medical cover letter for resume

Healthcare Cover Letter Example (w/ Templates & Tips for 2024)

You've clocked in countless hours in hospitals and clinics, dedicating your skills to healing and caring for the sick. The sounds of heartbeats and monitors are as familiar to you as the rhythm of your own breath.

Your commitment to healthcare speaks volumes.

Yet, when it comes to writing a cover letter for your job application, you feel like you're attempting surgery with a stethoscope.

We know your struggle, and we’re here to help.

In this article, we’re going to guide you through perfecting the cover letter for your next job application.

Here's what we'll dive into:

• What a Standout Healthcare Cover Letter Looks Like
• 5 Simple Steps to Writing a Stellar Healthcare Cover Letter
• 3 Essential Cover Letter Tips for Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Healthcare Cover Letter

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

Now, it's your turn to write one . Just follow the steps we're about to share, and you'll be on the right track:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

When it comes to writing your healthcare cover letter, it all begins with your contact information, just like on your resume .

Let's dive into what you should include:

• Full Name. Make sure your complete name is right at the top of the page.
• Professional Title. Match the professional title on your cover letter with the specific healthcare position you're applying for. Hiring managers often sift through numerous applications, so clarity about the role you're targeting is a real plus.
• Email Address. Opt for an email address that's both professional and straightforward. A combination of your first and last names works best. (e.g: [email protected])
• Phone Number. Make sure that the phone number you provide is accurate so the hiring manager can easily reach you. If you're applying for a healthcare job abroad, remember to include the international dial code.
• Location. Typically, your city and state or country are sufficient. However, if you're considering relocation, be sure to mention it.
• Relevant Links (optional). If you have any relevant websites or social media profiles, such as LinkedIn, feel free to include them.

Once you've squared away your contact information , it's time to add the hiring manager's details:

• Company Name. State the name of the healthcare organization you're applying to.
• Hiring Manager's Name. If possible, include the name of the hiring manager for the specific healthcare department you're interested in.
• Hiring Manager's Title. If you discover that the hiring manager for this job ad has a more specific title, such as department head, you can use that instead of the generic "Hiring Manager."
• Location. Specify the city and state or country of the healthcare facility, particularly for organizations with a global presence. If you want to be extra specific, you can even include the exact street address.
• Date of Writing (optional). For a professional touch, consider adding the date when you wrote your cover letter, though this is optional.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

The next step to writing the perfect healthcare cover letter is to address it properly.

And we strongly advise against using the generic "To Whom It May Concern."

Getting the greeting right can make a positive impression on the hiring manager.

Do a bit of research first. Take a look at the job listing and the company's website, or check their profiles on LinkedIn or other social media. This can help you uncover the name of the person who'll be reviewing your cover letter, so you can personalize your cover letter’s greeting .

Next, address them in a formal yet friendly manner. Use "Ms.", "Mr.", or a title like “Dr.” when applicable, followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, just use their full name. Here are some examples:

• Dear Ms. Rodriguez
• Dear Dr. Rodriguez
• Dear Julio Rodriguez

If you can't find specific information about the hiring manager or the department head, it's perfectly okay to address your letter to the department or the company in general. Maintain a professional and friendly tone:

• Dear Healthcare Department
• Dear Hiring Team
• Dear Human Resources Team
• Dear Head of Department X

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

The truth is that hiring managers don’t take more than a few seconds to decide if your cover letter is worth reading in depth.

So, making a strong first impression is vital for a successful healthcare cover letter.

Begin your cover letter’s opening paragraph by introducing yourself and explaining why you have a genuine interest in the role. Expressing your enthusiasm for the healthcare industry or the specific position is a compelling way to capture the hiring manager's attention.

Doing some research on the healthcare organization can be useful here. The more you learn about the employer, the better you can emphasize your alignment with their work culture and mission. This demonstrates to the hiring manager that you're not just casually applying everywhere and seeing what sticks—you have a sincere interest in this particular role.

If you have the experience, you can boost your introduction by highlighting a significant accomplishment or mentioning a skill that makes you an ideal fit for the position. Just remember to keep this part snappy. You only have to spark the hiring manager's interest and encourage them to explore the finer details of your healthcare cover letter.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

Now that you’ve captured the hiring manager’s attention, it’s time to dive into the details.

The body of your cover letter is where you need to prove you’re the best candidate for the position. But don’t make the mistake of just repeating everything from your healthcare resume . This is the place where you can tie in your professional skills and experiences in a manner that sets you apart.

The best way to outshine the other applicants is to use the job advertisement as your compass. Read it carefully and keep in mind what skills and experiences the company expects from its candidates.

Whether it's expertise in a particular medical field or proficiency in a specific type of medical software, make sure to mention these in your healthcare cover letter. Based on the information you find, pick out a few of your relevant achievements and use them to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the role.

Illustrating your knowledge of the company, its healthcare initiatives, or the industry itself can also be a great advantage. If you're familiar with the company's healthcare services, specify so in your cover letter to prove your alignment with their mission and organizational culture.

And don’t forget to infuse enthusiasm into your writing. Your passion for the role should shine through as much as your healthcare know-how. Convey your confidence in your skills and experiences, and express your eagerness to contribute to the company's healthcare mission.

If you need more inspiration, check out these other cover letter examples !

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Once you’ve written the bulk of your healthcare cover letter, it’s time for the finishing touches.

Knowing how to end your cover letter can make the difference between winning a hiring manager over or getting tossed into the “no” pile.

Make sure you leave a positive impression on the hiring manager with a strong conclusion that reinforces your suitability for the role. Summarize your standout skills and why you're the ideal candidate.

Afterward, include a compelling call to action, inviting the hiring manager to delve deeper into your application. This proactive approach can boost your chances of securing an interview.

Lastly, sign off your letter like a professional. Choose an appropriate closing and include your full name, like so:

Please feel free to reach out to me via the provided email or phone number to discuss my application further. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to explore my qualifications with you.

