How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Examples

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After weeks of heavy job search, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume. 

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send your application and call it a day, you remember that the job ad requires a cover letter.

Now you’re stuck wondering how to write a cover letter ...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

  • What’s a cover letter & why it’s important for your job search
  • How to write a convincing cover letter that gets you the job (step-by-step!)
  • How to perfect your cover letter with the Novoresume free checklist
  • What excellent cover letter examples look like

New to cover letter writing? Give our resumes 101 video a watch before diving into the article!

So, let’s get started with the basics!

What is a Cover Letter? (and Why It’s Important)

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application (alongside your CV or Resume). 

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can spark the HR manager’s interest and get them to read your resume. 

A bad cover letter, on the other hand, might mean that your application is going directly to the paper shredder. So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

How does a good cover letter look, you might ask. Well, here’s an example:

how to write cover letter

Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you don’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume.

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, writing all this might seem pretty tough. After all, you’re probably not a professional writer.

The thing is, though, you don’t need to be creative, or even any good at writing. All you have to do is follow a tried-and-tested format:

  • Header - Input contact information
  • Greeting the hiring manager
  • Opening paragraph - Grab the reader’s attention with 2-3 of your top achievements
  • Second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job
  • Third paragraph - Explain why you’re a good match for the company
  • Formal closing

Or, here’s what this looks like in practice:

structure of a cover letter

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter (And Get Hired!)

Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, we’re going to guide you through the process of writing a cover letter step by step. 

Step #1 - Pick the Right Cover Letter Template

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

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, visual template?

cover letter templates

You can simply pick one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in a jiffy!

As a bonus, our AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter on the go.

Step #2 - Start the Cover Letter with a Header

As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with a Contact Information section:

contact information on a cover letter

Here, you want to include all essential information, including:

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

In certain cases, you might also consider adding:

  • Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
  • Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your blog.

And here’s what you shouldn’t mention in your header:

  • Your Full Address 
  • Unprofessional Email - Make sure your email is presentable. It’s pretty hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Whenever applying for jobs, stick to the “[first name] + [last name] @ email provider.com” format.

matching resume and cover letter

Step #3 - Greet the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed your contact information, you need to start writing the cover letter contents.

The first thing to do here is to address the cover letter to the hiring manager .

That’s right, the hiring manager! Not the overly popular “Dear Sir or Madam.” You want to show your future boss that you did your research and are really passionate about working with their team.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes to get hired in any of them.

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager? There are several ways to do this. 

The simplest option is to look up the head of the relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably Head of Communications or Chief Communications Office.

So, you do a quick lookup on LinkedIn:

linkedin search cco

And voila! You have your hiring manager.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of a server. In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager.”

If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Here are several other greetings you could use:

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

Step #4 - Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph .

The #1 problem we see with most cover letter opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Most of them look something like this..

  • Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say pretty much anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

Do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

So now, let’s make our previous example shine:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed their sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the job.

See the difference between the two examples? If you were the hiring manager, which sales manager would you hire, Jonathan or Michael?

Now that we’ve covered the introduction, let’s talk about the body of your cover letter. This part is split into two paragraphs: the first is for explaining why you’re the perfect person for the job, and the latter is for proving that you’re a good fit for the company.

So, let’s get started...

Step #5 - Explain why you’re the perfect person for the job

This is where you show off your professional skills and convince the HR manager that you’re a better fit for the job than all the other applicants.

But first things first - before you even write anything, you need to learn what the most important requirements for the role are. So, open up the job ad and identify which of the responsibilities are the most critical.

For the sake of the example, let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. You scan the job ad and see that the top requirements are:

  • Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
  • Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
  • Excellent copywriting skills

Now, in this section, you need to discuss how you fulfill these requirements. So, here’s how that would look for our example:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation & management process end-to-end. Meaning, I created the ad copy , images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

  • Google Search

Are you a student applying for your first internship? You probably don’t have a lot of work experience to show off in this section. Learn how to write an internship cover letter here.

Step #6 - Explain why you’re a good fit for the company

Once you’ve written the last paragraph, you might be thinking - I’m a shoo-in for the job! What else do I need to write? I’ll just wrap up the cover letter and hit that sweet SEND button.

Well, no. You’re not quite there yet.

The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.

After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary . 

Meaning, you also need to convince the HR manager that you’re really passionate about working with them.

How do you do this? Well, as a start, you want to do some research about the company. You want to know things like:

  • What’s the company’s business model?
  • What’s the company product or service? Have you used it?
  • What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?

So, get to Googling. Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or somewhere around the web.

Then, you need to figure out what you like about the company and turn that into text.

Let’s say, for example, you’re passionate about their product and you like the culture of innovation / independent work in the organization.

You’d write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2 were real game changers for the device. 

I really admire how Company XYZ thrives for excellence for all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone that thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I and Company XYZ will be a great match.

What you don’t want to do here is be super generic for the sake of having something to write. Most job seekers tend to mess this one up. Let’s take a look at a very common example we tend to see (way too often):

I’d love to work for Company XYZ because of its culture of innovation. I believe that since I’m super creative, I’d be a good fit for the company. The company values of integrity and transparency really vibe with me.

See what’s wrong here? The example doesn’t really say anything about the company. “Culture of Innovation” is something most companies claim to have. 

The same goes for “values of integrity and transparency” - the writer just googled what the values for the organization are, and said that they like them.

Any hiring manager that reads this will see through the fluff.

So, make sure to do a lot of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying.

Step #7 - Wrap up with a call to action

Finally, it’s time to finish up your cover letter and write the conclusion.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

  • Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? Any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision? Mention it here.
  • Thank the hiring manager for their time. It never hurts to be courteous, as long as you don’t come off as too needy.
  • Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. You should ask the hiring manager to take some sort of action.

And now, let’s turn this into a practical example:

So to wrap it all up, thanks for looking into my application. I hope I can help Company X make the most out of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your facebook marketing goals.

Step #8 - Use the right formal closing

Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.

Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions to a cover letter:

  • Best Regards,
  • Kind Regards,

And we’re finally done! Before sending off the cover letter, make sure to proofread it with software like Grammarly, or maybe even get a friend to review it for you.

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

  • Professional email
  • Relevant Social Media Profiles

Do you address the right person? I.e. hiring manager in the company / your future direct supervisor

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

  • Did you mention 2-3 of your top achievements?
  • Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?

Do you successfully convey that you’re the right pro for the job?

  • Did you identify the core requirements?
  • Did you successfully convey how your experiences help you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

  • Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
  • Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you finalize the conclusion with a call to action?

Did you use the right formal closure for the cover letter?

5+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Read on to learn about some of the best cover letter examples we’ve seen (for different fields).

College Student Cover Letter Example

college or student cover letter example

Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Middle Management Cover Letter

Career Change Cover Letter Example

Career Change Cover Letter

Management Cover Letter Example

Management Cover Letter Example

Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Want to discover more examples AND learn what makes them stand out? Check out our guide to cover letter examples .

Next Steps in Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application is for naught. 

After all, a cover letter is just an introduction. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression, but flopping at the end because of a mediocre resume.

...But don’t you worry, we’ve got you covered on that end, too.

If you want to learn more about Resumes & CVs, we have a dedicated FREE guide for that. Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume , as well as how to write a CV - our experts will teach you everything you need to know in order to land your dream job.

Or, if you’re already an expert, just pick one of our resume templates and get started.

resume examples for cover letter

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

  • A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that convinces the hiring manager of your competence
  • A cover letter goes in your job application alongside your resume
  • Your introduction to the cover letter should grab the hiring manager’s attention and keep it all the way until the conclusion
  • There are 2 main topics you need to include in your cover letter: why you’re the perfect candidate for the job & why you’re passionate about working in the company you’re applying to
  • Most of the content of your cover letter should be factual , without any fluff or generalizations

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve, every step of the way! Follow our blog to stay up to date with the industry-leading advice. Or, check out some of our top guides…

  • How to Write a Motivational Letter
  • How to Write a Resume with No Work Experience
  • Most Common Interview Questions and Answers

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Cover Letter Examples and How-to Guides for 2024

Explore our professionally crafted cover letter samples for any job or industry. Get inspired and boost your chances of landing your dream job.

Cover Letter Examples

Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from 18 professional cover letter templates that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

Zety Cover Letter Example

Sample cover letter for a resume made with our builder—See more templates and create your cover letter here .

One of our users, Nikos, had this to say:

[I used] a nice template I found on Zety. My resume is now one page long, not three . With the same stuff.

Categories:

  • Accounting & Finance
  • Construction
  • Creative & Cultural Fields
  • Education & Learning
  • Engineering & Scientific
  • Food Service
  • Government and NGOs
  • Hospitality Travel & Transportation
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Legal Services
  • Law Enforcement & Emergency
  • Management & Leadership
  • Media and Entertainment
  • Medicine Healthcare & Wellbeing
  • Office & Administrative
  • Retail & Customer Service
  • Sales & Marketing

Professional Cover Letter Builder

Zety’s cover letter builder makes writing easy for you and less time-consuming, Use our beautiful, customizable templates recommended by HR pros to wow every recruiter.

Accounting & Finance Cover Letter Examples

Have a gig in finance or accounting? Want to move up the ladder? See our sample cover letters to get you there.

  • Accounting Intern
  • Accounting Manager
  • Accounts Payable
  • Bank Teller
  • Business Analyst
  • Financial Analyst
  • Investment Banking

Creative & Cultural Fields Cover Letter Examples

A cover letter can often speak volumes, sometimes even more than your portfolio. Dive into our collection of creative cover letter examples and ignite your inspiration.

  • Art Teacher
  • Editorial Assistant
  • Event Manager
  • Event Planner
  • Graphic Design
  • Interior Design
  • Photographer
  • Production Assistant
  • Public Relations (PR)
  • Social Media Manager
  • Technical Writer

Construction Cover Letter Examples

You need the right blueprint to craft your own cover letter. With our sample cover letters, you'll have the building block to finish yours quickly.

  • Architecture
  • Architecture Intern

Education & Learning Cover Letter Examples

Think of our cover letter examples as an open-book take-home test—just fill in the blanks with the right answers.

  • Academic Advisor
  • Adjunct Professor
  • Admissions Counselor
  • Assistant Principal
  • Assistant Professor
  • Cover Letter for College Student
  • Cover Letter for Scholarship Application
  • Elementary Teacher
  • ESL Teacher
  • for Graduate School
  • Graduate Assistantship
  • High School
  • Library Assistant
  • New Teacher
  • Paraeducator
  • Paraprofessional
  • Personal Trainer
  • Preschool Teacher
  • Recent Graduate
  • Research Assistant
  • Research Associate
  • School Counselor
  • Substitute Teacher
  • Teaching Assistant

Engineering & Scientific Cover Letter Examples

Engineers too, require a compelling cover letter. Discover top-notch cover letter samples tailored for engineering and science professions, and fuel your career trajectory.

  • Computer Science
  • Data Scientist
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Engineering
  • Engineering Internship
  • Environmental Scientist
  • IT Technician
  • Lab Technician
  • Mechanical Engineer

Food Service Cover Letter Examples

To have the crème de la crème of cover letters for the food service industry, use our cover letter examples as the perfect recipe to get you there.

  • Restaurant Manager

Government and NGOs Cover Letter Examples

Elevate your cover letter to presidential standards with our cover letter examples tailored specifically for governmental or NGO job applications.

Hospitality Travel & Transportation Cover Letter Examples

Don’t take the hard road when crafting your cover letter—use our transportation and hospitality industry sample cover letters to get your profile revved up.

  • Flight Attendant
  • Hospitality

Information Technology (IT) Cover Letter Examples

You code Java in your sleep but come up on the zero binary end when writing a cover letter. Use a perfect cover letter sample for your job, and you'll be done in no time.

  • Cyber Security
  • Data Analyst
  • Front End Developer
  • Network Engineer
  • Software Developer
  • Software Engineer
  • System Administrator
  • UX Designer
  • Web Designer
  • Web Developer

Legal Cover Letter Examples

You need a legal cover letter that won’t result in a hung (recruiter) jury. Use our sample cover letters to get a unanimous victory.

  • Judicial Clerkship
  • Legal Assistant

Law Enforcement & Emergency Services Cover Letter Examples

Give the Chief probable cause to read your resume. These professional law enforcement and emergency services cover letter examples will show them why you're the best choice

  • Firefighter
  • Law Enforcement
  • Police Officer
  • Security Guard
  • Security Officer

Management & Leadership Cover Letter Examples

You're a natural leader, adept at leveraging expert advice. Amplify your potential with our top-notch cover letter examples for management and leadership positions, designed to guarantee your success.

  • Executive Director
  • Management Consulting
  • Operations Manager
  • Product Manager
  • Program Manager
  • Project Coordinator
  • Project Manager

Media and Entertainment Cover Letter Examples

Whether you craft compelling copy, take two on television, or report rumors and revelations, you know how to send a message. Show you're the best fit for the job with inspiration from our media examples of a cover letter.

Medicine Healthcare & Wellbeing Cover Letter Examples

In healthcare, details matter - this includes your cover letter. Use our cover letter examples to help make yours better.

  • Cosmetology
  • Dental Assistant
  • Dental Hygiene
  • Esthetician
  • Lab Assistant
  • Massage Therapist
  • Medical Assistant
  • Medical Receptionist
  • Medical Scribe
  • New Grad Registered Nurse (RN)
  • Nurse Practitioner
  • Nursing Student
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Phlebotomist
  • Physical Therapy
  • Physician Assistant
  • Public Health
  • School Nurse
  • Speech Language Pathologist (SLP)
  • Veterinary Assistant

Manufacturing & Warehousing Cover Letter Examples

Prove you've got the right skills in stock using our expedited cover letter examples for warehousing and manufacturing.

  • Apprenticeship

Office & Administrative Cover Letter Examples

Any organization without you is like a car with no engine. These example cover letters will help you make it clear to employers you are that missing part.—show them how with a great office & administrative cover letter.

  • Administrative
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Call Center
  • Case Manager
  • Executive Assistant
  • HR Generalist
  • Human Resources
  • Office Assistant
  • Office Manager
  • Personal Assistant
  • Receptionist
  • Social Work
  • Virtual Assistant

Retail & Customer Service Cover Letter Examples

We believe in delivering on our promises, just like you do for your customers. That's why our meticulously crafted customer service cover letter examples are designed to help you land that coveted job.

  • Customer Service
  • Customer Success Manager
  • Retail Management
  • Technical Support

Sales & Marketing Cover Letter Examples

You know sales isn't about manipulating—it's about offering a solution to a problem. Our sample cover letter for sales jobs do just that.

  • Account Manager
  • Business Development
  • Digital Marketing
  • Marketing Coordinator
  • Marketing Intern
  • Marketing Manager
  • Sales Associate
  • Sales Manager
  • Sales Representative
  • Store Manager

Other Cover Letter Examples

Need a cover letter sample for different scenarios you find yourself in at this stage of your career? Check out the relevant cover letter templates you need here.

  • Career Change
  • Cold Call / Unsolicited Cover Letter
  • Electrician
  • Entry-Level
  • for Internal Position
  • Killer Cover Letter
  • Maintenance
  • No Experience
  • Pain Letter
  • Perfect Cover Letter
  • Real Estate
  • Short Cover Letter Examples

Examples of Cover Letter Templates

Dear Mr. Portis,

When I found the opening for the Account position with Kaiser Permanente, I felt as if it was addressed to me. In my current position as Junior Accountant at the Pasadena Unified School District, I’ve managed a monthly bank reconciliation of over $400,000. I’m sure I can use my expertise at Kaiser Permanente.

In my current position as a Junior Accountant with the Pasadena Unified School District, my key challenge has been planning an annual budget and updating monthly forecasts. Here are some of my recent results:

  • SAP implementation including creation of general ledger chart of accounts and data testing.
  • Streamlined analysis and reporting processes to support company directives.
  • Ensured all departmental invoices were correctly coded and documented for payment within the period. Worked with vendors to ensure all invoices were paid on a timely basis.

I know that Kaiser Permanente’s current plans involve moving to in-house accounting. It would be an exciting opportunity for me to use my skills to develop this project.

Can we schedule a meeting to discuss my solutions for helping Kaiser Permanente have proper in-house accounting?

Dieter Bender

General cover letter example

General Cover Letter

A good cover letter is a personalized cover letter. Getting everything right takes time…and you need to submit your application right this second . Use this cover letter sample to create unique cover letters fast and easy—no matter if you need two or 20 versions.

Dear Mr. Scotten,

I'm so excited to apply for the IT Project Manager position at Weniger Aerospace.

At A/G Systems, I saved 10 meeting hours a week for 20 engineers. I did it by automating our program requirements management with Oracle Primavera. At $90 an hour, that’s $864,000 saved per year. I'm proud of that—not least because my title wasn't "IT PMP" but "Program Administrator." Transitioning to 100% IT PMP at Weniger would use my IT skills and passion to the full.

I know you're looking for an IT PMP with 5+ years of experience. I've spent 6 years creating robust IT systems with these achievements in the skill areas in your ad:

  • Customer Relationship Management. Worked directly with 200+ customers to integrate our software into daily workflows. Slashed complaints by 25%.
  • Trained, mentored, and on-boarded 15 new IT hires. Handled all new user training, cutting customer issues 30%. Gave software training to 12 business units nationwide.
  • Led project to develop custom ERP software, automating requirements-tracking from 20,000 customers and 150+ programs.
  • Wrote test scripts and coordinated testing through cross-functional teams. Expanded custom software to integrate with ERP. Slashed daily disruptions 50%.

I'm very interested in sharing how I can deliver IT PMP excellence at Weniger Aerospace. Can we schedule a call?

Best Regards,

Samantha Sunstein

PS—I'm also happy to explain how I used Oracle Primavera to automate project tracking, eliminating 120+ work-hours per year.

Cover letter example for career change

Career Change Cover Letter

Most people don’t do the same job for years, but career changers get the double-take. This sample letter will show you how to prove you have what it takes to start a new career. Convince the employer you’re the perfect candidate with help from this example.

Dear Larissa,

I was so excited when my protein shake packaging design was shortlisted for an Adobe Design Achievement Award.

It was no accident. Design has been a passion of mine since I was ten. I treated the coursework for my B.A. in Design at UMass Boston as a jumping-off point. My classes lit the way, but I dug in deeper with:

  • Extensive extra-curricular reading of over 200 books on design, art, and business.
  • Conducting a weekly podcast with interviews of 100+ top designers (and 1500+ subscribers).
  • Freelance work on nights, weekends, and in the summers designing products for small money but with great return in terms of lesson learned.

When Dr. Stanhope suggested I apply for this internship, his reasoning was flawless. Paralith’s commitment to developing its interns far beyond mere clock-punching speaks directly to my voracious appetite for continued growth.

I would love to put my passion and skill to work for you. Can we schedule a call to discuss winning awards and accolades for Paralith?

Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

Giovanna Darcy

Cover letter example for internship

Internship Cover Letter

Landing an internship is tough. Landing a placement that opens you up to great opportunities is even harder. This cover letter example will show you how to make the most of you skills, education, and attitude to win top companies over.

Dear Mr. Bartz,

My name is Jean West, a junior at Greenville High Academy interested in becoming a public administrator in local government. I was thrilled to come across an opening for a Front Desk Clerk with the Greenville City Council. As the High School President and Model UN participant, I am a highly driven high school student who would help Greenville City Council’s administrative challenges.

I know the main duties for this position will be to maintain a professional relationship with visitors and answering multi-line phones and transferring calls to staff members. As the Student Body President, I’ve had to maintain a professional relationship with both students and staff, while being a representative for certain student body issues. We were able to introduce several new amendments to the student handbook and showed care and compassion to all students attending Greenville High Academy.

I am applying to the Greenville City Council specifically as a way to become more involved in local politics and further my professional growth in the field. This is why I’m so excited about this opening. I’d love the opportunity to be involved in local politics in a more fundamental way.

Can we schedule a call next week to discuss this position further?

Cover letter example for student

Student Cover Letter

Your job search is a catch-22: you want to work, but haven’t done enough work to get hired. These cover letter examples will help you escape this vicious circle. Be yourself, we’ll just help you bring out the best in you and give the employers the best candidate: you .

Dear Ms Danz,

It would realize a long-term dream of mine to fill the open digital marketing specialist position here at XYZ Foods. When I first got my job in customer service here, it was because your team member Arnold Dickey advised me to take any job at the company, exceed expectations, build marketing skills, then apply for a transfer to marketing. After just two months I was promoted to senior customer service agent for quick thinking and a strong work ethic. (I saved the company $2,000 a month with one suggestion.)

I read the job posting carefully and spoke with several of your team members. I know the position calls for product knowledge, written and verbal communication, and a strong sense of who our customers are. I believe I’m the perfect fit. I’ve passed quarterly product knowledge quizzes with the highest scores in my department. I’ve used strong communication skills to achieve 95% positive customer survey scores and write up daily error-free reports. My department record of 75+ calls handled per day gives me an excellent understanding of our target demographic.

