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Cover Letter Tips To Help You Land The Job (With Examples)
- How To Write A Cover Letter
- When Is A Cover Letter Necessary
- Free Cover Letter Templates
- Cover Letter Mistakes To Avoid
- Cover Letter Tips
- How To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter
- Cover Letter Examples
- Best Cover Letters
- Cover Letter For Internship
- General Cover Letter Templates
- Career Change Cover Letter
- Promotion Cover Letter
- College Student Cover Letter
- Entry Level Cover Letter
- Legal Cover Letter
- Creative Cover Letter
- Cover Letter For Government Job
- Cover Letter With No Experience
- Short Cover Letter Examples
- How To Send An Email Cover Letter
- How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job With No Experience In That Field
- Cover Letter Format
- Salutation and Greeting
- Who To Address When Unknown
- How To Start A Cover Letter
- How To End A Cover Letter
- Best Cover Letter Font And Size
- Cover Letter Spacing
- Cover Letter Length
- Key Elements Of A Cover Letter
- How To Write An Address
- Official Letter Format
- Cover Letter Opening
- How To Sign A Cover Letter
- Salary Requirements In Cover Letter
- Referral In Cover Letter
- Cover Letter Body
- Use Dear Sir Or Madam?
- Use Mrs. Or Ms.?
Find a Job You Really Want In
Along with your resume, your cover letter is a vital part of the job application process. It shows your accomplishments and your personality so that hiring managers can quickly see why you’re the perfect person for the job. Writing a cover letter can feel intimidating, but we’ve put together some tips on how to make your cover letter shine, as well as an example cover letter you can use as a reference. Key Takeaway Keep your cover letter as to the point as possible — 200 words or less is the usual goal. Work to find the hiring manager’s or recipient’s name so you can address your cover letter to them. Use your cover letter as an opportunity to showcase your communication skills, as well as your applicable technical skills and work experience. In This Article Skip to section 31 Cover Letter Tips Example Cover Letter Final Thoughts Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs 31 Cover Letter Tips
Keep it short. Your cover letter should never be longer than a page and, ideally, it should be less than half a page.
People ask “ how long should my cover letter be ” more than any other question we’ve seen.
According to the Orange County Resume Survey, every hiring manager agrees it should never go over a page. And, for the most part, everyone agrees shorter is better.
The goal, and you’ll hear this a lot through the rest of the article, is to sell yourself in about 200 words or less.
Find the hiring manager’s name. Next, people usually worry about who to address a cover letter to.
With the power of Google, you should be able to find the hiring manager’s name in no more than 15 minutes. Check the job posting to see if a name or email address that’s obviously a name is given.
If you strike out there, check the company’s website to find a department head or hiring manager that receives application materials. If you’re still stuck, call the company and ask to speak with someone in human resources or the department you’re applying to.
If you’d rather not call, you can also try scouring LinkedIn for an appropriate recipient, or at least see if a company representative you find there can point you in the right direction.
If the job postings requires a cover letter, submit one. Everyone has their own opinion on the importance of cover letters. But the fact of the matter is, if a company asks for it, you need to submit it .
Several hiring managers surveyed mentioned that merely requiring people to submit a cover letter acts as a screening mechanism for on-the-fence applicants.
Get help editing. There are plenty of apps out there, like Hemingway or Grammarly, that can help you do basic editing and spell check, as well as the built-in editing programs that most word processors have.
The more advanced and paid apps will check for the use of the active tense, measure the reading level, and highlight adverbs. They can make a big difference in helping you sound like a polished professional.
Don’t stop there, though. Ask a friend or family member to look over your cover letter. They’re more likely to catch little awkward phrases that you failed to notice after re-reading it 30 times. They can also point out ways to improve the tone of your cover letter, which might be difficult for you to pick up on after spending so much time on it.
Display your writing ability. Make sure you’re using concise, articulate sentences.
Again, you only have about 200 words to sell yourself, so every 10 words of fluff wastes 5% of time you could be showing how you’re an excellent fit for the position. Strong, declarative sentences in the active voice make a bigger impact than wishy-washy language in the passive voice.
For example, compare the active sentence “I managed a team of 25 sales representatives” with the passive sentence “A team of 25 sales representatives was managed by me.” That’s an extreme example, but there are more subtle moments when you may accidentally slip into the passive voice and hurt your writing quality.
Focus on how you can bring value to the company. It’s not about what the company can offer you; it’s about what you can offer the company. For example:
Good: My experience creating a sales team in my previous position would allow me to jump into your company and get sales started. Bad: This role would give me a great chance to advance my sales career.
The best way to demonstrate your value is to discuss your previous accomplishments . Always give numbers where you can, because they speak to recruiters’ and hiring managers’ appetites for results.
Keep the cover letter relevant to the position. If the company wants a graphic designer , don’t talk about your favorite marketing tactics to get new clients.
Keep the whole cover letter laser-focused on the needs of the position at hand and brag about ways your experience helps the specific problems associated with the position.
The best way to learn what’s relevant is to read the job description carefully . Highlight active verbs in one color and adjectives in a different color.
Then, think of how your previous experience aligns with those responsibilities and traits. That way, you’ll have plenty of truthful examples that align perfectly with the keywords from the job posting.
Never use a copy and paste template. Every cover letter should be customized to the position and company as every position has something unique about it.
While you can use templates and case studies to get a sense of how to write a good cover letter, don’t just use the built-in cover letters in Microsoft Word.
Remember that hiring managers and recruiters comb through hundreds of cover letters — if you don’t take the time to make each one interesting, you can’t expect them to take the time to give you a chance.
Highlight important achievements. Only use accomplishments that relate to the needs of the position at hand.
You want to showcase how you can repeat the achievement for the hiring company. The end result of highlighting your achievement shows how you will add value to the new organization.
Remember our advice from above — quantify every accomplishment you can. It makes it easier for the hiring manager to understand how your past results indicate future success with a similar task or responsibility.
Cover letters let you show your ability to communicate. A good cover letter is like a firm handshake ; it’s how a hiring manager generates a first impression.
A strong cover letter essentially demonstrates your ability to take all these tips and incorporate them in a succinct and effective way.
Use full sentences. Remember that you’re writing for a potential manager. Aim to write in full sentences that each communicate an idea.
The only exception is if you choose to incorporate bullet points into your cover letter. In that case, each bullet point can be a sentence fragment, as long as it’s clear what you’re expressing.
Hiring managers look for attention to detail in cover letters. Every single hiring manager looks for spelling mistakes and grammar issues. The basic saying goes, “If you can’t spend enough time to proofread your cover letter, how will you ever pay attention to detail on a daily basis”.
Hiring managers normally have so many applicants that they look for reasons not to advance past cover letters . Don’t give them a simple reason to move you into the reject pile by forgetting to change the name of the company or using their wrong address.
Try to include some numbers to back up your accomplishments. There’s a reason BuzzFeed lists always include numbers in the title — numbers resonate well with people and get them engaged.
If you managed a budget, mention the size. If you increased revenue, by how much? A team of people, how many?
It will give the hiring manager a sense of the magnitude of your experience.
If you’re having trouble, think:
Scale. “Oversaw a warehouse of 25 employees and $500,000 worth of merchandise”
Range. “Published 5-8 articles a month”
Rate. “Increased sales by 15% over three months”
Frequency. “Performed daily check-ins with new clients”
Don’t repeat your resume. This piece of advice is a bit tricky. You want to mention your achievements and experience without going into the nitty-gritty detail.
Think of your resume as answering the who/what/where/when while your cover letter focuses on the why and how. Go into more detail about your past accomplishments, describe how your experience could help solve the company’s issues, and discuss trends in the industry like an expert (if you can do so competently).
Re-read the job description to ensure that you’re using your cover letter to shine a magnifying glass on the most impressive aspects of your background featured in your resume.
Research the company . Every company should have a website — read it.
Most sites have an “About Us” section that communicates company values and ideas. Even if no such page exists, you should be able to get a sense of the company through the marketing and branding on the site.
You can also read through employee reviews, look up company representatives and/or high-ranking employees on LinkedIn, or check for any social media activity that gives you a sense of the company culture .
Take the values of the company and try to incorporate them into the cover letter.

