business cover letter resume

Privacy preference center

We care about your privacy

When you visit our website, we will use cookies to make sure you enjoy your stay. We respect your privacy and we’ll never share your resumes and cover letters with recruiters or job sites. On the other hand, we’re using several third party tools to help us run our website with all its functionality.

But what exactly are cookies? Cookies are small bits of information which get stored on your computer. This information usually isn’t enough to directly identify you, but it allows us to deliver a page tailored to your particular needs and preferences.

Because we really care about your right to privacy, we give you a lot of control over which cookies we use in your sessions. Click on the different category headings on the left to find out more, and change our default settings.

However, remember that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience of our website. Finally, note that we’ll need to use a cookie to remember your cookie preferences.

Without these cookies our website wouldn’t function and they cannot be switched off. We need them to provide services that you’ve asked for.

Want an example? We use these cookies when you sign in to Kickresume. We also use them to remember things you’ve already done, like text you’ve entered into a registration form so it’ll be there when you go back to the page in the same session.

Thanks to these cookies, we can count visits and traffic sources to our pages. This allows us to measure and improve the performance of our website and provide you with content you’ll find interesting.

Performance cookies let us see which pages are the most and least popular, and how you and other visitors move around the site.

All information these cookies collect is aggregated (it’s a statistic) and therefore completely anonymous. If you don’t let us use these cookies, you’ll leave us in the dark a bit, as we won’t be able to give you the content you may like.

We use these cookies to uniquely identify your browser and internet device. Thanks to them, we and our partners can build a profile of your interests, and target you with discounts to our service and specialized content.

On the other hand, these cookies allow some companies target you with advertising on other sites. This is to provide you with advertising that you might find interesting, rather than with a series of irrelevant ads you don’t care about.

Business Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Creating a business cover letter that's convincing enough to provoke interest and spark curiosity requires a certain finesse. It's definitely not a walk in the park, but with the right guidance, you can pen an excellent cover letter that stands out. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll expose you to the secrets of crafting a compelling business cover letter that gets results. Filled with useful tips, examples, and well-articulated guidelines, this guide promises to be your trusty companion in your job hunt journey.

Now, let’s delve into:

• Formatting your business cover letter properly
• Writing an effective header
• Crafting a compelling cover letter headline
• Customizing the greeting of your cover letter
• Building a strong introduction for your business cover letter
• Making your business skills and accomplishments stand out
• Writing a persuasive conclusion
• Avoiding common mistakes on a business cover letter
• Average salary and job outlook for business professionals
• Business resources for job seekers

1. How to properly format your business cover letter

A well-structured business cover letter goes beyond impressive content. Equally crucial is how you package your message, here's how to do it right:

• Consistent font and size: Stick to a single, professional font type throughout your cover letter. Typical business-standard fonts include Times New Roman, Arial, and Calibri at font sizes 10-12.
• Appropriate margins: Set 1-inch margins on all sides to give plenty of white space, making your letter easier to read.
• Single spacing: Ideally, keep the body of your cover letter single-spaced with a space between each paragraph. 
• Contact information: At the top-left corner of your cover letter, include your full name, address, phone number, and email address. For email cover letters, this information can go after your signature.
• Clear sections: Divide your cover letter into clear sections — introduction, body, and conclusion. This gives it a coherent and professional structure.

Lastly, don't forget to proofread your letter to catch any errors or typos. Remember, your business cover letter is your first impression. Make it count!

Keeping these formatting tips in mind will ensure your business cover letter is both smooth to read and easy to navigate.

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

2. how to write an effective business cover letter header.

The header of your business cover letter sits at the topmost part of the document. It contains crucial contact details and sets the tone for your letter. So, what exactly should your header contain ? Let's delve in.

