how to present a cover letter and resume in person

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game New
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Job Application Documents
• Resume Preparation

How to Present a Resume in an Interview

Last Updated: February 21, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Colleen Campbell, PhD . Dr. Colleen Campbell is the Founder and CEO of The Ignite Your Potential Centers, Career and Life Coaching based in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. Colleen received her MA and PhD in Clinical Psychology from Sofia University and has been career coaching since 2008. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 84,260 times.

The interview is one of the most important parts of the process of finding a job. Notably, it’s also a great opportunity to present your resume in a way that will make you stand out as an applicant and will emphasize the strongest aspects of your career experience. By following simple formatting techniques and assembling your resume in a professional way, you can make sure your resume is presented in a way that makes you a strong contender for the job you’re applying for.

Assembling and Presenting Your Resume

• For example, consider centering your name and contact information instead of having it extend from the left. Your name should also be in a slightly larger font than the rest of the resume.
• Make your resume as skimmable as possible. The people reading your resume may have to read dozens, or even hundreds, more like it and inevitably will have to skim them. Thus, making your resume easily skimmable will make the reader appreciative and give you and your resume more attention as an applicant.

• For example, if the company is more artistic and expressive in its content, consider using a portfolio with creative designs or that you can personalize with your own designs. If you want to appear organized and professional, use a simple black portfolio.

• Use this paper to print out your references sheet and any other materials you plan to bring to the interview.

• Make sure your business cards are printed on the same type of paper that you used to print out your resume. This will give your documents a consistency that will reflect positively on you during your interview.

• If your portfolio doesn’t have a card-holder slot, simply bring your business card with you and give it to the people interviewing you if the opportunity arises.

• You should also bring multiple copies of your cover letter and any other relevant documents you plan to bring to your interview.

Discussing Your Resume During the Interview

• For example, ask your interviewer something like, “What part of my educational background or work experience is most interesting to you?”
• To be even more precise, you can also ask your interviewer how much time they would like you to spend discussing specific portions of your resume.

• This strategy has the added benefit of preventing you from being rambling in your answer. Moreover, if your interviewer remains interested in other aspects of your prior experience, they will most likely ask about them in a follow-up question.
• In any case, do mention your two most recent jobs and explain why you ultimately ended up leaving them and applying for this new job.

• For example, if one of your previous jobs was very similar to the job you’re currently applying for, talk about the relevant experience and skill sets you acquired through that job and how you could bring them to bear on the new position.
• Don’t try to summarize each prior position or educational experience in its entirety; instead, focus on describing those aspects of the job or training that are most relevant to this position.

Colleen Campbell, PhD

Address what the interviewer is looking for. Colleen Campbell, CEO of Ignite Your Potential, says: “When building your resume and preparing for the interview, look at the posting and address what they’re looking for in some way. Build a list of your wins at other companies and create a narrative around them to prepare yourself for the interview. Always have things to talk about that are related to the elements in the posting .”

• For example, spend ample time discussing any previous jobs that were similar in responsibilities and required skills to the job you’re currently applying for. Meanwhile, spend as little time as possible on prior jobs that aren’t relevant to this position at all.
• If you skimp too much on the details of your resume, your answers may come across to the interviewer as superficial.

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.wikihow.com/Present-a-Resume-in-an-Interview
• ↑ https://www.thebalancecareers.com/how-to-include-your-contact-information-on-your-resume-2063308
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/build-your-work-portfolio
• ↑ https://careertrend.com/how-4517241-present-resume.html
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/walk-me-through-your-resume
• ↑ https://news.efinancialcareers.com/us-en/272689/how-to-nail-the-walk-me-through-your-resume-interview-question
• ↑ https://www.monster.ca/career-advice/article/walk-me-through-your-resume

About This Article

Presenting your resume in an interview is an important part of making a good impression. It’s also a good way for you to highlight the strongest aspects of your career experience. Bring a basic, black portfolio to the interview with multiple copies of your resume, cover letter, references, and business cards. That way, if there are multiple interviewers they’ll all be able to follow along. If you know which aspects of your resume the interviewer is most interested in, focus on those areas. If not, don’t be afraid to ask! In general, you’ll want to focus on your most relevant work experience to the position you’re interviewing for. Instead of summarizing each of your prior positions, focus on specific examples of skills you learned. For example, if you led a successful project at your last job, explain how you managed it, what you learned, and how you could apply those skills to this new position. To learn how to ensure your portfolio matches the company vibe, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Did this article help you?

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

• HOME HOME HOME
• WHY PONGO? WHY PONGO? WHY PONGO? Why Choose Us? Success Stories Testimonials
• FEATURES FEATURES FEATURES Resume Builder Letter Builder Interview Tips Activity Tracker Job Search
• PLANS PLANS PLANS Memberships Professional Resumes Professional Letters
• HELP HELP HELP
• CAREER CORNER CAREER CORNER CAREER CORNER Blog Resumes Letters Interviews Job Search Work / Life

Delivering Your Resume In Person: Good Idea or Bad?

A job seeker reached out to Pongo’s Customer Support team this week with this question: “Would it be

a good idea or a bad idea to walk in and present my resume and cover letter in person, instead of applying online like everyone else?” That’s a tough one. It might help ... or it might not. Here are some guidelines to help you decide. Guideline 1: Always Follow the Employer’s Instructions That means if the job posting says apply online, you should absolutely apply online. Furthermore, if the employer specifies “Please email your resume and cover letter to hiringmanagerX [at] bbdb.org,” then that’s exactly what you should do. Don’t assume you can just hit the APPLY button in an online job posting and be done with it. Follow the submission instructions precisely, because it’s probably a screening tool to see if you’re paying attention.   Bottom Line:  Always apply the way they ask. Only then should you try to determine whether an in-person visit would be a good way to emphasize your interest—or a good way to get you branded a stalker. (And that depends, largely, on the size and culture of the employer.) Guideline 2:  The Smaller the Company, The Better Your Chances Dropping in uninvited at a large corporation could get you escorted right back out by security. It’s unlikely to help your case, anyway, since most major companies use automated databases to track applicants and store resumes , and there’s often a recruiting or HR department that screens all applications before the hiring manager ever sees them. But in a small company, if you play your cards right, you could make a memorable impression and generate some buzz around the water cooler. One of our web guys here at Pongo did that a few years ago, and although we still tease him about it sometimes, it obviously worked! Guideline 3. Get In. Make Your Point. Get Out If you decide to supplement your “proper” application with a hand-delivered hard copy, be sure to follow these rules of resume-delivery etiquette:

• Dress the part (business casual should suffice).
• Respect the staff’s time and privacy—remember you’re interrupting their workday.
• Do not ask to see the hiring manager, request an appointment, or make any other demands.
• Identify yourself, the job you’re interested in, that you’ve applied through the proper channels, and that you’re just dropping off an extra copy of your resume and cover letter.
• Thank the person for their time, and say you hope you’ll be considered for the job.