Best regards,

Frank Jenkins

And remember, if you find "Best regards," too common, there are alternative sign-offs to consider, such as:

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

3 Essential Bartender Cover Letter Tips

We’ve covered the fundamentals of writing a healthcare cover letter, and now it's time to take it to the next level.

Just follow these useful cover letter tips :

#1. Match Your Resume

Ready to carve a path as a healthcare professional?

Make sure your healthcare cover letter aligns seamlessly with your resume template . This makes it much easier for the hiring manager to pick your documents out of the pile.

Your contact information should be clearly visible on your resume’s header, and the body of your text should fit neatly on the page. Maintain consistent font styles and sizes throughout your documents, and adjust the page margins and line spacing of your cover letter so it sticks to one page .

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Don’t have time to start from scratch?

Just use our free resume builder and pair it with one of our matching cover letter templates .

Say goodbye to your struggles with the formatting or layout. Our templates are your shortcut to a polished cover letter that complements your resume. Made with input from global hiring experts, they guarantee you a professional, industry-ready application in minutes.

#2. Mention Qualifications

Don't let your cover letter be a missed opportunity by skipping out on your relevant healthcare qualifications.

Sure, your healthcare resume already lists your education, but your cover letter lets you really dive deeper. It's your chance to tell the story behind that medical degree or that special training you took. Help the hiring manager see why those experiences make you a great fit for the role.

It's all about giving them the full picture of what you bring to the table, which increases your odds of getting an interview.

#3. Be Formal

Keeping your cover letter formal is essential. This isn't a casual email; it's your introduction to a healthcare institution, and missing the mark is a huge mistake .

Being formal shows that you're dedicated and professional. However, this doesn't mean you can't show some of your personality. It's all about balancing professionalism with polite friendliness.

Make sure you’re using the appropriate language and steer clear of slang. For example, instead of saying you can "handle things," specify that you're "competent in patient care." Maintaining formality positions you as a reliable and professional candidate who’s taking this healthcare role seriously.

Key Takeaways

That's it for crafting the ideal healthcare cover letter!

We hope you feel more confident in writing your own cover letter, and we have no doubt you’ll land your dream job in no time.

Before we say goodbye, let's revisit some of our article’s key points:

• Start your healthcare cover letter by clearly listing both your contact details and those of the hiring manager. Accuracy is crucial here since a single typo could mean missing out on an interview opportunity.
• Grab the hiring manager’s attention right from the beginning. If the opening paragraph doesn't engage them, they might not make it to the crucial details that follow.
• Use the main body of your resume to dive deeper into your standout achievements and skills. Align them with the job advertisement to make your case compelling.
• End with a compelling reason for them to get in touch, whether it's a call or an interview invite.
• Make sure your application is a matching set, so your resume and cover letter stand out from the rest. If you're pressed for time, consider using one of our matching resume and cover letter templates for a polished look.

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Healthcare Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Crafting a compelling healthcare cover letter doesn't have to be as daunting as it often seems. This guide can equip you with practical tips and illustrative examples to help you stand out from the crowd.

Aside from your resume , a cover letter is a key element in your application — it's your personal pitch and an opportunity to set yourself apart in the dense healthcare industry. An outstanding cover letter can differentiate you from other candidates and steer the recruiter's perspective in your favor.

And so, without further ado, keep reading to learn all about:

• Formatting your healthcare cover letter
• Creating your healthcare cover letter header
• Writing an effective cover letter headline
• Personalizing the greeting of your healthcare cover letter
• Writing a compelling healthcare cover letter introduction
• Highlighting your best professional skills & accomplishments in healthcare
• Ending your healthcare cover letter with a strong conclusion
• Avoiding common mistakes on a healthcare cover letter
• Average salary and job outlook for healthcare professionals

1. Format your healthcare cover letter properly

Just like a well-organized medical chart, your healthcare cover letter should be clear, structured, and easy to read. Here's how to properly format your cover letter :

• Length: Stick to one page. Keep your cover letter concise and to the point. 
• Alignment: Align all your text to the left. This ensures a clean, professional look.
• Margins: Use standard one-inch margins on all sides, so your cover letter looks tidy and well-spaced. 
• Font: Choose a professional, easy-to-read font such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri. Typically, a font size between 10 and 12 points works well.
• Sections: A well-formatted cover letter usually has three sections: opening paragraph, body, and closing. 
• Avoid dense text blocks: Keep your paragraphs short and manageable. You can also use bulleted lists where appropriate to break up information.

If you format your healthcare cover letter right, the document will be as easy to follow as a good presentation, guiding your potential employer through your qualifications and convincing them you're the right person for the role.

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

2. create an effective healthcare cover letter header.

The header of your healthcare cover letter is like the topmost section of a patient's medical record. It bears crucial identification information, providing an immediate context and line of communication to the reader.

Your header should incorporate two subsections — one for your contact information and one for your recipient's details:

Your Information:

• Mailing address (city and state is sufficient)
• Phone number
• Professional email address
• LinkedIn Profile (optional)

Recipient's information:

• Recipient's full name (try to determine the hiring manager's name)
• Professional title
• Company name
• Company address

Let's clarify this with examples. One is an incorrectly formulated header and the other adheres to the proper presentation style:

Incorrect healthcare cover letter header example

John Doe 123 Road (123) 456-7890 john@email

Company Address

Why is this header incorrect? The incomplete address, lack of professional email, and missing LinkedIn profile make it unprofessional. Moreover, the company's specifics, such as the hiring manager's name and their title, are not included.

Correct healthcare header example

John Doe 123 Road, Springfield, IL (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/johndoe January 1, 2023

To: Sarah Smith Human Resources Manager United Healthcare 456 Lane, Chicago, IL

Why is this header correct? It includes John's full name, abbreviated address, phone number, professional email address, and LinkedIn profile link. Plus, it notes the date and all the necessary information about the recipient, including their full name, job title, company name, and company address.