The most compelling part of this position to me is that it’s the perfect fit. I’ve dreamed of working as a digital marketing specialist at XYZ for the past seven years, taking fifteen online classes from Wharton and doing 20 freelance projects on nights and weekends.

My supervisor here at XYZ customer service is happy to let me meet with you any weekday. Can we set up a time to chat about how I can exceed your expectations as I’ve exceeded hers?

Sincerely, Susan Morris

Cover letter example for internal position

Internal Position Cover Letter

A new position opened up in your company. You know you’re the best match, but you’re worried you’ll get overlooked. There’s competition, it’s not clear who gets promoted or transitioned. These cover letter samples will show you how to get the credit you’re due.

Dear Frances,

Presently, I’m the retail operations assistant manager for Reston Raiment, but I just today saw your advertisement for a manager at Willis Wearables and I’m excited to put forth my application. I’ve been a semi-frequent customer of WW over the years, and I’ve always adored the quality of your products and the helpfulness of the staff.

During my managerial career, I’ve acquired many skills and much supervisory knowledge. These abilities, coupled with my 5+ years of management experience, make me a strong contender for this position, I believe. On top of those mentioned things, I’m also honored to have achieved some important small successes, including:

  • Reduced employee turnover rates by 50% by creating a healthier, more family-like work environment.
  • Cut overhead costs by around $3,000 per month by implementing sustainable electronics and devices throughout the store.
  • Increased sales by 30% (2018 vs. 2017) in the holiday season by spearheading a new sales and marketing campaign.

These are but a few examples, but I hope they help to show you my management experience, a love for the job, passion, and dedication. I’m eager for the opportunity to bring these characteristics over to a store I’ve always admired.

If you’d give me the chance, I’d love to show you how I can build upon your current success and take Willis Wearables to the next level.

Karen D. Valenzuela

P.S.—What would you say to having a coffee together? I know a great cafe near your store, and I’d be happy for the chance to discuss how I can bring an increase in sales (30%) to WW this upcoming holiday season.

Cover letter example for manager

Manager Cover Letter

What makes this sample cover letter great? Quantifies and shows a good fit:

  • Uses numbers to prove she’s the best candidate.
  • Adds value to her profile by listing key deliverables.

Dear Jacqueline,

As a longtime fan of Acme’s company culture and products, I was excited to see the opening for an administrative assistant. With my lengthy experience as an administrative assistant with Fancy Malls, I know I can use my skill set and knowledge to become a valuable member of the Acme team.

In my current position with Fancy Malls, I’ve had many responsibilities and achievements that would serve me well in a role at Acme. Fancy Malls has a similar business structure and product lineup to those at Acme, so I believe I would make a smooth and quick transition. On top of that, my invoice management and directory maintenance were leading performance boosters for the company, and I’m sure that I could achieve similar results at Acme, such as:

  • I saved $3,000 a year in office supplies after negotiating a new deal with the current supplier.
  • I increased sales by 7% after implementing an automatic follow-up approach using a CRM program.

Obtaining the administrative assistant position at Acme would be my dream come true. I’ve long been a fan and personal user of several of your products. In fact, Acme’s unique company culture is what prompted me to seek more challenging work. Though I love being in charge of a company’s multifaceted office support, there is no other office that would make me as happy to work for. I know, should I be honored with the position, that I’d be the envy of my circle of friends!

I would eagerly welcome the opportunity to discuss your current administrative objectives and show you how my successes at Fancy Malls can translate into growth for Acme.

P.S. - I’d love the opportunity to sit down with you and go over how I can bring similar results to the 10% cost savings I achieved at Fancy Malls to the Acme office, as well.

Cover letter example for administrative assistant

Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

What makes this sample cover letter stand out? Shows skills like a Swiss Army knife:

  • Shows adaptability and eager to meet any challenge.
  • Mirrors the requirements of the job ad with her best abilities.

Perfect Cover Letter Sample

Example of a cover letter with an explanation

  • Make it easy for recruiters to contact you .
  • Address a specific person with the right salutation.
  • Show your worth and fit with the company .
  • Sign off to make recruiters take action .
  • Highlight your unique value in the PS.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cover Letter Examples

What is a cover letter.

A cover letter is a document attached to a resume in your application that demonstrates your qualifications, achievements, and motivation to join your potential employer. It complements your resume by providing more details about your professional background so far . Remember that your cover letter design should match your resume . See our professional cover letter templates and resume templates that match perfectly together to help you climb the career ladder. If you opted for a CV instead, do not hesitate to check out our professional CV templates that will also go well with our cover letters. Interested in the topic? Read more about differences between a CV and a resume .

How to write a cover letter for 2024?

A good cover letter should include the following parts:

  • cover letter heading ;
  • cover letter greeting ;
  • first paragraph with a catchy cover letter opening ;
  • second paragraph explaining why you are the perfect fit for the company;
  • third paragraph with a call to action to make the recruiter realize that they do want to get in touch with you;
  • cover letter closing .

There are a few more tricks that you can use in your cover letter to garner additional attention for your candidacy. To find out more, read: what to include in a cover letter .

Do I need a professional template to write my cover letter?

They say you get only one chance to make a first impression, so the answer is yes. Recruiters go through hundreds of applications, so a well-formatted and a professional-looking cover letter will definitely help you stand out from other candidates. See our modern cover letter templates to make sure your cover letter strikes a chord with your recruiter.

Are cover letters really necessary?

Even though it is widely believed that recruiters do not read cover letters, in most cases you do need a cover letter . A well-written cover letter sets the tone for your resume, as it allows you to point out your professional experience and special skills in more detail. It also shows your motivation to take the job. So don’t hesitate to write one, even if it’s not required by the job ad.

How long should a cover letter be?

Your cover letter should ideally be one-page long, and preferably prepared in a professional template that will help you take your cover letter layout to the next level. A good cover letter should include 3–4 short paragraphs and no more than 400 words in total. Remember that recruiters prefer brief and easy-to-read content, so do not overwhelm them with too many irrelevant details. We encourage you to read more on the ideal cover letter length in 2024 .

How to format a cover letter?

When you write a cover letter, remember about the following rules for formatting:

  • Set one-inch margins on all sides.
  • Left-align all contents. Don’t use justification, it’s against the standard rules of business letter formatting.
  • Use business cover letter spacing : 1 or 1.15.
  • Put double spaces between paragraphs.
  • Use easy-to-read cover letter fonts , such as Arial, Calibri, Verdana, Helvetica, Cambria, or Times New Roman. Keep the font size between 11 and 12 pt.

We also advise you to take a deeper look at how to format your cover letter .

What do you write in a cover letter if you have no experience?

Writing a cover letter when you have little job experience and hard skills may seem like an impossible task, but don’t let that discourage you. Since there are no past jobs you could discuss in your document, try to focus on bringing out the best of your soft skills and show your passion for learning . List all experiences gathered in extracurricular activities, additional courses, or through volunteering . Before you start writing your entry-level cover letter , it is advisable to prepare your resume for your first job .

Should you write a different cover letter for each job application?

You should always customize your cover letter for each company you’re applying to, as it significantly increases your chances of landing a job interview. To make your cover letter job-specific, review the job ad carefully , identify the most important things the company is looking for in the perfect candidate, and use that information to draft a compelling cover letter. Read more on what a cover letter should say and remember that with our cover letter builder your perfect cover letter is just a few clicks away!

Should my cover letter be downloaded in Word or PDF?

As it is recommended to send your resume in a PDF format , your cover letter should come in the same format as well. Thanks to this, your cover letter layout will look good on any device and any operating system that the recruiters might be using. Try Zety cover letter templates to see how quick and easy it might be to come up with a professional-looking PDF cover letter.

Does Zety offer any resume examples that I could look at?

If you don’t know where to start with writing your CV, we suggest that you look at our resume examples . Find an example matching your profession, tailor proposed content to your needs and add it to one of Zety’s resume templates . If you want to get more information about this, read our guide on how to write a resume .Don’t know if you should write a resume or a CV? Read about differences between a CV and a resume

Are Zety cover letter examples available for free?

Yes, you can access cover letter examples for 100+ professions grouped by industry on Zety for free. Now all you have to do is tailor content proposed by Zety to your own needs and use our cover letter builder to create a job-winning cover letter accompanying your perfect resume .

Try Zety's professional cover letter builder now

Cover Letter Examples & Samples for All Jobs

Kellie Hanna, CPRW

Get inspired by cover letter examples written by our certified professionals and discover what makes each one stand out. We have samples for any job, industry or situation to help you craft a winning cover letter.

  • 30% higher chance of getting a job
  • 42% higher response rate from recruiters

A Resume Format Hero

Our customers have been hired at: * Foot Note

A well-crafted cover letter is the key to a winning job application. Your cover letter expands upon your resume, showcasing how your personality, experience and enthusiasm for the role make you the ideal candidate.

We’ve compiled a library of professional cover letter examples for different positions, industries and circumstances to help you get started. Easily search by job title or filter by industry to find a sample that suits your needs.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned professional, our comprehensive guide will equip you with the expert insights and actionable tips you need to craft a cover letter that stands out from the competition.

Cover letter examples by job title

Enter a job title to find the perfect cover letter example.

Administrative assistant cover letter example

Rachel Sanford is an administrative assistant. She has had an extensive, successful career and is looking to stand out from other candidates. Rachel needs a cover letter that brings attention to her professional accomplishments and skills.

This is a good administrative assistant cover letter example because:

  • It shows how bullet points help her highlight her extensive experience. 
  • The template is clean and professional, guiding the reader’s eye through the important information. 
  • It is easily tailored to a different audience while keeping the most important information relevant to the role.

Sales executive cover letter example /career gap

Steven Massey is an experienced sales executive with a forward-thinking approach. He recently took a career break to address a family matter, during which he also worked independently, acquiring new skills. Steven’s cover letter should highlight the valuable skills and perspectives he offers, rather than focusing on the reasons for his employment gap.

This sales executive cover letter example is good because:

  • The percentages highlight Steven’s achievements
  • It addresses the gap on his resume and quickly shifts the focus to the skills gained during that time. 
  • The template is modern with a pop of color, a subtle way to show he has kept up with industry trends.

Data entry cover letter example

Livia Sanders is poised to begin her career in programming. With a background in data entry and the necessary skills for a career transition, Livia requires a cover letter that showcases how her past experiences will be beneficial in her new role.

This data entry cover lette r example is good because:

  • Livia explains how programming has been used in her data entry jobs and how her data entry skills transfer to this new role.
  • It includes quantifiable achievements that highlight her interpersonal skills and her database skills.
  • The template is simple and professional keeping all the attention on the content.

Accountant cover letter example

Maggie Sanders, a proficient accountant known for her expertise in financial analysis and payroll management, attributes her success to her strong interpersonal skills. Her cover letter should emphasize how these soft skills enhance her financial competencies.

This accountant cover letter example is good because:

  • It combines Maggie’s quantifiable achievements with skills like communication, problem-solving and relationship-building.
  • It uses a professional, amenable tone that is easy to read and tailored to what the employer is seeking. 
  • It uses a contemporary template, that is ATS-friendly.

Teacher assistant cover letter example

April Hawkins, a dedicated teacher in search of the ideal career position, has experienced several brief roles in her journey. Her cover letter should frame these short tenures as enriching her skills and dedication to education.

This teacher assistant cover letter example is good because:

  • It first focuses on April’s skills, experiences and professional accomplishments.
  • It honestly addresses her short tenures, explaining the reason behind them and opening the door to future questions.
  • The template shows her personality and style while keeping a professional tone.

Cover letter examples by industry

  • Accounting cover letter examples
  • Example cover letters for administrative jobs
  • Professional cover letter examples for business operations jobs
  • Construction cover letter examples
  • Culinary cover letter examples
  • Sample cover letters for customer service jobs
  • Education cover letter samples
  • Examples of cover letters for a job in the food service industry
  • Resume cover letter examples for health care support jobs
  • Hospitality cover letter examples
  • Information technology job application letters
  • Best cover letter examples for law
  • Marketing cover letter samples
  • Medical cover letter examples
  • Nursing cover letter examples
  • Production cover letter samples
  • Retail application letter examples
  • Great cover letter examples for sales jobs
  • Social services cover letter examples
  • Teaching cover letter examples

Accounting cover letter examples (3)

For an accounting job, our employment cover letter examples can show you how to emphasize your number-crunching skills and your ability to work with others.

These cover letter examples show how to expand on your analytical acumen and your critical thinking skills. 

  • Accounting Assistant
  • Assistant Accountant

Our Cover Letter Builder will help you craft a great cover letter that tells employers who you are and what you can bring to the table. We offer:

  • Expert advice on every step.
  • Professional content suggestions.
  • A variety of formats to download and save your document.

Example cover letters for administrative jobs (14)

Your ability to multitask is unparalleled. These cover letter examples will help you show employers your keen eye for detail, good organization and proficiency with computer software.

  • Administrative Assistant
  • Clerical Assistant
  • Data Entry Clerk
  • Data Entry Specialist
  • Executive Assistant
  • Office Administrator
  • Office Assistant
  • Office Clerk
  • Office Manager
  • Personal Assistant
  • Practice Manager
  • Receptionist
  • Store Administrative Assistant

Administrative

Use our Cover Letter Builder to write a perfect cover letter. Our builder provides:

  • Professional guidance for every step in the process.
  • Expert suggestions for each section.
  • The ability to download and save your cover letter in multiple formats.

Professional cover letter examples for business operations jobs (11)

Your technical proficiency is as strong as your decision-making abilities. Our example of a cover letter for a resume will show you how to highlight your team coordination and superior communication skills.

  • Business Development Manager
  • Business Owner
  • Executive Director
  • Operations Manager
  • Operations Supervisor
  • Owner Operator
  • Shift Manager
  • Vice President

Business operations

Our Cover Letter Builder will help you to quickly and easily create a cover letter for a job application that gets noticed. We provide: 

  • Guidance and tools for each step. 
  • Professional content suggestions for each part of your cover letter. 
  • All major file formats to download and save your document.

Construction cover letter examples (4)

Use a cover letter for a job application to highlight your strong work ethic and ability to work with specific equipment, such as forklifts or cranes. Find your construction cover letter in these examples.

  • General Labourer
  • Site Manager

Construction

Our Cover Letter Builder will help you create the perfect cover letter that tells employers who you are and why you want to work for them. Plus, we provide:

  • Expert advice on every step of the process.

Culinary cover letter examples (6)

These job cover letter examples will show you how to highlight your enthusiasm, experience in a fast-paced work environment and knowledge of food preparation.

  • Bakery Clerk
  • Kitchen Hand
  • Kitchen Staff

Our Cover Letter Builder will help you build the perfect cover letter and provide: 

  • Guidance along the way.  
  • Expert tools and content suggestions for each section of your letter.

Sample cover letters for customer service jobs (12)

Use one of our customer service employment cover letter examples as a guide to highlight your commitment to assisting people, your ability to work as part of a team and display your personality to impress potential employers.

  • Customer Care Representative
  • Customer Service Advisor
  • Customer Service Agent
  • Customer Service Coordinator
  • Customer Service Manager
  • Customer Service Representative
  • Customer Service Specialist
  • Room Attendant
  • Service Advisor
  • Service Coordinator

Customer service

Create an effective cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder. We provide:

  • Professional advice along the way.
  • Job-specific keywords and skills.
  • All standard file formats to download and save your cover letter.

Education cover letter samples (7)

These are good cover letter examples to follow if you want to highlight your proficiency with specific subjects and intangible strengths such as flexibility, communication and patience.

  • Assistant Principal
  • Education Assistant Director
  • Educational Assistant
  • Resident Assistant

Use our Cover Letter Builder to make the perfect education cover letter. Our builder offers:

  • Expert guidance for writing a winning cover letter.
  • Professionally written content suggestions.
  • Multiple formats to download and save your cover letter.

Examples of cover letters for a job in the food service industry (7)

You’re a patient multitasker with exceptional communication skills. Display your experience in fast-paced work environments where teamwork is a necessity, like our expert-written cover letter examples for a job in the food service industry.

  • Bar Manager
  • Crew Member
  • Food Service Worker
  • Host/Hostess
  • Service Crew

Food service

Our Cover Letter Builder can help you expand on the skills you bring to the table and:

  • Professional advice for every step of the process.
  • Expert keywords and industry-specific phrases.
  • Multiple file formats for saving your cover letter.

Resume cover letter examples for health care support jobs (13)

Use our cover letter samples for guidance to include a story about services you’ve provided to patients and elaborate on your training and experience in health care.

  • Caregivers Companions
  • Home Health Aide
  • Medical Biller
  • Medical Receptionist
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Patient Care Tech
  • Patient Service Representative
  • Personal Care Aide
  • Personal Care Assistant
  • Personal Support Worker
  • Phlebotomist

Health care support

With the help of our Cover Letter Builder, you can create an effective cover letter with:

  • Expert advice for each step.

Hospitality cover letter examples (3)

These hospitality cover letter examples will inspire you to make the most of your exceptional customer service skills, organizational abilities and professional achievements.

  • Guest Service Agent
  • Guest Service Representative

Hospitality

With the help of our Cover Letter Builder, you can make the best impression with:

  • Expert content suggestions.
  • The ability to download and save your letter in all major file formats.

Information technology job application letters (3)

Use a sample cover letter for a resume for inspiration. Explain how you’ve used your top computer system maintenance skills and show how you’ve successfully improved IT operations in previous jobs

  • Senior Project Manager
  • Experienced Technical Support

Information technology

Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft an effective cover letter. We offer: 

  • Expert tools and guidance every step of the way. 
  • Industry and job-specific content suggestions for each section of your letter.
  • The ability to download and save your document in all major file formats.

Best cover letter examples for law (5)

A good cover letter provides a rundown of your experiences handling legal affairs, performing research or handling documentation and administration at a law firm. Our legal cover letter samples will help you plead your case that there’s no one better for the job.

  • Legal Assistant
  • Legal Receptionist
  • Legal Secretary

Our cover letter builder can help you build a compelling cover letter with:

  • All the tools and advice to craft a professional cover letter quickly. 
  • Professional content suggestions for each section of your letter. 
  • Multiple file formats for downloading and saving your document.

Marketing cover letter samples (6)

These examples of cover letters show your creativity, leadership and strategic thinking abilities while highlighting areas of focus like social media or email marketing.  

  • Brand Ambassador
  • Marketing Executive
  • Marketing Intern
  • Marketing Manager
  • Product Manager

Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft an effective cover letter. It provides:

  • Expert guidance every step of the way. 
  • Professional content suggestions and tools for optimizing each section of your letter.
  • All standard file formats to download and save your letter. 

Medical cover letter examples (9)

Go beyond standard credentials and training. Let our sample cover letters help you highlight your ability to empathize with patients, and display your medical knowledge and industry achievements.

  • Clinic Administrator
  • EMT Cover Letter Example
  • Medical Direct Support Professional
  • Medical Technologist
  • Radiologic Technologist
  • Speech Language Pathologist
  • Surgical Technologist

Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft a perfect medical cover letter. We offer:

  • Professional advice every step of the way. 
  • Expert tips and content suggestions.
  • All standard file formats to download and save your letter.

Nursing cover letter examples (14)

Our nursing cover letter samples will help you express your compassion for others, display your ability to multitask and showcase your attention to detail. Hiring managers won’t want to look away.

  • Experienced CNA
  • Certified Nurse Assistant
  • Charge Nurse
  • Director Of Nursing
  • Experienced Intensive Care Nurse
  • Nursing Assistant
  • Operating Room Nurse
  • Patient Care Technician
  • Perioperative Nurse
  • Student Nurse

Use our Cover Letter Builder to create a cover letter quickly and easily. We offer: 

  • Expert advice. 
  • Industry-standard keywords and tools to optimize your cover letter.
  • Multiple file formats to download and save your letter.  

Production cover letter samples (6)

A cover letter for a job application in production must showcase your ability to work with others, your heavy machinery knowledge, and your time management and safety skills.

  • Assembly Line
  • Forklift Operator
  • Petroleum Operator
  • Production Assistant
  • Production Operator
  • Production Supervisor

Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft an effective letter. We offer:

  • Professional advice for each step.
  • Expert tools and content suggestions for each section of your letter.  
  • All standard file formats to download and save your letter.  

Retail application letter examples (10)

Follow our retail cover letter examples on how to provide details about job-related skills such as maintaining merchandise and interpersonal skills . Use a retail cover letter example to create an effective cover letter.

  • Assistant Store Manager
  • Department Supervisor
  • District Manager
  • Parking Lot Associate
  • Part Time Cashiers
  • Regional Manager
  • Retail Assistant
  • Sales Supervisor
  • Shop Assistant
  • Store Manager

Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a compelling cover letter quickly and easily. We provide:

  • Tools and industry-specific content suggestions for each section.
  • Multiple file formats for saving your letter.

