how to write about your experience in a cover letter

• Terms And Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Editorial Policy

Home » 11+ Best Cover Letter With Experience Examples

11+ Best Cover Letter With Experience Examples

As you know, a cover letter is an important part of any job application. It’s your chance to introduce yourself and explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the position. If you have experience in the field, be sure to highlight your experience in your cover letter. You can use specific examples to illustrate your skills and accomplishments. For instance, if you helped increase sales at your previous job, mention that in your cover letter.

These examples will help show the employer that you’re the right person for the job. So, take some time to review our cover letter examples with experience and customize one for your own use. With a little effort, you can increase your chances of landing an interview and getting hired. Good luck!

Table of Contents

How To Write a cover Letter With No Experience?

A cover letter is usually the first step in your job application process. It is an essential tool that allows you to introduce yourself, state your qualifications, and explain why you are the best candidate for the job. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to writing a cover letter, there are some general tips that will help you create a strong and effective letter.

First, make sure to tailor your letter to the specific job you are applying for. Second, focus on highlighting your most relevant qualifications and experiences. Finally, avoid repeating information from your resume; instead, use your cover letter as an opportunity to elaborate on why you are the ideal candidate for the job. By following these tips, you can write a cover letter that will help you stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Related: How To Write a Cover Letter (And Get Hired in 2022!)

Cover Letter For Internship With Experience

To Whom It May Concern,

Writing to apply for the position of Intern at XYZ Company. It is a recent college graduate with a degree in Business Administration and I have previous experience working in an office setting. I am well-organized, detail-oriented, and have excellent communication skills. I am confident that I can be a valuable asset to your team and would greatly appreciate the opportunity to intern with your company.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Related: Cover Letter for Internship with no Experience: 09 Samples & Examples

Cover Letter With Experience Sample

To Whom It May Concern The writing in regards to the open position for a experienced ___________ that you have. To attached my resume for your convenience. The have worked as a ___________ for over three years and have gained the skills and experience needed to excel in this role. I am confident that I can be an asset to your team and contribute to the success of your company.

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

Related: 05+ Best Legal Secretary Cover Letter Samples

Short Cover Letter Examples With Experience

I am writing in regards to the open position for a ___________ that I saw on ___________. I have _____ years of experience in this field and I believe that I am the perfect candidate for the job.

In my previous roles, I have been responsible for ___________. This has given me the skills and experience needed to be successful in this role. I am a motivated individual who is always looking for new challenges.

I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Related: 05+ Creative DevOps Cover Letter Samples & Examples

Cover Letter For Job With Experience

The writing in regards to the job opening that you have. It immensely excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to your company’s success.

Have three years of experience in the customer service industry, which has taught me the importance of providing excellent service to customers. I possess strong communication skills and a positive attitude, which I believe would be a valuable asset to your team. In addition, I am able to work well under pressure and can handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

I am confident that I have the skills and experience needed to excel in this position, and I am eager to put my skills to work for your company. I look forward to discussing my qualifications in further detail.

Related: 07 Best Cover Letter for Federal Job Samples

Cover Letter For First Job With Experience

To Whom It May Concern, Writing to apply for the position of Sales Associate at your company. I am a recent graduate of XYZ University and have previous experience working in customer service and retail sales. I am confident that I can be a valuable asset to your team and contribute to the success of your business.

Some of my key strengths include:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong work ethic and motivation to succeed
• ·Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines
• Great customer service skills

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications and experience with you further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, John Doe. Your Address Phone Number

Your Email Address

Related: Indeed Cover Letter: 07 Templates and Samples

Things To Include in a Cover Letter With No Experience

When you’re applying for jobs, a cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself to potential employers and show them why you’re the right person for the job, even if you don’t have any prior work experience. So, what should you include in a cover letter with no experience?

First, start by introducing yourself and explain why you’re interested in the position. Then, highlight any skills or qualifications that make you a good fit for the job. Next, illustrate your passion for the company and explain how you can contribute to their success. Finally, thank the employer for their time and consideration.

