how to write a cover letter for a engineering job

Engineering Cover Letter Example (W/ Templates & Tips for 2024)

The days you solved puzzles and tinkered with gadgets are long gone.

You've always had a knack for engineering, and now you’re turning your passion into a career.

But as you’re applying for your next gig, you’re having trouble writing your engineering cover letter.

No worries. 

Whether you’re an entry-level engineer who doesn’t know the basics of writing cover letters or a seasoned professional who’s not good at putting their professional experience into words, we’ve got your back. 

In this article, we're going to guide you through the process of creating a perfect engineering cover letter, one step at a time.

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

• Professional Engineering Cover Letter Example
• 5 Simple Steps to Craft an Impressive Engineering Cover Letter
• 3 Essential Engineering Cover Letter Tips 

Let’s dive in!

Engineering Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Engineering Cover Letter

You've seen what a great cover letter looks like, and now it's time to create your own . 

It's as simple as the following steps, starting with: 

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Start your engineer cover letter with your contact information, just like you would on your resume . Here's what you should include:

• Full Name: Place your complete name at the top of the page.
• Job Title: List the exact job title required by the specific engineering position you're applying for (e.g. “Electrical Engineer”). Clarity here helps streamline the hiring process.
• Email Address: Opt for a professional and straightforward email address, typically a combination of your first and last name.
• Phone Number: Ensure your phone number is accurate, including the dialing code if applying for positions abroad.
• Location: Mention your city and state or country. If you're open to remote work or relocating, make that clear on your engineering resume.
• Relevant Links (optional): Include any pertinent websites or social media profiles, such as LinkedIn.

Next, it's time to provide the hiring manager's information:

• Company Name: Specify the company you're applying to.
• Hiring Manager's Name: Whenever possible, identify the hiring manager for the department you're interested in. Research the job ad, the company's website, or LinkedIn for this information.
• Hiring Manager's Title: If you find that the hiring manager for this specific job ad holds a department head role, use that title instead of just "Hiring Manager."
• Location: Include the city and state or country, particularly for globally operating companies. You can also add the company's street address for precision.
• Email Address (optional): If available, include the hiring manager's email address.
• Date of Writing (optional): Consider adding the date you composed your cover letter for that extra touch of professionalism.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've included all the necessary contact information in your engineer cover letter, it's crucial to address it to the right person. 

For starters, avoid the generic and dated "To Whom It May Concern."

Giving some thought to how you address the cover letter can make a positive impression on the hiring manager. Here's how to do it:

Start by doing some research. Check the job posting, the company's website, or their LinkedIn profiles to identify the hiring manager for the department you're interested in. This way, you can find their name and email address.

Next, address them formally. Consider using "Ms." or "Mr." followed by their last name. If you're unsure about their gender or marital status, you can simply use their full name. For example:

• Dear Mr. Rodriguez,
• Dear Taylor Anderson,

In cases where you can't find specific information about the hiring manager or the head of the engineering department, you can address your letter to the department or the company in general:

• Dear Engineering Department,
• Dear Engineering Hiring Team,
• Dear Human Resources Recruitment Team,
• Dear Head of Engineering Services,

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers typically spend around seven seconds reviewing a candidate's application before deciding whether to continue reading it. This means your opening paragraph is your chance to grab the hiring manager’s attention and get them to read your cover letter.

Begin by introducing yourself and expressing your genuine interest in the role. Demonstrating your passion for the engineering field or the specific job can capture the hiring manager's attention.

Researching the company is also essential. The more you learn about the employer, the better you can talk about how you’d fit with the company culture. This conveys to the hiring manager that your application is not random; you're genuinely enthusiastic about this particular position.

Depending on your experience level, you can also start your cover letter by highlighting a significant achievement or showcasing the skills that make you an ideal fit for the role. 

However, keep this paragraph concise to ignite the hiring manager's curiosity and encourage them to explore the details in your cover letter further.

Check out our other cover letter examples to write an inspired opening paragraph. 

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

You’re meant to use the body of your cover letter to talk in detail about why you are the perfect candidate for the position. 

The key here is to avoid rehashing your engineering resume . This is where you can talk in more detail about skills and achievements you didn’t have space for on your resume. 

Your mission is to persuade the hiring manager that you are the standout choice among a sea of applicants. To achieve this, you can highlight a couple of your most notable engineering achievements, and elaborate on the skills that helped you and the positive results your work has had.