Remember that starting your healthcare cover letter with a thoroughly composed and professional header sets the right tone. It demonstrates your attention to detail and exhibits essential qualities such as diligence and respect for formal communication.

3. Write a compelling headline for your healthcare cover letter

The headline, sitting right below your header, serves as an introductory statement to your letter. It's your chance to draw in your reader by succinctly stating the position you're applying for and briefly highlighting your most relevant qualification or experience.

Your headline should:

• Mention the job title you're applying for.
• Showcase a key accomplishment or a unique qualification that sets you apart.

Incorrect healthcare professional’s headline example

Application for Healthcare Position

Why is this example incorrect? This headline is too vague. It doesn't specify the job title, nor does it highlight any unique achievements or qualifications.

Correct healthcare professional’s headline example

Registered Nurse with 5 Years of ICU Experience Seeking the RN Position at United Healthcare

Why is this example strong? This headline is on point. It immediately communicates the job being applied for (registered nurse) and underscores a significant accomplishment (5 years of ICU experience). This already sets the candidate apart, piquing the interest of the hiring manager.

A compelling headline can be the hook that reels the hiring manager into your cover letter. By being specific about the role you're applying for and presenting a notable achievement or attribute, your headline will serve as an effective preview to the rest of your content.

4. Personalize the greeting of your healthcare cover letter

The greeting of your cover letter is more important than you might think. Just as you would address a patient by their name to establish a personal connection, properly addressing the hiring manager can make your cover letter more engaging and set the right tone.

When a specific individual's name is used, it signals that you've put effort into understanding the company's team and that you respect and acknowledge your prospective employer.

Here are a few ways to personalize your greeting:

• If you know the hiring manager's full name and title , use them: "Dear Human Resources Director Jane Johnson,".
• If you know the name, but aren't sure about the title , use a more general greeting like "Dear Ms. Johnson,"..
• If you know the hiring manager's title but not their name , use this information. For instance, "Dear Hiring Manager," or "Dear Human Resources Director,"
• If you don't have any specific information , opt for a more general greeting: "Dear Hiring Team," or "Dear Sir/Madam,".

Regardless of the scenario, do your utmost to avoid starting your cover letter without any greeting — this can risk your letter coming off as impersonal or rushed. 

Remember, attention to detail is as relevant in your healthcare cover letter as it is in patient care. Being attentive to the small details, such as customizing your greeting, adds a personal touch that can help set you apart from other applicants.

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5. Write a compelling healthcare cover letter introduction

The opening of your healthcare cover letter sets the stage for what's to follow. It should provide:

• A concise summary of your professional and academic background.
• A compelling reason as to why you're applying for this specific role.
• If applicable, a mention of any mutual acquaintances or connections.

Here are two examples illustrating how this opening could look, based on your career stage:

Seasoned healthcare professional’s cover letter opening example

As an experienced Healthcare Administrator with over ten years in hospital management and a Master’s degree in Health Administration, I was thrilled to see the opportunity to apply for the Healthcare Administrator position at United Healthcare. I’ve admired United Healthcare’s commitment to quality patient care and efficient operation for many years and I believe my extensive experience in the field and proven ability to manage healthcare programs makes me a great fit for this role.

This introduction immediately presents the candidate's relevant experience, the level of education, and their specific interest in the company . There is a strong tie-in between their background and the role they're applying for.

Fresh graduate’s cover letter opening example

As a recent Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate from XYZ University, I am excited to start my nursing journey in a challenging yet supportive environment, like ABC Healthcare. During my clinical placements, I concentrated on critical care, which I understand is a focus area at ABC Healthcare. I believe that my academic accomplishments and passion for patient-centered care align well with your advertised Registered Nurse position.

Despite not having professional work experience, this fresh graduate highlights their specialization and relates it directly to the responsibilities of the desired position. They've clearly explained why they are enthusiastic about this particular role and work setting.

Remember, your cover letter is your opportunity to generate interest and compel the hiring manager to delve deeper into your resume. Crafting a compelling introduction primes the reader to learn more about you and what you can bring to the healthcare team.

6. Highlight your healthcare skills and accomplishments

The body of your healthcare cover letter is where you make your case . It's here you showcase key skills, highlight significant achievements, and illustrate why you're an ideal fit for the role. 

Here's a list of valuable skills of a healthcare professional

• Patient care & empathy
• Thorough clinical knowledge
• Teamwork & communication
• Detail-oriented & organizational skill
• Problem solving & decision-making

Experienced professionals tip: Use concise and impactful anecdotes to demonstrate application of these skills. 

Experienced healthcare professional’s accomplishments in a cover letter

In my role as a Registered Nurse at XYZ Hospital, I consistently maintained a patient satisfaction rate of over 95%. My deep clinical knowledge and exceptional problem-solving skills proved invaluable during a critical incident where I successfully identified a rare drug interaction missed by the team, preventing further complications.

Fresh graduates or less experienced candidates tip: Draw on experiences from internships, placements, or academic projects. Highlight your understanding of healthcare practices and your eagerness to learn.

Fresh graduate’s accomplishments in a cover letter

During my studies at XYZ University, I completed an eight-week placement in an acute care setting. I participated in patient care with a strong focus on empathy and communication. Additionally, I identified a discrepancy in the medication inventory during an academic project which instituted a review of the current system, demonstrating my problem-solving, decision-making, and keen attention to detail.

A well-crafted body of your cover letter, peppered with relevant skills and achievements, creates a compelling argument for your candidacy. Whether seasoned or just starting, remember to connect your past experiences directly to the job requirements and demonstrate how you're an ideal fit.

7. End your healthcare cover letter persuasively

Wrapping up your healthcare cover letter is as essential as a well-rounded treatment plan in a medical scenario. It’s your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression , motivate the recruiter for the next interaction: an interview invitation. 

