cv in application letter

12 CV cover letter examples

A cover letter for your CV, or covering note is an introductory message that accompanies your CV when applying for a job.

The purpose of the cover letter is simple… Persuade the reader to open your CV.

Learn how to write a cover letter properly, and you will hugely increase your chances of getting responses and landing job interviews.

This guide, with 12 annotated cover letter examples will show you everything you need to know about creating a winning cover note.

CV templates

How to layout a cover letter for your CV

This annotated example of a cover letter shows you how you should structure your cover letters, and the type of information you should be including.

You should always write your CV in the body of your email (or j ob site messaging system) so that it can be read instantly. Never attach it as a separate document, or the recipient probably won’t open it.

Example CV cover letters

These 11 example CV cover letters from a range of industries should give you some good inspiration for creating your own cover letter.

Admin CV cover letter

This cover letter is aimed at administrative roles , so it highlights the candidate’s abilities in efficiency, report writing and meeting deadlines, whilst demonstrating the types of environments they have worked in.

Learn how to write a cover letter step-by-step here.

Customer service CV cover letter

This customer service cover letter briefly explains the candidate’s length of experience in the field and highlights some of the more important customer service skills such as call handling, order taking and complaint resolution.

This gives the reader an excellent introduction to the candidate and should certainly encourage them to open the CV.

See our full customer service cover letter guide, sales assistant cover letter example and waiter/waitress cover letter example .

Finance CV cover letter

As a finance professional, it’s important to highlight your specialisms within finance, the types of companies you’ve worked for, and high level functions you’ve carried out within your cover letter. This will give the hiring manager a good overall feel of your abilities, and if it’s well tailored to the role, should provide them with enough info to excite them about your CV.

Quick tip: Use our job application tracker spreadsheet to track your applications and follow up with employers who don’t respond.

Build your CV now

Events CV cover letter

This events manager candidate has done a great job of summarising the type and size of events they manage, along with details of core skills such as leadership, project delivery and stakeholder management.

This certainly provides enough info to create a buzz around the CV attached and encourage the recipient to open it.

Executive assistant CV cover letter

Executive assistant cover letter example

This executive assistant CV cover letter provides a good high level intro to the candidate showing the reader key business support knowledge in areas such as admin, diary management and document management. It also shows that the candidate is confident supporting senior business figures.

Graduate CV cover letter

As a graduate , your cover letter will need to be a little longer than an experienced candidates, to compensate for your lack of experience and really sell yourself.

This candidate speaks in lots of detail about their education, qualifications, and extra-curricular work which relates to the roles they are applying for.

IT CV cover letter

As an IT candidate, it’s important not only to highlight your technical skills, but also show how you apply those skills in the workplace to translate real benefits for your employer.

This candidate gives a good overview of the candidates technical abilities and the types of projects they apply them to, along with results they achieve.

Marketing CV cover letter

This marketing cover letter provides readers with a summary of the candidate’s core marketing abilities such as media planning, brand awareness and cost reduction. It also explains the types of marketing campaigns and companies they have experience with – a great high-level intro.

Cover letter examples

Warehouse Operative cover letter – Training Contract cover letter – Cleaning Job cover letter – Nursery Assistant cover letter – Recruitment Consultant cover letter – Dental Nurse cover letter –

Chef cover letter – Editorial Assistant cover letter – Aircraft Mechanic cover letter – Biomedical Science cover letter – Cabin Crew cover letter – Finance Assistant cover letter – Hotel Receptionist cover letter – Asset Management cover letter – Assistant Psychologist cover letter – Beauty Therapist cover letter – Cafe Worker cover letter – HR Administrator cover letter – NQT cover letter – Quantity Surveyor cover letter

More cover letter examples

Academic cover letter
Account Manager cover letter
Accountant cover letter
Accounting cover letter
Accounts Assistant cover letter
Acting cover letter
Admin Assistant cover letter
Administrator cover letter
Apprenticeship cover letter
Architecture cover letter
Assistant Manager cover letter
Banking cover letter
Bar Staff cover letter
Barclays cover letter
Barista cover letter
Bartender cover letter
Business Analyst cover letter
Business Development Manager cover letter
Car Sales Person cover letter
Care Assistant cover letter
Career Change cover letter
Catering Assistant cover letter
Civil Engineer cover letter
Computer Science cover letter
Consulting cover letter
Copywriter cover letter
Cyber Security cover letter
Data Entry Clerk cover letter
Data Scientist cover letter
Delivery Driver cover letter
Digital Marketing cover letter
Electrician cover letter
Engineering cover letter
Estate Agent cover letter
Event Manager cover letter
Exam Invigilator cover letter
Executive Assistant cover letter
Fashion Designer cover letter
Finance cover letter
Financial Analyst cover letter
Google cover letter
Graduate cover letter
Graduate Engineer cover letter
Graduate Scheme cover letter
Graphic Design cover letter
Health Care Assistant cover letter
Hospitality cover letter
HR Assistant cover letter
HR cover letter
Interior Designer cover letter
Internal Position cover letter
Internship cover letter
Investment Banking cover letter
Investment Manager cover letter
IT Support cover letter
Journalist cover letter
JP Morgan cover letter
Lawyer cover letter
Legal Assistant cover letter
Legal cover letter
Library Assistant cover letter
Manager cover letter
Marine Engineer cover letter
Marketing Assistant cover letter
Marketing cover letter
Marketing Intern cover letter
Marketing Manager cover letter
McKinsey cover letter
Mechanical Engineer cover letter
Medical Receptionist cover letter
Medical Writer cover letter
Model cover letter
Nanny cover letter
Nurse cover letter
Nursing cover letter
Office Assistant cover letter
Office Manager cover letter
Operations Manager cover letter
Optical Assistant cover letter
Paralegal cover letter
Part Time cover letter
PE Teacher cover letter
Personal Assistant cover letter
Personal Trainer cover letter
Pharmacist cover letter
Pharmacy Assistant cover letter
PHD Application cover letter
Photographer cover letter
Placement cover letter
Private Equity cover letter
Product Manager cover letter
Production Assistant cover letter
Production Operator cover letter
Project Coordinator cover letter
Promotion cover letter
PWC cover letter
Quantity Surveyor cover letter
Receptionist cover letter
Research Assistant cover letter
Researcher cover letter
Retail Assistant cover letter
Retail cover letter
Retail Manager cover letter
Sales Advisor cover letter
Sales Executive cover letter
Sales Manager cover letter
Scrum Master cover letter
Security Officer cover letter
Ski Season cover letter
Social Media Executive cover letter
Social Media Manager cover letter
Software Developer cover letter
Software Engineer cover letter
Speculative cover letter
Student cover letter
Support Worker cover letter
Teaching Assistant cover letter
Team Leader cover letter
Trainee Dental Nurse cover letter
University cover letter
UX Designer cover letter
Volunteer cover letter

Project manager CV cover letter

A project manager’ s cover letter needs to quickly explain to recipients the types of projects they lead and the technical expertise they bring to the projects. It’s also important to describe level of experience, seniority and background.

See full project manager cover letter example + writing guide

Operations manager cover letter

This operations management CV provides a brief introduction to the types of operations the candidate manages and the firms they work for.

They also touch upon some core operations skills such as efficiency, logistics and ROI improvement.

Sales CV cover letter

As a sales candidate, this cover letter shows the types of business this person can generate and the size and scale of the impact they create by highlighting some sales results.

It also mentions some core sales skills like business development, presenting, working under pressure and closing deals.

Cover letter templates

Teacher cover letter

This teacher cover letter does a great job of introducing the candidate, and showing the recipient the key facts they will be looking for, such as; the age group they teach, subject specialisms, and the results they have achieved.

The cover letter is brief and gets to the point quickly, so that readers will instantly look to open the attached CV .

How to write your CV cover letter

Now that you’ve seem good examples of cover letters to accompany your CV (or resume if you are in the USA) this guide will show exactly how to write your own, and the content that needs to be included .

Send your CV cover letter in email format (when possible)

When applying for jobs online you usually have 2 choices…

1) Send a message via the job website’s messaging system

2) Send the recruiter an email directly

If you can find an email address for the recruiter, then I would always recommend sending an email directly because it gives you more control.

When you send a message through a job website, it will transfer into an email with basic formatting and an auto-generated headline , which will look like this when the recruiter receives it.

If you cannot find an email address for the recruiter on the job advert, then try searching LinkedIn or the company website to find the relevant contact.

You may not always be able to find an email address, but when you can – always send a job application by email .

Make your subject line appealing

As you can see in the picture above, a bad subject line can kill your chances of actually having your email read in the first place.

Your subject line should stand out and give the recruiter a reason to open your email.

When recruiters look into their inbox, they are looking for one thing; a candidate who can do the job they are advertising – so give that to them in your subject line.

Your subject line should be a short summary of your experience that relates directly to the job you are applying for.

The following are good subject line examples;

KS2 Teacher with 5 years experience

Front End Web developer with HTML, HTML & JavaScript experience

Junior Graphic designer with 1st BA Hons Graphic Design

If your subject line shows that you have one or two of the most important requirements for the job, your email should get opened every time.

Address the recruiter by name

To get the relationship off on the right foot, you should try to address the recruiter by name if you can.

Often the recruiter’s details will appear on the job advert but sometimes you may have to check out the company website or do some digging around on LinkedIn.

If you really can’t find the name, then it’s not the end of the world – just start with a simple friendly opening like “ Hi ”

(If you applying to a more traditional organisation such as an academic post for a university, you may want to use something a bit more formal like “ Dear sir or madam ”)

Use a friendly yet professional tone

It’s important to sound professional when writing a cover letter but you also need to demonstrate your ability to communicate with other people and show some personality.

If your email is too casual and written in an over-familiar tone, then you will come across us un-professional.

But on the other hand, if your email is too formal and shows no signs of rapport building, you risk appearing as somebody who lacks social skills.

So when writing your cover letter, try to strike a nice balance of professionalism and friendliness.

Opening with a line such as “ hope you’re well ” is a nice way to breathe a bit of personality into your cover letter.

Ensure that your spelling and grammar is perfect throughout your cover letter because sloppy mistakes are a huge red flag for recruiters.

Quick tip: If you struggle with spelling and grammar, try our quick-and-easy CV Builder

Keep it brief

Unless the job advert specifies otherwise; keep your cover letter short and sweet.

Recruiters and employers receive hundreds of job applications per week, so they don’t want to read a 2 page cover letter.

Depending on the role, around 2-4 sentences should be enough for the content of the cover letter.

You just need to write enough to persuade them to open your CV – It should roughly contain the same amount of information as your CV profile or personal statement.

Show how your skills match the job

To ensure that recruiters open your CV, you simply need to explain how your skills and experience match the job requirements from the advert.

Scan the job advert to discover what the most important candidate abilities are, and show how your previous experience has prepared you to cover these.

In particular, look out for any requirements that are essential to the job .

Focus on what you have to offer at this stage and not what you want.

At this stage, your covering letter is simply a means of getting the recruiter to open your CV, so it’s too early to talk about salary demands etc. Save that for your initial conversation with the recruiter.

Include a professional signature

End your cover letter with a friendly salutation such as “Regards” and a smart signature which includes your name and most direct contact method (usually mobile phone for most people)

A professional email signature will show recruiters that you understand business-email etiquette and ensure they have a means of contacting you – even if they can’t open your CV for any reason.

Writing a CV cover letter

Hopefully this guide has given you everything you need to create a winning cover letter that will ensure you CV gets opened every time you send it.

Just remember to keep it brief, be friendly, tailor it towards your target role, and give recruiters some good reasons to be interested in you.

Good luck with the job hunt!

Cover Letter

How to Write an Application Letter—Examples & Guide

Embarking on the job-hunting journey? A great letter of application can be your golden ticket to stand out in the competitive job market. Learn how to write one with our guide.

Here we go again… Another job posting, another letter. This time it’s a letter of application.

But don’t worry. You’ve probably written dozens of application letter already, you just don’t know it yet. After you read this article, you’ll never sigh at the sight of another letter of application.

This guide will show you:

An application letter sample for any position that’s better than most others out there.
Step-by-step guide on how to write an application letter for a job.
Tips on setting the proper letter of application format.

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 20+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Want to learn more about job application documents? Read our other cover letter guides:

Cover Letter for a Career Change
Cover Letter for Non-Profits
Cover Letter for Retail Jobs
Cover Letter Guide for IT Positions
Entry-Level Cover Letter Example
General Cover Letter Guide
Internship Cover Letter
Marketing Cover Letter Guide
Recent Graduate Cover Letter Sample
What Does a Cover Letter Look Like?

What Is a Letter of Application?

A letter of application is intended to introduce yourself and explain why you're interested in the position. Also known as a cover letter, it is sent with your resume when applying for a job. An application letter allows you to showcase your qualifications and skills alongside your enthusiasm.