Your header should include:

• Your full name
• Your mailing address
• Your phone number
• Your professional email address
• Date of the letter
• Full name and title of the hiring manager
• Company name
• Company mailing address

Now, let's have a look at a couple of examples to differentiate the correct and incorrect ways of formatting:

Incorrect business cover letter header example

[email protected] 1234567 ABC Company Today’s date

Why is this a weak header? It lacks essential information such as your full name, your and the employer's address, and the proper positioning of these details. It's also missing the hiring manager's name and lacks structure.

Correct business cover letter header example

John Doe 167 My Street My City, State, Zip Phone: (123) 456-7890 Email: [email protected] [Today’s Date]

To: Ms. Jane Smith ABC Company 123 Their Street Their City, State, Zip

Why is this a strong cover letter header? In this example, all necessary information is included. The contact information for both the jobseeker and hiring manager is well laid out with clear structure, making it easy for the recruiter to reach out if necessary. 

Remember that the header sets the stage for your business cover letter. And so, it’s definitely worth spending some time getting it right!

3. How to write a compelling cover letter headline

After shaping a professional header, let's focus on the next crucial element: your cover letter headline . This component, particularly important in email applications, serves as your letter's "front door," enticing the reader to enter and explore further. Here's how to make it impactful:

• Be brief but compelling
• Clearly state your intent, including the job title or reference number if available
• Be professional — avoid using slang, jargon or overly casual language

Now, let's look at a few examples of weak and strong cover letter headlines:

Weak business cover letter headline examples

• Job Application
• Resume Attached
• Ready to Get to Work!

Why are these incorrect? They lack specificity. These examples don't mention the role you're applying for and are overly generic ("Job Application", "Resume Attached"). What’s more, "Hello! Ready to Get to Work!" is simply too informal and unprofessional. 

Strong business cover letter headline examples

• Certified SEA Specialist John Doe Applying for Digital Marketing Role
• Bilingual Customer Service Professional for Account Manager Role
• Project Manager with 5 Years in Tech Seeking New Challenges

Why are these examples correct? These headlines are not only concise but also indicative of what's to come in the letter body. They mention the role targeted, offer a quick peek into the candidate's qualifications or unique selling points (certification, bilingual skills, industry specific experience), and thus add an intriguing layer to the professionalism. 

Remember, a powerful headline is essentially your “elevator pitch” — it should succinctly celebrate your most relevant strengths and hint at the potential value you could bring to the role.

Find out your resume score!

4. How to customize the greeting in your business cover letter

Personalizing the greeting in your business cover letter is more than just a polite formality — it's a subtle yet powerful way to convey respect and show that you've put in the effort to research the company . 

Why is it important? A personalized greeting creates a connection, demonstrating that you're not just sending a generic application but you've taken the time to tailor your letter to this specific job and company. 

But where do you find the name of the hiring manager? Here are some sources:

• The job listing: Sometimes, the name of the hiring manager may be given in the job advertisement.
• Company website: Many companies have a team page on their website where they list key personnel.
• LinkedIn: This professional networking site is a treasure trove of such information.
• Call or email: If you can't find the information online, it may be worth making a quick phone call or sending an email to the company to ask.

Let's look at examples of personalized greetings

• Dear Hiring Manager Nelly Johnson,
• Dear Mrs. Johnson,
• Dear Nelly Johnson,

Now, what if you've searched everywhere and still can't find a name ? Here are some general, yet respectful, greetings you could use:

• Dear Hiring Manager, — It's direct and applicable to any job application.
• Dear [Company Name] Team, — Best used when you're unsure who'll be reading your cover letter, but know it'll be a team. 
• To Whom It May Concern, — A traditional phrase for unknown recipients. Use it sparingly, as it can appear overly formal or outdated.

Remember, the goal of a personalized greeting is to start the letter on a respectful note, conveying your attention to detail and respect for the reader.