You never know what will happen next. Most likely, the person will thank you and send you on your way (then deliver your packet to the hiring manager, with a comment about whether you seemed nice, weird, or something in between). The best-case scenario would be an instant interview—don’t expect it, but be prepared just in case! RELATED LINKS What Happens to My Resume After I Send It? Snail Mail: The 'New' Way to Get Your Resume Noticed Hey Employer, Your Online Application Sucks!

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

A demo is the first step to transforming your business. Meet with us to develop a plan for attaining your goals.

• What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Research, expert insights, and resources to develop courageous leaders within your organization.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

• BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

Chatgpt cover letters: how to use this tool the right way, how to write an impactful cover letter for a career change, write thank you letters after interviews to stand out as job applicant, send a thank you email after an internship to boost your career, character references: 4 tips for a successful recommendation letter, use professional reference templates to make hiring smoother, what is a letter of intent examples on how to write one, tips and tricks for writing a letter of interest (with examples), similar articles, 24 action verbs for your resume that will get you the job, how to ask for a letter of recommendation (with examples), anxious about meetings learn how to run a meeting with these 10 tips, how to write a letter of recommendation (with examples), stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform Overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care™
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case Studies
• Why BetterUp?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Life Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• BetterUp Labs
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences

How to Write a Cover Letter

Quick Navigation:

What is a cover letter?

How to write a cover letter, cover letter template, cover letter example.

Writing a cover letter is an important step in the application process. What you include in your cover letter can give a potential employer insight into your personality, skills and abilities that you would bring to their company. As you create a cover letter to include in your next application, consider some of these examples and how they can impact the reader. This article will show you how to write a cover letter to get

A cover letter is a tool that helps you introduce yourself as a person rather than a list of qualifications, education and experience. You can express your personality in an engaging, professional way, as well as convey some of the reasons you think you would be a good fit for an open position. When crafted well, your cover letter will expand upon some of the information on your resume, guiding a hiring manager through your professional and personal achievements. 

Follow these steps to write a cover letter to help you get hired:

1. First, start the cover letter with the basics

Every cover letter should include some basic information about you, including your name, phone number and email address. You may also choose to include your title, your home address and links to your social media accounts and/or professional websites. For example, if you’re applying to a position as a social media manager, it makes sense to include links to your own social media accounts.

2. Second, address the letter to the hiring manager

If you don’t know who will be reviewing it, do some research to find out and include their name and title. When that person reads a letter that is addressed to them, rather than ‘To whom it may concern,’ they are more likely to feel like it’s been tailored to them. You can address it to Mr./Ms. [Last Name] if the company culture is more formal, or just include the manager’s first name in a casual, relaxed atmosphere.

3. Next, make your opening paragraph stand out

To make your opening paragraph appeal to the reader, you can explain why you are interested in the company and why you would be a good fit for the role.

Example:  

I have been passionate about ABC Marketing’s campaigns and initiatives since I saw the commercial that featured singing goats in the back of a truck. I was thrilled to see the position of Digital Marketing Director open up at this company, and I am confident in my ability to contribute to this innovative and vibrant marketing team. My experience has included managing national marketing campaigns through both online and print mediums with budgets of more than $250,000. I have also successfully increased my current company’s client base by 14% in the last 18 months.

4. Then, explain your abilities and achievements

Your resume will outline your past responsibilities and roles, so use the next paragraphs of your cover letter to expand on your professional achievements in a unique, engaging way. 

I worked on 10 websites for various clients in a six-month period. Of those 10 websites, I was able to optimize eight of them to secure them in the top five hits on a Google search. I am continuing to work on the other two to further optimize them and increase their ranking in an online search.

5. Next, outline your research

When you apply for a job, it shows initiative if you’re willing to research the company and talk more about how your goals and vision align with the company values and growth strategy. 

The position describes the plan to expand ABC Marketing’s online portal focused on health care marketing. This project matches well with my abilities and past experience as I previously built an online portal for a client who was looking to expand their marketing efforts. My knowledge of SEO and digital marketing campaigns will certainly benefit ABC Marketing, which is why I feel I would be an excellent fit for this role.

6. Last, write a strong closing statement

In the final paragraph, express appreciation to the person who has taken the time to read your cover letter. You may also choose to highlight any additional skills that apply to the position you are applying for. Include a call to action, such as contacting you or following up with additional information. Finally, close with a friendly word or phrase, such as ‘Thank you,’ ‘Sincerely,’ or ‘Regards.’ 

I appreciate your time in reviewing my application for this position. I look forward to hearing from you regarding the job, and I am available to answer any questions you may have or provide further clarification. 

Sincerely,  Jason Jones

A cover letter template can give you an idea of how to formulate your letter. You can use this template to help you plan:

Your name Your address Your phone number

Hiring manager’s name Their title Company name Address

Dear [Hiring manager’s name],

Body of the letter explaining your qualifications and experience that make you a good candidate.

Thank the employer for reading your cover letter and considering you for the role.

State that you will follow up.

Closing,  Your signature

Add your own details that will customize the document for the position. Here is an example:

Dear Mr. Peterson,

As an enthusiast of EA Gaming and the innovative games that your company has brought to the market, I was excited to see a position become available for a Senior Developer. I feel I would be an excellent candidate for this position because of my past experience working for a video game company as a developer. During my six years in this role, I have come up with new concepts for games, as well as developed these games and fixed bugs as they moved through the development phase.