Great cover letter examples for sales jobs (10)

Use these sales sample cover letters for inspiration. Write a cover letter to highlight your interpersonal skills , important deals you’ve achieved and sell your best product: yourself!

  • Senior Consultant
  • Director Of Sales
  • Inside Sales
  • Lead Sales Associate
  • Outside Sales Representative
  • Regional Sales Manager
  • Sales Associate
  • Sales Executive
  • Sales Specialist
  • Salesperson

Social services cover letter examples (3)

Choose an example cover letter and learn how to emphasize your ability to communicate with others, highlight important projects and showcase your commitment to public serving.

  • Case Manager
  • Drug And Alcohol Counselor
  • Group Leader

Social services

Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a cover letter that gets noticed. We provide: 

  • Professional guidance along the way.
  • Expert content suggestions for each area of your cover letter. 
  • Multiple file formats to download and save your document.

Teaching cover letter examples (15)

Let potential employers know you have specialized knowledge, and explain how you enrich children in the classroom. Our sample cover letters for teaching positions can help!

  • Adjunct Professor
  • Assistant Teacher
  • Elementary Teacher
  • Graduate Assistant
  • Kindergarten Teacher
  • Master Teacher
  • Preschool Teacher
  • Student Assistant
  • Student Teacher
  • Summer Teacher
  • Teacher’s Aide
  • Teaching Assistant

Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a compelling teacher cover letter with ease. Our builder provides:

More popular industries

Find a cover letter example for your industry and career level. Learn how to connect with an employer, present the human side of your skills and show why you’re a candidate to consider

My Perfect Resume is loved by job seekers and recruiter-approved

Cover letter samples for unique situations, entry-level cover letter.

A simple cover letter should focus on your skills, education and willingness to learn in a new position. 

Use our Cover Letter Builder to create a cover letter that will help jump-start your career with: 

  • Expert advice throughout.
  • Multiple file formats for saving your document.

Entry-level cover letter example

A simple cover letter should focus on your skills, education and willingness to learn in a new position. In this cover letter example, you can see how it emphasizes the candidate’s training, skills and career ambition while showing how they can help the employer’s needs.

Career change cover letter

This modern cover letter example can help showcase the changes you’ve made to move forward in your career. It will also help highlight your transferable skills and career accomplishments.

Make this sample cover letter your own in our Cover Letter Builder, which includes:

  • Guidance on every step.
  • Expert phrases, skills and bullet points.
  • All major file formats to download and save your cover letter.

Career change cover letter for a job application

When changing careers, you must make a connection between jobs. Follow the lead of this cover letter for a career change example by highlighting skills you’ve developed in previous jobs that match the new one.

Employment gap cover letter

A cover letter is the best tool to explain a time period without employment. This employment gap cover letter example shows you how to approach the subject while keeping the attention on your skills and qualifications.  

You can edit this cover letter sample in our Cover Letter Builder, which provides:

  • Advice on every step.
  • The ability to save your document in all major formats.

Employment gap cover letter example

A cover letter is the best tool to explain a time period without employment. This employment gap cover letter example shows you how to approach the subject while focusing on your skills and qualifications.

“Cold call” cover letter

Take a confident approach with this cold call cover letter example. Let your skills and qualifications speak for themselves while you make a connection with an employer. 

Edit this sample cover letter with ease in our Cover Letter Builder, which provides you with:

  • Step-by-step guidance.

“Cold call” cover letter sample

Approaching a company without an open position requires a cold-call cover letter. With this example, learn how to positively and confidently approach an employer by showcasing your company knowledge, and what you bring to the table and connect with the human side.

Professional connection cover letter

Use our Cover Letter Builder and customize this cover letter sample to expand on the skills you’ve learned on the job and what you can offer the employer now. 

Use this sample to create your own in our Cover Letter Builder, which offers: 

  • Expert-approved content suggestions.

Professional connection cover letter example

Knowing the right people can help you find the next steps for your career. Write a cover letter that centers around your professional connection, as shown in this example of a professional connection cover letter for a resume.

Temporary-to-permanent employee cover letter

Make it official. Use a modern resume template to transition into a permanent position. Bring your achievements to the table,  explain what you’ve learned so far and how your skills have helped the success of your temporary employer. 

Use our Cover Letter Builder to create an effective cover letter for a promotion that takes you from a temp to a permanent employee with: 

  • Expert guidance on every step.
  • Professional content suggestions for each section of your letter.
  • A variety of file formats to download and save your document.

Temporary-to-permanent employee sample cover letter

The goal of these types of cover letters is to show hiring managers why they should hire you as a full-time employee. Our sample cover letter for a resume focuses on specific contributions and explains what you’ve learned so far and how you can add more value as a full-time employee.

Seeking promotion cover letter

You’ve impressed your employer with your skills and achievements, and now you want more. Use this contemporary cover letter sample to state your case, bring attention to your accomplishments and expand on what you could do in a higher position. 

Seeking promotion cover letter example

You’ve impressed your employer with your skills and achievements, and now you want more. Use this contemporary cover letter sample to state your case, bring attention to your accomplishments, and expand on what you could do in a higher position.

Unadvertised position cover letter

No need to wait until a job posting is available to apply. Write a cover letter for networking and reach out to a potential employer to share your enthusiasm and what you could bring to the company. 

Our Cover Letter Builder and cover letter sample can help you expand on the skills you can bring to the table and why you should be considered as a candidate. You will also get: 

  • Professional advice for every step.
  • Multiple file formats to download and save your cover letter. 

Sample cover letter for an unadvertised position

No posted job description to refer to? Use this cover letter example for a job that isn’t advertised to help you explain how you heard about the role and to share your enthusiasm about joining the team. Mention your top skills and accomplishments.

New position with current employer cover letter

A modern cover letter includes your career progress, goals reached while at the company and the knowledge acquired through experience. Find new footing in your career by adding a cover letter to your application. 

Create an effective cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder, which will help with:

  • Expert guidance along the way.
  • A variety of formats to download and save your cover letter.

Job application letter for a new position with current employer

Put your best foot forward with a compelling cover letter for a resume. Use this letter of interest sample for a job with the same employer to point out your accomplishments and explain how you will benefit your employer on future projects.

Referral cover letter

You’ve made an impression on your previous employers, and they’re willing to back you up. With this classic cover letter sample, you can expand on your skills and what you can bring to a new employer. 

Our Cover Letter Builder will help you craft a great cover letter with the referrals to back it up and offers:

Referral cover letter sample

When done correctly, telling an employer that someone in the company referred you lets them know you’re someone they can trust. Use our referral cover letter sample to do this correctly and catch their attention the right way.

What to include in a cover letter

Contact information:.

List your phone number and professional email address.

Employer’s information:

Include name, title, company address and email.

Salutation:

Address the letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager.

Start with a relevant accomplishment like our professional cover letter sample.

 Elaborate on your accomplishments and skills to show your value. Remember to include numbers and use keywords from the job description.

The best cover letter examples close by inviting employers to get in touch.

Want more examples of cover letters for resumes, plus tips for organizing and formatting a cover letter? Check out our guide to cover letter formats .

Other cover letter resources

The following articles are a great source of information to make our cover letter examples your own:

  • How to Position a Past Cannabis Industry Job in Your Cover Letter
  • 5 Qualities That are Part of Every Successful Cover Letter
  • 9 Best Cover Letter Tips for Extroverts

Get noticed with a polished cover letter

Use our cover letter examples as inspiration to write a perfect cover letter. Our Cover Letter Builder will guide you through each section of your cover letter and provide expert phrases you can include in just a few clicks.

Cover Letter Checklist

  • Does the cover letter match your resume?
  • Do you have the name and title of the person you’re addressing?
  • Does your cover letter heading include your current contact information?
  • Include your years of experience?
  • Include job-relevant accomplishments?
  • Include information to show you’ve researched the company?
  • Explain why you’re interested in the position?
  • Does your body paragraph explain why you’re the best candidate for the role?
  • Does your body paragraph state the value you bring to the company?
  • Summarize what you bring to the company?
  • Explain why you’re interested in the potential employer?
  • Include a strong call to action?
  • Does your letter expand on the information on your resume and not repeat it?
  • Is your cover letter for a job application grammatically correct?
  • Did you include keywords from the job description?

How to write a cover letter for a job that gets noticed?

Here are some tips for writing great cover letters: 

  • Don’t repeat your resume. Use your cover letter to elaborate on it.
  • Research the position and memorize the job requirements. 
  • Pick a professional cover letter template from our extensive library. It’s best practice to match it to your resume template. 
  • Use an AI cover letter generator to make a targeted cover letter in minutes.  
  • Find an example of an application letter for a job in your field for inspiration; we have more than 200 cover letter samples to choose from.
  • Add your contact information to the header.
  • Write the date.
  • Add the recipient’s address.
  • Address the hiring manager by name.
  • Write a short but powerful opening paragraph to introduce yourself.
  • Give details about your skills and experience in the body of your application letter.
  • Write a closing paragraph encouraging them to contact you for an interview.
  • Sign off professionally.
  • Proofread your cover letter content at least twice.

Use our guide How to Write a Cover Letter , with step-by-step instructions.

Why should I use your cover letter examples?

My Perfect Resume has 200+ cover letter examples that work for job seekers from all industries and job titles. We offer the following features:

  • They’re professionally designed to look their best: Our cover letter samples and cover letter templates are built to display your content neatly and effectively.
  • Provide guidance and tips for every job and industry: We have an example cover letter for every job. Select any example on this page and go to our Cover Letter Builder , which supplies expert suggestions and tips for every section.
  • Customize your letter for different jobs: It’s easy to update these application cover letter examples so they fit different jobs — and if you use our builder, you can save and download as many versions of your letter as you need.
  • Match your perfect letter with a perfect resume: Use our Resume Builder to create resumes that complement your letter in look and layout.

Are cover letters necessary?

Yes! According to the Society of Human Resources Management , a cover letter demonstrates your genuine interest in the job and company. It’s also an opportunity to discuss your accomplishments, introduce yourself more personally, and make a more detailed case for why the employer should be interested in you. This is why we have 200+ cover letter examples for jobs in dozens of industries — you can find the inspiration you need to write a letter that makes an impact for your industry and career level.

Should you write a different cover letter for each job application?

Absolutely! Every company and application is different. Tailoring your cover letter allows you to show if you have what they’re seeking. Plus, you want to ensure that what you write in your application cover letter and your tone align with the company culture, values and, most importantly, the job application.

What should not be included in a cover letter?

Here’s what not to include in a cover letter:

  • Spelling or grammatical errors
  • Information not relevant to the job
  • Personal information, such as your religious beliefs and political affiliations
  • Negative comments about your current or former employer
  • Overly flattering language
  • Your salary or work benefits requirements

For guidance on what should be in your cover letter, check out our guide on what to include in a cover letter for a job .

You can also browse our library of 200+ cover letter examples for jobs in various industries to get a good idea of what to write in your cover letter.

Should you address employment gaps in a cover letter?

You do not have to discuss the details of employment gaps due to personal reasons (such as an illness or a family matter that needed attending) in your cover letter for a job application. Neither do you need to explain gaps caused by your former employer firing or laying you off.

Instead, follow our employment gap cover letter example on this page, and write about your skills, qualifications and relevant experiences and how excited you are about this new opportunity. Just be prepared to discuss employment gaps during the job interview phase . If you can show you were busy with other important pursuits or trained on new skills during your time off, mention them in your letter.

What's the best approach to crafting an impactful cover letter?

Crafting an effective cover letter is a breeze with our guidance, and it only takes 15 minutes to create one for your resume.

  • A well-written cover letter is both visually appealing for effortless readability and contains content that captures the attention of recruiters.
  • To ensure a proper layout, use a sample cover letter template as a reference, keeping your letter concise and restricted to one page.

Your cover letter must address a fundamental query: What draws you to the role and the organization? Articulate why you’re the ideal candidate for the position and how you align with the company’s needs.

A well-researched and thoughtfully written cover letter can impress employers.

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Cover Letter Examples

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Kellie Hanna, CPRW

Kellie Hanna, CPRW

Career advice expert.

Kellie is a Certified Professional Resume Writer with 20+ years of experience in digital media and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate their careers. She earned a B.A. in English and writing from Temple University.

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How To Write a Cover Letter for a CV (With Examples)

examples of good cover letter for cv

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter for a CV

Proofread before sending, cover letter template, cover letter sample, sending an email cover letter, more cover letter examples.

When you apply for a job with a  curriculum vitae  (CV), it's important to include a cover letter, also known as a covering letter. This letter allows you to make a favorable first impression, using narrative in your own tone of voice to catch the reader’s attention and encourage them to seriously review your attached CV.

Like a resume, a CV summarizes your skills and experience. The  difference between a CV and a resume  is length, the focus on credentials, and what the documents are used for. Typically, a CV is required to apply for roles in academia, scientific research, and medical fields. 

While your CV provides a detailed—and often lengthy—look at your experience and credentials, the cover letter is an opportunity to call out your most important qualifications and make a compelling case for your candidacy for the role at hand. Here's what you need to know to write a successful curriculum vitae cover letter. 

Tailor the Letter to Fit the Organization

The CV cover letter should be  tailored to respond to the unique and specific requirements  requested by each organization you are approaching. 

Do not use the same cover letter for every job you apply to, even though it may seem like a timesaver. 

Each letter needs to provide detailed information about why are you are qualified for the specific job in question, and it should outline the reasons for your interest in the company or organization. Being specific is advantageous. Even if you're applying for two similar roles in two different hospitals, the two hospitals may serve different populations or require slightly different responsibilities for people in the role. Your letters to each hospital should reflect that. 

Use your cover letter to identify the skills or experiences most specific to the job, rather than copying directly the information in your CV.

What to Include

As a candidate, it's tempting to feel like the cover letter is unnecessary, since it is likely that all the pertinent information is included in your CV. Still, as you can see, the cover letter is a helpful tool in your application. Here's what to keep in mind as you write a cover letter. 

Format Matters

The content of your cover letter should be brief and structured. Aim for 3-5 paragraphs in your letter.  Start with a salutation. Your letter should address the relevant contact, whose name often appears in the job advertisement. Avoid “Sir” or “Madam” if possible.

If the letter recipient's name isn't provided, try these  tips to determine the correct contact person . 

Start With an Introduction

Typically, the first paragraph will be an introduction—if you are applying to a job ad, mention it here. Mention the job title, any reference number, and where and when you saw it. The first paragraph is also where you should mention if someone referred you to the position. 

The Body of the Cover Letter

The body of the letter—the second and third paragraphs—should highlight your relevant skills and experience. Highlight your  transferable skills , achievements, and versatility. Explain what you can contribute and what makes you stand out from your competition. Include mention of your current or last job, qualifications, and professional and academic training, tailoring your information to make it as relevant as possible to the organization or job applied for.

In the body of the cover letter, you can mention personality traits relevant to the role at hand. You can also use this space to call out why you're interested in this specific role, at this specific company. Potential employers and hiring managers will appreciate it if you can show you've read the job ad and researched the company. 

Avoid lengthy repetition of information covered in your CV. Unlike a CV, it is acceptable to write a cover letter in the first person.

Conclude the letter by succinctly summarizing why an employer may want to meet and employ you. Include a polite expression of interest in further dialogue with the recruiter. Do mention that you would like the opportunity to discuss your suitability further in a personal interview and that you await a response in due course.

Follow Instructions 

In some cases, an advertisement will indicate that a more substantial letter is required. 

Always follow specific instructions and include any information if it is specifically requested. For instance, some employers may ask you to include your current salary or your desired salary range. 

Make Sure the Letter Reads Well 

Ensure that your CV cover letter flows freely. You do not need to precisely match every point on the job description. The reader should be left with an overall impression that you are a potentially valuable addition to the workforce.

The letter should be readable and engaging. 

Negative information of any sort should be avoided in your cover letter, as well as on your CV.

You'll want to be sure your letter is free from grammar or spelling errors. It should also be clearly presented—that means using standard formatting, and common  readable fonts  (such as Times New Roman or Verdana) in an appropriate size. 

This is a cover letter example. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Depending on the employer's submission requirements, cover letters can be submitted online with your CV, uploaded online, or mailed. Be sure to follow the application instructions and follow the directions on how to apply. Consider this template for how to structure your letter: 

Belinda Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 belinda.applicant@gmail.com

October 25, 2021

Clark Lee, PhD Biology Department Chair Northwestern University 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Dr, Lee:

I am writing to apply for the position of assistant professor in the Biology department, as described in the Northern University website. The opportunity to teach biology appeals to me, and I believe I can be an asset to the department due to my experience as a field biologist, as well as my work as an adjunct professor at Southern State University. In accordance with your job description, I have the following skills:

• Experience lecturing to large audiences

• Experience with learning management systems and course design

• Ability to assist with labs for other professors

• Experience with grant writing and research

I have enclosed my curriculum vitae so you may examine my work and research experience, the papers I’ve published, and my educational background.

I can be reached anytime by email at Belinda.applicant@gmail.com or my cell phone, 555-555-5555. Thank you so much for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this position.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Belinda Applicant

When you are sending your cover letter by email, list your contact information in your signature rather than at the top of the letter. List your name and the job title in the subject line of the message. 

Here are more examples of cover letters that you can use as a starting point for your own correspondence.

StandOut CV

How to write a cover letter for your CV

Andrew Fennell photo

If you want to land the best jobs, you need to accompany your CV with a strong cover letter.

In this guide, I will show you how to write a cover letter that will get you noticed by employers and ensure you land plenty of interviews.

Starting with a basic overview…

To write an effective cover letter you must:

  • Apply a professional format and layout
  • Address the recipient by name
  • Explain why you are suitable for the job you are applying for
  • Explain why you are applying for the job
  • Encourage the recruiter to open your CV

What is a cover letter?

Before you delve into this guide, it’s important to understand what a cover letter is, and what it’s purpose is.

Having a good understanding of these 2 factors will help you to create a really effective cover letter.

A cover letter is simply an introductory note which you send to recruiters and employers, when sending your CV

Here’s an example of a typical cover letter

How to write a cover letter example

What’s the purpose of a cover letter?

The purpose of your cover letter is to do the following 3 things;

  • Introduce yourself
  • Build rapport with the recruiter or employer
  • Encourage them to open your CV

Cover letter format

Before you start to write your cover letter, you need to understand the basics of formatting one, and the structure to follow.

Using the correct format will ensure that your cover letter is easy for busy recruiters to read, and that you can highlight the important information that they want to see.

Use the following tips to format and layout your CV for best results.

Write your cover letter in the body of your message or email

The number one cover letter formatting rule to remember is, write your cover letter in the body of your email (or messaging box if you are sending via a job website ).

Cover letter formatting tip

Never attach your cover letter as a separate document.

You want your cover letter to be instantly visible to recruiters and employers, form the moment they open your application.

If you attach it separately, you simply slowing down the process, and run the risk of having your application ignored (especially if it takes a long time for the document to open).

So, always write your cover letter in the body of your application message if you want to make an instant connection with the recipient.

Quick tip: If you are writing your cover letter in an email, use an eye-catching subject line that tailors your skills to the jobs. E.g. Developer with 5 years web app experience

CV builder

Cover letter layout

Every cover letter will be different of course, but try to stick to this basic layout as much as possible, in order to provide the right information, in a logical order.

This will help you to build rapport with readers, and sell yourself to them in the short window of their attention you have.

Start by addressing the recipient

The first thing you need to do in your cover letter, is address the person you are approaching.

Cover letter greeting

Follow with a friendly greeting

You want to appear professional when applying for jobs, but you also need to be friendly and personable.

So, follow with a friendly greeting such as;

  • Hope you’re well
  • I hope this email finds you well

Always remember that your message will be read by a real person, and they will appreciate being treated well.

Explain which job you are applying for

Once you’ve greeted and warmed up the recruiter with a friendly opening, it’s time to get to the point.

Let the recruiter know exactly which job you are applying for.

Cover letter job

Remember that some recruiters will be working scores of vacancies, so be as specific as you can.

Explain why you are suitable for the job

In the body of your cover letter, you should provide a brief explanation of what makes you suitable for the job you are applying for.

This is ultimately what will encourage a recruiter or hiring manager to open your CV .

Cover letter sell yourself

I will cover how to do this in more detail in the “W hat to include in a cover letter ” section of the guide.

Sign off in a friendly and professional manner

Remembering that your cover letter is a means of communication with the person receiving it – sign off in a friendly yet professional way.

Use a term like;

  • Kind regards
  • Look forward to hearing from you

Finish with a professional signature

Finally, at the very bottom of your cover letter, add a professional signature .

This will ensure it looks professional, and provide the reader with instant access to your contact details.

