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

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

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

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

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

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

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

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

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

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

1. Personalization

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

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

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

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

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

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

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

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

Clear and concise writing

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

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

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

Achievements and accomplishments

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

Enthusiasm and motivation

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

Professionalism

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

How do you structure a cover letter?

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

Contact information

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

Employer's contact information

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

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

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

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

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

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

1. Add a header and contact information

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

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

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

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

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

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

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

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

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

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

3. Draw them in with an opening story

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

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

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

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

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

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

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

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

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

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

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

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

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

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

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

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

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

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

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

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

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

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

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

Should I include references in my cover letter?

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

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

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

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

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

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

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

Ace your job search

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

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

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

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

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Writing an Effective Cover Letter: The Ultimate Guide

Picture this. You’ve just found an excellent job opening that meets all of your requirements— competitive salary, great benefits, and the ability to work on exciting projects. This has been your dream, and you know you have the qualifications. But, after reading further, you are asked to submit a resume and a cover letter. 

Many people skip over the idea of writing a cover letter because they can be difficult to write, especially if you’re applying for your first job. This is a mistake! In fact, your cover letter is one of the most important parts of the hiring process and should be written to the best of your ability.

Find your bootcamp match

In this guide, we’re going to explore how you can write an effective cover letter which you can use to apply for any position in tech.

Why Are Cover Letters Important?

Your cover letter is one of the first impressions you will make on a company. Even if you already have a recommendation from a current employee, there will be people in the company who will read your resume and cover letter before you proceed to the next stage of the hiring process. And to those people, these documents will be their first impression. You know what people say, “first impressions stick.”

When you reach out to a company, you want to tell them a story about yourself and how you’re going to help them meet their goals. Your resume will outline your skills and past experience, sure, but your cover letter will back up what you’ve said in your resume and give you the opportunity to explore your interest in a certain position with more depth. 

Most importantly, your cover letter, which can take many formats, can be highly personalized for each company. This is a chance for you to tell them your story. 

What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?

The cover letter is still an expected attachment to a resume and serves as the first impression a candidate will make on a potential employer. Your cover letter gives you the opportunity to talk about why you’re interested in the position and how you would uniquely contribute to the organization. Everyone may use the same format for their resume—listing their skills, qualifications, and more—but in the cover letter, you can get more creative. You can talk about why you’re excited about the company and craft a convincing pitch that will make them want to talk with you again.

Over the last few years, there has been a perception that cover letters are no longer relevant. If you have a Twitter profile and a presence on LinkedIn or AngelList, why should you have a cover letter? Well, the truth is that employers still value a cover letter. If you don’t include a cover letter, a potential employer may pass on you before they get the chance to read about your skills in greater depth.

Your cover letter tells employers that you’re applying for a certain position. You may be able to get away with using the same resume for multiple jobs, but the cover letter should be unique to each position and company. You want to convince the company why you are the best person for their team. And you want to tell them why you want to work with their company more than any other. The more detailed you are, the better the impression you can leave on hiring managers and recruiters.

How to Format a Cover Letter

Before we get started on the contents of a cover letter, it’s important to understand how you should format the document. Here are a few tips on how to format your cover letter:

• Use single line spacing for all text
• Use double-space between each section
• Include a one-inch margin on all sides
• Align everything to the left side
• Choose an easy-to-read font

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

Your cover letter—like a resume—should only be a single page long. The best cover letters are short, concise, and ideally under 300 words . You’ll only have the attention of a recruiter for a minute or two at best, and you want to impress them as soon as possible.

What to Say in a Cover Letter

Your cover letter should be all about the position you’re applying to and the company itself . Before you get started writing a cover letter, you should make sure you are aware of the needs of the company and their expectations for a candidate in the position. 

By doing some research in advance, you’ll find it easier to adapt your cover letter to the specific position you’re applying to. Recruiters will always value a personalized cover letter over one which includes generic text about why a candidate is “good.”

When doing research for your cover letter, consider the following questions:

• Why is the company hiring someone new?

Does the company have an always-open application so they can hire the best talent? Do they need more people to help them scale? When it comes time to writing your cover letter, make sure you keep these things in mind. If the company is scaling quickly, you may want to talk about how you have experience in fast-paced work environments, for example.

• What skills do they expect a new candidate to have?

What are they looking for in a new candidate? Do they need someone with skills in a particular technology? Do they need someone ambitious who can help them bring their ideas into reality? Answers to these questions are difficult to ascertain before actually talking with someone in the company, but you can’t write a cover letter without knowing what they expect.

Spend some time reading through the job description and take notes on what skills they expect applicants to have. Also, read over any materials on the company’s website such as their “about” page and their vision statement so you can learn more about their expectations and long-term goals. Doing this research will show companies you know what they’re all about, thereby indicating you’re passionate about a particular position.

How to Write a Cover Letter

Cover letters can be difficult to write because you need to write a new one for each position you’re applying to. However, there are a few tips you should keep in mind which will help optimize your cover letter writing process.

Expand on Your Resume

In your cover letter, you should go beyond your resume. It can be tempting to simply reiterate what you have said in your resume in more depth. But you shouldn’t repeat yourself in your cover letter. Instead, you should use your cover letter as an opportunity to discuss your experience in more depth . Write a sentence or two about how a past position helped you refine a specific skill that the employer is looking for. Customize the letter to show you have the requisite skills for the position. If you’re not sure where to start, you may want to ask yourself these questions:

• How did you tackle one of the responsibilities you had in a past position?
• How did you accomplish a specific milestone you mentioned on your resume?

Main Components of a Successful Cover Letter

Now, let’s get to the cover letter itself. There are three main parts in a cover letter:

• The Introduction

Let’s break these down and explore each component in more depth.

• Cover Letter Introduction

The first few sentences in your cover letter are key. If you include some generic and bold assertions about your skills, the recruiter may get bored and move on to the next candidate. But if you make your introduction impressive, they will want to read on further.

Your introduction should start with “Dear, [hiring manager name].” Make sure you include the name of the hiring manager or recruiter who is hiring for the position. If the company has a relaxed office culture, you only need to use their first name; if the employer is more traditional, use their first and last name.

