your experience in more depth . Write a sentence or two about how a past position helped you refine a specific skill that the employer is looking for. Customize the letter to show you have the requisite skills for the position. If you’re not sure where to start, you may want to ask yourself these questions:
- How did you tackle one of the responsibilities you had in a past position?
- How did you accomplish a specific milestone you mentioned on your resume?
Main Components of a Successful Cover Letter
Now, let’s get to the cover letter itself. There are three main parts in a cover letter:
- The Introduction
Let’s break these down and explore each component in more depth.
- Cover Letter Introduction
The first few sentences in your cover letter are key. If you include some generic and bold assertions about your skills, the recruiter may get bored and move on to the next candidate. But if you make your introduction impressive, they will want to read on further.
Your introduction should start with “Dear, [hiring manager name].” Make sure you include the name of the hiring manager or recruiter who is hiring for the position. If the company has a relaxed office culture, you only need to use their first name; if the employer is more traditional, use their first and last name.
The first paragraph should tell the company why you want to work with them . There are two things you could say in this paragraph—you believe in the company’s mission, and you want to work on the problems they are solving or, you want to work with their team. You should mention one of these facts and give a specific reason why. You’re interested in helping the company solve problems? Now you need to tell them why.
Giving a specific reason shows the company you’ve tailored your cover letter to them and done some research about their company. Saying that you have applied because a friend told you about the company or because you saw a job opening sounds like you haven’t thought about the company in any depth—you just applied. When a company feels you are passionate about their vision or their team, they are more likely to reach out to you. They are always going to hire the person who wants to work for the company more than the person who would accept any job. Even subtle personal touches will go a long way in a cover letter.
- Cover Letter Body
You’ve written a great introduction, and you now have the attention of the recruiter. What’s next? You have to tell them your story. The main body will be what a recruiter uses to help them decide whether to schedule an interview or file your application away.
The main body should be around three sentences —even if you are applying for junior or senior positions in tech. The goal of telling this story is to convince the company you meet all of their specifications. Tell the company about your knowledge of the technologies they are using or your past experience with a certain process they mentioned in the job listing. Whatever it is, make sure you tell them how you can help solve their problems better than everyone else . And always provide specific examples .
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
Let’s say the company is looking for a front end web developer who can help them speed up their app. You could say, “In my one-year tenure as an intern at Google, I used React.js to improve the speed of an internal landing page by 50ms.”
Specific, concise, and easy to understand.
In this section, you should be sure to make links between your qualifications and the specific requirements for a position . Mention how your skills meet the requirements of a company. You should also be sure to keep your paragraphs short. If you are writing three sentences, you may split those up into two paragraphs. This will make it easier for the recruiter to read your cover letter and understand the most important information. The more personalized your cover letter is, the more an employer will feel that you’re passionate about the company and its vision.
If you’re struggling to figure out how to talk about your past experience, there are a few questions you should keep in mind. These questions will ensure you know how to articulate your past experience and present it as effectively as possible to a future employer. Ask yourself:
- What projects did I work on?
- How many users did my project have?
- What big milestones did I achieve?
- What use cases did I have to take into account?
- What tools (i.e. GitHub, Confluence, CircleCI) and methodologies (i.e. Agile) did I use to work on this project?
You should end up with something like, “I was a core team member building X and leveraged tools such as CircleCI to create a new continuous integration process, which helped cut down our deployment time by 30%.”
- Cover Letter Close
The hiring manager is reading your cover letter. They are getting more interested in reaching out to you for an interview. Now, you need to close your cover letter effectively.
The first thing you should mention in your closing lines is a call to action: a specific statement that tells employers how they can reach out to you . You may decide to say, “If you are interested in talking with me further about how I can help Microsoft boost the efficiency of their Azure platform, reach out to me at [email address].” Again, this is specific, concise, and actionable.
Then you want to close with “sincerely” or “kind regards” and sign the letter with your full name . Optionally, you can include a phone number or another contact information below your name. After you’ve done that, your cover letter will be complete. You do not need to make your close complicated—it should be simple and tell hiring managers how to reach out to you in only a few words.
Example of a Cover Letter
Here is an example of a cover letter that uses the above format. The letter states why a candidate wants to work for the company and gives them a specific example of how this candidate can help them achieve their goals. The letter is simple, concise, and actionable.
30 October 2019
Stephanie M. Anager
Hiring Manager
Career Karma
San Francisco, CA 94107
Dear James,
I used Career Karma to help choose a coding bootcamp when I was learning to code, and I recently learned about your new bootcamp directory. It got me thinking that I want to help others find the right educational opportunities for them, just like you did for me. I would like to apply for the position of junior full stack engineer at your company.
At my previous job, I started off as a junior web developer and I learned how to build efficient web applications using JavaScript and the React.js framework. I spent time working with the development team analyzing inefficiencies in our application, and made numerous changes to make our pages render quicker. If I were to join your team, I would be able to help you make your website more efficient, and help you scale the site as you gain more traffic.
If you would like to talk with me further about how I can help you improve your web application, reach out to me at [email protected].
Kind regards,
Candidate N. Ame
What Not to Include in a Cover Letter
The purpose of a cover letter is to tell your story to a prospective employer. You can tell them about yourself, your history, your knowledge, and more. Your cover letter gives you an opportunity to show an employer why you are a good candidate for a position and why they should hire you.
But many people feel compelled to include more information than they need to. Your cover letter should be short, to-the-point, and focused on how you can help a company achieve its goals. You don’t need to include every detail about your employment history. Keeping your cover letters short will make it easy if you apply for multiple positions and need to write many different letters.
Your cover letter should be formatted correctly and should be free of any spelling or grammar errors , as it will also implicitly showcase your writing and communication skills. If your cover letter includes obvious grammatical errors, an employer may question how much attention you pay to detail—a critical component of most jobs in tech.
Here are a few things you should avoid doing in a cover letter:
- Making assertions which are not true. Employers will check the facts of a cover letter if they proceed with the interview process. Make sure your cover letter is truthful and accurately represents your skills. There are many people who have exaggerated their skills in a cover letter but were unable to meet the requirements when it came time for the interview.
- Information not related to the job. Don’t include anything which is not directly related to the position for which you are applying. You only have a few hundred words to use when writing your cover letter—use them all effectively.
- What you want. Don’t mention what you want to get out of the company. You should be pitching how you can help the company, not how they can help you.
- Expressing too much interest in the job. Companies want to know you are interested in them. But talking too much about how you like the company may cause you to lose leverage when it comes time to negotiate a salary. You are pitching yourself and your abilities, not how much you like a company. Tell the company why you’re applying, but don’t go into too much depth about how you like X, Y, and Z about them.
- Discussing the skills you don’t have. If a company posts a position looking for writing experience, don’t say something like, “Although I have a short track record of writing experience… [insert other unrelated claims]…” Keep your cover letter focused on what you can do. You are not expected to meet every requirement listed in a job description.
Tips for Writing a Great Cover Letter
Here are a few tips on how you can write a wonderful cover letter:
1. Personalize, Personalize, Personalize.
The main thing you should remember about this guide is that your cover letter should be personalized. It should be tailored to one specific company and one position . It’s easy to tell if a cover letter has been reused multiple times—they include generic statements, and the author doesn’t talk about why they want to work for a specific company.
If you want to save time, you should consider making a template cover letter. You can then make a few changes for each company before you send the cover letter out. For example, you can keep your close and some of your main body the same; the main thing you would change is why you want to work for each company. This saves time while still allowing you to maintain a professional tone.
2. Include Some Statistics
Hiring managers like to see stats. Numbers show that you’ve had a quantifiable impact on an organization you’ve worked for in the past. For example, if you’re a front end developer, you could talk about how you improved the render speed of pages. Similarly, if you’re a DevOps developer, you could talk about how many servers you maintained in a cluster. Statistics are not necessary, but they do help illustrate how much of an impact you have made in the past.
3. Show Personality
Your cover letter should be yours . The resume you wrote will include lists of facts about you and your history. But your cover letter should be more free-flowing and showcase your human side to hiring managers.
Spend time researching the company’s culture, and try to adopt a similar tone in your cover letter. And, before you send it, read your cover letter aloud and remove anything which doesn’t sound like how you would speak.
4. Keep It Short and Simple
Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule. But your cover letter should be as short as possible . In one survey, more than two-thirds of employers said they prefer a cover letter that is half a page or, “the shorter the better”. The more wordy your writing is, the more difficult it will be for the hiring manager to take away the key points.
5. Review and Edit
As we mentioned earlier, you should run a spell check of your cover letter before you submit it. But don’t mistake a spell check for editing . Spend some time after you’ve written your cover letter to read it over and evaluate whether any changes need to be made. After a few reviews, you’ll most likely notice a few things you want to change or improve.
You can also reach out to a friend or family member and ask them to review your cover letter and make any suggestions for how you can improve the letter. Consider asking them, “Does this letter accurately showcase my skills?” and “Does this letter get you excited about me?” to make sure you have covered all your bases.
If you need some additional assistance, you can use tools such as Hemingway to help improve the tone of your work. Hemingway will highlight sentences that are too wordy and difficult to read, use passive voice, or use complex vocabulary when a simpler term would suffice.
