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Executive Cover Letter Examples and Tips for 2024

10 min read

Looking for your next executive role? Cover letters are a necessary evil of the job search process. No one really likes to write them. That’s mainly because most people don't know what to include to make the cover letter worth reading. Before you get started on your executive cover letter, chances are you will have a few burning questions in mind. 

Should you restate your resume?

Should you tell your whole story?

What exactly are hiring managers looking for?

Let us put your mind at rest. Cover letters should be your introduction to the employer. It's your chance to say hello and explain why you would be an asset to the company. As an executive, it's even more important to perfect this part of the process. Your role will be monumental, so your first impression has to be on point.

An executive cover letter should be written in a compelling and professional manner. Be sure to mention your key skills in leadership, people management, and business growth. You can do this by highlighting aspects of your resume or briefly showcasing your story. You may choose to Include a short list of your strongest skills to demonstrate your leadership. 

 If you’re ready to get writing, you’ve come to the right place. A quick way to ensure you can efficiently write cover letters is to have a base template. In the following guide, we will detail everything that you need to know about writing an executive cover letter. Once you’ve read our 10 key tips, you will have no problem creating an application that wins you the interview.

What should an executive cover letter include?

First things first, you need to know what your executive cover letter should include. You have roughly 300-400 words to play with here. However, no hiring manager wants to read a long, meandering letter about your life up until this point. Save that for your memoir. Instead, you need to ensure that your cover letter has a solid structure, as follows: 

Cover letter header

Introduction/hook 

Main paragraphs 

Conclusion 

 Sticking to this format will help your cover letter “flow” well. The hiring manager can quickly gain the information that they need by skimming the document. Much like a story, your cover letter should have a natural narrative. It starts with the beginning, moves seamlessly onto the middle (i.e. the main point), and concludes with a strong ending. If you manage to get that right, you will captivate the hiring manager with your professional history. 

Effective executive cover letter example

 Before we go anything further, let’s start with some inspiration. Below is an executive cover letter example that ticks all of the boxes. Check it out now: 

Why this example excels

There’s a reason that this executive cover letter works so well. The letter includes everything that you would expect from a high-level professional. Here are five things that you may have noticed right from the offset: 

It includes a professional letter format

The heading matches the resume

  It’s short and sweet — one page with three basic paragraphs

  It includes a professional greeting

The content is tailored and to the point

 As a rule, the body of the letter should be no more than three short paragraphs explaining which job you want, why you want it, and why you are qualified to have it. You should support your claims with accomplishments and refer to your resume. 

 If you're starting from scratch, read our related post: Here is What a Good Cover Letter Looks Like . The guide gives you a good overview of how you can get started with your application letter. When you’ve read that, come back here and we will take things to the next level. 

 You know the drill. Hiring managers will expect more of you as you climb the career ladder. As an executive, your cover letter needs to be a cut above the rest. You have to showcase your strongest leadership skills while meeting all of the above requirements. If you create a basic template, you can quickly customize the document with the nine tips below. 

9 Ways to Make Your Cover Letter Stand Out

 Let’s say that you already have the basic structure down. What happens next? The answer is that you level-up your document. Starting at the top of your cover letter, here are nine tips from the executive resume writer team at ZipJob to get your cover letter noticed. 

1. Indicate why you're writing

 You may be writing to express interest in an unadvertised opportunity, but you're most likely writing in response to an open position. In the first paragraph, you should tell the reader exactly which job you are applying for and where you found out about the opening. Many HR offices track adverts and referrals, so it’s important to highlight these details.

But that’s not the part that will grab the reader’s attention. You need a hook. For example, you could list your credentials in the first paragraph to show why you would be an intuitive fit for the company. On the other hand, if you were referred by a person in the company, you can use this point as your hook. Figure out what information will make you stand out here.

An example:

I heard about (the job) from your (Title), (Name), and am eager to apply for the position. My credentials include….

2. Tell your story in a compelling manner

 Language matters when it comes to your executive cover letter. Include your unique value explicitly, yet concisely. That is quite a challenge, but your hard work will pay off. You may use a variation of your elevator pitch, for instance, or a brief summary of why your work experience and qualifications is a perfect fit for the job in question.