Customizing your cover letter to align with the job posting is essential. Spotlight the specific skills the company is seeking and articulate how you can make valuable contributions to their team. For instance, if you're aiming for a position in a tech-focused engineering firm, emphasize your tech-related proficiencies rather than unrelated experiences.

Demonstrating your familiarity with the company, its business model, or its industry can be a tremendous asset. If you possess knowledge of the company's products or services, ensure it's mentioned in your cover letter to convey your alignment with their mission and corporate culture.

To keep this important cover letter part perfect, avoid these common cover letter mistakes at all costs. 

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Concluding your cover letter professionally is just as important as starting on the right note.

Your goal is to leave a positive, lasting impression on the hiring manager and reinforce their confidence in your suitability for the engineering role.

In the conclusion, confidently reiterate why you are an excellent fit for the engineer position or highlight the skills that you believe distinguish you from other applicants.

Then, you can optionally include a call to action. Encouraging the hiring manager to take the next step, such as arranging a conversation to explore your application further, can enhance your chances of securing an interview.

Last but not least, conclude with a signature line. Choose something personal but still professional, followed by your full name. Here's an example:

Please don’t hesitate to contact me using the provided email or phone number to schedule a discussion. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to delve deeper into my application at your earliest convenience.

Best wishes,

If you feel that "Best wishes" is overused, consider these alternative sign-off options:

• Kind regards,
• Respectfully yours,
• Thank you for your consideration,

Simply choose the sign-off that aligns with your style and the tone of your engineering cover letter.

3 Essential Engineering Cover Letter Tips

You've covered the fundamentals, and now it's time to elevate your engineering cover letter with some cover letter tips . 

Here are our top three: 

#1. Match Your Resume

If you're truly committed to landing the gig, your job application needs to look as good as it reads.

Make certain that the formatting and layout of your engineering cover letter align seamlessly with your resume. This will not only show off your sense of professionalism but also highlight your attention to detail. 

Ensure that your text and contact information are neatly arranged on the page, maintain uniform font styles and sizes, and set the right margins and line spacing to keep your cover letter on a single page.

This can set you apart from other candidates and underscore your genuine dedication to the position.

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

As an engineer, you likely have better things to do than create a matching cover letter and resume.

There’s a solution to this.  

Try out our free resume templates to create the perfect engineering resume.

Then, pick a cover letter template that matches it visually to save time and effort.

Our templates are created in collaboration with hiring managers around the world, which means they hit industry standards right on the mark. You save time and get a matching cover letter for your resume that looks absolutely professional. Sweet deal, isn’t it?

#2. Emphasize Your Achievements

Highlighting your achievements in your engineering cover letter is a smart move. 

It's not just about listing them, though; it's about showing how they make you the ideal candidate for the job. This helps hiring managers see the value you can bring to their team. 

So, be sure to integrate your achievements seamlessly into your cover letter, connecting them to the role you're pursuing. This way, you'll leave a lasting impression of your capabilities.

#3. Keep It Relevant

In your engineering cover letter, being concise is key. 

It's not about overwhelming the hiring manager with lengthy paragraphs; it's about providing relevant information efficiently. Employers appreciate cover letters that get to the point and directly address the qualifications and skills that make you a great fit for the job. 

So, keep it relevant, and you'll make a strong and lasting impression.

Key Takeaways

Here you go!

Now, you're all set to craft the ideal engineering cover letter and secure that role you've been eyeing.

For clarity, let's revisit the key takeaways:

• Ensuring your engineering cover letter aligns with your resume provides a cohesive, professional appearance. Consider using a resume and cover letter builder for the seamless creation of both documents.
• Organize your cover letter with a captivating opening, followed by detailed elaboration. Utilize the main section to emphasize your engineering skills, past projects, and why you're the perfect fit for the role.
• Review the job listing for specific engineering skills and relevant keywords. By aligning with the employer's expectations, you'll stand out and make a lasting impression.
• Never underestimate the importance of proofreading. A small oversight might jeopardize your chance, so double-check for errors before submission.

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3 Engineering Cover Letter Examples Built for 2024 

• Engineering Cover Letter
• Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter
• Civil Engineering Cover Letter
• Write Your Engineering Cover Letter

As an engineer, your role holds immense significance in shaping the world around us. You’re the problem solver, the innovator, and the driving force behind complex projects. From designing sustainable infrastructure to optimizing machinery and electrical systems, your skills are diverse and impactful.

But when it comes to writing a cover letter to complement your engineering resume , it’s a different ball game, and it can definitely feel a bit daunting. We understand that articulating your engineering prowess on paper can be a challenge.

