good cover letters for job application

1,500+ Cover Letter Examples

Explore thousands of cover letter examples across job functions, industries, experience levels, and more.

Cover Letter Samples by Job Category

Popular Cover Letter Examples

Administrative

Distinguish your application with our compelling Administrative cover letter examples. Crafted for secretaries, office managers, and administrative professionals, our samples guide you in articulating your organizational prowess and support skills, making you indispensable in the job market.

Elevate your storytelling with our Content cover letter examples. Designed for writers, editors, and content creators, these samples empower you to weave your narrative, showcasing your ability to engage and inform, positioning your application at the forefront of the content industry.

Customer Service

Transform your service experience into compelling narratives with our Customer Service cover letter examples. Tailored for service representatives and managers, these guides illustrate how to highlight your empathy, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction skills, setting you apart in the service sector.

Data & Analytics

Showcase your analytical acumen with our Data & Analytics cover letter examples. Ideal for data scientists, analysts, and engineers, our templates help you present your data-driven insights and project impact, positioning you as a key asset in a data-centric world.

Bring your design narrative to life with our Design & UX cover letter examples. Perfect for creative professionals, these samples help you articulate your design philosophy and user-centric approach, ensuring your application stands out in the creative industry.

Dev/Engineering

Illustrate your technical expertise with our Dev & Engineering cover letter examples. Designed for software developers, engineers, and IT professionals, these samples guide you in showcasing your problem-solving skills and project achievements, highlighting your contribution to tech innovations.

Inspire with your story through our Education cover letter examples. Crafted for teachers, administrators, and educational professionals, these guides help you convey your commitment to education and student success, enhancing your application in the academic community.

Secure your next financial role with our expert Finance cover letter examples. Tailored for accountants, analysts, and finance professionals, our samples guide you in underscoring your financial acumen and stewardship, elevating your application in the finance sector.

Human Resources

Build connections with our Human Resources cover letter examples. Designed for HR professionals, these guides enable you to highlight your people skills and organizational impact, ensuring your application stands out in the human resources arena.

Information Technology

Communicate your IT prowess with our Information Technology cover letter examples. Ideal for IT specialists and system administrators, these samples help you detail your technological solutions and successes, showcasing your value in the tech industry.

Use any of our Legal cover letter examples for free. Crafted for legal professionals, these samples guide you in presenting your legal knowledge and case-management skills, positioning your application as a strong contender in the legal field.

Market your skills effectively with our Marketing cover letter examples. Designed for marketing professionals, these guides help you highlight your strategic thinking and campaign successes, ensuring your application shines in the marketing industry.

Streamline your path to success with our Operations cover letter examples. Tailored for operations managers and COOs, these samples assist you in showcasing your efficiency and operational achievements, driving your application forward in the operations sector.

Launch your career forward with our Product cover letter examples. Perfect for product managers and strategists, these samples guide you in detailing your vision and product success stories, making your application compelling in the product management field.

Project Management

Lead with confidence using our Project Management cover letter examples. Designed for project leaders and coordinators, these guides help you articulate your project successes and leadership skills, positioning you as an effective project manager.

Drive your sales career forward with our Sales cover letter examples. Tailored for sales professionals, these samples help you highlight your revenue-driving achievements and customer relationship skills, ensuring your application stands out in the sales industry.

Stand out in your unique field with our professional cover letter examples. Designed for emerging roles and unique professions, these guides help you articulate your distinct skills and experiences, ensuring your application catches attention in any industry.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. Customizing your cover letter for each job application is crucial as it allows you to specifically address the company's needs and how your skills align with the role. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the position and enhances your chances of catching the employer's attention. Refer to our varied cover letter examples to understand how to tailor your message for different job applications effectively.

A well-crafted cover letter should include: An introduction : Mention the job you’re applying for and a brief personal introduction. Body paragraphs : Explain your qualifications, experiences, and why you’re a good fit for the role. A closing statement : Conclude with a call to action, such as requesting an interview. Each of our cover letter samples incorporates these elements, ensuring you reference a correctly structured example.

To create an impactful cover letter, follow these steps: 1. Research the company and role to tailor your letter. 2. Start with a strong introduction that captures attention. 3. In the body, detail your relevant experience and skills. 4. Conclude with a strong closing statement and call to action. 5. Proofread for any errors. Our cover letter examples follow this structure to help you build an effective letter for any job application.

Tailoring your cover letter involves connecting your experiences and skills directly with the job's requirements. Refer to the job description, using similar language and highlighting how your background makes you a perfect fit. This customization shows the employer that you’ve researched the company and understand the role's needs. Use our cover letter samples as a blueprint for how to align your letter with specific job criteria.

Your cover letter should typically be no longer than one page. Aim to concisely cover all relevant points within three to four paragraphs. This ensures your letter is impactful without being overwhelming. Following the length and format of our cover letter examples can guide you in creating a concise yet comprehensive letter tailored to your application.

A great cover letter is personalized, concise, and clear. It showcases your relevant experiences, aligns with the company’s goals, and addresses the specific needs of the job. It should complement your resume, highlight your unique value, and conclude with a proactive next step. Strive for a tone that’s professional yet approachable, reflecting your genuine interest in the role and company.

Cover Letter Examples to Inspire Your Application

Crafting a cover letter that catches the eye of a hiring manager is a crucial step in the job application process. It’s your chance to tell a story that your resume cannot fully convey — to inject personality, explain the nuances of your career journey, and add color to your accomplishments. In this blog, we will explore some cover letter examples that serve as a beacon of inspiration, including good cover letter examples, a standout cover letter example, and robust resume cover letter examples.  