The first paragraph should tell the company why you want to work with them . There are two things you could say in this paragraph—you believe in the company’s mission, and you want to work on the problems they are solving or, you want to work with their team. You should mention one of these facts and give a specific reason why. You’re interested in helping the company solve problems? Now you need to tell them why. 

Giving a specific reason shows the company you’ve tailored your cover letter to them and done some research about their company. Saying that you have applied because a friend told you about the company or because you saw a job opening sounds like you haven’t thought about the company in any depth—you just applied. When a company feels you are passionate about their vision or their team, they are more likely to reach out to you. They are always going to hire the person who wants to work for the company more than the person who would accept any job. Even subtle personal touches will go a long way in a cover letter.

• Cover Letter Body

You’ve written a great introduction, and you now have the attention of the recruiter. What’s next? You have to tell them your story. The main body will be what a recruiter uses to help them decide whether to schedule an interview or file your application away.

The main body should be around three sentences —even if you are applying for junior or senior positions in tech. The goal of telling this story is to convince the company you meet all of their specifications. Tell the company about your knowledge of the technologies they are using or your past experience with a certain process they mentioned in the job listing. Whatever it is, make sure you tell them how you can help solve their problems better than everyone else . And always provide specific examples .

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

Let’s say the company is looking for a front end web developer who can help them speed up their app. You could say, “In my one-year tenure as an intern at Google, I used React.js to improve the speed of an internal landing page by 50ms.” 

Specific, concise, and easy to understand.

In this section, you should be sure to make links between your qualifications and the specific requirements for a position . Mention how your skills meet the requirements of a company. You should also be sure to keep your paragraphs short. If you are writing three sentences, you may split those up into two paragraphs. This will make it easier for the recruiter to read your cover letter and understand the most important information. The more personalized your cover letter is, the more an employer will feel that you’re passionate about the company and its vision.

If you’re struggling to figure out how to talk about your past experience, there are a few questions you should keep in mind. These questions will ensure you know how to articulate your past experience and present it as effectively as possible to a future employer. Ask yourself:

• What projects did I work on?
• How many users did my project have?
• What big milestones did I achieve?
• What use cases did I have to take into account?
• What tools (i.e. GitHub, Confluence, CircleCI) and methodologies (i.e. Agile) did I use to work on this project?

You should end up with something like, “I was a core team member building X and leveraged tools such as CircleCI to create a new continuous integration process, which helped cut down our deployment time by 30%.” 

• Cover Letter Close

The hiring manager is reading your cover letter. They are getting more interested in reaching out to you for an interview. Now, you need to close your cover letter effectively.

The first thing you should mention in your closing lines is a call to action: a specific statement that tells employers how they can reach out to you . You may decide to say, “If you are interested in talking with me further about how I can help Microsoft boost the efficiency of their Azure platform, reach out to me at [email address].” Again, this is specific, concise, and actionable.

Then you want to close with “sincerely” or “kind regards” and sign the letter with your full name . Optionally, you can include a phone number or another contact information below your name. After you’ve done that, your cover letter will be complete. You do not need to make your close complicated—it should be simple and tell hiring managers how to reach out to you in only a few words.

Example of a Cover Letter

Here is an example of a cover letter that uses the above format. The letter states why a candidate wants to work for the company and gives them a specific example of how this candidate can help them achieve their goals. The letter is simple, concise, and actionable.

30 October 2019

Stephanie M. Anager

Hiring Manager

Career Karma

San Francisco, CA 94107

Dear James,

I used Career Karma to help choose a coding bootcamp when I was learning to code, and I recently learned about your new bootcamp directory. It got me thinking that I want to help others find the right educational opportunities for them, just like you did for me. I would like to apply for the position of junior full stack engineer at your company.

At my previous job, I started off as a junior web developer and I learned how to build efficient web applications using JavaScript and the React.js framework. I spent time working with the development team analyzing inefficiencies in our application, and made numerous changes to make our pages render quicker. If I were to join your team, I would be able to help you make your website more efficient, and help you scale the site as you gain more traffic.

If you would like to talk with me further about how I can help you improve your web application, reach out to me at [email protected].

Kind regards,

Candidate N. Ame

What Not to Include in a Cover Letter

The purpose of a cover letter is to tell your story to a prospective employer. You can tell them about yourself, your history, your knowledge, and more. Your cover letter gives you an opportunity to show an employer why you are a good candidate for a position and why they should hire you.

But many people feel compelled to include more information than they need to. Your cover letter should be short, to-the-point, and focused on how you can help a company achieve its goals. You don’t need to include every detail about your employment history. Keeping your cover letters short will make it easy if you apply for multiple positions and need to write many different letters.

Your cover letter should be formatted correctly and should be free of any spelling or grammar errors , as it will also implicitly showcase your writing and communication skills. If your cover letter includes obvious grammatical errors, an employer may question how much attention you pay to detail—a critical component of most jobs in tech.

Here are a few things you should avoid doing in a cover letter:

• Making assertions which are not true. Employers will check the facts of a cover letter if they proceed with the interview process. Make sure your cover letter is truthful and accurately represents your skills. There are many people who have exaggerated their skills in a cover letter but were unable to meet the requirements when it came time for the interview.
• Information not related to the job. Don’t include anything which is not directly related to the position for which you are applying. You only have a few hundred words to use when writing your cover letter—use them all effectively.
• What you want. Don’t mention what you want to get out of the company. You should be pitching how you can help the company, not how they can help you.
• Expressing too much interest in the job. Companies want to know you are interested in them. But talking too much about how you like the company may cause you to lose leverage when it comes time to negotiate a salary. You are pitching yourself and your abilities, not how much you like a company. Tell the company why you’re applying, but don’t go into too much depth about how you like X, Y, and Z about them.
• Discussing the skills you don’t have. If a company posts a position looking for writing experience, don’t say something like, “Although I have a short track record of writing experience… [insert other unrelated claims]…” Keep your cover letter focused on what you can do. You are not expected to meet every requirement listed in a job description.