Now let’s look at what a professional letter of application looks like:

Letter of Application Example

Vinícius Cunha Pinto

UX Researcher

2496 Bassell Avenue

Little Rock, AR 72201

501-626-5744

viní[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/viní-cunha-pinto

Sherwood, 1/10/2021

Mr. Antonio Strife

Hewlett-Packard Company

232 Pumice Dr

Sherwood, AR 72120

Dear Mr. Strife

I am excited to apply for the UX researcher position at Hewlett-Packard. As a UX researcher with over six years of experience in the field, I am confident that my expertise and passion for user-centered design make me an excellent candidate for this role. In my previous position at AG Group, I increased user engagement with our app by 45%.

Another one of my biggest accomplishments was leading a research project identifying several usability issues in our company's mobile app. I worked with the design team to create solutions to these issues, resulting in a 30% increase in user satisfaction. I was also responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and developing marketing pages for our company’s website and directly contributed to over 60% increase in revenue. Furthermore, I am skilled in conducting user interviews, usability tests, surveys, and data analysis and proficient in various research tools, such as Optimal Workshop, UserTesting.com, and Qualtrics.

I am particularly drawn to Hewlett-Packard because of its reputation for innovation and commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology. Your company's dedication to delivering cutting-edge solutions aligns perfectly with my passion for staying at the forefront of UX research and design. I am eager to bring my skills and insights to a dynamic organization like Hewlett-Packard, where I can contribute to pioneering advancements in user experiences. The collaborative and forward-thinking culture at Hewlett-Packard resonates with my professional values, and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing to your team's success.

Working for Hewlett-Packard would be a wonderful opportunity for me. I would love to join your team and contribute to creating exceptional user experiences for your customers. Can we schedule a meeting, so I can tell you more about the UX solutions I can bring to your company?

P.S.— I’d also love to tell you about how I worked with the development team to implement design changes that reduced user errors by 75%.

Using this example, let’s now go through the entire process of writing a letter of application.

How to Write a Letter of Application

Follow the instructions below to create a professional yet simple job application letter:

1. Use the Right Format of an Application Letter for a Job

Before your job application reaches the recruiter, it’ll most likely need to go through an automated ATS scan . And to ensure everything is read correctly, your application letter requires clear and clean formatting.

To format your letter of application correctly, follow these guidelines:

Use the same font you chose for your resume .
Left-align all content.
Keep your application letter length to only one page.
Just like with your resume margins , set them to 1-inch on your job application letter as well.
Leave ample white space by using double-spacing between paragraphs and setting line spacing to 1.15.

Also, save your letter of application for a job in a PDF format unless instructed otherwise. This will keep your formatting and the general layout of the document intact.

Expert Hint : You may think that sending just your resume is enough. But in truth, that’s a very wrong way to think. Letters of application are essential in the job market, so don’t risk losing to other candidates just because you didn’t write one.

2. Address Your Letter of Application Properly

Addressing an application letter is simple. Firstly, include your contact information in the header of the application letter :

Full address
Telephone number
LinkedIn profile (optional)
Current date

Then, put your hiring manager’s and their company’s info underneath it. Use:

Recruiter’s full name
Recruiter’s job title
Company’s name
Company’s address

And lastly, greet your hiring manager by using an honorific (Mr. Ms.) and their full name. Take a look at the example below to visualize:

Letter of Application Example—Address

Mr. James Stipe

There is one challenge waiting for you in this first part. Finding out the name of your recruiter. If the company put it out in the job ad, you’re golden. If it didn’t, there are a couple of ways to try and discover it on your own. You can check the company’s website or LinkedIn profile for starters. If you still drew a blank, reach out to an employee of the company and ask them. LinkedIn makes it super easy.

If everything fails, you’ll have to resort to a generalized salutation. “Dear Hiring Manager” is a great solution.

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

3. Open Up With an Enticing First Paragraph

Next up, you need to capture the recruiter’s attention. So put your best foot forward in the first paragraph.

This is how the letter of application should start :

Show you’re enthusiastic about applying for the position.
Present your most impressive professional work achievement .
Identify the company and the position you’re applying for by name.

Here’s what it looks like:

Sample Application Letter for a Job—First Paragraph

I am writing to apply for the UX Researcher/Developer position advertised on your website. I have over 6 years of experience and am skilled in various UX research methods. Furthermore, I have a proven track of increasing user engagement.

In theory, both of these examples present the same candidate. But the difference in said presentation makes the second sample bite the dust.

Candidate #2 doesn’t check any of the aforementioned boxes, and it shows. He has no enthusiasm, no measurable achievement to catch the eye, and he doesn’t even mention the company by name, meaning he probably sent the same letter of application to hundreds of other jobs.

But not everyone can show a work achievement straight away. If you’re applying for your first job, focus on the two other aspects of your application letter’s first paragraph. Like so:

Example of an Application Letter with No Experience—First Paragraph

As a recent graduate in Human-Computer Interaction, I am excited to apply for the Junior UX Researcher position at Hewlett-Packard. I have been following your company's work for some time now, and I am impressed with your commitment to improving the user experience through extensive research and testing. As a passionate and detail-oriented researcher, I am confident that my skills and knowledge will make me an excellent fit for your team.

And that’s a great way to introduce yourself when writing a letter of application with no experience .

Expert Hint: Job application letters build a connection with the employer by introducing yourself in a good light. One very effective tactic is to research the company’s mission and values and refer to them in your letter of application.

4. Prove Your Expertise in the Main Body

Now that you’ve hooked the recruiter, it’s time to reel them in. Metaphorically, of course.

There are a lot of different things you can include in a letter of application . But all of them must share a certain similarity. They have to be relevant to the position you’re applying for. And that’s especially true in the main body section of the job application letter. Why? Because here, you’ll list some enticing work achievements and work skills you possess.

You can see this in the following example:

How to Write an Application Letter—Main Body Section Example

I have experience working in UX research and am confident in learning and adapting quickly to new technologies and methodologies. I can use many tools, including MS Excel. Outside my many UX accomplishments, I have also worked as a sales representative, furthering my vast skills portfolio.

See what lack of relevance and quantified achievements do to a letter of application? The second candidate could best fit the position, but he will not get picked with that paragraph.

On the other hand, in the first example, relevance guides our candidate. He doesn’t bother talking about their previous job in a different field. Instead, he presents UX skills and accomplishment statements and, most of all, quantifies them for maximum impact.

Also, it’s a letter of application . So tell the recruiter why you want to apply to this specific company. Show a cultural fit, mention your values, and talk about what you can bring to the company.

But then again… How does someone without experience tackle the second paragraph of a job application letter? They should show their drive towards the specific position and the steps they have already undertaken towards their goal. Just like that:

Sample Letter of Application for a Job With No Experience—Main Body

During my studies, I worked on several UX research projects, including conducting usability testing, creating personas, and analyzing user feedback. In addition, I have completed a certification in UX Research and Design, where I learned how to conduct user interviews, design research studies, and analyze data. I am proficient in various research methodologies and tools such as surveys, A/B testing, heat maps, and user flow analysis.

And despite the lack of measured achievements, this candidate is dedicated to becoming a UX specialist. No employer is going to have any doubts about whether he will be a driven employee at their company.

Expert Hint: As tempting as it may be, never copy your resume into the letter of application. Of course, you can show one or two of the same things but focus more on presenting other achievements and skills.

5. Finish Your Application Letter With a Clear CTA

Do you know the saying, “It’s not important how you start, it’s important how you finish?” Well, in letters of application, that’s not really a good saying, as you do need a strong start, but a strong finish is just as crucial.

So don’t screw up by including a non-ending “looking forward to hearing from you” or “thank you for considering my application.” Way too many candidates finish their letters of job application this way, and it just doesn’t work.

It’s uninspiring and boring.

Instead, do it like this:

Ending a Job Application Letter—Sample

If you have time, we could maybe schedule a meeting or something? I want to know more about the benefits your company offers

See? The first one sounds way better than one of those overused cliché lines. At the same time, example number 2 makes the candidate look like an entitled worker with no drive.

Pay special attention to the call to action. You should always nudge the recruiter into scheduling an interview with you. It may sound silly, but it’s an effective tactic. Additionally, when signing off, write “Sincerely” before your name. It’s the best way to close off a letter of application formally.

And as you’ve probably noticed, the candidate added a postscript. What’s the deal with that? It’s a completely optional thing, so don’t stress over it. If you want to add a P.S., remember to do so with a completely unique achievement you have not presented in your resume or application letter. If you don’t have anything jaw-dropping, you’re better off not adding a postscript to the end of your letter of job application .

With ResumeLab’s resume builder you’ll write your resume in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now .

Here’s a summary of what’s important when writing a letter of application for a job:

Format your application letter correctly to make it easily readable.
Refer to the hiring manager and the company by name . Personalization earns you a lot of points in the recruiting process.
Put information relevant to the position throughout all sections of the application letter.
Always refer to the keywords found in the job ad and the company’s values.
Finish off with a call to action , and add a postscript if you have more to show.

Did you enjoy reading about how to write a letter of application? Do you have any questions about job application letters? Or maybe additional tips to make one stand out even more? Leave a comment. We’ll be happy to engage in a conversation!

Mariusz is a career expert with a background in quality control & economics. With work experience in FinTech and a passion for self-development, Mariusz brings a unique perspective to his role. He’s dedicated to providing the most effective advice on resume and cover letter writing techniques to help his readers secure the jobs of their dreams.

Was it interesting? Here are similar articles

Email Cover Letter: 5 Samples & Writing Guide + Expert Tips

How do you write an email cover letter? Should you format it differently? Should you attach it? See 5 examples for different jobs to write a cover letter email that gets results.

Tom Gerencer

Career Expert

Free Cover Letter Templates for Word to Start With

Unlock your dream job with free, editable Word cover letter templates! Discover a collection of expertly designed templates with pro tips. Download now for a winning application!

Mariusz Wawrzyniak

How to Write a Motivation Letter: Sample & Guide for 2024

Did you lose another recruitment process? This can drain your motivation. Maybe what you need is to motivate the recruiter. Do so with a splendid motivation letter!

Pricing Job Posting Plans Talent Search Plans Resume Builder Plans
Build your Network My Network Access your personal network connections and manage your contacts. Cake Meet Expand your professional network by meeting and connecting with other users. Community Engage with other users through discussions, forums, and networking events.

Job Application Letter: Examples, What to Include & Writing Tips

In this article, we'll cover:

What Is an Application Letter?

What to include in a job application letter, job application letter samples, application letter template, tips for writing an application letter.

Aside from your resume, the hiring manager may ask you to submit a cover letter as a formal letter for a job application. Under different circumstances, it can go under different names shown below:

Job application letter – explains why you're applying for this position and what makes you qualified.
Letter of interest – expresses your interest in some position in a company even though it's already filled or not being advertised yet.
Letter of motivation – proves that you are the perfect candidate for the position.

Among these application formats for jobs, an application letter most closely resembles the function of a cover letter. It demonstrates your relevant qualifications for the position and convinces the employer to call you for an interview.

This article will guide you on how to write an application letter for employment and feature samples of both an application letter format and an email job application format.

Simply put, a letter of application is a formal document sent with your resume to explain at least these three things:

Why you want to apply for this role
What makes you the right fit
How you can bring value to the organization

A well-written job application letter can grab the recruiters' attention effectively, motivate them to read through your resume and offer you a job interview. Hence, you should always submit a short application letter, even though it’s not required for the application.

Recruiters normally would read your application letter before your resume. Therefore, it is important that your job application letter could serve as an overview of your profile as a candidate, and is interesting enough to make them want to review your application until the end.

When reviewing an application letter, recruiters expect to find a brief introduction of who you are and why you're applying for this role. Next, some paragraphs should elaborate the qualifications you possess that make you the right fit, in terms of education, experience, and skills. If you've stayed in the field for a while, focus on showing your achievements and present to the employer how you would contribute to their company in your job application letter.

Lastly, to make a lasting ending for your application letter, express your appreciation for their time and insert a CTA about the job interview. Also, make sure you include a professional sign-off!

In this paragraph, you will learn how to write each of the 6 sections included in a job application letter:

Letter header
Introduction paragraph
Body paragraph(s)
Closing paragraph

1. Letter header

Basically, the header of an application letter should follow the format of any other formal letters. It means that you need to provide the following information:

Your personal info (name, email, phone number/LinkedIn)
Date written
The recipient's info (name, job title, email, company address)

Example of an application letter header:

Kaylee Tran 9215 Fremontia Ave, Fontana, CA 92335 [email protected] (+310)-442-1500

May 10, 2022

Davis Miser Principal West Randall Elementary School 15620 Randall Ave, Fontana, CA 92335

2. Salutation

The salutation in a job application letter is a greeting to the people who will read your document and evaluate your qualifications for the role. Normally, they can be the company founder, the hiring manager, or the position’s department head.

Good salutations for application letters:

Dear Mr/Mrs + [Last Name],

Dear Hiring Manager,

Dear [First Name],
To Whom It May Concern,

Bad salutations for application letters:

How do you do!
Good morning/afternoon!

💡 Pro Tip: The cover letter salutation is one part of the letter where you can address the receiver of the letter directly. Addressing the correct or relevant people directly shows that you’ve put in the effort to do some research about the role and the team.