The Art of Personalization: Cover Letter Examples

Personalization is key when it comes to writing cover letters. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all job applications. Employers can tell when they’re reading a template that’s been sent to dozens of other companies. To truly stand out, take a cue from compelling cover letter examples that reflect a deep understanding of the company and the role. Your cover letter should mirror the language of the job description and speak to the specific values and needs of the company.  

Stand Out with Good Cover Letter Examples

What separates a good cover letter from a great one? It’s about more than just using correct grammar and spelling (although those are crucial, too). Good cover letter examples typically start with a strong opening that’s more than just stating your name and the job you’re applying for. They exhibit enthusiasm for the role, connect your personal mission to the company’s goals, and demonstrate that you’ve done more than just a cursory glance at the company website.  

Also Read: Form and Function: Mastering the Format of Your Cover Letter  

Anatomy of a Strong Cover Letter Example

A strong cover letter example showcases not just qualifications but also success stories. For instance, instead of simply saying you’re a great salesperson, a cover letter might highlight how you led your team to exceed sales targets by a certain percentage or how you grew a territory’s revenue over a quarter. Good cover letters also make connections between past experiences and how those can benefit the future employer, providing a clear picture of why you’re the perfect fit for the job.  

Resume Cover Letter Examples that Win Interviews

Your resume cover letter is your ticket to landing an interview, so it should supplement your resume rather than regurgitate it. Effective resume cover letter examples often begin with a punchy statement or a notable achievement that aligns with the job. They then delve into more depth about particular experiences highlighted in the resume, expanding on pivotal moments or projects. They’re not just claiming expertise; they’re showing it through clear, quantifiable examples.  

Also Read: Job Interviews: Your Ultimate Guide  

Cover Letter Example: Blending Passion with Expertise

Let’s put all this advice into practice with a cover letter example:  

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],  

I was thrilled to see the opening for [Job Title] at [Company Name]. With over five years of dedicated industry experience, particularly in a role that significantly contributed to increasing [Company’s Previous Name] market share by 35%, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of skills to your esteemed team.  

At [Previous Job], I spearheaded a project that [describe an accomplishment]. This not only [explain how it benefited the previous employer] but also honed my skills in [specific skill relevant to the new job].  

Your company’s commitment to [reference something about the company’s values or mission] resonates deeply with my professional philosophy. I am eager to contribute to [specific company goal or project] and am confident that my background in [field or skill] will be a valuable asset to your team.  

I look forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you. Thank you for considering my application.  

Sincerely, [Your Name]  

In Conclusion

A cover letter is an invaluable tool in your job search arsenal. By utilizing the strategies discussed and drawing inspiration from various cover letter examples, you can craft a narrative that highlights your skills, experience, and fit for the role. Remember to be genuine, provide context for your accomplishments, and make a case for why you would be a great addition to the team. A well-crafted cover letter not only increases your chances of landing an interview but also moves you one step closer to your dream job.  

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Free cover letter templates

Stand out and get hired faster with our collection of free professional cover letter templates expertly-designed to land you the perfect position.

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General cover letter template.

A general cover letter template is the perfect starting point for writing your next job-winning cover letter. In the example below, you’ll find a cover letter that can be modified to suit just about any position or industry. 

Make sure to update it to include key examples from your own experience and education. Each cover letter is a chance to convince the employer that you’re the best candidate for their role, so make it count!

You’ve developed an excellent resume. What a relief! But you’re not finished with your job application package. It’s time to write a stellar cover letter. That blank page can be scary, but the tips below will help you grab that interview.

Why use our cover letter templates

Resume.io’s cover letter templates offer several advantages when it comes to completing your application and landing your next great position. We take pride in creating fresh and professional designs that stand out and make a positive first impression in today’s competitive job market. 

Here are a few reasons why our free cover letter templates are a cut above the rest:

• Expertly crafted templates: Our team of professional graphic designers is constantly creating and updating our templates to make sure they meet the needs of today’s job seekers. Our collection of templates ranges from minimalist and modern to bold and creative to ensure that we offer the perfect cover letter template for every candidate.
• Approved by recruiters: We work with career HR and recruitment professionals to make sure our cover letter templates meet the strict standards of today’s employers. We follow the latest hiring trends to update and adapt our cover letter templates for the needs of modern job seekers.
• Customize with ease: Not only do we provide expertly designed free cover letter templates, but we also offer an intuitive cover letter builder to help job seekers customize their application letters with ease. Our cover letter builder is easy-to-use and full of helpful features and advice to help you craft a cover letter that’s a cut above the rest.
• AI-powered tools: Even the best writers could use a hand sometimes. That’s why we’ve introduced AI-powered sample sentences that can be inserted directly within the cover letter builder and updated for your own experience. Our powerful spelling and grammar checker also helps to eliminate costly cover letter errors.

Most job applications specify whether they’d like to receive your cover letter as a PDF or Word Docx format. We’ve made it easy to download either option within our cover letter builder.

Choosing the right cover letter template

Every candidate and every position is unique, meaning the same cover letter won’t work for everyone. That’s why we’ve created an extensive collection of cover letter templates with designs ranging from clean and classic to modern and attention-grabbing. 

Within our cover letter builder, you can also easily switch from one template to another, meaning the perfect cover letter design is always within reach. Our free cover letter templates are divided into four categories:

• Simple: Our simple cover letter templates are go-to classics that can work for a wide variety of positions and applicants. These templates are best-suited for students and first-time job seekers, along with applicants working in fields like hospitality, transportation, logistics, and retail. Our simple templates are highly versatile and can serve as a great starting point for any cover letter.
• Modern: If fresh ideas and innovation are the keys to your industry, our modern cover letter templates are the right choice. These designs feature minimalistic lines, clean fonts, and a refreshing balance of white space to text. Our modern cover letter templates are perfect for candidates in IT, marketing, administration, and sales.
• Creative: If your industry or job title calls for a bold approach, look no further than our collection of creative cover letter templates . These designs feature bright colors, striking fonts, and larger-than-life headers to draw attention to your cover letter. Our creative cover letter templates are perfect for candidates in fields like film and television, design, photography, art, architecture, content creation, and any job where your personality should be in the spotlight.
• Professional: Sometimes, tried-and-true is the only option, and that’s where our professional templates come into play. These are classic designs with traditional font choices and the organized sections recruiters expect to see. When in doubt, a professional cover letter template is the way to go, especially in fields like business, medicine, education, engineering, accounting, and finance.