5. How to write a strong introduction to your business cover letter

The opening lines of your business cover letter carry a weighty task. They serve as a gateway into your professional story and set the stage for what's to follow. This section, typically includes:

• A quick introduction of yourself, comprising a brief overview of your professional and academic history
• A clear statement on why you're applying for this particular role
• A mention of a mutual connection, if applicable

Let's delve into examples showcasing what to avoid and tips for both experienced professionals and fresh graduates:

Incorrect business cover letter introduction example

I'm writing to apply for the Business Analyst position. I have a degree in Business and I’d love to get this job.

Why is this a weak intro? This introduction lacks enthusiasm and fails to convey any unique skills or reasons why the candidate wants the specific job.

Correct introduction for an experienced professional

As a seasoned Business Analyst with a Master’s in Business Analytics and over 10 years of experience in improving operational efficiency, I was excited to find the opening at XYZ Corporation. Having long admired your commitment to innovation, I am eager to contribute my strategic insights and implement solutions that drive growth.

Why is this a strong cover letter introduction? This example showcases the candidate's qualifications, explains why they are applying, and reflects an understanding of the company's values, showing both purpose and passion.

Swinging the spotlight over to fresh graduates now, let's examine how your intro can become a dynamic showcase of your academic prowess and enthusiasm for professional growth:

Business cover letter introduction for a fresh graduate

Greetings, my name is Susan and as a recent Business Graduate from ABC University, top of my class, I am eager to apply my theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. The entry-level Business Analyst role at XYZ Corporation seems like the perfect opportunity because of your focus on mentorship and professional growth.

Why is this a great opening? Fresh graduates may not have much professional experience, but this intro turns that into a positive. It highlights academic credentials, explains why the specific role is appealing, and showcases understanding of the company's ethos.

Remember, your introduction isn't just about stating who you are. It's about grabbing attention, sparking interest, and compelling the hiring manager to continue reading.

6. How to highlight your top business skills and accomplishments

The heart of your business cover letter lies in its body — it's where the spotlight falls on your skills, achievements , and qualifications.

Format it as a concise and easy-to-read narrative, spanning one to two paragraphs. Make use of bullet points to showcase multiple achievements, but keep it down to a maximum of three to five. Your aim is to make a strong case for why you are the right person for the job.

When highlighting your skills , focus on those most relevant to the position you're applying for and which align with the main requirements listed in the job ad. 

Some relevant skills for a business professional might include

• Strategic planning
• Project management
• Financial acumen
• Business development
• Analytical thinking
• Collaboration & team leadership
• Excellent communication

When it comes to achievements, quantify them wherever possible. Use numbers , percentages, or other specific metrics to demonstrate the impact you've made.

Cover letter body paragraph example for an experienced professional

In my role as Business Development Manager at ABC Corp, I implemented strategic initiatives that resulted in a 20% increase in annual revenue. My passion for fostering profitable relationships helped secure four major account contracts. I also led a team that successfully introduced a new product line, which boosted our market share by 15%.

Now, if you're a newbie without extensive experience, don't fret. Focus on your academic achievements, internships, or voluntary work that demonstrate transferable skills. Mention relevant coursework, projects, or case studies you've worked upon during your studies.

Cover letter body paragraph example for a fresh graduate

During my final year at XYZ University, my group won the top prize in the business strategy competition. We formulated a comprehensive go-to-market strategy for a hypothetical product, which was praised for its innovation and detailed understanding of market dynamics. Additionally, my internship at DEF Ltd. allowed me to work on a potentially disruptive business model and honed my analytical skills.

Remember, the body of your cover letter should not just echo your resume; it should supplement it with a narrative that brings out your passion, personality, and professional strengths .

7. How to craft a persuasive conclusion for your business cover letter

Wrapping up your business cover letter with a strong conclusion is as essential as a dynamic opening. It's your final pitch, your closing argument that reinforces your interest in the role and leaves a lasting, positive impression.

Your conclusion should include:

• A reiteration of your interest in the role and the company
• How and when you can be reached. This could be your email address, phone number, or both
• A statement suggesting when you would like to hear from them, if applicable
• Your plan to follow up
• A formal and polite sign-off

Remember, the aim of this closing part is to reinforce your eagerness for the role, politely push for the next steps, and provide easy ways for the employer to contact you.