That’s why we’re here to guide you through the process. Just follow our engineer cover letter examples and tips to simplify this unique writing task and fast forward to landing your dream job in engineering.

Engineering Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your engineering cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Dallas, TX 75001 (123) 456-7890

October 01, 2023

Isabella Hill Texas Instruments 123 Fictional Lane Dallas, TX 75001

Dear Ms. Hill:

I have always revered Texas Instruments’ dedication to innovation and forward-thinking, so I am thrilled at the chance to contribute to your advancement in electrical engineering. With a dedication that resonates with your focus on pushing the boundaries of electronics, I bring five years of relevant experience that can help accelerate the development of your products, identify engineering efficiencies, and maintain your reputation for excellence as your electrical engineer.

At Intellic Integration, my contribution was instrumental in designing and deploying 32+ distinct analog circuit projects. By employing software tools like LTspice and KiCad, I was able to aid in the reduction of design turnaround time by 27% while ensuring a defect rate of less than 4%. In collaboration with teams, I also successfully reduced the cost of raw materials by 18% by presenting an alternative vendor offering similar quality products.

While working at NXP Semiconductors, I led a team conducting comprehensive power flow studies using ETAP for 13 industrial clients. This project not only resulted in a 14% reduction in network losses but also increased network availability by 19%, thereby ensuring higher client satisfaction and retention.

My experience also includes complex problem-solving in swift turnaround settings. One notable instance was at Baker Hughes, where I designed and implemented an emergency power supply circuit within 17 hours, helping the firm avert a projected loss of $67,123 due to power outages. My Professional Engineer (PE) license further underscores my commitment to the highest technical and ethical standards.

Unwavering in my commitment to cultivating an environment of trust, respect, and collaboration, it would be an honor to bring my talent to a company as reputable as Texas Instruments. I am prepared to provide further details about my experience at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your consideration.

Matias Castro

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Professional Engineer (PE) License

Why this cover letter works

• Also, see how Matias enthusiastically kicks off this engineering cover letter. In addition, one or two soft skills should suffice (cue communication skills, project management, and problem-solving).

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifiting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your mechanical engineering cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Chicago, IL 60007 (123) 456-7890

James Lewis United Airlines 123 Fictional Lane Chicago, IL 60007

Dear Mr. Lewis:

Studying the combustion of jet engines while pursuing my mechanical engineering degree left an indelible impression on me. The intricate fusion of precision, power, and excellence not only fascinated me but also pushed me to make it a part of my career journey. Carrying this passion forward, I have been fortunate to fuse my knowledge with my profession over the past six years. Emulating a similar pattern towards success and precision, I am eager to embark on a new adventure with United Airlines as your next mechanical engineer.

At Invernergy, I utilized SOLIDWORKS and ANSYS for designing and simulating mechanical systems. Due to my efforts, there was a decrease in the production defect rate by 17%, and I managed to extend the product lifecycle by 13%, amplifying cost savings.

Together with the team at James Hardie, we tapped MATLAB for several predictive maintenance assignments. Utilizing predictive models, we were able to flag the signs of imminent equipment failure, slashing the failure probability by 14% and achieving a 9% increase in production volume.

At Arrow Gear, my skills in ANSYS facilitated finite element analysis, leading to a substantial 23% decrease in material stress concentration points in our product line. This directly led to a spike in the product safety and compliance rating by 29%. I look forward to the opportunity to bring my unique set of skills and the spirit of perseverance to United Airlines. Thank you for considering my application.

• Use real numbers to underpin impacts generated from industry-specific skills in previous roles (cue 13% improvement in product lifecycle). Proficiency in pertinent software like MATLAB, ANYSYS, and SOLIDWORKS is a welcome bonus.

Civil Engineering Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your civil engineering cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Detroit, MI 48127 (123) 456-7890

Noah Moore Wade Trim 123 Fictional Lane Detroit, MI 48127

Dear Mr. Moore,

Since my tender age, I have been utterly fascinated by the intriguing bond between civil engineering and societal development. Starkly etched in my memory is the 2013 Detroit flooding, a catastrophic event that could have decimated my family were it not for the efforts of the resilient city engineers and planners. It served as my pivotal moment, sparking a burning desire to become a civil engineer who didn’t just build structures but shaped lives and society. Now, I am thrilled to bring my expertise in SAP2000, Geotechnical Engineering, and more to Wade Trim as a civil engineer.