By following these tips, you can craft a compelling cover letter that will give you a better chance of landing an interview – even if you don’t have any prior work experience.

Related: What is Cover Letter? Complete Guide To Get any Job.

A cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your skills and experience to an employer. While a resume provides a summary of your work history, a cover letter gives you the chance to highlight your key qualifications and explain why you are the best candidate for the job.

If you have relevant work experience, the body of your cover letter should focus on how your skills and abilities align with the job requirements. Be sure to mention specific examples of how you have made a positive impact in your previous roles. If you do not have professional experience, you can focus on your related academic achievements or extracurricular activities. Remember to emphasize transferable skills that will be useful in the new role.

The closing paragraph of your cover letter is an opportunity to reiterate your interest in the position and thank the employer for their time and consideration. Be sure to include a call-to-action, such as requesting an interview or asking for additional information about the job.

By following these tips, you can write a compelling cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of landing an interview.

You may also like

Cover Letter for Ph.D. Application: 5 Template ideas

Customer Service Representative Cover Letter: 09...

Waitress Cover Letter: 07 Template Ideas

Computer Science Cover Letter: 05 Ready Template

9 Best Associate Cover Letter Samples [Free]

Creative Inspiring Cover Letters: 7+ Template

About the author.

Jessica William

Leave a comment x.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

A demo is the first step to transforming your business. Meet with us to develop a plan for attaining your goals.

• What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Research, expert insights, and resources to develop courageous leaders within your organization.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

• BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

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

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

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

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

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

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

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

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

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

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

1. Personalization

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

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

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

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

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

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

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

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

Clear and concise writing

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

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

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

Achievements and accomplishments

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

Enthusiasm and motivation

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

Professionalism

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

How do you structure a cover letter?

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

Contact information

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

Employer's contact information

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

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

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

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

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

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

1. Add a header and contact information

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

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

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

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

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

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

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

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

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

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

3. Draw them in with an opening story

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

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

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

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

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

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

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

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

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

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

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

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

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

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

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

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

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

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

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

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

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

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

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

Should I include references in my cover letter?

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

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

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

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

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

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

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

Ace your job search

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

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

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

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

Chatgpt cover letters: how to use this tool the right way, how to write an impactful cover letter for a career change, write thank you letters after interviews to stand out as job applicant, send a thank you email after an internship to boost your career, character references: 4 tips for a successful recommendation letter, use professional reference templates to make hiring smoother, what is a letter of intent examples on how to write one, tips and tricks for writing a letter of interest (with examples), similar articles, 24 action verbs for your resume that will get you the job, how to ask for a letter of recommendation (with examples), anxious about meetings learn how to run a meeting with these 10 tips, how to write a letter of recommendation (with examples), stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform Overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care™
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case Studies
• Why BetterUp?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Life Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• BetterUp Labs
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences

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 

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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 

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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.

• For Companies & Teams
• Buy Products
• Help & Support

For Individuals

Unlock the world's most advanced digital business card

Manage your team's digital business cards

• Best Sellers
• Custom Accessories
• Bundle & Save
• Shop By Collection
• Why Choose Popl?
• Popl Partners
• Documentation
• FAQ & Tutorials
• Help Center
• Custom Card
• Popl Metal Card
• Popl Duo Bundle
• Popl Card Lux
• Popl PhoneCard™
• Popl Rope Band
• Custom PhoneCard™
• Custom Metal Card
• Custom Badge
• Popl Card 3-Pack
• Popl Card 5-Pack
• Popl Card 25-Pack
• Popl PhoneCard™ 3-Pack
• Popl PhoneCard™ 5-Pack
• Back of Phone
• For Businesses & Events

Your cart is empty

How to Write a Cover Letter When You’re Changing Careers (or a New Grad)

Apr 16, 2024

By Nancy Koziol

Across the world, people as young as 15 are put in the position of choosing the line of work they'd like to pursue. At this early age, we're barely beyond aspiring to be astronauts or superheroes. Forced to choose, be it during the early teen years outside of the US or the late teens and early twenties in the US, many of us find ourselves in one of two positions. Either we decide changing careers is the right move, or we're entering the workforce with zero experience and approaching a job application. We discussed how to craft a resume if you find yourself in this position but didn't cover the other half of the application equation. How is it possible to accomplish writing a cover letter with no experience? That's today's topic.