Signature for cover letter

Quick tip: If you are writing a cover letter in email, format your signature to make it look extra-professional, and save it as your default signature for all of your outgoing mails.

How to start a cover letter

To start a cover letter, you should always aim to address the recipient by name – this is the best way to start building rapport.

How to start a cover letter

But you are probably thinking, “How do I find their name??”

There are a few ways you can find the name of the person handling the vacancy

  • On the job advert – sometimes the name and email address will be on the job advert itself
  • Company website – If you’re applying directly to a company, you can often find the recruitment team or head of department on the company About us section
  • LinkedIn – If you can determine the company and team for the vacancy, a search on LinkedIn can often uncover the most likely person to be handling the applications.

“What if I can’t find a name?”

If you can’t find a name, don’t panic – you won’t always be able to.

Simply address the recruiter with the word “Hi” – that’s all you can do in that instance.

Don’t use the phrase “ Dear sir or madam” – It’s very old-fashioned and impersonal.

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be short and sweet.

The purpose of a cover letter, is simply to persuade recruiters to open your CV, so it doesn’t need to be long .

You only need 3 – 6 sentences to write a good cover letter.

You have to bear in mind that recruiters and hiring managers are busy people, so you need to move them on to opening your CV quickly – or you might lose their attention.

What to include in a cover letter

The content you include in your cover letter will determine whether or not the recruiter is impressed by you, and if they will go on to open your CV.

So, it’s crucial that you include the information they want to see.

Here’s what to include…

Firstly, read the job advert properly

Before you start writing your cover letter, you must ensure that you understand what the recruiter wants from applicants.

Study the job advert carefully, and pick out the most important candidate requirements.

What to include in a cover letter

Focus mainly on hard skills such as languages, IT systems, industry experience etc.

Don’t focus on personal skills (such as adaptability, teamwork etc,) as they are needed for most jobs and won’t make you stand out.

Once you know what the recruiter wants from a successful candidate, try to reflect those attributes when writing the below points.

Industry skills

If you’re an experienced candidate, employers will mainly be interested in the work you have done in your industry, tools you are familiar with, type of projects you have worked on etc. so make these a focal point of your cover letter.

If you are less experienced (like a graduate or school leaver) focus on adding transferable skills from your studies, that can be carried over to the workplace.

Length of experience

Recruiters will need to know how much experience you have.

  • Are you a graduate?
  • Senior with 15 years of experience?

Qualifications

If the role you are applying for requires certain qualifications, then it’s crucial to mention them in your cover letter.

However, if the job advert doesn’t ask for them, or you simply know qualifications aren’t important to perform the role – then you can leave them out.

What you are currently doing

Recruiters will want to know what your current situation is, so be sure to inform them.

  • Are you currently working in a similar role?
  • Have you just left school?
  • Are you immediately available, or do you have to work notice?

Your motivation for applying

One question that recruiters will often ask when they receive an application is, “ why is this person applying for the role ?”

And you need to answer that question in your cover letter.

Your reasons for applying should be positive, and suggest that you are looking to make a firm commitment to the employer.

Do write:  “After spending 2 years as senior manager at my current firm, I am looking to take a step up to manage a bigger team in a more specialist market”

Don’t write:  “ I’ve recently been fired from my old job, so I need a new one quickly”

Results you’ve achieved for employers

If you’re an experienced candidate, it’s a good idea to allude to the kind of results you have achieved for your current or previous employers.

Maybe you have;

  • Saved them money
  • Brought on new customers
  • Improved processes
  • Made plenty of sales

Only give an overview in your cover letter to keep things brief – save the detail for your CV .

How to end a cover letter

To end a cover letter , you should do 2 things; provide a strong call-to-action, and sign of professionally.

Provide a strong call to action

What is a call to action?

It’s simply a request to the reader to take a specific action…

In the case of your cover letter, the action you want the recruiter to take is open your CV.

So it can be helpful to write a line like,

“Please find my CV attached” near the bottom of your cover letter, to encourage readers to do so.

Sign off professionally

Finish your cover letter with a friendly term such as, “kind regards” followed by your name.

Then add a professional signature to the bottom, like the one below;

This makes the cover letter look professional and ensures that recruiters have;

  • Your full name
  • Phone number
  • Email address

Cover letter samples

To give you some ideas and inspiration for writing your cover letter, here are 6  example cover letters .

Customer service cover letter

Customer service cover letter

Applying for customer service roles.

This customer service cover letter is short and to-the-point – it quickly delivers a host of reasons why this candidate would be valuable in a customer service role.

See also: sales assistant cover letter example

Finance cover letter

Finance cover letter

Applying for finance and accounting roles.

This cover letter outlines the candidate’s finance knowledge, and how they could apply it in the workplace

Graduate cover letter

Graduate cover letter

Applying for graduate/student roles.

Graduate’s cover letters are a little longer than most, as they don’t have as much experience, so need to describe their education and transferable skills.

Sales cover letter

Sales cover letter

Applying for sales roles.

This cover letter boasts the candidate’s ability to make sales and drive revenue.

Project management cover letter

Project manager cover letter

Applying for Project manager roles.

An overview of the candidate’s project manager skills and the types of projects they deliver, are enough to entice recruiters here.

Teacher cover letter

Teacher cover letter

Applying for teaching roles.

This teacher cover letter provides a brief synopsis of the candidate’s teaching abilities and the types of lessons they teach.

Cover letter mistakes

When writing your cover letter, be sure to avoid some of these common mistakes…

Don’t attach your cover letter as a separate document

You want the contents of your cover letter to instantly greet and connect with the recruiter opening it – so attaching it as separate document will slow that process down.

It doesn’t make sense to attach it as a separate document when you can write in the body of your email or message.

Don’t write a whole side of A4

Your cover letter should be a brief introduction and overview of your suitability for the job.

If you write too much, you risk boring the reader and they might skip past your application.

Save the in-depth details for your CV.

Don’t copy and paste the same cover letter

When your applying for lots of jobs, it can be tempting to simply copy and paste your cover letter into every application.

Whilst this will save you time, it will have a negative effect on your applications.

If you don’t take the time to tailor your cover letter for every job, it’s likely that you will miss some of the key requirements for each job, and therefore you will not make as good as impression as you could have.

It’s OK to work from a template, to keep the structure and some important points that you might repeat for most applications – but always tailor each cover letter to the job spec, for best results.

Don’t use “Dear sir or Madam”

This greeting many have worked well in the 1800’s, but it’s dated and impersonal now.

A simple “Hi” is a friendly and professional way to start your cover letter nowadays.

How to write a cover letter – conclusion

Your cover letter is a crucial tool in the quest to land interviews in the job market.

If you follow the advice above, you should be able to create a concise and powerful cover letter that will excite recruiters, and take you one step closer to landing that dream job

Good luck with your job search!

500+ Cover Letter Examples and How to Get Yours Right

Learn from real professional cover letter examples for 500+ different job titles. These cover letter samples will guide you through writing your own cover letter for your dream job.

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What is a cover letter and what does it contain

A cover letter is a letter of introduction that you attach to your resume when you apply for a job. Oftentimes, job ads call it a covering letter, letter of motivation, or a letter of introduction – it’s all the same thing.

Ideally, you should aim at half-page to full-page . Its purpose is to introduce you to a potential employer and tell an inspiring story of your career and why you should be their next hire. Here’s a full guide on cover letter length that we’ve prepared.

A good cover letter can be separated into five different segments : salutation, opener, body, call to action, and closer . When appropriate, you can cover any gaps in employment, your availability, and if you’re ready to relocate.

Now, let’s dig deeper into the sections that a good cover letter includes .

Share your own contact details along with the recipient's contact information.

Introduce yourself and state the purpose of your letter. The salutation shows respect to the recipient and is tailored to the individual, if possible, to add a personal touch.

Elaborate on your qualifications, experience, and skills related to the job. This section is the core of your cover letter, offering compelling evidence of why you're the ideal candidate for the position.

Reiterate your interest, sign-off and request a follow-up.

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Marketing cover letter examples

Move up the ladder in your marketing career with a cover letter that grabs the recruiting manager’s heart. Find your position below and take a closer look into how you should build your marketing cover letter with an example below.

  • Creative Marketing
  • Social Media Manager
  • Digital Marketing Intern
  • Product Marketing Manager
  • Marketing Director
  • Social Media Specialist

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Medical cover letter examples

Show your true medical potential with the power of a well-structured, professional cover letter. Choose from one of our custom-made examples and make a cover letter that gets you the job.

  • Dental Hygienist
  • Critical Care Nurse
  • Medical Sales
  • Medical Scribe
  • Medical Receptionist
  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Physical Therapist
  • Radiologic Technologist
  • Dental Assistant
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Nursing Assistant
  • Registered Nurse
  • Respiratory Therapist
  • Paraprofessional
  • Physician Assistant
  • Esthetician
  • Massage Therapist
  • Medical Assistant
  • Medical Technologist
  • Patient Service Representative
  • Travel Nurse
  • Phlebotomist
  • Certified Medical Assistant
  • Cosmetologist
  • Home Health Aide
  • Nurse Practitioner
  • Pharmaceutical Sales Rep
  • Nursing Student
  • Charge Nurse
  • Health Coach
  • Hospital Volunteer
  • Veterinary Technician

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Education cover letter examples

Let your academic accomplishments speak for themselves. Choose a cover letter template around education and focus on the important things by following our templates.

  • University Faculty
  • Math Teacher
  • Resident Assistant
  • School Counselor
  • Research Associate
  • Elementary Teacher
  • Special Education Teacher
  • Teacher Assistant
  • Substitute Teacher
  • Preschool Teacher
  • High School Teacher
  • Student Teacher
  • Art Teacher
  • Campus Director

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Operations cover letter examples

The world goes around thanks to operations specialists. Communicate you vision for the future with potential employers and focus on how you can help the company you’re applying at grow.

  • Executive Assistant
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Director Of Operations
  • Forklift Operator
  • Office Assistant
  • Office Administrator
  • Project Coordinator
  • Quality Control
  • Security Officer
  • Case Manager
  • School Bus Driver
  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Test Engineer
  • Event Planner
  • Service Advisor
  • Personal Assistant
  • Delivery driver
  • Administrator
  • Qa Automation
  • Financial Accountant
  • Operations Manager
  • Database Analyst
  • Procurement
  • Event Coordinator

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Hospitality cover letter examples

Working in the hospitality industry requires calm, focus, and perseverance. Tell your story to employers by following our time-proven cover letter templates and get that new job.

  • Restaurant Manager
  • Hospitality
  • Food Service

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Construction & maintenance cover letter examples

Build your cover letter using one of our cover letter templates around the construction and maintenance industry. Focus on your strengths and let our cover letter builder do the job.

  • Architectural Designer
  • Maintenance Technician

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Entertainment cover letter examples

Focus on your capabilities and let your character shine through one of the cover letter examples below.

  • Video Producer
  • Game Design
  • Motion Graphics
  • Film Production
  • Cinematographer
  • Makeup Artist
  • Audio Engineer

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Finance & banking cover letter examples

Sum up your skills and experience and show employers your character with a professional cover letter. Just follow one of the examples below and you’ll be on your way to a new job.

  • Finance Director
  • Accounts Clerk

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Human resources cover letter examples

Spend time communicating your HR skills and experience. Just pick a cover letter example that matches your job and follow the instructions in the article.

  • Talent Acquisition Manager
  • Recruiting Coordinator
  • HR Business Partner
  • Hr Generalist
  • Human Resources
  • Program Coordinator
  • Assistant Manager
  • Hr Assistant

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IT & software engineering cover letter examples

Show how serious you are about your future and career growth with a well-written cover letter. Pick one of the job matching examples below and just follow our guidelines.

  • Full Stack Developer
  • Software Engineering Intern
  • Software Developer

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C-Level management cover letter examples

Cover letters are a great way to communicate the way you think and how you see the future. Pick a template that’s made for your position and use our cover letter builder to make yours shine.

  • Chief Of Staff
  • Vice President
  • Managing Director

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Project management cover letter examples

Tell the story of how you make ideas into real-life products thanks to your project management skills. Choose an example that’s made for your job position and build your cover letter.

  • Program Manager
  • Communications
  • IT Project Manager
  • Technical Project Manager
  • Scrum Master
  • Project Manager

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Science cover letter examples

A cover letter can help you tell your story and make your resume that much better. Choose one of our science-related cover letter examples and make yours shine.

  • Lab Technician

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Engineering cover letter examples

Present your love for making concepts a reality. Click on an engineering cover letter example that’s made for your position and follow the guide. You’ll be sure to build a cover letter that makes you stand out.

  • Entry Level Civil Engineer
  • Chemical Engineer
  • Process Engineer
  • Industrial Engineer

Sales cover letter examples

Use a cover letter to impress hiring managers with your story. Show your understanding of human psychology by using a cover letter on top of your resume. Just pick a cover letter example and follow the guide.

  • Vice President of Sales
  • Sales Representative
  • Sales Manager
  • Head of Sales
  • Entry Level Sales
  • Director Of Sales
  • Regional Sales Manager
  • Vp Of Sales
  • Car Salesman
  • Sales Consultant
  • Sales Director
  • Sales Associate
  • Sales And Marketing
  • Sales Engineer
  • Sales Person
  • Insurance Sales
  • Outside Sales
  • Sales Analyst
  • Supply Chain
  • Inside Sales
  • Sales Coordinator

Business development cover letter examples

Your expertise is everything when it comes to business development positions. Focus on your skills and tie them in with your accomplishments – just pick a cover letter example that suits your position.

  • General Manager
  • Business Analyst
  • Business Development
  • Business Development Manager
  • Business Intelligence
  • Management Consultant
  • Office Manager
  • Tableau Business Analyst
  • Account Director
  • Digital Director
  • Director Of Business Development
  • Vp Business Development
  • Salesforce Business Analyst
  • Department Head
  • Strategy Consultant

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Retail cover letter examples

Create a cover letter that gets you remembered. Pick a cover letter example from the retail industry and make a job application that gets you remembered.

  • Warehouse Manager
  • Inventory Manager
  • Warehouse Associate
  • Warehouse Worker
  • Store Manager

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Legal cover letter examples

Applying for a job in the legal industry with a cover letter is almost always a must. Pick a cover letter example that fits your needs and get to writing.

  • Accounts Payable
  • Audit Manager
  • Legal Assistant
  • Law Enforcement

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Customer relationship management cover letter examples

Show your experience in handling client-related issues with a well-written cover letter. Focus on your skills and tie in your accomplishments with what the company you’re applying to needs.

  • Technical Account Manager
  • Account Executive
  • Customer Success Manager
  • Customer Service Associate
  • Call Center Representative
  • Customer Service Representative
  • Account Manager
  • Customer Service Manager

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Real estate cover letter examples

Show your talent in finding, marketing, and selling homes quickly. Use one of your cover letter examples and build yours in minutes.

  • Interior Designer
  • Real Estate Agent
  • Property Manager
  • Interior Design
  • Lending Manager
  • Real Estate Portfolio Manager

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Innovation management cover letter examples

There’s no better way to communicate your experience and vision for the future than using a cover letter – choose an example and just follow the instructions.

  • Business consultant cover letter examples
  • Network administrator cover letter examples
  • Change management cover letter examples
  • Innovation engineer cover letter examples
  • Innovation Specialist
  • Supply Chain Manager

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Product management cover letter examples

Your work makes a company tick. Tell your experience in building products with a cover letter that adds to your resume.

  • Product Owner
  • Procurement Manager
  • Product Manager
  • Production Coordinator

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Transportation cover letter examples

Focus on accomplishments and skills while you’re writing your cover letter. Tie it in with the needs of the company you’re applying for.

  • Truck Driver

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Data cover letter examples

Your ability to work with data is valuable to most modern companies. Show them a story-driven cover letter and get the hiring manager’s attention by simply following one of the guides below.

  • Data Analyst Entry Level
  • Business Data Analyst

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Investment cover letter examples

What makes a good investment? You know it, so show it in a cover letter that matches your resume. Follow our guide below and create a cover letter that stands out.

Cover letter salutation

Writing the proper cover letter salutation is about 50% of the struggle. Nothing seems appropriate. The time-proven, trusty cover letter salutations seem a bit cliché and outdated.

The secret to writing a suitable greeting is to be relevant. Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Do I know who the hiring manager/recruiter is?
  • Did someone recommend me the job?
  • Have I communicated with the recruiter before?

If you can answer one out of these three questions with “yes” , then feel free to use the recruiter’s name in the salutation. And if you feel like it’s inappropriate to call the hiring manager by name, rest assured, it’s absolutely alright. It shows that you’ve done your research, and people love it when someone’s put in the effort.

Good cover letter greetings to use when you know who the hiring manager is, include:

  • Dear [Last Name],
  • Dear [First and Last Name],
  • Dear Dr. [Last Name],
  • Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms [Last Name],

With that being said, “Dear” is as professional as you get in the world of cover letter salutations. However, if you’re applying for a job position in a creative agency where competition is fierce, and you need a cover letter to stand out, but the overall vibe is far more relaxed, feel free to start your cover letter with “Hello”.

If you have no idea who’ll be reading your letter of motivation , you can use a generic greeting. They’re far less enticing, but they get the job done. Generic cover letter salutations include:

Dear Hiring Manager,

  • Dear [Job Position],

Bad example

Good example, cover letter opening.

A cover letter opening paragraph has one purpose – hook the reader, so they read your letter all the way through. That’s why you should keep the first sentence fairly short and straight to the point.

Here’s an example of a good opening:

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Summarize your biggest professional achievement in a single sentence. Show the impact you’ve had at your previous job. This makes it clear to the recruiter that you mean business.

Length-wise, the opening paragraph of your covering letter shouldn’t be longer than two sentences. If you’re into writing, the opening paragraph is your hook sentence. 😉

Cover letter body paragraphs

The body of the cover letter is the longest section. It consists of three to four paragraphs telling the story of your professional life.

Keep in mind that there’s a fine line between rephrasing what’s on your resume and writing a good cover letter . Remember this:

Your best bet is to thoroughly research the company you’re applying to. Check their website, social media, PR coverage, and even their Crunchbase profile to see if they’ve had recent funding rounds.

Try to identify possible problems they may be facing and direct your cover letter in the directions of how you and your skill set can help them. Speak through your actions and results.

Don’t just say you’re good at something – prove it.

Cover letter call to action

A call to action is a vital and strategic part of any cover letter. It’s important to phrase it in a way that shows your excitement for the position but isn’t too pushy on the hiring manager.

Put yourself in the reader’s shoes. They’ve read your letter this far. The recruiter knows that you’ve done the research. They can see you’re a great fit, so don’t leave them hanging – give them the next steps.

Here’s an example of a great cover letter call to action:

A rule of thumb to follow in the call to action is to make it all about the company and not yourself.

Cover letter closer

Now that you know how to craft a great call-to-action sentence, it’s time to talk about the closer.

To be exact, we’re talking about the complimentary close. As a cover letter requires a degree of formality, it’s best to keep the complementary close simple. Here’s a list of our favorites that you can use:

  • Respectfully,

Followed by an empty line and your first and last name.

On another note, if you’re applying at a company where you know the hiring manager or the overall culture is informal, you can opt for a more relaxed complimentary close. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • Warm regards
  • Yours truly
  • Have a wonderful day

Keep in mind that those should be saved for the right occasion, and we recommend going with a more professional closer . If you aren’t sure, nothing beats a “Thank you,”. 🙂

Creatives are among the most sought-after employees. They’re usually the people who come up with original ideas that give companies a competitive advantage. In the cover letter above, Jack has done a great job explaining his background in gender advocacy, social issues, and political science – all venues much needed in modern-day companies.

Furthermore, Jack has a detailed explanation of how he can help the company, focusing on solid examples and channels he considers to be his strengths. From social media to analytics, he’s done a great job of helping the hiring manager picture Jack as one of the team.

Finally, the call to action and closing paragraphs are spot on, giving the hiring manager a nudge to give him a call.

Career change cover letter example

My name is Nicholas and for the past 5 years, I’ve been the general manager for Coffi&Biscuits where I managed to increase the YoY revenue of the shop 10x in the past three years.

I was excited to see the Business Development Manager position for Bootstrap IO, as it is a career change that I’m looking forward to making.

Managing a team of 15 taught me a lot about budgeting, planning, and organizing the workload. I can help you with expanding your team in the next quarter and reach your goal of launching your new product across the United States.

I’d love to jump on a Zoom meeting with you to further discuss joining the team. I’m available at your disposal.

Nicholas Costa

Why this career change cover letter is good

Taking a closer look at Nicholas’ cover letter, you’ll see that he was concise, went straight to the point, and most importantly explained how his current skill will help the company grow.

Writing a career change cover letter is all about showing the hiring manager how your skills can help them overcome challenges the business is facing.

Nicholas has done a great job explaining his skills. Furthermore, he’s done the research and knows what the future plans of the company are.