During my tenure with Smith Group, harnessing the power of SAP2000, I proposed ground-breaking enhancements to existing structures, which ushered in an unprecedented 19% surge in load-bearing capacity. That was instrumental in bolstering public safety and triggering significant urban developments.

Later, in my role at Giffels Webster, I played a crucial part in a monumental urban revitalization project, applying my expertise in soil mechanics, slope stability, and foundations. Seeing our landslide risk plummet by a spectacular 27% was a testament to our hard work, ensuring the structural safety of the new community development.

In my stint with the flood control task force at WSP, I capitalized on HEC-RAS to model and decipher the complex dynamics of floodplain scenarios. After relentless ideation, I spotted and redesigned critical bottlenecks in the waterways. This strategic move led to a remarkable 16% dip in flooding risks for susceptible zones in the Detroit metropolitan region.

Wade Trim stands as a beacon of engineering brilliance and I look forward to discussing how my civil engineering savvy can catalyze your continual growth and, in return, enrich urban landscapes and escalate societal quality of life. Thank you.

Mikhail Ivanov

• But again, you must prove your competence. Enter detailed and snappy highlights of your experiences showcasing the use of industry-specific skills like Geotechnical engineering and HEC-RAS and complemented with tangible results.

Related cover letter examples

• Engineering resume
• Computer science
• Web developer

How to Write a Persuasive Engineering Cover Letter

Precision and attention to detail are second nature to you, and writing a great cover letter is already well within your skill set—because you know what makes a good engineer. To truly showcase this expertise and stand out to each potential employer, it’s crucial to tailor your cover letter to the specific job description . 

For instance, if the role emphasizes management skills, highlight your experience in successfully overseeing complex engineering projects. Doing this demonstrates that you’ve read the job requirements and understand how your qualifications align with the employer’s needs. 

Getting the greeting right

To kick off your engineer cover letter with a bang, start by addressing the recipient by name. You can find this information by scouring the company’s website and LinkedIn profile, or even making a quick phone call. If you absolutely can’t find a name, a polite “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company] Team” will still do the trick.

Following the greeting, your opening paragraph should be a captivating hook. This is your opportunity to connect with the company and demonstrate why you’re tailor-made for the role. 

Mention your passion for tackling complex engineering challenges or your admiration for the company’s groundbreaking projects. Personalize this for each job application; for example, if the role emphasizes designing and reading blueprints, mention your confidence in that regard.

Now, let’s steer clear of some common pitfalls. This example falls flat because it lacks enthusiasm, doesn’t address why you’re a great fit, and fails to make any connection with the employer or its specific needs. 

A bit bland…

I saw your job listing for an engineer online. I noticed you haven’t gotten many responses, so I hope you can hire me.

This next example, on the other hand, is positively bursting with enthusiasm. The applicant sounds like they’re applying for their ultimate dream job, and that’s exactly the impression you want to give.

Enthusiastic and exciting!

Crafting compelling body paragraphs

In the body paragraphs of your cover letter, it’s time to build on the strong foundation you’ve laid. For engineers, this is your opportunity to discuss specific projects you’ve worked on, your technical expertise, and the impact you’ve made. 

Whether it’s managing complex infrastructure projects, optimizing machinery for efficiency, or solving intricate electrical system challenges, focus on the engineering tasks that make you stand out. 

Numbers are your friends here. Share metrics that illustrate your contributions—whether it’s the number of successful projects you’ve completed, the percentage increase in productivity you achieved, or how your innovative solutions reduced costs or improved safety.

Your expertise will shine!

Closing and signing off your cover letter with style

In the closing paragraph of your engineer cover letter, your goal is to leave a lasting impression by summarizing how your values, qualifications, and job skills align perfectly with the company.

Begin by reiterating your excitement about the opportunity. Demonstrate that you’ve done your research by mentioning something specific about the company or role that resonates with you. For example, if applying to a company known for innovative sustainability projects, express your passion for environmental responsibility.

Lastly, never forget to express gratitude for the consideration and conclude with a professional signoff like “Sincerely, [Your Name].”

This closing line is a no-go because it introduces a potential obstacle and is unprofessional for a cover letter. Always leave such discussions for later stages of the hiring process! 

Not so fast!

I’m looking forward to working with you. Just so you know, I play golf every Friday so I need to leave by 2 pm on that day. Thanks!

The next example is far more on point. Any company will choose the passionate applicant over everyone else because it gives the impression that you’ll go above and beyond. 