6. Highlight Your Technical Skills
If you’re applying for a software development position, you should make sure you highlight your technical skills explicitly. Prospective employers will look at a cover letter for only a few seconds, or they may even have it parsed through an Automated Tracking System. Thus, you should spend time talking about the specific technical skills you’ve acquired so a recruiter can easily find out whether you have the skills you need to be a good fit for the job.
Mention any specific technologies you know and one major goal you met using that technology. For example, you could say, “At my previous job, I used Ruby on Rails and GraphQL to move from a REST-based architecture to GraphQL, which we found to be more efficient based on our business needs.”
In this example, the candidate has spoken about how they know Ruby on Rails (a programming language), GraphQL (a data architecture tool), and how they have a good knowledge of REST (an API structure). If an employer is hiring someone who has these skills, this statement will really make the candidate stand out ahead of everyone else.
7. Use Action Words
When you’re writing a cover letter, you should avoid using “buzzwords” or talking about specific skills that are not fully relevant to the job. Instead, you should use action words that showcase your involvement with particular projects. If you are a software developer, you may feel tempted to use words like “coded” or “developed” a few times in your cover letter because you have created a lot of applications. But you should try to introduce some variety into your cover letter.
Here are a few examples of action words you can use in your cover letter:
- “I was a key collaborator on a tight-knit team…”
- “Helped our team meet the project goal…”
- “Created a new system to…”
- “I managed a team of…”
- “I helped create a new process…”
You should also try to include results-oriented words in your cover letter. These words help show that you have experience in yielding good outputs from your work and will show the extent of your responsibilities in your past experience.
A few words you may want to consider using include: redesigned, updated, implemented, produced, increased, streamlined, reduced .
Hopefully you now understand that writing a good cover letter is not too difficult and that cover letters are a great way for you to showcase your skills to employers. If you follow these guidelines on how to write a cover letter, you’ll be more likely to land a technical interview for your dream job.
In brief, here are our main rules on how to write a good cover letter:
- Research the company, their culture, and read the job description thoroughly
- Introduce yourself by talking about why you want to work for the company
- Show the company how your past experience will help you be an effective contributor
- End with a call to action and a professional close
- Review your cover letter to make sure you do not include anything unnecessary
- Do a final review of your cover letter and send it to some friends to get feedback
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .
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How to write an effective cover letter (with samples)
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You will have to prepare a number of materials for employers while looking for a job. One type of document is the cover letter, which is included with your resume when requesting a job interview. An effective cover letter is directed towards a specific position or company, and describes examples from your experience that highlight your skills related to the role.
You want to convince the reader that your interest in the job and company are genuine and specific. You also want to demonstrate ways that your experience has prepared you for the role by sharing a few brief stories that highlight your qualifications. This takes time and research; use the job description and the company’s web site or LinkedIn page to identify traits and skills the company values.
Cover letter structure and format
A cover letter should be no longer than one page with a font size between 10-12 points. Be sure to include your contact information and address it directly to the hiring manager, using their name. If you are not sure who to address the letter to, write “Dear Hiring Manager.” If the role you are applying for has a reference number or code, be sure to include it in your letter so that human resources is able to accurately track your application. The reference code is usually included
Cover letters typically take the following structure:
Introduction (1st paragraph)
- State clearly in your opening sentence the purpose for your letter and a brief professional introduction.
- Specify why you are interested in that specific position and organization.
- Provide an overview of the main strengths and skills you will bring to the role.
Example : I am a second year master’s student in MIT’s Technology and Policy Program (TPP) writing to apply for a consulting position in Navigant’s Emerging Technology & Business Strategy group. After speaking with John Smith at the MIT career fair, I realized that Navigant’s values of excellence, continuous development, entrepreneurial spirit, and integrity align with the principles that guide me every day and that have driven me throughout my career. Moreover, I believe that my knowledge of the energy sector, passion for data analysis, polished communication skills, and four years of consulting experience will enable me to deliver superior value for Navigant’s clients.
Body (2-3 paragraphs)
- Cite a couple of examples from your experience that support your ability to be successful in the position or organization.
- Try not to simply repeat your resume in paragraph form, complement your resume by offering a little more detail about key experiences.
- Discuss what skills you have developed and connect these back to the target role.
Example : As a graduate student in MIT’s Technology and Policy Program, I spend every day at the cutting edge of the energy sector. In my capacity as an MIT Energy Initiative research assistant, I use statistical analysis to investigate trends in public acceptance and regulation related to emerging energy technologies. Graduate classes in data science, energy economics, energy ventures and strategy, and technology policy have prepared me to help Navigant offer the expert services that set it apart from competitors. Furthermore, I will bring Navigant the same leadership skills that I used as the student leader for the MIT Energy Conference’s Technology Commercialization round-table, and as the mentorship manager for the MIT Clean Energy Prize.
Even before MIT, my four years of work experience in consulting—first at LMN Research Group and then at XYZ Consulting—allowed me to develop the skillset that Navigant looks for in candidates. As a science writer and policy analyst at LMN Research Group, I developed superb technical writing and visual communication skills, as well as an ability to communicate and collaborate with clients at federal agencies such as EPA and DOE. As a research analyst at XYZ Consulting, I developed an in-depth understanding of data analysis, program evaluation, and policy design.
Closing (last paragraph)
- Restate succinctly your interest in the role and why you are a good candidate.
- Thank the reader for their time and consideration.
Example : I take pride in my skills and experience in several domains: critical thinking and analysis, communication, and leadership. I note that Navigant values these same ideals, and I very much hope to use my abilities in service of the firm and its clients. Thank you for your time and consideration, I look forward to speaking with you further about my qualifications.
Additional cover letter tips
- Be sure that each cover letter is specifically tailored to the company you are writing to. Research the company to help you determine your approach. Check the company’s website and other resources online. You can also use MIT’s extensive alumni network through the Alumni Advisors Hub to seek first-hand knowledge, advice, and insight about the company.
- Are you seeking a position in a field or industry that does not have an obvious parallel or connection to your academic training? Be explicit about why you are interested in that particular field, organization or job, and what value you bring. For example, if you are an electrical engineer applying to a finance or consulting position, highlight your quantitative skills and ability to problem-solve.
- If you are applying for a summer job or internship and do not yet have any experience that is directly related to the position, focus on transferable skills that will add value to the role – leadership, communication, problem-solving, project management, etc.
- Lastly, cover letters are a chance to demonstrate the communication skills necessary to most jobs. Careful composing and revision are essential. To put your best foot forward and ensure your cover letter will be effective, schedule an appointment with a CAPD career advisor.
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How To Write A Job-Winning Cover Letter [Free Templates & Examples]
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Writing a cover letter can be one of the most stress inducing aspects of the job search.
The reason writing them is so difficult is because we don't have a defined framework to follow.
If you need to update your resume, you download a template and fill in the blanks. When you're applying to jobs, the employer lays out the fields you need to complete right there in the application.
But when you're writing a cover letter, you probably find yourself staring at a blank Word document wishing the right words would will themselves onto the page.
Most of us don't consider ourselves to be the next Walter Isaacson , and the task of crafting the perfect story sits well outside of our comfort zone. It doesn't help that most of the advice out there on the subject is vague at best.
And that's exactly why I wrote this post! My hope is that this guide will be the last (and only) cover letter article you'll ever need to read. We're going to take a deep dive into:
- How To Write A Cover Letter That Actually Gets Results
The 7 Cover Letter Mistakes That Cost People Jobs
- The Anatomy of a Highly Effective Cover Letter
- Nailing Your Cover Letter Format: Aesthetics, Structure, Style, & File Type
- Cover Letter Templates & Real Examples From Microsoft, Google, & More
Ready to rock and roll? Let's dive in:
Writing A Cover Letter That Actually Gets You Hired
I did a quick Google search for “How To Write A Cover Letter,” and here are a few things that the “experts” recommend:
- Assess the employer's needs and your skills. Then try to match them in the letter in a way that will appeal to the employer's self-interest.
- Arrange the points in a logical sequence; organize each paragraph around a main point.
- Basic fonts like Arial, Calibri, Georgia, Verdana, and Times New Roman work well. A font size of 10 or 12 points is easy to read. Standard margins are 1” on the top, bottom, and left and right sides of the page.
- Be sure to include positive traits like “Focused,” “Hard Working,” and “Results Oriented”
While all of this advice is technically correct, did you feel your confidence skyrocket when you went back to type out that first sentence?
Yeah, me neither…
Here's the thing – most career “experts” out there give vague advice that they've seen work in their corner of the market. It doesn't get too specific because many career coaches (even recruiters) have never been through the application process at a world class company. They don't know the nitty gritty.
When they do give specific advice, it's usually tailored to a niche – software development, tech sales, finance, etc. But what works for one person in one industry or role might not work for a similar person in a different situation.
I'm hoping to change things with this article.
Over the course of this post, I'm going to lay out the cover letter strategies that thousands of my clients have used to land jobs across industries and at companies like Apple, Amazon, Google, Facebook, Microsoft, Deloitte, ESPN, American Express, and more.
The Truth About Cover Letters (Does Anyone Read Them?)
Before we dive into the actionable stuff, I want to provide some context on where cover letters fit in the hiring process.
Cover letters are a strange animal. People seem to think that they are the missing link that will suddenly skyrocket the response rates of potential employers.
When I asked my audience to choose between a guide on cover letters, resumes or LinkedIn profiles, cover letters won out by a significant margin.