His call to action section further drives the point that he’s convinced of his skills and that he can help the company.

You can use this cover letter when:

  • You want a new job in a field unrelated to your current one.
  • When you want to apply for an internal position in another department.

Entry-level cover letter example

I am applying for the position of Drug Research Specialist (Entry Level) that I came across at PANDA Corp. I believe that my academic experience matches your requirements.

During my studies, I have gained experience in the field of medicine and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, during my master’s program, I’ve completed my diploma in Pharmaceutical Research, which helped me in better understanding the processes and best practices in drug development.

Additionally, under the ImunoHelp program, I have undergone various professional and self-development training. Each training permanently added to my skill set.

Having spent the last seven years of my life outside the United States, my home country has made me multicultural. My vibrant experience traveling and studying at different institutions, in UAE, USA, Portugal, and France have undoubtedly contributed to my open-mindedness, creativity, and adaptability, as well as working in a diverse and multilingual team.

I’m excited to have the opportunity to discuss how my skills can help your company grow. I’m available for an interview at your convenience.

Anna Kendrick

Why this entry-level cover letter example is good

When you’re applying for an entry-level position, there’s a high chance that you’ll be competing with a lot of people that don’t have a lot of experience on their resume.

Most likely, you’re about to graduate, and you’re looking for your first job. Taking a look at Anna’s cover letter, you can immediately see that she’s focusing on her studies.

When you’re writing a cover letter for an entry-level position , focusing on your strengths is vital – after all, the hiring managers know that you won’t have years of experience behind your back. That’s why you have to show your strengths. Add what you’ve studied, any additional courses or training that you’ve been a part of, with a focus on what you’ve learned there.

General cover letter example

Dear Mr John,

I was pleased to see you're hiring for the barista position at Grey Raven Coffee Bar. As an experienced barista with 6 years of professional experience I’m confident that I would be a valuable asset to Grey Raven and the local community you serve.

I’m recently left my job at one of New York's biggest coffee bars, where I’ve honed my barista skills and even won a few competitions. While employed here, I have successfully managed to work in a bustling environment, serving more than 2,000 clients per day.

I’m confident that my excellent work ethic, unparalleled attention to detail, and knack for delicious coffee-based drinks will make me an immediate asset at Grey Raven, and allow me to contribute to the team’s success.

I look forward to discussing the barista position and my qualifications with you in more detail. I’m available to talk at your soonest convenience. I’ll be in touch next week to follow up, just to make sure you’ve received my application.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Cindy Parker

Why this general cover letter example is good

The general cover letter example is perfect if you’re an applicant that has some experience, or you just need a template to send out to a few jobs that you’ve applied for.

Copy the example above, change the name and accomplishments with yours and you’re ready to go. Just remember to personalize each cover letter to the job position you’re applying for.

Executive cover letter example

For the past 6 years, I've been successfully leading ACME Agency and increased YoY revenue by 150% every year for the past 4 years.

As the CEO of a creative agency, I think I have the skillset and vision needed to turn your agency into a market leader by partnering with top companies like Unilever, Google, and Apple.

I'm experienced in both company and franchise brand building. I build and lead high-performance teams that work both in online and offline campaigns.

Former employers will confirm, that I am a passionate leader who is hands-on when it comes to working smart and hard I am self-motivated and a highly dependable individual that is confident and culturally diverse.

I am a great communicator and I can convey information to anyone, regardless of where they are in the company hierarchy.

Whether monitoring performance, improving strategic plans, or managing the entire life-cycle of a project or product development, my references would confer that I exceed expectations by practicing the greatest level of expertise with professionalism whilst always being customer-centric.

Should you grant me an interview will be in a position to discuss in detail, how my skill set can be utilized to grow your business. I believe that your company is intent on reflecting positive growth and profitability and it would be my pleasure to actively contribute to the company’s future.

Kind Regards,

Nicholas Jasbin

Why this executive cover letter example is good

Nicholas goes above and beyond in describing his accomplishments and his soft skills in communication and management. He begins his cover letter directly with an accomplishment statement that will make him stand out from other applicants.

Further down, Nicholas collaborates on his experience working with large companies and building teams.

Intern cover letter example

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I am writing to apply for the internship position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board or Company Website]. As a motivated and aspiring [field of interest] professional, I am eager to gain practical experience and contribute to the success of your organization.

Throughout my academic journey in [relevant field of study], I have developed a strong foundation in [key skills or knowledge areas relevant to the internship]. I am excited to apply these skills in a real-world setting and further enhance my understanding of [specific area or industry]. Some highlights of my qualifications include:

[Relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate skills or knowledge]

[Extracurricular activities or volunteer work that showcase relevant experience or leadership]

[Technical skills or tools proficiency]

I am drawn to [Company Name] because of its reputation for [specific aspects of the company, such as innovation, community impact, or industry leadership]. I am particularly inspired by [specific projects, initiatives, or values of the company] and believe that my passion and dedication align well with your organization's goals.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to learn to the internship role. I have attached my resume for your review, and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and background make me an excellent fit for [Company Name]. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and learning from the talented professionals at [Company Name].

[Your Name]

Why is this a good cover letter:

College graduate cover letter example.

I am writing to express my interest in joining IBM as a [specific position]. As a recent graduate from [Your University] with a degree in [Your Major] and practical work experience, I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to IBM's innovative and forward-thinking environment.

During my time at [Your University], I gained a solid foundation in programming, data analysis, and software development. My coursework and projects have allowed me to develop proficiency in languages such as Python, Java, and SQL. I have also honed my skills in Agile methodologies, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products within tight deadlines.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have gained valuable experience through internships and part-time roles. As a [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], I worked on a team that developed a data-driven solution to optimize inventory management for a major retailer. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration, effective communication, and critical thinking when tackling complex challenges.

IBM's commitment to creating innovative solutions and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development aligns with my passion for technology and personal growth. I am confident that my academic background, work experience, and dedication to excellence make me a strong candidate for a role at IBM.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences can contribute to IBM's continued success and growth.

Middle management cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in the Middle Management position at Planet Fitness. With over [number of years] years of experience in the fitness industry and a proven track record in team leadership and operations management, I am confident in my ability to drive results and contribute positively to Planet Fitness's success.

As the [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], I led a team of [number] professionals, consistently surpassing performance targets and increasing customer satisfaction rates. My hands-on approach to team development and focus on continuous improvement enabled us to achieve a 20% increase in membership retention over two years.

My background in [relevant field, e.g., business administration] and passion for health and wellness have equipped me with the skills to efficiently manage budgets, streamline operations, and maintain a safe and welcoming environment for members and staff alike.

Planet Fitness's commitment to providing an inclusive, judgement-free atmosphere aligns with my values, and I am excited to contribute to the growth and development of both the team and the organization. I look forward to discussing how my experience and skills can benefit Planet Fitness in the Middle Management role.

Dear Graduate Admissions Committee,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the PhD program in Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. As a highly motivated individual with a passion for research and innovation, I am confident that my academic background and relevant experience make me an excellent candidate for this prestigious program.

I hold a Master's degree in [Your Major] from [Your University], where I graduated with honors. During my graduate studies, I conducted research on [specific research topic], leading to the publication of [number] peer-reviewed articles in reputable journals. This experience has fostered my ability to think critically, analyze complex problems, and communicate my findings effectively.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have gained practical experience through internships and research assistantships in leading engineering firms and labs. These experiences have allowed me to develop a strong foundation in [specific engineering skills, e.g., computational modeling, prototype development, etc.] and collaborate with diverse teams to drive innovation and solve real-world challenges.

UC Berkeley's renowned engineering program, with its focus on cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration, aligns with my research interests and career aspirations. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to work with esteemed faculty members and contribute to ongoing projects within the [specific research area] at Berkeley.

I am eager to join the UC Berkeley community and contribute to its tradition of excellence in research and education. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further.

A cover letter for a PhD position emphasizes the candidate's research accomplishments, potential, and alignment with the university's program. It highlights their eagerness to contribute to the academic community.

Gaps in employment cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in joining your esteemed Digital Marketing agency in the capacity of [specific position]. As a highly motivated and adaptable professional with diverse experience in marketing, I am confident that my skills and passion make me an excellent candidate for this role, despite the employment gaps in my resume.

During the time away from full-time employment, I have been actively engaged in freelance work and continued learning to keep up-to-date with the latest marketing trends and technologies. I have completed courses in SEO, content marketing, and social media management, which have allowed me to maintain and enhance my expertise in the field.

My prior experience includes working as a [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], where I managed multi-channel marketing campaigns, optimized web content for SEO, and collaborated with cross-functional teams to achieve company objectives. As a result, we experienced a 25% increase in organic search traffic and a 15% growth in online sales.

I have a proven track record of creating and executing effective digital marketing strategies, and I am well-versed in tools such as Google Analytics, AdWords, and various social media platforms. My ability to analyze data and drive informed decisions will be invaluable in driving results for your agency and its clients.

I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to your organization and build upon my career in digital marketing. I appreciate your consideration of my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further.

A cover letter addressing employment gaps focuses on the candidate's skill development and industry knowledge during the gap period. It highlights their relevant experience and accomplishments, while expressing their eagerness to contribute to the organization.

  • Demonstrates the candidate's ability to drive results for the agency and its clients

Temporary-to-permanent employee cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in transitioning from a temporary to a permanent employee at Jacksonville High School. Over the course of my temporary assignment as a [Specific Position], I have had the privilege of contributing to the school's mission and growth, and I am excited about the prospect of continuing to do so in a long-term capacity.

Throughout my time at Jacksonville High School, I have been actively involved in various aspects of [Specific Position's Responsibilities], including [examples of tasks or initiatives, e.g., curriculum development, student mentorship, or extracurricular activities]. I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of these initiatives on the students, and I am committed to making an even greater contribution to their academic and personal growth.

My experience at Jacksonville High School has allowed me to develop strong relationships with faculty, staff, and students. I have honed my communication and collaboration skills, enabling me to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams to achieve common goals. My dedication to excellence and my passion for education make me an ideal candidate for a permanent role at the school.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked at Jacksonville High School on a temporary basis, and I am eager to continue contributing to the school's mission and success as a permanent team member. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to discussing my candidacy further.

A cover letter for a temporary-to-permanent position emphasizes the candidate's contributions during the temporary assignment and their commitment to the organization's mission. It demonstrates their eagerness to make a lasting impact in a permanent role.

Volunteer cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering at Soul Soup Kitchen in New York City. As a compassionate individual with a strong commitment to community service, I am eager to contribute my time and skills to help support the mission of providing nutritious meals to those in need.

I have experience volunteering in various roles and capacities, including [specific examples of previous volunteer work, e.g., organizing food drives, mentoring underprivileged youth, etc.]. These experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, teamwork, and adaptability when working within a dynamic and diverse community setting.

In addition to my background in volunteer work, I possess valuable skills that would be beneficial to Soul Soup Kitchen. As a [your profession or specific skill set, e.g., professional chef, nutritionist, or event coordinator], I am confident that my expertise can help enhance the quality of the meals and services provided to the individuals who rely on your organization.

I am excited about the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need and to support the vital work being done at Soul Soup Kitchen. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experiences can contribute to the ongoing success of your organization.

Thank you for considering my application.

A cover letter for a volunteer position showcases the candidate's compassion and commitment to community service. It highlights their relevant skills and experiences and conveys their enthusiasm for making a positive impact on those in need.

Unemployed person cover letter example

I am writing to express my strong interest in the [specific position] at [Company Name]. As an experienced professional with a diverse skill set and a passion for [Industry], I am confident that my background and dedication make me an excellent candidate for this role, despite my current unemployed status.

During my time away from full-time employment, I have been actively engaged in professional development and skill-building, ensuring that I remain up-to-date with industry trends and technologies. I have completed courses in [relevant skills or certifications], which have allowed me to enhance my expertise and maintain my competitiveness in the job market.

My prior experience includes working as a [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], where I [specific accomplishments and responsibilities, e.g., managed a team of X professionals, increased sales by X%, etc.]. This experience has allowed me to develop strong [relevant skills, e.g., leadership, project management, communication, etc.] that I am eager to apply to a new role at [Company Name].

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and knowledge to your organization and continue my career growth in the [Industry] field. I appreciate your consideration of my application and look forward to the chance to discuss my candidacy further.

A cover letter for an unemployed candidate addresses their current employment status while focusing on their skills, expertise, and industry knowledge. It emphasizes their relevant experience and eagerness to contribute to the organization.

Networking cover letter example

I recently had the pleasure of attending the UX/UI Design conference, where I learned about your creative agency and the exciting work you do in the field of user experience and user interface design. I was particularly impressed by [specific project or aspect discussed at the conference], and I am writing to express my interest in exploring potential opportunities to collaborate or contribute to your team.

As a passionate UX/UI designer with experience in [specific areas of expertise, e.g., user research, wireframing, prototyping, etc.], I have worked on various projects that have successfully enhanced user experiences and driven business results. My portfolio showcases a range of design solutions that prioritize usability, aesthetics, and functionality.

In addition to my technical skills, I possess strong communication and collaboration abilities, which enable me to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams and ensure that all stakeholders' perspectives are considered in the design process. My dedication to user-centered design and my passion for creating intuitive and engaging digital experiences align with your agency's mission and values.

I would be thrilled to learn more about your team, discuss my background, and explore any potential opportunities to work together. I have attached my resume and portfolio for your review and would welcome the opportunity to connect further.

Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you soon.

A networking cover letter establishes a connection through a shared event or interest and highlights the candidate's skills and experiences. It expresses their interest in exploring potential opportunities to collaborate or contribute to the organization.

Referral cover letter example

I recently had a conversation with [Referrer's Name], who mentioned that your company is seeking a talented financial analyst. As a highly skilled professional in the field of financial analysis, I am excited to express my interest in joining your team and contributing my expertise to [Company Name].

During my tenure as a Financial Analyst at [Previous Company], I played a pivotal role in analyzing financial data, forecasting trends, and developing strategic recommendations for business growth. My strong analytical and quantitative skills have enabled me to identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue generation, resulting in a [percentage] increase in profitability over the past year.

I am well-versed in various financial analysis tools and software, including [specific tools, e.g., Excel, SQL, or Tableau], which have allowed me to efficiently manage large datasets and generate actionable insights for decision-making. My ability to communicate complex financial information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences sets me apart as a valuable asset to any organization.

[Referrer's Name] spoke highly of the collaborative and innovative culture at [Company Name], and I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to your organization. I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to speaking with you soon.

A referral cover letter leverages a personal connection to establish credibility and highlight the candidate's expertise and accomplishments in the field. It expresses their enthusiasm for the company's culture and values.

Cold call cover letter example

I am writing to express my strong interest in a sales position at Amazon. As an accomplished sales professional with a proven track record of driving revenue growth and exceeding targets, I am confident that my skills and passion make me an excellent candidate for your team.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, identify new business opportunities, and close deals effectively. In my most recent role as a Sales Representative at [Previous Company], I was responsible for a [percentage] increase in sales over the course of two years, contributing significantly to the company's overall growth.

My success in sales can be attributed to my deep understanding of customer needs, excellent communication skills, and the ability to adapt my approach to different industries and market conditions. I am well-versed in various sales methodologies and CRM tools, ensuring that I can quickly integrate into your team and make an immediate impact on your bottom line.

I have long admired Amazon for its commitment to innovation and customer-centric approach, and I believe my experience and values align with your organization's mission. Although I am aware that there may not be an open position at this time, I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my skills and background can contribute to Amazon's continued success in the future.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review and look forward to the chance to discuss my candidacy further.

Job not yet posted cover letter example

I recently came across DevArchitects and was thoroughly impressed by your company's portfolio and innovative approach to software development. Although I understand that there may not be an open developer position at this time, I am eager to express my interest in exploring potential opportunities to contribute my skills and expertise to your team.

As a seasoned software developer with over [number of years] of experience in [programming languages, e.g., Java, Python, JavaScript, etc.], I have a proven track record of developing high-quality software solutions for a diverse range of clients and industries. Some highlights of my career include:

Successfully developing and deploying [specific project or application]

Leading a team of developers to complete [specific project or initiative]

Continuously staying updated on the latest industry trends and technologies

My strong analytical and problem-solving skills, coupled with my passion for creating innovative software, make me a valuable asset to any development team. I am confident that my expertise can contribute to the ongoing success and growth of DevArchitects.

I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss any potential opportunities to work together. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and helping DevArchitects continue to excel in the software development industry.

A cover letter for a job that is not yet posted proactively reaches out to a company to express interest in potential opportunities. It highlights the candidate's skills and expertise and demonstrates admiration for the company's work.

  • Expresses admiration for the company's portfolio and innovative approach

Follow-up cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my recent application for the Business Analyst position at [Company Name]. I am eager to reiterate my strong interest in this role and my belief that my skills and experience make me an excellent fit for your team.

Since submitting my application, I have continued to research [Company Name] and have been particularly impressed by [specific project or initiative]. As a Business Analyst with experience in [relevant skills, e.g., data analysis, process improvement, project management, etc.], I am confident that my expertise can contribute to the ongoing success of projects like these at your company. Some key aspects of my background include:

[Specific accomplishment or responsibility from previous position]

Proficiency in [relevant tools or software, e.g., Excel, SQL, or Tableau]

Strong communication and collaboration abilities

I understand that you may be reviewing numerous applications for this position, but I wanted to take a moment to reiterate my enthusiasm for this opportunity and my strong belief that my skills and experiences align with [Company Name]'s values and goals.

Please find my resume attached for your reference, and do not hesitate to reach out if you require any additional information. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you soon.

A follow-up cover letter reiterates the candidate's interest in a position after submitting an initial application. It emphasizes their skills and experience, reaffirms their alignment with the company's values, and demonstrates continued enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Job transfer request cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in transferring to an Operations Manager position within our organization at a different location due to personal reasons for relocation. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at [Current Location] and have learned a great deal, but I believe a move to [New Location] would be beneficial for both my personal and professional growth.

In my current role as Operations Manager, I have successfully managed a team of [number of employees] and implemented process improvements that have led to increased efficiency and cost savings. Some of the key accomplishments during my tenure include:

[Specific accomplishment or responsibility from your current position]

Implementation of [specific project or initiative that led to improvements]

[Any awards or recognitions received within the company]

I am confident that my skills and experience would make me an invaluable asset to the team at [New Location]. I understand that transferring to a new location might involve some challenges, but I am committed to making a seamless transition and maintaining the same level of dedication and performance that I have demonstrated at [Current Location].

I have attached my resume for your review, and I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my request further. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to your response.

A job transfer request letter for relocation expresses the candidate's interest in transferring to a different location within the same organization. It highlights their accomplishments in their current role and demonstrates their commitment to maintaining the same level of performance at the new location.

Promotion or department transfer cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. As a dedicated Compliance Manager at [Company Name], I am writing to express my interest in a promotion or department transfer within our organization. I believe that my skills, experience, and dedication to our company make me an excellent candidate for a new challenge and an opportunity to contribute at an even higher level.

In my current role, I have successfully led a team of compliance professionals, ensuring that our company adheres to regulatory standards and maintains a strong reputation for integrity. Some key accomplishments during my tenure include:

Development and implementation of [specific compliance program or initiative]

I am confident that my expertise in compliance management, combined with my passion for [Company Name]'s mission, would make me a valuable asset in a new role within our organization. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss potential opportunities for promotion or department transfer further.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] in an even greater capacity.

A promotion or department transfer cover letter expresses the candidate's interest in taking on a new challenge within the same organization. It highlights their accomplishments and successes in their current role and demonstrates their commitment to the company's values and goals.

  • Demonstrates a deep understanding of the company's unique approach and goals

Value proposition cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. As an experienced and results-driven Business Developer, I am excited to apply for the opportunity to join Handy, a company that shares my passion for exceptional service and customer satisfaction. With a proven track record of generating new business and creating lasting partnerships, I am confident that I can contribute to the continued growth and success of your organization.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated an ability to identify opportunities, develop innovative strategies, and drive sales growth. My unique value proposition includes:

  • Exceptional relationship-building abilities, fostering trust and collaboration with clients and partners

I am eager to bring my skills, experience, and dedication to excellence to Handy, and help drive the company's expansion and continued success. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how my unique value proposition aligns with your organization's goals and vision.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you soon.

A cover letter with a value proposition clearly communicates the unique benefits that the candidate brings to the company, setting them apart from other applicants. By showcasing their distinct skills, experiences, and accomplishments, the candidate can demonstrate their ability to create tangible results and make a positive impact on the organization.

Email cover letter examples

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Email Address]

[Today's Date]

[Recipient's Name]

[Company Address]

Subject: Application for Marketing Analyst Position - [Your Name]

I am writing to apply for the Marketing Analyst position at Danone, which I recently discovered on [Job Board or Company Website]. With a strong background in data analysis, market research, and a passion for the consumer goods industry, I am confident that my skills and experience make me a perfect fit for this role.