What makes a good cover letter template?

A good cover letter template is a combination of elements that work together to highlight and emphasize a candidate’s experience and qualifications for the role. 

Here are a few factors that make a good cover letter template:

Header: An excellent cover letter template features a header that draws attention to the applicant’s name and contact information. The header may be located at the top or on the side of the page, but it must contain key details like a phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile or portfolio website.

Balance of white space to text: A great cover letter template is easy to read and carefully balances the amount of white space in the text to avoid visual fatigue for the reader. Paragraphs should be divided in a logical way, and margins should not be shrunk to cram in more text.

Font choice: The best cover letters use font styles and sizes that are both legible and appropriate for the industry or job title. A good cover letter builder eliminates the guesswork by automatically choosing the right font and size for the cover letter template.

Color or design elements: While not appropriate for every industry, a touch of color or a dividing line can help create a more attractive page design and make the candidate stand out in a crowded applicant pool. Resume.io’s cover letter templates that feature color give several options so that you can choose the hue that works best for your application.

Different jobs can require different cover letter formats , which is why we’ve made it easy to switch colors, line spacing, or even whole templates directly inside our cover letter builder.

Cover letter template frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is a good format for a cover letter.

A good format for a cover letter is one that catches the hiring manager’s attention with an attractive layout, easy-to-read font, and clear and concise information about the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

What are the three parts of a cover letter?

The four parts of a cover letter are as follows:

• The greeting: The way the hiring manager is addressed at the start of the cover letter.  
• Introduction: The first one or two sentences that introduce the candidate and the role they are applying for.  
• Body: The main paragraphs of the cover letter where the candidate discusses their experience and the reasons why they’re right for the job.  
• Conclusion and sign-off: The final sentences that express interest for the role and include the candidate’s full name as a signature.

How long should a cover letter be?

A good cover letter should be around 300 words or within the range of 250-350 words. This equals roughly three paragraphs. Any shorter and the reader may not fully understand why you are qualified for the role. Any longer, and you risk losing the reader’s attention before they get to the end of your letter.

What are three do’s and three don’ts with a cover letter ?

• Include a header that aligns with the design and information on your resume
• Use numbers and concrete information to show your accomplishments
• Leave a balance of white space to text to increase readability
• Change the document margins to cram in more text or make your cover letter appear longer
• Add a full street address to your cover letter
• Go overboard with images, design elements, or colors

What are two things that should always be in a cover letter?

Two things that should always be in a cover letter are the name of the company and the role you are applying to. Hiring managers often look for candidates for multiple openings at once, so this helps the employer identify who you are and the job you are looking for.

Are cover letters necessary?

Cover letters are one of the best ways to increase your chances of landing your desired position. That’s because they give you the opportunity to expand on key experiences from your resume. 

While not every hiring manager reads cover letters, the ones that do can often use them to determine who is on the shortlist for an interview. We recommend every applicant write a cover letter to show their interest and qualifications for the position.

How to end a cover letter

We recommend always ending your cover letter with a call to action. This sentence expresses your enthusiasm for the position and politely suggests that the hiring manager get in touch with you for an interview. 

You can also leave your name and contact information in this section once again, space permitting. Then, sign off with a phrase like “Sincerely” or “Best regards” and your full name.

How do you address a cover letter without a name?

While using the hiring manager’s name on your cover letter is the best way to establish a personal connection, some companies do not share information about who will be reading your cover letter. In that case, a more general greeting like “Dear (Company Name) Hiring Team” or “Dear (Department Name) Team Lead” can do the trick.

Try our professional Resume builder now!

18 Free Cover Letter Templates That Will Actually Get You Interviews

Simple Cover Letter

Creative Cover Letter

Professional Cover Letter

Jobscan’s cover letter templates are clean and professional . We intentionally avoided using flashy colors and design elements when creating them. Why?

Because most companies nowadays use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes and cover letters. These systems can struggle to read and interpret visually complex documents.

This means your beautifully designed, eye-catching cover letter might remain stuck in an ATS database, never to be seen by an actual human being.

By using one of our simple, easy-to-read templates, you’ll significantly improve the chances that your cover letter will successfully pass through an ATS and into the hands of a hiring manager.

It’s super easy to get started too! Simply click the download button to get your hands on a Word document that you can customize to fit your unique situation.

When you’re done writing your cover letter, run it through Jobscan’s ATS-friendly cover letter checker to get personalized feedback on how to improve your letter and make it even more compelling to employers.

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What is a cover letter?

It’s a letter of introduction that you send along with your resume when you apply for a job.

The key thing to remember about your cover letter is that it shouldn’t simply regurgitate your resume. Instead, it should support it.

Your cover letter can do this by:

• Explaining why you’re excited about the job opportunity.
• Showing how your skills and experience match the job requirements.
• Addressing any gaps in your work history.
• Showing off your personality (but not too much!).

By highlighting your strengths and showing your passion for the role and the company, your cover letter can make a strong case for why you deserve an interview.

Are cover letters necessary in 2023?

While some companies may not require one, a cover letter can still set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of landing an interview.