Here's an example of a strong cover letter conclusion

In conclusion, I'm excited about the opportunity to bring my unique mix of experience, skills, and passion to XYZ Corp as your new Business Analyst. I'm ready to leverage my analytical abilities and strategic insights for the growth and success of your team. 

You can reach me at [email protected] or (123) 456-7890. I hope to hear from you by next week, but if I don’t, I will take the initiative to follow up. 

Thank you once again for considering my application. 

Sincerely, 

[Your Name]

In essence, a conclusion is the ribbon that ties your cover letter together, creating a neat, persuasive, and memorable package for the recruiter. Make it count!

8. How to avoid common mistakes on a business cover letter

Despite good intentions, many business professionals unwittingly fall into traps that weaken their cover letters . But with a little caution, these common missteps can be avoided. Let's explore:

• Using a generic template: While templates can be handy, if used indiscriminately, they rob your cover letter of individuality. Solution: Customize your letter for each application, reflecting the specific role and company values.
• Repeating your resume: Your cover letter should complement your resume , not replicate it. Solution: Use your cover letter to share your story, explain context, or delve deeper into key achievements.
• Neglecting company research: Failing to demonstrate an understanding of the company shows a lack of initiative. Solution: Do your homework about the company and articulate why you're a good match for not only the role, but also the company culture.
• Making it all about you: While it’s important to showcase your skills and qualifications, the cover letter should balance this with how you'll add value to the company. Solution: Make the connection between your abilities and the company's needs clear.
• Overlooking typos/mistakes: Even the smallest typo can suggest a lack of attention to detail. Solution: Proofread your cover letter multiple times. Consider using proofreading tools or having someone else review it for a fresh perspective.
• Being overly formal: While maintaining a professional tone is crucial, an overly formal tone can make your letter seem impersonal. Solution: Use a conversational but professional tone to add warmth to your writing.
• Writing lengthy paragraphs: Large blocks of text can deter the reader. Solution: Break down content into shorter paragraphs or bullet points for ease of reading.

Remember, an effective business cover letter is not just error-free, but also personalized, focused, and reflective of your professional brand.

9. Average salary and outlook for business professionals

For those angling their career compass towards business and financial sectors, the future looks promising. Drawing from the freshest data, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a growth rate in this sector that outpaces the average across all professions from 2022 through 2032.

This positive trend signals a sea of job opportunities in the industry. The numbers speak volumes, with a whopping 911,400 job openings predicted annually on average in these fields.

Rewarding compensation comes hand in hand with these opportunities. As of May 2022, business and financial professionals could expect a median annual wage of $76,850 . As a comparison, this figure notably surpasses the median yearly wage for all occupations, which is pegged at $46,310. 

In a nutshell, for those looking at a career in business, the rising job prospects coupled with lucrative salaries make this sector a promising and fulfilling path to consider in the foreseeable future.

10. Essential business resources for job seekers

In the competitive landscape of business, having a stellar resume and cover letter is just the starting point. To stay ahead, you need to tap into resources that can help you not only land your dream job but also pioneer your ongoing professional journey. Here are a few resources you should be considering:

• LinkedIn: This professional networking platform is a treasure trove for job seekers, from connecting with potential employers to exploring job postings. What’s more, you can now turn your LinkedIn profile into a polished resume within a few seconds.
• Job boards: Job boards such as Indeed or Glassdoor allow you to search for vacancies across industries and locations, offer company reviews, and even provide estimates on salary expectations.
• Industry-related groups and forums: Joining groups and forums related to business and finance can give you insights into what's new in your field and who's hiring — for instance, groups on Facebook , Reddit , or LinkedIn .
• Professional associations: Being a part of associations such as the American Business Women’s Association or Business Professionals of America can offer networking opportunities, job listings, and professional development resources.
• Local chamber of commerce: Your local Chamber of Commerce can provide valuable networking opportunities, workshops, and information about local businesses. 
• Career fairs: Attending career fairs puts you in direct contact with potential employers. Be prepared with your "elevator pitch" about who you are and your qualifications.
• Online webinars and workshops: E-learning platforms such as Coursera , Udemy , or SkillShare  offer various business and finance related webinars and workshops. These platforms not only help you hone your skills but also often feature job opportunities, allowing industry professionals to connect directly with potential employers.