Tips for Writing a Great Cover Letter

Here are a few tips on how you can write a wonderful cover letter:

1. Personalize, Personalize, Personalize.

The main thing you should remember about this guide is that your cover letter should be personalized. It should be tailored to one specific company and one position . It’s easy to tell if a cover letter has been reused multiple times—they include generic statements, and the author doesn’t talk about why they want to work for a specific company. 

If you want to save time, you should consider making a template cover letter. You can then make a few changes for each company before you send the cover letter out. For example, you can keep your close and some of your main body the same; the main thing you would change is why you want to work for each company. This saves time while still allowing you to maintain a professional tone.

2. Include Some Statistics

Hiring managers like to see stats. Numbers show that you’ve had a quantifiable impact on an organization you’ve worked for in the past. For example, if you’re a front end developer, you could talk about how you improved the render speed of pages. Similarly, if you’re a DevOps developer, you could talk about how many servers you maintained in a cluster. Statistics are not necessary, but they do help illustrate how much of an impact you have made in the past.

3. Show Personality

Your cover letter should be yours . The resume you wrote will include lists of facts about you and your history. But your cover letter should be more free-flowing and showcase your human side to hiring managers.

Spend time researching the company’s culture, and try to adopt a similar tone in your cover letter. And, before you send it, read your cover letter aloud and remove anything which doesn’t sound like how you would speak.

4. Keep It Short and Simple

Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule. But your cover letter should be as short as possible . In one survey, more than two-thirds of employers said they prefer a cover letter that is half a page or, “the shorter the better”. The more wordy your writing is, the more difficult it will be for the hiring manager to take away the key points.

5. Review and Edit

As we mentioned earlier, you should run a spell check of your cover letter before you submit it. But don’t mistake a spell check for editing . Spend some time after you’ve written your cover letter to read it over and evaluate whether any changes need to be made. After a few reviews, you’ll most likely notice a few things you want to change or improve.

You can also reach out to a friend or family member and ask them to review your cover letter and make any suggestions for how you can improve the letter. Consider asking them, “Does this letter accurately showcase my skills?” and “Does this letter get you excited about me?” to make sure you have covered all your bases.

If you need some additional assistance, you can use tools such as Hemingway to help improve the tone of your work. Hemingway will highlight sentences that are too wordy and difficult to read, use passive voice, or use complex vocabulary when a simpler term would suffice.

6. Highlight Your Technical Skills

If you’re applying for a software development position, you should make sure you highlight your technical skills explicitly. Prospective employers will look at a cover letter for only a few seconds, or they may even have it parsed through an Automated Tracking System. Thus, you should spend time talking about the specific technical skills you’ve acquired so a recruiter can easily find out whether you have the skills you need to be a good fit for the job.

Mention any specific technologies you know and one major goal you met using that technology. For example, you could say, “At my previous job, I used Ruby on Rails and GraphQL to move from a REST-based architecture to GraphQL, which we found to be more efficient based on our business needs.” 

In this example, the candidate has spoken about how they know Ruby on Rails (a programming language), GraphQL (a data architecture tool), and how they have a good knowledge of REST (an API structure). If an employer is hiring someone who has these skills, this statement will really make the candidate stand out ahead of everyone else. 

7. Use Action Words

When you’re writing a cover letter, you should avoid using “buzzwords” or talking about specific skills that are not fully relevant to the job. Instead, you should use action words that showcase your involvement with particular projects. If you are a software developer, you may feel tempted to use words like “coded” or “developed” a few times in your cover letter because you have created a lot of applications. But you should try to introduce some variety into your cover letter.

Here are a few examples of action words you can use in your cover letter:

• “I was a key collaborator on a tight-knit team…”
• “Helped our team meet the project goal…”
• “Created a new system to…”
• “I managed a team of…”
• “I helped create a new process…”

You should also try to include results-oriented words in your cover letter. These words help show that you have experience in yielding good outputs from your work and will show the extent of your responsibilities in your past experience.

A few words you may want to consider using include: redesigned, updated, implemented, produced, increased, streamlined, reduced .

Hopefully you now understand that writing a good cover letter is not too difficult and that cover letters are a great way for you to showcase your skills to employers. If you follow these guidelines on how to write a cover letter, you’ll be more likely to land a technical interview for your dream job.

In brief, here are our main rules on how to write a good cover letter:

• Research the company, their culture, and read the job description thoroughly
• Introduce yourself by talking about why you want to work for the company
• Show the company how your past experience will help you be an effective contributor
• End with a call to action and a professional close
• Review your cover letter to make sure you do not include anything unnecessary
• Do a final review of your cover letter and send it to some friends to get feedback

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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How to Start a Cover Letter That Grabs Attention

11 min read · Updated on August 03, 2021

Get your cover letter off to a strong start by addressing it appropriately, greeting your reader, and writing a memorable opening sentence.

In this age of digital job postings and applicant tracking systems, many believe that a cover letter is no longer expected or necessary--but thinking this can put your job application at risk. It's imperative to know how to write a cover letter , and how to do it well.

While there are many mixed messages out there about cover letters, one that's well-written can still put you ahead of other job candidates and sometimes be the deciding factor that gets you hired in that it gives the hiring person a good first impression of you. 

In fact, unless the job posting specifically states that no cover letter is required (in which case the posting instructions take precedence), you should always plan to include a cover letter with your application.

What is a well-written cover letter ? One that grabs attention right from the start with the correct company name and address, the proper greeting, and a memorable opening sentence.  

Addressing a cover letter (including an email)

Always place the company's name and address just before the greeting. If at all possible, find and include the name of the recruiter or hiring manager. (More on this coming up.) 

Use the same heading, font type, and font size as your resume to create a feeling of organization and flow. 

As for your name and contact information, there are several acceptable options. Remember that your name is the thing that immediately grabs attention, so make sure it's there along with the contact details. 

Add only your name, phone number, and email address just above the company information as shown below. This gives a recruiter two ways to contact you at a glance. Leave a space between the end of your information and the start of the section with the company's details. 

Here is an example of the layout:

[Your Name]

[Contact Phone Number]

[Email Address]

[Name of Recruiter/Hiring Manager]

[Street Address]

[City, State ZIP]

Dear [Name],

Or you can choose to add more information if you like.