In one survey , 83 percent of hiring managers said cover letters played an important role in their hiring decision.

In fact, most of the respondents in that survey claimed that a great cover letter might get you an interview even if your resume isn’t strong enough.

So don’t skip the cover letter ! When done correctly, it can be a powerful tool in your job search toolkit.

Why should you use a cover letter template?

Here are the 5 main reasons why you should use a cover letter template .

• It saves you time by creating personalized letters quickly and easily.
• It provides a framework or structure for your cover letter.
• It ensures that all the necessary information is included.
• It makes it easy to customize your cover letters for multiple applications.
• It helps you create a professional and polished cover letter without starting from scratch.

A template helps you streamline the cover letter writing process. This means you can devote more time and energy to other important aspects of your job search, such as networking and researching potential employers.

Generate a personalized cover letter in as little as 5 seconds

Our AI-powered cover letter generator uses GPT-4 technology to create a personalized and ATS-friendly cover letter in one click.

What should you include in your cover letter?

Every cover letter format should include the following information:

Contact information : Your name, address, phone number, and email address should be at the top of the letter.

Greetings : Address the letter to the hiring manager or the person who will be reviewing your application.

Opening paragraph : State the position you’re applying for and explain how you found out about the job. You can also briefly mention why you’re interested in the position and the company.

Body paragraphs : Use one or two paragraphs to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and qualifications that match the job requirements. Provide specific examples of your accomplishments and how they show off your abilities.

Closing paragraph : Repeat your interest in the position and thank the hiring manager for considering your application. You can also include a sentence or two about why you believe you’d be a good fit for the company culture.

Closing : Conclude your cover letter with a professional sign-off, such as “Best regards,” or “Sincerely”.

Do you need a unique cover letter for every job?

Absolutely! Do NOT use the exact same cover letter and simply change the name of the company and the position.

Instead, tailor each cover letter to the position you’re applying for.

You can do this by highlighting how your skills and experience match the specific requirements and responsibilities of the position.

It’s crucial to include the keywords that are in the job posting.

Why? Because your application will most likely go straight into an ATS database. Hiring managers search through this database for suitable job candidates by typing keywords into the search bar.

If your cover letter includes these keywords , it will be seen by the hiring manager. If it doesn’t include these keywords, your cover letter will remain in the database.

Not sure if your cover letter is ATS-friendly? Try running it through Jobscan’s cover letter checker .

This easy-to-use tool analyzes your cover letter and compares it to the job listing. It then identifies the key skills and qualifications that you should focus on in your letter.

How to write a cover letter if you have no work experience

If you don’t have much work experience, writing a strong cover letter can be challenging. But you can still do it!

Here are some tips to help you out:

Hook the reader right away . Introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the position. If possible, mention a specific aspect of the company or role that especially appeals to you.

Highlight your relevant skills and experience . Focus on the skills you’ve gained through school projects, internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities. Be sure to provide specific examples .

Showcase your enthusiasm and willingness to learn . Employers look for candidates who are eager to learn and grow. Use your cover letter to convey your enthusiasm for the role and your willingness to take on new challenges.

Close with a strong call to action . End your cover letter by requesting an interview or expressing your interest in discussing the position further.

Proofread your cover letter carefully and customize it for each position you apply for.

Cover letter do’s and don’ts

• Use a generic greeting, such as “ To Whom It May Concern .”
• Use a one-size-fits-all cover letter for all your job applications.
• Simply repeat your resume in your cover letter.
• Use overly casual or informal language.
• Write a long and rambling cover letter.
• Use jargon or technical terms that the hiring manager may not understand.
• Include irrelevant information or details.
• Send a cover letter with spelling or grammatical errors.
• Address the letter to a specific person or hiring manager, if possible.
• Include your contact information at the top of the document.
• Tailor your letter to the company and position you’re applying for.
• Use keywords from the job description.
• Highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
• Use specific, measurable results to demonstrate your abilities.
• Try to inject some of your personality into the cover letter.
• Proofread your letter carefully for errors.
• Run your cover letter through Jobscan’s cover letter checker .

Q: How long should a cover letter be?

Most cover letters are too long. The ideal length is around 250-400 words. Hiring managers probably won’t read anything longer.

Q: Should I use a PDF or a Word cover letter template?

Either one should be fine. Some older ATS might not accept PDFs, but this is rare these days. Always check the job listing. If it says to submit a Word resume, then do that. Otherwise, a PDF resume works just as well.

Q: Can I email my cover letter instead of sending a cover letter?

Yes, you can email your cover letter instead of sending a physical copy through the mail. In fact, many employers now prefer to receive cover letters and resumes via email or through an online application system.

Explore more cover letter resources

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Cover Letter Writing Guide

The 4 Tips You Need On How To Write A Cover Letter For Job Application

When it comes to the hiring process, every detail counts. It's important to make a good impression on your potential employer from the moment they see you and this includes putting together a cover letter that will get them excited about meeting with you. 

What Makes An Effective Cover Letter?

When writing a good cover letter, there are certain things that you want to look out for: 

1) Be clear from the start 

In order to get your cover letter noticed, you have to make sure that it's very clear what position you're applying for and why. You should not bury this information in a lengthy introduction but instead include it as soon as possible so that they do not overlook it. This first paragraph should also tell them exactly how you found out about their company, or perhaps mention something which caught your eye, such as a recent article written by someone within the organisation. In general, try to keep things interesting and be specific.

2) Keep it short and sweet

Try to keep your cover letter somewhere between one and three paragraphs. This will help you avoid rambling on about things that aren't necessary or relevant, while at the same time keeping them interested enough to continue reading. It's also important not to get too detailed in describing what you did for each job as this can be found within your resume which should stand alone once submitted. You may wish to include a brief overview of the position, but focus more on how you would excel in this role than why they need someone like yourself – unless an employer specifies otherwise!