This section should:

• Extend gratitude to the recruiter for their time and consideration
• Clearly state when you're available for further discussion
• Indicate your preferred mode of communication
• Mention that you will follow-up
• Include a professional sign-off

Ineffective healthcare professional’s cover letter conclusion

Please refer to my attached resume. Thank you.

Why is this example wrong? This ineffective closing lacks finesse and important details. It doesn’t exhibit any enthusiasm or keenness for the role or hint at any further interactions. There’s also no indication of the candidate's availability for an interview or preferred mode of communication.

Effective healthcare professional’s cover letter conclusion

Thank you for your time and considering my application. I greatly appreciate your efforts to understand how my experience aligns with the values and needs at United Healthcare. I am excited about the possibility of contributing my skills to your team. My preferred contact method is email, but I’m also available on the phone. I can provide additional information and discuss my application in more detail between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday. I will follow up on my application a week from now if I don’t hear from you by then, but please feel free to contact me in the meantime at your convenience.

Why is this example correct? This robust cover letter conclusion not only expresses gratitude but also conveys the candidate’s enthusiasm about the role. It clearly spells out the best way and time to contact the applicant, and importantly, exhibits a clear call to action by stating their intention to follow-up. The concluding note is professional, reinforcing the seriousness of the candidate’s intent.

By ending your cover letter conclusively and well-rounded, you’ll reassure the reader about your interest in the role and encourage them to move your application forward.

8. Avoid common mistakes on a healthcare cover letter

It's crucial to ensure your cover letter is free of common mistakes. Just as in healthcare practice, a small error can have significant consequences .

Here are a few commonly committed mistakes and tips on how to avoid them:

1. Generic content  

• Mistake: "I am applying for the healthcare position at your health institution."
• Fix: Always be specific in mentioning the role you're applying for and the name of the organization. This can demonstrate your attention to detail and seriousness in the application process.

2. Focusing on what the job can do for you, not what you can do for the job

• Mistake: "I've always wanted to work in a hospital setting to develop my medical skills."
• Fix: Highlight what you can bring to the table. Align your skills, experiences, and goals with the requirements and objectives of the company.

3. Lacking detail in your qualifications

• Mistake: "I have healthcare experience."
• Fix: Expand on your qualifications. Mention the relevant roles you've had, the responsibilities you've met, and the impact of your work. 

4. Not checking for spelling and grammar errors

• Mistake: Not proofreading the cover letter.
• Fix: Just as meticulous charting is essential in healthcare, careful proofreading is a must for your cover letter. Use grammar and spell check tools, but also manually proofread your letter to catch errors these tools might miss. 

5. Not following instructions

• Mistake: Ignoring application instructions, such as not including requested information or failing to adhere to a specified format.
• Fix: Follow the application instructions to the letter. This shows your ability to follow procedures — a key skill in healthcare.

Just like following a treatment protocol leads to better patient outcomes, avoiding these common mistakes can improve your chances of landing that healthcare job . Always remember, your cover letter is as much a demonstration of your attention to detail as it is of showcasing your suitability for the role.

9. Healthcare resources

Navigating the healthcare job market can seem like an intricate procedure. Luckily, there are numerous resources available that can aid your job search and supplement the information provided in this guide. 

• Job search websites: Many job boards specialize in healthcare job listings. Websites such as Health eCareers or MedZilla can help discover opportunities from entry-level positions to highly specialized roles.
• Networking platforms: LinkedIn is a powerful platform to network, keep an eye on job openings, and engage with the greater healthcare community. Joining relevant LinkedIn Groups can provide valuable discussions, industry news, and job postings.
• Career websites: Sites like Kickresume or The Muse provide career advice, resume writing tips, job search strategies, and insights about different paths in the healthcare profession.
• Professional associations: Associations like the American Medical Association (AMA), the American Nurses Association (ANA), or the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association offer numerous resources ranging from networking events to job postings, professional development, certifications, and industry updates.
• Online learning platforms: Sites like Coursera or Khan Academy offer a wide variety of health-related courses. Whether you are looking to refresh your medical knowledge, gain a new certification, or simply wish to learn more about a particular healthcare topic, these platforms can be a huge asset.
• Healthcare consultants: For those seeking executive-level positions, using an executive search consultant familiar with the healthcare sector can make the job-hunting process smoother.

Remember, crafting an impressive healthcare cover letter is one step in your journey. Utilizing these resources can ensure that you're thoroughly prepared for each stage of the job hunting process, from initial search to final interview, enhancing your chances of landing your perfect role in healthcare.

10. Average salary and job outlook for healthcare professionals

According to the recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the landscape for healthcare professionals looks inarguably promising in terms of job growth and wages. 

The overall employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow at a much faster pace than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032. 

It's estimated that on average, there will be approximately 1.8 million job openings each year in these occupations.

When it comes to wages, healthcare professionals indeed enjoy competitive pay. As per the BLS data from May 2022, the median annual wage for healthcare practitioners and technical occupations was $77,760 . This figure stands significantly higher compared to the median annual wage for all occupations, which was $46,310 during the same period.

On the other hand, healthcare support occupations, which encompass roles like home health aides, personal care aides, medical transcriptionists, and occupational therapy assistants , reported a median annual wage of $33,600 in May 2022. Although this is lower than the median wage for all occupations, career prospects and growth opportunities within these roles provide a robust platform for both personal and professional development.

With the healthcare industry showing such dynamic growth and excellent salary potential, it's certainly a worthwhile sector for professional investment. Crafting an effective healthcare cover letter, as guided in this article, is the first step towards seizing these rewarding career opportunities.

Healthcare Cover Letter FAQ

What is the right length for a healthcare cover letter.

Beyond the specifics of the healthcare field, it's crucial to remember that the length of a cover letter should ideally be about one page. It should be brief yet comprehensive enough to highlight your skills, qualifications, and motivations. 

Should my healthcare cover letter use medical jargon?