Use your name, full address, phone number, and email address in this same space at the top.

[Your Street Address]

[Your Contact Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

Use either Option 1 or 2 under your signature line at the bottom of the cover letter.

When I was a recruiter, I liked having all the candidate's information all  in the same place rather than broken up between the top and bottom of the cover letter, so I suggest choosing one or the other. It just makes life easier for the person (or system) reviewing your cover letter. 

This information would generally be on a separate cover letter attached to an email. In this case, keep your email brief, and simply use a closing (Sincerely) with your first and last name at the end of the email.

However, if the email is actually the cover letter then choose one of the options above and use it in the actual email.

The correct cover letter greeting

Believe it or not, this can be what ends your job prospects with that particular organization. People take pride in their names and in their gender status. Depending on the hiring person, they could feel insulted if you get it wrong, especially because you might have found this information with a little research or didn't opt for something gender neutral.

Use the hiring manager's name

You can find the hiring person's name in any number of places. Here's an excerpt from another TopResume cover letter article with more detailed information.

If you're not given the name of the hiring manager, here are some effective ways to discover their name by using:

The job description: Check this document for the hiring manager's name. While it's not generally listed, you never know. If it's not obvious, there's also a trick to quickly discover an email in the job description that might contain the name; while in the document, press Ctrl +F or run Command + F and search for the @ symbol.

An email address: If you discover an email address, it may not have a full name but rather a first initial and last name or just a first name like [email protected] or [email protected]. A Google search combining the person's name as shown in the email and the company name might find you the person's full name.

 A LinkedIn post: A name connected to the LinkedIn job posting is probably that of the hiring professional who posted it, so use that name in your greeting.

The supervisor's title: It's more likely that a job description will list who the new hire will report to — such as the director of accounting — without listing a name. In this case, there are several search options:

Search the company's website for listings of staff members by title.

Run an advanced LinkedIn or Google search for all directors of accounting at that specific company.

Check with your network for someone who might know the person's name or search the appropriate professional networking sites.

Contact the company by phone or email. Tell them you're applying for [job title] and want to address your cover letter to the right person.

Use job titles/department names if necessary

When asked about how to address a cover letter effectively , one of our TopResume Writers states, “ As a general rule, I always stay away from anything approaching 'To Whom it May Concern' (this may be obvious).”

Next, unless you are absolutely sure of the person's gender or gender preference, don't use “Mr.” or “Ms.” in your greeting. I also advise against using “Mrs.” at any time, since you generally can't discern a woman's marital status. 

You can also use the person's job title if you have it along with their last name: 

Hello Director Smith

Greetings Vice President Jones

Hi Accounting Manager Johnson

If you only have the person's job title or their general department from the job description, consider these options:

Dear Head of Design

Hello IT Department

To Company ABC Recruiter/Hiring Professional

Hello Marketing Hiring Team

Greetings Customer Support Hiring Group

Professional titles such as “Professor” or “Dr.” are definitely acceptable as a cover letter salutation and should be used with last names as a sign of respect. Be on the lookout for these and other titles to include.

If after all this you still don't have a name, job title, or department name, simply use Dear Hiring Manager.

Stay Professional

There's another less-common scenario worth mentioning: You already know and are on a first-name basis with the hiring manager. In this situation, I recommend staying with a formal greeting using the person's last name. 

You never know who else is going to see your cover letter, and accusations of potential favoritism (even if false) will hurt both you and the hiring manager. Always be professional in the hiring process.

Never Leave It Blank

All these greeting options may seem awkward, but they are much better than using the wrong name or gender in your greeting, or worse: adding no greeting at all. 

There's no reason to leave the greeting blank when there are so many options that can be used effectively in how you write your cover letter. Including a greeting, even a general one, will impress any hiring professional and greatly improve your chances of moving along in the hiring process.

Punctuate properly

In truth, it doesn't really matter what punctuation you use in your cover letter greeting. Generally a comma or a colon are equally acceptable after the person's name. However, don't include a comma between the words of greeting ( Dear/Hello/Greetings ) and the person's name and/or title.

This is correct for both a separate cover letter and an email as a cover letter.

Check (and check again) before you hit “send”

As a job applicant, it's generally fine to re-use the same cover letter for similar or even non-similar positions. However, you must make it a habit to review each cover letter thoroughly before you submit it.

Double and triple check that you've used the correct hiring manager name/company in both the address area and the greeting. The minute a recruiter/hiring manager sees a different name and company than their own, the cover letter--along with your resume and hopes for that job--will be thrown in the trash.

Next, be sure the position title matches the company. You might get by with this mistake, but a good recruiter will catch it and potentially toss your application.

Finally, review the body of the letter to know that you've included the right set of experience and skills for that job. The section below offers more details on this.

Crafting a great opening sentence

Your cover letter opening sentence should make it obvious to the reader that you're applying for that company's specific position. 

This means you should include the job title in your first line. “Always include the position you are applying for,” says TopResume writer Brandon C. “Customize this sentence to make the rest of the cover letter feel custom as well - even if there is nothing else that you change as you use it for different applications.” 

If the positions you're after are very similar, there's really no need to change other parts of the letter except the hiring manager name and position title--but it's always in your best interests to make sure.

When cover letter changes matter

Start by reviewing all your job descriptions against each other, looking closely and the skill requirements. If it appears that each job is looking for pretty much the same skills and experience, you can use the one cover letter for each of those applications (remembering to change the specifics mentioned above).

However, if you spot any major difference in what's required for each role you will want to change each cover letter to point out that you possess those specific skills and qualifications. If a company wants product development experience and you don't show them that or show completely unrelated skills from a generic cover letter, you likely won't get the job.

Also, check the education requirements for each role, and adjust that accordingly on your cover letter.

Once you have a basic cover letter, it only takes a few minutes to review and change any parts that show you to be a well-qualified candidate for the job.

Good opening sentence examples 

Here are some additional examples of strong cover letter opening sentences from TopResume writers.

I like to begin by introducing the customer as who they are as a professional, including their line of work and a few adjectives. For example: "As an executive product development professional with a passion for transforming new concepts into finalized, breakthrough products and solutions, I am an ideal candidate for your (Job Title) opening."