I also participate in an online gaming community where I have released some of the games that I developed on my own time. These games have been met with great enthusiasm and excitement among some of the top gamers across the world. My creativity has helped me to create games that are unique and appealing, while my experience in the gaming world has given me insights into the trends and desires of fellow gamers. In my past roles, I have worked closely with other members of development teams, showcasing my ability to be a strong team player. I am also proficient in C++ and C#. 

Thank you for taking the time to consider my application for the position of Senior Developer. I look forward to the next steps in the process. I feel confident that I could bring my strong creative, analytical and development skills to this role, helping to create games that millions of people would enjoy playing.

Sincerely, Alex Martinez Junior Developer

As you write your cover letter, consider what information you’d like to learn about a candidate if you were the hiring manager for an open position. Use this insight to decide what you want to include in your own letter to help identify yourself as a capable, experienced and appealing candidate.

A 10 Step Guide to Dropping Off a Resume in Person + Pro Resume Tips

You were told dropping off a resume in person is old-fashioned – and you should be sending your resume ONLY through their website.

Write your resume in 15 minutes

Our free collection of expertly designed resume templates will help you stand out from the crowd and get one step closer to your dream job.

But, did you know the majority of the resumes employers receive online are rejected before even reaching a human?

Handing in the resume increases your chances of getting noticed. If you do it right, You may be able to end their candidate search then and there.

That’s what we address in this article including:

• The jobs you would have a better chance if hand in a resume
• How to prepare your resume, cover letter, and yourself for dropping off
• How to follow up on your application

Explore the importance of handing in your resume in person and learn the right way to do it.

Meanwhile, if you’re in the stage of writing your resume, check out our ready-to-fill resume templates – you could tailor these to your profile and create job-winning resumes in 10 minutes.

The common practice 20 years ago was to print a handful of resumes and go to every company or business you’re interested in to hand them over. Things are different now – you can apply for 100 job vacancies in 20 minutes in the comfort of your home.

However, the old ways are not completely outdated. Indeed, the old ways can be more effective today than ever before. Consider, for example, we’re not excited about an email coming to our inbox like we were 10 years ago – but we would be excited for a hand-written postcard coming to our address.

Same way, dropping off your resume for the recruiter could be more effective than just sending them an email or applying online through their website.

Nevertheless, there’re limitations. Some employers strictly mention that they do not accept walk-in applicants – in which case, you shouldn’t be trying that.

In addition, dropping off the resume might not sound like a good idea for certain job positions. For instance, when applying some companies that use applicant tracking systems (ATS) for shortlisting might ask you to submit your resume in PDF or MSWord format to make sure it's readable for the system. In that case, your printed resume would be an invalid document for them.

Conversely, smaller firms would prefer handing in resumes compared to larger firms. Also, the outlets where “Now Hiring” signs or job boards are displayed would welcome you to drop off your resume in person.

Here are some jobs you may consider dropping off your resume in person:

• Entry-level jobs
• Restaurant and coffee shops
• Retail jobs
• Customer service
• Sales associates
• Delivery and driving jobs

However, consider these points before handing in your resume as a walk-in job seeker:

• You might be labeled as a candidate who did not follow the instructions if they had asked you to email your resume.
• They would view you as a distraction to their daily operations if you visit unannounced with your application.
• Their hiring process could be system driven whereas the involvement of the HR Department would be the last step.

Still, dropping off a resume in person is a popular and effective application method for many jobs – especially, if you see an extremely interesting job opportunity at a closeby location and you want to grab it fast.

📌 Pro Tip: Always follow the instructions stated in the job advertisement

The safest way is to follow the instructions stated by the corporate recruiter. If they want your application to be emailed, you should be emailing it – if they want you to fill out an online application form, that’s what you should do first.

Subsequently, if the recruiter has not strictly mentioned that they do not accept walk-in job seekers, you may drop off your resume in person.

Why Dropping Off the Resume is Important?

Why drop off your resume when you can apply online in the comfort of your home sipping a glass of wine?

Here are a few reasons:

• Employers can straightaway recruit the candidate eliminating the hassle of scheduling and conducting interviews.
• You can apply for jobs that do not have active vacancies – this way you could literally apply for any company.
• They might consider you for future job opportunities if the current position is filled.
• Dropping off your resume is a great way to show your interest to the manager and display your personality before an interview.

A Step by Step Guide to Dropping Off Your Resume in Person

This 10-step guide gives you an overall understanding of the important aspects of your in-person application process – to DO’s and DO NOT’s – pro tips.

The in-person application process is more sensitive than the online application methods as it involves the applicant’s presence.

This will help you identify where you should be careful and where you could score more so that you can end the recruiter’s search on the spot.

1. Create a strong resume

We should spotlight the importance of a strong resume in walk-in application method compared to any online application process.

In this, you walk in to the employer’s office or the outlet and hand over a printed version of your resume. The application does not go through any software but the recruiter would check the resume manually.

It's imparative that your resume make a good first impression. Using a creative and modern yet relevant template is crucial here. If you’re in the process of writing your resume, check out our modern resume templates which are ready to be filled.

Writing a job-winning resume was never this easy!

Here’s an example resume for a retail assistant manager position:

• Marked a 16% revenue growth in 2021 Q4
• Increased the loyalty card promotion income by 23%
• Awarded the best performing outlet in 2020 at Walmart Annual Awards Ceremony
• Managed a team of 12 to smoothly run one of the busiest retail stores in the area
• Carried out inventory management of 4 retail stores
• Involved in purchasing, hiring, and firing of suppliers
• Responded to over 15 customer inquiries daily
• Store first time achieved $100k mark monthly sale in 2017
• Management accounting
• Financial accounting and double entry
• Negotiation skills
• Strong leadership
• Interpersonal skills
• Skill Certifications
• Microsoft Office Specialist Certification (MOS)
• Certified Professional Sales Leader by NASP

Also, refer to the following resume examples for further inspiration:

• Sales associate resume
• Pastry chef resume
• Hostess resume
• Barista resume
• Restaurant manager resume

2. Write a job-winning cover letter

You already know your cover letter is the sales pitch to the hiring manager. Your decision to go through that extra hustle of dropping off the resume means that you’re interested in the job and the company, but that only is not enough.