The truth is, in the mind of a recruiter/hiring manager, your cover letter is a tie breaker that is only read after the rest of your application has been reviewed. 74% of recruiters don't even read cover letters. However, over half of employers noted that they prefer candidates who submit a cover letter:
This leaves us in an interesting place.
We need to craft a good cover letter to help boost our chances, but we don't want to spend several hours doing so because there are far better ways to spend our time to get results during the job search. If you follow the networking and value-add strategies in my other articles , those strategies are going to be far more effective at breaking ties than an 8.5 x 11″ sheet of paper.
My hope is that this guide will give you a framework that enables you to efficiently craft cover letters that are more likely to get you hired.
If we want our cover letter to be as effective as possible we need to make sure we avoid the mistakes that employers hate to see, yet most people still make.
In order to be as accurate as possible, I went out and spoke to recruiters from Google, Microsoft, and a few Wall Street firms on top of my own research. Then I cross referenced that information with the several hundred cover letters that have come across my desk at Cultivated Culture.
After all was said and done, here are the 7 most common mistakes people make on cover letters that will cause recruiters to throw out their application:
#1: Typos, Grammatical Errors, And General Sloppiness
This is the most obvious and most common issue. 80% of recruiters noted that they would automatically toss a cover letter with some type of spelling or grammatical error. The good news is that it's also the easiest mistake to fix.
Before you submit your cover letter, make sure it's reviewed by at least two other parties. You might want to consider hiring a professional editor/proofreader as they're not too expensive for a short document and they will pick up on things most people would miss. It's easy enough to find one on Upwork .
Another trick you can use is including an obvious mistake about 75% of the way through. If you have “catching Bustin Jeiber's sweaty t shirt at a concert” sitting in there and someone doesn't call you out, you know they probably didn't read it very carefully.
#2: Going Over A Single Page
The vast majority of the resumes and cover letters I receive are over a single page. Funnily enough, the vast majority of the recruiters I speak to also tell me that they absolutely hate resumes and cover letters that are more than one page.
The ideal length for a cover letter is one page. Changing the margins, font, and font size are all fair game – just keep things on one page, capisce?
#3: Regurgitating Your Resume In A Slightly Different Format
Your cover letter is a space for you to truly differentiate yourself. If you're just taking the bullets on your resume and turning them into full sentences, you're missing out on a HUGE opportunity.
Use the cover letter to show a little personality and share something that people wouldn't know if they just scanned through your resume (more on that in a sec).
Remember, this is a tie breaker. If your cover letter isn't holding people's attention it's probably going to lose out.
#4: Focusing On Training Or Arbitrary Credentials Instead Of Results
Many of us feel unqualified for the jobs we want. As a result, we try to twist our experience to match the traditional qualifications for our target role.
The problem with this approach is that you are competing against people who qualify for the traditional credentials, no matter what role you're applying for. If you try to beat them at their own game, you're going to lose 9 times out of 10.
Am I saying you should forget about trying to spin your experience to position yourself well? Absolutely not. However, adding that business class on your resume when you're 4-5 years out of college isn't going to help much.
Instead, focus your time outside of work on building tangible results that you can showcase in your cover letter (and resume). If you want to be a developer, take a few coding courses and build something cool. If you want to be in digital marketing, land a few clients and run their ads for them.
Telling a story about how you took proactive steps to build experience in a field will beat traditional credentials in most cases. Companies love to see that you're hungry to learn.
#5: Not Addressing Your Cover Letter To An Actual Person
I die a little bit inside when I see cover letters addressed as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
Anyone who reads that is immediately going to mentally bucket it as impersonal. It's far better to address your cover letter to an actual human, even if it doesn't end up in their hands. Here is my strategy.
Let's say I'm applying for an Account Manager role at Google:
I'm going to head over to LinkedIn and start by working to find the specific person who would manage the role I'm applying for. If I can't find them, or I'm unsure, then I'll aim for the most senior person that my target role would fall under.
The ladder for Account Managers typically follows with Senior Account Manager, Account Director, and VP. I'm going plug in “Account Director” under LinkedIn's title filter to cover all of the bases there. Then I'm going to add “Google” in the company filter and “Greater New York Area” in the location filter:
That search is going to bring up a slew of people that I could address directly in my cover letter:
Regardless of who reads your cover letter, they'll know that you did your research. On top of that, your cover letter might even make it into the hands of the person you addressed it to!
#6: Failing To Showcase Any Personality
As mentioned earlier, your cover letter is one of the few opportunities for you to truly differentiate yourself from the competition. If you're applying for jobs online (which I don't recommend), the only thing you have to sell yourself is your resume, your cover letter, and your application.
Instead of rehashing the experience on your resume, tell a story about how you got that experience. Make it unique and personable. I had the most success when I talked about how I transitioned from a job in medicine to the tech world by starting a side business generating leads for real estate agents. I'd speak openly about the challenges I faced, the mistakes I made, and why I went through it all in the first place.
Use this space to tell your story. Remember, people don't buy what you do – they buy you why you do it.
#7: Writing About An Uncomfortable Situation
While we're on the topic of telling stories, there is one thing you want to avoid – talking about something extremely uncomfortable. What might have worked for your college essay isn't going to work here.
You want to keep things professional. It's okay to talk about business-related mistakes and challenges, but try to steer away from deeply personal stories. They are far more likely to hurt than help.
If your cover letter doesn't violate any of the rules above, you're off to a good start! Next, we want to make sure your cover letter is formatted the right way and your content is on point to grab the reader's attention and get you in the door.
The Anatomy Of A Highly Effective Cover Letter
When I was job searching, one of the most frustrating things was trying to get a clear picture of what to include in my resume/cover letter/application. There is so much conflicting “expert” advice online it makes you feel like you're shooting in the dark.
When I started Cultivated Culture, I began tracking how different factors influenced the success of my students. After working with hundreds of job seekers over the past few years, I've found a strong correlation between the following factors and a high rate of successfully landing interviews:
Capitalize On Your Cover Letter's Header
Most people don't realize that when they hit “submit” on their app, their cover letter gets scanned by a piece of software that extracts specific information and stores the data so recruiters can easily find and assess candidates.
One of the major keywords they look for is a matching or relevant job title. If you're applying for a Project Manager role, are you including Project Manager, Project Management, PMP, or something similar in your cover letter? That's what the robot is looking for and the header is a great place to inject it. I recommend dropping it in right below your name.
After that, your cover letter is going to end up in the hands of a real human.
We want to make it as easy as possible for this person to learn more about us and get in contact if they want. I always recommend that you include the following right at the top of your cover letter:
Email Address – Make sure it's simple and professional. 76% of applications are rejected for having unprofessional email addresses. Also, don't forget to hyperlink it! You want the employer to be able to click and get in touch.
LinkedIn Profile – A recent study showed that applications that include a link to a comprehensive LinkedIn profile increase their chances of hearing back by 71%!
The key thing to note is that the 71% stemmed from people who had a highly optimized LinkedIn profile. If you're wondering how you should be optimizing your LinkedIn profile for more interviews, check out my LinkedIn optimization guide here.
Phone Number – If they like what they read, make it easy for them to pick up the phone and dial.
Relevant Links – Your header is also a great place to share links to things like Github, relevant social profiles, personal websites, your blog, etc.
Finally, a lot of people ask me about including a location. I don't recommend adding your location when writing a cover letter unless the application requires it. It's not necessary to give that information away and it can cause more harm than good.
Here's an example of a great cover letter header that capitalizes on everything I mentioned above:
Tell A Story In Your Cover Letter's Opening Paragraph
This is an overarching theme that you want to include in each section of your cover letter.
Science has proven that people are more likely to remember information (or candidates in this case) when it's delivered in the form of a story. Stories also help build a positive psychological association with the reader (or recruiter/hiring manger here).
Remember Dan Brown's book The Da Vinci Code ?
It was a novel about cryptic clues in some of Leonardo da Vinci's most famous paintings leading to the holy grail. While the book itself is fictitious, the artists, pieces, and much of the history behind them is accurate.
Now, if you asked most people about their opinion on art history, they'd tell you it was boring. They'd also groan in disappointment if you tried to get them to read a book on the subject. However, Dan Brown's novel skyrocketed to the top of the New York Times bestseller list and became an international sensation. In fact, it caused applications for art history degrees to jump up 25% in the years following its publication.
Why were all of these people suddenly interested in field previously considered to be “boring?” Because Dan Brown fed historical facts in the context of an interesting story!
We're aiming to do the same in our cover letter – specific examples below.
Talk About Why You're Interested In The Company
In the first section of your cover letter, you want to briefly talk about why you are interested in the role and the company. Remember, we want to drive the message through a story.
When I was applying at Google, I wanted to work there because they were a household name that was focused on cutting edge technology, but they also cared about impacting lives. Here is the story I used to drive that point home:
I wanted to recount a story from my referral [Name]. He’s in the education vertical and spends a significant amount of time at rural schools. When he was down in South Carolina, a teacher asked him about the possibility of getting wifi for the town and its students. [Name] said he would do his best and upon returning he asked around. He sent an email to Astro Teller who responded and they discussed the feasibility of implementing project Loon in the area. I don’t think it panned out but the fact that the communication took place over a tiny town in South Carolina sold me. That’s the kind of stuff I want to be doing.