Stats on Career Changers

Career changes are more common than you might think.

• 70% of the workforce is actively seeking a career change . That's not a typo! Most people seek a change in their career path. In 2020, 87% of people under 25 were considering a career change . The five most common reasons for changing careers probably won't surprise you.
• Most (41%) consider leaving because their employer ignored their distress during the pandemic .
• In 2020, the main reason people considered changing careers was to make more money . That accounted for 39%.
• 27% of people change careers for improved work-life balance . This was the #1 reason in 2021.
• 26% of workers planned to change careers once the pandemic ended . This likely links back to the fact that many felt their employers weren't responsive to the significant emotional toll the pandemic took.
• 22% of workers wanted to leave their career to start a business . A bold, but fairly common move!

Understanding the Career Change Cover Letter

When changing careers, or as a new entrant into the job search, it's common to have to submit a well-crafted cover letter and resume to hiring managers.

There are several approaches to this task. Some people choose to introduce themselves and turn their resume into a narrative. Most hiring managers find these resumes at best boring and, at worst, lazy.

Candidates can capture the reader's attention by drafting a personalized cover letter that illustrates how the candidate fits the position. This can be communicated through sharing quantified metrics, platform fluency and relevant skills.

But what about when you're a new grad or career changer? Here, the key is showing prospective employers what you bring to the table while not drawing attention to the fact that you're lacking experience.

An Effective Cover Letter Hooks the Reader

We're not suggesting you do anything too outside of the box for your cover letter, but if you're in the position we're discussing today, it's important to take a bold approach to your cover letter.

The most important thing, just like when crafting a resume, is to understand what the company's values are and what skills match you and the position. There are two ways to discover this information.

Research Your Prospective Employer

Before writing a cover letter with no experience, be sure to understand both the position and the company you're applying to.

The two best resources to help you on this first step to your new career path are the company website and the job description.

Peruse the company website. See if you can find the mission statement (where they are now) and vision statement (who they'd like to become). Words used in these that are repeated elsewhere on the site will give you a good sense of their values and what they're seeking.

For example, if the mission and vision include words like "community-minded," "independent" and "fresh perspective" and you see these elsewhere on the site, you know these are important.

Does the job description include these? Chances are it does. Jot down the most common words and phrases and use those to plan your cover letter.

Organizing a Strong Cover Letter

If you're writing a career change cover letter or one where you don't have experience, do not lead with this information. Instead, structure your introductory letter to show how you embody the keywords you noticed.

Using our existing example of "community-minded," "independent," and "fresh perspective," the first thing you'll want to do is make three columns. Under each, list examples of how you've exhibited these traits. The lists don't have to be equal in length or quality, it's even okay if you can't think of anything under a list.

Review your lists and highlight places where you have direct experience. Including this will make a strong impression.

Drafting The Meat of Your Letter

Pick two things from your list that exemplify both that you align with the values of the company and that you have relevant skills.

You'll craft two strong paragraphs illustrating this. For example, if you did an independent study project that you won an award for, this shows independence. It may not be directly related to the position or career, but it shows the ability to work both doggedly and independently.

Your paragraphs should feature two different aspects of their values, the job description and your lists. Follow the sage writing advice "show, don't tell," and approach it as storytelling.

Craft a Strong Opening Paragraph for your Cover Letter

Imagine you're meeting someone for the first time and when they hold out their hand to shake yours they say, "I've never shaken someone's hand before." Whether or not their handshake is a good one, you'll go into it expecting a mediocre one at best.

Do not start a cover letter with a self-deprecating statement like, "I know you can tell from my resume that I don't have any transferable skills or relevant experience."

Instead, start stronger.