You should write a compelling cover letter explaining your interest in the job and how your expertise could help them achieve their goals.

Most cover letters sent online are not read by the hiring managers – of course, they don’t have time for all that. Nevertheless, when you drop off your cover letter – a physical version of it – there’s more likelihood that they would go through it.

You may have a couple of versions of your resume for different jobs – but in case of the cover letter, you should write separate ones tailored to each job you apply for. It looks like a lot of work, but when you develop the structure of the first cover letter, it's all about little changes.

If writing cover letters is not your strong area, we have plenty of examples and cover letter templates you can tailor to your requirement.

Here’s an example cover letter for a hostess job in a restaurant:

(232)441-3872

20 May 2022

Duke Pizzeria

Having worked in a McDonald’s as a hostess for the last 6 months, I was so excited to find out about the job opening at your restaurant. As a graduate in restaurant management and reading for my master’s in business management, I find your restaurant an ideal place for me to advance my career in the next 3 to 5 years.

In my previous job as a part-time hostess at McDonald’s, I handled the customers working in both the day and night shifts achieving a customer satisfaction rating of 4.5/5.0. I believe my passion for the food industry and my natural people skill help me work well with customers.

I am fully confident that I would be a great addition to your team. It will be my pleasure to discuss with you my role and the specifics of the job in detail in an interview. I can start straight away.

Yours truly

Refer to the following cover letter examples for further inspiration:

• Executive assistant cover letter
• Accountant cover letter
• Production assistant cover letter

3. Plan how to present your documents

First thing first, you should download your resume and cover letter – download them in PDF format so that it will retain the formatting of the documents in the printing.

If you used our resume builder to create your resume and the cover letter, you’ll have perfect formatting of fonts, margins, and colors with beautiful templates.

Color print your resume and the cover letter. It gives a rich look to your application if you’ve used a matching color combination. Don’t make it look like another boring monthly report for the employer.

Staple your resume and the cover letter and fold it nicely to fit in an envelope. Write your name and the position you apply for on the outside.

4. Find the right time to visit the employer

The time you should visit the employer depends on the business they are in. For instance, if you’re applying for a coffee shop, avoid early mornings and if you’re applying for a retail outlet, avoid the evening rush hours.

You may call the reception and ask them about a good time to visit. Choosing the right time would allow you to have a quick word with the hiring manager which would improve your chances of getting shortlisted for an interview.

In addition, picking the right time shows the employer your understanding of their industry, critical thinking skill, and business intelligence – it’s also a great way to show that you value their time.

5. Select the most suitable attire

When you are sending an application online it generally consists of two things: your resume and the cover letter. When you’re dropping off your resume in person, there’s an additional component to consider: yourself.

Make sure you’re clean, well-groomed, and dressed professionally. There’s no hard and fast rule as to what you should wear when dropping off your resume. It often depends on the culture at your workplace.

Research about the workplace to find out how the employees dress. You should try to dress similar or better than that. The safest options would be solid-color T-shirts or button-down shirts together with dark color jeans. Always wear appropriate shoes.

A business casual attire would be suitable for most companies. Check out this article by Indeed.com for more information about different dress codes.

6. Plan what you’re going to say

Walking into your future employer without having anything in your mind to talk about would be the worst strategy.

First, introduce yourself. Not only to the manager but to any employee you meet. The first conversation you make with any employee would be important – especially when you don’t know who makes decisions.

Be kind and gracious to every one of them – extend your hand and introduce yourself.

• Hi there, my name is Kim, I see you’re hiring sales executives which I am interested in applying for. Would this be a good time to drop off my resume to the manager?
• Hi, I am Richard, I came to drop off my resume to your manager. Is he available at the outlet right now?

Be ready to talk to the manager – explain the purpose of your visit clearly in a couple of sentences.

If you are unsure whether they have vacancies: Hi, I am Dan, I’ve been around here for a while and love your restaurant. I am an experienced chef and curious whether you have any openings right now. I have my resume and the cover letter with me.

If you already applied online: Hi, my name is Jen. I applied online for a hostess job at your restaurant a few days ago. As I live close by, just wanted to hand over my resume to you in person.

If there’s a “Hiring Now” sign on the front: Hi Ben, My name is Joana. I see you’re actively hiring bartenders for your cafe. I am an experienced bartender and I live close by. Here’s my resume and the cover letter and I would love to have an interview with you whenever you’re free.

Use these as guidelines to prepare – do not memorize the whole sentences.

7. Be prepared for an interview

If you picked the right time to visit the company, you might catch the manager in his free time and guess what, he might even ask you a couple of questions and decide to interview you there itself.

The result?

They might end their candidate hunting and you might end your job hunting. Win-win!

Recruitment is a hassle for most small businesses and even for larger firms. If they find the right candidate to walk in knocking on their door, why not give him a chance.

If the manager says, “ let me ask you a couple of questions in my office” – you can’t say “ I’m not ready, can we postpone it to tomorrow?”.

Therefore, if you ever decide to drop off your resume, be ready for an interview.

To prepare for the interview:

• Have a good look at the job description and your resume.
• Research about the company, their culture, pay, and, competition.
• Be ready to state the verbal version of your professional summary.
• Explain your experience and skills.

8. Show your personality throughout

From the time you enter the outlet until the time you leave, show your interest – keep a smile on your face – and maintain consistent enthusiasm in your talk.

Respect every employee you meet, not only the managers. Give priority to the customers if you had to wait in a queue.

9. Ask for a business card

If you talked to the manager or dropped off your resume at the reception, ask for a business card of the manager or the recruiter.

Try to get at least an email address and a phone number to follow up on your application.

10. Keep your visit short

Show the staff and the manager that you value their time. If you weren't asked, don't stay longer than 15 minutes.

However, if you visit a restaurant or a coffee shop, you may consider buying something – that would buy you more time and you instantly become a customer making it difficult for them to reject your request to meet the manager.