To add some color to your cover letter, pick your words wisely. Use compelling verbs and avoid words such as "prepared" and "managed." Those words are passive, dull, and overused: your cover letter should be interesting and tell a compelling story.

3. Focus on up to four important facts

 While your resume should be detailed, cover letters should be brief with only the most intriguing information and the highlights of your leadership story so far. To get that right, you can either showcase your accomplishments in a few paragraphs or bullet form.

Be selective about the accomplishments you include in your cover letter. Felicia Tatum, executive resume writer and CEO of Creative Career Solutions , recommends including “no more than four accomplishments” in your cover letter. “The resume can show the details, let the cover letter show the facts so it entices the reader to look at the resume,” she explains.

4. Showcase your leadership abilities in three lines or less

Using language such as "oversaw," "directed," "executed," "delivered," and "owned" will make your cover letter stronger. Including two to three sentences about your abilities to lead others, lead departments, or lead a company will showcase you as a strong executive.

The first sentence should have your strongest information and senior leadership skills, followed by one or two sentences to strengthen and prove the claims from the first. 

Bullet points are a great way to draw the eye to your best accomplishments. This is only effective when used sparingly, though. Limit the number of bullet points and the number of lines they take up in your cover letter.

5. Provide value through your accomplishments

 As we have already mentioned, listing accomplishments is a quick way to highlight your strengths. However, it’s vital that you also provide evidence to back up any claims that you make. You can do this by including numbers, such as costs saved or costs slashed, or mentioning awards, achievements, or projects you completed.

The more specific you are in your cover letter, the better your chances of success. Show the hiring manager that you’re more than just talk . Providing specific evidence of how you have performed in the past could make all the difference to your application.

Remember to use the same style as your resume so they look like a cohesive application. Use the same resume font , bullet point style, and numbers. That will leave a great impression on your reader, even when you reword the data to make a more persuasive narrative.

 Related read: Using the STAR Method to Create a Superior Resume (+ Examples)

6. Address the reader directly (if you know the name)

 “Remember that a person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any language.”— Dale Carnegie

The more personalized the cover letter, the better it will be received. So, if you know the hiring manager’s name — through online research or even LinkedIn— you should include it now. Addressing them directly is likely to win you some points. Of course, there are times when you won’t know their name and need to use a standardized greeting instead.

Before you start writing your cover letter, do some research. Take a look at the company’s website and LinkedIn page, for example. This is a great way to know the key players and be more prepared to write a customized application. It can also give you clues to the company's goals, visions, current projects, recent media attention, and current leadership team.

7. Include a call to action 

 At the end of your letter, include a call to action. This is the action you’d like the employer to take after reading your letter. Here are some examples of final lines you may use:

“Please contact me at your earliest convenience.”

“I look forward to speaking to you and encourage you to reach out with any questions.”

“Please let me know when you’d like to discuss my resume further.”

Remember, the call to action should always be in the very last sentences before you close out the letter. Make it conversational, but never pushy. It is the hiring manager's job to review applications and contact the best candidates, so be polite without sounding desperate.

8. Add your signature

 It goes without saying that you should include your name to the end of the letter. However, add that personalized, executive touch, paste in your actual signature. It takes minimal effort but can go a long way. The visual impact of your signature carries more weight than you might imagine and will help you to make a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

There are a couple of ways to achieve this look. First up, you can take a picture of your actual signature, scan it to your computer, and upload it to your word processor. Some software, such as Adobe Acrobat, will also allow you to draw your signature directly into the program.

9. Take the time to edit first

 When you’ve done all of the above, you might think you’re ready to hit “send” on your executive cover letter. However, before you do that, there’s one last thing that you should take care of. It’s crucial that you edit your document before you submit it. 

There are two reasons for this. First of all, you need to ensure that no sneaky typos or spelling mistakes have gotten through the net. These errors will put the hiring manager off fast. Secondly, this edit will give you the chance to cut out any content that doesn’t add value to your application. Read through each part of your cover letter and make sure that each element of it will help push your application over the line. 