Remember, it’s vital to stay agile and open to opportunities in today’s dynamic business world. These resources can provide you with the edge you need to navigate the business career landscape successfully, keeping you informed, connected, and ready to seize opportunities with both hands.

Business Cover Letter FAQ

Keep your business cover letter concise and impactful; ideally, it should be no more than one page long and contain three to four short paragraphs.

No, it's typically not recommended to include a photo on your cover letter. Stay professional by focusing on your skills and qualifications.

Even if not explicitly requested, it's a good idea to include a cover letter. A well-written cover letter provides an opportunity to showcase your motivation, skills and qualifications in a personalized narrative.

While it's good to demonstrate your knowledge of the industry, avoid using excessive jargon. Keep your language clear, professional, and accessible — remember, the person reading your letter might not be familiar with industry-specific terminologies.

No, it's important to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. Highlight skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job at hand, and take the opportunity to show your knowledge of and interest in the specific company.

Julia Gergelova

Julia is a professional writer, translator and graphic designer. She holds degrees in translation and interpretation, and has international work experience from a number of different countries in Europe as well as China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and as a graphic designer contributed to outlets such as  The Business of Business . She has a passion for lifelong learning and good coffee.

Subcategories

• Account Manager
• Business Development
• Entrepreneur / Business Owner
• Procurement

All business cover letter examples

Related business resume examples

Let your resume do the work.

Join 5,000,000 job seekers worldwide and get hired faster with your best resume yet.

Business Analyst Cover Letter Example (+ Full Guide for 2024)

Guide for 2024)

You’re the bridge between tech and business.

You can decode all sorts of complex data and translate it into actionable strategies for your employers.

Organizations depend on your analytical prowess to calculate their next steps and make sense of the market, and yet there’s something you can’t crack for yourself.

When it comes to writing your cover letter, you’re stumped.

You're used to analyzing vast datasets, identifying patterns, and drawing insights. But when it comes to talking about yourself , it's data paralysis!

But don't sweat it. We’re here to help!

In this article, we're going to cover:

• What a Perfect Business Analyst Cover Letter Looks Like
• The 5 Steps to Writing the Best Business Analyst Cover Letter

3 Essential Business Analyst Cover Letter Tips

Let's get started!

Business Analyst Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Business Analyst Cover Letter

Now that you've seen a top-notch business analyst cover letter in action, you're all set to write your own .

All you need to do is follow these straightforward steps:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

The first thing the hiring manager should see on your business analyst cover letter is your contact information. This should be located in your cover letter’s header, just like on your resume .

Let's break down what you should include:

• Full Name. Your name should take center stage at the very top.
• Professional Title. Your cover letter’s professional title should match the business analyst position you're aiming for, word for word. The hiring manager is probably going through a sea of applications, so you should be as clear as possible about the role you’re applying for.
• Email Address. Use a professional and straightforward email address, like a mix of your first and last name. An old, zany high school email won’t cut it here. For example, [email protected] isn't an email we’d recommend, but [email protected] works great.
• Phone Number. Carefully write in your exact phone number. A single typo here could cost you an interview. And if you’re applying for a job abroad, remember to add the dialing code in front.
• Location. Adding your city, state, or country is usually enough. But if you're on the hunt for a remote gig or have plans to relocate, mention so in both your business analyst resume and cover letter.
• Relevant Links (optional). If you have a personal website or relevant social media profiles, like LinkedIn or GitHub, add them to your cover letter.

Once you’re done with your contact information , it’s time to add those of the hiring manager.