What to Do if the Recruiter Strictly Says “NO” for In-Person Applications

You should respect the instructions of the recruiter – maybe they have their reasons to say “NO” to drop off applications.

In fact, most businesses do not like interruptions to their business operations due to hiring. That's why they tend to go fully online for recruiting.

However, there’re a few ways you can still make a good impression and a personal connection with the hiring manager👇

Include a cover letter or a message to the recruiter

If the online application allows you to upload an additional document after the resume, include a solid cover letter – explain your interest to join the team and what you can bring to the table.

Explore your personal connections

Check whether anyone you know works in the company or any of its branches. Talk to them and send your resume – ask for a recommendation. Tell them that you’ve already applied online.

Connect with the hiring manager

Use social media – especially LinkedIn to connect with the hiring manager or employees of the company. You may even ask for a recommendation from an existing connection.

Make sure you update your LinkedIn profile with a compelling headshot, cover photo, and profile description. Turn on “Open to Work” on LinkedIn for more visibility.

How to Follow Up After Dropping Off Your Resume?

Dropping off your resume does not end your job search: it just gets started. You have shown the hiring manager your utmost interest in the job by handing in the resume in person. However, people in HR department are always busy with applcations – they would be recruiting people for different positions and some managers handle operations as well – that’s where following up on your application would help.

When should you follow up?

If you hand in the application to the reception, you should follow up the next day. Call the reception or the manager and inquire about your application – make sure it reaches the manager.

If you hand in your resume to the manager, make a follow-up call after 2 or 3 days.

How frequently should you follow up?

Make a follow-up call once every 2 days for entry-level positions as most entry-level positions do not last long. Call once a week to the recruiter for a managerial level position.

However, do not overdo this. You should decide the right frequency of following up based on the hiring manager’s response to your calls.

What documents should I submit with job applications?

Generally, you should include a complete resume and a cover letter emphasizing your interest and expertise tailored to the job. Some companies ask you to fill out a standard job application when you are dropping off your resume.

Should I apply online or hand in my resume in person?

Read the job posting carefully and follow the instructions they have mentioned. If the employer specifies an online job application method to apply, you should do so.

If the employer discourages walk-in applicants, be respectful of their decision and do not attempt to drop off your resume.

Nevertheless, dropping off a resume is not a bad idea. Some employers would give priority to walk-in applicants – interview them on the spot – and offer the job.

Should I hand in my resume to the receptionist?

You should try to hand in your resume to the hiring manager. However, most hiring managers are busy with applications – some hiring managers are carrying out operational tasks as well. Therefore, it is normal that the receptionist takes your application and later hands it to the manager. If you do so, make a follow-up call the next day to see whether the manager received the application.

Create your resume with the best templates

Create your resume in 15 minutes

Our free collection of expertly designed cover letter templates will help you stand out from the crowd and get one step closer to your dream job.

Sample letters to download

Cover Letter

Advice for getting a job, instructions.

• Entertainment & News
• Career & Money
• Health & Wellness
• Love Quotes
• Expert Advice
• Radical Acceptance
• search articles
• find an expert
• sign up for newsletter

10 Steps To Write The Ideal Cover Letter To Land Your Dream Job

Don’t miss a chance to make your mark..

By Lisa Petsinis — Written on Sep 08, 2020

Do you panic when it comes to figuring out how to write a cover letter? A good cover letter can make or break your chances with a great company, so it's a big part of your job application process.

When it comes to applying for your dream job, there are two approaches you can take: Do what everyone else does, or stand out. Only one is going to land you your dream job.

RELATED: 4 Ways Female Business Leaders Should Practice Self-Care

An amazing cover letter can seal the deal for an interview.

A knockout resume is an essential element of your application, but the addition of a captivating cover letter can seal the deal and get you in the door for an interview.

Some recruiters might tell you that they never read cover letters, and most cover letters are canned, boring regurgitations of the resume, so it’s not surprising.

But as a former human resources leader, I can tell you that I always read them.

Why do cover letters matter?

A well-written cover letter shares something that even the most perfect resume cannot: It tells a story about why you should get hired.

Here's what else a great cover letter does:

• Demonstrates your writing skills.
• Shows that you’ve understood the job requirements.
• Humanizes your application and reveals your personality.
• Proves how eager you are to get the job.
• Makes the reader want to meet you in person.

Even though it makes sense to put in the effort to stand out in the selection process, many people find writing a cover letter daunting. But putting it all together doesn't have to be complicated or anxiety-provoking.

Here are 10 steps on how to write the ideal cover letter so you can land your dream job.

1. appropriately address your letter..

Whenever possible, address the letter to the right person. This shows your problem-solving abilities and adds a personal touch.

You can use LinkedIn as a tool, check out business directories, Google the company and titles, or simply call reception to inquire. If you're not certain after researching it, you can resort to "Dear Human Resources" or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the situation.

2. Establish the right tone.

Most cover letters are overly formal. You can gauge a lot about the company’s culture from its website and take clues from the job posting about what's appropriate.

Some organizations are very traditional; others are more hip and allow more leeway to be creative in your letter.

In general, it's an excellent strategy to connect to the reader by using a polite and professional, yet more conversational tone. Directly use language from the job posting. Go for warm and earnest, and you can't go wrong!

3. Pique the reader's interest in your opening paragraph.

Your first section should indicate which position you're applying for and, most importantly, why you are enthusiastic about applying for it.

You can share your beliefs, your passion for their cause, your experience with their product or service, or anything that indicates your connection to the business . Why? Because employees who share the company vision are more likely to be engaged, high performers.

"I am thrilled to apply for the Digital Marketing Manager position that you advertised on Indeed. I've been following your firm over the past few years, and I've admired how it’s changed the online space by […] I can't help but get excited about the opportunity to contribute my expertise to that transformation."

Or try this more creative approach:

"When I was growing up, I saw first-hand the effects of addiction and joblessness. That's why, when I saw the job posting for a Community Outreach Worker, I knew it was an incredible opportunity to enhance the lives of the less fortunate in our community."

RELATED: Study Says People Who Look Like This, You Make Less Money

4. Present relevant experience and skills.

After digesting the job description and noting what’s very important for success in the job, highlight your strengths.