In conclusion, your executive cover letter should be a short highlight reel that engages the reader. Personalizing your cover letter with your most impressive accomplishments will make it stand out. However, you need to make sure those accomplishments are related to leadership, motivation, and business development. That savvy move will position you as an executive with plenty to offer. 

If you follow the above guidelines, you can write a killer executive cover letter in no time and increase your opportunities for interviews.

Recommended reading:

Please Find Attached My Resume: How to Use This Phrase

How to List an MBA on a Resume (+ Examples)

7 Tips for Writing A Cold Email for a Job (+ Examples)

Charlotte Grainger, Editor & Content Writer, Charlotte Grainger, Editor & Content Writer

Charlotte Grainger is a freelance writer living and working in Sheffield, UK. She has a passion for career development and loves sharing tips and advice. Follow her on Twitter

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Executive Manager Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Navigating the mysterious waters of writing an executive manager cover letter , you might feel like a sailor without a compass. But, did you know this particular document can be your secret weapon in the competitive job application process?

So, buckle up. Let's zero in on some helpful tips and real-world examples to take your cover letter game up a notch. With the right guidance, you'll be set to create a cover letter that's clear, compelling, and highly effective.

Read on and learn about:

• Formatting your executive manager cover letter
• Building a header that stands out
• Creating a headline that succinctly captures your experience and goals
• Personalizing your greeting to suit the executive manager position
• Crafting an impactful opening statement
• Showcasing your most valuable managerial skills and accomplishments
• Concluding your cover letter with a persuasive call to action
• Avoiding common mistakes found in executive manager cover letters
• Staying informed about salary expectations and job outlook for executive managers
• Leveraging the best resources throughout your job search

1. How to properly format your executive manager cover letter

Consider your executive manager cover letter as a one-page opportunity to make an impact . Clean, clear, and concise are our watchwords as we uncover how to format your cover letter for maximum readability and effectiveness.

• Simplicity is key: Aim to fit your letter onto one page. No prospective employer wishes to embark on a Tolkien-sized reading journey. 
• Font choice: Stick to professional, accessible fonts like Arial or Times New Roman, and keep the size between 10-12 points. We're all grateful when we can read without squinting.
• Space it out: Just like in a well-designed office, white space matters. Keep your margins to the standard 1 inch on all sides. A crowded cover letter can overwhelm even the most eager readers.
• Sectioning, your new best friend: Separate your thoughts clearly. Divide your cover letter into 3-4 neat paragraphs. This helps guide your reader in identifying key information quickly. 
• Keep it snappy: Concise sentences keep things fresh. Aim for 15-20 words max per sentence. Your reader will thank you for this. 
• Stay positive: Sign off your cover letter with a positive and forward-thinking note. Keep the glass not just half-full, but brimming. 
• Professional touch: And don't forget a signature. It may feel old-school, but it adds a professional flair to the document. 

That's it. Properly formatted, your executive manager cover letter should now be easier to skim than a summer beach novel. Now, let's fill in the blanks.

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2. how to write an effective header for your cover letter.

Let's make an impression right from the get-go. The header, which sits swaying proudly at the top of your cover letter , is where your key contact information squares off with the recipient's details — it's like a business card holding the essential details in one quick scan.

Your header should contain:

• Professional title (if applicable)
• Your address
• Contact number
• Professional email address
• Recipient’s name
• Recipient’s job title
• Company name
• Company address

Now, let's take a gander at an incorrect and a correct example:

Incorrect cover letter header example

Don Smith donathotmail.com January 30, 2023 HR Dept.

Why is this weak? It shows a notable lack of key elements. Without a professional email or full recipient details, this header would struggle to cross the basics line.

Correct cover letter header example

Don Smith Executive Manager 123 Bridge St, Albany, NY 12202 (518) 123-4568 [email protected]

January 30, 2023

To: Margaret Atkins Human Resources Manager ABC Corporation 456 Main St, Albany, NY 12203

Why does it work? In the improved version, Don's header ticks all the boxes. Complete contact information, current date, and comprehensive recipient details solidly anchor this header, giving it a professional touch.