If you don't have a story that immediately jumps to mind, the best way to get one is by talking to people who work at the company. Look up the company's mission or their core values beforehand and ask that person to tell you about the best example they've personally experienced.
You can check out this article if you want to know how to find someone's corporate email address.
Highlight What You Bring To The Role
The second section of your cover letter should showcase what you're going to bring to the role by talking about your past achievements. Be sure to use measurable metrics (actual numbers and quantitative results) to support your points.
If you're coming from a non-traditional background (and don't feel like you're “qualified”) this is the time to address that objection. Here is another excerpt from my Google cover letter that addresses my background using measurable results:
You might notice that there isn’t much “traditional” digital experience on my resume. That is because, coming from a scientific background, I needed to take a different path. In an effort to gain experience, I created my own agency called OpenWater Analytics. I specialized in using AdWords to generate real estate leads for private communities. I managed the entire sales process from cold outreach, to closing, to servicing the accounts on your platform. Most recently, I helped a community in South Carolina sell every listing on their site (about 15 homes) in less than 6 months. Our cost per lead was half of the competition and we did it all for less than the commission the realtor would have made on a single house (including ad spend).
When I wrote this, I didn't have much digital experience to speak to. Rather than trying to spin what I had, I went out and built the experience myself by starting a digital marketing firm. Again, if you feel like your experience is lacking, get out there are create your own!
Reference Your “Value Validation” Project
If you've read my article on How To Get A Job Anywhere With No Connections , you know that I always advocate for creating what I like to call a “Value Validation Project.”
This consists of having a conversation with someone at the company you want to work for and identifying their largest challenge or upcoming initiative. You then use that information to research on your own and come up with several solutions/suggestions for your contact.
In the final section of your cover letter you want to mention this project and include a call to action to discuss it. It could look something like this:
In hopes of learning more about [Company], I had a meeting with [Name]. She told me that her team's largest challenge was upselling customers into the company's new, complementary platform. She noted that, despite the platform increasing retention and lowering costs for clients, the upfront cost to onboard was a major obstacle.
In my previous role, we dealt with a similar situation. Our clients were receptive to adopting a new platform despite the data showing that it would be beneficial for all parties. I spearheaded an initiative where we tested and analyzed several revenue models that maximized adoption rates and profit margins. In the end, we increased adoption rates by 30% without impacting revenue.
Using the information that [Name] gave me, I outlined the process in detail as it relates to your platform. I believe that your team could implement these strategies immediately and see similar results. If you'd like me to send it to you, please let me know! My email is [email protected] .
This section is incredibly powerful because it shows that you are not only interested, you went ahead and proved out the value you could bring to the team. Additionally, the call to action can lead to conversations with the very people who will make the decision to hire you!
Nailing Your Cover Letter Format: Aesthetics, Structure, & Style
Now that you know what's going in your cover letter, it's time to talk about formatting it in a way that will get you results.
You probably didn't think that your paragraph structure, font choice, or margins matter, but they do. Your cover letter format says a lot about who you are as a person and a candidate. It also affects the scan-ability of your cover letter which is critical is you want to make it past those Applicant Tracking Systems!
Formatting Your Cover Letter Heading
I shared an image at the very top of this blog post that breaks down the general format and flow of a great cover letter. Here it is again:
The very first thing I mentioned was the Heading.
The Heading is where you're going to share things like your name, your contact info, and any other info that's relevant to the role. I always aim to include:
- First and last name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Link to my LinkedIn profile
- Any other links that are relevant (Github, personal websites, relevant social profiles, etc.)
When you're formatting your cover letter's header, make sure you don't use the header feature in Microsoft Word or Google Docs. Most Applicant Tracking Systems can't read what's inside of those headers so you're better off just including it in the “body” of the document.
Choosing An Awesome Font For Your Cover Letter (& Why That Matters)
Did I say “fonts?” For real? Who cares?
I used to just use the default Calibri or Arial too until I came across this post on the Psychology of Fonts . The author combed through 75+ academic studies on the subject which all pointed to a similar conclusion – fonts have a massive impact on our perception of an author.
That's right, people are judging you based on your font choice! Better pick a good one.
There are five main font categories out there today: Serif, Sans Serif, Monospace, Fantasy, and Cursive. Here’s an infographic illustrating the emotions that each of these font families evoke in the reader:
When it comes to the “best” font for your cover letter , the safest bet is to use something simple and easy to read. In my opinion, Sans Serif fits that bill best so choose from fonts like Avenir, Helvetica, or Open Sans.
Formatting Your Cover Letter With Your Resume
If you're writing a cover letter, I bet you're also thinking about how it will tie into your resume. Both of these documents tend to go hand-in-hand when applying for jobs and staying consistent in both is a great way to show off some organizational skills and attention to detail.
The best rule of thumb is to match the formatting you're using on both your resume and cover letter. That means you want to:
- Use the same color scheme (matching down to the specific hex code )
- Use the same font and sizing (if you use 12 point for headers and 10 point for paragraphs, stay consistent on both)
- Use the same header (you can just copy and paste it from your resume to your cover letter and vice versa!)
- Use the same margins and spacing (if you went with 0.5″ on one, do it for both!)
If you pick an awesome cover letter template (like the one I linked below) and you match the formatting with your resume, your materials are going to look awesome and give you a great first impression.
Finally, when all that work pays off and you make it past the final round, make sure your resume references sheet matches the templates you choose here.
How To Upload & Submit Your Cover Letter (Choosing The Right File Type)
So you're finally ready to upload your cover letter and hit “submit” on that online app. Not so fast!
When you upload your cover letter, the application will accept certain file types — and they're not created equal. Usually the online portals will accept Word (.doc and .dox), PDFs, TXT files, and more.
So which one should you choose?
First, you should look to see if there are any instructions on the page. If the application tells you to use a specific format or file type, you should use that format or file type.
This is important because different applicant tracking systems can read applications in different ways. Most modern applicant tracking systems can read PDFs , but not every company uses a modern ATS system. So if the application specifically asks for a Word doc, you should use a Word doc.
If there are no instructions, Word is usually your safest bet but you should be fine using a PDF in most cases as well (unless the site specifically states otherwise).
Cover Letter Templates & Examples
At this point you should have a solid understanding of the science behind writing a killer cover letter. You should also have a good handle on what mistakes to avoid so your cover letter makes an awesome first impression.
Now we need to apply all of that to ink on paper! In order to make that easy for you, I'm including a copy of the cover letter templates that I used to land an interview at Google so you can see exactly how I wrote it.
Steal The Exact Cover Letter I Used At Google, Microsoft, & Twitter (For Free)!
Context For The Free Cover Letter Template
Before we dive into the exact cover letter template, I want to give you some context so you can better understand the content of the letter.
I was applying for a Digital Advertising Sales Account Manager at Google's offices in New York. I started by doing some research on LinkedIn to find who I believed to be the hiring manager (her name was Emmy).
I knew that my non-traditional background was a big red flag for most employers so my goal was to proactively address it in my cover letter by calling it out, talking through what I'd done to build the right skills, and highlight the results I'd achieved from those efforts.
Finally, I had spoken to several Google employees who all told me that “Googliness” (cultural fit) was a huge factor in the company's hiring decisions. If I wanted to have a chance, I needed a compelling narrative around why I wanted to work for them and why I was a good fit.
With all of that in mind, here's the cover letter I wrote:
Austin's Cover Letter Template Dear Emmy Anlyan, I grew up with Google. When I was seven years old, I used to sneak down to my Dad’s office at five in the morning to play video games. I still remember opening the browser and seeing the bright, multi-colored letters above the search box for the first time. I’ve always been interested in the tech space and, while my background has mainly been in the sciences, I’m ready to dive head first into the digital world. I believe I would be a great fit for the Digital Advertising Sales Account Manager role because I have a deep understanding of the businesses that partner with Google and how they define success. You might notice that there isn’t much “traditional” digital experience on my resume. That is because, coming from a scientific background, I needed to take a different path. In an effort to gain experience, I created my own agency called OpenWater Analytics. I specialized in using AdWords to generate real estate leads for private communities. I managed the entire sales process from cold outreach, to closing, to servicing the accounts on your platform. Most recently, I helped a community in South Carolina sell every listing on their site (about 15 homes) in less than 6 months. Our cost per lead was half of the competition and we did it all for less than the commission the realtor would have made on a single house (including ad spend). Understanding how these small businesses worked was critical to my success, and I believe those skills will help Google acquire happier, more successful customers who are inclined to spend. In addition, I’ve done some research on your team and have come to understand that your largest challenge is around successfully growing smaller accounts at scale. Based on my experience, I’ve put together a few suggestions below this letter – I’m happy to chat through them in more detail if you’d like. I wanted to close with a quick story about Google that solidified my choice to apply. My referral, [Name of Referral] , works in the education vertical. He services the southeast and many of his accounts are rural. On his last visit down there, in a South Carolina town of 1,500 with no wifi, a teacher asked him if Google could help bring the internet to them. When [Name of Referral] made it back to the office, he emailed Astro Teller asking about the potential for Project Loon to help bring this town in the 21st century. To his surprise, Astro wrote him back within the week mentioning that he’d look into it. While things didn’t pan out, the fact that director of Google’s moonshot project division wrote back an employee about an elementary school in South Carolina blew me away. That is the kind of work I want to be doing. Thank you for taking the time to read my note, I’m incredibly excited to have the opportunity to be considered for this position. Best, Austin
Another Cover Letter Example From A Real Client
It's always helpful to see things from a few different angles so I wanted to include an example of the cover letter one of my clients created using the same template.