Make sure you're able to demonstrate how amazing you are and how your skills and abilities relate to the role . Don't make this a laundry list; describe the qualities you possess that others likely don’t.

"You can read about my 10 years of experience creating marketing programs for the wine and spirits industry. Additionally, what I bring is expertise in the mature European market and an appreciation for wine as a trained sommelier. Before I formally started my marketing career, I was part-owner in a fine-dining restaurant, and I learned what consumers want and how they go about making purchasing decisions.

Add in my strong communication and project management skills, and I am confident I can deliver increased revenue for ABC Wines."

5. Go beyond the resume.

The top portion of your resume should summarize your experience and highlight your key competencies. The body of the cover letter is a chance to tell the reader something new and remarkable.

"What I'm most proud of is my ability to cut through the noise and see what action is going to get results. In my last fundraising campaign, I created an innovative strategy that resulted in a 300 percent increase in donations."

6. Clarify a potential issue.

Sometimes the cover letter is an opportunity to address questions that the resume cannot, such as a gap in employment, willingness to relocate, change in career, or a completely different level of work.

As a long-time recruiter, I was often left wondering about these things without an explanation in the letter. Don't let questions put your application to the bottom of the pile!

State the basic facts without drawing attention to your weaknesses. Instead, cleverly highlight your transferrable or new skills.

7. Demonstrate what you know about the industry or company.

Show that you've done your homework.

Review the company website and press releases, and say how you'd like to contribute to solve a problem or share in its growth. You can do this in either the opening or closing statement.

8. Close by painting a picture of how you'd contribute.

Your job throughout the letter is to demonstrate your focus on the organization, and how your experience and skills line up with its needs. You have a further opportunity at the end of the letter to sum up that contribution.

"I look forward to speaking with you to discuss how I can put my [insert specific] skills and experience to work to deliver exceptional customer service to ABC’s clients."

9. Create a call to action.

The end of the letter should convey your appreciation, and invite action.

"Thank you for considering me for this unique opportunity to [insert job purpose]. I am available at [insert phone number] should you need further information."

Close your letter with "Sincerely," and formally note enclosures like a resume or anything specifically requested in the posting.

10. Proofread your letter.

Before you sign the letter, create a PDF version, and send it off, ensure that you've taken the time to review it for enhanced readability and impact.

Be sure to avoid these common cover-letter errors:

• Spelling and grammar mistakes.
• Word repetition; be sure to use a thesaurus.
• Passive verb tenses.
• Too many "I" statements; the cover letter is all about them.
• Clichés, slang, acronyms, or overly-flowery statements; stick to everyday language.
• Too little white space or unequal spacing between paragraphs.

It's true: Writing a solid resume cover letter takes effort and originality. But if you follow these steps, you'll demonstrate your sincere interest in the job and prove that you'll do what it takes to get it. The hiring team will be impressed, and you'll be that much closer to getting the job you want.

RELATED: Full-Time Mom: 10 Skills You Can Totally Add To Your Resume

Lisa Petsinis is a certified career and life coach and former human resources leader who works with resourceful individuals to uncover and communicate their brilliance, so they can land a job they'll love. Contact Lisa to learn more about her services and her unique insider's view and make meaningful progress in your career starting today.

60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must . 

Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.

Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done. 

You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates. 

And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.

Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples 

#1. career change cover letter example .

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

• Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
• Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
• Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.

Check out our guide video guide to learn how to write a Cover Letter that gets you HIRED!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example 

• Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
• Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
• Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.

Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish! 

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

• Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements. 
• Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job. 
• Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs. 

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

• Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career. 
• Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.

Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample. 

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

Here’s what this cover letter does right: 

• Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail. 
• Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements. 

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

• Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking. 
• Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.  
• Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression. 

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example 

• Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time. 
• A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression. 
• Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.

Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.  
• Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right? 
• Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.

Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume . 

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example 

• Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements. 
• Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.

For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

• Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template. 
• Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry. 
• Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.

Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.  
• Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.  
• Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.

Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter. 
• Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee. 
• Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression. 

Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

• Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing. 
• Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression. 
• Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability. 

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

• It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in. 
• Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better. 
• Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it. 

This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example 

• Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template. 
• Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length. 
• Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements. 

Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

• Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time. 
• Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention. 
• Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for. 

Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

• Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements. 
• Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are. 
• Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume. 

Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

• Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action. 
• Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication . 

This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

• Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles. 
• Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job. 

Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

• Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
• Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data. 
• Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this. 

This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities.
• Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job.
• Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements.

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

40+ More Cover Letter Examples and Guides 

Couldn’t find a cover letter example for your field? Do not worry.

Below you can find a number of other cover letter examples for different fields and industries:

• Acting Cover Letter Examples
• Accounting Cover Letter Examples
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Architecture Cover Letter Examples
• Attorney Cover Letter Examples
• Barista Cover Letter Examples
• Bartender Cover Letter Examples
• Business Cover Letter Examples
• Business Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• College Student Cover Letter Examples
• Computer Science Cover Letter Examples
• Construction Cover Letter Examples
• Consultant Cover Letter Examples
• Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
• Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• Data Entry Cover Letter Examples
• Dental Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Digital Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Finance Cover Letter Examples
• Graphic Design Cover Letter Examples
• Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
• Human Resources Cover Letter Examples
• IT Cover Letter Examples
• Law Cover Letter Examples
• Management Cover Letter Examples
• Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter Examples
• Physician Cover Letter Examples
• Project Manager Cover Letter Examples
• Receptionist Cover Letter Examples
• Retail Cover Letter Examples
• Sales Cover Letter Examples
• Social Work Cover Letter Examples
• Software Engineer Cover Letter Examples
• Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Teacher Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Team Leader Cover Letter Example

What is a Cover Letter? 

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your 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 give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).

So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day. 

Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough. 

Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:

• Header - Input your contact information.
• Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
• Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
• The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
• The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
• Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."

#1. Pick the right template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?

You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!

#2. Add your contact details on the header

The best way to start your cover letter is through a header. 

Here’s what you want to include there:

• Phone Number
• Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
• Name of the company you’re applying to

Optionally, you can also include the following:

• 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 content portfolio site or blog.

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter. 

A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.

So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?

One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.

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.