Here's a checklist of what you need:

• Company Name. Write down the company's name. If it’s part of a conglomerate, just refer to the specific branch you’re applying to.
• Hiring Manager’s Name. Find the name of the hiring manager or head of the department you're applying to. The job ad or company LinkedIn profile should have what you’re looking for.
• Hiring Manager’s Exact Title. Once you’ve found the hiring manager, you can refer to them by their official title, such as Chief Technology Officer.
• Location. If the company has more than one location, be sure to specify which one you’re applying to. The city and state or country might be enough in some cases, but if there’s more than one office in your city, add the street name and number, too.
• Email Address (Optional). Add the hiring manager’s email address if you can find it.
• Date of Writing (Optional). Specify the date you’ve written your cover letter to add an extra dash of professionalism to your application.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've got all your contact details down, it's time to address your cover letter to its intended audience.

And ditch the out-of-date "To Whom It May Concern." It doesn't have the spark we're going for here.

A personalized greeting can make your business analyst cover letter resonate with the hiring manager and stand out from other candidates.

To get the information you need, dive into the job ad for the role you’re applying to and read it carefully. You can usually find the hiring manager’s name there. If you found the ad on a job board website that doesn’t have any information on the hiring manager, try the company's website or their LinkedIn page.

After that, it’s time for the formalities. Stick with "Ms." or "Mr." and the hiring manager’s surname. If you're left guessing about their gender or marital status, you can just use their full name. Here’s how:

• Dear Mr. Henderson,
• Dear Alex Henderson,

If you’re stuck trying to find their name, don't sweat it. You can just direct your letter to the broader team or even the company itself:

• Dear Company X,
• Dear Business Analysis Team,
• Dear Recruitment Team,
• Dear Head of Department X,

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers take only seven seconds to skim through a candidate's application before deciding if it’s worth reading more carefully.

So your business analyst's cover letter needs to make a strong first impression.

Start your cover letter by introducing who you are and your specific interest in the business analyst role. Conveying your enthusiasm for the field or the specific position can grab a hiring manager's attention and spark their interest in getting to know more about you.

Make sure you read about the company you're applying to. The more you understand about the company's goals and culture, the better you can showcase how you align with their values and vision. This strategic approach tells hiring managers that your application isn’t a random choice—you're genuinely interested in this particular role.

Feel free to lead with any relevant achievements or skills you have that match the job description. For example, if you implemented a data-driven analysis system that identified bottlenecks in the supply chain, that’s more than welcome in your cover letter.

But make sure to keep this part of your cover letter brief. The goal here is to make the hiring manager want to know more, and you’ll have the chance to give them more details later.

And, to be entirely sure your cover letter is perfect, avoid these common cover letter mistakes . 

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The heart of your business analyst cover letter is where you can present what sets you apart as the best candidate for the role.

But this doesn’t mean repeating your business analyst resume . This section of your business analyst cover letter is where you can highlight your analytical prowess, technical skills, and unique qualifications in the realm of business analysis. It's essential to weave everything into a narrative that tells the hiring manager you’re a fit for the role.

Make sure to mention any relevant achievements or past projects that match what the company is looking for based on the job description. Tailoring your cover letter to the exact business analyst ad you’re applying to is a great way to show the hiring manager you and their team are a match made in heaven. For example, if the job requires proficiency in Tableau, emphasize your skills in that particular software instead of general data visualization.

And lastly, let your enthusiasm shine through. Your cover letter should show the hiring manager that you’re genuinely interested in the business analyst position. Express your confidence that you can contribute to the company, but be careful not to veer into arrogance—you’re the absolute best at everything ever; you just happen to believe you match what they’re looking for right now.

Need more inspiration? Look at this article for more cover letter examples .

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Writing the perfect ending for your business analyst cover letter is a bit like putting the icing on a cake—it's that sweet final touch that ties everything together.