In modern cover letter writing, including addresses is largely unnecessary. Instead, focus on the letter’s content, which should emphasize your job skills in engineering and the field you specialize in the most, such as civil engineering.

Customize your cover letter for each job application by mentioning specific aspects of the company that resonate with you. For example, if the company is known for introducing innovative solutions in the medical field, emphasize your excitement at contributing your engineering expertise to such an important mission.

Tailor the tone to match the company culture and job description . If the company has a formal culture, keep your language professional. If it’s more relaxed, you can be slightly more informal, but always maintain a respectful and positive tone. Don’t be afraid to use technical engineering jargon to show your knowledge.

Engineering Cover Letter Example

Create the perfect first impression for an Engineering job by getting your cover letter in gear. Take a look over our example Engineering cover letter below to find out how you can optimize your application to perfection.

Resume and Cover Letter Experts

Engineering Cover Letter

You’ve found it. A job opening that is looking for an engineer. It comes with great benefits, hours, the whole package.

You’ve used a  resume template  to write your resume, so you know your job application is on point so far.

There is just one problem,  the job posting asks for a cover letter  along with the rest of your application.

In theory, it doesn’t take too long to create an engineering cover letter, but you want to  do it the right way , so let’s not rush it.

If you write a run-of-the-mill cover letter, it will end up in the rejection pile before the hiring manager even gets halfway through reading it. You’ll want to ensure your cover letter stands out and  grabs the employer’s attention right away .

Luckily, there is a tested method to create a cover letter that  will help you stand out  from the rest of the applicants.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to:

• Write a cover letter if you have work experience Write a cover letter if you have no work experience Write your cover letter if you have an employment gap

You’ll also get some useful  cover letter  tips for engineering, and be able to see expertly-written engineering cover letter samples.

To familiarize yourself with what a good cover should look like, you can review this cover letter sample below, along with a resume example.

Hiring Manager’s name

Company name

Company address

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

I’m very excited to be applying for the [POSITION] at [COMPANY]. As an Electrical Engineer with more than 4 years of experience working in component design and manufacture for production lines, I am confident I can bring the attention-to-detail and professional oversight necessary to achieve great results.

During my professional work as an Electrical Engineer so far, I have become familiar with formulating solutions to complex problems in circuit board design and power management, as well as preventing component malfunctions in the production line process. In fact, during my last year with [CURRENT COMPANY], my work helped to decrease production downtime by 23%.

Additionally, I am well versed in managing large scale projects, overseeing more than 20 employees, and creating a productive and safe working environment. Furthermore, I bring excellent communication skills, experience in training staff, and first-class accuracy with regards to diagnostics.

I was initially compelled to apply for this position as it focuses on industrial production. This is a field with which I am very familiar and am eager to further progress by taking on a position with more responsibility. However, I also feel that [COMPANY]’s devotion to high standards compliments my own well.

I have attached my resume which details my full career experience and training credentials. I hope that we can meet in person in the near future to discuss the opportunity and how I can help advance the goals of [COMPANY].

Please feel free to contact me via [PHONE NUMBER] between 5 pm and 8 pm any day of the week. I am also available at any time via [EMAIL ADDRESS].

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Name

Address Phone number Email address

In addition to these samples, you can use a cover letter or  resume builder  to make the entire writing process go much smoother.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Engineering with Experience

Having experience can help you a lot when you’re writing your cover letter. However, including any of your  prior work experience is only half the battle .

Remember, your cover letter is not supposed to be exactly like a resume.

You want to  show you are motivated and going to be valuable  to the company you want to work for.

If you don’t start and end your cover letter well, there’s a good chance the hiring manager will not continue with your job application.

So getting your engineering cover letter right is essential!

So how do you  start your letter ?

Let’s take a look at the correct way and the wrong way.

I am an engineer with 5 years of experience. I am writing this letter as part of my application for the engineering vacancy at your company.

This is a very generic opening that won’t grab the manager’s attention at all. It also says very little about you except that you have some experience.

After 5 years of being a team lead that increased productivity at x company by 25%, the engineering vacancy at x company jumped out at me and seems like the perfect opportunity to continue improving and applying my skills.

This is a much better example as it shows an achievement, your experience, and your motivation to do well and even improve.

This opening paragraph should set up the rest of your letter to state the skills you have and  your motivation for working at the new company .

To end your letter , make sure you review the company’s needs and how your experience and skills meet those needs.

Remember to  keep it personal  as well.