If someone is a recent grad or new to the workforce, I tend to highlight their recent degree, a few transferable skills, and/or their passion for whatever industry they're trying to tap into.

Niki Beaulieu, Senior Resume Writer

I would always recommend something along the lines of, "As a dedicated and established leader in (career field) with a passion for driving (specialty) operations, I eagerly submit the attached resume in hopes of joining your organization as a valuable member of your (specified field) team."

This is of course just one example, and this particular opening could be broken up in a multitude of ways as well.

Brandon C., TopResume Writer

There are a variety of ways to create your opening sentence, but as the above examples show you should include whatever specifics make sense and will get you noticed, including:

Your current or desired career field

Specific skills applicable to the job

Related work experience

Related education

On-going career goals

And it bears repeating: Always include the correct position title, company name, and greeting.

One final note: Since this article focuses on starting a cover letter, you might want to check out some good sources on how to effectively complete the cover letter , including additional paragraphs and the best way to close your letter. You might also want to review another great article on how to avoid cover letter mistakes .

To sum up, hiring managers do read cover letters , so always plan to include one with your application. It will help you stand out from the crowd and improve your chances of getting hired.

Is your cover letter is cutting it?  Our resume writers don't just help you with your resume . 

Recommended Reading:

What You Should Include in a Cover Letter For a Job  

Ask Amanda: How Do I Write a Great Cover Letter?

• How to Address a Cover Letter to Recruiter or Hiring Manager

Related Articles:

7 Best Problem-Solving Skills for Your Resume + Examples

7 best time management skills on a resume (with examples)

Highlighting Writing Skills on Your Resume

See how your resume stacks up.

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

• Elainy Mata

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

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

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60 Examples of Strong Closing Statements: How to Close a Cover Letter

By Status.net Editorial Team on December 12, 2023 — 16 minutes to read

A strong cover letter closing is essential in making a great impression and reinforcing your enthusiasm for the job opportunity. It provides a final opportunity to emphasize your relevant skills, experiences, and personal attributes that make you an ideal candidate. A compelling closing also encourages the employer to take action, such as inviting you for an interview. Consider these examples:

• Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute my skills and experiences in this exciting role.
• I am eager to discuss how my background aligns with your team’s goals and how I can contribute to your company’s growth.
• I am confident that my expertise in social media marketing makes me well-suited for this position, and I appreciate your time and consideration.

Positive Impact on Employers

Your cover letter closing is crucial, as it leaves a lasting impression on the employer and influences their perception of you as a candidate. A positive and engaging closing helps you stand out among other applicants and increases your chances of being selected for an interview. Here are a few key points that can create a positive impact:

• Express gratitude : Show appreciation for the time the employer has spent reading your cover letter, and thank them for considering your application.
• Be enthusiastic : Reiterate your excitement about the job opportunity and the prospect of joining their team.
• Include a call to action : Encourage further engagement, like scheduling an interview or discussing your qualifications in more detail.

For example:

Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I am highly enthusiastic about joining your team and discussing my potential contributions to your ongoing projects. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at your earliest convenience.

Crafting Your Final Paragraph

Summarizing your enthusiasm.

To leave a lasting impression, summarize your enthusiasm for the role in your closing paragraph. Highlight your excitement about the opportunity and express gratitude for the potential connection with the company. For instance:

I’m thrilled about the prospect of joining the (…) team and contributing my marketing skills to drive innovative campaigns. Thank you for considering my application.

Reaffirming Your Best Fit for the Role

Before signing off, reinforce why you’re the perfect candidate for the position. Briefly recap your relevant experience, skills, or accomplishments that set you apart. Be concise yet confident in your message. For example:

With my five years of experience in international sales and my proven ability to develop long-term client relationships, I am confident in my ability to excel as your next Sales Manager.

Choosing the Right Sign-Off

Professional sign-off options.

Selecting the appropriate closing for your cover letter can leave a lasting impression. Here are some professional sign-off options to consider:

• Sincerely : This classic sign-off is appropriate for most scenarios and conveys professionalism.
• Best regards : A versatile and slightly more casual option, ideal for a variety of industries.
• Kind regards : This friendly sign-off is suitable when you have developed a rapport with the receiver, like the hiring manager.

You can also try other options such as Yours truly , Respectfully , or Yours faithfully , depending on your preference and the nature of the job you are applying for.

Matching the Company Culture

Try to tailor your sign-off to match the company culture. Researching the company’s website, social media, or reviewing employee testimonials can help you get a better understanding of the company culture. For example:

• Innovative or creative industries : Feel free to express yourself with a casual yet professional closing, like Warm Regards or Cheers .
• Traditional or formal industries : Stick to more formal options such as Sincerely or Best Regards .

Incorporating a Call to Action

Proposing the next steps.

A well-crafted cover letter should inspire the reader to take the next step. This could include scheduling an interview, discussing your application further, or even simply reviewing your attached resume. To encourage this action, incorporate a call to action (CTA) at the end of your cover letter that guides the hiring manager.

Some examples of CTAs in the context of cover letters include:

• Schedule a meeting : “I’m excited about the opportunity to discuss my experiences and how they align with the [job title] position. Let’s set up a time to chat!”
• Ask for a callback : “I’d be thrilled to further discuss my application and the value I bring to the table. Give me a call at your earliest convenience to chat more.”
• Direct them to your portfolio : “I’d love to showcase my recent work, which you can find at [website link]. Let’s discuss how my skillset aligns with the [job title] role.”

Remember to tailor these examples to your specific application and the company to which you’re applying.