Reference the position and/or company you are applying for. Pretty straightforward reminder here.
You don’t (read shouldn’t) need to be super cliche and start with “My name is Chris Kolmar and I’m applying for the editor role at Zippia .”
Instead, talk about a general work passion or a passion you have for the company. Make it easy for the recipient to understand from the get-go what job you want and why you’re perfect for it.
Add a hint of personality. While the cover letter aims to demonstrate how you’d add value to the company, no one said it has to be boring.
If you have a personality, let it show through subtly. You don’t need to be a ninja or a guru, but if you try to make your cover letter a bit more fun, it may provide that little extra spice to get you an interview request.
Hiring managers aren’t just reading these things for the qualifications and skills — if possible, they’d also like to hire someone who they and their teams will get along with.
Don’t sell yourself short. You have no need for self doubt on a cover letter.
Never include lines like “I’m sure you’re getting candidates much more qualified than me, but..” or “I’ve never done this before, but…”
Focus on how your specific experiences and abilities would allow you to do the job. If you don’t think you can do the job, why would a hiring manager think otherwise?
When available, submit your cover letter as a PDF file. PDFs have a bunch of advantages :
They maintain formatting as they get passed around and printed
They can’t be edited easily between when you submit it and it meets its intended target
They can be read across most devices (including smartphones)
Unfortunately, some sites only accept .txt or .doc files, so PDFs aren’t an option there.
But if you can control it, go PDF.
Don’t be overly formal. Save the over the top formalities and greetings for country clubs and renaissance fairs.
The intro to the cover letter should focus on creating a rapport with the reader in some way. Talk to them like you were sitting across the table at an interview , not a debutante ball.
“Dear Sir or Madam” is out, as is “ To Whom It May Concern .” “Dear Hiring Manager” has it’s place, but consider one of its alternatives if you can’t find the recipient’s name.
Sell yourself in 200 words. That’s the entire exercise of a cover letter. It’s your written elevator pitch .
By the end of the letter, you should feel comfortable that it reflects what you’ve accomplished and how it can be applied to help the hiring company’s needs.
Just don’t continue to ramble on or you’ll lose the reader very quickly.
Make the cover letter readable and, ideally, skimmable. While you need to write in full sentences, you don’t need to write four sentence paragraphs with 25 words per sentence.
Put different thoughts on new lines and get the gist across on the first line of a paragraph.
It’s like reading this post. If you just read each of the 31 points, you’d know the gist of what I’m talking about without reading the detail below them.
Open strong to get them hooked. In journalism, there’s the concept of the inverted pyramid which states that your lede (intro) should tell the main point of the story right off the bat.
Put differently, lead with your best stuff .
Get them interested in learning more about you right away and don’t save the punch line for the last sentence.
Express enthusiasm. It’s good to give a hiring manager a sense of why you’re applying to this place/position. There are very likely many openings with the same title and responsibilities, so why does this particular job stand out to you ?
Reasons could be that it’s a product you’ve used in the past and enjoyed. It could be because of the direction you see the company going in. Or it could be the values and culture of the company that speak to you.
Let the reader know why.
Don’t be overawed. It’s good to express enthusiasm, but you don’t want to sound like a tween at a boy band concert trying to get your crush’s autograph.
That’s not how you want to start out your relationship with an employer.
Hiring companies want you to have a passion for the brand or product, but communicate it subtly and with professionalism. Respect and compliments have their place in cover letters, but careful you don’t cross the line into creepy super fandom.
Don’t try to be funny. There’s a reason it’s hard to be a comedian . Unless you think you have a really strong understanding of the hiring manager’s humor, you probably shouldn’t include any jokes or sarcasm.
At some level, you want to minimize the risks of a cover letter, and humor is a high-risk proposition with limited upside.
Try to find another way to be memorable.
Use a standard font and font size. Using a different font, like trying to be funny, has a lot of downside with not a ton of upside.
Sure you might look the look of Comic Sans or Arial Bold, but why put off a hiring manager that’s expecting Times New Roman or Arial?
Keep it simple and stick no frills fonts like:
Times New Roman
Use as few words as possible to get your meaning across. When trying to impress people, some have a tendency to use big words and long, complex sentences. It’s rarely a good idea.
“In my last job, I synergized with people from other departments on a regular basis to execute on our detailed marketing plans.” or “In my last job, I worked on a cross functional team to further the company’s main objectives.”
Less is more.
Don’t stress out over every detail. There are a ton of guides out there like this one and we suggest reading them all.
You’ll learn the important takeaways that act as kind of a reminder on the wall of what goes into a good cover letter . Write those down.
After you’ve produced a first draft, go check the draft against the takeaways and see if there’s anything to add/remove/change.
Rinse and repeat until you get what you think is a solid end result.
Be yourself. At the end of the day, your cover letter becomes a reflection of yourself, experiences, and values.
You need to be comfortable with everything you say on it. So feel free to break the rules and suggestions we laid out here if they don’t feel right for you.
Just don’t forget to gauge the results — if a certain style of cover letter-writing isn’t working for you, adjust and improve.
Finish strong. Even if it’s just a sentence or two, take the time to tie up your cover letter with a bow. Reiterate what your goal is in writing, give a call to action, and thank the reader for their time. It doesn’t take much, but closing well will solidify the good impression you’ve built with the rest of your letter.
Example Cover Letter
Chris Kolmar 222-222-2222 | Atlanta, GA | [email protected] June 18, 2022 Tessa Moore Marketing Director Citrix 4444 N Marlin St. Atlanta, GA 33333 Dear Tessa Moore, I’ve spent the last four-plus years developing a team that studies the underbelly of the internet — how do people find sites, what makes people take action when they get there, and why do they share sites with friends. Through this experience, I’ve gained skills in SEO, driving organic website traffic, and increasing the conversion rate of landing pages. I want to apply these skills as the Marketing Manager Of Customer Acquisition at Citrix. At Movoto, I put together a team of about 20 people focused on customer acquisition across all online marketing channels. During that time, we increased traffic 5x to 21 million visits per month by utilizing SEO, content marketing, and paid acquisition. Developing a similar team at Citrix could open up new avenues for customer acquisition. We would conduct user interviews, competitor analysis, and market research with the aim of creating a detailed acquisition plan. The plan would be tailored to our target audience, demonstrate how Citrix products help them get more done, and communicate the brand. I look forward to discussing my skills and experience with you, and how I would be a good fit at Citrix, in the near future. Sincerely, Chris Kolmar
Final Thoughts
Along with resumes, cover letters are part-and-parcel of the job application process. While your resume acts as a billboard that grabs a recruiter or hiring manager’s attention, your cover letter is more like a movie trailer .
You want the reader to be so intrigued by what you’re offering that they have no choice but to call you in for an interview to learn more.
Cover letters can be scary to write, especially if you’re unsure of your writing abilities. Just remember that cover letters also follow a pretty standard format — your job is just to fill in the blanks in a way that makes sense for you and the job you’re applying for.
Don’t get paralyzed trying to incorporate all 31 tips from above right away. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start with a judgment-free draft and then use these tips to refine what you’ve written.
With a little work, you’ll have a perfect cover letter in no time.
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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.
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How to Write a Cover Letter in 2023 | Beginner's Guide

After weeks of heavy job search, you’re almost there!
You’ve perfected your resume.
You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.
You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.
But then, before you can send your application and call it a day, you remember that the job ad requires a cover letter.
Now you’re stuck wondering how to write a cover letter ...
Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think.
In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.
- What’s a cover letter & why it’s important for your job search
- How to write a convincing cover letter that gets you the job (step-by-step!)
- How to perfect your cover letter with the Novoresume free checklist
- What excellent cover letter examples look like
New to cover letter writing? Give our resumes 101 video a watch before diving into the article!
So, let’s get started with the basics!
What is a Cover Letter? (and Why It’s Important)
A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application (alongside your CV or Resume).
Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .
A good cover letter can spark the HR manager’s interest and get them to read your resume.
A bad cover letter, on the other hand, might mean that your application is going directly to the paper shredder. So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.
How does a good cover letter look, you might ask. Well, here’s an example:

Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you don’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume.
If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, writing all this might seem pretty tough. After all, you’re probably not a professional writer.

The thing is, though, you don’t need to be creative, or even any good at writing. All you have to do is follow a tried-and-tested format:
- Header - Input contact information
- Greeting the hiring manager
- Opening paragraph - Grab the reader’s attention with 2-3 of your top achievements
- Second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job
- Third paragraph - Explain why you’re a good match for the company
- Formal closing
Or, here’s what this looks like in practice:

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter (And Get Hired!)
Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, we’re going to guide you through the process of writing a cover letter step by step.
Step #1 - Pick the Right Cover Letter Template
A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.
So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, visual template?

You can simply pick one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in a jiffy!
As a bonus, our AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter on the go.
Step #2 - Start the Cover Letter with a Header
As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with a Contact Information section:

Here, you want to include all essential information, including:
- Phone Number
- Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
- Name of the company you’re applying to
In certain cases, you might also consider adding:
- Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
- Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your blog.
And here’s what you shouldn’t mention in your header:
- Your Full Address
- Unprofessional Email - Make sure your email is presentable. It’s pretty hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Whenever applying for jobs, stick to the “[first name] + [last name] @ email provider.com” format.

Step #3 - Greet the Hiring Manager
Once you’ve properly listed your contact information, you need to start writing the cover letter contents.
The first thing to do here is to address the cover letter to the hiring manager .
That’s right, the hiring manager! Not the overly popular “Dear Sir or Madam.” You want to show your future boss that you did your research and are really passionate about working with their team.
No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes to get hired in any of them.
So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager? There are several ways to do this.
The simplest option is to look up the head of the relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably Head of Communications or Chief Communications Office.
So, you do a quick lookup on LinkedIn:

And voila! You have your hiring manager.
Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of a server. In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager.”
If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.
Here are several other greetings you could use:
- Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
- Dear Hiring Manager
- To whom it may concern
- Dear [Department] Team
Step #4 - Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction
First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.
Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.
So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph .
The #1 problem we see with most cover letter opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Most of them look something like this..
- Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.
See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say pretty much anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.
Do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.
Instead, you want to start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.
So now, let’s make our previous example shine:
My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed their sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the job.
See the difference between the two examples? If you were the hiring manager, which sales manager would you hire, Jonathan or Michael?
Now that we’ve covered the introduction, let’s talk about the body of your cover letter. This part is split into two paragraphs: the first is for explaining why you’re the perfect person for the job, and the latter is for proving that you’re a good fit for the company.
So, let’s get started...
Step #5 - Explain why you’re the perfect person for the job
This is where you show off your professional skills and convince the HR manager that you’re a better fit for the job than all the other applicants.
But first things first - before you even write anything, you need to learn what the most important requirements for the role are. So, open up the job ad and identify which of the responsibilities are the most critical.
For the sake of the example, let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. You scan the job ad and see that the top requirements are:
- Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
- Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
- Excellent copywriting skills
Now, in this section, you need to discuss how you fulfill these requirements. So, here’s how that would look for our example:
In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation & management process end-to-end. Meaning, I created the ad copy , images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.
Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:
- Google Search
Are you a student applying for your first internship? You probably don’t have a lot of work experience to show off in this section. Learn how to write an internship cover letter here.
Step #6 - Explain why you’re a good fit for the company
Once you’ve written the last paragraph, you might be thinking - I’m a shoo-in for the job! What else do I need to write? I’ll just wrap up the cover letter and hit that sweet SEND button.
Well, no. You’re not quite there yet.
The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.
After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary .
Meaning, you also need to convince the HR manager that you’re really passionate about working with them.
How do you do this? Well, as a start, you want to do some research about the company. You want to know things like:
- What’s the company’s business model?
- What’s the company product or service? Have you used it?
- What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?
So, get to Googling. Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or somewhere around the web.
Then, you need to figure out what you like about the company and turn that into text.
Let’s say, for example, you’re passionate about their product and you like the culture of innovation / independent work in the organization.
You’d write something like:
I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2 were real game changers for the device.
I really admire how Company XYZ thrives for excellence for all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone that thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I and Company XYZ will be a great match.
What you don’t want to do here is be super generic for the sake of having something to write. Most job seekers tend to mess this one up. Let’s take a look at a very common example we tend to see (way too often):
I’d love to work for Company XYZ because of its culture of innovation. I believe that since I’m super creative, I’d be a good fit for the company. The company values of integrity and transparency really vibe with me.
See what’s wrong here? The example doesn’t really say anything about the company. “Culture of Innovation” is something most companies claim to have.
The same goes for “values of integrity and transparency” - the writer just googled what the values for the organization are, and said that they like them.
Any hiring manager that reads this will see through the fluff.
So, make sure to do a lot of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying.
Step #7 - Wrap up with a call to action
Finally, it’s time to finish up your cover letter and write the conclusion.
In the final paragraph, you want to:
- Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? Any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision? Mention it here.
- Thank the hiring manager for their time. It never hurts to be courteous, as long as you don’t come off as too needy.
- Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. You should ask the hiring manager to take some sort of action.
And now, let’s turn this into a practical example:
So to wrap it all up, thanks for looking into my application. I hope I can help Company X make the most out of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your facebook marketing goals.
Step #8 - Use the right formal closing
Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.
Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions to a cover letter:
- Best Regards,
- Kind Regards,
And we’re finally done! Before sending off the cover letter, make sure to proofread it with software like Grammarly, or maybe even get a friend to review it for you.
Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?
- Professional email
- Relevant Social Media Profiles
Do you address the right person? I.e. hiring manager in the company / your future direct supervisor
Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?
- Did you mention 2-3 of your top achievements?
- Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
Do you successfully convey that you’re the right pro for the job?
- Did you identify the core requirements?
- Did you successfully convey how your experiences help you fit the requirements perfectly?
Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?
- Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
- Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?
Did you finalize the conclusion with a call to action?
Did you use the right formal closure for the cover letter?
5+ Cover Letter Examples
Need some inspiration? Read on to learn about some of the best cover letter examples we’ve seen (for different fields).
College Student Cover Letter Example

Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Career Change Cover Letter Example

Management Cover Letter Example

Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Want to discover more examples AND learn what makes them stand out? Check out our guide to cover letter examples .
Next Steps in Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume
Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application is for naught.
After all, a cover letter is just an introduction. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression, but flopping at the end because of a mediocre resume.
...But don’t you worry, we’ve got you covered on that end, too.
If you want to learn more about Resumes & CVs, we have a dedicated FREE guide for that. Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume , as well as how to write a CV - our experts will teach you everything you need to know in order to land your dream job.
Or, if you’re already an expert, just pick one of our resume templates and get started.

Key Takeaways
Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:
- A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that convinces the hiring manager of your competence
- A cover letter goes in your job application alongside your resume
- Your introduction to the cover letter should grab the hiring manager’s attention and keep it all the way until the conclusion
- There are 2 main topics you need to include in your cover letter: why you’re the perfect candidate for the job & why you’re passionate about working in the company you’re applying to
- Most of the content of your cover letter should be factual , without any fluff or generalizations
At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve, every step of the way! Follow our blog to stay up to date with the industry-leading advice. Or, check out some of our top guides…
- How to Write a Motivational Letter
- How to Write a Resume with No Work Experience
- Most Common Interview Questions and Answers