In general, you should keep in mind the potential audience of your cover letter. It's likely that your cover letter will be initially screened by HR personnel who may not understand specific healthcare terminologies. Therefore, while some industry-specific language can showcase your understanding of the field, don't overload your cover letter with jargon. 

What are some good ways to personalize my healthcare cover letter?

Customizing your cover letter goes beyond just adding the recruiter's name and company details. Try researching about the healthcare organization’s culture, mission, and recent achievements, then express how you resonate with these aspects in your cover letter. 

Are soft skills important to highlight in a healthcare cover letter?

Absolutely. While expertise and technical skills are crucial in healthcare, soft skills such as empathy, communication, and problem-solving are equally important. Showcasing these traits can portray you as a well-rounded candidate and align with patient-centric healthcare environments.

Should I include my licenses and certifications in the cover letter?

While your resume will have detailed information about your licenses and certifications, in your healthcare cover letter, you can mention key ones that are particularly relevant to the job role you're applying for. Remember, your cover letter needs to complement your resume, not repeat it.

Julia Gergelova

Julia is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) and an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC™). She is also a passionate translator and graphic designer. Julia holds degrees in translation and interpretation and has international work experience in various countries across Europe, as well as in China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and contributed as a graphic designer to outlets such as The Business of Business. You'll often find her with a book in one hand and a specialty coffee in the other, always on the lookout for new insights.

Subcategories

• Medical Assistant
• Medical Doctor
• Mental Health Therapist
• Pharmacy Technician
• Physical Therapist

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Why does a medical cover letter keep importance even if you have all the essential information in your resume?

Well, your medical resume might have all the professional information, but a medical cover letter can showcase what kind of person you are and what qualities you possess.

According to research, the United States medical job market will encounter 2.6 million new job openings between 2020 to 2030 . Still, you can not expect easy competition on these job openings as the population is increasing rapidly.

A medical cover letter can make your job application better than your competitors and might also impress the recruiter during the screening round. Considering this, we are here with the answers to the following medical cover letter building queries:

• Why should you write a medical cover letter?
• How do you write a medical cover letter?
• What are the important sections of a medical cover letter?
• What should you do and avoid in a medical cover letter?

Why Should You Write a Medical Cover Letter?

A medical cover letter will help you showcase your achievements, qualities, or any other mind-blowing thing you have done in your career. Cover letters possess information absent in the resume as a backup during the recruitment process.

Like any other profession, you can add your achievements and specializations to your medical cover letter to impress the recruiter and enhance your shortlisting chances. We recommend writing a cover letter along with a resume while applying for a job to emphasize the effectiveness of their job application.

Also Read: How to build Physician Assistant Cover Letter in 2022?

How Should You Start Writing Your Medical Cover Letter?

You can initiate writing your medical cover letter by choosing a suitable format.

Your job application must be professional and impressive enough to stand apart from the crowd of other applicants. For that, you need to use a professional cover letter template and check the following details in your cover letter before submitting it:

• Your contact details and LinkedIn profile
• The hiring manager’s contact details
• Company name & address
• Personal greeting. For example, ‘Dear Mr. Dumbledoor’
• Introduction paragraph
• Skill-focused second paragraph
• Research-focused third paragraph
• Professional sign off

What are the Important Sections of a Medical Cover Letter?

Writing a medical cover letter can be tough for you without expert guidelines. You can refer to the online medical cover letter examples to craft your physician cover letter. But, you will not be able to create an effective one without practical steps.

Hence, we are elaborating on the guidelines for creating a highly impactful medical scribe cover letter in 2022:

Medical Cover Letter Header

The header of your medical cover letter must include:

• Your name & contact information
• Submission date
• The recruiter's name & designation
• The targeted company name & address

Here is the format that you can follow while creating the header of your sample medical cover letter:

Your Name Current Job Profile Email Address Phone Number LinkedIn Profile

Submission Date-

Recruiter’s Name Designation Organization name Address

Dear Mr./Ms. (Recruiter's Name),

Medical Cover Letter Introduction

The first paragraph of your medical cover letter works as an introduction. Hence, you must frame it professionally in an easy-to-read English language. Here you can showcase the position you are applying for, work experience, educational background, and any achievement related to the target job profile.

Medical Cover Letter Body

In the second paragraph, you can showcase your skills in line with the applied profile. Here you can mention your qualities and skills admired by your previous employers. You can also mention the highlighting achievements of your professional journey in this part of your medical receptionist cover letter.

Medical Cover Letter Final Paragraph

You can showcase the research you have done in the last paragraph. The research can be related to the profile, healthcare unit, or hospital you are applying to. We recommend you add some nice things for the hospital or clinic along with the value that you can add in the last paragraph. Give them a reason to consider you for the next round in this paragraph.

Medical Cover Letter Sign Off

Lastly, you can sign off professionally with a thanking note and a statement that you are looking for a positive response. Wrap up the medical cover letter with your full name.

Also Read: How to write a Lab Technician Cover Letter in 2022?

What Should You Practice & Avoid in a Medical Cover Letter

You must keep certain things in mind while creating your medical cover letter. Moreover, you will also need to avoid certain things for a personalized and professional tone in your medical cover letter.

Things you must practice:

• Address recruiters with their full name instead of 'To Whom it May Concern'
• Keep a positive tone and show your dedication towards the medical niche
• Attach letters of references if you have any strong connection already working in that hospital
• Wrap your letter up with a call to action by requesting the recruiter for a call or meeting in person

Things you must avoid:

• Don’t sound too desperate for the job, even it is an ideal position
• Try to sell your skills instead of manipulating the recruiter to hire you
• Avoid humor or sarcasm and be professional throughout your medical cover letter
• Do not mention any negative information regarding your previous work or colleagues

Pro Tips to Polish Your Medical Cover Letter

You can not write an impressive and professional medical cover letter without expert guidance in 2022. Your medical cl must be unique, easy-to-read, and address every requirement to shortlist you during the screening time.