60 Examples of Strong Closing Statements For a Cover Letter

• 1. This position seems like a perfect match for my experience, passions, and career aspirations. I would love to bring my skills and expertise to your organization.
• 2. I am confident that I can make an immediate and positive impact if given the opportunity to join your team. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your organization’s success.
• 3. My background and capabilities align well with the responsibilities of this role. I am excited by the prospect of applying my experience to this position.
• 4. I am enthusiastic about the chance to join your organization. Please contact me to further discuss my qualifications and how I can add value.
• 5. I would welcome the opportunity to showcase my abilities and help drive growth and innovation through this position. I am eager to learn more.
• 6. With my skills and experience, I am prepared to excel in this role and hit the ground running. I look forward to speaking with you.
• 7. I am confident I would thrive in this position. I am eager to bring my skills, passion, and drive to your dynamic team.
• 8. I believe I am an excellent fit for this opportunity and am excited by the prospect of contributing my talents to your organization. I welcome the chance to speak with you further.
• 9. My experience aligns well with the responsibilities of this exciting role. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to apply my skills to benefit your organization.
• 10. I am excited by the chance to join your team. I look forward to further discussion.
• 11. I am confident that I possess the necessary qualifications for this role and would excel if given the opportunity.
• 12. With my background and passion, I am prepared to hit the ground running and make an immediate impact through this position. I would love to join your team.
• 13. I am eager to apply my expertise to help drive success and innovation for your organization. Please contact me to arrange a time to talk.
• 14. My experience has fully prepared me to excel in this role. I am excited by the prospect of bringing my skills to your dynamic organization.
• 15. I am enthusiastic about this opportunity and the chance to contribute to your company’s continued growth and innovation. I look forward to elaborating on my qualifications.
• 16. I am confident I can perform exceptionally well in this position. I am excited by the prospect of joining your team and organization.
• 17. With my proven track record, I am prepared to dive in and deliver results through this role. I would be thrilled to join your organization.
• 18. I am eager to join an organization where I can utilize my expertise to create meaningful impact. This role seems like an excellent fit.
• 19. I am excited by the prospect of joining your innovative company. My skills would enable me to contribute to your team’s success right away.
• 20. I am confident my background makes me a competitive applicant for this opportunity. I am excited to further discuss my qualifications with you.
• 21. With my experience and passion, I know I would thrive in this position. I hope to have the chance to join your talented team.
• 22. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of bringing my skills and experience to your dynamic organization.
• 23. I am eager to apply my expertise to help drive innovation and success in this role. I would be thrilled to join your team.
• 24. I am confident my abilities make me a strong candidate for this opportunity. I am excited by the chance to contribute to your company’s growth.
• 25. I believe I possess the necessary skills, experience, and drive to excel in this position.
• 26. With my background, I am prepared to dive in, roll up my sleeves, and immediately begin adding value in this role. I am excited by this opportunity.
• 27. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your team. I am confident my experience would allow me to thrive in this position.
• 28. I would welcome the opportunity to join your organization and collaborate with your talented team in this role. Please contact me to further discuss my qualifications.
• 29. I am excited by the chance to apply my skills and experience to help drive innovation and success for your company. I hope to speak with you soon.
• 30. I am eager to bring passion, expertise, and a strong work ethic to this position. I am confident I would excel on your team. I look forward to further discussing how I can contribute to your organization’s success.
• 31. I am confident that I have the necessary qualifications to excel in this role, and I am excited by the prospect of contributing my skills to your organization. I look forward to discussing this opportunity further.
• 32. With my experience and capabilities, I know I would be a great asset to your team through this position. I am eager to bring my passion and expertise to your dynamic organization.
• 33. I am enthusiastic about the chance to apply my background in a way that drives meaningful impact and innovation. This role seems like an ideal fit for my skills.
• 34. I am eager to join your organization and collaborate with your talented team to deliver exceptional results.
• 35. I am prepared to hit the ground running and make immediate contributions in this role. My experience aligns well with the responsibilities, and I am excited by the prospect of joining your company.
• 36. I am confident that I possess the ideal qualifications for this opportunity. I would love to join your organization and contribute my skills to help drive future success.
• 37. With my proven track record and expertise, I am prepared to dive in and immediately begin adding value through this position. I am excited by this opportunity and welcome further discussion.
• 38. My background and capabilities make me confident that I can perform exceptionally well in this role.
• 39. I am eager to apply my skills in a high-impact position with a respected organization like yours. I am confident I would thrive on your team. Please contact me to arrange a meeting.
• 40. I believe this role is an excellent match for my qualifications. I am excited by the opportunity to contribute my experience and talents to your innovative company.
• 41. I am confident that my background has prepared me well to excel in this position. I would be thrilled to join your talented team and organization.
• 42. With my passion, expertise, and proven ability to deliver results, I am prepared to dive in and immediately begin driving value through this role. I am excited by this opportunity and look forward to further discussion.
• 43. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of applying my skills in a challenging and rewarding position at your respected company. I am eager to learn more about this opportunity.
• 44. I am excited by the chance to join your dynamic team. My experience has fully prepared me to thrive in this position and help drive your organization’s continued success.
• 45. I am confident I possess the ideal qualifications for this opportunity. I would welcome the chance to join your team and contribute to future growth and innovation.
• 46. With my background and capabilities, I am prepared to excel in this role. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of applying my experience to benefit your organization. I look forward to speaking with you.
• 47. I am eager to utilize my expertise. Please contact me to arrange a meeting to discuss my qualifications.
• 48. I am excited by the prospect of joining your team. I am confident my skills and experience make me a competitive applicant for this opportunity. I look forward to further discussion.
• 49. This role seems like an excellent match for my background. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your organization’s success and future growth.
• 50. I am confident I possess the necessary experience and qualifications to excel in this position. I would be thrilled to join your talented team. I look forward to speaking with you.
• 51. I am excited by this opportunity and welcome the chance to further discuss my qualifications.
• 52. I am eager to apply my expertise in a challenging role that enables me to create meaningful impact. I am confident I would thrive in this position on your team.
• 53. I believe I am an excellent fit for this opportunity. I would be honored to join your organization and collaborate with your talented team. I look forward to further discussion.
• 54. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing my experience to help drive innovation and continued success. I am excited by this opportunity and confident in my ability to excel.
• 55. Thank you for reviewing my application. I am eager to bring my background and capabilities to this exciting role on your team. I am confident I can perform exceptionally well if given the opportunity. I look forward to speaking with you.
• 56. With my proven skills and expertise aligned with this position’s responsibilities, I am prepared to dive in and immediately begin adding value to your organization.
• 57. I am confident that my experience, capabilities and passion for excellence would allow me to thrive in this role. I would welcome the opportunity to join your respected organization and am eager to further discuss my qualifications.
• 58. I am excited by the prospect of utilizing my background to help drive innovation and success in this position. I am confident in my ability to excel on your team and look forward to learning more.
• 59. I believe I am an excellent candidate for this opportunity. I am enthusiastic about applying my experience to contribute to the continued growth and success of your esteemed organization.
• 60. With my proven track record and expertise, I know I would thrive in this role. I am eager to bring my skills and passion to your dynamic team. Thank you for your consideration – I look forward to discussing this opportunity further.