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How to Write a Cover Letter

Why do you need to know how to write a cover letter? Picture this: You've found the perfect job, hit the "apply" button, and started the process with your engines revved and ready. But wait! Slam the brakes!
They want a cover letter.
Don't let this request derail you. This article will show you how to write a cover letter by using our easy-to-follow cover letter template. Here’s what we’ll cover:
- What is a cover letter?
- Do I need to send a cover letter?
- What are the basic elements of a cover letter?
- How to write a cover letter
- Cover letter tips
- Cover letter sample
We know writing about yourself can be especially tricky, but in order to have a successful job search, you really do need to make a cover letter that sells your skills to a hiring manager. Scroll down to see a free cover letter that you can use to craft your own.
What Is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that, along with your resume , is sent with your job application. A cover letter is your chance to tell a potential employer why you're the perfect person for the position and how your skills and expertise can add value to the company. The letter should be professional but personable and serve as a sort of introduction.
Do I Need to Send a Cover Letter?
A lot of job seekers today wonder if a cover letter is still appropriate to send with your resume—and the answer is yes! Even if an employer doesn't ask for a cover letter, it couldn't hurt to send one. In fact, it can help you get someone's attention in a different way, and it can be a great way to display your enthusiasm for the job and company.
What Are the Basic Elements of a Cover Letter?
These five steps are the basis of how to write a cover letter:
- Greeting : Address your cover letter to the proper person.
- Opening : Write a personable, inviting opening paragraph that notes how your skills are a perfect fit to the job and displays your enthusiasm.
- Hook : Highlight your past achievements as they relate to the job you're applying for.
- Skills : Emphasize additional relevant skills, such as computer languages or certifications.
- Close : Briefly recap your strengths as a candidate, and include your contact information.
We’ll show you how to write a cover letter, section by section.
1. Cover Letter Header
Begin by including both your and the employer’s contact information in your header, along with the date.
Sample Cover Letter Header:
Your First and Last Name Your City, State and Zip Code Your Phone Number Your Email
First and Last Name of Hiring Manager Hiring Manager’s Job Title Company Name Company’s Address
2. Cover Letter Greeting
The salutation is very important. If you know the hiring manager’s name, definitely use it. If not, do some research on LinkedIn or the company’s website to find it, or just address the letter to the hiring manager. Avoid the cliché “To Whom It May Concern.”
Sample Cover Letter Greetings:
- Dear Dr. Martin,
- Hello Ms. Smith,
- Dear Hiring Manager,
3. Cover Letter Opening
The hardest part of the cover letter-writing process is knowing how to start a cover letter. Your cover letter introduction needs to grab the hiring manager’s attention, so they want to keep reading.
- Begin by clearly identifying why you’re reaching out to a company and what job you’re applying for in case your cover letter is separated from your resume. Also include up front where you saw the ad for the position and who recommended you, if applicable.
- Next, compliment the organization on what they’ve done right and what you admire about them. Hiring managers want to know that you've done your homework on the company.
- And finally, explain why you’re the right fit for the job by highlighting your achievements.
Sample Cover Letter Introduction:
“I am writing to you today to apply to the Sales Representative position in your Stamford office. I’ve been a long-time fan of your ultralight camping stoves, and I admire your dedication to creating lightweight backpacking cookware that doesn’t compromise on quality. Last year, I earned $2 million in sales (exceeding my sales goal by 30%) and landed the top sales award in my company’s national organization. I live for the thrill of a good sale and am looking forward to possibly contributing my sales savvy to your company.”
4. Cover Letter Body
In the next paragraph or two, describe who you are and what makes you stand out from other applicants. Refer to the job ad for clues for how to write a cover letter for the specific position you’re applying to. Focus on the key skills and responsibilities the ad is targeting and let that guide which qualifications you highlight.
Discuss your soft skills and strengths and what you're passionate about professionally. Then, provide relevant examples of work you’ve done that matches what the company is looking for. Bullet points work well in making your accomplishments easy to read.
Sample Cover Letter Body:
“As a project coordinator at ABC Company, I was responsible for overseeing projects across all departments. Specifically, I:
- Met with key stakeholders to set project goals.
- Developed a project timeline.
- Identified, measured, and tracked key metrics.
- Anticipated and controlled for potential obstacles.
- Ensured that projects met their deadlines.
I am organized, efficient, and skilled at distilling a big idea down to a set of concrete, actionable steps. My ability to communicate with stakeholders across departments allows me unique insight into how a company functions and how to bridge gaps between teams to reach consensus and accomplish ambitious goals.”
5. Cover Letter Closing
In your closing paragraph , express your enthusiasm for the position and an interview and include a plan of action. State what the next steps will be. If you will wait for the company’s reply, tell them that. If you will be following up, tell them when they can expect to hear from you. Above all, your conclusion should be formal and appreciative.
Sample Cover Letter Conclusion:
“Thank you for your time and consideration. I would love to set up a time to talk about how my hiring, recruiting, and retention strategies will help your company to drive DEI. I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon. You can reach me on my cell phone at (555) 555-5555 or via email at [email protected].”
6. Cover Letter Signature
End your cover letter with a formal closing.
Common Cover Letter Signoffs:
- Kind regards,
Cover Letter Tips
Almost ready to get started? Here are some quick do’s and don’ts for how to write a cover letter.
How to Write a Cover Letter: Do’s
- Add Cover Letter Keywords: Just like with your resume, your cover letters should be customized for each job you apply to. Use these tips to create a cover letter template, and then fill in the specific details for each position. Start by reviewing the job description . In it, you will find important keywords that let you know what kind of employee the company is hoping to find. Use these same keywords throughout your cover letter.
- Adapt for the company: Each version of your cover letter should talk about how your skills will benefit the particular company that you want to work for. You want to target the company's needs—not your own. Demonstrate how you could help them achieve their goals. Remember: You're selling yourself in a resume and a cover letter, but the employer has to want to buy.
- Show you "get" them: Your cover letter should demonstrate that you have done some research into what the organization's pain points are. Presenting yourself as a solution to a hiring manager's problem can help your cover letter take the right tone. If you're applying to an administrative position, be sure to mention your time-management skills; if you're an IT professional, include your expertise in improving efficiency. Always ask yourself: How can I help this company?
- Proofread: Don't assume spell check will catch every mistake (it won't). Slowly review your cover letter to make sure everything reads properly. Have someone else read your cover letter for backup.
How to Write a Cover Letter: Don’ts
- Don't repeat yourself: Don't regurgitate everything that's in your resume—offer deeper insights into what your resume doesn’t say. Provide an in-depth explanation of some of your key achievements at your last job, for instance, and how those accomplishments could help the company. Or tell a story about a tough problem you solved.
- Check your ego : While you certainly want to appear competent, arrogance can turn a recruiter off, so don’t say, "Throw away all those other resumes—I'm your guy!" Show enthusiasm and a positive attitude, but don't overdo it.
- Avoid form letters: The point of a cover letter is to make a personal connection with the reader. Tailor your letter specifically to each company you send it to. Plus, recruiters can see form cover letters from a mile away.
Read More Cover Letter Tips
Need even more confidence before you start your cover letter? Below are some additional tips for how to write a cover letter you could reference—or keep scrolling for a cover letter sample:
Cover Letter Mistakes You Should Avoid : From overusing "I" to being too vague, there are a bunch of pitfalls that can trip you up. Don't let them!
Cover Letter Format and Advice Tips : Learn how to set up your cover letter and what each section should include.
How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience : You might lack real-world work experience, but your cover letter can be chock-full of activities that demonstrate your potential to succeed.
Cover Letter Tips for Technology Professionals : The ease of applying to online jobs has led many IT professionals to skip sending a cover letter, but that's a mistake.
Cover Letter Tips for Finance Professionals : If you're searching for a finance job or want to be prepared just in case, you will need a dynamic cover letter to grab the hiring managers' attention.
Tips for Better Email Cover Letters : If you're emailing a resume, your cover letter will deliver the first impression. These eight tips will help you craft a better email cover letter.
Cover Letter Sample
Check out the sample cover letter below (or download the cover letter template as a Word doc ) to get some inspiration to show you how to write a cover letter for your particular situation.
Ms. Rhonda West Customer Service Manager Acme Inc. 123 Corporate Blvd. Sometown, CO 50802
Re: Customer Service Representative Opening (Ref. ID: CS300-Denver)
Dear Ms. West:
I was excited to see your opening for a customer service rep, and I hope to be invited for an interview.
My background includes serving as a customer service associate within both call-center and retail environments. Most recently, I worked on the customer service desk for Discount-Mart, where my responsibilities included handling customer merchandise returns, issuing refunds/store credits, flagging damaged merchandise for shipment back to vendors and providing back-up cashiering during busy periods.
Previously, I worked within two high-volume customer-support call centers for a major telecommunications carrier and a satellite television services provider. In these positions, I demonstrated the ability to resolve a variety of issues and complaints (such as billing disputes, service interruptions or cutoffs, repair technician delays/no-shows and equipment malfunctions). I consistently met my call-volume goals, handling an average of 56 to 60 calls per day.
In addition to this experience, I gained considerable customer service skills during my part-time employment as a waitress and restaurant hostess while in high school.
I also bring to the table strong computer proficiencies in MS Word, MS Excel and CRM database applications and a year of college (business major). Please see the accompanying resume for details of my experience and education.
I am confident that I can offer you the customer service, communication and problem-solving skills you are seeking. Feel free to call me at 555-555-5555 (home) or 555-555-5500 (cell) to arrange an interview. Thank you for your time—I look forward to learning more about this opportunity!
Enclosure: Resume
Cover Letter Examples
Want to see more cover letter examples? We’ve got you covered if you're looking for a cover letter in a specific industry . Or, take a look at some of our most popular cover letters below:
- Nursing Cover Letter
- Teaching Cover Letter
- Customer Service Cover Letter
- Medical Assistant Cover Letter
- Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
How's That Resume Looking?
Now that you know how to write a cover letter, you'll want to make sure your resume is just as impressive. Ready to get started? Get a free resume assessment from Monster to double-check that your application is as strong as possible. We'll give your resume a professional overview and tell you where you need to make some improvements. It's quick and easy, and your career will thank you.
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How to Start a Cover Letter to Impress Employers [+ 14 Examples]

Published: August 11, 2021
According to Career Builder, 40% of recruiters look for a cover letter when they're considering job applicants.

But if you had to flip through a hundred cover letters a day, and each one began, "To whom it may concern, I am applying for the digital marketing position at your company ...", how important would you rank them?
Your cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your personality, display your interest in the job, and include relevant information that otherwise wouldn't be surfaced in your application. An ideal cover letter leaves the hiring manager with a positive and memorable impression of you, something a resume alone won't always do.
To help you overcome writer's block and hook your reader right away, take a look at some sharp opening sentences you can use for inspiration.
5 Free Cover Letter Templates
Fill out this form to access your cover letters., creative cover letter opening sentence examples.
- This position has me written all over it.
- I've wanted to work in [your industry] since [this moment of inspiration].
- Although [current employee] suggested I apply for this position, I don't just want to work with my former colleague again -- I want to join all of you in transforming the industry.
- I like to think of myself as a round peg thriving in a square hole kind of world.
- Aside from the requisite industry bona-fides in my CV, I bring the following to the table:
- Last year, I generated [this much money] in revenue for my company, generated [this many leads], and almost tripled our social media ROI.
- You might not know me, but your client services team certainly does, and now I want to join the vendor that made me such a successful [type of professional].
- When I discovered [name of company] was hiring, I knew I had to apply.
- I considered submitting my latest credit card statement as proof of just how much I love online shopping, but I thought a safer approach might be writing this cover letter, describing all the reasons why I'm the person who can take [name of ecommerce company] to the next level.
- You might compete with my current employer, but why can't we be friends?
- As a [current job position] with high-level management experience in the [industry], I learned that the best way to achieve success was to [biggest lesson you've learned].
- I understand that you have been deluged with resumes since you've been listed as one of the best companies to work for. Mine is one more, but I do have experience that is hard to come by.
Read on to find out 14 ways to grab an employer's attention with an exceptional cover letter introduction.
Featured Resource: 5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Start off your cover letter (and finish it) with a bang with 5 Free Cover Letter Templates. The templates are professional and completely customizable to help you get your dream job.
How to Start a Cover Letter
1. start with humor..
Employers are humans too, and they'll often appreciate a good joke, pun, or funny opening line as much as the next person. If done tastefully and respectfully, starting your cover letter off with a joke can be an excellent way to stand out.
Plus, a joke can still include a powerful explanation for why you're the right person for the job, without coming off as boastful. For instance, think about something you love to do or something you're really good at, and then imagine how friends or family might make a joke about it -- if you're really good at analyzing data, for example, a joke or pun related to that might be a good way to exemplify both your skills and personality.
Here's a good example of using humor to bring attention to your skills, from The Muse (you'll notice this is one of our picks for most creative opening lines, earlier in this article):
"I considered submitting my latest credit card statement as proof of just how much I love online shopping, but I thought a safer approach might be writing this cover letter, describing all the reasons why I'm the girl who can take Stylight's business to the next level."
Why This Works
Right away, the personality displayed here grabs the reader's attention. Even better, this applicant uses humor to convey an important message to the employer -- she loves shopping, and she's well-versed in ecommerce as a consumer -- which might've otherwise not come up on her resume or phone screening.
2. Start with passion.
For an employer to know you'll stay dedicated to the role and company, they'll want to ensure you're passionate about what the job entails. Passion is more incentivizing than a paycheck.
For an employer, demonstrating how your passion matches the required skillset is a promising sign that you'd enjoy your job -- if you enjoy your job, you're more likely to stick around longer, help drive company growth, and become a dedicated member of the team.
Consider starting your cover letter with a few lines that showcase your passion: "I've been passionate about writing since I was ten years old. My love for writing has led me to write two personal travel blogs, get published in a local newspaper, and pursue two summer internships at publishing firms. Now, I'd love the opportunity to combine my writing skills with my interest in storytelling as a content marketer at Company A."
If you don't have extensive work experience in the industry you're trying to break into, but you've been unofficially preparing for years, let the employer know. In the above example, the candidate's resume would probably look weak, with only internships indicating professional experience. Her cover letter introduction, however, shows the employer she's been writing for audiences and advancing her natural ability for years.
3. Start with an accomplishment.
Employers like seeing numbers. It isn't enough to mention you're a "digital marketer with proven success in SEO strategies." Proven success? Okay, can we see?
It's more powerful to provide statistics. You want to show the employer you're capable of solving for long-term results. How have you contributed to your company's bottom line? For instance, did your Facebook marketing campaign grow your social media following, or has your blog content increased organic traffic?
Consider starting your cover letter with something like this: "Over the past year as digital marketing manager at Company A, I've generated $30k+ in revenue, increased organic traffic to our blog by 14%, and almost tripled our social media ROI."
Even if you don't have the work experience to report impressive numbers, you can still offer proof when opening with an accomplishment. Think about the qualitative feedback you've received from employers. For instance, how would your boss compliment you or tell you you're doing a good job? An accomplishment can be as simple as your boss sending you an appreciative email regarding your diligent meeting notes.
In this example from The Muse , the applicant provides an example of a skill for which he's been previously acknowledged: "My last boss once told me that my phone manner could probably diffuse an international hostage situation. I've always had a knack for communicating with people -- the easygoing and the difficult alike -- and I'd love to bring that skill to the office manager position at Shutterstock."
Even though the applicant doesn't offer numbers as proof of success, they do manage to highlight some proof of their past performance in the form of a former boss's praise. The candidate's candid and funny explanation -- that his last boss liked his phone manners -- is another good way to brag about accomplishments without, well, bragging.