She was a high school Spanish teacher aiming to break into marketing. The company in question was an online education company that provides amazing video content for teachers to use in the classroom.
She had been leveraging the company's videos in her “Culture Corner” that she used to start every class. She decided to use that as the basis for her opening.
She starts off with a fantastic hook, “Grapes & [Company Name].”
If you're seeing that as a hiring manager, you're probably thinking “huh??” and you are most definitely be reading more.
Then she dives right into the story about one of her favorite memories that included one of the company's videos. Genius!
Next, she goes on to address her non-traditional background and shifts the conversation towards her value by illustrating her knowledge of the company and linking to a value validation project she put together.
This cover letter example is a 10/10, check out the full thing here:
My Client's Cover Letter Example Dear [Hiring Manager] , Grapes and [Company Name] . Both are amazing in their own right, but I never thought I’d get so much joy from combining them. I currently teach high school Spanish and I set aside time each class to teach my students about Spanish culture. A few weeks ago, we watched the “Virtual Viewing Party: Holidays from Around The World” video by [Company Name] . My students particularly loved the segment on the Spanish New Year’s 12 grapes tradition. This got my students interested in other aspects of Spanish culture. Now, we’re working on a culture project where students research a Spanish tradition and create a 3D representation of it. I’ve never seen so much energy in my classroom. Amazing stories like these are why I want to work for [Company Name] . You may notice that my resume does not reflect “traditional” marketing experience. After completing my master’s, I worked as the marketing manager for the UNCC Department of Languages program. I created a strategic marketing plan to increase enrollment for the Master’s in Spanish program. At the end of the year, the program saw a 50% increase in student enrollment (the largest jump in four years). Soon after, I pursued teaching for a few years. In order to get more experienced in the marketing analytics space, I created my own online education website to teach Spanish to adult learners. After testing various digital marketing strategies, my first product launch resulted in a 10% sell through rate. In addition, I am Google Analytics Certified and have working knowledge of SQL. My marketing experience coupled with my education experience gives me a unique perspective on Discovery Education’s product. After analyzing the company through the lens of both a marketer and a user, I put together a report outlining step-by-step data backed strategies that can help Discovery Education: Drive 4.5X more qualified leads Enhance its user experience for both prospects and current customers Implement a digital marketing strategy that has helped companies increase revenue by 760%. Leverage Google Analytics Goal Paths to test these ideas Finally, I’d like to add that I had the pleasure of connecting with [Current Employee] , one of your product marketing managers. [Employee] spoke so passionately about the product, and told me about the new partnerships [Company Name] has with the NFL and MLB. His drive to get the product in front of thousands of students is extraordinary. I’m extremely excited for the opportunity to join such a passionate group of people, and help impact students on such a large scale. Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. I’m looking forward to next steps. Regards, [Client's Name]
Download A Copy Of Austin's Free Cover Letter Template
If you want a copy of that cover letter template with the header included and everything formatted, here's a link to a copy on my Google Drive.
After you click through the link, just hit File > Make A Copy > Organize to add it to your own Google Drive! You can also download it in a variety of formats.
What's Next? Writing A Resume That Actually Gets Results
Now that your cover letter is taken care of, check out our super comprehensive guide on writing a resume that actually gets results. After giving that a read, you can check out our slew of free resume tools, like our free resume builder that will allow you to create an ATS-friendly resume in just a few minutes:
If you still have questions or thoughts about writing an awesome cover letter, drop a comment below — I'm happy to reply with an answer!
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Austin Belcak
Austin is the founder of Cultivated Culture where he helps people land jobs without connections, without traditional experience, and without applying online. His strategies have been featured in Forbes, Business Insider, & Fast Company and has helped people just like you land jobs at Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Twitter, & more.
19 thoughts on How To Write A Job-Winning Cover Letter [Free Templates & Examples]
Useful article for all job seekers who are likely to make cover letters to find a job but they should know that a poorly crafted cover letter may cost their dream job. Cover letter is important part of job application as it is first impression we’ll make with our prospective employer. Thanks for sharing these cover letter mistakes to avoid.
Thanks so much for reading and dropping a comment Mayur!
I was unaware before applying that cover letter plays this much of importance in interview so decided to create one for myself but didn’t had any idea about how and what should i include or which mistakes should i avoid while creating one but this article helped me while creating Cover Letter so thank you for the help.Cheers to this article.
You’re so welcome Ritesh! I’m super happy to hear it helped give you some direction 🙂
Thanks so much Rubel! Glad you liked it.
Great advice.
Thanks Steven!
Great guide! However, what would you recommend for job seekers who work in a field where there is no/little measurement of the impact of your work, e.g. software testing? Surely, no one expects us to make up figures for the impact that our work did. How exactly can one sell oneself here?
Sure Andeel – when you’re testing software, you still have measurable outcomes. You probably have a rate at which you identify issues, or you have a track record of approval while minimizing issues, etc. On top of that, it doesn’t necessarily need to be measurable. You could say something like “I Help Companies Deliver High Quality Software Products That Launch Without Issues” or something similar.
i hope it will help .. so as i can be able to change the situation i am currently in
I think it will, keep me posted on how things go!
Great Advice! I sure will avoid the mistakes listed and use your pointers for my next cover letter. Thank you.
I’m wishing you a ton of success out there Biko!
Really good post, loved it! i just have 1 question while building resume using your tool, we are able to create single page resume. Is there any chance to upgrade the tool so that we can add 2 page resume using Resybild.io
Yes! We are upgrading the tool the support multi-page resumes right now 🙂
Hello Austin could you write something, either for a cover letter or informational interview how to do so if you have a referral already?
Thanks Austin. It’s 2023, and this still gives me great insights on how to write compelling cover letter that works. Thanks
You got it Thompson! I know how frustrating cover letters can be, thanks so much for the kind words!
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How To Write an Effective Email Cover Letter (Template + Examples)
3 key takeaways
- An email cover letter is typically sent alongside a resume.
- Learn the structure and format of a winning email cover letter, and how to create your own.
- Teal’s AI Cover Letter Generator simplifies the process of creating cover letters tailored to each job.
When applying for a job online, an email cover letter is a crucial part of your application. It's your introduction, providing a personalized narrative that complements your resume and demonstrates your fit for the role.
A well-written email cover letter can distinguish you from other candidates and improve your chances of securing an interview.
This guide walks through best practices for writing an email cover letter, emphasizing the importance of personalization and professionalism.
Struggling to craft the perfect email cover letter? Get started with Teal’s AI Cover Letter Generator for free.
What is an email cover letter?
An email cover letter is a document sent with your resume when applying for a job online or via email. It's an introduction to your qualifications and interest in the role.
Email cover letters have become a standard part of the job application process, often serving as the first impression you make on a potential employer.
The primary role of an email cover letter is to complement your resume by providing context and a personalized narrative that demonstrates your fit for the position. An effective email cover letter can set you apart from other candidates and increase your chances of securing an interview.
Why email cover letters matter
Crafting a compelling email cover letter is more important today than ever before.
A well-written email cover letter can make the difference between your application being noticed or getting lost in a "maybe" bin with other candidates. It lets you showcase your personality, highlight your most relevant skills and experiences, and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and company.
Plus, an impressive email cover letter can set the stage for a successful job interview.
It gives hiring managers a glimpse into your communication skills, attention to detail, and professionalism—all qualities employers highly value. A memorable email cover letter can pique the hiring manager's interest and make them eager to learn more about you during an interview.
In essence, your email cover letter is a powerful tool for marketing yourself, distinguishing your application, and increasing your chances of landing your dream job.
How to write an effective email cover letter
An effective email cover letter requires a strategic approach to capture the employer's attention and demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Follow these steps to craft a compelling email cover letter:
1. Craft an attention-grabbing subject line
Your subject line is the first thing the employer sees, so make it count. Use a clear and concise subject line that includes the job title and your name.
Marketing Manager Position - John Doe.
2. Address the recipient appropriately
Start your email cover letter with a proper salutation, addressing the hiring manager by name, if possible. If the name is unavailable, use a respectful greeting.
Dear hiring manager,
3. Write an engaging introductory paragraph
In the opening paragraph, briefly introduce yourself, express your enthusiasm for the role, and provide a hook that piques the reader's interest.
Consider mentioning a mutual connection or a notable achievement relevant to the position.
4. Highlight your qualifications and fit for the role
The main body of your email cover letter should showcase your qualifications, experiences, and skills that align with the job requirements.
Quantify your resume and provide specific examples that demonstrate your potential value to the company. Mention how you can contribute to their success and why you are the ideal candidate.
Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator helps job seekers craft compelling cover letters that effectively highlight their accomplishments.
Teal is able to analyze job descriptions to identify the most relevant skills and experiences to emphasize. It then helps you articulate these professional achievements more clearly and persuasively, ensuring your cover letter stands out.
Whether you're detailing a project that boosted sales by 25 percent or explaining how you led a successful team, Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator ensures your accomplishments are presented in the most impactful way, increasing your chances of making a strong impression on potential employers.
5. Express enthusiasm and a call to action
Conclude your email cover letter by reiterating your interest in the role and the company.
Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and provide a call to action, such as requesting an interview or discussing your qualifications further.