3. Introduction paragraph

In the opening paragraph, it's essential to introduce yourself and the purpose of writing this application letter. The most important information that employers expect to read is a brief statement of your qualifications that make you qualified for the position.

Instead of stuffing too many details in this section, keep your application letter opening paragraphs within 2-3 sentences.

Example of the introduction paragraph in a job application letter :

“My name is Kaylee Tran, an MSc graduate from IU International University of Applied Science. I am interested in applying for the Software Engineering Intern at Google after coming across your job listing on LinkedIn. I believe that my educational background and freelancing experience make me a highly competitive candidate for this position.”

4. Body paragraph(s)

Here comes the most important part of your application letter for employment where you will need to express your motivation to apply and provide details on why you think you're the right fit.

In the same way that you write a resume or CV, key components include skills, education, work experience, and professional achievements. However, instead of listing them in bullet points, you will compile a concise paragraph that best presents yourself to the hiring manager.

💡 Pro Tip: Don't just repeat information from your resume. Keep your explanation no longer than 10 sentences. Be brief and concise since recruiters don’t have all day to review your application letter.

Example of the body paragraph in an application letter :

“I have a strong passion for writing and blogging, which is why I have found such fulfillment in content creation. My first job was as a social media specialist at IVY Travel, where I was responsible for managing the company’s social media accounts and producing well-thought-out content to attract more potential customers. My biggest achievement is receiving the 2018 Marketing Award for doubling the average organic likes from 80K to 160K on Facebook in one year.

The following year, I advanced my career as a freelance content writer. This allows me to write for a variety of industries such as FinTech, EdTech, fashion, beauty, and tourism. I have helped over 15 companies with their content strategy and online branding. My previous clients are content with my active listening, attention to detail, and commitment to deadlines.”

5. Closing paragraph

In this the final paragraph of your application letter, you will need to:

Restate your interest
Kindly remind the hiring manager to review your resume and other files attached
Kindly ask for an interview
Express your appreciation for their time and consideration

Example of the closing paragraph in an application letter :

“As requested, I have enclosed my resume, work samples, and IELTS certificate. Please let me know if you have any questions or need any additional information. Thank you for your time and appreciate your consideration of my application. It would be my honor to have the chance to discuss this opportunity further with you.”

6. Signature

To end an application letter, just simply write a formal closing, followed by your signature.

If you're using an email job application format, make sure your email signature is professional and covers your personal information, like this:

Kaylee Tran (Ms.) cakeresume.com/kaylee1990 [email protected] (+098)-1234-567

Good sign-offs for application letters:

Best regards,
Kind regards,
With gratitude,

Bad sign-offs for application letters:

See you soon!
Thanks in advance!

Sample of an application letter for a job vacancy

Dear Mr. Miser,

My name is Kaylee Tran, an MSc graduate from IU International University of Applied Science. I saw the posting of the Software Engineering Intern from Google on LinkedIn, and I am very interested. I believe that my educational background and freelancing experience make me a highly competitive candidate for this position.

For the past two years, I have gained hands-on experience in coding and programming, providing solutions in database technology, and testing applications. My main responsibility is collaborating with a US-based team to develop four new websites that serve 2.5 million users per month. The biggest accomplishment I have achieved is building and implementing an automated bug tracking system, resulting in a 25% reduction in issues reported in the later stages of development.

The documents attached are my resume and work portfolio. I look forward to learning more about the Software Engineering Internship Program at Google. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, Kaylee Tran

Simple job application email sample

I'm writing to express my interest in the content editor position listed on Cake. While I have 5 years of experience in content marketing and social media management, I am confident that I am well-positioned to support IVY Magazine.

I have a strong passion for writing and blogging, which is why I have found such fulfillment in content creation. My first job was as a social media specialist at IVY Travel, where I was responsible for managing the company’s social media accounts and producing well-thought-out content to attract more potential customers. My biggest achievement is receiving the 2018 Marketing Award for doubling the average organic likes from 80K to 160K on Facebook in one year.

As requested, I have enclosed my resume, work samples, and IELTS certificate. Please let me know if you have any questions or need any additional information. Thank you for your time and appreciate your consideration of my application. It would be my honor to have the chance to discuss this opportunity further with you.

Kind regards, Colleen Miller [email protected] (881)-123-1234 cakeresume.com/colleen.miller

Need to write a quick and simple application letter? Use the free application letter template below.

[Your name] [Your address] [Your email address] [Your phone number]

[Date written]

[Recipient’s name] [Company name] [Company physical address]

Dear Mr./Mrs. [Last Name] ,

I am writing this letter to apply for the [job title] position at your company - [company name] . I believe that my educational background and professional experience make me an ideal candidate for this role. Moreover, I can have a chance to continue building upon the [technical skill] and [soft skill] acquired over the past [number] years.

In the last role as a [job title] , I was responsible for [job task 1] , [job task 2] , and [job task 3] . I pride myself on [notable accomplishment 1] and [notable accomplishment 2] , resulting in [contribution] at [your former company] .

You and the team can rely on me as a [personal trait 1], [personal trait 2], and [personal trait 3] employee with the ability to [soft skill] effectively. In terms of my educational background, I earned my [degree type] in [your major] from [University name] in [year] . I also obtained a certificate (or license) in [field] .

Please find attached my resume for your further review of my skills and work history. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this position and how I can bring more value to the [team or department name].

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

Kind regards, [Your Name]

✅ Start with a professional subject line.

This is particularly important if you choose an email format for your job application. Think of it as an article title that is professional-looking and can grab the reader's attention.

Examples of email subject lines for application letters :

Front-desk Position - Your Name
Job Posting #321: Marketing Manager
Application for Public Health Associate Position

💡 Pro Tip: Some job postings list specific formats that you are required to follow when submitting your application. Make sure to pay close attention to these specific instructions if you don’t want your application to go missing.

✅ Highlight your skills.

Bullet points on a resume make it easier to list relevant skills. However, you can’t do so when writing a job application letter - instead, provide specific examples of how you’ve leveraged that skill and what you've achieved. That will help fully showcase why you’re the right one for the position.

✅ Incorporate related keywords.

A rule of thumb is not only your resume but also your application letter should be tailored to the job opening. You just need to review the job description carefully and insert keywords related to skills, job responsibilities, and requirements. Doing so can help effectively pitch yourself to employers and stand out from the crowd.

✅ Be concise.

In general, an application letter sample for any position should not exceed one A4 page, ideally 250 to 400 words. Also, keep in mind that the body paragraph is the focus of the letter - longest and providing the most detail.

✅ Express your gratitude.

Being polite and professional will always imprint a positive impression on recruiters. It also indicates good character and can be seen as an indication of how you will fit into the company. Hiring managers will be impressed by your professionalism if you put your appreciation into words.

✅ Include a strong CTA.

A CTA (call-to-action) is like an invitation and reminder to the hiring manager to follow up and speak with you further regarding the job opportunity. This allows you to express your interest in the role and give them a push to reach out to you for an interview.

✅ Proofread before sending it out.

Many job applicants don't make a practice of proofreading their application letters, resulting in spelling and grammar mistakes. These may reflect badly on you and cost you the interview. Thus, make sure your job application letter is error-free before it's submitted.

With Cake, you can easily create a resume online, free download your resume’s PDF formats, and utilize ATS-compliant templates to create a resume. Land your dream job, create your resume online (free download) now!

Create resume

--- Originally written by May Luong --

More Career and Recruitment Resources

Explore a range of job search tools and resources to achieve your dream career goals. Join the fastest-growing talent platform in the APAC region and expand your professional network.

Resume Builder

Writing a Winning Job Application Letter: Tips and Examples

A job application letter, also known as a cover letter, is a formal letter that accompanies your resume and introduces you to a potential employer. The purpose of a job application letter is to highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills that make you the perfect candidate for the job. It also helps employers understand your personality, work ethic, and how you plan to contribute to their organization.

Importance of Customization

One of the key factors that can make or break your job application letter is how well you customize it to the specific job you are applying for. Employers want to see that you have taken the time to research their company and understand what they are looking for in a candidate. Customizing your letter also shows that you are genuinely interested in the job and that you are willing to put in the extra effort to stand out from other applicants.

Brief Overview of Key Sections

While job application letters can vary slightly depending on the job and industry, they typically contain four key sections:

Introduction: This section should include a brief introduction, the job you are applying for, and how you found out about it.

Qualifications: In this section, you should discuss your qualifications and experience that make you a good fit for the job. Be sure to tailor this section to the specific job requirements to show that you have the skills they are looking for.

Skills: Here, you should highlight your relevant skills and how they apply to the job. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your proficiency in each skill.

Closing: The closing paragraph should thank the employer for considering your application and provide contact information for them to reach you.

In this article, we will dive into each of these sections in more detail and provide tips and examples to help you write a winning job application letter.

Understand the Job Requirements

To write a winning job application letter, it is important to thoroughly understand the job requirements. This involves analyzing the job description and understanding the needs of the employer, as well as tailoring your letter to attract the specific employer.

A. Analyzing the Job Description

The job description provides you with valuable information about the position you are applying for. It outlines the required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities of the job. By analyzing the job description, you can determine if the role is a good fit for your experience and qualifications.

When analyzing the job description, it is important to pay attention to key phrases and requirements mentioned. These can give you insight into the priorities of the employer and allow you to tailor your application to meet those priorities.

B. Understanding the Needs of the Employer

To write a winning job application letter, it is also essential to understand the needs of the employer. This means researching the company and the industry to get a better understanding of the company culture, mission, and values. It also means understanding the desired outcome of the position and how you can address the employer’s needs.

One way to convey your understanding of the employer’s needs is to highlight relevant accomplishments in your application letter. By showing how you have successfully addressed similar challenges in the past, you can demonstrate your potential value to the employer.

C. Tailoring the Letter to Attract Specific Employer

Finally, to write a winning job application letter, it is important to tailor your letter to attract the specific employer. This means using language and examples that relate to the specific company and its values. It also means customizing your application letter to the specific job and its requirements.

To tailor your letter, take the time to research the company and its values. This can involve reviewing their website, social media, and other online resources. By addressing the specific needs and values of the employer, you can show that you are invested in the position and the company.

To write a winning job application letter, it is important to understand the job requirements, analyze the job description, understand the needs of the employer, and tailor the letter to attract the specific employer. By doing so, you can craft an application that stands out from the competition and showcases your value as a candidate.

Research the Company and Industry

Before writing your job application letter, it’s important to research the company and industry thoroughly to increase your chances of writing a winning letter. Here are three key areas to focus on:

A. Understanding the Mission, Vision, and Values of the Company

Make sure you take the time to research the company’s mission, vision, and values. This will help you understand the company’s goals and the qualities they look for in employees. You can find this information on the company’s website, social media pages or company annual report.

Incorporate the values and mission statement of the company into your job application letter. This highlights your alignment with the company culture, and how your beliefs and goals match that of the organization’s.

B. Identifying the Company’s Competition

Once you have an understanding of the company, you need to identify the company’s competition. Knowing who the competitors are can help you understand the industry as well as the company’s market share position.

List the company’s competitors in your job application letter and briefly explain how you see the company’s strengths overcoming the competitors’ weaknesses.

C. Industry Trends and How to Address Them

The final area to focus on when researching the company and industry is identifying current industry trends and how these trends may impact the company’s future. Use reputable sources to gather trends and predictions about the industry. This will also show the recruiter that you are not only familiar with their industry, but are engaging in informed discussion and contributing to innovative solutions.

Incorporate industry trends into your job application letter and showcase the ideas and innovations you bring, how leveraging them can enhance the company’s position and how you can contribute to any current and future challenges, for which the potential employer has yet to find a solution.

By researching and incorporating the above areas into your job application letter, you demonstrate a genuine interest in the organization and showcase clear understanding, innovative thought and how your expertise can improve the company’s performance.

Know Your Strengths and Skills

When writing a job application letter, it’s crucial to understand your unique selling proposition, relevant experience, and transferrable skills. This information will help you stand out from the other applicants and potentially land the job of your dreams.

A. Identifying Your Unique Selling Proposition

Your unique selling proposition (USP) is what sets you apart from the other candidates. It could be a specific skill, experience or personality trait that aligns with the company’s values and job requirements. Start by analyzing the job description and researching the company culture to identify what makes you an ideal candidate for the role.

Once you have identified your USP, use it as the main selling point in your job application letter. Highlight your strengths and skills and explain how they align with the job requirements and the company’s values. This will show the hiring manager that you are not just another candidate, but someone who has something valuable to offer.

B. Highlighting Your Relevant Experience and Accomplishments

Your work experience and achievements are essential in demonstrating your abilities and suitability for the job. When crafting your job application letter, focus on highlighting your relevant experience and accomplishments. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have contributed in previous roles and how those skills could be applied to the new role you are applying for.

Be sure to use metrics whenever possible as numbers are a great way to showcase your achievements. For example, if you were able to increase sales revenue by 20% in your previous role, mention it in your letter. This will give the hiring manager a clear understanding of your capabilities and how they align with the job requirements.

C. Understanding How to Leverage Transferrable Skills

Transferrable skills are those abilities that you have gained from your previous experiences that are not necessarily related to the job you are applying for. They can be valuable in demonstrating your adaptability and ability to learn quickly.