When choosing a closing statement, make sure it matches the overall tone of your cover letter and reflects your personality. Also, take into consideration the company culture and position you’re applying for.

Examples of Effective Cover Letter Closings

Formal closings.

• Respectfully,
• Yours faithfully,
• Kind regards,
• Best regards,
• Yours sincerely,
• Yours truly,

Semi-Formal Closings

• Warm regards,
• Best wishes,
• With appreciation,
• Looking forward to your response,
• Yours in professional success,
• Many thanks,
• Thank you for your consideration,
• Eager for the opportunity to connect,

Casual Closings

• Have a great day,
• All the best,
• Thanks so much,
• Excited to chat soon,
• Grateful for your time.

Polishing Your Cover Letter Ending

Proofreading for errors.

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-proofread cover letter. Before sending it off, give it a thorough read-through, and look closely for any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors. Consider using a grammar tool to help catch mistakes you might have missed. Also, ask a friend, family member, or even a professional to review your cover letter. Their fresh perspective can provide valuable insights and catch anything you might have overlooked.

Ensuring Consistency with Your Resume

To make your application seamless, double-check your cover letter and resume to ensure consistency. Pay special attention to details such as job titles, dates, and company names, as inconsistencies can raise concerns from potential employers. It’s also a good idea to match the formatting and fonts across both documents to give your application a polished and cohesive look. Make sure the skills and experiences you highlight in your cover letter are complementary to those mentioned in your resume, so they work together to make a strong case for your candidacy.

Sending Your Cover Letter

Email versus hard copy.

When sending your cover letter, you’ll usually have two options: email or hard copy. Each has its benefits and considerations:

• More convenient and faster
• Allows for easy tracking and organization
• Often preferred by employers
• Be sure to use professional language and an appropriate subject line
• Formal option, which may be required for certain industries or applications
• Neatly print and sign your cover letter
• Use quality paper and a matching envelope

It’s crucial to consider the preferences of the employer when deciding which method to use. If they haven’t specified a preference, feel free to choose the one that makes the most sense for you.

Following Submission Guidelines

No matter how well-written your cover letter is, failing to follow submission guidelines can hurt your chances of being considered for the position. Pay close attention to these key details when preparing your cover letter:

• Deadline: Be punctual in submitting your application – submit on time or even earlier.
• Formatting requirements: Follow any formatting requirements mentioned explicitly, such as font type, font size, and margins.
• File format: Save and send your cover letter in the requested file format, like PDF or Word Document (.docx).
• Contact information: Don’t forget to include your up-to-date contact information, such as your email address and phone number.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some strong closing statements for a cover letter that stand out to employers.

A strong closing statement should reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and demonstrate your confidence in your qualifications. Here are some examples:

• “I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to your team and look forward to discussing my qualifications further.”
• “Thank you for considering my application. I believe my expertise aligns well with the role, and I am eager to contribute to the success of your organization.”
• “I’m confident that my skills make me an ideal candidate for the position, and I’m eager to discuss how I can add value to your company.”

What’s the best way to format the closing section of my cover letter?

To format the closing section of your cover letter, you should:

• Leave a space between the last paragraph and your closing.
• Use a closing phrase like “Sincerely” or “Kind regards.”
• Add your full name and contact information, such as email address and phone number.
• If applicable, include any relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile or online portfolio.
• Leave a space between your closing phrase and your name so you can add a digital or printed signature.

Should I use ‘Kind regards’ or ‘Yours sincerely’ to finish off my cover letter?

Both ‘Kind regards’ and ‘Yours sincerely’ are acceptable and professional ways to end a cover letter. You can choose which one you feel most comfortable with or suits your individual style. In general, ‘Kind regards’ is a safe and widely used option, while ‘Yours sincerely’ is considered a bit more formal.

How can you make a cover letter feel personal and engaging without being too casual?

To make your cover letter personal and engaging, try these tips:

• Address the recipient by name, if possible, to create a connection.
• Start your cover letter by mentioning a specific detail about the company or role to show you’ve done your research.
• Share anecdotes from your experience that directly relate to the requirements of the job and showcase your unique qualities.
• Focus on the value you can bring to the company, rather than just listing your qualifications.
• Resume vs. Cover Letter (Thoughtful Tips)
• How to Send an Email Cover Letter (Examples)
• 3 Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples (Guide)
• Cover Letter vs. Letter of Interest vs. Letter of Intent
• 2 Smart Examples: Executive Assistant Cover Letter
• How To Write a Cover Letter [Inspiring Examples]

• 10+ Most Powerful Ways to Start a Cover Letter (with examples)

“Afoot and lighthearted I take to the open road, healthy, free, the world before me.”

- Walt Whitman

So, you have decided it is time for a job change or, maybe, you have just graduated and want/need to work in a real-life scenario for the first time in your life. Thusly, you find yourself amidst a job search. That was a hard choice in and of itself but now you have before yourself an even greater number of options.

A-a-and because the rent is coming and is not going to pay itself, you constantly bother yourself with and obsess over all the things little possibilities. Which resume format should I use? What kind of company to apply to? When to send the application? How do I start my cover letter ?

All of these points are important and should be carefully considered when seriously deciding to enter the job hunting market. However, some of them are more important than others are, for example, the point about the cover letter openings.

Why? According to BeHiring, HRs do not waste their time and spend only 6-8 seconds on a resume; I am myself afraid to guess how much time they spend on a cover letter and how much of it they take in but that is another discussion. Therefore, in such an environment, the ability to impress the reading HR in a few seconds is extremely crucial to getting employed.