How to Write a Cover Letter with an Employment Gap

When looking at cover letter and  resume examples  for inspiration, you may have a tough time figuring out what to include if you’ve had a gap in your employment history.

With a  gap in your employment history , you may think you have no chance of landing the job.

However, that doesn’t necessarily need to be the case.

There are plenty of  good reasons someone did not work  for a certain amount of time.

So what are some things you should include in your cover letter if you were out of work for an extended period?

• Be honest: A hiring manager will probably find out about it and may come to the wrong conclusion. Briefly explain why you weren’t or couldn’t be working.
• Don’t worry about every single gap: If it’s a short amount of time, or it was a long time ago, you probably don’t need to mention it.

When it comes time to interview, you should also  be prepared to answer any question  related to your gap in employment.

You could even turn your gap into a positive. You can briefly mention any  relevant skills  you learned in your cover letter or resume.

However, remember to stick to the correct cover letter and  resume format  when creating your documents.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Engineering with No Experience

One thing a lot of applicants read that stops them from even applying, is when the posting wants someone with job experience.

If you see that and don’t have any engineering experience,  don’t delete your application .

Even with no engineering experience, you can create a cover letter that shows  how your qualities match the vacancy  and that you are a fantastic fit for the available position.

So what’s  the secret ?

What you should do is, fully  understand what the company needs . That means analyzing what they want from their employees and what the goals of the company are.

Once you do that,  use your education and any internship experience  to demonstrate that you are a good fit.

In your cover letter, make sure to give  examples of your personality  and internship or freelancing experience and touch on:

• Company needs
• Relevant achievements
• Your valuable skills

By including those 3 points, it will make the hiring manager feel you know what you’re doing.

You may not be as experienced as other applicants, but you can  show you fill the company’s needs  and be a valuable employee.

When writing the motivation statement, you have the opportunity to convince the employer you’re ready to learn and will work harder than the rest of the applicants.

Engineer Cover Letter Tips and Advice

Engineering jobs are technical and specific in nature. The field of engineering is very wide and can range through  civil ,  electrical , and  mechanical  disciplines amongst others. It’s therefore critical that you  tailor your letter as much as possible to the type of job on offer  and to communicate your specific experience.

Double-check everything before you hit send on your application. One small mistake can absolutely scupper your chances of getting the job.

It’s important to throw in some examples of where your  efforts have yielded results.  A few carefully chosen statistics such as any percentile improvements in efficiency you helped achieve, production increases or cost savings that occurred on your watch will all help to do this.

Also, remember that Engineering is a career that is highly regulated and often requires a state license. Because of this, it is highly worth mentioning the status of your  PE (Professional Engineering)  license, especially if the job description specifies it.

Finally, don’t forget to proof everything once done  and to be mindful of the amount of industry-focused keywords you use in your letter. The level of complexity for an Engineering covering document should be detailed enough to show you know how to do the job but accessible for a recruiter to be able to understand without a background in engineering itself.

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How to Write a Cover Letter: A Comprehensive Guide with Examples (2024)

Crafting a compelling cover letter is the first step towards landing an interview. It’s usually the first impression an employer gets before even seeing your resume, and it will help to set the tone and establish your personality before getting into your qualifications and suitability for the position.

Whether you're applying for a job, internship, or generally submitting your resume for consideration, understanding how to write a cover letter can significantly enhance your chances of success.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a formal document accompanying your resume that introduces yourself to potential employers, highlighting your qualifications, experiences, and interest in a specific job or internship. It offers you the opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the role in a more personalized manner than a resume alone.

Cover Letter Format

The format of a cover letter typically follows a standard business letter structure. It includes your contact information, the date, the recipient's contact details, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. Ensure that your cover letter is concise, well-organized, and visually appealing, using a professional font and maintaining consistent formatting throughout.

As your cover letter will often be sent as an email, check this guide on how to write an email for some general tips on subject lines, email greetings, structuring the main content, and signing off.

Cover Letter for a Job

When applying for a job, a cover letter for your resume is often expected, and it serves as your initial introduction to potential employers. It should be customized for each position, showcasing how your skills and experiences fit the job requirements. A well-crafted cover letter can distinguish you from other applicants and increase your chances of securing an interview, especially if you can show that you’re genuinely aligned with the company’s goals.

Cover Letter for an Internship

For internship applications, a cover letter is equally essential. It allows you to convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity, relevant skills, and willingness to learn. Even if you have limited professional experience, your cover letter can highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and relevant coursework that demonstrate your potential value to the organization.