When discussing your transferrable skills in your job application letter, highlight how they could be applied to the new role you are applying for. For example, if you have strong communication skills, explain how you could use that to effectively collaborate with team members and clients.

By understanding and leveraging your unique selling proposition, relevant experience and accomplishments, and transferrable skills, you can write a job application letter that stands out from the crowd. Remember to tailor your letter to the job requirements and company culture to increase your chances of success.

Address Gaps in Your Resume or Experience

When applying for a job, it’s important to consider any gaps in your resume or experience that might be a red flag for hiring managers. Addressing these gaps upfront can demonstrate your accountability and willingness to take ownership of your shortcomings.

A. Taking ownership of failings

If you have gaps in your work history or experience, don’t try to hide or make excuses for them. Instead, take ownership of any failings and show that you’re actively working to improve yourself. This could involve taking courses, pursuing certifications, or volunteering in relevant areas to gain hands-on experience.

B. Finding a workaround for unfilled requirements

Sometimes a job posting requires specific qualifications or experience that you don’t have. In these cases, it’s important to find a workaround that demonstrates your ability to still meet the employer’s needs. This could involve highlighting related experience or transferable skills that could compensate for the missing requirement. Alternatively, it might involve offering to take on additional training or work with a mentor to acquire the missing knowledge.

C. Highlighting transferable skills to counter an irrelevant job background

When applying for a job in a new industry or field, it’s common to have a background that might not seem directly relevant. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re unqualified for the role. By highlighting transferable skills, such as leadership, problem-solving, or communication, you can demonstrate your ability to adapt to new situations and learn quickly.

Addressing gaps in your resume or experience is an important aspect of writing a winning job application letter. By taking ownership of your failings, finding workarounds for unfilled requirements, and highlighting transferable skills, you can position yourself as a strong candidate and increase your chances of landing the job you want.

Crafting an Attention-grabbing Opening Paragraph

In the competitive job market, first impressions matter. The opening paragraph of your job application letter is your opportunity to make a positive and lasting impression on potential employers. In this section, we’ll explore the importance of crafting an attention-grabbing opening paragraph and provide tips and examples on how to do so.

A. Importance of First Impressions

Studies show that it takes less than 30 seconds for a recruiter or hiring manager to form an initial impression of a job candidate. This means that your opening paragraph is a critical component of your job application letter. Your goal is to capture the employer’s interest and convince them to continue reading.

B. Creative and Engaging Opening Lines

One effective way to capture the employer’s attention is by starting your letter with a creative and engaging opening line. This can be a quote, a personal story, a relevant statistic, or a bold statement. The key is to be authentic and genuine while still standing out from other applicants.

C. Strategies for Catching the Employer’s Attention

Beyond the opening line, there are several strategies you can use to further capture the employer’s attention. These include highlighting relevant skills and experience, demonstrating enthusiasm for the position and company, and connecting your qualifications to the job requirements.

By following these tips and examples, you can craft an attention-grabbing opening paragraph that sets you apart from the competition and piques the employer’s interest.

Highlighting Your Accomplishments

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, highlighting your accomplishments is crucial. This allows potential employers to see the proven results that you can bring to their organization. Here are a few tips on how to effectively highlight your accomplishments:

A. Demonstrating Achievements in Previous Roles

One of the most effective ways to demonstrate your achievements is by highlighting your accomplishments in your previous roles. This shows that you have a track record of success and can bring that success to your next job. When highlighting your achievements, make sure to focus on results, not just responsibilities. Instead of stating that you managed a team, highlight the specific results that you achieved as a team leader.

For example, instead of saying, “Managed a team of 10 employees,” you could say, “Led a team of 10 employees to achieve a 25% increase in sales within the first quarter.” This shows the impact you had in your previous role and gives potential employers an idea of what you can achieve in their organization.

B. Using Data to Support Accomplishments

Using data to support your accomplishments is a powerful way to illustrate the impact you had in your previous roles. This could include data such as sales figures, customer satisfaction ratings, or employee retention rates. When using data, make sure to include specific numbers and percentages.

For example, instead of saying, “Improved customer satisfaction,” you could say, “Increased customer satisfaction ratings by 15% through implementing a new customer service training program.” This demonstrates the impact you had on the organization and the value you can bring to a potential employer.

C. Highlighting Relevant Certifications and Awards

Another way to highlight your accomplishments is by showcasing any relevant certifications or awards you have received. This shows that you have taken the time to invest in your professional development and have been recognized for your achievements.

When highlighting certifications and awards, make sure to explain why they are relevant to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a marketing position, highlighting your Google Analytics certification would be relevant as it demonstrates your analytics skills.

Highlighting your accomplishments is a crucial part of writing a winning job application letter. By demonstrating your achievements in previous roles, using data to support your accomplishments, and highlighting relevant certifications and awards, you can show potential employers the value you can bring to their organization.

Showcasing Your Writing Skills

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, showcasing your exceptional writing skills is crucial to increase your chances of getting hired. Employers often look for applicants who have a way with words, can express themselves clearly, and can craft compelling content that leaves a lasting impression. Here are several ways to showcase your writing skills:

A. Highlighting experience in writing

One of the most effective ways to showcase your writing skills is to highlight your experience as a writer. This can include previous work experience in writing-related fields such as journalism, marketing, or content creation. If you have a writing degree, mention it. You can also share published articles or blog posts that you have written to demonstrate your skills in action. Highlighting relevant experience shows that you have the skills needed to excel in the role you are applying for.

B. Incorporating keywords

Incorporating keywords relevant to the job posting can also help showcase your writing skills. Employers often use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes and cover letters for specific keywords related to the position. By including these keywords, you can increase your chances of getting past the initial screening process and showcase your understanding of industry-specific language.

C. Proper grammar, spelling, and tone

Finally, it’s essential to ensure that your writing exhibits proper grammar, spelling, and tone. Errors in these areas can undercut the impact of your application letter and send the wrong message to your potential employer. Take the time to proofread your cover letter and resume carefully, and have someone else review them too. Double-check for proper punctuation, spelling errors, and that your tone fits the professional context.

Showcasing your writing skills is critical when applying for jobs, particularly those that require excellent communication skills. Highlighting relevant experience, incorporating keywords, and ensuring proper grammar, spelling, and tone are strategies that can help set you apart from other applicants and make a lasting impression on potential employers.

Using Power Words and Phrases

When writing a job application letter, it is essential to use powerful words and phrases that can help you stand out from the crowd. Here are some tips to help you select the right words:

A. Selecting Strong Action Words

Action words can help demonstrate your skills and experience effectively. Use verbs that showcase your achievements and contributions to your previous roles. For instance, rather than saying you “assisted” your team, use words such as “led,” “managed,” or “initiated” to emphasize your role in driving projects and initiatives forward.

B. Avoiding Common Clichés and Buzzwords

Although buzzwords and clichés may seem tempting, they could potentially undermine the impact of your letter. Instead of using cookie-cutter phrases like “I am a team player,” try to use specific examples to illustrate your ability to work collaboratively. Also, avoid jargon that may not be familiar to the reader and opt for straightforward language that can be easily understood.

C. Crafting Impactful and Persuasive Sentences

To make your letter more impactful and persuasive, use language that emphasizes your strengths and accomplishments. Start sentences with action words and focus on the results you have achieved. Also, be specific and illustrate your points with concrete examples that demonstrate your value to the prospective employer.

When writing your job application letter, make sure to choose powerful words that demonstrate your expertise and experience effectively. Avoid using clichés and buzzwords and instead focus on crafting persuasive and impactful sentences that showcase your strengths and contributions. By following these principles, you can create a compelling letter that increases your chances of landing the job you want.

Formatting and Presentation of Your Job Application Letter

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, the presentation and formatting of the letter are just as important as the content. Here are some tips to ensure your letter looks professional and polished:

A. Ensure consistency in formatting

Make sure your letter has a consistent format throughout. This means using the same font and font size for the entire letter. Also, ensure that the margins and spacing are consistent from beginning to end.

B. Proper use of fonts, margins, and spacing

Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, in a legible size (such as 11pt or 12pt). Be sure to use proper spacing between paragraphs and section headers. It’s important to have enough white space to make the letter easy to read, but not so much that it takes up unnecessary space.

C. Guidelines on length of the letter

Longer letters can seem rambling and may deter the hiring manager from reading the whole thing. Focus on the most important points and make them clear and succinct. Remember, your goal is to make a strong case for yourself as a candidate, not overwhelm the reader with information.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your job application letter looks professional, polished, and focused on what matters most – your qualifications for the job.

Sample Job Application Letter

Writing a winning job application letter is important if you’re looking to impress the hiring manager and land your dream job. In this section of the article, we’ll walk through a sample job application letter, analyze its strong points, and provide strategies to improve it.

A. Walk Through a Sample Job Application Letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the position of Marketing Manager at ABC Company, as advertised on [job board]. With over [number] years of experience in the marketing industry, I believe I have the skills and knowledge to succeed in this role and make a significant contribution to your team.

During my time at XYZ Company, I was responsible for developing and executing successful marketing campaigns that exceeded client expectations and resulted in increased ROI. My experience in digital marketing, social media management, and content creation have prepared me well for this role. I am highly adaptable, and I have a proven track record of implementing innovative strategies to achieve business objectives.

In addition, I am a strong communicator and collaborator, and I work well in cross-functional teams. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for the role of Marketing Manager at ABC Company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

B. Analyzing the Strong Points in the Letter

The sample job application letter has several strong points:

The candidate clearly expresses their interest in the position and summarizes their skills and experience in the marketing industry.
The letter highlights the candidate’s successful track record in executing marketing campaigns and achieving business objectives.
The candidate demonstrates their adaptability and ability to implement innovative strategies.
The letter emphasizes the candidate’s communication and collaboration skills.

C. Strategies to Improve the Letter

To improve the sample job application letter, consider the following strategies:

Start with a strong opening sentence that grabs the hiring manager’s attention, such as a personal anecdote or a statement about the company’s mission.
Use specific examples of your achievements and accomplishments to demonstrate your value to the company.
Customize your letter to the specific job and company by conducting research and referencing relevant company initiatives or values.
Show enthusiasm and a willingness to learn by expressing interest in the company’s future projects or goals.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your job application letter and increase your chances of landing an interview with your dream company.

Writing a winning job application letter requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and a clear understanding of the hiring company’s needs and values. By following these tips and analyzing examples such as the one above, you can take your job application letter to the next level and stand out from the competition.

The Easiest Part-Time Jobs: Maximizing Your Income in 2023
Information Technology (IT) Cover Letter: Samples & Tips
Package Handler Resume: Winning Examples for 2023
10 Photographer Resume Examples That Secured Jobs in 2023
The Business Resume Guide: 10+ Samples & Examples for 2023

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

What Is an Application Letter?

What to include in your application letter, tips for writing a cover letter, cover letter sample and template, email cover letter sample.

How to Send an Email Application

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Alex Dos Diaz / The Balance

What's the best way to write a letter to apply for a job? Your letter should detail your specific qualifications for the position and the skills you would bring to the employer. What’s most important is to show the employer that you’re a perfect match for the job.

Your job application letter is an opportunity to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experience. An effective cover letter will enhance your application, showcase your achievements, and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Review what to include in a job application letter, tips for writing that will get your application noticed, and examples of cover letters and email messages to send when applying for a job.

Key Takeaways

An application letter accompanies a resume and may be uploaded to a job portal, sent via email, or even sent by postal mail, depending on the employer’s requirements.
Application letters are an ideal way to show your interest in a job and highlight your most relevant skills.
It’s important to match your letter to the job description and show the employer you have the qualifications they are seeking.

A letter of application, also known as a cover letter , is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information about your skills and experience to an employer. Your letter of application is intended to provide detailed information on why you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, what makes you a strong candidate, why they should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up.

Effective application letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify the most relevant skills that qualify you for the job.

Unless an employer specifically requests a job application letter sent by postal mail, most cover letters today are sent by email or attached as a file in an online application tracking system.

As with all cover letters, a job application letter is divided into sections:

The heading includes your name and contact information.
A greeting addressed to a specific person, if possible.
The introduction includes why the applicant is writing.
The body discusses your relevant qualifications and what you have to offer the employer.
The close thanks the reader and provides contact information and follow-up details.
Your signature to end the letter .

Here’s how to ensure your application supports your resume, highlights your most relevant qualifications, and impresses the hiring manager.

Get off to a direct start. In your first paragraph, explain why you are writing. Mention the job title, company name, and where you found the job listing. While you can also briefly mention why you are a strong candidate, this section should be short and to the point.

Offer something different than what's in your resume. You can make your language a bit more personal than in your resume bullet points, and you can tell a narrative about your work experience and career.

Application letters typically accompany resumes, so your letter should showcase information that your resume doesn't.

Make a good case. Your first goal with this letter is to progress to the next step: an interview. Your overarching goal, of course, is to get a job offer. Use your application letter to further both causes. Offer details about your experience and background that show why you are a good candidate. How have other jobs prepared you for the position? What would you bring to the role and the company? Use this space to emphasize your strengths .