Remember, a well-written header not only adheres to professional etiquette but also paves the way for smooth communication. It's the handshake before the conversation has even started.

3. How to craft a strong headline for your executive manager cover letter

Up next, we'll talk about the headline. Think of it as your cover letter's marquee — a mini-summary that captures the essence of who you are and what you're gunning for. Avoid vague statements. Direct and detailed always make a better impression .

A strong headline should pack in:

• Your current role or job title
• Your area of expertise or specialization
• A glimpse of your unique value proposition

To better illustrate this, let's take a look at two contrasting examples:

Weak cover letter headline example

Experienced Manager Applying for Job

Why is this headline weak? Well, it's not a misstep, but it falls flat rather quickly. It lacks specificity and does little to distinguish you from other candidates.

Strong cover letter headline example

Proven Executive Manager Specializing in Strategic Growth and Team Leadership

Why does it work? Now, this is more like it. This headline captures your role, underlines expertise in key areas, and screams "I'm what you're looking for!" without checking any cliche boxes.

Remember, a thoughtfully crafted headline could turn a quick skim into a thorough reading . It's your opportunity to cement your worth from the get-go, so seize it.

4. How to tailor the greeting on your executive manager cover letter

Confession time: Generic greetings are the sweatpants of job applications — comfy but not suitable for every occasion. 

When you're aiming for an executive manager position , They deserve to be addressed properly. After all, you wouldn’t start a dialogue with, “Hey you,” would you?

Customizing your greeting by addressing the hiring manager personally sets you apart. It screams, "I've done my homework!" while giving your letter a professional and respectful tone. 

But, where to find that name? Try the job description , company website , or LinkedIn . If you're a real detective, industry networking sites or press releases might hold the key.

Personalized greeting examples

Dear Mrs. Atkins, Dear Mrs. Mary Atkins, Dear Hiring Manager Mary Atkins,

But what happens if the hiring manager's name remains under wraps like a highly classified secret? In that case, stick to something professional and neutral.

General greeting examples

Dear Hiring Manager, Dear ABC Corporation Recruitment Team,

And remember, despite its past popularity, it's best to steer clear from "To Whom It May Concern." In today's job market, it can appear impersonal and antiquated. So, reserve it as a piece for the museum and opt for our suggested greetings instead.

All in all, getting the greeting right sets the tone. When opportunity doesn’t knock, let's build a door by customizing your cover letter greeting.

5. How to craft a powerful cover letter introduction

Let's set the stage with a solid introduction . In the world of letter writing, your introduction is your first pitch to the reader . Picture a networking event where you only have a handful of seconds to introduce yourself. The spotlight's on you — what's your opening line?

A captivating introduction includes:

• A concise overview of your professional history
• Relevant academic background (if applicable)
• Your reason for applying for the position
• A mention of any mutual contact or referral, if applicable

Now, let's examine three diverse scenarios,

Incorrect cover letter introduction example

I am applying for the executive manager position I found on a job board. I have vast experience in this field.

Why doesn’t it work? Well, you might as well say you like long walks on the beach. Such an introduction lacks specificity, enthusiasm, and fails to differentiate the applicant.

Correct cover letter introduction example for an experienced executive manager

Having led operational growth as an executive manager for over a decade, I was thrilled to learn of the opening at ABC Corporation from our mutual contact, John Doe. ABC’s commitment to forward-thinking strategies compliments my professional trajectory, making this opportunity an exciting prospect.

Why is this an effective intro? Here, the introduction not only ties the candidate's extensive experience to the job at hand but also establishes a shared connection, adding a personal touch while exemplifying the candidate's network within the industry.

But what if you’re fresh out of school ? If you’re wondering how to make an instant impact with your executive manager cover letter, here’s an example tailored for you.

Correct cover letter introduction example for a fresh graduate

As a business management graduate from XYZ University with substantial internships at eminent establishments, I’m eager to apply my learned acumen to the executive manager position at ABC Corporation. A passionate believer in encouraging innovation, I find ABC’s forward-thinking approach appealing.