Considering this, we are listing some points that will help you enhance the effectiveness of your medical cover letter:

• Read The Job Description

Read the job description before writing your medical cover letter. It will give you a clear vision on the job requirements. Then you can frame your cover letter accordingly addressing all the requirements.

• Do Not Repeat Your Details

You must ensure that the details you are writing in your medical cover letter is not present in the resume. Repetition of information might degrade the effectiveness of your application. Hence, we suggest you add unique skills, and capabilities in your medical cover letter.

• Quantify Your Achievements

You must quantify your achievements and capabilities in your medical cover letter. It will make your information unique even if you repeat some skills and capabilities.

• Add a CTA Statement at The End

We recommend adding a CTA statement at the end of your cover letter. You can state, 'I will be waiting for a positive response' or 'let us talk more in detail via email or in-person', or anything similar to take things forward.

Key Takeaways

Building a medical assistant cover letter can consume a lot of your time, even if you refer to an online physician cover letter example. However, you can minimize the time by following these practical medical cover letter building guidelines:

• Outline your cover letter in a professional medical cover letter format
• Greet recruiters by their name instead of random greeting format like Dear sir/ma’am
• Use easy-to-read English language in a positive tone while writing your cover letter for medical jobs
• Introduce yourself impressively with your education, experience, and accomplishments in the first paragraph
• Mention your skills, qualities, and something from your previous role relatable to the applied profile in the second paragraph
• Write whatever you liked about the hospital or clinic culture and the reason why the recruiter must hire you in the third paragraph
• Sign off nicely with a thanking note and your full name at the end of your medical assistant cover letter

You can use these guidelines to build a job-winning cover letter for medical jobs. However, if you want to save time and dodge the process of analyzing sample medical cover letter templates online, you can check out Hiration’s 360-degree Career Service Platform .

It is based on AI technology, and its 24/7 chat support is a great plus in your overall operational experience.

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Professional Medical Surgical Nurse Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your medical surgical nurse cover letter must highlight your clinical expertise and attention to detail. Prove your proficiency in managing pre- and post-operative care, including monitoring vital signs and administering medication. Demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively with a healthcare team in your cover letter. Show that your communication skills and dedication to patient education are at the core of your nursing practice.

Cover Letter Guide

Medical Surgical Nurse Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Medical Surgical Nurse Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

You're ready to apply for your dream medical surgical nurse position, and suddenly you hit a roadblock: the cover letter. Unlike your resume, this isn't just a list of qualifications—it's your chance to tell a compelling story about your proudest professional achievement. Striking the perfect balance between formal tone and originality, while avoiding clichés and keeping it to one page, can be daunting. In this guide, we'll navigate these challenges and craft a cover letter that stands out.

• Step your best foot forward in the medical surgical nurse cover letter introduction;
• Be inspired by other professionals' certified cover letters;
• Structure your medical surgical nurse cover letter to feature what matters most;
• Close off your medical surgical nurse cover letter to make a memorable impression on recruiters.

But where to start writing? Upload your resume into Enhancv's AI, which will prepare your medical surgical nurse cover letter (all you need to do is personalize it, and you'll be good to go).

If the medical surgical nurse isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Medical Surgical Nurse resume guide and example
• Clinical Director cover letter example
• Psychologist cover letter example
• Child Care Director cover letter example
• Agency Nurse cover letter example
• School Nurse cover letter example
• Dental Nurse cover letter example
• Orthodontic Dental Assistant cover letter example
• Practice Nurse cover letter example
• Phlebotomist cover letter example
• Nicu Nurse cover letter example

Medical Surgical Nurse cover letter example

Hazel Clark

Columbus, Ohio

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Demonstrating a track record of innovation in nursing practices can set a candidate apart, as seen with the mention of spearheading a medication administration process improvement.
• Emphasizing measurable achievements such as compliance rates or project outcomes offers concrete evidence of a candidate's capabilities in a nursing role.
• Expressing a willingness to collaborate and contribute to team goals aligns with the collaborative nature of nursing and signals a positive team-oriented mindset.
• Offering to discuss alignment with the organization's goals in an interview shows proactivity and engagement with the potential employer's mission and vision.

Structuring and formatting your medical surgical nurse cover letter

Here's what the structure of your medical surgical nurse cover letter should include:

• Header (with your name, the position you're applying for, and the date);
• Salutation (or greeting);
• Introductory paragraph (or your opening statement);
• Body paragraph (or further proof of your experience);
• Closing paragraph (with a call to action);
• Signature (that is optional).

Use the same font for your medical surgical nurse resume and cover letter - modern fonts like Lato and Rubik would help you stand out.

Your medical surgical nurse cover letter should be single-spaced and have a one-inch margins - this format is automatically set up in our cover letter templates and our cover letter builder .

When submitting your cover letter, always ensure it's in PDF, as this format keeps the information intact (and the quality of your document stays the same).

On one final note - the Applicant Tracker System (ATS or the software that is sometimes used to initially assess your application) won't read your medical surgical nurse cover letter.

The top sections on a medical surgical nurse cover letter

Header: This includes your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information. Including a professional header in your cover letter is key because it ensures the recruiter can easily identify you and provides a means for them to reach out for an interview.

Greeting: Address the hiring manager or recruitment team by name if possible. A personalized greeting is important in a cover letter as it shows that you have taken the time to research the hospital or medical facility and it sets a respectful, professional tone for your application.

Introduction: Briefly state your nursing credentials, your experience in medical-surgical settings, and why you are interested in this specific role. The introduction should grab the reader's attention and provide a snapshot of your qualifications unique to medical-surgical nursing to encourage further reading.

Body: Highlight specific experiences where you've effectively managed patient care, collaborated with interdisciplinary teams, and demonstrated proficiency in medical-surgical procedures or technology. This section is crucial for showcasing your hands-on experience and emphasizing your competence in areas critical to the medical-surgical nurse role.