Close with all the important details. Include a thank you at the end of your letter. You can also share your contact information and mention how you will follow up.

This is a sample cover letter. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for an email sample.

The Balance

John Donaldson 8 Sue Circle Smithtown, CA 08067 909-555-5555 john.donaldson@email.com

September 6, 2023

George Gilhooley LTC Company 87 Delaware Road Hatfield, CA 08065

Dear Mr. Gilhooley,

I am writing to apply for the programmer position advertised in the Times Union. As requested, I enclose my certification, resume, and references.

The role is very appealing to me, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education make me a highly competitive candidate for this position. My key strengths that would support my success in this position include:

I have successfully designed, developed, and supported live-use applications.
I strive continually for excellence.
I provide exceptional contributions to customer service for all customers.

With a BS degree in computer programming, I have a comprehensive understanding of the full lifecycle of software development projects. I also have experience in learning and applying new technologies as appropriate. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.

I can be reached anytime via email at john.donaldson@email.com or by phone at 909-555-5555.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.

Signature (only if a hard copy letter)

John Donaldson

The following is a sample email cover letter to send as part of a job application.

Email Application Letter Example

Subject: Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

I'm writing to express my interest in the Web Content Manager position listed on Monster.com. I have experience building large, consumer-focused, health-based content sites. While much of my experience has been in the business world, I understand the social value of this sector, and I am confident that my business experience will be an asset to your organization.

My responsibilities have included the development and management of website editorial voice and style, editorial calendars, and the daily content programming and production for various websites.

I have worked closely with health care professionals and medical editors to provide the best possible information to a consumer audience of patients. I have also helped physicians use their medical content to write user-friendly and easily comprehensible text.

Experience has taught me how to build strong relationships with all departments in an organization. I have the ability to work within a team, as well as cross-team. I can work with web engineers to resolve technical issues and implement technical enhancements.

I am confident working with development departments to implement design and functional enhancements, monitor site statistics, and conduct search engine optimization.

Thank you for your consideration.

Colleen Warren colleen.warren@email.com 555-123-1234 www.linked.com/colleenwarren

How to Send an Email Application Letter

If sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title you are applying for in the subject line of the email:

Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Include your contact information in your email signature but don't list the employer's contact information.

Do you have to write a cover letter when you apply for a job?

Some employers require cover letters. If they do, it will be mentioned in the job posting. Otherwise, it’s optional but it can help your chances of securing an interview. A cover letter gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer, showcase your qualifications, and explain why you are a perfect candidate for the job.

How can you use a cover letter to show you’re a qualified candidate?

One of the easiest ways to show an employer how you’re qualified for a job is to make a list of the requirements listed in the job posting and match them to your resume . Mention your most relevant qualifications in your cover letter, so the hiring manager can see, at a glance, that you have the credentials they are looking for.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter? "

60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must .

Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.

Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done.

You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates.

And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.

Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples

#1. career change cover letter example .

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.

Check out our guide video guide to learn how to write a Cover Letter that gets you HIRED!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for a recent graduate

Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.

Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish!

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Middle Management

Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements.
Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job.
Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs.

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for business manager

Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career.
Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through.
Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.

Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample.

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail.
Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements.

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for senior executive

Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking.
Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.
Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression.

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example

Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time.
A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression.
Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.

Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example

Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.
Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right?
Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.

Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume .

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example

Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements.
Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job.
Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.

For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Digital Marketing

Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template.
Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry.
Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.

Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Graphic Designer

Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.
Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.
Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.

Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Administrative Assistant

Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter.
Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee.
Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression.

Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing.
Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression.
Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability.

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Human Resources

It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in.
Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better.
Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it.

This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example

Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template.
Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length.
Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements.

Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time.
Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention.
Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for.

Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Information Technology

Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements.
Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are.
Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume.

Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Real Estate Agent

Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager.
Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action.
Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication .

This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles.
Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter.
Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job.

Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Project Manager

Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data.
Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this.

This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities.
Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job.
Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements.

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

40+ More Cover Letter Examples and Guides

Couldn’t find a cover letter example for your field? Do not worry.

Below you can find a number of other cover letter examples for different fields and industries:

Acting Cover Letter Examples
Accounting Cover Letter Examples
Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
Architecture Cover Letter Examples
Attorney Cover Letter Examples
Barista Cover Letter Examples
Bartender Cover Letter Examples
Business Cover Letter Examples
Business Analyst Cover Letter Examples
College Student Cover Letter Examples
Computer Science Cover Letter Examples
Construction Cover Letter Examples
Consultant Cover Letter Examples
Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples
Data Entry Cover Letter Examples
Dental Assistant Cover Letter Examples
Digital Marketing Cover Letter Examples
Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Examples
Engineering Cover Letter Examples
Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples
Finance Cover Letter Examples
Graphic Design Cover Letter Examples
Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
Human Resources Cover Letter Examples
IT Cover Letter Examples
Law Cover Letter Examples
Management Cover Letter Examples
Marketing Cover Letter Examples
Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Examples
Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples
Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter Examples
Physician Cover Letter Examples
Project Manager Cover Letter Examples
Receptionist Cover Letter Examples
Retail Cover Letter Examples
Sales Cover Letter Examples
Social Work Cover Letter Examples
Software Engineer Cover Letter Examples
Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples
Teacher Assistant Cover Letter Examples
Team Leader Cover Letter Example

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your 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 give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).

So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day.

Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough.

Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:

Header - Input your contact information.
Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."

#1. Pick the right template

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

And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?

You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!

#2. Add your contact details on the header

The best way to start your cover letter is through a header.

Here’s what you want to include there:

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

Optionally, you can also include the following:

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 content portfolio site or blog.

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter.

A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.

So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?

One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.

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.

If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:

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

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

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 problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking 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.

As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates.

What you want to do, instead, is 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.

For example:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its 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 my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.

The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.

Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?

#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job

One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job.

A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.

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 and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as 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

#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit

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 .

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:

What’s the company’s business model?
What’s the company's 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?

Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter!

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:

Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite.
Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible.

#8. Write a 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 in a cover letter:

Best Regards,
Kind Regards,

#9. Proofread your cover letter

Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included.

The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos!

For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article !

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:

1. How do I write a simple cover letter?

To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action).

2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter?

The three parts of a cover letter are:

The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph.
The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter.
The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.

3. What makes a great cover letter?

A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”

To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.

Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by.

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .

Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.

And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.

If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles:

How to Write a Resume
Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

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

Essential Components of a Powerful Job Application Letter

July 22, 2024

A well-crafted job application letter is crucial in today’s competitive job market. It’s your first chance to make a lasting impression and differentiate yourself from other candidates. This guide will walk you through the essential components of a powerful job application letter, ensuring you capture the attention of potential employers and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Image source : Pexels

Introduction

A job application letter, or a cover letter, accompanies your resume when you apply for a job. It provides an opportunity to introduce yourself, highlight your qualifications, and explain why you are a perfect fit for the position . In this blog, we’ll explore the key components that make a job application letter stand out.

Contact Information

The first step in crafting your job application letter is to include your contact information at the top. This ensures that the employer can easily reach you.

Employer’s Information

Below your contact information, include the employer’s contact details. This demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail.

Address the job application letter to a specific person whenever possible. This personal touch shows that you have taken the time to research the company.

Engaging Opening Paragraph

Your opening paragraph should grab the employer’s attention and make them want to read more. Mention the job you are applying for and where you found the job posting.

Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences

In the body of your letter, highlight your most relevant skills and experiences. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your background makes you an ideal candidate for the position.

Align with the Company’s Goals

Show that you understand the company’s mission and goals, and explain how you can contribute to their success.

Closing Paragraph with a Call to Action

Your closing paragraph should reinforce your enthusiasm for the position and prompt the employer to take action. Include a call to action, such as requesting an interview.

Professional Closing

End your letter with a professional closing, followed by your signature.

10 Effective Tips for Writing An Application Letter for Leave

How to Write a Perfect Cover Letter with ChatGPT ( ChatGPT )

Business Partner Manager Cover Letter

Example Cover Letter for a PhD Student Position

Tips for Writing a Powerful Job Application Letter

Use a professional tone.

Maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout your letter. Avoid slang and overly casual language.

Keep your letter concise and to the point. Aim for one page in length, and focus on the most relevant information.

Customize for Each Job

Tailor your letter for each job application. Customize your skills and experiences to match the specific requirements of the job posting.

Proofread Carefully

Proofread your letter multiple times to catch any spelling or grammar errors. Consider having a friend or family member review it as well.

Use Keywords

Incorporate keywords from the job description into your letter. This can help your application get noticed by applicant tracking systems (ATS) and hiring managers.

Show Enthusiasm

Express genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. Employers want to hire passionate candidates about the role and the organization.

A powerful job application letter can significantly enhance your chances of securing an interview and landing your desired job. By including the essential components outlined in this guide, you can create a compelling letter that showcases your qualifications and demonstrates your enthusiasm for the position. Customize each letter, maintain a professional tone, and proofread carefully. Good luck with your job search!

Tap into AI-powered cover letter magic, get tailor-made advice, and explore our stash of standout samples.

Skip to Content
Skip to Sidebar
Skip to Footer

Resume Genius

The World's Smartest Resume Builder

Monday to Friday, 8AM – 12AM (Midnight) and Saturdays and Sundays, 10AM – 6PM EDT (866) 215-9048

Cover Letter Templates

Need a cover letter template? Download any of our 200+ free cover letter templates for Word, then fill out a copy-paste cover letter template to pair with your resume and complete your job application.

Use a Genius Cover Letter Template

Use the "Advanced" cover letter template to apply for competitive jobs and advance your career.

The "Clean" cover letter template lives up to its name, with simple formatting and an easy-to-read font.

With its simple, bold design, the “Corporate” cover letter template is ideal for confident business professionals.

Minimal and sleek, the "Modern" template is ideal for marketing and business professionals.

Our "Minimalist" cover letter template embraces simplicity while maintaining a unique visual style.

The “Majestic” uses a unique cityscape header to draw attention to your cover letter.

The "Pantheon" cover letter template's bold header projects confidence, making it ideal for executives.

Designed for the modern job seeker, our "2024" cover letter template is perfect for people in any industry.

"The Classic" cover letter template is clean, traditional, and the perfect format to start off your application.

The "Windsor" cover letter template uses a unique header to design to grab the attention of employers.

Featuring bold, dark lines the “Chicago” cover letter template projects confidence.

Featuring a bold gray header block for your name and contact information, the "Taj Mahal" template projects confidence.

The "Elegant" cover letter template gives your header a sophisticated look, making it ideal for a variety of jobs.

Timeless and formal, our "Professional" cover letter template is an update of a design used by job seekers for decades.

Elegant and classic, the "Milano" template gives your cover letter a timeless, sophisticated look.

Free Cover Letter Template Downloads

Professional templates.

A professional cover letter template suits experienced candidates applying to large companies. If you’re an executive or seeking a senior position, use one of these templates to write a confident and authoritative cover letter.

Minimalist Cover Letter Template, Blue — hubpage image for our cover letter templates landing page

Why it’s called the “Minimalist”

As the name suggests, the Minimalist cover letter features a simple design aesthetic that doesn’t distract from its content. At the same time, a bit of color is added to allow you to express your individuality—do you suit an ambitious red or an industrious blue?

Who should use it?

The Minimalist’s uncomplicated layout and design make it suitable for a myriad of roles. Its simplicity also makes it easy to format to your needs.

Use this design if you value clarity and effectiveness. If you don’t have Microsoft Word, you can find similar cover letter templates for google docs

Format and styling details

Major Features

Colored name header and contact icons

Text Details

Name/Header Font: Raleway
Content Font: Calibri
Name Font Size: 35pt
Body Font Size: 11.5pt

How to access this template

Cover letter builder.

Use our software and create a cover letter with a premade template. Let the Genius cover letter generator help you make your cover letter in minutes.

Everest Cover Letter Template, Orange — image for cover letter templates hubpage

Featuring strong colors and a bold header, our "Everest" cover letter template is guaranteed to help you stand out.

Why it’s called the “Everest”

The Everest’s dominating dark-and-light color scheme will allow you to tower over your competition. It exudes an earthiness that reflects your dependability, a soft skill that hiring managers consistently prioritize.

The Minimalist’s simple layout and design make it suitable for a wide range of positions. Moreover, its lack of visual complexity makes it easy to format.

Use the Everest if you are a rock-solid candidate.

Colored name header, contact icons, and horizontal lines
Name/Header Font: Montserrat
Content Font: Proza Libre Light
Name Font Size: 28pt

Premium Cover Letter Template, pink — image for cover letter templates hubpage

Clean and sleek, the "Premium" cover letter template is a great choice for job seekers in creative industries.

Why it’s called the “Premium”

The Premium is our most sophisticated cover letter template yet. It hints at a high level of luxury, albeit one that the average person can aspire to.

Use the Premium template if you don’t count yourself among the hoi polloi of job seekers: the Premium template suggests that you are a top-tier candidate.

Colored contact header, and the applicant’s name encased in an elegant box.
Name/Header Font: Proza Libre Medium
Name Font Size: 32pt

Simple yet stylish, our "Cosmopolitan" cover letter template will help you get noticed for the right reasons.