6. Use a professional sign-off
End your email cover letter with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely," "Best regards," or "Thank you for your consideration."
Need help overcoming writer's block? Learn how to generate a great cover letter with ChatGPT cover letter prompts .
Tips for writing compelling email cover letters
Writing your first cover letter can be intimidating. Follow these tips to set yourself up for success:
- Keep it concise and focused: Aim for a length of three to four paragraphs, highlighting your most relevant qualifications and experiences.
- Personalize for each application: Tailor your email cover letter to the specific job and company, demonstrating your understanding of their needs and how you can contribute.
- Proofread carefully: Ensure your email cover letter is free from spelling, grammatical, and formatting errors, as it reflects your attention to detail.
- Incorporate keywords from the job description: Use relevant keywords and phrases from the job posting to show your alignment with the role's requirements.
Following a clear, professional format is crucial for creating an email cover letter that makes a strong first impression.
Writing email cover letters with AI
Struggling to craft the perfect cover letter for each job application? Research and compare the best AI cover letter writers to avoid writer’s block.
Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator takes the stress out of the process, allowing you to create effective, tailored cover letters in minutes, not hours.
With just a few clicks, its AI personalizes your cover letter to match any job description, highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences.
Plus, Teal intelligently adds keywords from the job descriptions to help make your cover letter more ATS-friendly, ensuring your application stands out with a professional, customized cover letter every time.
Proper email cover letter format
The standard parts of an email cover letter include:
1. Subject line
Your email cover letter's subject line is the first thing a hiring manager or recruiter will see. It's your chance to make a strong first impression and entice them to open your email.
When crafting your subject line, aim for clarity and conciseness.
Clearly state the purpose of your email, such as "Application for [Job Title] - [Your Name]."
This immediately lets the reader know what the email is about and who it's from.
Avoid using generic subject lines like "Resume" or "Job Application.” While descriptive, those terms are too vague and overused in application subject lines and, therefore, more likely to be overlooked.
To make your subject line stand out, consider including a unique selling point or achievement that aligns with the job requirements. This gives the reader a reason to learn more about you.
Lastly, keep your subject line short and sweet, ideally under 60 characters. That way it won't get cut off in the recipient's inbox preview.
Email cover letter subject line example:
Experienced Software Developer with Expertise in [Relevant Skill]
2. Salutation
One of the most important aspects of your email cover letter is addressing it to the right person.
Whenever possible, aim to find the hiring manager's name or person responsible for filling the position. This shows you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the role.
To find the hiring manager's name, review the job posting carefully. Sometimes, the contact person doesn't have their name listed in the ad. If not, visit the company's website and look for a "Team" or "About Us" page. You might find the name of the department head there.
If you still can't find a name, try searching for the company on LinkedIn. Look for people with titles like "Hiring Manager," "Recruiter," or "Human Resources Manager." You can also search for the head of the department related to the position.
If you exhaust all these options and still can't find a name, using a general salutation is okay.
"Dear Hiring Manager," "Dear Recruiting Team," or "Dear [Department] Team" are all appropriate choices. Avoid outdated salutations like "Dear Sir or Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern."
3. Opening paragraph
Your opening paragraph captures the hiring manager's attention and entices them to read further.
Keep your opening paragraph of your email cover letter short and impactful, ideally no more than three to four sentences.
Remember, your goal is to quickly capture the hiring manager's interest and encourage them to continue reading your email cover letter to discover how you can contribute to their organization's success.
Try the following to get started:
- Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and the company to make a strong first impression.
- Briefly mention how you discovered the position, whether it was through a job board, referral, or the company's website.
- Explain why you are interested in the role and company.
- Showcase your knowledge of the company’s mission, values, or recent achievements.
- Highlight one or two key qualifications that make you an excellent fit for the position.
Email cover letter intro example:
I was thrilled to come across the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name] on [Job Board]. With my 5+ years of experience in digital marketing and my passion for data-driven strategies, I am confident I would be a valuable asset to your team.
4. Body paragraphs
One of the most important aspects of crafting an effective email cover letter is showcasing your relevant skills and experience.
To make a strong impression on the hiring manager, carefully select the most impressive and pertinent qualifications from your background that align with the job requirements.
- Review the job description and identify the key skills, experience, and qualities the employer is seeking.
- Choose examples from your work history that demonstrate your proficiency in these areas.
- If the job posting emphasizes strong project management abilities, highlight a time when you successfully led a complex project from start to finish.
- Provide concrete details about your role, the challenges you faced, and the positive outcomes you achieved.
- Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible using hard numbers and metrics.
- Instead of stating you "improved sales," specify that you "boosted sales by 25% within the first quarter."
- Incorporate keywords and phrases from the job description into your email cover letter.
Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen candidates based on the presence of specific keywords. Naturally integrating these terms into your resume and cover letter also increases your chances of passing through the ATS and landing an interview.
Remember, the goal is to clarify to the hiring manager that you possess the necessary skills and experience to excel in the role.
5. Add a call to action
As you wrap up your email cover letter, be sure to finish strong and leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager. This is your golden opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company, as well as your confidence in the fit.
Start by briefly recapping your key qualifications and how they align with the position's requirements. This reinforces why you're a strong candidate and reminds the reader of the value you can bring to their team.
Then, clearly state your desire to further discuss the opportunity and learn more about how you can contribute to the organization's success.
This call-to-action demonstrates your proactive approach and eagerness to take the next step in the hiring process.
6. Signature
Finally, end with a polite and professional sign-off.
Best regards, Sincerely, Thank you for your consideration.
Include your full name and contact details below your sign-off to make it easy for the hiring manager to reach out to you.
By leveraging AI to streamline formatting, you can ensure each email cover letter maintains a polished, professional appearance while focusing your time on tailoring the content to make a compelling case for your candidacy.
Need a bit of added help? Check out this resource to learn how to format your cover letter and stand out from the crowd.
Email cover letter sample
To help you visualize what an effective email cover letter looks like, let's explore a few examples for different scenarios:
Email cover letter example: marketing manager position
Subject : Experienced Marketing Manager Excited About [Company Name] Opportunity Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], I was thrilled to come across the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name]. With my 5+ years of experience leading successful marketing campaigns and driving brand growth, I am confident I would be a valuable addition to your team. In my current role at [Current Company], I have spearheaded several digital marketing initiatives that have increased website traffic by 40% and generated a 20% increase in lead conversions. I am well-versed in developing data-driven strategies and collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve measurable results. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s mission of [Company Mission] and believe my skills and experience align perfectly with the goals you aim to achieve. I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to your marketing efforts and help drive your company's continued success. Thank you for considering my application. You will find my resume attached for your review and look forward to the possibility of an interview. Best regards, [Your Name]
Why it works
This email cover letter works effectively for several reasons:
- Personalized salutation : Addressing the hiring manager by name shows that the applicant has taken the time to research and personalize their application, which demonstrates genuine interest in the position and company.
- Clear and enthusiastic introduction : The opening sentence clearly states the position applied for and expresses enthusiasm, capturing the hiring manager's attention right away.
- Relevant experience and achievements : The applicant highlights their 5+ years of experience and provides specific, quantifiable achievements, such as increasing website traffic by 40 percent and lead conversions by 20 percent. This demonstrates their ability to deliver results and adds credibility to their application.
- Alignment with company mission : By mentioning the company’s mission and explaining how their skills and experience align with the company's goals, the applicant shows they have researched the company and understand its values and objectives.
- Collaborative skills : The applicant emphasizes their ability to work with cross-functional teams and develop data-driven strategies, showcasing their collaborative and analytical skills, which are valuable in a marketing role.
- Professional and polite closing : The closing paragraph reiterates the applicant’s interest in the role, thanks the hiring manager for their consideration, and includes a call to action by expressing eagerness for an interview. This leaves a positive and proactive impression.
- Attachment of resume : Mentioning the attached resume ensures the hiring manager is aware of where to find it, providing a complete picture of the applicant's qualifications.
Overall, this email cover letter is concise, well-structured, and tailored to the specific job and company, effectively showcasing the applicant's qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Email cover letter example: software developer position
Subject : Passionate Software Developer Ready to Contribute to [Company Name] Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], I am writing to express my strong interest in the Software Developer position at [Company Name]. As a skilled developer with extensive experience in [Programming Languages/Frameworks], I am excited about the opportunity to bring my technical expertise to support your mission. During my time at [Current Company], I have been responsible for developing and maintaining several complex applications. One notable project involved creating a user-friendly web application that streamlined internal processes, resulting in a 30% increase in efficiency. I pride myself on writing clean, maintainable code and collaborating effectively with team members. I am impressed by [Company Name]'s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and creating cutting-edge solutions. I believe that my problem-solving skills and passion for innovation make me an ideal fit for your development team. I have attached my resume, which further highlights my qualifications and experience. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name]'s success. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name]
This email cover letter works well for several reasons:
- Personalized salutation : Addressing the hiring manager by name shows the applicant has taken the time to research and personalize their application, demonstrating genuine interest in the position and company.
- Relevant technical skills : The applicant mentions their experience with specific programming languages and frameworks, highlighting their technical expertise and aligning with the job requirements.
- Quantifiable achievements : The applicant provides a specific example of their work, noting a 30 percent increase in efficiency from a user-friendly web application they developed. This demonstrates their ability to deliver tangible results and showcases their impact on previous projects.