4. Start with excitement for the company.
Employers want to know why you like their company, and they'll appreciate an explanation on why you're interested. But it's imperative your reasoning is thoughtful and considerate, and specific to the company. For instance, if you're applying for a financial position, don't write about your interest in finance; write about how your interest in finance relates to the company's goals.
You don't want to just say, "I'm excited to work at Company A because I'm passionate about finance, and I think my skills and experiences will be a good match." Sure, you've explained why you want to work in the financial industry, but you've done nothing to explain why Company A specifically suits your interests.
Instead, you'll want to mention something about the company and culture in correlation to your interest in finance. Take a look at this example from Glassdoor : "When I discovered Accounting Solutions was hiring, I knew I had to apply. I've been waiting to find a company where I feel like I can make a difference while working as an accountant. Not only are your clients awesome, but the overall mission of your company is something I believe in, too."
This candidate shows they've done their research and care about Accounting Solutions in particular. Remember, employers want to hire people who have a demonstrated interest in working at their company. They want someone who will enjoy the nature of the work, but just as importantly, they want a candidate who enjoys the work culture and the company mission as well.
5. Start with news about the company.
Mentioning company news in your introduction indicates you've done research on the company. Plus, including company news might give you the chance to incorporate your own values, as well. If the company just won an award for its innovative solutions in the computer industry, for instance, you might add how you value forward-thinking methods in technology, as well.
Here's an example of an introduction that uses a newsworthy event, from Indeed : "When I saw that Company ABC was featured in Fortune Magazine last month for its commitment to renewable energy and reducing waste in the workplace -- all while experiencing triple-digit revenue growth -- I was inspired. With my track record of reducing costs by 30%+ and promoting greener workplaces, I'm excited about the possibility of taking on the account executive role to expand your company's growth and work towards a more sustainable future."
The candidate does a good job demonstrating how Company ABC's news aligns well with the candidate's personal achievements. She shows she's done her research on the company, and also indicates she values similar environmental efforts in the workplace.
6. Start with what they don't know.
According to one seasoned hiring manager , a cover letter that begins, "I am writing to apply for [open position] at [name of company]" is grounds for nearly instant rejection. Of course you're applying for this job -- why waste your lede with something so boring and obvious?
Your cover letter should never directly state what they already know -- or restate what's already listed on your resume. Instead, start your cover letter by offering something new, expanding on what the employer already knows about you, and presenting new details about what you can bring to the company. Impress employers by telling them something about your skills or experiences they don't already know.
To offer new information not displayed on his resume, one of my colleagues at HubSpot wrote this cover letter introduction: "My resume will tell you I'm Content Marketing Certified. Your records will tell you I've interviewed for a few different HubSpot positions in the past. What neither one will tell you is that I've been working with your customer success team to build a new campaign strategy for my company -- one of your latest (and largest) clients."
The candidate wrote an introduction that captured the reader's attention and demonstrated he wasn't interested in wasting anyone's time. This is a memorable and impressive tactic. Consider writing a similar introduction, where you provide information absent from your resume.
7. Start with what you can bring to the table.
A hiring manager here at HubSpot told me she always looks for cover letters to tell her how the company and applicant can benefit each other.
Any employer is going to want to know why you think you can grow from the position you're applying to. An employer is more inclined to hire you if she thinks you have a genuine, intrinsic motivation to work hard in the role.
A hiring manager is also going to want to know how you'll contribute to the company's larger vision and goals. It's important for the manager to know what you want to get out of the role, but it's equally important to know how you'll help the company grow. How will the company benefit from you, over someone else?
Here's an example: "I am seeking opportunities to improve my writing ability in a forward-thinking environment while growing organic traffic and optimizing content to beat out competitors in search engines. At Company A, I believe I will find that match."
See how it works? In the example above, the candidate explained how she'd benefit from the role. She also explained what Company A could get out of the transaction -- increased organic traffic, and optimized content -- so the hiring manager is informed of the equality of the potential relationship.
8. Start with a statement that surprises them.
When applying for a role at HubSpot, one of my colleagues began her cover letter like this: "I like to think of myself as a round peg thriving in a square hole kind of world."
Doesn't that make you want to keep reading? It certainly kept me interested. Of course, you'll only want to include a bold statement if you can follow it up with some concrete supporting information. My colleague, for example, continued by writing this: "What does this mean? It means that my diverse background makes me a well-rounded candidate who is able to comprehend, develop and execute various functions in business."
While the rest of her cover letter veered on the side of professional, her opening line was casual, quirky, and surprising. Plus, you feel her personality in the line, and when an employer feels like a real person is behind the cover letter, she's going to want to keep reading.
9. Start with a lesson you've learned in your career.
A great way to start a cover letter is with a lesson you've learned in your industry from your experience.
For example, you might say something like, " As a [current job position] with high-level management experience in the [industry], I learned that the best way to achieve success was to [biggest lesson you've learned]."
This opening sentence lets a recruiter know your experience level. Not only that, but it starts off with how you can benefit the company, not how the company will benefit you.
10. Start off with intrigue.
When you're applying to larger corporate companies, you know that recruiters are getting hundreds of applicants for one entry-level position.
It's important to intrigue the hiring manager and recognize that they're looking at several applicants.
For example, you could say, " I understand that you have been deluged with resumes since you've been listed as one of the best companies to work for. Mine is one more, but I do have experience that is hard to come by."
After this, it'd be great to list examples, stats, and experience that set you apart from other candidates and will benefit the company.
Recruiters see countless resumes and cover letters every day. It's important to start your cover letter in a unique way so you can stand out amongst the crowd.
11. Start with a mutual connection.
If an internal employee suggested you apply for a role at their company, don't be shy about highlighting that fact. Hiring Managers will want to see that you've been vetted — even informally — by someone else at the company. Recognizing the name of someone they know internally will likely persuade them to give you another look.
To do this tactfully, start with something like this: "At the suggestion of my old colleague Jane Smith, I am submitting my resume for your consideration for the senior copywriter position. Jane's knowledge and enthusiasm for Company X further convinced me that this is a company where my communication skills, passion for travel, and desire to be challenged can be met."
Why This Works
When the hiring manager sees a fellow employee can attest to your work ethic, it helps assuage any risk she might feel she's taking by hiring someone she doesn't know personally. Plus, it shows you've done your research and you're truly interested in the company itself — rather than sending off a slew of generic cover letters, you took the time to identify an internal connection.

12. Begin with your personal mission statement.
Don't have a personal mission statement? You might want to take some time to create one . A good mission statement can help hiring managers understand why you're passionate about what you do — which goes a long way towards ensuring you'll work hard in your next role.
A few examples on how you might start a cover letter with a personal mission statement look like this: "As a content creator, I believe inspiring readers through creative, persuasive copywriting is vital for helping them excel professionally."
Or: "As a leader, I believe encouraging innovation and creativity is critical for ensuring my employees can do their best work and improve the lives of our customers."
A manager can help you level up on certain key skills, but she can't teach you to love your job. By demonstrating an intrinsic motivation, you're essentially telling the hiring manager, "I know the importance of this role — so I won't slack off on it."
Editor's note: This post was originally published in May 2018 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

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The benefits of cover letter templates from resumenerd.
One of the most commonly given pieces of career advice is to do everything possible to make your cover letter and resume unique to each job application. So, with this in mind, why is it a good idea to use a cover letter template? First and foremost, it is important to remember that a cover letter template is not a pre-written cover letter. Instead, think of it as a skeleton design you can use to create an effective cover letter when you add your own information.
There are a range of benefits that come with using ResumeNerd professional cover letter templates. The most important benefits are:
- Convenience and simplicity
- Access to appropriate pre-built options that can fit any industry
- The ability to use matching cover letter and resume templates for a complementary job application
- Accelerate the process of applying for a job
- All ResumeNerd templates are designed to pass recruiter and ATS scans
In short, when you use a professional cover letter template you will find it easier to create tailored cover letters that look good and you will be able to write them at a quicker pace. This allows you to apply to more jobs while still submitting high quality cover letters and resumes. In fact, there are even creative cover letter templates for those who work in the arts or in creative technology roles. You can find more information on common cover letter formats at ResumeNerd.