Why does it work? This opening strikes gold for a fresh graduate. It highlights relevant education and internships, while also establishing a connection with the company's values.

Whether you're an industry veteran or a fresh talent, your introduction can make or break the reader's interest. And so, like a primetime telecast intro, make it worth sticking around for.

6. How to highlighting your top skills and accomplishments

Once you've set the stage with a firm handshake of an introduction, it's time to walk the talk. The body of your cover letter can be likened to the core of your conversation. 

It is here you substantiate your headline and introduction with the ripe fruits of your skills and accomplishments .

For an executive manager cover letter, emphasis on leadership and organization, strategic planning, excellence in communication, project management, and teamwork can set you apart from the crowd. 

Here are some skills you might want to mention in your cover letter

• Strategic planning and execution
• Leadership and team management
• Budget development and oversight
• Business development
• Client relationship management 

Let's take a look at an example of a cover letter body from an experienced executive manager seeking a new challenge:

Cover letter body paragraph example for an experienced executive manager

As the Executive Manager at XYZ corporation, I led my team to surpass productivity targets by 30% for three consecutive quarters, a performance improvement linked to the strategic plans I implemented. I also spearheaded a client engagement initiative which bolstered customer retention by 20% within six months.

Why does it work? This paragraph shows clear evidence of leadership, strategic planning, and client relations skills — all critical for an executive manager role.

Ah, but what if you're a greenhorn in the executive manager field? Fear not. A fresh graduate can focus on skills garnered during internships , academic projects , part-time jobs , or extracurricular activities . 

It's about demonstrating transferable skills — those valuable nuggets that may not be job-specific but are certainly job-relevant. 

Cover letter body paragraph example for a recent graduate

During a summer internship at ABC Corporation, I collaborated on a project which optimized workflow efficiency, saving 10 hours of work per week. As a final year student, I led a team of five members for a business analysis project that proposed strategic solutions for a local small business, grading us an A+ for the effort.

Why is it effective? This paragraph showcases teamwork, leadership, strategic thinking, and practical application of business knowledge, making it relatable to the executive manager’s role, despite the lack of formal job experience.

So, whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, remember — the body of your cover letter is where you transform 'who you are' into 'why you're the right pick.' Think of it as painting a picture that makes the viewer want to invest in the artist. Make every stroke count!

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7. How to end your executive manager cover letter persuasively

The conclusion of your cover letter is your final opportunity to hover on the reader's mind long after they've swiveled away from your application.

A persuasive conclusion should include:

• A direct, executive-style summary of your pitch
• How and when you can be best contacted
• A statement manifesting your initiative to follow up 
• And of course, a courteous, professional sign-off 

Let's explore two examples — one with room for improvement, and another that hits the right notes:

Incorrect cover letter conclusion example

I believe I could be a good fit for your team, do get in touch if you feel the same. Look forward to hearing from you.

[Your Name]

Why is this a weak conclusion? While this conclusion isn't egregious, it falls into the trap of being too passive and lacks a clear follow-up plan, making it seem more like a hopeful wish than an assertive closing statement.

Correct cover letter conclusion example

In conclusion, my strategic leadership skills and proven track record of driving operational growth make me a strong fit for the Executive Manager role at ABC Corporation. 

I'm eager to discuss how I may contribute to your goals. I’ll follow up with your office next week to explore the possibility of scheduling a meeting. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Why is this a strong conclusion? This one hits the sweet spot. It summarizes the candidate's pitch, specifies follow-up plans, offers thanks, and ends in a professional note.

Crafting the conclusion of your executive manager cover letter is akin to the closing arguments in a court case — it should drive your point home convincingly.

8. How to avoid common mistakes on your executive manager cover letter

Navigating the labyrinth of cover letter writing, you might just trip over a stumbling block or two. Fear not, we're here to help you sidestep the common pitfalls that could blemish your executive manager cover letter. 