Cosmopolitan

Why it’s called the “Cosmopolitan”

The Cosmopolitan uses a diverse range of bright, eye-catching colors that echo the variety found in the modern world.

This template is perfect for those who are proud of their background, crave a career that matches their personality, and aspire to contribute to their new role in their own way.

Modern Templates

Pair a modern cover letter template with your resume to show some personality in your job application. This style of cover letter template is ideal for job seekers applying to work in tech, at startups, or in industries like marketing and design.

The 2024 modern cover letter template in black

Why it’s called the “2024”

The “2024” is our latest and most advanced of all our cover letter templates . “2024” embraces the future while staying true to design principles that have survived for decades, making it ideal for job seekers navigating today’s volatile job market.

The 2024 template is versatile and modern. Anybody can use this template — whatever role they’re applying for.

Clear, bold heading that clearly displays your name
Name/Header Font: Lora
Content Font: Open Sans
Name Font Size: 24pt
Contact Details Font Size: 11pt
Body Font Size: 11pt

The Advanced modern cover letter template in blue

Why it’s called the “Advanced”

The Advanced template is designed for those who can boast advanced technical skills or an in-demand specialty.

Paired with the Advanced resume template that helps job seekers show off their skills, this cover letter template is perfect for those who want to advertise their expertise or technical knowledge.

A colored band containing your contact details paired with a matching band at the bottom of the cover letter.
Name/Header Font: Poppins

Formal and bold, the “Corporate” template’s strong header makes it ideal for applying to managerial positions.

Why it’s called the “Corporate”

Professionalism and industriousness are the watchwords of the Corporate template, which is sure to suit those seeking career advancement.

Ambitious go-getters who aren’t afraid of working hard to deliver for themselves and their firm.

Colorful header with clearly displayed name and contact details. White font color for your name is indicative of modesty and quiet confidence.
Name/Header Font: Nunito Sans
Content Font: Nunito Sans
Name Font Size: 26pt

Hybrid Modern Cover Letter Template, Orange Color, image for cover letter templates hubpage

Our "Hybrid" cover letter template combines formal formatting with colorful accents.

Why it’s called the “Hybrid”

The “Hybrid” cover letter template may have a splash of color, but it’s nevertheless professional. The balance of aesthetics and formality hints to hiring managers that you are a diligent, competent candidate.

Candidates with solid interpersonal skills who are ready to hit the ground running in their new workplace.

Colorful accents at the top and bottom of the cover letter with a gray background behind your name.
Name/Header Font: Roboto
Content Font: Roboto

Creative Templates

Our creative cover letters perfectly balance professionalism and personality. Use one of these unique cover letter templates if you’re applying for work in a contemporary field like design or marketing.

Notre Dame Creative Cover Letter Template, green version for cover letter templates hubpage

The "Notre Dame" template uses bold rectangles in its header, placing emphasis on your name and contact details.

Why it’s called the “Notre Dame”

Inspired by the impressive buttresses of Paris’ most famous cathedral, the Notre Dame cover letter template’s bold lines and subtle colors are designed to draw the attention of any hiring manager.

The Notre Dame cover letter template is perfect for candidates who aren’t afraid to give their job application some flair. It’s ideal for job seekers who are applying for work in less formal industries like marketing or design.

Colorful header and large name
Name/Header Font: Yanone Kaffeesatz
Content Font: Noto Sans Display

The Cool creative cover letter template in blue

Featuring a bold sidebar and modern font, the "Cool" cover letter template gives your application a sleek, confident look.

Why it’s called the “Cool”

Stylish and modern, the “Cool” cover letter template is designed to give your application a confident but subdued look. The bold sidebar and bottom-aligned contact information help grab attention and direct it toward your cover letter’s content.

The “Cool” cover letter template’s sleek but professional appearance makes it ideal for job seekers looking for creative work in a more buttoned-up industry, such as advertising or UI/UX design.

Bold sidebar header and a sans-serif font
Content Font: Montserrat

The "Westminster" cover letter template is creative but minimalist, making it perfect for a variety of jobs.

Westminster

Why it’s called the “Westminster”

Featuring a clean header and refined signature font, the Westminster cover letter template was inspired by the elegant architecture of London’s center of government. This template is the perfect mix of formality and playfulness, making it ideal for just about any contemporary job.

Formal yet lively, the Westminster cover letter template is perfect for candidates in advertising or online marketing.

Large header emphasizes your name
Playful script font for the signature
Name/Header Font: Oswald
Content Font: Poppins
Name Font Size: 34pt

The Visual cover letter template in orange

Eye-catching and clean, the "Visual" template is designed to make your cover letter stand out.

Why it’s called the “Visual”

Clean, organized, and modern, the “Visual” cover letter template is designed to help your application stand out while staying professional. When paired with the busyness of the “Visual” resume template, this cover letter provides the perfect balance to your job application.

The “Visual” template is perfect for anyone in a creative industry looking to give their cover letter a buttoned-up, contemporary look.

Clean header and neatly organized contact information

Simple Templates

Write a clear and organized cover letter using a simple cover letter template. Each basic template is free to download (compatible with Microsoft Word and Google Docs), and will help you create the perfect cover letter for whatever job you apply for.

The Classic

Why it’s called the “Classic”

The Classic template draws on longstanding design principles to provide a cover letter that can be used for a variety of professions and experience levels. Our Classic 2.0 design adheres to those principles, while offering a fresh take on the standard cover letter format .

The Classic template is a great choice for job seekers who want the reader to focus on their content rather than layout.

Name and contact details are separated from the core content by a line
Compatible cover letter template for google docs
Font Style: Lora
Name Font Size: 22pt
Contact Details Font Size: 22pt

Inspired by the architecture of its namesake city, the "Chicago" cover letter template is bold and professional.

Why it’s called the “Chicago”

“The Windy City is mighty pretty,” and so is the Chicago template. Just like Illinois’ largest city, the Chicago template is a real people pleaser, with something that appeals to everyone.

This modern, versatile template is a pragmatic choice for those seeking to prove they can thrive in the workplace with their cover letter.

Centered name and contact details
Font Style: STIX Two Text

The Connery cover letter template in brick red

The "Connery" cover letter template exudes confidence with its bold name bar, ensuring that employers remember you.

Why it’s called the “Connery”

The Connery cover letter template is bold but buttoned-up. The name bar immediately catches the eyes of employers and puts emphasis on your name, ensuring they remember your application after they’re done reviewing it.

The Connery is a great choice for anyone who wants to make a strong first impression.

A colorful name bar followed by your contact details.
Font Style: Roboto Slab
Name Font Size: 19pt

Graceful and powerful, our "White House" is perfect for job seekers applying for government-related work.

White House

Why it’s called the “White House”

Our new “White House” cover letter template exudes confidence and prestige. The heading stands out without being flashy, and gives your cover letter the distinguished appearance worthy of a powerful political figure.

Anyone applying for a job at the local, state, or federal level of government, as well as anyone looking to convey that they’re a serious applicant truly interested in a role.

The White House template features a bold header that splits your name (aligned to the left) from your relevant contact details (aligned to the right). Symmetry fit for a consummate professional.
Font Style: Arimo
Name Font Size: 18pt

Picture Templates

These picture cover letter templates are ideal if you’re applying for jobs in a country where you’re expected to include a photo with your job application. Each template is designed to look sleek and quickly grab the attention of employers.

Our “Original Picture” template provides plenty of space in the header for your headshot, helping you grab attention.

Original Picture

Why it’s called the “Original Picture”

The header of the “Original Picture” is what makes it so compelling. Distinct, unique, and with space for a photo, it has everything you need to leave a lasting impression.

If originality and creativity are traits you want to emphasize with your cover letter, the “Original Picture” ticks all the boxes.

Tasteful design details that elevate your cover letter
Heading Font: Oxygen
Content Font: Oxygen

The Photo photo cover letter template in yellow

With a subtle full-color background, our “Photo” template will give your cover letter a chic, artsy look.

Why it’s called the “Photo”

TWho says that color should be reserved for the header of your cover letter? Frame yourself and your experience in a way that catches employers’ attention with the “Photo”.

Want to literally and figuratively highlight all the reasons why you’re the most qualified person for the job? The “Photo” does the trick.

A colorful background on which to display your greatest accomplishments
Heading Font: Cormorant SC
Content Font: Source Sans Pro

The Fresh picture cover letter template in wine featuring a subtle gradient in the background

Featuring clean lines and a gradient background, our “Fresh” cover letter template will help your application stand out.

Why it’s called the “Fresh”

Clean lines, a straightforward layout and appealing colors make this template a breath of fresh air.

The “Fresh” matches the needs of professionals who want to take their cover letter to the next level visually. This template achieves just that, without distracting from your accomplishments.

A minimalistic header that emphasizes your name and title
Heading Font: Inter
Content Font: Inter

Our “Headshot” cover letter template applies color to give your cover letter a sleek, modern look.

Why it’s called the “Headshot”

This template makes clever use of color to add a bit of dimension to your cover letter without going overboard on the design details. The two-tone color scheme keeps things exciting and makes your headshot pop.

The “Headshot” is a great choice for actors, models, and professionals in the entertainment industry. However, its minimalistic yet attractive design makes it suitable for job seekers in any field.

Heading Font: Lato
Content Font: Lato

Google Docs Templates

Need a cover letter to pair with your Google Docs resume template ? These sleek, contemporary cover letter templates will help elevate your job application without ever needing to download expensive word processing software.

Opening with a casual greeting, the “Coral” Google Docs cover letter template gives off friendly, youthful energy.

What’s unique about this template?

Though it has a simple format, the Coral cover letter template features a hint of color and a unique header font that create an air of sophistication.

The Coral template is a good choice for candidates who want to add a touch of personality and class to their cover letter.

Coral-colored introductory text and stylish fonts that draw the eye
Right-aligned contact information in the header
Heading Font: Playfair Display
Body Font Size: 10pt

The "Swiss" Google Docs cover letter template

Using a simple, technical design with a little color, the “Swiss” cover letter template is perfect for jobs in tech or marketing.

The Swiss cover letter template uses two columns, with one featuring a candidate’s name and contact information, and the other containing the body of the cover letter. This layout effectively uses white space for extra visual flair.

The Swiss cover letter template is perfect for those who can write a concise cover letter and want their application to stand out.

Attention-grabbing job title, contact information, and signature in orange text
Content aligned in a single column using a standard resume format
Heading Font: Raleway

An example of the "Geometric" Google Docs cover letter template

With its blocky background graphics, the “Geometric” cover letter template is best suited to apply for jobs in programming.

The Geometric template uses a bold design and color palette that is sure to get the attention of employers.

If you’re looking for work in a modern and creative industry like design or tech, the Geometric template could be the one for you.

Colorful fonts that highlight the candidate and hiring manager’s names
Geometric shapes and icons that add visual interest
Heading Font: Roboto
Content Font: Roboto
Name Font Size: 20pt

An example of the "Online" Google Docs cover letter template

Formal yet colorful, choose the “Online” template if you want to keep things professional but still stand out.

The teal heading underscored by a gray contact information bar makes sure employers know who you are and how to contact you.

This template is a good option for candidates looking to add a light touch of color and personality to their application.

A bold header that makes your name memorable
Teal color accents that highlight the candidate’s job title and signature
Heading Font: Lora
Content Font: Arimo
Name Font Size: 40pt

Microsoft Word Templates

These cover letter templates for Microsoft Word come in a number of eye-catching colors and professional designs. Be sure to pair your favorite cover letter template with the matching Microsoft Word resume template .

The Swiss cover letter template from Microsoft Word featuring a full color yellow background

The Swiss cover letter template features a striking color scheme and a unique layout to draw attention.

For candidates looking to turn heads with their application, the Swiss cover letter template will deliver.

Bold yellow background with distinct black lines
A large header that contains the candidate’s name and contact information
Heading Font: Univers
Content Font: Univers
Name Font Size: 36pt
Body Font Size: 9pt

The Polished cover letter template from Microsoft Word featuring a bright red header bar

With bold color features and a distinct font pairing, the Polished cover letter template demonstrates personality and confidence.

The Polished template is well-suited to candidates in creative industries who are looking to make an impression.

Bright coral-colored header featuring a ring to display a candidate’s initials
Distinctive fonts that will make your cover letter stand out
Heading Font: Franklin Gothic Dem
Content Font: Rockwell
Name Font Size: 25pt

The Playful cover letter template from Microsoft Word featuring a side bar with colorful shapes

The Playful template lives up to its name with a fun color palette and whimsical design. The high contrast between the sidebar and the cover letter body text adds visual interest and flow.

The Playful template is well-suited to candidates applying for jobs in creative fields like marketing or design.

A sidebar with colorful bubbles that displays a candidate’s photo, name, and contact information
Icons that draw attention to the candidate’s contact details
Heading Font: Calibri
Content Font: Calibri

Crisp and Clean

The Crisp and Clean template offers a unique and unexpected layout along with light color accents. With each part of the cover letter neatly organized and defined, this template is pleasing to the eye and easy to read.