If you're feeling particularly brave, you can dive right into one of your middle paragraphs. But, it's fine to start with a more traditional opening.

Many people choose to start with an introduction and why they are applying. The hiring manager is also going to see your resume, so don't be redundant. We recommend showing that you're excited by the job. Here you can weave in some of those words and values you've found.

Starting with, "When I saw that [COMPANY] was hiring a [POSITION APPLYING FOR], I knew I had to apply," is an example of a strong opening statement. It shows interest and knowledge and that the cover letter is not just a boilerplate. Remember, hiring managers want personalized resumes and cover letters.

Keep your opening brief and punchy. Balance your language. Don't use overly casual language, but don't try to sound too formal. This can give the impression that a candidate is lacking communication skills.

Ending Your Letter

Near the end of your cover letter, it is okay to acknowledge that you are a career changer or new to the workforce . Your letter, thus far, has been engaging and showed off how you're a good fit. You've told a story of who you are and how you'll fit in.

Never Complain, Never Explain

Don't apologize or put yourself down over a lack of experience. A cover letter should convey confidence. Try language like, "My experience may not be exactly what you'd expect from an applicant but my proven ability to work independently and innovative approach to budgeting align with your values and needs."

Downplay what you don't have. Highlight what you do.

Cover Letter Tips for Everyone

No matter the job opening you're applying for, your level of experience or transferable skills, here are the most important tips for your cover letter.

Do not go Over one Page

The hiring manager in charge of reading cover letters and resumes is not going to spend much time, so make sure your letter is tight and doesn't require going onto a second page.

Use the Active Voice

Consider the following two sentences:

• I have been managing lower-ranking employees at my place of work and was responsible for creating a system to get people to show up on time.
• I increased timeliness by 90% as a manager. (Also acceptable: As a manager, I increased timeliness by 90%.

The first sentence uses more words to say less.

The second sentence better communicates information and adds quantification. You've not only saved room; you've gotten your point across!

Don't be Fancy

Do not use unusual or paid fonts, colored text or extensive formatting. And please, do not ever include a picture on your resume. Hiring managers will not take these seriously.

Use a serif font (one with feet like Times New Roman) if you are submitting a print copy. For digital and online resumes , use a sans serif font (like Arial).

An 11- or 12- point font is the right choice. Be sure the font color is set to black.

Proofread Carefully

Proofreading is very different from using spell check. Yes, you should use spelling and grammar checkers (Google now includes a decent proofreading functionality in its workspace) but take time to actually read it yourself, too.

If possible, ask someone you trust to proofread for you. We recommend asking for specific feedback. For example, "Can you proofread this and only focus on places where you think I could be more concise?" This will avoid everyone trying to rewrite your letter to suit their personal tastes.

Don't Give up

The job search is grueling. But if you take the time to craft personalized, job opening specific cover letters and resumes that follow these guidelines you're far more likely to get a response.

Reading next

How to Write a Resume With No Experience

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before being published.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

How to Write a Cover Letter When You Have No Experience

A s a job seeker, a cover letter is your chance to make a great first impression. It can help you stand out and show your potential as a valuable addition to the team.

Writing a persuasive cover letter without prior work experience can be challenging. But with the right approach, you can make a compelling case for why you're the perfect fit for the job. In this article, we'll help you write an effective cover letter that leaves a lasting impression on your potential employer.

1. Begin With a Strong Opening Statement

Your opening statement should be attention-grabbing and highlight your interest in the position. Start with a brief introduction about yourself and why you're applying for the job. Avoid generic or cliché openings, such as "I am writing to apply for the job opening at your company."

Instead, try to show your personality and interest in the position. If you know someone at the company or have a connection, mention it in the opening statement. For example, "I'm excited to hear about this opportunity from a friend in your marketing department."

Your opening statement should be no more than two to three sentences long. Remember, the goal is to get your potential employer to keep reading and learn more about you.

2. Highlight Your Education and Relevant Coursework

When writing a cover letter, you may want to highlight your education and relevant coursework. Your education provides a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that can be applied to a job. While doing so, mention your degree and any relevant coursework you have completed.