Closing: Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position, include a statement about looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how you can contribute to their team, and thank the reader for considering your application. A confident and courteous closing reinforces your interest in the medical-surgical nurse position and leaves a professional impression.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Strong clinical skills with the ability to perform various surgical procedures and operate medical equipment, demonstrating technical proficiency relevant to surgical care.
• Excellent ability to prioritize and manage multiple patient care responsibilities simultaneously, reflecting the fast-paced nature of the medical-surgical environment.
• In-depth knowledge of infection control protocols and aseptic techniques, critical in preventing postoperative infections and ensuring patient safety.
• Compassionate patient care and superb bedside manner to comfort and communicate with patients before and after surgery, aiding in their recovery process.
• Effective collaboration with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care and contribute to successful surgical outcomes.
• Resilience and stress management skills to maintain composure and high-quality care in high-stress situations and during long shifts, which are common in surgical settings.

Greeting recruiters with your medical surgical nurse cover letter salutation

What better way to start your conversation with the hiring manager, than by greeting them?

Take the time to find out who the professional, recruiting for the role, is.

Search on LinkedIn, the company website. And for those still keen on making a fantastic first impression, you could even contact the organization, asking for the recruiter's name and more details about the job.

Address recruiters in the medical surgical nurse greeting by either their first name or last name. (e.g. "Dear Anthony" or "Dear Ms. Smarts").

If you're unable to discover the recruiter's name - don't go for the impersonal "To whom it may concern", but instead use "Dear HR team".

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear Director of Nursing,
• Dear [Hospital or Clinic Name] Recruitment Team,
• Dear [Specific Name],
• Dear Human Resources,
• Dear Members of the Selection Committee,

How to start your medical surgical nurse cover letter introduction

The opening paragraph of your medical surgical nurse cover letter can seem like a real enigma.

Where do you start writing ?

In your medical surgical nurse cover letter introduction, focus on yourself by stating what:

• gets you motivated and excited about the role;
• you like best about the company, from culture to awards.

Write no more than two sentences, which are both authentic and show your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Structuring your medical surgical nurse cover letter body to add more value

You've hinted at your value as a professional (this may be your passion for the job or interest in the company) in your introduction.

Next, it's time to pan out the body or middle of your medical surgical nurse cover letter .

When creating your resume, you've probably gone over the advert a million times to select the most relevant skills.

Well, it's time to repeat this activity. Or just copy and paste your previous list of job-crucial requirements.

Then, select one of your past accomplishments, which is relevant and would impress hiring managers.

Write between three and six paragraphs to focus on the value your professional achievement would bring to your potential, new organization.

Tell a story around your success that ultimately shows off your real value as a professional.

Final words: writing your medical surgical nurse cover letter closing paragraph

The final paragraph of your medical surgical nurse cover letter allows you that one final chance to make a great first impression .

Instead of going straight to the "sincerely yours" ending, you can back up your skills with a promise of:

• how you see yourself growing into the role;
• the unique skills you'd bring to the organization.

Whatever you choose, always be specific (and remember to uphold your promise, once you land the role).

If this option doesn't seem that appealing to you, close off your medical surgical nurse cover letter with a follow-up request.

You could even provide your availability for interviews so that the recruiters would be able to easily arrange your first meeting.

No experience medical surgical nurse cover letter: making the most out of your profile

Candidates who happen to have no professional experience use their medical surgical nurse cover letter to stand out.

Instead of focusing on a professional achievement, aim to quantify all the relevant, transferrable skills from your life experience.

Once again, the best practice to do so would be to select an accomplishment - from your whole career history.

Another option would be to plan out your career goals and objectives: how do you see yourself growing, as a professional, in the next five years, thanks to this opportunity?

Be precise and concise about your dreams, and align them with the company vision.

Key takeaways

Winning recruiters over shouldn't be difficult if you use your medical surgical nurse cover letter to tell a story that:

• Is personalized by greeting your readers and focusing on key job skills greets;
• Isn't spread all over the place, but instead focuses on one key achievement and selling your value as a professional;
• Introduces your enthusiasm for the role, passion for the job, or creativity in communication;
• Is also visually appealing - meeting the best HR practices;
• Ends with a nod to the future and how you envision your growth, as part of the company.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

How To Create A Cover Letter For An Internal Position

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How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job

I ’ve read thousands, maybe tens of thousands, of cover letters in my career. If you’re thinking that sounds like really boring reading, you’re right. What I can tell you from enduring that experience is that most cover letters are terrible — and not only that, but squandered opportunities. When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test.

So let’s talk about how to do cover letters right.

First, understand the point of a cover letter.

The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just your résumé. Managers generally aren’t hiring based solely on your work history; your experience is crucial, yes, but they’re also looking for someone who will be easy to work with, shows good judgment, communicates well, possesses strong critical thinking skills and a drive to get things done, complements their current team, and all the other things you yourself probably want from your co-workers. It’s tough to learn much about those things from job history alone, and that’s where your cover letter comes in.

Because of that …

Whatever you do, don’t just summarize your résumé.

The No. 1 mistake people make with cover letters is that they simply use them to summarize their résumé. This makes no sense — hiring managers don’t need a summary of your résumé! It’s on the very next page! They’re about to see it as soon as they scroll down. And if you think about it, your entire application is only a few pages (in most cases, a one- or two-page résumé and a one-page cover letter) — why would you squander one of those pages by repeating the content of the others? And yet, probably 95 percent of the cover letters I see don’t add anything new beyond the résumé itself (and that’s a conservative estimate).

Instead, your cover letter should go beyond your work history to talk about things that make you especially well-suited for the job. For example, if you’re applying for an assistant job that requires being highly organized and you neurotically track your household finances in a detailed, color-coded spreadsheet, most hiring managers would love to know that because it says something about the kind of attention to detail you’d bring to the job. That’s not something you could put on your résumé, but it can go in your cover letter.