If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• To whom it may concern
• Dear [Department] Team

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

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 problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking 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.

As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates. 

What you want to do, instead, is 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. 

For example:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its 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 my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.

The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.

Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?

#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job

One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job. 

A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.

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 and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as 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

#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit

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 . 

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company's 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?

Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter! 

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
• Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite. 
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible. 

#8. Write a 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 in a cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

#9. Proofread your cover letter

Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included. 

The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos! 

For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article ! 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:

1. How do I write a simple cover letter? 

To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action). 

2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter? 

The three parts of a cover letter are: 

• The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph. 
• The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter. 
• The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.

3. What makes a great cover letter?

A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”

To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.

Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by. 

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .

Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.

And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.

If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles: 

• How to Write a Resume
• Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
• Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

How to Write a Great Cover Letter in 6 Steps

• January 2, 2022
• In Resumes & Cover Letters

Your cover letter is an opportunity to impress. Get it right, and a hiring manager will open your beautifully crafted resume with relish and a sense of optimism. Get it wrong, and they’ll open it grudgingly, or not at all. Even in today’s digital world, cover letters in whatever form remain as relevant as they’ve ever been. Here’s how to get yours right.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a brief introductory summary of your qualifications and interest accompanying your resume. It presents the reader with an overview of your current responsibilities, followed by accomplishments that indicate your qualifications for the position. The goal of the cover letter is to refer yourself and your resume so that you’ll have an opportunity to sell yourself.  

Typically, resumes will simply feature professional skills , but cover letters will elaborate on where candidates envision themselves within the firm and what they intend to perform in the job. But this is a first-impression moment. Establish trust by making your cover letter fully meet the reader’s expectations. Discover why they need someone like you and summarize your credentials to help them see you’re the one they want on their team. This will ensure a cover letter leaves a lasting impression and motivate the reader to open your resume.

How to write a cover letter step-by-step

When writing a cover letter, adhere to a basic format and avoid repeating your resume. A well-written one will wow hiring managers and distinguish you from other candidates.  

Before you start writing, research the organization and position you are applying for to avoid sending a generic cover letter. The following tips outline the most effective structure and points to make your cover letter stand out.   

1. Contact information

Include your complete contact information so you’re sure the organization has it, don’t just rely on your email address making it cleanly through an email trail. Your email address should create a professional impression. Don’t use an email address like [email protected] . Always include a date so that your communication has a solid reference and can be found for queries in the future.

2. Salutation/greeting

Be formal and use ‘Dear …’, not ‘Hi,’ until you have a well-established dialogue with someone. Write to a named individual; it shows respect, and you’re more likely to get personal attention. If necessary, ring the organization and ask who to address your communication to. It demonstrates thoroughness and professionalism.

3. Opening part

Your opening paragraph will make or break your chances with the hiring manager. You want to keep it short and sweet and get to the point. At the same time, you need it to stand out and grab the attention of the reader. This paragraph is your chance to capture the attention of the hiring managers and make them want to read more. Generally, your opening paragraph should address three main things. These include how you find out about the position, your experience, and what you can bring to the company. For example, a simple opening paragraph may sound like this:

4. Middle part

Once you have the attention of the hiring manager, it is time to convince them you are the perfect fit for the role and company. The body of your cover letter should highlight why you are more suitable than other applicants, and why the company is right for you. Essentially, this is the most critical part of your cover letter. In the second part of the body, expand on why you chose this particular company. Explain why you would like to work for them – have you attended their events? Did you like their marketing campaigns?

Mainly, show that you are genuinely interested in the company, and don’t be afraid to point out what in particular you like. Then, tease what you could bring to the company as an employee. Base this on your experience and recent news about the company. For example, propose a solution to a problem they have been facing. Show the hiring manager that you are valuable and would fit right in.

“ I believe I would make a valuable addition to the company based on my research and in-person experience with various teams at networking events.  

In particular, I believe I can contribute significantly in the following key areas:  

• Leadership – I oversaw the development and implementation of a sales strategy and a cross-sell methodology that capitalized on existing customer connections to offer new solutions. This led to an increase in revenue of more than 15 percent in the first six months. I have a leadership style that fosters respect, integrity, and dedication, combined with a passion for organizational strategy that accelerates the company’s growth.
• Collaboration – Throughout my professional career, I have prioritized collaboration with my coworkers, trainees, and stakeholders. My approach is driven by self-awareness, self-monitoring, accountability, and emphasizing open channels of cross-department communication.  
• Financial Management — I have an in-depth comprehension of effective financial company management. I oversaw all transactions and bookkeeping for one-third of our global market, ensuring that business choices were based on good financial understanding. This has resulted in a more than 25 percent increase in revenue and a 170 percent increase in market share over the last two years. ”

5. Closing part

Your closing paragraph should summarize your main points and conclude your cover letter – like in an essay. In other words, your ending should be short and to the point. Thank the hiring manager for consideration and reiterate your excitement about this opportunity. When summarizing your experience, focus on the value you would bring to the company. Finally, don’t forget to structure your closing paragraph as an offer. You have explained your value in the body of your cover letter; now, offer that value to the hiring manager.

For example, tell them how excited you would be to discuss how your area of expertise could help the company grow. However, avoid trying to sell yourself too hard. Sometimes, this can be seen as disrespectful and could decrease your chances of getting the job.

“I appreciate your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing my experience, skills, aspirations, and professional objectives in detail during an in-person interview. I am also hoping to present some of my previous projects and their impact to demonstrate why I would be a great fit for the Sales Manager role at [Company Name].”

6. Complimentary close and signature

Use ‘Yours sincerely’ if you have a person’s name at the start. If you’ve started with ‘Dear Sir’, or similar, use ‘Yours faithfully’ to sign off. On a document, include a copy of your signature, even if it’s just an added image, and put your full name below it. If your cover letter is an email or an online form box, sign off with your full name, not just a first name.

How to write a cover letter with no experience  

Is it possible to write a cover letter that would help you stand out against qualified applicants if you have no formal work experience? The answer is yes; it is entirely feasible and simpler than you would imagine. Focus your cover letter on the soft and hard skills you’ve acquired via informal employment, internships, school activities, volunteering, and academic courses.