3) Include your professional work experience

This is the part where you will want to go into a bit more detail regarding the experience that you've had under any previous employers. You should not simply list off your experiences but instead, think about how each job has specifically prepared you for the position in which you're applying. This could include transfers within a company, a customer service role that led to management, working with a team, learning how to resolve conflicts etc. Try to connect what you've done previously to where you're trying to go in the future.

4) Be specific about your skills

When you're writing a cover letter, it's important to focus on the skills that match up with what they are looking for. If they ask for four years of experience within finance and accounting, then be sure to highlight these particular areas. You would also want to emphasise how you've developed certain soft skills such as communication or teamwork which will allow them to see that you can handle stressful situations or work well in a team environment. A hiring manager wants an employee who has both technical abilities and soft skills, but most importantly, someone who's able to fit into their organisation seamlessly – so make sure not to forget to mention this when submitting your application!

What Should You Avoid In Your Cover Letter?

Be careful not to include any spelling mistakes (yes, even one mistake can be overlooked). You should also refrain from using any fancy fonts or colours, as this will only distract them and may not look so good once they print it out. Remember to proofread your letter several times before submitting the final version.

6 Steps To Writing A Cover Letter

1) start with the proper greeting.

The first thing that you will want to do is get their attention with a greeting. You may wish to use either "Dear Hiring Manager" or simply the name of the person to who you will be sending this letter if they have shared it within their job advertisement. If not, then try using something like "To Whom It May Concern".

2) Introduce yourself with an opening paragraph

Begin by stating your name, why you're interested in their company and how you learned about the potential opportunity. This will help them get an idea of what kind of exposure that you've had throughout the industry – which may or may not be relevant depending on who is reading this document. Try including something such as "I am very excited about learning more about [insert role] with [insert company]. Your organisation has been at the forefront in recent news due to [insert reason here]"

3) Get them interested with a compelling hook

You should then move on to tell them about yourself and why you would be excited for this opportunity. The first paragraph of your cover letter is not the time to go into too much detail so keep it short. This idea can be achieved by including a hook or interesting fact which will immediately capture their attention – something that they can relate to, an unusual accomplishment, or perhaps some courses you've attended.

Make sure that each sentence ties back into what makes you qualified for this role at their company. Focus more on explaining how these experiences have shaped who you are today rather than reciting every single task that was involved with your particular job within your cover letter. You do want employers to know what type of work ethic and skillsets that you possess but make sure that you're not coming off as arrogant or conceited – nobody likes to read this!

4) Describing your professional work experience

Once you got the attention of your hiring manager, now is the time to discuss your previous employment history. Include any relevant prior work experience that may be related to what they are currently looking for. It's important to describe how these roles have helped you develop certain skillsets whether it was dealing with difficult people or learning how to manage a team.

5) Promote your skills

Once you've familiarised them with your background and experience, then it's time to dive into why you'd be such an invaluable addition to their team. Do remember to highlight certain soft skills you've developed and honed over the years, like communication and teamwork, which will demonstrate that you're someone who's able to problem-solve effectively within a group of people! A hiring manager wants an employee who has both the hard and soft skills, but most importantly, they'll look for a person who's able to fit into their organisation seamlessly.

Be careful when describing yourself. Don't brag too much but instead focus on highlighting specific skills and accomplishments. You would also want to keep your cover letter short and to the point so that they can get an idea of what you're capable of within a limited amount of time.

6) Thank them

Finally, make sure that you thank them for their time and consideration. Let them know that you would like to get the opportunity of interviewing with your company soon. You can also include a sentence such as "I look forward to hearing from you at [insert desired contact information]"

Ending it on a positive note is always best- this way they will be more likely to reach out if interested in moving forward with an interview since there is no pressure. They may not respond immediately so do not let this discourage you if it takes some time before receiving any feedback or communication after submitting your application. Wait patiently but still follow up once every week or two just in case someone has lost this cover letter. Thanking them again will remind them about who you are, and what you have to offer.

You can also include a sentence such as "I look forward to hearing from you at [insert desired contact information]"

Stand Out From The Crowd

Overall, the key to writing a good cover letter is understanding what makes your resume unique and tailoring it accordingly. Hiring managers don't want to read through dozens of generic letters – they're looking for someone who can add value immediately. You need to show that you have relevant experience or knowledge that will help them with their current needs while also detailing how this position aligns with your career goals.

Your cover letter should be no more than one page long so make sure not to include anything extraneous in order to avoid coming off as unfocused or scattered. There are many ways for you to stand out from the crowd but these four tips will allow you to start thinking about where you might fit at a company like theirs. Now all that's left is filling out an application and sending over your resume.

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Résumés and cover letters traditionally fit together like hands in gloves, and seasoned job seekers are accustomed to starting their application process with both.

As hiring practices grow more automated, however, cover letters are becoming less relevant, said Larry Sheftel, vice president of human resources at Aprio, a CPA-led professional services firm based in Atlanta. His firm hires about 200 employees annually, and he estimates thousands of résumés pass through his firm's applicant tracking system each year.

"With the volume of job applications we receive, we don't have time to scour all the cover letters, and typically go straight to the résumé," he said.

But don't count cover letters out entirely, he warned. Most employers still require them alongside résumés, especially at smaller firms where a senior partner or manager is responsible for hiring and recruiting and may take a hands-on approach. A well-written cover letter can be the difference between winning or losing a job opportunity.

Here are five tips for getting the most from your cover letter.