Writing a Cover Letter

Let’s get into how to write a cover letter, step by step:

Step 1: How to Address a Cover Letter

When addressing your cover letter, it's essential to find out the name and title of the hiring manager or recruiter whenever possible. Addressing the letter to a specific individual adds a personal touch and demonstrates your initiative. A quick note on how to address a cover letter without a name. If you're unable to identify the recipient, you can use a general greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."

Step 2: What to Include in a Cover Letter

Writing a compelling cover letter requires careful attention to detail and a strategic approach. Begin by thoroughly researching the company and the position to tailor your letter accordingly. Highlight your most relevant experiences and accomplishments, using specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications. Keep your language professional, yet engaging, and avoid using generic templates or clichés. Instead, strive to make a memorable impression that sets you apart from other candidates by showing you understand what the company is about.

Structure-wise, a well-written cover letter should include the following elements:

Introduction : Start by stating the position you're applying for and how you learned about it. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and briefly introduce yourself.

Body Paragraphs : Use one or two paragraphs to highlight your relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your qualifications and fit for the role. Tailor your content to align with the job description and company's needs.

Closing Paragraph : Summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your willingness to discuss further in an interview.

Closing : End your cover letter with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and contact information.

By using this kind of cover letter template, you can keep a clear and structured approach whilst also easily adjusting your content each time to customize it for each specific contact.

Before you send

Remember maintain professionalism throughout and always proofread your cover letter before you send it off. Check this quick list of cover letter dos and don’ts so you can ensure you’ve done everything you can and haven’t made any glaring errors along the way.

Note for students: While it may be reasonable to apply for internships with your university email, it probably won’t come across as particularly professional for proper job applications. Contacting an employer from a free email account with a funny name you made when you were an adolescent also won’t be particularly impressive. You may want to use a service like Inbox.com and create a business email account that shows you’re a serious professional.

Cover letter examples

Here are some short cover letter samples that you can use as templates for your own letter. Note that although the content should be adapted both to you and to the company you’re applying to, a similar structure applies in all cases.

1. Marketing Manager Cover Letter:

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With over five years of experience in marketing strategy development, campaign management, and brand positioning, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive results for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I led cross-functional teams to develop and execute innovative marketing campaigns that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My ability to analyze market trends, identify customer insights, and leverage data-driven strategies has consistently delivered impactful results and exceeded organizational objectives.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing, social media management, and content development to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its continued success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

2. Software Engineer Cover Letter:

I am writing to apply for the Software Engineer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and three years of hands-on experience in software development and coding, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and develop innovative solutions for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I played a key role in designing and implementing scalable software solutions that optimized workflow efficiency and enhanced user experience. My proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, and JavaScript, coupled with my strong problem-solving skills, has enabled me to deliver high-quality software solutions that meet and exceed client expectations.

I am impressed by [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my technical skills and passion for innovation to support [Company Name]'s goals of [mention company goals or objectives].

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my background and expertise align with the needs of [Company Name] and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to schedule a discussion.

3. Graphic Designer Cover Letter:

I am thrilled to apply for the Graphic Designer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a strong background in visual communication, brand identity development, and multimedia design, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my creativity and expertise to your team and contribute to [Company Name]'s success.

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I collaborated with cross-functional teams to create visually compelling designs that effectively communicated brand messages and engaged target audiences. My proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with my attention to detail and passion for design, has allowed me to deliver innovative solutions that align with client objectives and exceed expectations.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my design skills and artistic vision to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its creative endeavors. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

What is a cover letter for a job?

A cover letter for a job is a formal document submitted alongside a resume during the application process. It introduces the applicant to the potential employer and highlights their qualifications, experiences, and interest in the specific job position.

What is a cover letter for a resume?

A cover letter for a resume is a document that accompanies a resume when applying for a job. While the resume provides a summary of the applicant's skills and experiences, the cover letter offers additional context and insight into their suitability for the position.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce the applicant to the potential employer, showcase their qualifications and experiences, and express their interest in the job position. It allows applicants to personalize their application and demonstrate their enthusiasm and suitability for the role.

What does a cover letter look like?

A cover letter typically follows a formal business letter format, including the sender's and recipient's contact information, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. It should be well-organized, concise, and visually appealing, with a professional tone and consistent formatting.

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be concise and to the point, typically no longer than one page. It should provide enough information to highlight the applicant's qualifications and interest in the position without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details.

What should be in a cover letter?