For instance, if you're applying for a marketing role, showcase any relevant marketing coursework or projects. You can also highlight relevant accomplishments. It's important to note that not all achievements will be relevant to every job application.

If your academic achievements are relevant to the position, mention them in your cover letter. Provide specific examples of how they showcase your strengths and potential as a candidate.

3. Focus on Your Strengths and Transferable Skills

Transferable skills are skills that can be applied across different jobs and industries. While demonstrating transferable skills on your CV helps, including them in your cover letter can further enhance your job application.

Common transferable skills include teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, time management, and more. Instead of listing your transferable skills, give specific examples. Share experiences from any team activities where you tackled challenges and found solutions.

4. Mention the Company Values That Align With You

Organizations often emphasize cultural fit during the hiring process. By highlighting your alignment with the company values, you provide evidence of your potential cultural fit for the work environment and team dynamics.

Research the company and identify its important values that resonate with you. Start by visiting the company's official website. Look for sections like "About Us," "Mission and Values," or "Our Culture." You can also check the social media profiles, employee testimonials, or any press releases that highlight the company’s values.

Once you've identified the company values you want to highlight, provide specific examples to support them. Share anecdotes or experiences that showcase how you have lived out these values. For instance, if one of the company values is "collaboration," mention a successful team project where you collaborated.

5. Use Keywords From the Job Description

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen and filter resumes and cover letters. These systems often scan for specific keywords to identify qualified candidates. By adding the right keywords, you can increase the chances of your cover letter aligning with the employer's requirements.

Pay attention to the specific words and phrases in the job description and mirror them in your cover letter. For instance, if the description mentions "attention to detail" as a required skill, use similar wording to describe your attention to detail in previous projects or assignments.

While it's essential to add relevant keywords, avoid excessive repetition or keyword stuffing. Aim for a natural flow in your writing. Focus on showcasing your skills and experiences rather than forcefully inserting keywords without proper context.

6. Express Your Enthusiasm

Next, as you end your cover letter, show your enthusiasm for the role and the company. It will show your potential employer that you are passionate about the opportunity. Highlight specific aspects of the company or the position that excites you. Refer to the company’s recent projects, initiatives, or achievements that have caught your attention.

While it's important to express enthusiasm, remember to maintain a professional tone in your cover letter. Strike a balance between enthusiasm and professionalism to show your interest and suitability for the role. Use a positive tone throughout your cover letter. Avoid generic phrases and opt for more specific and vivid descriptions that showcase your interests.

7. Proofread Your Cover Letter

After completing your cover letter, take a break before proofreading. This break helps you approach the proofreading process with fresh eyes, making it easier to spot areas that need improvement. Consider using the best spelling and grammar-checking tools or seeking help from a trusted friend or colleague.

Here's an Example of a Cover Letter

Dear [Employer's Name],

I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Position] role at [Company Name]. I was thrilled to learn about this opportunity from my friend, [Friend's Name], who works in your marketing department. From my research and conversations, I have come to admire [Company Name]'s commitment to innovation and its positive impact on the industry.

As a recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in [Your Field of Study] from [University Name], I have developed a solid foundation in [relevant coursework or major subjects]. Through my coursework, I have gained a deep understanding of [specific concepts or skills relevant to the position], which I believe will contribute to my success in the [Position] role at [Company Name].

At [University Name], I had the privilege of working on various projects that required strong teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication skills. In my marketing research course, I led a team project where we conducted extensive market analysis. We developed a comprehensive marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in customer engagement for a local business.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review. I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss how my qualifications align with the goals and vision of [Company Name].

Once again, I appreciate your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of joining the exceptional team at [Company Name] and contributing to its continued success.

[Your Name]

Stand Out With a Compelling Cover Letter

With a well-crafted cover letter, you can convey your potential and convince employers to consider you for the position. Remember to tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company, highlighting the most relevant aspects of your background and showcasing your interest in the opportunity.