The Most Important Elements of a Cover Letter Template
While different cover letter templates will have distinct appearances and features, they should all contain the same basic structural components:
Introduction and hook
Your header and introduction should include your full name and contact information. This means your phone number, email address, and perhaps professional social media details. If you have LinkedIn, you can include that information in this section.
First paragraph: summary of major achievements
Your opening paragraph should be a summary of you as a job seeker and present your most relevant achievements. For example, if you were applying for a new job as a high school teacher you might write:
“I am a highly motivated and passionate teacher who takes a flexible learning approach. In my last position I implemented a hands-on learning segment to lessons that resulted in the grade average in my class rising by x in one year.”
Second paragraph: your suitability for the company
When discussing why you are applying, you should mention the company name and the specific job title you are applying for as well as stating why you want to work with them. Once you have done this you should present reasons why you think you will fit in with the company culture. An example of this would be:
“I have long admired the student-first approach that [XYZ School] takes to education, and believe that my flexible approach to learning styles will enable students to reach their full potential.”
Third paragraph: call to action
A cover letter is a very short document and should be no more than one page long in most cases. This means that you have a limited time frame in which to impress hiring managers. End your cover letter with a call to action that invites follow up contact in order to grab their attention. Sign off with a formal statement such as “Sincerely Yours”.
When you place your information into this structure, you will have a functional and complete cover letter. The quality and persuasiveness of the cover letter depends on the content and your writing. Use active language and tailor what you say to the job description to make a good first impression. Do not repeat information from your resume, however.

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People who can benefit from cover letter templates.

Modern cover letter templates are becoming more and more sophisticated and, thanks to resume builders, easy to access. Despite this, some might feel that templates are not for them. The truth is that most people could benefit from using even the most basic cover letter templates. Those most likely to benefit are:
- People who are applying to many job postings
- Those who have never written a cover letter before
- Those who are changing their career and need cover letter tips for a new industry
Beyond this, even a simple cover letter template could provide many benefits to any job seeker. ResumeNerd has a free resume builder that offers a range of recruiter approved cover letter templates to choose from.
Cover Letter Examples

Web Developer Cover Letter Example

Teacher Cover Letter Example

Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Project Manager Cover Letter Example

Nursing Cover Letter Example

Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter Example

Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example

Financial Analyst Cover Letter Example

Dental Assistant Cover Letter Example

Customer Service Representative Cover Letter Example

Business Analyst Cover Letter Example

Acting Cover Letter Example
Faq: cover letter templates.
Yes, it is important that you include a cover letter with every job application that you submit. A cover letter presents a unique opportunity to present supplementary information about your skills and work experience. However, it is important to note that companies also expect cover letters. If you don’t provide one, the hiring manager may not take your application further
Unless a potential employer specifically requests another format, you should provide your cover letter as a PDF file. Our cover letter builder allows you to save your letter in PDF or MS Word formats.
Yes. You can take the time to create your own cover letter template and use it to create future cover letters. However, this is very time consuming and can be difficult. Using a cover letter template is far easier and can be more effective if these online templates are created by experts.
Build a Professional Cover Letter and Land the Job With ResumeNerd.
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How to write a cover letter.
A cover letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to think about your application.
It’s a short letter, usually 3 to 5 paragraphs long.
When to include a cover letter
You should always include a cover letter when you apply for a job using a CV.
You can write it as an email if you’re applying online or print a copy to go with a paper application.
When writing a cover letter, let the employer know you’re keen by showing that you’ve researched the company. Learn more about what they do through:
- their website
- recent news articles
- talking to people you know who work there
Send it to the right person
It's important to try to address your cover letter to someone by name. Check you have the details of the person you need to send it to.
You'll need their name and preferred title. For example, ‘Dr’, ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’, ‘Ms’, and their job title. You should also make sure you have the right company name and address, including postcode.
If you do not know their name
If the job advert does not include a name you can check the company website. Try to find details of the head of the department, head of human resources or a recruitment manager.
If you still cannot find a name, you can start your letter with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.
Introduction
Introduce yourself and explain how you found the advertised job. You can mention the job title, and reference number if there is one.
If you’re asking about any job openings and not applying to a vacancy, tell them what sort of job you’re looking for. Let the employer see how keen you are to work for them.
Show you're right for the job
Highlight the skills and experience you have that match what the employer is looking for.
Convince them that you're enthusiastic about working for them. Let them know you share their work values, culture and style.
Give extra information
If you have gaps in your employment history, you could talk about the skills you gained while you were out of work.
If you’ve mentioned on your CV that you have a disability, you might want to talk more about this in your cover letter. Organisations like Disability UK can give you advice on how to do this. You do not have to mention your disability at this stage if you prefer not to.
You can get more help with specialist advice on finding work if you have a disability.
Ending your cover letter
Thank the employer for considering your application. Let them know that they can get more details from your CV, and tell them you're looking forward to hearing from them.
Let them know how they can best contact you. Make sure your contact details are correct on both your cover letter and CV.
Yours sincerely or yours faithfully
If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with ‘Yours sincerely’.
If you’ve addressed the letter ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, you should end the letter with ‘Yours faithfully’.
Tips for writing a cover letter
When writing your cover letter, remember to:
- write a new one for every job you apply for and make sure it’s tailored to the company and the specific role
- use the same font and size as you do for your CV, so it looks consistent
- make sure the company name and recruiter’s details are correct
- use the right language and tone: keep it professional and match the keywords used by the employer in their job advert
- show you’ve done your research into the job and the company
- highlight your most relevant skills and experience to stand out from other applicants
- back up any statements you make with facts and use the STAR method
- double check spelling and grammar before you send it
- keep a copy of your cover letter as they may ask you about it in an interview
Related content
How to write a CV
Completing application forms
Interview tips
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Do I need a cover letter as a teacher?
If you're a teacher looking to land your dream job, crafting a compelling cover letter is an essential supplement to your resume.
A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume and serves as your professional introduction by highlighting your qualifications and explaining what makes you an ideal fit for the position.
And since 83% of recruiters agree that cover letters are influential when it comes to making hiring decisions, it’s a great idea to include it in your application.
But not any cover letter will do. Your cover letter needs to be well-written, crisp, and compelling.
In this guide, we will showcase some of the best teacher cover letter examples that you can use as a reference to write your own. We will also provide you with some insightful tips and best practices for cover letter writing.
- What is the purpose of a cover letter for a teaching job?
- What to include in a cover letter for a teaching job?
- What are some excellent teacher cover letter examples?
- What are some tips for writing a good teacher cover letter?
What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter for a Teaching Job?
As a teacher, your cover letter’s purpose is to help you showcase your passion for education, your teaching experience, and your skills in the classroom.
It should also provide insight into your teaching philosophy and how you can contribute to the school's mission and goals.
Your teacher cover letter should be tailored to each job you apply for and should highlight the specific skills and experiences that make you the best candidate for the position. It is designed to convince potential employers that you are the best candidate for the role.
A well-written and compelling cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants, increase your chances of getting an interview, and ultimately land your dream job.
Also Read: How to write a teacher's resume in 2023?
The Structure of a Teacher Cover Letter
Your teacher's cover letter should have a clear and concise structure that makes it easy to read and understand. Here's a basic outline you can follow:
Introduction: Begin your letter by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for.
Body: In the body of your letter, highlight your qualifications and experiences that make you the best fit for the job. Remember to use specific examples to demonstrate your teaching skills and accomplishments.
Closing: Conclude your letter by expressing your interest in the position and a strong CTA (Call to Action).
Also Read: What are some of the most commonly asked interview questions for special teacher jobs?
Teacher Cover Letter Examples
Given below are some teacher cover letter examples that you can refer to:
High School English Teacher Cover Letter Example
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I'm thrilled to apply for the High School English Teacher position at [School Name]. As a passionate and experienced educator with [Number of Years] years of experience teaching high school English, I believe I have the skills and experience necessary to excel in this role.
One of my greatest strengths is my ability to create engaging and challenging lessons that inspire students to think critically and creatively. I also have experience integrating technology into the classroom to enhance learning and engagement. Additionally, I have experience working with students of diverse backgrounds and abilities, and I'm committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming classroom for all.
In addition to my teaching experience, I have a Master's Degree in Education from [University Name] and have completed [Professional Development Course/Program]. I'm excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to [School Name] and contribute to the school's mission and goals.
I’d appreciate the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications and suitability with you on call or in person.
Thank you, [Your Name]
New Teacher Cover Letter Example
Dear [Hiring Manager],
As a recent graduate with a degree in Education and a Teacher Training certification, I am writing to express my strong interest in the teaching position at [School Name]. I am confident in my ability to make a positive impact in the classroom and contribute to the success of your school.
During my [Teaching Internship or Student Teaching] experience, I had the opportunity to work with [Grade Level] students at [Name of School]. I was responsible for developing and implementing lesson plans, assessing student progress, and creating a positive and inclusive learning environment. I gained valuable experience in classroom management and learned how to adapt my teaching style to meet the needs of each student.
My educational background and experience have prepared me to be a successful teacher. I have completed courses in [Relevant Subjects] and have a solid understanding of child development, educational psychology, and pedagogy. In addition, I am proficient in [Relevant Technology or Software] and am experienced in using technology to enhance the learning experience.
I’m eager to bring my passion for teaching and enthusiasm for learning to [School Name] and am confident that my skills, education, and dedication make me a strong candidate for this position. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Preschool Teacher Cover Letter Example

Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Example
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the Elementary Teacher position at your school. As a passionate educator with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and three years of teaching experience, I am confident in my ability to make a positive impact on the learning and development of your students.
Throughout my teaching career, I have honed my skills in creating and delivering engaging lesson plans that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. I have also implemented various teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles and ensure that all students receive the support they need to succeed.
One of my greatest strengths is my ability to build strong relationships with my students, parents, and colleagues. I firmly believe that a positive and supportive classroom environment is key to creating a successful learning experience for students.
As an Elementary Teacher, I am committed to providing a well-rounded education that includes not only academic instruction but also social and emotional development. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my enthusiasm and expertise to your school and contribute to your mission of creating lifelong learners.
I look forward to discussing my qualifications further and learning more about the Elementary Teacher position at your school.
Also Read: How to write an impressive teacher resume with no experience?
Tips for Writing a Good Teacher Cover Letter
Now that you’ve seen some great teacher cover letter examples, here are some tips that will help you write an equally good teacher cover letter of your own:
Personalize Your Teacher's Cover Letter
One of the most critical things you can do to make your cover letter stand out is to personalize it. Avoid using generic salutations, such as "To Whom It May Concern." Instead, do some research to find out who will be reading your letter and address it to them directly.
Personalizing your letter shows that you're invested in the position and have taken the time to do your homework.
Highlight Your Teaching Philosophy
Your teaching philosophy is an essential aspect of your cover letter. It showcases your beliefs about education and your approach to teaching.
Use your cover letter to explain your teaching philosophy and how it aligns with the school's mission and goals. Be specific and provide examples of how you've applied your philosophy in the classroom.
Use Specific Examples
When discussing your experience and qualifications, use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and accomplishments.
For example, instead of saying, "I'm a great communicator," provide an example of a time when you effectively communicated with students, parents, or colleagues. Specific examples make your teacher's cover letter more compelling and memorable.
Showcase Your Accomplishments
Don't hesitate to showcase your accomplishments in your cover letter. Highlight any awards, recognition, or achievements you've received in your teaching career.
This shows that you're a dedicated and successful teacher who is passionate about your work.
Keep it Concise
While it's essential to provide enough detail to showcase your qualifications and experience, it's also crucial to keep your cover letter concise.
Hiring managers and recruiters are busy and don't have time to read lengthy cover letters. Limit your letter to one page and focus on the most critical information.
Also Read: How to make an impressive principal resume in 2023?
In conclusion, a teacher's cover letter is a crucial part of the job application process that should not be overlooked. It is an opportunity for teachers to showcase their skills, experience, and passion for education to potential employers.
By following the tips and examples provided in this guide, you can craft a standout cover letter that highlights your strengths and makes you a strong candidate for the position.
Remember to tailor the letter to the specific job and school, showcase relevant experience, highlight teaching philosophy, and proofread carefully. With these tips in mind, you can confidently apply for your dream job and make a positive impact on the lives of your students.
If you want to write a compelling teacher cover letter within minutes, use Hiration’s ChatGPT-powered cover letter builder with 24x7 chat support. You can also reach us at [email protected] .