- Alignment with company goals : By expressing admiration for the company’s commitment to innovation and technology, the applicant shows they have researched the company and aligns with its values and mission.
- Highlighting key strengths : The applicant emphasizes their problem-solving skills, passion for innovation, and ability to write clean, maintainable code, which are essential qualities for a software developer.
- Attachment of resume : Mentioning the attached resume ensures that the hiring manager is aware of additional details supporting the application, providing a complete picture of the applicant's qualifications.
For more inspiration and guidance, check out Teal's extensive collection of cover letter examples spanning various industries and roles.
How to proofread and edit your email cover letter
A well-polished cover letter demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism, increasing your chances of impressing the hiring manager.
Before hitting send on your email cover letter, take the time to carefully proofread and edit your work by following these steps:
1. Review your email cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. Even minor mistakes can make you appear careless or unqualified.
2. Use spell-check tools and read through the content slowly to catch any typos or awkward phrasing.
3. Assess the overall flow and tone of your writing. Does your email cover letter have a logical progression of ideas? Is the tone appropriate for the company culture and industry?
4. Make sure your personality shines through while maintaining a professional demeanor.
5. Get a second opinion. Consider having a trusted friend, family member, or mentor review your email cover letter as well.
A second set of eyes can often spot issues you may have missed and provide valuable feedback for improvement.
Remember, a little extra effort in the editing process can go a long way in making a positive first impression on potential employers.
How to send your email cover letter
Once you've crafted a compelling email cover letter, you need to send it correctly to ensure it reaches the hiring manager and makes the desired impact.
1. Use a professional email address
Create an email address that includes your name, such as [email protected] . Avoid using casual or outdated email addresses that could undermine your credibility.
2. Attach your cover letter and resume
Use widely accepted file formats such as PDF or Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx). PDF resumes are often preferred because they preserve the formatting and layout of your documents across different devices and platforms.
3. Name your attachments professionally
Name your attachments clearly, such as "FirstName_LastName_Cover_Letter.pdf" and "FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf."
This makes it easy for the hiring manager to identify and keep track of your application materials.
4. Double-check before sending
Before hitting send, double-check that you've attached both your cover letter and resume.
It's also a good idea to test your email by sending it to yourself or a friend to ensure that the attachments open correctly and the formatting appears as intended. This extra step can help you avoid any last-minute technical issues that could derail your application.
Write cover letters faster with Teal
Writing an effective email cover letter can be time-consuming and daunting, especially when you're applying for multiple positions.
Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator simplifies the process, allowing you to generate a compelling email cover letter in minutes.
The AI-powered Cover Letter Generator guides you through the essential components, ensuring you don't miss any crucial elements. Simply input key information about your background and the job you're applying for, and the tool will craft a personalized email cover letter that highlights your relevant skills and experience.
One of the most significant advantages of using Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator is its ability to create customized content for each application. The tool analyzes the job description and incorporates relevant keywords and phrases, demonstrating to hiring managers that you're a strong fit for the role. This level of customization can significantly increase your chances of standing out from other job seekers.
Rather than starting from scratch for each application, you can leverage AI suggestions to quickly assemble a polished email cover letter. This efficiency allows you to focus your energy on other aspects of your job search, such as networking and interview preparation.
Try out Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to write a cover letter in the email body.
It depends on the company size and hiring process. Small companies with fewer applications to manage may prefer the cover letter in the email, while larger companies will need it as an attachment to add to a candidate’s file.
Can the email message itself serve as the cover letter?
In some cases, the email message can serve as your cover letter, particularly if the job posting explicitly states this preference. If taking this approach, craft the email with the same level of care and attention you would give to a formal cover letter document.
How to choose between PDF and Word attachments?
When it comes to attaching your cover letter and resume, both PDF and Word resumes are generally accepted. PDFs are often preferred as they preserve the formatting and layout, ensuring your documents appear exactly as intended.
Nathan Thompson
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How to Write an Effective Cover Letter for Journal Submission
Craft your cover letter for journal submission the right way with our expert tips! Learn how to grab editors’ attention and stand it out.
When it comes to submitting a manuscript for publication in a journal, many authors focus solely on the quality of their research and the clarity of their writing. While these are important factors, it’s easy to overlook the role that a well-crafted cover letter can play in the submission process. A cover letter can be the key to getting your manuscript noticed by the editor and ultimately accepted for publication. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of a cover letter for journal submissions and provide tips for crafting an effective one.
What is a Cover Letter for Journal Submission?
A cover letter for journal submission is a document that accompanies a manuscript when it is submitted for publication in an academic or scientific journal. The purpose of the cover letter is to introduce the author and their work to the editor of the journal and to provide any additional information that may be relevant to the manuscript or the submission process. Furthermore, its purpose is to introduce the manuscript to the editor and provide additional information about the research and its significance. The cover letter should be concise and focused, typically no more than one page.
What Should be Included in the Cover Letter?
A cover letter should include several key elements to effectively introduce your manuscript. It’s important to personalize the letter for the specific journal, use a professional tone, and proofread carefully for errors. To make sure your cover letter is effective, there are several key elements that you should include:
Addressee’s Information and Date of Submission
Your cover letter should start with the date of submission, followed by the name and address of the editor or editorial staff who will be reviewing your manuscript. This information should be current and accurate to ensure your submission is directed to the right person.
Opening Salutation
The opening salutation of your cover letter should be professional and courteous, addressing the editor or editorial staff by name, starting with “Dear…”. Don´t forget to include the title and position of the editor you are addressing.
Purpose Statement and Administrative Information
Your cover letter should have a clear statement of the purpose of your research and the journal to which you are submitting your manuscript. You should also include any administrative information required by the journal, such as the type of manuscript (e.g. original research, review article, case report) and the number of words or pages.
Summary of Main Research Findings and Implications
One of the most important elements of your cover letter is a summary of the main findings and implications of your research. This summary should be concise and focused, highlighting the most important aspects of your research and why it is significant to the field.
Statements or Information Required by the Journal
Many journals require specific statements or information to be included in the cover letter. This may include a statement that the manuscript has not been previously published or is not under consideration for publication elsewhere, or a list of potential conflicts of interest or funding sources that may have influenced the research.
Previous Contact with the Journal
If you have had previous contact with the journal, such as submitting a previous manuscript or attending a conference sponsored by the journal, it is important to mention this in your cover letter. This information can help establish a connection between you and the editor, which may increase the chances of your manuscript being accepted.
Conflict of Interests and Financial Disclosures
It is important to disclose any potential conflicts of interest or financial disclosures that may have influenced the research. This information can help ensure transparency and maintain the integrity of the research.
Your cover letter should include a statement indicating that all authors have read and approved the manuscript and that the work is original and not plagiarized. This information can help establish the credibility of the research and the integrity of the authorship.
Suggested Reviewers
Suggested Reviewers are generally considered a best practice and are often recommended by journals. Providing a list of suggested reviewers can help to ensure that the manuscript is reviewed by individuals who have the appropriate expertise and background to evaluate the work, and can help to speed up the review process by reducing the time needed for the editor to identify potential reviewers. This can help expedite the review process and increase the likelihood of your manuscript being accepted.
Concurrent/Duplicate Submissions
An important consideration when submitting a manuscript for publication is concurrent or duplicate submissions. Concurrent submissions occur when a manuscript is submitted to more than one journal at the same time. Duplicate submissions occur when a manuscript is submitted to the same journal more than once.
In the cover letter, you should clearly state whether the manuscript has been submitted elsewhere or whether it has been previously published. If the manuscript is under consideration elsewhere, you should provide the name of the journal and the date of submission. If the manuscript has been previously published, you should provide the citation for the publication.
Closing Salutation
When closing a cover letter for journal submission, it’s important to maintain a professional and courteous tone. A common closing salutation is “Sincerely,” followed by your name. However, some alternatives that are also appropriate include “Best regards,” “Thank you for your time and consideration,” or “Respectfully.” Whichever salutation you choose, make sure it matches the tone of your letter and conveys your appreciation for the editor’s consideration.
Request to Exclude Reviewers
A request to exclude reviewers is a common feature of a cover letter for journal submission, particularly in cases where the author has concerns about potential conflicts of interest or bias that could affect the review process.
When making a request to exclude reviewers, the author should provide a clear and concise explanation of the reasons for the request and should provide specific details about any potential conflicts of interest or concerns that they may have. It is also important to note that some journals may have specific guidelines or policies regarding requests to exclude reviewers, and authors should familiarize themselves with these guidelines before making a request.
In general, it is recommended that authors provide a minimum of three to five potential reviewers who are not affiliated with the author or their institution, in order to provide a broad range of expertise and perspectives. When making a request to exclude reviewers, it is also important to provide alternative suggestions for potential reviewers who could be considered in their place.
Tips for Writing a Journal Submission Cover Letter
A well-crafted cover letter can help your manuscript stand out and increase your chances of being accepted for publication. Here are some tips for writing an effective journal submission cover letter.
One of the most important tips for writing a journal submission cover letter is to proofread it carefully. Typos, spelling errors, and grammatical mistakes can detract from the professional image you want to project. Make sure to read the letter multiple times and have someone else read it over as well to catch any errors you may have missed.
Keep the Cover Letter Brief
Another important tip is to keep the cover letter brief and to the point. The cover letter should provide a brief introduction of the manuscript and the key findings, as well as any other information that is necessary for the editor to understand the importance and relevance of the manuscript. The letter should be no more than one page in length.