Keep it brief. A three-paragraph cover letter is the ideal length, said Rita Keller, a CPA firm consultant based in Beavercreek, Ohio. "The hiring manager is really interested in your qualifications, and you want them to get to your résumé right away, so keep your cover letter relatively short," she said. She described the ideal elements of a powerful and concise letter. The first paragraph should be your introduction, stating the purpose for submitting your résumé and the job you are applying for. The second paragraph should include some details you have learned about the firm through your research and the reasons you are interested in working there, and the third paragraph should state why you think you are the most qualified for the job. It is also a good idea to include a call to action, such as requesting an interview.

Use keywords. Applicant tracking systems are search engines programmed to seek out specific keywords or phrases, and it is important that both your résumé and cover letter are optimized for this technology, Keller said. Even at firms that don't use automated systems, managers may skim résumés and cover letters looking for words specific to the job they are trying to fill. A good place to find keywords is in the description of the job you are seeking. "If you can pull some descriptive words from a job posting stating the type of candidate your targeted firm is seeking, you will be mirroring back exactly what they are looking for," Keller said.

Show you care about the firm. Tailor your cover letter with direct references to the firm to which you are applying, and be sure to use the firm's correct name, Sheftel said. Misspelling the name of the firm suggests sloppiness and a lack of attention to detail. "Make yourself stand out by showing you know something about the firm and point out key aspects of its website," Sheftel said. It's also a good idea to share how you found out about the firm and describe why you are interested in working there, he added. Sheftel also advised against using a generic salutation. "If you can address your cover letter to the actual hiring manager or recruiter, that carries a lot of weight," he said. Many firm websites have employee directories, and LinkedIn can be a good resource too, he added.

Follow rules of good writing. Use correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar, Keller advised. "Accounting professionals focus on accuracy, and the worst thing you can do is submit a cover letter filled with mistakes," she said. Even if you are qualified for the job, a poorly written cover letter will be a negative. Call on a friend or colleague to proofread your document, use online services such as Grammarly and SpellCheck .net, or consult an online dictionary to help you construct sentences correctly.  

Treat your letter as a supporting document. Make sure your résumé is complete, and don't save important details for your cover letter, because hiring managers may not read it, said Sheftel. He added that Aprio's applicant tracking system scours résumés for specific details that show job applicants have the specific type of experience the firm needs. However, he added, there are times when a good cover letter makes a difference, such as instances when several candidates demonstrate an equal level of experience. "That's when a well-written, professional cover letter could be key to getting the job," Sheftel said.

Visit the Global Career Hub from AICPA & CIMA for help with finding a job or recruiting.

— Teri Saylor is a freelance writer based in North Carolina. To comment on this article or to suggest an idea for another article, contact Chris Baysden, a JofA associate director at [email protected] .

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Articles & Advice > Internships and Careers > Blog

How to Perfect the 5 Sections of a Cover Letter

Hiring managers expect your cover letter structure to comprise five basic parts. Here's how to write each section for job application success.

by LiveCareer

Last Updated: May 17, 2024

Originally Posted: Apr 18, 2019

Not including a cover letter with an application is one of the biggest mistakes students make when trying to get a job. As a soon-to-be graduate with little or no work experience, you can’t rely on your résumé alone. You need to craft a strong accompanying letter to sell yourself, and you need to get all its components right. While there may be room for more creativity in non-traditional industries, for the most part, recruiters expect cover letters to follow a particular format. If you adhere to the anticipated framework, you’ll make it easier for them to digest your submission. The best way to get a feel for how to write this important document is to look at lots of cover letter examples. You should also follow the guidelines below for cover letter structure success.

1. The greeting

If you remember only one thing when it comes to your opening address , let it be this: personalization. “To Whom It May Concern” just isn’t going to cut it; you need to use a full name, inserted into a formal salutation (Dear Mr./Ms. [First Name, Last Name]). If you don’t know who the hiring manager is, do some online digging. If (and only if) that turns up nothing, make use of a specific job title. Something like “Dear Group Human Resources Manager” could work. The point is to demonstrate that you’re willing to go the extra mile and do some research because you’re that interested in the position.

Related:  7 Must-Know Tips for Writing a Killer Cover Letter

2. The opening paragraph

The opening statement is the most important part of your cover letter structure, and the key to success is disruption—you want to surprise, amuse, and captivate from the first word while still remaining professional. So don’t start with something predictable like “My name is X and I’m writing to apply for the position of Y.” The most important thing to communicate in your first paragraph is why you’re so interested in this particular job at this particular company. Express your enthusiasm in an authentic, unexpected way by starting with a personal story that sheds light on how you came to love your field of work or how you first discovered the organization. Not only will a short tale be far more interesting than a generic introduction, but it’ll also encourage hiring managers to see you as a human being and not just another applicant. If you know someone at the organization—or better yet, if someone high up suggested that you apply for the position—you should definitely include that person’s name in your letter’s opening paragraph too.

3. The body paragraph(s)

The body is the meat of your cover letter—the part that’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you were made for this job. If you look at good cover letter examples, you’ll see it’s best to start with a hook that (a) shows you understand what the company needs and (b) emphasizes that you have the competencies, qualifications, and know-how necessary to meet those needs. If you don’t have a lot of work experience, focus on your transferable skills —those you’ve acquired through college projects and internships, for example—and include concrete examples of how you’ve applied them in the past to achieve results. If possible, evidence should be expressed in numbers and metrics, and skills and academic achievements should be described using language from the job ad so your letter is flagged if scanned by an applicant tracking system.

Two things you should never do when writing the body of your cover letter? Repeat your résumé or focus too much on yourself. Instead of the former, select two or three key points from your background and expand on them, making specific links to the position’s requirements. Regarding the latter, keep the emphasis on how you can help the company achieve its goals, and avoid talking too much about what you hope to gain.