This template is perfect for candidates who appreciate a simple design aesthetic and clear structure.

Yellow outlines and shapes delineate the space
Effective use of white space makes the page look tidy and spacious
Heading Font: Century Gothic
Content Font: Century Gothic
Name Font Size: 23pt

CV Templates

Looking for a cover letter to pair with your CV? Whether you’re applying to an academic position or a research job, our CV cover letter templates are designed to give your application a refined, professional appearance.

If you write in any professional capacity, our "Writer" template will help you highlight your writing proficiency.

Why it’s called the “Writer”

Thanks to its subtle design and space-efficient layout, our “Writer” cover letter template gives you plenty of space to highlight your writing proficiency and style.

The “Writer” cover letter template is perfect if you’re applying to work as a teacher or any other job that requires strong writing abilities.

Use our software and create a cv with a premade template. Let the Genius cv generator help you make your cv in minutes.

The "Research" CV cover letter in dark blue

Our "Research" cover letter template uses a formal design to help emphasize your accomplishments in your field of research.

Why it’s called the “Research”

The “Research” cover letter template is designed to help you land those competitive research positions. Its blocky design and elegant header help you make a strong first impression without detracting from your qualifications.

You should use the “Research” cover letter template if you’re applying to jobs where your technical skillset matters, like those in academic research or computer science .

The "Harvard" CV cover letter in black grey

With a name that evokes prestige, our "Harvard" cover letter template is the perfect accessory to your CV.

Why it’s called the “Harvard”

With a name that evokes prestige, our “Harvard” CV cover letter template is the perfect design to pair with your impressive and thorough curriculum vitae.

With its clean, formal design, you should use the “Harvard” cover letter template if you want to project confidence. It’s best used if you’re applying for higher-level jobs, such as an operations manager or marketing manager .

The "Graduate" CV cover letter in forest green

Our "Graduate" cover letter template is formal and elegant, making it well suited to help you apply for any position.

Why it’s called the “Graduate”

The “Graduate” cover letter template uses a bold header font and clean lines to help your CV look both friendly and contemporary, helping you stand out even if you’re fresh out of grad school.

The “Graduate” cover letter template’s formal design and subtle details makes it the ideal choice for scholars writing an academic job application.

How to Use a Cover Letter Template

Free Fill-in-the-Blank Cover Letter Templates

How to Use a Free Cover Letter Template

To use one of our professionally-designed cover letter templates, simply:

Select the template you like and click on “View Template.”
Download it as a Word Doc or Google Doc , and select the option of your choice under “How to download this template” (If you want to use a Google Doc, make sure to select the color option you want before making a copy).
Edit the document , using the template text as a guide to fill in your own experience.
Save your cover letter as a Word document or PDF to send to employers, using a professional file name like “your-name-cover-letter.pdf”.

To write a good cover letter and impress employers, follow the best cover letter formatting practices and make sure to demonstrate why you’re a good fit for the specific company .

Using a template helps you create a professional application and makes it much easier to quickly modify your cover letter for different jobs.

Copy & Paste Cover Letter Template

You can copy and paste this template into a doc to use as an easy-to-follow outline:

Your Name Street Address City and Zip Code Your Phone Number

Today’s Date

Addressee’s/Hiring Manager’s Name Job Title Organization/Company Name Street Address City and Zip Code

Opening paragraph: State who you are, say where you found the job listing, and explain why you’re interested in the position.

Body paragraphs: Give an overview of your previous job experience, skills, qualifications, and accomplishments. Don’t repeat your resume. Explain what makes you a unique candidate and how you can help the company meet its goals. Use numbers to back up your claims.

Closing paragraph: State that you’d like to schedule an interview and provide your contact information. Say you’ll be in touch within a week if you don’t hear back. Finish by thanking the employer for their time and consideration.

Warm regards,

As many as 94% of hiring managers think cover letters are influential when it comes to deciding who to interview, so use your cover letter as an opportunity to connect with employers and highlight why you’d make a smart hire .

4 Downloadable Cover Letter Templates

Choose a free fill-in-the-blank cover letter template below and fill in your information to create a personalized cover letter.

1. Professional Cover Letter

Looking for a classic cover letter that’ll work for any job application? Our original professional cover letter template ensures you’ll have a polished cover letter without worrying about finicky formatting or design.

Download this free sample and fill in the blanks with your skills and experience to show employers how your qualifications align with the role.

Professional cover letter template in a navy blue design.

2. Creative Cover Letter

Our fashionable cover letter template has a light and professional tone and focuses on your enthusiasm and achievements. If you’re applying at a forward-looking company, a modern cover letter like this shows you’re a good cultural fit.

This free template is easy to personalize in Word, and has lots of room for you to showcase your originality and voice.

Creative cover letter template in yellow.

3. Entry Level (No Work Experience) Cover Letter

When you’re writing your first cover letter, you can focus on the skills you gained through your education, volunteer work, extracurriculars, and hobbies.

Our Unique cover letter template helps you explain why you’re a top candidate, even if you have no work experience. Simply download the Word doc and customize it.

4. Experienced Professional Cover Letter

Need an application letter for a senior position? Our Milano cover letter template offers a clear format for presenting your skill set and accomplishments.

If you’re established in your field or applying for a promotion, this sophisticated template will help you make a powerful impression.

Make a cover letter in minutes

Pick your template, fill in a few details, and our builder will do the rest.

COVER LETTER SAMPLES

See our cover letters in action

Read through our professional cover letter examples for inspiration when writing your own. Each sample has been approved by a professional career expert from our team, and uses a free cover letter template that you can download and customize.

Career & Life Situations

Not sure how to write a cover letter for your background? Whether you have gaps in your career, or are just graduating college, our career and life-situation cover letter templates include downloadable examples and tips to help you make a cover letter that’s ideal for your situation.

Examples By Job Type

Below you’ll find some of our most popular industry-specific cover letter examples, which you can download immediately for free and use as a guide when creating your own cover letter.

Example of a teacher cover letter for a school application.

Frequently asked questions

Here are some essential cover letter tips and suggestions that will help you land more interviews and a job.

What should a cover letter include?

A cover letter should include five essential parts:

Contact information
A personalized greeting
An eye-catching cover letter introduction
Convincing body content about your expertise
A powerful cover letter closing and sign off

What should not be included in a cover letter?

You shouldn’t include any false information in a cover letter, or the same information that’s already on your resume. It’s also important to avoid these mistakes:

Spelling and grammar errors
Addressing your cover letter to the wrong person
Including your salary expectations
Adding personal details unrelated to the job

Do I need a unique cover letter for every job?

While it’s not necessary to create a unique cover letter for every job, it does improve your chances of making a good first impression and landing an interview.

Each company has different challenges they’re trying to tackle through hiring. By writing a new cover letter draft for every job, you can explain why you’re uniquely qualified to contribute.

How long should my cover letter be?

Your cover letter should be between half a page and one full page in length, or about 200 to 500 words. This is the standard cover letter length because it’s concise, and keeps the hiring manager’s attention.

Do I really need a cover letter?

You need a cover letter if:

The job you’re applying to requires one
You’ve been recommended for the job
You want to provide information that isn’t included in your resume

Should my resume and cover letter template match?

Your job application will look much more consistent and professional if you use a matching resume and cover letter template.

Using mismatched templates can come across as unprofessional and might make it look like you didn’t put much thought or effort into your job application.

Would you leave us a review?

Cover letter examples

Product Manager

Umut Yilmaz, a seasoned Product Manager, opted for the Cornell template to highlight his extensive experience in product management. He adeptly blends strategic planning, market research, and cross-functional collaboration to drive product success.

"Throughout my career, I have successfully led cross-functional teams in the development and launch of products across various industries. My ability to translate complex ideas into actionable product strategies has consistently resulted in products that not only meet market demands but also exceed business objectives."

Table of contents

How to Write a Product Manager Cover Letter

In the rapidly changing tech and AI landscape, product managers (PMs) are essential in transforming innovative ideas into successful products. They oversee the journey from concept to launch, ensuring that products meet market needs and engage users effectively. Their role combines strategic thinking with practical execution, requiring both creative insight and technical expertise.

So, which type of product manager are you? The roles include, but are not limited to:

Associate Product Manager

Technical Product Manager

Digital Product Manager

Growth Product Manager

Data Product Manager

Product Marketing Manager

AI Product Manager

Product Lead

Principal Product Manager

Head or VP of Product

Chief Product Officer.

Looking to land a job for one of the above roles?

If you’re seeking to enter or advance within product management , a good cover letter is key to landing more job interviews . A PM cover letter should convey your unique blend of skills, experiences, and passion for finding solutions while aligning with the specific needs and goals of the company you're targeting.

In this guide, we will explore: How to write a product manager cover letter. What to include in a product manager cover letter. Strategies for writing a product manager cover letter if you have no experience

Product manager cover letter example

To make your job application stand out even more, ensure consistency by using the same templates or design. Interested in a CV? Check out the matching product CV example.

What to include in a product manager cover letter?

A strong product management cover letter, much like a good CV , should begin with your contact information at the top, formatted in a professional business letter style. Be sure to include your name, location, phone number, and email address.

sections of a product manager cover letter

1. Intro: How to start a product manager cover letter

The introduction of your product manager cover letter sets the tone for your application and captures the reader's attention. It should be personalised, clearly stating the position you're applying for and briefly outlining why you're a strong fit for the role.

AI product manager cover letter example

I am excited to apply for the AI Product Manager position at Adobe, as advertised. With a solid background in both product management and artificial intelligence, including my recent work leading an AI driven project that increased user engagement by 30%, I am confident in my ability to contribute to Adobes AI innovative initiatives. My passion for harnessing AI to solve complex problems aligns perfectly with your companys mission to drive technological advancements.

Entry-level product manager cover letter example

I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the Entry-Level Product Manager role at Luna. As a recent graduate with a degree in Business Administration and a hands-on internship experience managing product development cycles, I am eager to bring my strong analytical skills and fresh perspective to your team. My recent project, which involved coordinating cross-functional teams to launch a new app feature, has prepared me to make meaningful contributions to your company.

Technical product manager cover letter example

I am thrilled to apply for the Technical Product Manager position at Adobe. With a robust background in product management and technical expertise, I recently spearheaded the development of a cloud-based platform that slashed system downtime by 40%, significantly enhancing user experience. I am confident in my ability to drive Adobes pioneering projects forward. My deep passion for utilising technology to solve complex challenges aligns perfectly with mission to lead in innovation and set new industry standards.

For additional examples, refer to how to start a cover letter or look at our extensive list of cover letter examples.

2. Body: How to write the body of a product manager cover letter

In the main body of your cover letter for a product manager, focus on detailing your qualifications and experiences, showing how they meet the employer's needs. After highlighting relevant skills, take it a step further by providing concrete examples to illustrate those skills in action. Whether you have a decade of experience or are just starting out, it's important to showcase relevant accomplishments, big or small, and explain how your unique expertise can add value to the team.

how to write a product manager cover letter

In my previous role at Google, I led a cross-functional team in developing an AI-driven recommendation engine that improved customer retention by 25%. My hands-on experience with machine learning algorithms and data analysis allowed me to bridge the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders effectively. I also implemented AI tools that streamlined product development processes, resulting in a 15% reduction in time-to-market for new features.

During my internship at Creative Sparks, I assisted in managing the lifecycle of a new app feature from concept through launch. My responsibilities included gathering user feedback, defining feature requirements, and coordinating with development teams. I played a key role in conducting market research and analysing user data, which informed product decisions and led to a 10% increase in user satisfaction. My academic background in Business Administration, combined with my hands-on experience, has equipped me with the foundational skills needed to excel in this entry-level product manager role. I am eager to apply my knowledge and contribute to Luna’s product management team

There is no one-size-fits-all cover letter strategy. For more tips, check out our article on cover letter structure.

3. Conclusion: How to end a product management cover letter

The conclusion of your product manager cover letter should leave a strong impression by summarising your enthusiasm for the role, reiterating your fit for the position, and outlining the next steps. It’s your final chance to encourage the hiring manager to take action.

how to end a product manager cover letter

With a genuine dedication to driving innovative product solutions and enhancing user experiences, I am thrilled at the prospect of joining the dynamic team at Luna as a Product Manager. I am excited to leverage my skills and experience to contribute to your product development efforts and support the company's mission to deliver outstanding solutions that resonate with users. Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my strategic vision and hands-on expertise to Luna and am eager to further discuss how I can make a meaningful impact on your product initiatives. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you in an interview. Kind Regards, Sean Williams

How to write a product manager cover letter example (no experience)

Writing a cover letter can already be a challenge in itself, especially when you're applying for a role in product management with no experience. However, with the right approach, you can highlight your transferable skills , passion for the industry, and willingness to learn, making you a strong candidate despite your lack of direct experience.

product manger cover letter no experience

Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to express my interest in the Junior Product Manager position at Adobe, as advertised. As a recent graduate with a degree in Business Management, I am eager to begin my career in product management, leveraging my strong analytical skills, collaborative nature, and passion for innovation. During my time at the University of London, I completed several relevant courses such as Product Development, Market Research, and Data Analytics. These courses provided me with a solid foundation in understanding customer needs, market trends, and the product lifecycle, which I believe are highly transferable to product management. My academic projects, particularly a capstone project where I led a team to design and develop a mobile app prototype, allowed me to experience the product development process firsthand—from ideation to user feedback and iteration. This hands-on experience enhanced my ability to analyse user requirements, prioritise features, and work effectively within a team. Although I am new to the field, I am highly motivated and a fast learner, ready to take on the challenges of product management. I am particularly drawn to Adobe because of its innovative products and commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology. I am eager to bring my fresh perspective and dedication to your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how I can contribute to Adobe. Sincerely, Sarah Jones

This example highlights how a recent graduate can focus on their transferable skills and enthusiasm for the role, making a strong case for their candidacy despite a lack of direct experience. For more examples, refer to how to write a cover letter with no experience . For additional examples, refer to how to end a cover letter.