Review Examples of Cover Letters
It can be helpful to review examples of cover letters for journal submissions to get an idea of the style, tone, and content that is appropriate. You can search for examples online or ask colleagues who have submitted manuscripts for publication for their advice. When reviewing examples, pay attention to the language used, the level of detail provided, and the overall organization and structure of the letter. This can help you craft a cover letter that is professional, informative, and effective.
Cover Letter Template for a Journal Article Submission
A cover letter is an important component of manuscript submission for publication in a journal. Using a template can help ensure that your cover letter includes all the necessary information and follows the proper format. Here is a guide to creating a cover letter template for a journal article submission.
The header should include your contact information, including your name, affiliation, and contact details (address, phone number, and email address), the date of submission, and the name and address of the journal.
Opening Paragraph
The opening paragraph should provide a brief introduction to the manuscript and its key findings. This paragraph should also mention the purpose of the manuscript and why it is relevant to the journal’s readership. You may also want to mention any previous correspondence or contact with the journal.
Body Paragraphs
The body of the cover letter should include several paragraphs that provide more detail about the manuscript. This may include a summary of the methods used, key results and findings, and implications for future research. You may also want to mention any notable limitations or challenges encountered during the research process.
It is also important to address any specific requirements or requests from the journal, such as a particular format for tables or figures, or specific information to be included in the manuscript. You should also mention any funding sources or conflicts of interest that may be relevant.
Closing Paragraph
The closing paragraph should reiterate the significance of the manuscript and its contribution to the field. You may also want to mention any potential reviewers for the manuscript or suggest reviewers who would be appropriate. Finally, you should include a polite and professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards”, followed by your name and signature.
Common Expressions for Cover Letters
When writing a cover letter for journal submission, it’s important to use appropriate and professional language. Here are some common expressions that can be used in cover letters:
“We are pleased to submit our manuscript…”
“The research reported in this manuscript addresses a significant gap in the literature…”
“We believe this manuscript will be of interest to your readership because…”
“Our findings have important implications for future research in this field.”
“We would like to thank the reviewers and editors for their time and consideration.”
“We look forward to hearing from you regarding the status of our manuscript.”
“Thank you for your time and consideration.”
These expressions can be used to convey important information in a professional and concise manner. When using these expressions, it’s important to tailor them to the specific journal and to make sure they are appropriate for the content of your cover letter.
Journal Submission Tips and Hacks from the Experts
Submitting a journal article can be a challenging and sometimes frustrating process. However, by following some tips and hacks from the experts, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips and hacks to help you submit your article to a journal:
Choose the Right Journal
Before submitting your article, make sure you choose the right journal. Consider factors such as the journal’s scope, readership, and impact factor. Make sure your article fits with the journal’s focus and aims.
Read the Guidelines
Read the journal’s submission guidelines carefully and follow them closely. Pay attention to formatting, length, and other requirements. Failure to follow the guidelines could result in your article being rejected without review.
Get Feedback
Before submitting your article, get feedback from colleagues or mentors. Ask them to read your manuscript and provide constructive criticism. This can help you identify potential weaknesses and improve the quality of your article.
Write a Strong Abstract
Your abstract is often the first thing that editors and reviewers will read. Make sure it is clear, concise, and provides a compelling summary of your article. Highlight the key findings and implications of your research.
Use Clear and Concise Language
Use clear and concise language when writing your article. Avoid jargon, technical terms, and complex language that could be difficult for readers to understand. Write in a way that is accessible to a broad audience.
Address Reviewer Comments
If your article is rejected or requires revisions, make sure you carefully address all reviewer comments. Be thorough and professional in your responses. This can increase your chances of acceptance in future rounds of review.
Keep Records
Keep records of all correspondence with the journal, including submission dates, reviewer comments, and decisions. This can help you stay organized and keep track of the progress of your article.
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Middle paragraph (s) Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Show Transcript.
1. Personalization. Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role. 2.
Step 3: Address your cover letter to the hiring manager—preferably by name. The most traditional way to address a cover letter is to use the person's first and last name, including "Mr." or "Ms." (for example, "Dear Ms. Jane Smith" or just "Dear Ms. Smith").
Respectfully, Kind regards, Best regards, Yours truly, Then, make two spaces below the salutation, and type your full name. For some professional (but optional) flair, sign your cover letter either with a scan of your signature or by using software like DocuSign. 8. Check your cover letter's content and formatting.
Include the name of the person to whom you are writing as well as the company name and address just above the salutation. In the salutation, greet the hiring manager by name. If you don't know the name of the person, consider greeting the hiring department or the department with which you would be working if hired. 3.
Perhaps the most challenging part of the job application process is writing an effective cover letter. And yes, you should send one. Even if only one in two cover letters gets read, that's still ...
A good cover letter closing will leave a great taste in the hiring manager's mouth and will go a long way to securing an interview. ... Writing a cover letter for an entry level position, or to a job you have no experience in is very similar to the letter you would write as an intern.
Visually Match Your Resumé. The heading of your letter should correlate with your resumé, the font should be the same and the paper (if you're printing it) should also be the same. Along with your resume, your cover letter is part of a pair, and this pair should be visually consistent.
Here's how to write a successful cover letter: 1. Stick to the Proper Cover Letter Format. Your cover letter should follow the best practices for writing business letters. Keep your cover letter short and to the point—in fact, your entire cover letter shouldn't be longer than 350 words.
How to Write a Cover Letter That Sounds Like You (and Gets Noticed) by. Elainy Mata. May 10, 2022. EM. Elainy Mata is a Multimedia Producer at Harvard Business Review. ElainyMata.
Avoid addressing the recipient with "Dear Sir or Madam," which is outdated and impersonal. It's always best to address them by their title and name. For example: Good cover letter greeting examples: "Dear hiring manager,". "Dear [XYZ Company] team,". "Dear Customer Acquisition Hiring Manager,". Weak cover letter greeting examples:
6. The Cover Letter with H.E.A.R.T. HubSpot has a lot of H.E.A.R.T. — Humble, Empathetic, Adaptable, Remarkable, Transparent. Our Culture Code is the foundation of the company's culture, the driving force behind our mission to help millions grow better, and serves as the scaffolding for our hiring practices.
But you should try to introduce some variety into your cover letter. Here are a few examples of action words you can use in your cover letter: "I was a key collaborator on a tight-knit team…". "Helped our team meet the project goal…". "Created a new system to…". "I managed a team of…". "I helped create a new process…".
Cover letter structure and format. A cover letter should be no longer than one page with a font size between 10-12 points. Be sure to include your contact information and address it directly to the hiring manager, using their name. If you are not sure who to address the letter to, write "Dear Hiring Manager."
Place your name, city, state, ZIP code, phone number and email address in your cover letter heading. Your email address should be professional like "[email protected]," and not personal like "[email protected]." Include links to your LinkedIn profile or professional online portfolio if you have one.
Step 9: Stay Formal in the Closing Salutation. Once you've written the body of your cover letter, you just need to put a formal closing at the very end. Write "Sincerely" and follow it with your full name. Adding your handwritten signature is optional (recommended for more formal cover letters).
A great cover letter uses a logical progression of ideas to advertise your skills. There are seven sections that every cover letter should include to fit employer expectations and highlight your best qualities: 1. Header. All cover letters start with a header that includes your contact information. People often use the same header for their ...
Employer name. Company Name. Street address. City, State. Salutation. Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], Opening Paragraph (Introduction) Your cover letter opening should contain a self-introduction. Write about who you are, where your expertise lies, where you found the job posting, and why you want to apply for the job.
Then try to match them in the letter in a way that will appeal to the employer's self-interest. Arrange the points in a logical sequence; organize each paragraph around a main point. Basic fonts like Arial, Calibri, Georgia, Verdana, and Times New Roman work well. A font size of 10 or 12 points is easy to read.
1. The professional cover letter. In this great cover letter example, the applicant landed an IT project management job by proving they had the required project management skills and experience while providing highlights from their career: Include hard numbers in your cover letter to impress the employer.
1. Begin by introducing yourself. To start your cover letter, introduce yourself. This means including your full name, your specific interest in the position and the reasons you've chosen to apply. If you got a referral to the job from another party, ensure to mention this in the first paragraph. 2.
5. Express enthusiasm and a call to action. Conclude your email cover letter by reiterating your interest in the role and the company. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and provide a call to action, such as requesting an interview or discussing your qualifications further. .
A well-crafted cover letter can help your manuscript stand out and increase your chances of being accepted for publication. Here are some tips for writing an effective journal submission cover letter. Proofread. One of the most important tips for writing a journal submission cover letter is to proofread it carefully.
A cover letter should include the following parts: Header. Salutation. Introduction. Body paragraph. Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. The following cover letter samples and examples will show you how to write a cover letter for many employment circumstances. Browse cover letters by job title for inspiration.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about how to make a resume for a job, including: How to write a resume in 10 steps. 1. Gather relevant information. 2. Pick the best resume format. 3. Add your contact information. 4.
Here is a cover letter template you can use to create your own general operative cover letter: [Your name] [City, postcode] [Your phone number] [Your email] [Today's date] [Recipient's name] [Recipient's company] Dear [Recipient's name], I am writing to express my interest in the general operative position at [company name].
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