Here are some common landmines and how you can steer clear of them:

• Lengthy narration: Stay away from turning your cover letter into an autobiography. Keep it concise, relevant, and remember — it's not about your life story; it's about what you bring to the table.
• Lack of customization: A one-size-fits-all cover letter screams laziness. Tailor each cover letter to the specific company and role. 
• Rehashing your resume: Avoid repeating your resume in prose. Instead, build a narrative that underscores your skills and achievements in a new light.
• Passive voice: Stick with active voice for a more direct, compelling tone.
• Typos and grammar errors: As much it pains to state the obvious, sloppy errors can shoot your chances in the foot. Proofread , use spell-check, then proofread again. 

Remember, your cover letter isn't just a formality; it's potentially your ticket to a job interview. Keep it clean. Keep it sharp.

9. Average salary and job outlook for executive managers

Navigating the career landscape as an executive manager? Let's talk numbers. According to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the average yearly salary for executive managers was $100,090 as of May 2022. Not bad for navigating the corporate seas, right?

But let's not stop at the dollar signs. The potential growth in this field also paints an encouraging picture. Employment for top executives, which includes executive managers, is projected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032. To put it in perspective, that's on par with the average growth rate for all occupations.

If you're looking to navigate the sea of opportunities, there's more good news. An average of 311,600 job openings for top executives are projected each year over the coming decade. So it appears the winds are set fair for a journey into executive management.

Remember, these are averages and real salaries can vary widely depending on industry, location, experience, and the size of the company. Still, it offers a general lay of the land as you plot your career course.

10. Job seeking resources for executive managers: A simple roadmap

Embarking on the job hunt in the world of executive management isn't for the faint of heart, but a well-prepped applicant can turn it from an odyssey into a strategic exercise. The key is knowing where to look. 

• Executive job boards: Websites like Executives On The Web , Exec-appointments.com , and TheLadders are brimming with executive roles. You'll find positions across industries from healthcare to finance, retail to technology. Each site offers filters — such as location, sector, or salary range — to streamline your job search. Another plus? These sites often present global opportunities. 
• LinkedIn: More than half a billion people use LinkedIn to advance their careers. It's an ocean of possibilities. It's not just job postings, which can be filtered by location, industry, and job function. It’s about building a network of industry movers and shakers, sharing your expertise, and establishing your brand in the management field. 
• Executive headhunters: These talent-scouting wolves are contracted by organizations to find your sheep-like excellence in the wilderness. Agencies like Korn Ferry , Heidrick & Struggles , and Spencer Stuart specifically deal with management and executive-level positions. They have inside information on positions that are often never advertised publicly. 
• Industry events: Platforms like Eventbrite and MeetUp , or industry-specific association websites, list a wealth of networking events, conferences, and workshops.
• Professional development courses:  Upskilling never goes out of style in the world of executive management. Platforms like Coursera , Udemy , and Harvard Business School Online offer high-quality courses designed to refresh your skillset and stay abreast of industry trends. Whether it's leadership strategies or data analytics, continuous learning could just be the propeller speeding up your next job pursuit.

Keep in mind, job searching is more of a journey than a one-time event. Set your course with your polished resume , optimized LinkedIn profile , and updated industry knowledge. Happy job hunting, executive managers!

Executive Manager Cover Letter FAQ

Aim to keep your cover letter concise and to the point. Usually, three to four succinct paragraphs are enough to convey your message effectively without losing the reader's attention.

While it's crucial to let your personality shine in your cover letter, humor can be subjective. Use it sparingly and wisely – ensuring it aligns with the nature and culture of the company you're applying to.

Yes, each cover letter should be customized to the specific role and company you're applying to. Highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to each position.

Unless the job application specifically asks for your salary expectations, it's best to leave that discussion for a later stage in the process where you can negotiate after gauging interest.

Be honest about your employment history. If there are short stints, focus on the range of experiences and skills you have acquired through these

Martin Poduška

Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .

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How Long Should a Cover Letter Be in 2024?

Finally, an organization posted your dream job. You crafted a flawless resume and now you’re ready to apply. You land on the cover letter section of the application and see that it is optional. Is it truly optional?