Related: Entry-Level Résumé Mistakes to Avoid as a New Grad

4. The final paragraph

Don’t ruin a great cover letter with a tepid ending. Leave a lasting impression and close on a high by reiterating your interest in the position and outlining what you’d aim to achieve in your first few weeks in the position   if you’re selected. If there might be cause for concern (for instance, if you’re currently not based in the city but plan to relocate), address this here, but don’t dwell on it. Remember to thank the hiring manager for considering you—he or she didn’t have to read your whole letter, after all. Also be sure to balance confidence with courtesy; that is, don’t threaten the reader in any way or be overly presumptuous. Simply say that you’d be grateful for the opportunity to discuss your fit for the role further, and encourage the hiring manager to contact you if they’d like to set up an interview or learn more about you.

5. The closing remark

The tone of your sign-off should be consistent with the rest of your cover letter—courteous and professional, but not so formal that it feels contrived. “Yours faithfully” is probably too stuffy, but “Sincerely,” “Warm regards,” “Best wishes,” or even just “Regards,” followed by your full name, are all appropriate. If you’re posting your application materials, include your signature, but this isn’t necessary if you’re submitting your cover letter digitally. 

Related:  An Easy 7-Step Guide to Finding a Job After College

The cover letter is an elusive task when it comes to applying for jobs. You need to strike the right tone and balance to impress your audience: the hiring manager. Using this advice can help you perfect the art of writing your cover letter to show and say exactly what you want it to.  And with a little bit of practice, you’re sure to land an amazing job for a career where you can thrive.

Find more advice crafting your best application to land the job in our Internships and Careers section.

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About LiveCareer

Since 2005, LiveCareer’s team of career coaches, certified résumé writers, and savvy technologists have been developing career tools that have helped over 10 million users build stronger résumés, write persuasive cover letters, and develop better interview skills. Land the job you want faster using our free  résumé templates  and  résumé examples , writing guides, and an easy-to-use résumé builder.

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Job Applications » Job Applications Blog » How to Write a Good Cover Letter for an Entry level Job

How to Write a Good Cover Letter for an Entry level Job

Good and bad cover letters: whats the difference.

Just as when you meet someone for the first time, you want to make a good first impression, so it is with a cover letter. A cover letter is your introduction to a prospective employer, a chance for you to sell yourself. A good cover letter will make a good impression on that employer, and possibly get you an interview, if not get you hired, for the job that you want. Of course, the opposite is true if you have a cover letter that is bad. A bad cover letter is an unfortunate waste of time for everyone concerned.

Formatting A good cover letter will be formatted properly, using a business block style. It should have the date on it, your name and return address, and be addressed to the company you are applying to work at. Whenever possible, use the name and title of the person who does the hiring for the company, and use their name in the salutation. Salutations like, To Whom It May Concern or Dear Sir or Madam should be avoided.

Your cover letter should be typed using traditional or contemporary fonts like, Times New Roman or Arial. The font should not be more than 10 to 12 points. These fonts and font sizes are professional looking and easy to read. You should make sure that your spelling and grammar are correct, and that the tone of the letter is a positive one. A good cover letter should be no longer than one page in length, and printed on white bond paper. Nothing will get your cover letter ignored more than one that has a negative tone, that does not look or sound professional, and that is riddled with misspelling, bad grammar and slang terms. Also, a cover letter that is lengthy, and printed on colored paper will not make a good impression.

Relevance It is not good to send a cover letter that has little or no substance to it. It must contain concise details pertinent to the job that you are applying for. You should not send a cover letter that only states that your resume is enclosed. A good cover letter should contain coherent information organized into several paragraphs. It should start out by referring to the position that you are applying for, and how you came to know that the position was available. The employer will be interested in why you would like to work for the company, in the position that you are applying for, and he will be impressed when he reads your cover letter giving him some details about the business and position. This shows that you have done your research about the company, and that you are truly interested in the job.

Skill Sets In addition, a good cover letter will highlight your skill set. Take some the skills that you have listed on your resume that match up with the skills that the employer is looking for, and explain how the qualifications that you have can benefit the company and/or the department. It would also be advantageous for your cover letter to list a few of the good qualities you may have; for example, you might mention things like you are punctual, customer service oriented, or that you have a positive attitude. If your cover letter does not catch the eye of its reader by showing the skills or qualities that an employer is looking for, your resume may never be looked at.

Interview In the last paragraph of a good cover letter you will want to express that you are looking forward to an interview, and indicate that you will call to follow-up in a specific amount of time. This should be done in a way that does not sound too pushy. You should also conclude your letter thanking the prospective employer for their time and consideration. Use a professional and proper closing such as, Sincerely, to end your letter. It would not be looked upon with favor to use a closing like, hope to hear from you soon, best wishes or be good.

Still Necessary? The difference between a good and bad cover letter can mean getting an interview for the position you are applying for, or finding yourself applying for other positions.

You might wonder if a cover letter is necessary when you submit a resume. Unless otherwise instructed, a cover letter should accompany every resume, as a cover letter compels your reader to review your resume.

Your resume presents factual information about your qualifications, experience, and educational credentials, which present you as a good match for a position based on the content in a job posting. It is common for job seekers to use one resume for several employment contacts. While this is a customary practice for job postings with similar job responsibilities, a cover letter lets you personalize your resume package for a specific job opportunity.

You no doubt have value-added skills that are above and beyond those listed as the fundamental job requirements. These skills can distinguish you from other candidates. A cover letter lets you present this information and add value to your marketability.

In your resume package, your cover letter is an informative and even fun way to demonstrate that you can communicate in a clear and concise fashion. You do this with the words you use, the tone of the letter, and the visual presentation.

Although there are no set rules to creating cover letters, the following are some guidelines:

Be brief. Cover letters are not essays. Use one page to communicate who you are, what you can do for your potential employer, and why you are the best candidate for the position.