Your goal here is to make sure the hiring manager finishes your letter convinced by what you've shared about yourself so far.

In this closing statement , you want to quickly remind them why you're the best fit for the business analyst role and what makes you stand out from the crowd. After that, invite them to take some sort of action. This step can really boost your chances of scoring that crucial interview, so let them know you're eager to discuss your qualifications in more detail.

And don't forget to sign off like a professional. Keep it polite with an appropriate closing line, and add your full name underneath. Here's a handy template to help you with that:

I would love the opportunity to go over how my analytical expertise aligns with your organization's needs. Please don't hesitate to reach out using the provided contact details. I look forward to discussing my application further with you.

Warm regards,

Jane Trifonic

If you feel "Warm regards" might be a bit clichéd, consider these alternatives:

• Best regards,
• With appreciation,
• Thank you for your time and consideration,

You've got a handle on the cover letter essentials! Now let's kick it up a notch with some tailored cover letter tips for business analysts.

Ready to up your game?

#1. Match Your Resume

When diving into the business analyst job market, first impressions count!

You want your cover letter to match your resume as much as possible to help paint a picture of yourself as a meticulous and organized candidate.

Keep your text and contact information tidy, and use a uniform font style and size. And while you're at it, keep an eye out for the margins and line spacing so that your cover letter fits snugly within one page.

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Feeling pressed for time?

Just try our cover letter templates for a quick solution! Along with our free resume builder , you can use them to create the perfect business analyst application.

Each template is carefully crafted with the help of global hiring professionals, so they meet all industry standards while looking beautiful. Just pick one, align it with your resume, and apply to that dream job!

#2. Emphasize Your Achievements

Highlighting your achievements in your business analyst cover letter is crucial. It's not about boasting; it's about showing the hiring manager that you can bring value to their team.

But don’t just list your achievements. Your cover letter is a chance to craft a narrative around your most significant accomplishments and how they make you a great candidate for this specific business analyst role. Make sure you engage the hiring manager by tying your achievements to what they’re looking for in the job ad you applied to.

Focus on the challenges you've overcome and the impact you've made. Your achievements aren't just facts; they're proof of your skills and experiences essential for success in the role.

#3. Save It To The Right File Format

Now, you've put your heart and soul into crafting that perfect cover letter. It's time to ensure it reaches the hiring manager in its full glory. One key aspect that often gets overlooked is the file format you choose to save it in.

In this case, PDF is your best friend . When you save your cover letter as a PDF, you're making sure that your formatting stays put, no matter what OS or device the hiring manager uses to open it. There won’t be any awkward changes if they use their smartphone instead of a desktop PC, and your cover letter will look just like you intended it to.

But there are always exceptions to the rule. For example, if the job ad explicitly asks for a different file format, like DOC or RTF, then make sure you stick to that. In other cases, the application form might have an input box where you can paste your cover letter as plain text. With these exceptions aside, stick with the universal appeal of PDF to keep your formatting intact.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

Now you know everything you need about business analyst cover letters.

Hopefully, you feel more confident about finalizing your job application and landing that next business analyst gig.

But before we part ways, let’s do a quick recap of what we talked about:

• Always start off your cover letter with an intriguing first paragraph and include a standout achievement or notable skill. Mention just enough to get the hiring manager hooked and ready to learn more about you.
• Your cover letter is the place where you can convey your enthusiasm and why you’re right for the job. Don’t just repeat your resume; instead, tie everything into why it makes you the best choice for the specific position.
• The achievements on your cover letter will impress the hiring manager more than the daily responsibilities from your previous jobs. Emphasize your previous accomplishments to show them what you can bring to the table if you join their team.
• Once your cover letter is ready, save it in the correct file format. PDF is the industry standard, so unless the job ad explicitly asks for a different format, stick with that.