In my previous role as a Market Research Analyst at [Previous Company], I successfully managed multiple research projects, identified emerging market trends, and provided actionable insights to guide marketing strategies. Some key accomplishments include:

  • [Any awards or recognitions received within the industry or previous company]

Please find my resume attached for your review. I am eager to contribute my expertise to Danone's marketing team and help drive the company's continued success in the consumer goods market. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how my skills and experiences align with Danone's values and goals.

An email cover letter with a resume is a concise message sent electronically to apply for a position. It highlights the candidate's skills and experience, demonstrates their interest in the role, and includes an attached resume for further review.

Email cover letter for a part-time job

Four Seasons Restaurant

Subject: Application for Part-Time Server Position - [Your Name]

I hope this message finds you well. I recently came across the part-time Server position at Four Seasons Restaurant and am excited to express my interest in joining your team. With my experience in providing exceptional customer service and passion for the hospitality industry, I am confident that I would be an excellent addition to your staff.

In my previous role as a Server at [Previous Company], I consistently received positive feedback from customers for my attentive service and friendly demeanor. Some key highlights from my experience include:

Please find my resume attached for your review. I am eager to contribute my skills and dedication to the Four Seasons Restaurant and help create memorable dining experiences for your guests. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

An email cover letter for a part-time job is a brief message sent electronically to apply for a position with reduced working hours. It emphasizes the candidate's relevant skills and experiences in the field, demonstrating their interest in the role, and includes an attached resume for further review.

Email cover letter for a summer job

Your Local Fisherman Store

Subject: Application for Summer Job - [Your Name]

I hope this message finds you well. As a student with a strong interest in fishing and the outdoors, I am excited to apply for a summer job at Your Local Fisherman store. I believe my passion for fishing, combined with my excellent customer service skills, make me an ideal candidate for this position.

While I have not yet worked in a retail setting, I have gained valuable customer service experience through volunteering at various local events, where I interacted with diverse groups of people and ensured their needs were met. Some key highlights from my experience include:

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Please find my resume attached for your review. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm and dedication to Your Local Fisherman store and help create a welcoming and knowledgeable environment for fellow fishing enthusiasts. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

An email cover letter for a summer job is a concise message sent electronically to apply for a temporary position during the summer months. It highlights the candidate's relevant skills, experiences, and interests, demonstrating their enthusiasm for the role, and includes an attached resume for further review.

Cover Letter Examples FAQs

Should i address an employment gap in my cover letter.

If you think that addressing your employment gap is important, then definitely include a sentence about it. With that being said, employment gaps aren’t uncommon and most recruiters would love to know more about your unemployment gap as it can help them understand more about you.

Should I include information about my availability?

Of course! Cover letters are meant to help clear up any questions that your resume may not. Adding a sentence to the body segment of your motivation letter is a great way to do so.

Can I mention that I’m fine with relocating for the job?

Yes. Oftentimes, cover letters are the perfect place to mention that you’re okay with moving cities or even states if you get the job. Resumes generally only give you the opportunity to mention where you live, but not that you’re open to relocating.

Should I mention anything about the salary in the cover letter?

This is a bit of a double-edged sword. If the salary for the position is included in the job ad, and you’re okay with it, then yes, you can say that in the cover letter. Otherwise, don’t talk in the cover letter about the salary. Save it for the first or second interview instead.

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Cover Letter Examples

Free Professional Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips

Margaret Buj

Career expert

CV template Professional

A cover letter that’s well  written and tailored for the position  you want to get is an essential part of any job application. A cover letter is expected by at least  10% of all recruiters  in addition to a  properly prepared resume . Make sure yours stands out perfectly for the role you’re seeking by using our professional examples below along with our cover letter builder.

What Should I Include in My Cover Letter?

An effective cover letter will need the following four key elements shown below

1. A formal greeting

Your first contact with the employer should be a formal one. You should address them as Mr/Mrs/Ms. for this initial interaction and state their name. If possible, avoid generic openers like “Dear Sir/Madam” or “to whom it may concern”.

2. A persuasive introduction

Use the first paragraph to introduce yourself as a candidate and to give a great first impression. Use this space to give quick reasons why you applied and would be the right choice for the precise job on offer.

3. Compelling paragraphs

This next part of the letter can be used to build a convincing argument as to why you’d be the right pick for the company. Use numerical evidence to support your case and make your achievements eye-grabbing.

4. Strong Final Impression

Finally, start moving the conversation towards the next stage of the job selection process. Encourage the recruiter to read your resume for further details and explain that you’re keen to meet in person as well as how you can be contacted.

[Hiring Manager’s name]

[Company name]

[Company address]

Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms. [Hiring Manager Name]

I am contacting you to communicate my interest in the Administrative Assistant role being advertised by [company]. This role really caught my attention as I have a strong educational background and extensive experience in the office administration of medium-sized businesses. I think this knowledge and expertise could be highly valuable to [company].

During my 6 year career, I have assisted with a wide range of office administrative tasks using Microsoft Office and LibreOffice software. I have been responsible for maintaining and managing sensitive data at each and every step of the meeting organization from planning to the recording of minutes, as well as drafting critical communications.

In my current position, I was also tasked with optimizing the efficiency of our office supply buying, the results of which saved the company over $1,800 per quarter. I also enhanced my written skills greatly by assisting with the drafting and proofing of important executive correspondences.

I have enclosed my resume with this letter to provide further information about my career history so far. I hope that my credentials represent a good match for this role.

I’m very keen to learn more about the position and would be eager to organize a meeting to discuss it in more detail. In the meantime, I’d like to thank you for your consideration and to invite you to contact me at any time regarding the opportunity.

I can be reached every evening from 4 pm-8.30 pm via home phone or at any time with my email address listed below.

Address Phone number Email address

Create a compelling cover letter to get the attention of a recruiter. We’ll show you in the points below how it’s done and what to highlight when using our cover letter builder.

Essential Points to Highlight

What should or shouldn’t be included in an effective document and what should a cover letter say? Let us briefly explain…

There’s more than one way to  format and prepare a letter . Depending on the type of job you’re targeting and your level of experience you have several options to choose from.

Simple Cover Letter

Our example of a simple cover letter shows you how to start preparing a document that can be used if you have  little-to-no professional experience  but that also allows you to highlight your most employable features. It is an easy cover letter to create, which is useful when you are just starting your career.

February 16th 2020

Dear Adrian,

I am writing to apply for the Customs Broker position at Geoplex Inc as posted on LinkedIn.com. I am a qualified and fully licensed broker, with over 4 years of experience and exemplary history of managing drilling machinery imports.

I was particularly interested in the position with Geoplex, as I share in the company values of growth and innovation. Working with Benson LLC, my current organization, I’ve overseen a 12% cut in costs, as well as ensuring the standards of compliance expected by the US CBP.

Furthermore, I’ve developed a reputation for coming up with exceptional solutions to problems. This has been an especially vital skill in my current role, especially when resolving any factors arising with clearance and deliveries.

I am eager to continue my upward trajectory in a new position and would relish the opportunity to make that happen with Geoplex Inc. Please find enclosed my resume, which provides additional detail on my skills and experience as well as my complete contact information.

Please feel free to reach out to me at your leisure via my personal number or email address. I look forward to speaking to you further regarding the position.

Connie Barnes

What Makes This a Strong Covering Letter?

Generally speaking, a simple cover letter allows you to convey a lot of information fast with little excess detail. It fits in all the required information that will help give you an edge over the competition, in a concise and focused manner.

As we can see in the adjacent cover letter example, the applicant focuses on a polite greeting, conveys all the contact details necessary, and uses the first paragraph to quickly outline their interest in the job and why they’d be suitable.

This allows you as the candidate to show that you have a genuine enthusiasm for applying, which will in turn interest the employer. You can then dedicate the rest of the initial opening to offering some tidbits of information that will further motivate the recruiter to keep reading.

Learn the basics about  writing addresses on cover letters  so you can plan what information to include

In the next part of the document, our writer has added some key examples as to how they made the difference in their last job. They’ve demonstrated a little about the essential tasks they did and focused on the results they achieved in doing so.

To finish things off, they have reiterated their enthusiasm for the role available and have gradually started to draw the conversation towards the possibility of an interview. It also creates some interest in the resume (which will be a more detailed explanation of your professional experience).

As you can see, each part of the document takes the reader on a short journey from the reason for applying, to why you’d be the best candidate for the job, to finally angling towards the next steps of the process. By doing this while focusing on the job description this will provide the recruiter with exactly what they’ll need to see to pick you for an interview.

Professional Cover Letter

In our example of a professional cover letter, you’ll see how to start writing and organizing a document that can help take you to the next level of your career. If you’ve already got a few years of experience under your belt, learn how to use it to your advantage.

Dear Patricia,

I wanted to make contact with you to register my interest in the Key Account Manager position with Rhino insurance that is advertised on LinkedIn. During my 8 years of working in insurance, Rhino is a company I’ve always admired and I think I could offer you the skills you’re looking for.

My goal is and always has been to get the maximum from my staff and create excellent relationships with high profile clients. That’s why over the last 4 years of working with Yannick Mutual I’ve overseen a 93% retention rate and helped to raise revenue by as much as 14%.

Great customer management is a skill that I know Rhino values highly and it is something I pride myself on also. Your 4.8-star customer satisfaction rating stands as a testament to your ability to respond properly to your client’s needs and I would love to bring my experience to help you achieve even better results.

I would be more than happy to talk in more depth on how I can help Rhino continue in its successes. Please contact me on 207-440-4475 if you would be interested in meeting for an interview.

Thank you for taking my application into consideration and I hope we can discuss the opportunity in more depth soon.

Raquel Galaz

What Makes This an Effective Cover Letter?

Professional cover letters will need to be more detailed than some other types like an  entry-level  or  simple cover letter .  However, conciseness is still key.

As we can see in this adjacent example the writer has started off as normal by detailing their contact information and  formally greeting the recruiter . They then go on to make a short introduction of themself and start making a strong case for why they would be the right choice.

In the next section, they move onto explaining a little about the way they manage in their current job and  illustrating where they brought results  with specific instances as evidence. As a seasoned professional you’ll be expected to provide plenty of examples of how you made a difference in previous jobs and what you achieved.

Learn the basics about writing addresses on cover letters so you can plan what information to include.

To finish things off, the candidate added important elements of a good conclusion:

  • Stating a desire to meet
  • Contact information
  • Thank you for the employer’s consideration

This detailed document covers a lot in just a few paragraphs, however, it strikes the right  balance between essential information and brevity . It also functions well as it is specifically tailored to the type of profile that the recruiter is looking for.

Entry-Level Cover Letter

When you’re starting out in your career or you’ve made a  major change of industry  you’re going to need an effective entry-level cover letter. Use our example to get your professional journey off on the right foot.

I am writing to express my interest in the Structural Engineer position with Rode Engineering advertised on Glassdoor.com. Having recently completed my B.S. in Engineering from MIT in May 20XX, I would love to start my career with Rode and feel I would be a perfect fit for the role being offered.

You stated in your notice that you are looking for a candidate with superb communication skills, excellent focus, and who is a good team player. This is precisely what I would be able to bring to the position. During my time at MIT, I was an active member of the volleyball team, where interdependency, strategy, and quick decision-making were invaluable skills for success.

Additionally, over 2 summers, I interned with Humbert Energy for 6 months, working within their infrastructure team. This gave me a working knowledge of everyday engineering tasks as well as many more abilities such as spotting warn parts, serious flaws in a design, and necessary structural repairs.

As you can see, my hands-on experience, my extracurricular activities, and my Engineering B.S. make me a great fit for the Structural Engineer role at Rode. I would be excited to discuss the position more in person.

Thank you very much for considering my application. Please feel free to contact me either on my phone number 412-721-6679 or my personal email to talk about the position at length. I look forward to hearing from you.

Dan Gillard

What Makes This a Convincing Covering Letter?

Like all good covering letters, this example starts off by making a  soft introduction  and giving a little detail as to why the candidate could be a good fit for the role. However, unlike others, it immediately addresses the elephant in the room, namely the lack of professional experience.

Not only does it state the candidate’s enthusiasm for seeking the role but it also makes it clear that they are newly qualified. However, it still plays to the writer’s strengths by  stating the qualification upfront  which allows the recruiter to see that the candidate is fully trained for the job.

Your qualifications are going to be your biggest selling point in this type of letter. If you don’t have any, instead focus on relevant examples of hands-on work experience.

In the main body of this example letter, we can see that the applicant has focused entirely on addressing the job requirements point-by-point. They’ve brought specific examples of where their  college education and time studying was put to good use  and how this could apply to the sort of profile the recruiter is looking for.

This involves a mix of  hard skills and soft skills , but it perfectly helps to make up for any lack of real-world professional experience. However, to make their case even stronger, they have been able to include details of an internship, which could help make the difference against the competition.

To finish everything off the writer has given a short prompt to  reiterate why they would fit the desired profile well , in a quick conclusion. All that then needs to be added is a short paragraph giving the recruiter a call to action and hopefully instigate the next steps in the process.

Creative Cover Letter

Creative cover letters stray a little from the normal rules of job applications. Find out how to effectively  create a document for a more artistic job that gets results  and demonstrates your creativity.

Dear David,

Fudge Digital is hiring and I am just the person you need. My name is Susan Taylor and I’m a seasoned and successful Digital Marketing Manager with more than 5 years of online marketing experience. Fudge is a business with a reputation for bringing together creativity and progress. Together, I think we’d make the perfect team.

I live and breathe life as a digital creative and in the last 5 years, it’s been my honor to be able to call myself a professional in this field. I make it my mission to create attractive and effective marketing assets that look great and sell better. In the last quarter, the digital assets my team and I brought to life have smashed their targets by over 30%.

My biggest guiding forces are communication and cooperation and I know that Fudge also appreciates these skills. I’ve been following your blog for a couple of years now and have always been impressed by the values of teamwork and inspiration that are woven into everything you do.

I was also totally blown away by your Award-winning video campaign. Hopefully, we’ll be able to work together to see that you retain the title next year.

Thank you for taking the time to read through my application. I am contactable by email every day or by landline Monday-to-Friday from 6 pm onwards. I hope we can meet soon to discuss how we can help Fudge reach even greater heights.

Yours truly,

Susan Taylor

What Makes This a Powerful Cover Letter?

In most cases, creative cover letters involve  even more individuality than most  and rely on standing out. Nevertheless, they still follow normal letter-writing conventions.

As you can see in our professional example, the writer still uses  standard formality and letter structure . However, once they launch into their opening salvo they do so with a much more imaginative approach.

The letter opening still introduces the candidate and sells them a little as the perfect fit for the job. As you would normally expect, it also gives some detail about the  motivations of the applicant .

Don’t get too experimental with your cover letter. It is still a formal part of your job application and whilst you can take some risks it still has to focus on the task at hand.

The middle sections of this letter focus on building a complete picture of the candidate. It goes into detail whilst also  adding more creative embellishments  than you wouldn’t normally see in a  simple  or  professional cover letter .

Our candidate, in this case,  chooses to use specific examples  that illustrate the success their work has brought in. In this case, exceeding commercial targets by double-digit percentages.

This writer also goes a step beyond and gives a lot more information about  how the company itself got their attention  and how both parties’ goals align. Again, they cite a specific example to strengthen their hand and to show they have done their research on the business.

The author of the letter then finishes off with a quick thank you for consideration and gives the recruiter some details on how to make contact. This leaves the reader with a  positive final impression  as well as the precise sort of information they need to move the process forward.

As we can see, creative documents are worded very differently to more conventional documents. However, even in these cases, it’s still essential to  give as much evidence as possible  on your working record, using numerical data where possible.

Short Cover Letter

It isn’t always necessary to write a cover letter that fills an entire page. If you can manage to explain why you’re the best candidate for the position, your  cover letter’s length  does not need to be that long. Use the top 1 to 2 reasons you should be hired, and keep what you write relevant to the vacancy.

Dear Mr. James,

I’ve loved teaching and working with children and adolescents since I was a summer camp counselor in my junior year of high school.

I have over eight years of teaching experience at the middle school level, working with children that cover a wide range of learning skills. The state test scores of my students have collectively finished in the 95th percentile of all test takers in each of the past four years. Considering all of these factors, I believe I am the ideal candidate for the 7th and 8th-grade math teacher position at Woodlawn Middle School.

Please feel free to contact me at any time, I can be reached at 555-732-4198 or by email at [email protected]

Sincerely, Frederik Gorman

You might not think less is more when you are applying for a job vacancy. However, in this case, a short cover letter can be just as convincing as a long one. There are cover letters that last an entire page and list  irrelevant information .

The purpose of a short cover letter is to get straight to the point. As we can see in the above short cover letter example, the applicant makes it clear right away that they are excited about the chance to fill the position.

Don’t worry so much about trying to flatter the employer. Get into what makes you the perfect candidate right at the beginning, and mention you would like a response soon.

The body of the letter and the ending of the letter achieve several things:

  • Addresses a specific accomplishment
  • Makes the candidate’s skills and experience clear
  • Enthusiasm for the job and an interview

Normal cover letters will go into further detail regarding the experience and skills the candidate possesses, however, this type of letter briefly yet effectively communicates the same information.

Advantages of Cover Letter Examples

As well as offering guidance and some inspiration, cover letter examples can be useful tools in helping you learn how to  highlight the most important information  that employers will need to know about. When  creating your cover letter , ResumeCoach’s examples can help with the following points:

Learn the length you should use and the sections that you will need to include.

2. Keywords

Personalize your cover letter and find the keywords that work for your sector.

3. Choice of language

Get the level of formality right and make the text accessible for any recruiter.

4. Adaptability and speed

Complete and adapt your cover letter and resume for any job with our editor.

Cover Letter Samples

Discover our perfect cover letter examples and find out the best tips and advice to write an outstanding cover letter for your resume.

  • Administrative Assistant
  • Engineering
  • Receptionist
  • Dental Assistant
  • Executive Assistant
  • Flight Attendant
  • Business Analyst
  • Software Engineer
  • Customer Service
  • Sales Associate
  • Data Entry Clerk
  • Property Manager
  • Esthetician
  • Office Manager
  • Software Developer
  • Event Coordinator
  • Office Assistant
  • Elementary Teacher
  • Operations Manager
  • Medical Receptionist
  • Bank Teller
  • Personal Assistant
  • Phlebotomist
  • Mechanical Engineer
  • Pharmacy Technician

CV template Modern

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Cover Letter Writing Guide 2024: Examples and Tips

Learn about the importance of a cover letter, discover three CV cover letter examples for jobs including management and middle management, as well as for students, graduates, and beginners.

[Featured Image] A hiring manager reviews a CV and cover letter during a video interview.

A well-structured cover letter, when combined with your CV, is key to finding the position you desire. A cover letter illustrates your expertise and qualifications for the job you seek. A cover letter offers the chance to describe specific situations, highlight important talents, and share professional goals that may not be addressed on your CV. 

Before you start drafting your CV cover letter, review some sample cover letters to discover effective techniques and important tips for creating a personal statement for your job application. This article explores three cover letter examples organised by genre and industry sectors to inspire you. 

Management cover letter example

[Receiver’s Address]

[Salutation],

I am a seasoned corporate executive with a strong reputation for accelerating corporate growth and reorganising global businesses. In the role of senior manager, I shall contribute my drive and will to succeed to your company. I have primary areas of experience that I will contribute to your company, which are as follows:

I have a deep dedication to [the respective industry/sector] , having served in many roles and competencies.

My effective [the respective industry/sector] knowledge as well as the capacity to develop, comprehend, and resolve [the respective industry/sector] processes is bound to boost business market share gains, ultimately leading to financial prosperity.

I have an independent spirit, agility, and expertise that will help you build important connections to succeed in business. 

My experience of over three decades of smart, critical thinking activities has delivered productivity and profitability.

My [name of degrees] and community outreach management responsibilities with several non-profit organisations have further enhanced my abilities and flexibility to satisfy the work criteria. Since I have done this over the years, I'd like to share with you the high-quality service and value I can offer to your organisation.

 Thank you for taking the time to read this. I can be contacted on [contact details]

With warm regards,

[Closing Signature]

Middle management cover letter example

I'm writing to express my interest in the position of [position name] at [company name] . I'm certain that my level of knowledge fits well with the obligations described in your job description since I have over six years of experience operating the [specified niche] .

I've proven myself to be quite an efficient manager and a good leader in my work as [name of previous job position and the company name] . As I single-handedly taught and trained the whole [team name] staff in prep work for [name a commendable task carried out by you] , my worth became clear to the proprietors. Throughout the following years, my team regularly exceeded monthly [specified niche] targets.

Your company, I feel, would greatly benefit my expertise in the key segments:

High level of customer service criteria 

A passion for quality

A high level of dedication as well as leadership abilities

Delivering results under pressure

I believe my skills will contribute to [business name] ongoing growth. My experience in this field has equipped me for this opportunity, and I genuinely hope that I will be able to contribute to your team.