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How to Write a Cover Letter

Advice for tackling one of the toughest parts of the job-hunting process.
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 50% chance that including one could help you. Before you start writing, find out more about the company and the specific job you want. Next, catch the attention of the hiring manager or recruiter with a strong opening line. If you have a personal connection with the company or someone who works there, mention it in the first sentence or two, and try to address your letter to someone directly. Hiring managers are looking for people who can help them solve problems, so show that you know what the company does and some of the challenges it faces. Then explain how your experience has equipped you to meet those needs. If the online application doesn’t allow you to submit a cover letter, use the format you’re given to demonstrate your ability to do the job and your enthusiasm for the role.
No one likes job hunting. Scouring through online job listings, spiffing up your résumé , prepping for grueling interviews — none of it is fun. For many, the most challenging part of the process is writing an effective cover letter. There’s so much conflicting advice out there, it’s hard to know where to start. Do you even need one, especially if you’re applying through an online system?
What the Experts Say
The answer is almost always yes. Sure, there will be times when you’re submitting an application online and you may not be able to include one, but whenever possible, send one, says Jodi Glickman, a communications expert and author of Great on the Job . “It’s your best chance of getting the attention of the HR person or hiring manager and an important opportunity to distinguish yourself from everyone else.” And in a tight job market, setting yourself apart is critical, says John Lees, a UK-based career strategist and author of Knockout CV . Still, as anyone who’s ever written a cover letter knows, it’s not easy to do well. Here are some tips to help.
Do your research first.
Before you start writing, find out more about the company and the specific job you want. Of course, you should carefully read the job description, but also peruse the company’s website, its executives’ Twitter feeds, and employee profiles on LinkedIn. This research will help you customize your cover letter, since you shouldn’t send a generic one. It’ll also help you decide on the right tone. “Think about the culture of the organization you’re applying to,” advises Glickman. “If it’s a creative agency, like a design shop, you might take more risks, but if it’s a more conservative organization, like a bank, you may hold back.”
If at all possible, reach out to the hiring manager or someone else you know at the company before writing your cover letter, advises Lees. You can send an email or a LinkedIn message “asking a smart question about the job.” That way you can start your letter by referencing the interaction. You might say, “Thanks for the helpful conversation last week” or “I recently spoke to so-and-so at your company.” Of course, it’s not always possible to contact someone — or you may not get a response. That’s OK. It’s still worth a try.
Focus it on the future.
While your résumé is meant to be a look back at your experience and where you’ve been, the cover letter should focus on the future and what you want to do, says Glickman. “It can be helpful to think of it as the bridge between the past and the future that explains what you hope to do next and why.” Because of the pandemic there is less of an expectation that you’ll be applying for a job that you’ve done before. “There are millions of people who are making career changes — voluntarily or involuntarily — and need to pivot and rethink how their skill set relates to a different role or industry,” says Glickman. You can use your cover letter to explain the shift you’re making, perhaps from hospitality to marketing, for example. Think of it as an opportunity to sell your transferrable skills .
Open strong.
“People typically write themselves into the letter with ‘I’m applying for X job that I saw in Y place.’ That’s a waste,” says Lees. Instead, lead with a strong opening sentence . “Start with the punch line — why this job is exciting to you and what you bring to the table,” says Glickman. For example, you might write, “I’m an environmental fundraising professional with more than 15 years of experience looking for an opportunity to apply my skills in new ways, and I’d love to bring my expertise and enthusiasm to your growing development team.” Then you can include a sentence or two about your background and your relevant experience, but don’t rehash your résumé.
Read more about
How to Write a Resume That Stands Out
Chances are the hiring manager or recruiter is reading a stack of these, so you want to catch their attention. But don’t try to be funny. “Humor can often fall flat or sound self-regarding,” says Lees. Stay away from common platitudes, too. “Say something direct and dynamic, such as ‘Let me draw your attention to two reasons why I’d be a great addition to your team.'”
If you have a personal connection with the company or someone who works there, also mention it in the first sentence or two. And always address your letter to someone directly. “With social media, it’s often possible to find the name of a hiring manager,” says Glickman.
Emphasize your personal value.
Hiring managers are looking for people who can help them solve problems. Drawing on the research you did earlier, show that you know what the company does and some of the challenges it faces. These don’t need to be specific but you might mention how the industry has been affected by the pandemic. For example, you might write, “A lot of health care companies are overwhelmed with the need to provide high-quality care while protecting the health and safety of their staff.” Then talk about how your experience has equipped you to meet those needs; perhaps explain how you solved a similar problem in the past or share a relevant accomplishment. You want to provide evidence of the things that set you apart.
Lees points out that there are two skills that are relevant to almost any job right now: adaptability and the ability to learn quickly. If you have brief examples that demonstrate these skills, include those. For example, if you supported your team in the shift to remote work, describe how you did that and what capabilities you drew on.
Convey enthusiasm.
“When you don’t get hired, it’s usually not because of a lack of skills,” says Glickman. “It’s because people didn’t believe your story, that you wanted the job, or that you knew what you were getting into.” Hiring managers are going to go with the candidate who has made it seem like this is their dream job. So make it clear why you want the position . “Enthusiasm conveys personality,” Lees adds. He suggests writing something like “I’d love to work for your company. Who wouldn’t? You’re the industry leader, setting standards that others only follow.” Don’t bother applying if you’re not excited about some aspect of the company or role.
Watch the tone.
At the same time, don’t go overboard with the flattery or say anything you don’t mean. Authenticity is crucial. “Even if you’ve been out of work for months, and would take any job at this point, you want to avoid sounding desperate ,” says Lees. You don’t want your tone to undermine your message, so be professional and mature. A good rule of thumb is to put yourself in the shoes of the hiring manager and think about “the kind of language that the hiring manager would use with one of the company’s customers.” Of course, it can be hard to discern your own tone in writing, so you may need to ask someone to review a draft (which is always a good idea anyway — see advice below). Lees says that he often cuts outs “anything that sounds like desperation” when he’s reviewing letters for clients.
Keep it short.
Much of the advice out there says to keep it under a page. But both Glickman and Lees say even shorter is better. “Most cover letters I see are too long,” says Lees. “It should be brief enough that someone can read it at a glance.” You do have to cover a lot of ground — but you should do it succinctly. This is where asking a friend, former colleague, or mentor to review your letter can be helpful. Ask them to read through it and point out places where you can cut.
Get feedback.
In fact, it’s a great idea to share your cover letter with a few people, says Lees. Rather than sending it off and asking, “What do you think?” be specific about the kind of feedback you want. In particular, request two things. First, ask your friend if it’s clear what your main point is. What’s the story you’re telling? Are they able to summarize it? Second, ask them what’s wrong with the letter. “Other people are more attuned to desperation, overselling, over-modesty, and underselling,” says Lees, and they should be able to point out places where the tone is off.
When you can’t submit a cover letter.
Many companies now use online application systems that don’t allow for a cover letter. You may be able to figure out how to include one in the same document as your résumé, but that’s not a guarantee, especially because some systems only allow for data to be entered into specific boxes. In these cases, use the format you’re given to demonstrate your ability to do the job and your enthusiasm for the role. If possible, you may try to find someone to whom you can send a brief follow-up email highlighting a few key points about your application.
Principles to Remember
- Have a strong opening statement that makes clear why you want the job and what you bring to the table.
- Be succinct — a hiring manager should be able to read your letter at a glance.
- Share an accomplishment that shows you can address the challenges the employer is facing.
- Try to be funny — too often it falls flat.
- Send a generic cover letter — customize each one for the specific job.
- Go overboard with flattery — be professional and mature.
Advice in Practice
Case study #1: demonstrate an understanding of what the company needs..
Michele Sommers, the vice president of HR for the Boys & Girls Village, a nonprofit in Connecticut, recently posted a job for a recruiting and training specialist. “I was looking for someone with a strong recruiting background who could do everything from sourcing candidates to onboarding new hires,” she says. She also wanted the person to hit the ground running. “We’re a small team and I can’t afford to train someone,” she says.
More than 100 candidates applied for the job. The organization’s online application system doesn’t allow for cover letter attachments, but one of the applicants, Heidi (not her real name), sent a follow-up email after submitting her résumé. “And it’s a good thing she did, because she would’ve been weeded out otherwise,” Michele says.
Heidi’s résumé made her look like a “job hopper” — very short stints at each previous employer. Michele assumed she was a poor performer who kept getting fired. She was also the only candidate who didn’t have a four-year college degree.
But Heidi’s email caught Michele’s eye. First off, it was professional. Heidi stated clearly that she was writing to double-check that her application had been received. She went on to explain how she had gotten Michele’s name and information (through her husband’s boss, who was on the board) and her personal connection to Boys & Girls Village (her father-in-law had done some work with the organization).
Further Reading
Stand Out in Your Interview
What really stood out to Michele, though, was Heidi’s understanding of the group and the challenges it was facing. She’d done her research and “listed some things she would do or already had done that would help us address those needs,” says Michele.
“The personality and passion she conveyed in the cover letter came through during her phone screening,” Michele says. Heidi ended up being more than qualified for the job. “I wanted this role to be bigger from the get-go, but I didn’t think that was possible. When I met her, I knew we could expand it.” Three weeks later Michele offered Heidi the job and she accepted.
Case Study #2: Catch their attention.
Over the past four years, Emily Sernaker applied for multiple positions at the International Rescue Committee (IRC). She never gave up. With each application, she sent a personalized cover letter. “I wanted my cover letter to highlight my qualifications, creative thinking, and genuine respect for the organization,” she says.
Sarah Vania, the organization’s regional HR director, says that Emily’s letters caught her attention, especially because they included several video links that showed the results of Emily’s advocacy and fundraising work at other organizations. Emily explains, “I had prior experience advocating for former child soldiers, human trafficking survivors, vulnerable women, and displaced persons. It’s one thing to make statements in a cover letter, like ‘I can make a pitch, I am a creative person, I am thoughtful,’ but showing these qualities seemed like a better way of convincing the recruiter that the statements were true.”
This is what Emily wrote to Sarah about the video:
Here is a short video about my story with activism. The nonprofit organization Invisible Children made it for a youth conference I spoke at this year. It is about four minutes. As you’ll see from the video, I’ve had a lot of success as a student fundraiser, raising over $200,000 for Invisible Children. I’ve since gone on to work as a consultant for Wellspring International and have recently concluded my studies as a Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholar.
In each of the cover letters, Emily also made clear how much she wanted to work for IRC. “To convey enthusiasm is a vulnerable thing to do and can come off as naivete, but, when it came down to it, my enthusiasm for the organization was genuine and expressing it felt right,” she says.
This is how Emily conveyed her interest in working for IRC:
You should also know that I have a sincere appreciation of the IRC. I have enjoyed learning about your programs and have personally visited your New York headquarters, the San Diego New Roots farm, the We Can Be Heroes exhibit, and the Half the Sky exhibit in Los Angeles. The IRC is my top choice and I believe I would be a valuable addition to your fundraising team.
Emily learned throughout the process that the organization had hundreds of applicants for each position and it was extremely competitive. “I appreciated that I wouldn’t be the best for every opening but also remained firm that I did have a significant contribution to make,” she says. Eventually, Emily’s persistence paid off. She was hired as a temporary external relations coordinator, and four months later she moved into a permanent role.
- Amy Gallo is a contributing editor at Harvard Business Review, cohost of the Women at Work podcast , and the author of two books: Getting Along: How to Work with Anyone (Even Difficult People) and the HBR Guide to Dealing with Conflict . She writes and speaks about workplace dynamics. Watch her TEDx talk on conflict and follow her on LinkedIn . amyegallo
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Tips for an effective cover letter Customize your header based on your application format. If you're writing your cover letter directly within an online... Avoid generic references to your abilities. When possible, tell meaningful anecdotes that tie your skills to concrete... Keep it short and to ...
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.
To instantly improve your writing tone: Use contractions like “don’t” instead of “do not” Avoid overused buzzwords and phrases like “dynamic,” “think outside the box,” and “go-getter” Choose simple words like “helpful” instead of “advantageous”
Cover letter example Here is an example of a cover letter to help you create your own: Anne Galindo 123-456-7890 [email protected] January 23, 2021 Dear Hiring Manager, I’m excited to be applying for …
Using these resources to write your own cover letter will improve your chances of landing an interview (and hopefully the job too). Build My Cover Letter Our free-to-use cover letter builder can make you a cover letter in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you. 1.
For getting CV to writing a cover letter for a job, experts in composing resumes are ready to provide the result that would impress any employer. Here are the most common types of papers ordered: Nursing resume; CV for teachers …
Sit down and write a cover letter. That's because having a cover letter is absolutely critical to supplementing your HR resume.Let me give you three reasons why: 1. It shows extra effort. ...
In nursing cover letter reflect what influenced desire to become doctor, reveal story that's worth accepting you. To be honest, it's important part of resume but doing it is not that complicated. It should have several logical paragraphs to summarize your personality. Job letter outline can help in making it right.
Make the cover letter readable and, ideally, skimmable. While you need to write in full sentences, you don’t need to write four sentence paragraphs with 25 words per sentence. Put different thoughts on new lines and get the gist across on the first line of a paragraph. It’s like reading this post.
A professional cover letter follows a logical structure and will include key information such as: Contact section: This includes your name, phone number, and email address at the top. Follow this by including the hiring manager’s name and company contact information. Greeting: Greet the hiring manager by name.
In short, your cover letter has the potential to help you land the interview—and, ultimately, the job. Your Cover Letter Needs to Grab the Reader’s Attention Quickly. On average, you’ll have about 20 seconds to impress an employer with your cover letter. It’s …
Header - Input contact information. Greeting the hiring manager. Opening paragraph - Grab the reader’s attention with 2-3 of your top achievements. Second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Third paragraph - Explain why you’re a good match for the company. Formal closing.
These five steps are the basis of how to write a cover letter: Greeting: Address your cover letter to the proper person. Opening: Write a personable, inviting opening paragraph that notes how your skills are a perfect fit to the job and displays your enthusiasm. Hook: Highlight your past achievements as they relate to the job you're applying for.
Here are the steps you can follow to write your cover letter: Note the date Include your name and address Include the recipient's name and address Introduce yourself Make your opening paragraph about your interest in the position Include your background Focus on your qualifications
Plus, you feel her personality in the line, and when an employer feels like a real person is behind the cover letter, she's going to want to keep reading. 9. Start with a lesson you've learned in your career. A great way to start a cover letter is with a lesson you've learned in your industry from your experience.
Entering resume and cover letter prompts into ChatGPT. The goal of using ChatGPT to write your resume or cover letter is to lessen the stress of creating these documents. But that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. You still must give the AI very clear instructions about what you want it to generate.
A cover letter is a very short document and should be no more than one page long in most cases. This means that you have a limited time frame in which to impress hiring managers. End your cover letter with a call to action that invites …
2/ Identifying what to include in your cover letter. Create a table with two columns. In the left column jot down the highlighted skills you identified in the above section. And now in the right column, start writing down how you can match up to the advertised qualifications. Here’s an example for my latest role.
When writing your cover letter, remember to: write a new one for every job you apply for and make sure it’s tailored to the company and the specific role use the same font and size as you do for your CV, so it looks consistent make sure the company name and recruiter’s details are correct use the ...
5+ Short Cover Letter Samples (+ Writing Guide for 2023) Keep the short cover letter between 1 page and address the cover letter to the hiring manager properly. It will help set you apart from the rest of the candidates and help you get the interviews. 23 min read.
If at all possible, reach out to the hiring manager or someone else you know at the company before writing your cover letter, advises Lees. You can send an email or a LinkedIn message “asking a...
In CV you can include not only experience in different spheres but also academic achievements, grants, publications, researches, honors, prizes and give more details about your professional life. Resume tends to be brief, while CVs can be longer than two pages.
The Crossword Solver found 30 answers to "HELP TO COVER CREDIT FOR BITTER", 6 letters crossword clue. The Crossword Solver finds answers to classic crosswords and cryptic crossword puzzles. Enter the length or pattern for better results. Click the answer to find similar crossword clues . Enter a Crossword Clue.