Key takeaways

Tailor to the company and address a specific person.

Use formal language and clear structure.

State the position and express enthusiasm.

Highlight relevant skills and achievements.

Connect your experience with the company's goals.

Showcase technical proficiency.

Mention teamwork and leadership.

Discuss career goals and fit with the company.

Reiterate interest, request an interview, and thank the reader.

Check for errors and keep it concise.

Next steps?

If you're unsure about the layout or content of your product manager cover letter, browse our extensive collection of cover letter templates and CV examples for inspiration. Alternatively, you can seek help from a professional through our CV Writing Service , which also offers LinkedIn profile optimisation.

Create your product manager cover letter

How do i write a cover letter for an associate product manager.

Tailor your cover letter to the company and the associate product manager role by emphasising your relevant skills and any prior experience. Highlight your eagerness to learn and grow within the field, providing examples of teamwork and problem-solving abilities. Show how your background aligns with the company’s mission and goals to demonstrate your fit for the position.

What is the best letter template for a product management cover letter?

An effective template includes an introduction stating the position and expressing enthusiasm, a body section that highlights your key achievements and skills while aligning them with the company's needs, and a conclusion that reiterates your interest, requests an interview, and thanks the reader. This structure ensures clarity and relevance. For additional tips, check out the ideal cover letter length and the best font for a cover letter.

How do I write a cover letter for a product marketing manager?

Focus on showcasing your marketing skills and experience with product management. Highlight specific achievements in product launches, market analysis, and campaign management. Make sure to align your experience with the company’s marketing strategy and objectives, demonstrating how you can contribute to their success.

Land the interview for your dream job with CVMaker

Effortlessly create your professional CV within 10 minutes and download it whenever and wherever you want!

Increase your chances of landing your dream job with CVMaker.

Webinar: How To Write Your Academic Job Application, Part I--Cover Letter and CV

Live Webinar with Dr. Karen Kelsky, Professor Is In

Newly updated for COVID19, in this 90-minute webinar we examine the first two primary documents in an academic job application--the cover letter and cv. I explain the role of each of these in presenting your profile, and the relative importance of each in the deliberations of the search committee. I then give recommendations for the most effective content, organization, and tone of each of these documents, with examples, and show the most common mistakes made by job applicants, the errors of thinking that lie behind these mistakes, and the ways to correct them.

The focus is both on specific techniques of writing and self-presentation, but also on the unspoken principles and biases that govern tenure-track hiring. We also cover COVID-19 specific considerations like how to describe online instruction, etc.

There will be 30 minutes of Q and A at the end. All participants get access to a free downloadable recording. It comes 24 hours after the live event. Be sure and check your spam and Promotions folders if you don't see it.

Sold by : The Professor Is In

IMAGES

20 Free Professional Resume Cover Letter Format Templates for Jobs 2020
5+ Matching CV Cover Letter Template Examples
Perfect Examples Of Cover Letter And Application Free Sample Cv For Job
How to Write a Job Application Letter? (30 Best Examples)
5+ Matching CV Cover Letter Template Examples
Cover Letter Teacher, Great Cover Letters, Job Cover Letter, Cover

COMMENTS

12 CV cover letter examples
Marketing CV cover letter. This marketing cover letter provides readers with a summary of the candidate's core marketing abilities such as media planning, brand awareness and cost reduction. It also explains the types of marketing campaigns and companies they have experience with - a great high-level intro.
How To Write a Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)
Cover letter format. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Jenn shares her advice on how and why to write a cover letter.
How To Write an Application Letter (With Template and Example)
The image is titled Cover Letter vs Resume. An example cover letter is on the left with tips written below it. The cover letter reads: Malik Rabb (123)456-7891 [email protected] May 1, 2020 Dear Hiring Manager, I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for the associate marketing position at Retail Ocean. Storytelling through marketing is a true passion of mine, and I graduated with a four-year ...
How To Write a Cover Letter for a CV (With 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.
200+ Professional Cover Letter Examples for Job Seekers
Employer name. Company Name. Street address. City, State. Salutation. Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], Opening Paragraph (Introduction) Your cover letter opening should contain a self-introduction. Write about who you are, where your expertise lies, where you found the job posting, and why you want to apply for the job.
The CV Cover Letter: What It Is and How to Write It Well
How to write a CV cover letter. You can use the following process to write an effective CV cover letter: 1. Identify the requirements for the position. Read the job description well and identify employer expectations in relation to academic achievements, education, skills, and experience. Make a list of these expectations.
How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]
How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter #1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template #2. Put Contact Information in the Header #3. Address the Hiring Manager #4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction #5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details #6. Wrap It Up and Sign It Cover Letter Writing Checklist 15 Cover Letter Tips 15+ Cover Letter Examples 5 ...
How to Write a Letter of Application (Example & Tips)
No hard numbers. "I worked in a team and provided customer service to elderly residents". 5. Choose engaging words for your application letter. Your letter of application's length should be 250 to 400 words or 3 to 4 paragraphs — long enough to get your point across but short enough that the reader won't lose interest.
Free CV Cover Letter Templates: Download for Word & G Docs
CV Cover Letter Templates. Need a cover letter to pair with your CV template? Our free CV cover letter templates feature a variety of styles and are available for both Word and Google Docs. If you're looking for something different, browse the rest of our cover letter templates. Build My Cover Letter Now.
How to Write an Application Letter—Examples & Guide
Use the same font you chose for your resume. Left-align all content. Keep your application letter length to only one page. Just like with your resume margins, set them to 1-inch on your job application letter as well. Leave ample white space by using double-spacing between paragraphs and setting line spacing to 1.15.
How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job in 2024 (+Examples)
Use double cover letter spacing between paragraphs and 1-1.15 between lines. Title your cover letter by JobTitle—CoverLetter—YourName. Let your cover letter layout stay intact en route to the recruiter by saving the file in PDF. Fit all the information included in the letter on one page.
A Comprehensive Cover Letter for CV Guide w/ Examples & Templates
Since both a CV and a cover letter are not always required, some employers may skip your CV letter email. To keep them reading until the end, you will need to create a compelling job application cover letter for your CV. Let us show you how! 1. Use the correct format. Here are the elements that should be included in a CV application letter ...
How to Write a Job Application Letter (With Examples)
Heading: A job application letter should begin with both your and the employer's contact information (name, address, phone number, email), followed by the date. If this is an email rather than an actual letter, include your contact information at the end of the letter, after your signature. Header Examples.
Job Application Letter: Examples, What to Include & Writing Tips
It means that you need to provide the following information: Your personal info (name, email, phone number/LinkedIn) Date written. The recipient's info (name, job title, email, company address) Example of an application letter header: Kaylee Tran. 9215 Fremontia Ave, Fontana, CA 92335.
Writing a Winning Job Application Letter: Tips and Examples
A job application letter, also known as a cover letter, is a formal letter that accompanies your resume and introduces you to a potential employer. The purpose of a job application letter is to highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills that make you the perfect candidate for the job. It also helps employers understand your personality, work ethic, and how you plan to contribute to ...
Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application
This is a sample cover letter. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for an email sample. John Donaldson 8 Sue Circle Smithtown, CA 08067 909-555-5555 [email protected]. September 6, 2023. George Gilhooley LTC Company 87 Delaware Road Hatfield, CA 08065.
How to write the perfect cover letter (With examples)
1. Begin by introducing yourself. To start your cover letter, introduce yourself. This means including your full name, your specific interest in the position and the reasons you've chosen to apply. If you got a referral to the job from another party, ensure to mention this in the first paragraph. 2.
Free Curriculum Vitae (CV) Template (Plus CV Example)
Free Curriculum Vitae (CV) Template (Plus CV Example) Jenn shares the key differences between a CV and a resume and provides an in-depth guide to formatting and structuring a CV. During the job search process, employers may ask for a resume or a CV, also known as a curriculum vitae, as part of your application.
60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]
Consultant Cover Letter Example #10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example #11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example #12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example #13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example #14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example #15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example #16.
PDF CVs and Cover Letters
There is no single best format. Refer to samples for ideas, but craft your CV to best reflect you and your unique accomplishments. Unlike a resume, there is no page limit, but most graduate students' CVs are two to five pages in length. Your CV may get no more than thirty seconds of the reader's attention, so ensure the
Essential Components of a Powerful Job Application Letter
A job application letter, or a cover letter, accompanies your resume when you apply for a job. It provides an opportunity to introduce yourself, highlight your qualifications, and explain why you are a perfect fit for the position. In this blog, we'll explore the key components that make a job application letter stand out. Contact Information
Cover Letter Templates
Each basic template is free to download (compatible with Microsoft Word and Google Docs), and will help you create the perfect cover letter for whatever job you apply for. The Classic. "The Classic" cover letter template is clean, traditional, and the perfect format to start off your application. Chicago.
Difference Between Cover Letter and Application Letter
Formal tone: An application letter tends to be more formal and structured than a cover letter. Detailed introduction: It includes a more comprehensive introduction, outlining your qualifications and reasons for applying. Standalone document: Unlike a cover letter, which accompanies a resume, an application letter can be a standalone document.
Product Manager Cover Letter (Guide with Examples)
A strong product management cover letter, much like a good CV, should begin with your contact information at the top, formatted in a professional business letter style. Be sure to include your name, location, phone number, and email address. ... Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my ...
Webinar: How To Write Your Academic Job Application, Part I--Cover
Newly updated for COVID19, in this 90-minute webinar we examine the first two primary documents in an academic job application--the cover letter and cv. I explain the role of each of these in presenting your profile, and the relative importance of each in the deliberations of the search committee.

12 CV cover letter examples

How to layout a cover letter for your CV

Example CV cover letters

Admin CV cover letter

Customer service CV cover letter

Finance CV cover letter

Events CV cover letter

Executive assistant CV cover letter

Graduate CV cover letter

IT CV cover letter

Marketing CV cover letter

More cover letter examples

Project manager CV cover letter

Operations manager cover letter

Sales CV cover letter

Teacher cover letter

How to write your CV cover letter

Send your CV cover letter in email format (when possible)

Make your subject line appealing

Address the recruiter by name

Use a friendly yet professional tone

Keep it brief

Show how your skills match the job

Include a professional signature

Writing a CV cover letter

How to Write an Application Letter—Examples & Guide

What Is a Letter of Application?

Letter of Application Example

How to Write a Letter of Application

1. Use the Right Format of an Application Letter for a Job

2. Address Your Letter of Application Properly

Letter of Application Example—Address

3. Open Up With an Enticing First Paragraph

Sample Application Letter for a Job—First Paragraph

Example of an Application Letter with No Experience—First Paragraph

4. Prove Your Expertise in the Main Body

How to Write an Application Letter—Main Body Section Example

Sample Letter of Application for a Job With No Experience—Main Body

5. Finish Your Application Letter With a Clear CTA

Ending a Job Application Letter—Sample

Was it interesting? Here are similar articles

Email Cover Letter: 5 Samples & Writing Guide + Expert Tips

Free Cover Letter Templates for Word to Start With

How to Write a Motivation Letter: Sample & Guide for 2024

Job Application Letter: Examples, What to Include & Writing Tips

What Is an Application Letter?

1. Letter header

2. Salutation

3. Introduction paragraph

4. Body paragraph(s)

5. Closing paragraph

6. Signature

Sample of an application letter for a job vacancy

Simple job application email sample

✅ Start with a professional subject line.

✅ Highlight your skills.

✅ Incorporate related keywords.

✅ Be concise.

✅ Express your gratitude.

✅ Include a strong CTA.

✅ Proofread before sending it out.

More Career and Recruitment Resources

Resume Builder

More Articles you might be interested in

Writing a Winning Job Application Letter: Tips and Examples

Importance of Customization

Brief Overview of Key Sections

Understand the Job Requirements

A. Analyzing the Job Description

B. Understanding the Needs of the Employer

C. Tailoring the Letter to Attract Specific Employer

Research the Company and Industry

A. Understanding the Mission, Vision, and Values of the Company

B. Identifying the Company’s Competition

C. Industry Trends and How to Address Them

Know Your Strengths and Skills

A. Identifying Your Unique Selling Proposition

B. Highlighting Your Relevant Experience and Accomplishments

C. Understanding How to Leverage Transferrable Skills

Address Gaps in Your Resume or Experience