Or maybe your last boss told you that you were the most accurate data processor she’d ever seen, or came to rely on you as her go-to person whenever a lightning-fast rewrite was needed. Maybe your co-workers called you “the client whisperer” because of your skill in calming upset clients. Maybe you’re regularly sought out by more senior staff to help problem-solve, or you find immense satisfaction in bringing order to chaos. Those sorts of details illustrate what you bring to the job in a different way than your résumé does, and they belong in your cover letter.

If you’re still stumped, pretend you’re writing an email to a friend about why you’d be great at the job. You probably wouldn’t do that by stiffly reciting your work history, right? You’d talk about what you’re good at and how you’d approach the work. That’s what you want here.

You don’t need a creative opening line.

If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you don’t. Just be simple and straightforward:

• “I’m writing to apply for your X position.”

• “I’d love to be considered for your X position.”

• “I’m interested in your X position because …”

• “I’m excited to apply for your X position.”

That’s it! Straightforward is fine — better, even, if the alternative is sounding like an aggressive salesperson.

Show, don’t tell.

A lot of cover letters assert that the person who wrote it would excel at the job or announce that the applicant is a skillful engineer or a great communicator or all sorts of other subjective superlatives. That’s wasted space — the hiring manager has no reason to believe it, and so many candidates claim those things about themselves that most managers ignore that sort of self-assessment entirely. So instead of simply declaring that you’re great at X (whatever X is), your letter should demonstrate that. And the way you do that is by describing accomplishments and experiences that illustrate it.

Here’s a concrete example taken from one extraordinarily effective cover-letter makeover that I saw. The candidate had originally written, “I offer exceptional attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and a talent for managing complex projects with a demonstrated ability to prioritize and multitask.” That’s pretty boring and not especially convincing, right? (This is also exactly how most people’s cover letters read.)

In her revised version, she wrote this instead:

“In addition to being flexible and responsive, I’m also a fanatic for details — particularly when it comes to presentation. One of my recent projects involved coordinating a 200-page grant proposal: I proofed and edited the narratives provided by the division head, formatted spreadsheets, and generally made sure that every line was letter-perfect and that the entire finished product conformed to the specific guidelines of the RFP. (The result? A five-year, $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying this same level of attention to detail to tasks as visible as prepping the materials for a top-level meeting and as mundane as making sure the copier never runs out of paper.”

That second version is so much more compelling and interesting — and makes me believe that she really is great with details.

If there’s anything unusual or confusing about your candidacy, address it in the letter.

Your cover letter is your chance to provide context for things that otherwise might seem confusing or less than ideal to a hiring manager. For example, if you’re overqualified for the position but are excited about it anyway, or if you’re a bit underqualified but have reason to think you could excel at the job, address that up front. Or if your background is in a different field but you’re actively working to move into this one, say so, talk about why, and explain how your experience will translate. Or if you’re applying for a job across the country from where you live because you’re hoping to relocate to be closer to your family, let them know that.

If you don’t provide that kind of context, it’s too easy for a hiring manager to decide you’re the wrong fit or applying to everything you see or don’t understand the job description and put you in the “no” pile. A cover letter gives you a chance to say, “No, wait — here’s why this could be a good match.”

Keep the tone warm and conversational.

While there are some industries that prize formal-sounding cover letters — like law — in most fields, yours will stand out if it’s warm and conversational. Aim for the tone you’d use if you were writing to a co-worker whom you liked a lot but didn’t know especially well. It’s okay to show some personality or even use humor; as long as you don’t go overboard, your letter will be stronger for it.

Don’t use a form letter.

You don’t need to write every cover letter completely from scratch, but if you’re not customizing it to each job, you’re doing it wrong. Form letters tend to read like form letters, and they waste the chance to speak to the specifics of what this employer is looking for and what it will take to thrive in this particular job.

If you’re applying for a lot of similar jobs, of course you’ll end up reusing language from one letter to the next. But you shouldn’t have a single cover letter that you wrote once and then use every time you apply; whatever you send should sound like you wrote it with the nuances of this one job in mind.

A good litmus test is this: Could you imagine other applicants for this job sending in the same letter? If so, that’s a sign that you haven’t made it individualized enough to you and are probably leaning too heavily on reciting your work history.

No, you don’t need to hunt down the hiring manager’s name.

If you read much job-search advice, at some point you’ll come across the idea that you need to do Woodward and Bernstein–level research to hunt down the hiring manager’s name in order to open your letter with “Dear Matilda Jones.” You don’t need to do this; no reasonable hiring manager will care. If the name is easily available, by all means, feel free to use it, but otherwise “Dear Hiring Manager” is absolutely fine. Take the hour you just freed up and do something more enjoyable with it.

Keep it under one page.

If your cover letters are longer than a page, you’re writing too much, and you risk annoying hiring managers who are likely sifting through hundreds of applications and don’t have time to read lengthy tomes. On the other hand, if you only write one paragraph, it’s unlikely that you’re making a compelling case for yourself as a candidate — not impossible, but unlikely. For most people, something close to a page is about right.

Don’t agonize over the small details.

What matters most about your cover letter is its content. You should of course ensure that it’s well-written and thoroughly proofread, but many job seekers agonize over elements of the letter that really don’t matter. I get tons of  questions from job seekers  about whether they should attach their cover letter or put it in the body of the email (answer: No one cares, but attaching it makes it easier to share and will preserve your formatting), or what to name the file (again, no one really cares as long as it’s reasonably professional, but when people are dealing with hundreds of files named “resume,” it’s courteous to name it with your full name).

Approaching your cover letter like this can make a huge difference in your job search. It can be the thing that moves your application from the “maybe” pile (or even the “no” pile) to the “yes” pile. Of course, writing cover letters like this will take more time than sending out the same templated letter summarizing your résumé — but 10 personalized, compelling cover letters are likely to get you more  interview invitations  than 50 generic ones will.

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