Will not submitting make me less likely to land the job? Where do I even start and how long should the cover letter be?

These are some things that might run through your head. But don’t panic, we are here to help. No matter what your career level is, your cover letter can set you apart from the other applicants. But how much do you have to write?

This can be a complicated question. Too much text? The hiring manager might glance over it. Too short? The recruiter may think that you didn’t put much thought or effort into writing the cover letter . 

Cover letters should range from a half-page to one full page. Your cover letter should never exceed one page in length.

• Page Count: 0.5 to 1
• Word count: 250 to 400
• Paragraph count: 3 to 6

How to Keep Your Cover Letter to One Page

Tip #1: keep it concise.

While the cover letter is a great way to showcase your personality, it is also very important to be concise. Hiring managers are sifting through dozens, and maybe even hundreds, of applications.

They do not have time to read a full two-page article about your daily tasks. Instead, highlight any relevant experiences that show your qualifications for the specific job.

Demonstrate your passion for the industry and end the letter. The decision-maker will appreciate your brevity and may even reward you with an interview . 

Tip #2: Highlight Only Relevant Experiences

Unless the employer requests a specific word count, keep it short. Take only the amount of space required to show that you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Highlight your qualifications and any relevant stories. It’s important to be specific, and not regurgitate the content on your resume. 

It is very important here to showcase how your past achievements can help the company solve their current challenges and how you will use your skills if chosen for the position.

Doing so will show the recruiter or hiring manager the value you can bring to their organization. 

Tip #3: Break Your Cover Letter into Sections

An effective cover letter contains three to four paragraphs. It’s important to keep the sentences short so the reader can quickly navigate your cover letter.  

Paragraph #1: The Intro

The first paragraph should grab the decision-maker’s attention. This is an opportunity to show your interest in the position and knowledge of the company. Make sure you address your cover letter to the correct person or department. Always be sure to research the company and customize each cover letter to the position you are applying for. 

Example: “I am excited to submit my application for the position of [insert position name] with [insert company name]. I have watched your growth for years and really appreciate the devotion to serving your customer’s needs.” 

Paragraph #2: Your Qualifications

The second paragraph should highlight relevant stories or stats that impress your qualifications. For example, “In the previous company, I grew sales by 150% in my first year and 200% in my second year.” It is helpful if you can be specific in how you achieved success or benefited the company in some way. This highlights what you bring to the table and how you can make an impact on the hiring manager’s business. 

Paragraph #3: Your Interest in the Company

The third paragraph, if you choose to include it, can speak to what drew you to apply to the specific company. This can sway the hiring manager's decision by showing passion and loyalty to the company. 

Paragraph #4: The Closing

The final paragraph should reiterate your interest in the position. It is a great time to thank the reader for their consideration and request an in-person meeting. It’s important to have a call-to-action so the reader knows what to do next. Always include detailed contact information. 

Tip #4: Experience Level

Cover letters can vary based on your experience level. If you are applying for jobs right out of college, don’t include metrics measured in school, such as GPA, unless requested. Instead, focus on your experiences, projects and achievements that make you a strong candidate. 

If you are in the middle of your career, pick out relevant accomplishments and state your experience level. For example, “With 12 years of teaching experience, I am writing to express my interest in the open position in your Mathematics Department.” 

If you have more experience, you likely have more relevant qualifications and stories. This may entice you to make your cover letter longer. Do not fall into the trap.

Longer does not mean better . Select a few key successes and leave others for the interview process. 

Tip #5: Formatting

The format is just as important as the length of your cover letter. Pay attention to the amount of white space on the page. More white space keeps the content easier to read for the recruiter or hiring manager.

You want to make sure that you use a font that is legible (as the ones handpicked by our team together with recruiters). Keep standard margins and align your text to the left. 

Writing a cover letter can be intimidating. If you remember to keep your writing concise and highlight only your relevant experiences, you will be on your way to snagging an interview in no time.

Suggested Reading:

• How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024
• Resume Formats Guide: How to Pick the Best in 2024
• Cover Letter Examples

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