That is exactly why we are talking about how to start a cover letter and everything that goes with it in this article.

So... how to begin a cover letter, again?

Wait-wait-wait, are you seriously already thinking up a cover letter introduction? No-no-no, you are jumping the gun. You may start your cover letter with the most catching and engaging paragraph in the world but it will be useless.

“Why?” you may ask? Because there is no personal information and your cover letter is not addressed to anybody. ‘Ah, these are simple formalities, who need them anyway?’ you may proclaim. Yes, these are pure bureaucratic formalities. However, you cannot go without this long-standing tradition. I know, I know, in this age of online application, who really needs you to repeat your contact information three thousand times. Yet, we still have to uphold this absurd tradition. So let us review how to do it.

This is very easy. At the very top, in the right corner, you write your name, mailing address, contact number, e-mail, and the date of application; that is it. The information has to be in this order, for example:

15 Nowhere Str., New York, NY 10001

+ 1 365 228 14 48

[email protected]

The next question that pops is “To whom should I address it to?” This is a piece of cake; you have only two options. Either you search up your interviewer and write their surname, like in this example:

• Dear Mr./Ms. Surname

Or you can use one of these eternal addresses:

• Dear [Company Name] Hiring Manager
• To whom it may concern

I do have to mention, however, that some people find it too intrusive to have their name looked upon personal social profiles. So, I would recommend being careful with searching up people.

How about starting a cover letter by tailoring to the company’s needs?

Now that we have discussed the genuinely boring part, let us actually start writing. Okay, there are many-many-many options when writing a cover letter, as it, of course, is a creative endeavor. You can get dazed by the possibilities. For example, should you tell about your overall successes, should you focus on impressive and unique duties that you executed, or should you start with your valuable experience?

So, to alleviate this task, I propose you focus on the company for a bit. Try to research the company you are applying for, find out about their needs, then try to connect their needs with your achievements during previous employment. The research part is fairly easy to do, as the company’s needs are designated in the job listing; the connecting, however, is hard and requires some mental work.

Cover letter intros may just contain info about the company

Cross-referencing your experiences and abilities with the company’s needs is a great way to get any recruited interested in you. If you, however, do not have appropriate experience, have no notable achievements, and/or your skills do not even partially correlate to the position you are applying for, you can opt for a bit of flattery.

Yes, again we are concentrating on the company again (though this time out of necessity). An application from someone that knows everything about their company and/or extremely passionate about their goals, ideas, and company culture shows that someone is prepared, able, and eager. Nevertheless, please avoid sounding insincere by showering the company with compliments. A simple mention of the company’s recent feats can show exactly what I was talking about.

Here are some cover letter starters that concentrate on company’s feats

• Even though I am stably employed at [Company A], the job description for [Company X]’s financial manager has completely taken over me. [Company X]’s reputation and my own recent experience with their social responsibility program have impressed me greatly, as I am myself a great advocate for social causes.
• In 2018 alone [Company X] has achieved a stupendous business growth of 236%, which is all thanks to the newly implemented customer communication initiative. A company that is ready to reorganize a couple of their department completely to just be more customer-friendly is a company that I want to work for.
• [Company X]’s the recent achievement of being recognized as the best company on employee development is sure to make many job-seekers very trigger happy about applying for your company. However, not everybody knows that this was possible thanks to the hard work and innovations of the HR department.

Some great cover letters usually open with a connection between the applicant and the company

We have discussed the professional connection to the company, so, how about inserting your personal relationship and experience with the company into the cover letter opening. Especially effective is a touching story from your childhood. Such a strong psychological bond will surely make the recruiter consider you for quite some time.

You want such an intro but have no ideas? Here are some introduction paragraph examples:

• My whole childhood was spent across the street from a branch office of [Company X]. Ever since I was little, I watched all the busy work inside the office. Back then, I wanted to experience what it meant to work at [Company X]. Now that I have the opportunity, I wish to fulfill my long-living dream and be involved neck-deep in your culture and work.
• One time, I had the lucky opportunity to interact with the sales department at [Company X] and it was unforgettable. The stories they told made me very excited and eager to work at your company.
• Ever since I completed my first internship at your company, I could not stand working for another company. I tried, I really tried, as you can see from my work background, but nothing came out of it. Your company culture has completely charmed me, which is why I am applying for a position.

Focusing on your uniqueness and personality in the cover letter intro is smart too

This strategy works perfectly with future-oriented companies. We are currently in the fourth revolution of the workplace and now, the spotlight goes to your individuality. No, don’t say ‘Excuse me?’ You heard me right: a strong cover letter can be absolutely egocentric nowadays. Here, however, the opening sentence should grab recruiter’s attention aggressively enough for him to read on till the end. What? Do you need an introduction paragraph example? Okay.

These examples include an intriguing cover letter first sentence that we have just discussed:

• Just how interesting developing software can be? No, really. I know, it is a strange question to come from someone who is applying for the data scientist position at your company but in reality: how interesting should it be that it is the only thing I want to think about
• Finding my passion was hard but incredibly rewarding: I had to work on this task for more than 7 years. Nonetheless, now that I’ve found it within me, I can start working with sincere enthusiasm and eagerness.
• Recently, I took a career assessment that told me that I should be an audio engineer, which, at first, surprised me. However, after thinking for a while, this was the only logical option for me, considering my passion for physics and sound.

Write an attention grabbing cover letter by using sass and humor

I am going to be completely honest here; this way of “attention-grabbing” is very risky. Many factors can go wrong here. A recruiter may not understand your humor, he may not like it, he may even hate the approach you are taking with your cover letter. However, if you are a risk-taker, then you might try to do this.

Here too, a hook sentence is very important:

• I want you to apply for the GM position at your company. If that position is taken, then the customer service associate position will do too.
• Do you need someone that you can rely on, trust, and give a hard task to complete in time? Well, that’s me (only if you employ me though).
• My wife doesn’t want us to move, which is why when I say I am applying for long-term employment, I actually mean it.

I hope that after reading all of the recommendations, you’ll stop wondering how to start a cover letter, be able to decide upon one, and write something that resembles you.

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