Be professional, yet personal. Avoid using the same tone and language you use in your resume. Address your reader as if you were speaking to him or her in person. Your cover letter should add to whatever is in your resume, not repeat it.

Tell who you are. Open the letter with a clear statement of who you are and what you do. Don’t make your reader search for that information in the body of the letter or worse, have to interpret the content of the letter to figure it out.

Maintain consistency. Use the same heading format on all documents within your resume package (resume, cover letter, references, follow-up letters, thank you letters).

Highlight your value-added skills. Spotlight your skills that do not appear in your resume such as your work ethics, teamwork ability, and skills that are not listed as requirements for the job but are useful to the organization.

Explain why you want to work for the company. Do you like their product or service, their financial standing, their position in the industry, or their direction for the future? Companies like to know that you have interest in their organization, not that you simply need a new job.

Proof, proof, proof. Make sure that your letter is clear, concise, and error free. Make a checklist that addresses grammar, punctuation, and words that are spelled correctly but are out of context (form instead of from, you instead of your, etc.). Use this checklist for your own proofreading, and have someone else read your letter as well, if possible.

A cover letter can make the difference between getting an interview and getting passed over. Use a cover letter to help boost your chances of getting the job offer.

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Why a Good Cover Letter Is Critical to Your HR Job Search

​You've put in a lot of work to get your resume just right. Now, you're looking at job postings, ready to hit "submit," when you come across a position requiring a cover letter. Rather than write one, you could ignore this job, especially since you've found other job ads that explicitly say, "No cover letter!" What should you do?

Sit down and write a cover letter. That's because having a cover letter is absolutely critical to supplementing your HR resume . Let me give you three reasons why:

1. It shows extra effort.  

Employers want someone who is going to go the extra mile. When you take the time to craft a cover letter that is exceptionally tailored to the position you are interested in, hiring managers will take notice.

Take the time to write a cover letter because others will not. Just knowing that you might be 1 of 50 candidates who actually submits a cover letter puts you ahead of the competition.

2. You are allowed to get personal.  

I like to think of creating resumes, cover letters and LinkedIn profiles as being like wearing a new suit. Your resume is the suit jacket—you are buttoned-up and mean business. The cover letter is when you have taken off your suit jacket, but your tie is still firmly knotted and your sleeves are down: a bit more approachable, but with an air of respectability. LinkedIn profiles are when you've loosened your tie and rolled up your sleeves. You can play a little in this state and have an aura of "letting loose" without going overboard.

A cover letter is the perfect place to inject some of your personality so the hiring staff can get a feel for who you are, rather than just what you can do. It's a good in-between from the resume to your LinkedIn profile.

3. It shows enthusiasm.  

By writing a cover letter, you are sailing ahead of the competition. Your resume has shown the recruiter that there's an actual person interested in the opportunity. With a cover letter, you're taking the time to show that you have researched the organization you want to work for and are excited about this opportunity.

An effective cover letter will be tailored to the position you want and can include information that fills in the gaps for what hiring managers are looking for. For example, maybe the job description says one of the responsibilities will be to manage the staffing process. You could add a section to explain how you've used your creativity in recruiting, hiring and retaining staff members who have shown longevity with a company. Or maybe you've noticed that the business you're applying to values its ecological footprint, a topic you are passionate about. Include that in your cover letter.

Assuming you agree that you need to write a cover letter, here is guidance that will help you create a document that will land you interviews:

Use the same header. 

However you formatted your name and contact information on your resume, you'll want to do it the same on your cover letter. That keeps it at the forefront of the hiring manager's mind.

For example:

MARY SOUTHERN Austin, Texas | 641.351.9492 | mary@resumeassassin.com | LinkedIn: mary-southern

Then, format the rest of your letter in a formal letter style with date, name of person, name of company and so on right-aligned.

It's also smart to use the hiring person's name when possible. If you do a little digging on LinkedIn or the company website, you may find that name so you can address your cover letter specifically to them. (Hint: It's also easier to write a letter to an actual person, so whether you have a name or not, remember a person is going to read your letter.) In the event you can't find a name, then simply address your cover letter to "Hiring Manager." 

Short and sweet is key. 

While resumes often run two or more pages, a cover letter needs to stay at one page. In fact, the optimal letter is between 250 and 400 words. That doesn't give you a lot of room, so you will have to be choosey on what you include and leave out.

Make sure to carefully read the employer's submission guidelines. If they want a PDF, be sure to send it as such. Be on the lookout for other specifics in the job posting such as format, length, margins and content so that you can craft your cover letter to their requirements. It's another way to show you are invested in them and want the job.

Also, NEVER submit your cover letter (or resume) without proofreading it. A few tricks that can help you catch errors are:

• Read your documents out loud.
• Change the font to Comic Sans (remember to change it back).
• Go line by line, starting at the bottom and working your way to the top. 

Each of these suggestions tricks you into seeing the words differently so your brain will not fill in blanks and fixes automatically.

One other tactic is to use lots of action verbs. For example, instead of writing "I was responsible for payroll," change it to read, "I spearheaded a group of eight exceptional team members in the payroll department."

It is fine to dread writing a cover letter. They are not easy to write well, plus you may have thought that creating a great resume was all that's really needed. But remember that unlike your resume, your cover letter definitely will be read by another human being, not an applicant tracking system. Given that, it can be the deciding factor between you and another candidate.  

Mary Southern is the founder of Resume Assassin in Austin, Texas, and offers more than 12 years of experience in resume writing, human resources, and career and academic advising. She has helped thousands of professionals across a variety of industries break into a wide range of leading companies. Learn more at  www.resumeassassin.com  and connect with Mary at  www.linkedin.com/in/mary-southern .

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