Most importantly, show your desire to learn and grow within the organization using your skills. Here is an excellent example of a cover letter with no experience:  

Dear Mrs. Doe,    

Your opening for the position of Junior Sales Representative caught my eye the moment I saw it on the internet. I’ve been following your company for years now, and your commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing aligns perfectly with my values.  

As a recent graduate of Business Administration, I have had the chance to get first-hand experience with the most widely-used sales processes that I would be happy to apply at your company. I am used to leading small teams of 5-10 people towards success, and I have had extensive training in sales management, customer service, and business communication.

I am dedicated to excellence, creative, communicative, and thrive in fast-paced environments. At the same time, I share the values of sustainability, ethical production, and the overall unification of the city. 

Thank you for your consideration. I have attached my resume, where you can find an overview of my most outstanding achievements and qualifications, and I enthusiastically await your response.  

Yours sincerely, (Your Name)

Read more:  How To Write a Cover Letter With No Experience in 9 Steps

How to write a cover letter when you are changing careers

Writing a cover letter for a career change involves some planning and preparation. If you’re changing careers, your cover letter should include the following:  

• Your transferrable skills  
• Past work experience that applies to the new position
• The reason you’re changing careers
• Why you chose their company

Your cover letter should demonstrate to the hiring manager how your skills and previous jobs, even if in another field, have prepared you to take on the new job’s duties. Demonstrate that you bring a fresh viewpoint that could benefit their team and the company.

How to write a cover letter when you are underqualified  

If you lack some of the qualifications but are still determined to get the job, your cover letter could make or break your chances. To start, assess your skills and qualifications against the job description. This will show you what to focus on and what the employer might have an issue with. In the body of your cover letter, focus on the strengths and positives.

Highlight your most significant accomplishments , skills , or awards – if they are somewhat relevant to the position. But don’t sweep your gaps in knowledge under the table. Instead, address them directly, and explain how you are working towards improving on the areas in which you lack expertise. Finally, let your enthusiasm and passion for the position shine through to leave a positive impression.  

How to write a cover letter as a fresh graduate  

As tempting as it might be, it bears minimal results to apply to dozens of positions without a cover letter when searching for your first full-time job after graduation. Instead, aim to write a brief, value-driven cover letter that highlights your passion for the role and company.

Focus on the skills and experience you gained during your time in school and explain how these could be beneficial to the company. Apart from those, remember to show off your soft skills and keep the tone positive throughout.

FAQ:  How to write a cover letter

• What is a cover letter, and when should I use one?   A cover letter is an introduction of you as a job candidate. From your greatest strengths to your most significant professional achievements, your cover letter gives you the chance to expand on your resume and make the reader want to know more. In general, you should use a cover letter with each job application unless the job listing clearly says not to.
• Does anyone actually read a cover letter? Contrary to popular belief, cover letters are still very popular with hiring managers. In fact, many agree that a cover letter can help them decide whether or not a candidate will move further in the hiring process.
• What is a cover letter and a letterhead?  To make your cover letter look more professional, you can include a letterhead. A letterhead is a page heading that summarizes your contact information and address. Including a letterhead can make your cover letter look modern and polished and save you time when putting together your other job application documents by becoming the go-to format.
• What is the best way to end a cover letter?  After writing the body of your cover letter, you should write a short closing paragraph. This section should reiterate your excitement about the opportunity and urge the reader to follow up with you upon receipt. Then, you can end your cover letter with a simple “Sincerely,” “Faithfully,” or similar.

What to include in a great cover letter

Success lies within the effort you put in. Revisit your previous resume research and use it to inform and tailor your content.

• What does the company do, what are their products, and who are their customers?
• What markets do they serve, what challenges do they face, and who are their competitors?
• What does the role involve, what are the objectives, and what skills do you need?

Concentrate on the following points:

• Write to a named person. If necessary, ring HR, and ask who to address your application to.
• Show some added value. Have you got an extra skill or experience not asked for, but which would be highly valuable?
• Appeal to underlying needs. If you understand the hiring manager’s problems, you can focus on presenting skills or experience that would help.
• Show your personality. Be a focused business-like professional, but show genuine enthusiasm and a reason why you love this market, product, or job.
• Use key-words. If they want a widget manager and you say, “I’m a widget manager,” you’re halfway there already. Play to their highlighted desires in the job ad.
• Include contact details.  Please don’t rely on your email address, making it cleanly through an email trail.

What not to include in your cover letter

• Don’t repeat your resume. Present added value and hooks into your resume.
• Avoid hyperbole and exaggeration. Don’t say, “I’m excellent at …”. Who says?
• Don’t get off track. Irrelevant words waste time and disappoint the reader.
• Don’t beg. Emotional pleas show you as self-centered and are a turn-off.
• Leave out your life story. That’s in your resume, effectively.

Questions to ask before sending your cover letter

• Have I clearly introduced myself and my professional experience within the first two sentences of the cover letter?
• Is my cover letter format unique, and does my cover letter stand out?
• Have I highlighted my most relevant qualifications and achievements?
• Have I mentioned the information I found out about the company as well as the role I am applying for?
• Have I highlighted why I want to work for this company?
• Is my cover letter neat, clean, and well-presented?
• Is my cover letter error-free?
• Is my cover letter short and concise?
• Do I ask for an interview in the cover letter?

You may also be interested in:

• Can a Resume be 2 Pages? (Tips & Tricks)
• Top 9 Resume Fonts to Level Up Your Resume in 2019
• Cover Letter Format: A Step by Step Guide for 2022
• Cover Letter Examples [To Get Inspired in 2022]

Create a Perfect Resume in Minutes

• Choose one of our professionally designed resume templates
• Fill in your summary, experience, education, skills, and more
• Export & start applying for jobs today!

Browse templates

Jon Gregory

Jon Gregory is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse range of expertise in the career development field.  As a respected and sought-after expert, he serves as a career adviser at Resumeway, a National Careers Week Ambassador, and a Careers Expert Member for The Guardian.

• No products in the cart.
• Resume Writing Service
• Free Resume Review
• Resume Templates
• Career Advice