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

• SUGGESTED TOPICS
• The Magazine
• Newsletters
• Managing Yourself
• Managing Teams
• Work-life Balance
• The Big Idea
• Data & Visuals
• Reading Lists
• Case Selections
• HBR Learning
• Topic Feeds
• Account Settings
• Email Preferences

How to Write a Cover Letter That Sounds Like You (and Gets Noticed)

• Elainy Mata

Do the research, start off strong, and emphasize your value.

• EM Elainy Mata is a Multimedia Producer at Harvard Business Review. ElainyMata

Partner Center

Resume & Cover Letter

Resume and Cover Letter Guide (PDF) A complete guide for Foster students on writing undergraduate resumes. Includes sample resumes and answers to common questions such as:

• Can I include information from High School?
• How should I describe the work I did for an organization?
• Do I have to put my GPA on my resume?
• And many more!

Resume Quick Guide

Resume Template (Word Doc) A document displaying possible formatting and order of a traditional business resume.

Model Cover Letter (PDF) This sample cover letter describes the contents of each paragraph and identifying the type of information to include.

LinkedIn Resources

• Foster Undergraduate Career Services LinkedIn
• Build a Professional LinkedIn Account

• Future Students
• Parents/Families
• Alumni/Friends
• Current Students
• Faculty/Staff
• MyOHIO Student Center
• Visit Athens Campus
• Regional Campuses
• OHIO Online
• Faculty/Staff Directory

Academic Advising & Career Services

College of Business

• About the College
• Fast Facts & Rankings
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
• News & Events
• Accreditation
• College Leadership
• Advisory Boards
• Strategic Plan
• Centers & Institutes
• Faculty Research
• Plan Your Visit
• Faculty & Staff Directory
• Undergraduate Majors
• Undergraduate Minors
• Undergraduate Certificates
• Graduate Degrees
• Graduate Certificates
• Online Business Degrees
• Executive Education
• Selective Programs
• Copeland Core
• Student Organizations
• Integrated Business Cluster
• International Experiences
• Academic Advising
• Career Management
• Graduate Student Career Management
• Alumni Relations
• Employer Relations
• Admission Requirements
• Tuition and Fees
• Scholarships and Aid
• Transfer Students
• International Students
• Student Ambassadors
• Faculty and Staff

Helpful Links

Navigate OHIO

Connect With Us

Enhance Resumes and Cover Letters

It's your first impression. Make it a good one.

A resume is a summary of your professional and educational experiences. As a concise, easy-to-read, compelling document that outlines your qualifications for a position, recruiters use resumes to determine if they would like a candidate to move forward with an interview.

Recruiters spend an average of eight seconds looking at a resume. This means they only glean a small amount of information from a resume before making a decision to hold onto it or not. One spelling, grammar, or formatting error can lead to a recruiter disregarding your resume. Always double-check your resume and have someone else read it before submitting an application.

Resume Templates

• Resume Template: General [Word]
• Resume Template: First Year [Word]
• Resume Template: Including Business Cluster [Word]
• Resume Template: Including Study Abroad [Word]

Resume Resources

• Resume Guidelines [PDF]
• Action Verbs for Resume [PDF]
• Bullet Point Writing Worksheet [PDF]
• Formula for Strong Business Cluster Bullet Points [PDF]
• Elevating Bullet Points [PDF]

Cover Letters

A cover letter is an opportunity to describe your interest in and qualifications for a position. Cover letters also reveal a bit more about your personality and writing skills to recruiters.

The goal of a cover letter is to sell the employer on how your skills and experiences make you the best candidate for the job. Again, spelling, grammar, or formatting error can lead to a recruiter disregarding your cover letter. Always double-check your cover letter and have someone else it read it before submitting an application.

Cover Letter Resources

• Cover Letter Template [Word]
• Cover Letter Worksheet [PDF]
• Cover Letter Guidelines [PDF]

Need Help Perfecting Your Resume or Cover Letter?

When you're ready for a helping hand, we're here for you. Schedule an appointment or stop by our Ohio University College of Business office, located in Copeland 214. We're open Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. with drop-in hours from 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. during fall and spring semesters.