It would be an honour to speak with you about the [job position] in further depth. I'd be delighted to visit whenever it is most suited for you. 

I appreciate the time, and eagerly await your response.

CV cover letter sample for beginners, students, and graduates

I'm writing this letter to express my interest in [company name] ’s internship programme. I learnt about your organisation via my institution's student placement centre, and after browsing your website, I've become interested in your outstanding work in [ industry name] .

I'm now majoring in [subject area] and minoring in [subject area] at [institution name] , where I'll graduate [graduation date] . In addition to my  [subject area] and [subject area] experience, I specialise in [interest/subject area] . The opportunity to do my internship with [business name] will expand my knowledge and experience to progress in my profession while applying everything I've studied to support your business objectives.

I aim to work with an organisation like [business name] after college to get hands-on experience, [professional goal] , and eventually [professional goal] . With the correct opportunity and professional experience with well-known clients, I believe I can achieve my goals. I previously interned at [business name], where I worked on important projects for their major customers. I had the chance to study [name of technical skills/tools learned] during the same internship. I also learnt [example of initiative and outcome] . Given that you are seeking to expand your [team name] , I feel my understanding of [subject area] may be of value to you.

If you have any questions that you would like me to address, please contact me on [contact details].

Looking forward to hearing from you,

3 tips for writing a great cover letter

The cover letter templates above go beyond the information in a CV, assisting the recruiting supervisor and potential employers in quickly recognising the applicant’s value as an employee. Let’s explore the key ways this is achieved.

Be straightforward and succinct. They express most about what a cover letter ought to state in the first paragraphs, such as their expertise level and status, as well as how they got the position.

Be specific about experience and impact. The applicant outlines key expectations from the position description and shows their relevant skills and previous experience with similar tasks. They also share an example about just how they have driven impact in their present job. Your cover letter should include applicable situations that illustrate your potential to accomplish the responsibilities mentioned in the job description whether you are a fresh graduate asking for an apprenticeship or early in your career looking for your next role.

Include a clear call to action. In each example, the applicant signed off by reiterating their interest in the company and role, sharing their availability and willingness to connect, and providing their contact details such as a phone number or email address.

Get started writing your cover letter

Your cover letter is an opportunity to distinguish yourself. Consider a period when you delivered impact with a major project or implemented a new strategy to spur innovation. Since you will have more quantifiable achievements to rely on as you gain more expertise, your cover letter is the perfect spot to bring out these details. Make the most of this desirable opportunity to show off your skills, expertise, and abilities. 

Learn more about effective cover letters in the online course Writing Winning Resumes and Cover Letters from the University of Maryland. For more career planning assistance, consider courses like Successful Interviewing or Career Planning: A Path to Employment .

Keep reading

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Cover Letter Examples to Pair with Your Resumes & CVs in 2022

Cover Letter Examples to Pair with Your Resumes & CVs in 2022

Madison Norton

Looking for cover letter examples that you can use?

You are at the right place!

We understand that writing a cover letter can be hard, that’s why we have added these highly customizable cover letter samples that you can copy and use.

In this article you are going to find the following examples:

  • Generic cover letter examples for anyone
  • Professional cover letter examples for experienced professionals
  • Creative cover letter examples to help you stand out
  • Entry level cover letter examples for professionals starting out their journey
  • Inspirational and great cover letter samples from various industries to inspire you
  • What a Cover Letter Should Include?

Overall a good cover letter should say that “I am applying for this position because…” and “this is what makes me the best candidate for this position…”. But in order to say it right, you need to add these 5 sections in your cover letter:

  • Salutation - This should be addressed to the hiring manager. If you don’t know the hiring manager and are applying at a very large company, use a salutation like “Dear [xyz] team” instead.
  • An introductory paragraph - Make sure to leave a good first impression here. Introduce yourself and briefly explain that you would like to apply for the position. Make it easier for the hiring manager to scan, this paragraph should be of maximum 2-3 lines.
  • Body paragraph(s) - This is where you help them understand why you are the perfect fit for the role. This is where your relevant experience, skills and achievements would shine.
  • Vision paragraph - Add how you feel you can add value to the organisation and if possible share how your vision aligns with the company’s vision.
  • Formal closing - Use this to prompt next steps for your job application. And add a sign-off.

Optionally, you can also include these two to your cover letter:

  • Postscript - If you have something of value that adds value to your cover letter, consider adding it by adding a “PS: …” at the end of your cover letter.
  • A portfolio paragraph - If you have a portfolio to share, consider adding a short paragraph of 1-2 lines with links to your portfolio added in it.

The Perfect Cover Letter Example Template

Salutation Dear [First name of hiring manager]/Dear [XYZ] Team

Introductory Paragraph Add your cover letter’s introduction here. Give a brief description of who you are, what you specialise in, and what makes you apply for the position. Keep it to a maximum of 2-3 lines.

Body Paragraph(s) The body paragraph(s) should highlight three things: relevant work experience, relevant skills and professional achievements. While writing these paragraphs, ensure that you only add relevant skills and experience as information overload would overwhelm the hiring manager.

Best practice is to use the combination of paragraph and bulleted list to make it easier for the hiring manager to scan for the right information as shown below in this cover letter example:

“As the lead auditor for KPMG West Coast, I managed a team of 15+ auditors independently and achieved the following results: Reached 100% compliance levels with zero errors in FY 2022 audit reports. Won award for …”

Vision Paragraph It often helps a hiring manager to see what the job applicant envisions they would do if they were hired. Adding your vision can help you stand out from the crowd.

Formal Closing Add a formal closing statement. Adding “Sincerely” followed by your name should be more than sufficient for most job applications.

cover letter example template

  • Our Cover Letter Guides

A cover letter is often the very first thing a recruiter sees when you apply for a job. Even if you don’t have any job experience, making sure your cover letter is in the best shape possible gets you off to a great start on the hunt for your dream job! Take a look at our cover letter examples and guides when you're a little light on work experience:

  • Dental Assistant No Experience Cover Letter Examples
  • Legal Assistant No Experience Cover Letter Examples
  • Entry Level Bank Teller No Experience Cover Letter Examples
  • Budtender No Experience Cover Letter Examples
  • Paralegal No Experience Cover Letter Examples
  • Medical Assistant No Experience Cover Letter Examples
  • Flight Attendant No Experience Cover Letter Examples
  • CNA No Experience Cover Letter Examples
  • USPS No Experience Cover Letter Examples
  • A Sample Generic Cover Letter for Employment

We have written a lot about how to customise your cover letter to perfection, but if that’s not your strong suit - consider the cover letter example below.

  • Generic Cover Letter Example - Copy and Use

I was excited to see Berg Lansing’s Technical Writer position on berglansing.com and really wanted to apply for this role. The idea of playing a pivotal role in delivery of effective support to Berg Lansing’s customers through high quality user documentation is very exciting to me.

I currently manage multiple cross functional technical writing programs at ACME. And as a part of my current role I ensure that stakeholders, internal team members and customers are well supported. Some of my technical writing accomplishments at ACME include: Reduction of customer support requests by 25% as a result of simplified documentation.

Helping customer support teams reach 45% higher CSAT scores on closed support requests. Introduction of the idea of maintainable technical documentation to my peers and leading the program at ACME. Reduction of length of technical content by as much as 50%.

In my previous role, I was also responsible for maximizing the visibility of an organization's corporate activities by crafting creative content and working with creative teams for PR.

I am eager to apply my current skill set and knowledge to the Technical Writer position at Berg Lansing. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, Heather T. Wynn

Generic cover letter example

What Makes this a Great Cover Letter Example?

While this cover letter example is a generic one, it doesn’t appear to be generic at all. Heather has very smartly picked up key elements that are common across each technical writer job and have written a cover letter around it.

In addition to that, Heather also made the following decisions that make the cover letter look customized for this job:

  • Using the hiring manager’s name instead of a generic salutation
  • Mentioning the organization’s name that she’s applying to.

To summarize why it makes a great cover letter example:

  • It has been intelligently designed to work with multiple job ads with very minor modifications
  • No part of the cover letter example feels generic.
  • Two Professional Cover Letter Samples

If you are not applying for an entry level job, consider these professional cover letter examples.

Professional Cover Letter Sample

Jeannine C. Frederick Big 4 Consulting Corp 1901 Norman Street Los Angeles, CA 90042

Dear Jeannine,

My name is Lida and I wish to apply for the auditor position at the Big 4 Consulting Corp office in Los Angeles. I have spoken with several members of Big 4 Consulting Corp’s audit teams and was each time impressed by their acuity and passion for both accounting and their firm. I am confident that my accounting skills and passion for efficiency will make me an excellent fit for Big 4 Consulting Corp, just as they are.

My accounting and time management skills will be vital to succeeding at Big 4 Consulting Corp. I was able to apply what I had learned that year to my work at the Corp2, where I was given the opportunity to assist the non-profit accounting department and CFO in their fiscal year-end closing and annual internal and external third party audit.

It was in Corp2 that I found my passion for understanding business operations. I enjoyed understanding how each employee’s work helped achieve the organization’s goals because I would be able to find ways to perform my own tasks to more efficiently and effectively achieve those goals.

While working full time here, I also took two accounting courses and taught myself Visual Basic programming in order to further optimize my efficiency at work. I was actually able to use the programming I learned this summer to automate several tasks such as bulk emails and manage large spreadsheets.

My passion for accounting and desire to understand clients and their complex businesses and circumstances align with Big 4 Consulting Corp’s audit approach to understand a client’s business, risks, and internal controls in order to provide the most effective audit procedures. After conversing with several team members about their passions and goals, I believe I am an excellent fit for Big 4 Consulting Corp’s culture and philosophy.

I was inspired by audit manager Shanon’s dedication and ambition but also humbled by her modesty and kindness. I also clicked well with Derick and look forward to possibly working with him and all the other team members I’ve spoken with.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing this position further.

Sincerely, Lida R. Boyles

professional cover letter example 1

What Makes this Example a Great Cover Letter to Use?

This is a very professional, yet very deeply thought-out cover letter. To take a role at such a large organization, Lida displayed how well she knows the culture and that she had put enough effort to understand the current team as well.

This cover letter example highlights how to impress a hiring manager in large organizations.

Customizable Cover Letter Sample

Here is another professional cover letter sample that you can drive inspiration from.

Dear Lorrie, TeamGIS 1787 Pearlman Avenue South Boston, MA 02127

I am excited to apply for the position of GIS Technician at TeamGIS’s New York office. My technical skills in geospatial analysis at large scale, background in data management and visualization makes me an ideal candidate for this position.

Over the last few years, I have worked on extremely challenging remote sensing use cases and LiDAR datasets to derive various indices and statistical measures. My work has been instrumental in helping decision makers with reports and custom visualizations. My key projects involve: Allocation of various types of social housing across the continental United States. Assessing impact of global warming on social housing portfolio. Informing equity research analysts about possible asset value fluctuations based on GIS data.

My professional focus, work experience and research interests significantly overlap with the future vision of TeamGIS and that’s why I feel I will be a valuable addition to your team.

I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you in detail.

Sincerely, Evan

customizable professional cover letter example

What Makes this Example a Great Cover Letter?

Unlike the previous cover letter example, this cover letter by Evan went in a completely different direction by showcasing the following: It shows that Evan has the right skills to do the job In addition, it also showcases how well Evan’s personal goals are aligned with the company goals as well.

  • A Creative Cover Letter Sample

This creative cover letter example will show you how you can adopt creativity and stand out from the crowd.

Cover Letter Example for Employment Application

Dear Vernon Team,

When I was in the 6th grade I was limited to 3 questions a day in my class because I asked “why” way too much. Thankfully, as an adult, I can ask “why” as many times as I want. My passion to understand the “why” for the user and the company makes me a perfect candidate for the Product Management position.

As an associate product manager, asking “why” and then collecting data to extract insights to improve products is what I truly enjoy. I have been instrumental in lifting XYZ app’s adoption from 10% to 43% and implemented a mobile attribution system from the ground up to support acquisition efforts.

I am a very organized, and strategic person who enjoys putting “hypothesis before solutions” and “differentiating with execution”. Shopping and payment products excite me a lot as there are numerous opportunities to serve better user experiences and build flow states.

As a Product Manager for Vernon, I will bring my user research skills towards mobile shopping and payment verticals and build the next generation applications.

Thank you for your time and consideration, I look forward to hearing from you about this opportunity.

Sincerely, Devon

creative cover letter example

What Makes this a Great Creative Cover Letter Example

The way Devon starts this letter by bridging his habit of asking “why” to what he becomes illustrates his deep passion for being curious and finding solutions instead of assuming everything.

Any hiring manager who is looking for a customer obsessed product manager would love Devon’s creative cover letter example.

  • Cover Letter Example for Career Transition

This cover letter example will help you craft one to support your career transition.

Cover Letter Sample

Dear Susan,

Ever since I started in sales, I enjoyed understanding customer’s needs and providing them with the right solutions. It became an obsession as I worked more and what started with me learning email marketing turned me into a self taught marketer. And, that’s why I’m interested in applying for the role of Junior Marketer.

From running personal projects to learning marketing to freelance for various clients to gain real world experience I have gained the following skills: PPC - Google Adwords, Facebook Ads (Google and Facebook certified) SEO and Content Marketing Email marketing and Sales enablement

At your organization (especially under Ralf’s leadership) I feel I can learn even more and fulfill my dream of working in the marketing team of a cutting edge company.

I am looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, Jim

career transition cover letter example

How to Use this Cover Letter Example for Career Change?

Career transitions are very hard to justify. Often hiring managers see applications from an unrelated or adjacent role and can’t understand why the candidate has applied for the position. That’s why this cover letter example is extremely good. It very clearly justifies:

  • The motivation to apply for the role despite working in sales.
  • What Jim has done on his own to support his transition.
  • Jim’s own thoughts on how he expects to thrive under existing leadership

This cover letter example also shows that Jim has spent time and energy considering this job as well.

  • Cover Letter for Entry Level Roles

This cover letter example will show you how to apply to an entry level position.

Cover Letter Example

I am excited to apply for the Mechanical Engineer Intern position at ACME. I found this position through the referral of Lorraine A. Dubreuil, Design Head for FST division at ACME. I am a graduate student pursuing Aerospace Engineering at Texas A&M. With my Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, my extensive R&D experience in mechanical design and structural engineering, I believe I am a strong candidate for this position.

During my time as an undergraduate, I utilized SolidWorks and MATLAB to design and analyze the structure tube frame of chassis. I also assisted with the hand lay-up of our vehicle’s carbon fibre monocoque which taught me a lot about working with composite structures.

Additionally, my work with the SAE collegiate design series has provided me with experience in design and manufacturing, while emphasizing teamwork, adaptability and communication.

Now, I am eager to apply my mechanical engineering knowledge and skills at ACME. Thank you for your valuable time and consideration. I am sincerely looking forward to learning more details about the Mechanical Engineer Intern position.

Sincerely, Tom

entry level cover letter example

How to Use this Cover Letter Example to Apply for Jobs?

Tom, while being an undergraduate, knows the value of communication. And this cover letter example by Tom highlights how he:

  • Highlights relevant past R&D project work.
  • Leaves an impact by providing the reference who referred him for the role.
  • Wrote a very concise cover letter as shown in the example; this is uncommon where most graduates would overdo their cover letters and fail to leave the same impact.
  • The Shift Toward Email Cover Letters for Job Applications

The formal cover letter - A PDF attached to the job application with a classic 4 paragraph layout - is quickly becoming obsolete. However, it is being replaced by the “introductory email.” A short note explaining to the hiring manager or recruiter why you are the perfect fit. I use the term cover letter interchangeably with introductory email in this article.

A good cover letter is a marketing pitch - it draws the reader in, and encourages them to read more. We’ve compiled all of the best cover letters on the internet and from our own personal network.

Copying these cover letters will not be effective for you. A cover letter/intro email is a personal document that depends on the employer, the target contact, and your own skillset. If you’re a very qualified candidate - a short sentence can suffice. If you’re a young, ambitious recent graduate - you might need more real estate to sell yourself.

We have compiled various industry cover letter examples below that you can use as inspiration.

Cover Letter Example Job Categories:

  • Designer Cover Letter
  • Customer Support Cover Letter
  • Community Management Cover Letter
  • Software Engineer Cover Letter
  • Marketing Cover Letter
  • Business Development & Sales Cover Letter
  • Designer Cover Letter Examples

Design cover letters should focus on the things that matter most when it comes to design. Namely, the designs. However, a good designer needs to communicate well as they will be working with different members of company teams, or external clients. Design cover letters should also of course link to an online portfolio or project that shows their skill. Here are some great examples of design cover letters.

Cover letter for a product designer at Crew

Product designer cover letter

This is a perfect introductory email. It takes the tone of the job post in question, and matches the company vibe. It then outlines Luke's passion for the position, and that he studies his craft extensively. He also includes links to his online portfolio/resume. You can view the full cover letter, and more examples at the blog post by Michael Cho of Crew at the following blog post: Why I didn't look at your resume .

Cover letter for a design director at 37 Signals

37-signals-design-cover-letter

This cover letter matches 37 Signals Philosophy nicely. It explains Jamie's beliefs about design, and why he is unique compared to other designers. He also made a sample work project to share with the team. You can view the full cover letter at the following link .

Cover letter for a graphic designer at 37 Signals

37-signals-design-cover-letter-2

This online cover letter has a nice balance of explaining who Jason is, what he know about the company (and why he is passionate about working for them), and his skills. The full letter can be found here .

  • Customer Support Cover Letter Examples

The key to a customer support role is a great personality and communication skills. The cover letter is an opportunity to first express those communication skills to your next employer. Note that these letters vary in tone, from professional to more casual. The applicant must make the judgement call based on what they know about the company.

Cover letter for a customer happiness concierge

customer-support-cover-letter

Marlee's cover letter gets the tone right - you can tell she is a happy, personable, and effective person. She outlines why her past experience makes her a great fit for the job, and her personal habits that will ensure her success in the role. The full cover letter can be found here .

Cover letter for a Director of Customer Care

director-of-customer-care-cover-letter

This is an expert from a blog post from the CEO at LiveStream, who said it was the best cover letter he has ever received. It is funny, honest, and confident. Note the applicant takes a few risks with the language and tone - but clearly understands his audience. You can read the full cover letter (along with the job description), at this link .

Cover letter for customer support

customer-support-coverletter-example

This cover letter gets to the point, and shows deep understanding of what a customer support role is. As it clearly states, "customers want to communicate with a human" - it is clear there is a human behind this letter. View the full letter here.

customer-success-coverletter-sample

Jason clearly shows his writing skills and passion for the job in this cover letter.

  • Community Management Cover Letter Examples

Cover letters for community management positions must understand what a community manager role is. To be a successful community manager, one must be a great communicator, an enthusiastic personality, and a dialed-in social media guru. Here are the best examples of community manager cover letters we found.

Cover letter for a community manager

community-manager-cover-letter

The tone perfectly matches the company that Joanne is applying for. It outlines her enthusiasm, passion, and how her past experience applies to the job.

  • Software Engineer Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter for a web developer

web-developer-cover-letter

This cover letter shows that an effective introductory email doesn't have to be long. It efficiently lays out the skills that Thomas has, and piques the company's interest about what he can bring to the table. In a hot market for engineers, this is enough to get the interview. It is also from Mikael's article.

Cover letter for a front-end developer

front-end-developer

This cover letter is also for Mikael Cho's company, Crew . It emphasizes links to Dan's portfolio and best work - very important for a web developer.

  • Marketing Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter for a marketing position at google

marketing-cover-letter

For creative positions, a creative cover letter is necessary. This cover letter mirrored the marketing materials at Google, and got the interview. View the full article here.

Sales & Business Development Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter for a business development/product specialist.

Rodolphe shows how persistence and hard work can convince an employer to hire you in this cover letter to work at Buffer - a fast growing social media management platform. The full exchange is worth reading on the Buffer Blog .

Cover letter for a sales coordinator

sales-coordinator-cover-letter

This cover letter for a sales coordinator position is closer to a traditional cover letter than the other examples. It does a fine job of outlining experience and passion for the job. View a full before-and-after analysis of this cover letter on the Ask a Manager Blog.

  • Cover Letter Examples and Frequently Asked Questions
  • What is a good opening sentence for a cover letter?

A good opening sentence for a cover letter is “I was excited to see Company’s position on Indeed.com and really wanted to apply for this role”.

  • What are some examples of selling points in a cover letter?

Some examples of good selling points in a cover letter are:

  • “In 2021 I was able to help my company achieve [something]...”
  • “I was awarded [X] in 2021 due to my exceptional work in [Y]...”
  • “I built [X] team out from scratch to help [company]...”
  • “I am currently in the top 1% in [Y]...”
  • “I have managed large scale projects when it comes to [X]...”
  • What are the 3 parts of a cover letter?

Three main parts of a cover letter are:

  • Cover letter body
  • A formal closing
  • How do you write a perfect cover letter?

To write a perfect cover letter make sure you address the cover letter to the right name, customize the cover letter based on the job ad and show how you are the best candidate for the role.

  • How to write a cover letter in email?

To write a cover letter in email, simply copy the cover letter you created using the examples above and paste it into your email client.

  • Use These Examples To Inform Your Own Cover Letter

Remember, the key to a good cover letter is personalization. You must market to your audience. Do the research, write well - and go get hired!

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Recommended links:

  • Our collection of 500+ professional resume examples .
  • Our gallery of 20+ downloadable resume templates .
  • Sales & Business Development Cover Letter Examples

Madison Norton

Madison Norton

VP Marketing & Resume Expert

Madison is the VP Marketing and General Manager at VisualCV . He's a seasoned marketing leader, resume writing and career marketing expert and now helping people grow their own career marketing strategies to build a career they love.

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Writing a great CV is your first and most important step to scoring your dream job. You can be the best in your field and interview well, but it won't matter if you don't have an impressive CV to get your foot in the door. With this guide, you will have the perfect CV in no time.

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Three excellent cover letter examples

Cover letters are the first chance you have to impress an employer – they’re not just a protective jacket for your CV. Here’s our guide on what to include and how to format them

  • More CV and cover letter templates
  • Looking for a job? Explore the range of vacancies on Guardian Jobs and find the perfect role for you

The first thing a potential employer sees in your job application is the cover letter. This doesn’t just support your CV – it’s an opportunity for you to stand out from the crowd and persuade the recruiter to put you through to the next round.

Be wary of spending hours on perfecting your CV at the expense of your cover letter. If you need some inspiration on what to include and what format to use, here are our helpful guides – just remember not to copy them as exact templates.

1. Standard, conservative style

This is ideal for sectors such as business, law, accountancy and retail. For more creative sectors, a letter like this might be less appealing, and could work against you.

Dear Mr Black, Please find enclosed my CV in application for the post advertised in the Guardian on 30 November. The nature of my degree course has prepared me for this position. It involved a great deal of independent research, requiring initiative, self-motivation and a wide range of skills. For one course, [insert course], an understanding of the [insert sector] industry was essential. I found this subject very stimulating. I am a fast and accurate writer, with a keen eye for detail and I should be very grateful for the opportunity to progress to market reporting. I am able to take on the responsibility of this position immediately, and have the enthusiasm and determination to ensure that I make a success of it. Thank you for taking the time to consider this application and I look forward to hearing from you in the near future. Yours sincerely

2. Standard speculative letter

This may vary according to the nature of the organisation and the industry you’re applying to.

Dear Mr Brown, I am writing to enquire if you have any vacancies in your company. I enclose my CV for your information. As you can see, I have had extensive vacation work experience in office environments, the retail sector and service industries, giving me varied skills and the ability to work with many different types of people. I believe I could fit easily into your team. I am a conscientious person who works hard and pays attention to detail. I’m flexible, quick to pick up new skills and eager to learn from others. I also have lots of ideas and enthusiasm. I’m keen to work for a company with a great reputation and high profile like [insert company name]. I have excellent references and would be delighted to discuss any possible vacancy with you at your convenience. In case you do not have any suitable openings at the moment, I would be grateful if you would keep my CV on file for any future possibilities. Yours sincerely

3. Letter for creative jobs

We’ve used the example of a copywriter but you can adapt it for your profession. The aim of a creative letter is to be original and show you have imagination, but understand what the job entails. Balance is essential: don’t be too wacky, or it will turn off the reader.

Dear Ms Green, · Confused by commas? · Puzzled by parenthesis? · Stumped by spelling? · Perturbed by punctuation? · Annoyed at the apostrophe? (And alliteration?) Well, you’re not alone. It seems that fewer and fewer people can write. Unfortunately, there are still a lot of people who can read. So they’ll spot a gaffe from a mile off. And that means it’s a false economy, unless you’re 100% sure of yourself, to write your own materials. (Or to let clients do it for themselves.) To have materials properly copywritten is, when one considers the whole process of publishing materials and the impact that the client wishes to make, a minor expense. Sloppiness loses clients, loses customers. There is an answer. Me. Firm quotes are free. You can see some of what I do on my multilingual website at [insert web address]. If you’d like, I can get some samples out to you within 24 hours. And, if you use me, you’ll have some sort of guarantee that you can sleep soundly as those tens of thousands of copies are rolling off the presses. Luck shouldn’t come into it! With kindest regards

Other helpful resources

How to write a perfect CV and cover letter

Applying for jobs without experience? How to build and sell your skills

Five steps to the perfect graduate CV

School-leavers and graduates: how to write your first CV

How to write a personal statement for your CV

CV templates to fit every stage of your career

Looking for a job? Browse Guardian Jobs for your next career step.

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship? (+5 Real Internship Cover Letter Examples)

  • Julia Mlcuchova , 
  • Updated March 20, 2024 8 min read

Trying to figure out how to write a cover letter for an internship ? Look no further!

POV: After weeks and weeks of searching for the right internship opportunity, you've finally found it. But, at the end of the posting, there's a single short sentence that takes you aback:  “Please, attach a cover letter to your application .”

Although some consider cover letter writing to be a relic of the past, it still holds its rightful place in the professional world. 

Because a well-written and persuasive cover letter can sometimes make up for the lack of work experience on your resume . And if you're trying to apply for an internship , this is probably your case, too. 

So, continue reading this article and learn: 

  • What is a cover letter for an internship;
  • Whether you need to attach a cover letter to your internship application;
  • How to write one in 7 steps;
  • 5 real-life internship cover letter examples .

Table of Contents

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What is a cover letter for an internship?

Do you need a cover letter for an internship, how to write a cover letter for an internship in 7 steps, 5 real-life internship cover letter examples, key takeaways: how to write a cover letter for an internship.

Generally speaking, an internship cover letter is a formal document that accompanies your resume when applying for an internship. 

When it comes to its content, a cover letter for an internship falls somewhere between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter . 

  • A traditional cover letter , used by job applicants with years of experience, is supposed to underline some of the candidate's most relevant and impressive skills, qualifications, and work achievements . 
  • A motivational letter , used mostly in academia, aims to communicate one's passion for the subject, their motivation, and personal goals . 

Hence, a cover letter for an internship combines the purpose of the traditional cover letter (convincing the recruiters that you're the right person for the job) with the tone and strategy of the motivational letter (writing about personal motivations and goals).

A truly successful internship cover letter should answer the following questions:

  • Who are you? 
  • Why are you interested in this particular internship?
  • Why are you the best fit for this internship?
  • What do you want to gain from this internship?

Absolutely! 

In fact, you should always attach a cover letter to your internship application , even if it isn't explicitly required from you.  

Why, you ask? 

Well, consider this: Internships are crucial stepping stones towards your dream career. And they're also incredibly competitive. A single internship opening can be answered by tens of applicants at a time. 

But how can you stand out from a crowd of equally inexperienced candidates? Certainly not by your non-existent professional accomplishments, right? 

When companies look for interns, they don't expect you to have a ton of real-life experience. They aren't looking for a “finished product,” but for someone with a genuine desire to learn and enthusiasm for the job. 

And these two are your weapons of choice!

How can a cover letter for an internship help you?

Apart from the reasons mentioned above, your internship cover letter is also responsible for: 

  • Conveying first impression. Usually, recruiters will read your cover letter before looking at your resume. So, it's the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to them in a memorable way. 
  • Showing your efforts. Next, taking the time to craft a thoughtful cover letter shows that you're willing to put in that extra effort to stand out from the rest of the candidates. 
  • Highlighting your communication skills. Also, a well-written cover letter demonstrates your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and professionally. 
  • Showing your professionalism. When you walk into a room, it's polite to introduce yourself and shake everybody's hand. This is exactly what a cover letter does! To attach one to your application is a common courtesy.

Now that you're familiar with the whats and whys , let's have a look at how to write a good cover letter for an internship step-by-step. 

For example : Application for [name of the internship] internship – Surname.

Then, place your contact information (your name; professional email address; phone number; link to your website / portfolio / social media accounts if relevant) directly into the header .

If you know the recipient's name, address them by “ Dear [full name] ,” or “ Dear Mrs/Mr [last name] ,”. If you don't know who to address the cover letter to , address it more generally to “Dear Hiring Manager,” .

In the first paragraph of your cover letter , start by stating your name and where you studied (including your current degree and year of study). Proceed by explaining how you came to know about the internship and what are your motivations for applying to it.

Since you don't have much work experience, you can talk about your academic achievements; relevant coursework; dissertation project; extracurricular activities; volunteering; membership in relevant societies, etc.

The closing paragraph of your cover letter should reiterate your desire to get the specific internship, express gratitude to the recipient for their time and consideration, and include a final call for action (i.e. "I look forward to discussing the next steps during an interview." )

Finally, based on how you greeted the recipient of your cover letter, you can sign off with either “ Yours sincerely ,” or “ Yours faithfully ,” . If you addressed the recruiter by their name, sign off with the former; if not, use the latter.

Don't feel like writing your internship cover letter by hand?

Let our AI cover letter writer create the first draft of your internship cover letter!

Undoubtedly, the best way to learn something is to look at specific examples . And that's exactly what we're going to do right now! 

Below, we've prepared 5 internship cover letters written by real people with the help of our cover letter templates .

And, each of them is accompanied by our internship cover letter writing tips that you can implement into your own cover letter! 

FYI, you can use each of these examples as the first draft for your very own internship cover letter – simply click on the red button and start personalising the text (or let AI handle it).

#1 Philips Marketing Intern Cover Letter Sample

Internship cover letter example:.

This cover letter sample was provided by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

What can you take away?

  • Eye-catching header.  Firstly, the header is visually clearly separated from the rest of the text. This makes the recruiters notice it immediately. Plus, the contact information of the company is also featured in the left-hand corner - just like it would be on an actual letter.
  • Research the company before applying. Notice sentences like: “ I really like and relate to what Philips stands for … ” and “ Furthermore, it is very appealing that Philips operates on an international level… ”.This shows that the candidate’s done a thorough research of the company's philosophy and structure.

#2 Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

  • Share a personal story. This can help you establish a sentimental connection between you and the company. Show them that for you, working for their company means more than any old internship.
  • Name-drop a referral. Now, this is a little bit of a cheat code. But, if you happen to know about anyone who has worked/currently works for the company, slip their name into your cover letter.

#3 University of Massachusetts Boston Intern Cover Letter Example

What can you take away  .

  • Write about what you want to gain from the internship. It shows that you're not there just to have something to put on your resume; but that you’re motivated by the idea of gaining actual industry knowledge and skills.

#4 Audit/Tax Summer Internship at CohnReznick Cover Letter Sample

  • Mention any relevant academic activities. If you're wondering how to write a cover letter for an internship with no experience whatsoever, this is your way to go! For example, notice how this candidate noted all of his relevant courses, skills, association membership, and competition participation.
  • Focus on transferrable skills. Especially when your study programme doesn't necessarily fit the internship opening to a T. Instead, focus on any transferable skills you've picked up. 

#5 Intern at NBC Cover Letter Sample

  • Keep your opening and closing paragraphs short and sweet. As you can see in this example, it helps keep a certain visual harmony of the overall document. And, despite the length, both paragraphs do exactly what they're supposed to. Besides, recruiters might be discouraged to read the rest of your cover letter if your introductory paragraph is too long.

To sum it all up, an internship cover letter is a formal document that you submit together with your resume when applying for an internship. Its content should be something between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter.

Its purpose is to introduce yourself to the recruiters in a more personal way than the resume allows. 

The main things you want your internship cover letter to communicate are:

  • who you are,
  • why you're interested in this opportunity,
  • what make you the best fit for the internship, 
  • your motivation (your long-term professional goals),
  • your desire to learn (what you want to gain from the experience).

To write a truly impactful and persuasive cover letter, we recommend following these 7 key steps: 

  • Specify which internship you're applying for in the subject line.
  • Include your contact information in a header.
  • Address the recipient appropriately.
  • Introduce yourself & your motivations in the opening paragraph.
  • Elaborate on why you're a good fit and what motivated you in body.
  • End your cover letter with a confident closing paragraph.
  • Finish off with a polite sign off. 

Finally, if you feel that the examples provided in this article aren't enough, you can always find more in our cover letter database . 

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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LiveCareer

College Graduate Resume Examples

Class dismissed, the workforce awaits! Learn from graduates who’ve aced the interview game with these professionally crafted resume examples for college graduates and personalized tips.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • College Graduate Resume Summary Examples
  • College Graduate Resume Work Experience Examples
  • College Graduate Resume Skills Examples
  • Examples of Additional Resume Sections
  • Examples of Resume Formats
  • Don’t Forget Your College Graduate Cover Letter
  • Similar Resume Examples

Recent college graduate resume summary examples

Begin your resume with a brief introduction to employers where you share your top professional qualities. This is your first opportunity to grab a recruiter’s attention, so make it count by tailoring your intro to a specific job.

Why? Hiring managers spend only seven seconds scanning each resume , so you’ll need to craft a punchy intro with everything they’re looking for in a candidate.

Briefly highlight your top skills , relevant experiences (think internships, projects, volunteer work!) and career aspirations to show them you’re a strong candidate.

A professional summary is the best approach for you if you’re a seasoned graduate with a backpack full of impressive projects. Showcase your accomplishments, quantifiable results and the skills directly aligned with your target job.

Less experienced? No sweat! Opt for an objective statement instead. Focus on your academic background and relevant skills, and express your enthusiasm for joining the workforce.

The following two examples will teach you the difference between a good college graduate resume objective and a weak one. Learn what elements make you stand out and what mistakes to avoid.

Good example:

“Highly motivated recent accounting graduate seeking first Junior Accountant position to leverage strong analytical skills and knowledge of blockchain technology and cloud-based accounting software proficiency. Achieved a 98% accuracy rate in accounts payable processing during internship at Deloitte, streamlining procedures and boosting team efficiency by 15%. Eager to learn, contribute, and grow within a dynamic team environment.”

Why this example passes:

  • Highlights three of the most in-demand accounting skills .
  • Shows recruiters the scope of their work’s impact by numbers that back up their accomplishments.
  • Assures potential employers of the candidate’s maturity by stating their eagerness to learn and grow.

Bad example:

“Seeking entry-level accounting position. Graduated with a degree in accounting. Enjoy numbers and financial tasks. Hope to learn more about accounting in a real-world setting.”

Why this example fails:

  • It’s too generic; it doesn’t mention relevant skills or experiences.
  • Uses a passive voice and weak verbs like “seeking” and “hope”.
  • Lacks quantifiable achievements, providing no evidence of the candidate’s capabilities.

Write a professional resume summary in minutes

Want an impeccably written resume summary that includes the top industry skills and quantifiable achievements without spending hours researching, writing and fine-tuning every little word? That’s a piece of cake for our Resume Builder .

The builder comes preloaded with auto-suggested phrasing written by resume experts.

Type your job title in the search bar to load personalized examples of resume summaries.

Pick the one that best fits your profile and qualifications.

Customize it with your unique skills and years of experience. Resume summary: done!

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College graduate resume work history examples.

Your work experience section is your resume’s most crucial section, but what if you don’t have much previous experience?

Crafting a compelling resume without work experience requires focusing on academic achievements like internships, research projects, and relevant coursework. Highlight accomplishments instead of job responsibilities, and avoid the common resume mistake of merely describing daily routines. Employers are more interested in seeing your results and tangible contributions.

Compare these two examples to learn what to avoid and what to highlight in your resume work experience.

Podiatry Clinic Assistant | 08/2023 – Present Dr. Krasinski Podiatry Care, Bloomington, IN

  • Perform diabetic foot ulcer care, dressing 50+ patients/week & achieving 98% infection reduction through evidence-based practices.
  • Educate 100+ patients on foot hygiene and footwear, driving a 15% decline in repeat ankle sprains with tailored communication.
  • Streamline clinic workflows with podiatrists and nurses, reducing patient wait times by 20% through teamwork and problem-solving.
  • Features accomplishments directly related to the candidate’s desired role as a podiatry nurse.
  • Packs this section with various data-based accomplishments, for example, number of patients they cared for and their performance statistics.
  • Shares not only the candidate’s medical expertise but also their efficiency working in an office environment.
  • Take care of many patients with various foot ailments.
  • Guide patients with their post-op care.
  • Learn a lot about podiatry surgical techniques.
  • Good at following instructions.
  • This example has vague and general accomplishments.
  • None of the achievements tells us something unique about this candidate.
  • Lacks crucial information such as required skills and experience.

College graduate resume skills

Here are some of the best skills you can put on your resume as a recent college graduate:

  • Computer proficiency
  • Research skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Communication
  • Collaboration
  • Critical thinking
  • Organizational skills
  • Time management
  • Project management
  • Customer service skills
  • Adaptability
  • Ability to work independently
  • Attention to detail
  • Strong work ethic
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Growth mindset

These skills will benefit college graduates in any field. However, you can find more skills related to your desired job title in our 251 Resume Skills that Score Interviews” article.

Personalize your college graduate resume with additional sections

Once you’ve written a compelling resume summary, an accomplishment-packed work history and a carefully tailored skills section, all that’s left is adding your contact information and education section . These sections form a great resume, but additional sections can take it to higher levels. As a recent graduate, you likely have an arsenal of experiences that make you a desirable candidate.

Here are some extra resume sections you can include in your college graduate resume:

  • Academic honors
  • Volunteer work
  • Hobbies and interests
  • School associations and clubs
  • Publications
  • Internships
  • Relevant coursework

Although these achievements and qualifications are impressive, you should only add those demonstrating your ability to succeed in that specific job.

What’s the best resume format for a college graduate?

You can use three resume formats to organize and format your resume sections: chronological , functional and combination.

For recent college graduates with little or no experience, the functional or combination formats will be their best options.

Both of these resume formats draw the recruiter’s attention to what you have: a robust skill set and relevant academic achievements while downplaying the number of jobs you’ve had.

If you’re a college graduate with at least ten years of relevant experience, consider using the chronological format , since this will focus directly on the work experience section.

Combination

Chronological, how to choose a resume format.

0-3 Years of experience

Functional format

  • Focuses on skills.
  • Best for recent college graduates without experience.
  • Good for applicants re-entering the workforce.
  • Can omit dates in the work history section.

Organization:

  • Skills go before work experience.

3-10 Years of experience

Combination format

  • Balances skills and work history.
  • Ideal for graduates with some experience.
  • Suitable for recent grads changing careers.
  • Skills next to or above work experience.

10+ Years of experience

Chronological format

  • Focuses most on work history.
  • Best for applicants with long, steady careers.
  • Most popular format.
  • Preferred by recruiters.
  • Work experience listed above skills.

Once you’ve decided on the best resume format for your unique situation, you can find your ideal resume template ! Our professionally-designed resume templates will ensure your presentation is as compelling as your achievements.

Cover letters: a game-changer for college graduates

The cover letter and resume join forces to show employers why you’re suited for the role and deserve this opportunity.

Clear any doubts about your abilities.

If an employer still doubts your capabilities after reading your college graduate resume, a cover letter lets you reassure them you’re aware of your limitations but, more importantly, how you plan to overcome them.

Take control of the narrative.

A cover letter is a flexible document so that you can focus its content on virtually anything. The key is to discuss topics that make hiring managers think you were made for this role. Mention relevant achievements, passion for your field or even career goals.

Write a professional cover letter that hits every mark.

Tailor your cover letter to your desired job’s requirements, show off your personality and demonstrate you’re a perfect company fit.

Although writing a cover letter might seem like a lot of effort, our Cover Letter Builder makes this process easy. Our builder will generate a personalized cover letter in minutes by typing your desired job title, answering simple questions, and choosing a cover letter template .

Similar college graduate resume examples

Browse even more recent college graduate resume examples that suit your specific needs:

Store manager

Receptionist

Project manager

Medical assistant

Certified nursing assistant

More resume examples

  • Academic Adviser (Entry Level)
  • Graduate Research Assistant
  • Academic Program Director
  • Academic Adviser
  • Admissions Counselor
  • Admissions Director
  • Assistant Principal
  • Career Counselor
  • Dean of Students
  • Graduate Assistant
  • Guidance Counselor
  • Health Educator
  • Resident Adviser
  • Resident Assistant

Creating a Resume increases your chances of getting a job by 100%.

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*The names and logos of the companies referred to in this page are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with LiveCareer.

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    What is a cover letter for an internship? Generally speaking, an internship cover letter is a formal document that accompanies your resume when applying for an internship.. When it comes to its content, a cover letter for an internship falls somewhere between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter.. A traditional cover letter, used by job applicants with years of experience, is ...

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