A cover letter should include the sender's and recipient's contact information, a formal salutation, an introduction stating the position being applied for and how the applicant learned about it, body paragraphs highlighting relevant qualifications and experiences, and a closing expressing gratitude and interest in further discussion.

How to Start a Cover Letter

To start your cover letter effectively, consider using a strong opening sentence or attention-grabbing statement that immediately captures the reader's interest. You can mention a mutual connection, reference a recent company accomplishment, or highlight a specific aspect of the job that excites you.

How to End a Cover Letter

Ending your cover letter on a high note is crucial to leave a lasting impression. In the closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the position and express your gratitude for the opportunity to apply. Convey confidence in your ability to contribute to the company's success. Finally, use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name.

Updated: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

Published: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

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How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job

I ’ve read thousands, maybe tens of thousands, of cover letters in my career. If you’re thinking that sounds like really boring reading, you’re right. What I can tell you from enduring that experience is that most cover letters are terrible — and not only that, but squandered opportunities. When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test.

So let’s talk about how to do cover letters right.

First, understand the point of a cover letter.

The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just your résumé. Managers generally aren’t hiring based solely on your work history; your experience is crucial, yes, but they’re also looking for someone who will be easy to work with, shows good judgment, communicates well, possesses strong critical thinking skills and a drive to get things done, complements their current team, and all the other things you yourself probably want from your co-workers. It’s tough to learn much about those things from job history alone, and that’s where your cover letter comes in.

Because of that …

Whatever you do, don’t just summarize your résumé.

The No. 1 mistake people make with cover letters is that they simply use them to summarize their résumé. This makes no sense — hiring managers don’t need a summary of your résumé! It’s on the very next page! They’re about to see it as soon as they scroll down. And if you think about it, your entire application is only a few pages (in most cases, a one- or two-page résumé and a one-page cover letter) — why would you squander one of those pages by repeating the content of the others? And yet, probably 95 percent of the cover letters I see don’t add anything new beyond the résumé itself (and that’s a conservative estimate).

Instead, your cover letter should go beyond your work history to talk about things that make you especially well-suited for the job. For example, if you’re applying for an assistant job that requires being highly organized and you neurotically track your household finances in a detailed, color-coded spreadsheet, most hiring managers would love to know that because it says something about the kind of attention to detail you’d bring to the job. That’s not something you could put on your résumé, but it can go in your cover letter.

Or maybe your last boss told you that you were the most accurate data processor she’d ever seen, or came to rely on you as her go-to person whenever a lightning-fast rewrite was needed. Maybe your co-workers called you “the client whisperer” because of your skill in calming upset clients. Maybe you’re regularly sought out by more senior staff to help problem-solve, or you find immense satisfaction in bringing order to chaos. Those sorts of details illustrate what you bring to the job in a different way than your résumé does, and they belong in your cover letter.

If you’re still stumped, pretend you’re writing an email to a friend about why you’d be great at the job. You probably wouldn’t do that by stiffly reciting your work history, right? You’d talk about what you’re good at and how you’d approach the work. That’s what you want here.

You don’t need a creative opening line.

If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you don’t. Just be simple and straightforward:

• “I’m writing to apply for your X position.”

• “I’d love to be considered for your X position.”

• “I’m interested in your X position because …”

• “I’m excited to apply for your X position.”

That’s it! Straightforward is fine — better, even, if the alternative is sounding like an aggressive salesperson.

Show, don’t tell.

A lot of cover letters assert that the person who wrote it would excel at the job or announce that the applicant is a skillful engineer or a great communicator or all sorts of other subjective superlatives. That’s wasted space — the hiring manager has no reason to believe it, and so many candidates claim those things about themselves that most managers ignore that sort of self-assessment entirely. So instead of simply declaring that you’re great at X (whatever X is), your letter should demonstrate that. And the way you do that is by describing accomplishments and experiences that illustrate it.

Here’s a concrete example taken from one extraordinarily effective cover-letter makeover that I saw. The candidate had originally written, “I offer exceptional attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and a talent for managing complex projects with a demonstrated ability to prioritize and multitask.” That’s pretty boring and not especially convincing, right? (This is also exactly how most people’s cover letters read.)

In her revised version, she wrote this instead:

“In addition to being flexible and responsive, I’m also a fanatic for details — particularly when it comes to presentation. One of my recent projects involved coordinating a 200-page grant proposal: I proofed and edited the narratives provided by the division head, formatted spreadsheets, and generally made sure that every line was letter-perfect and that the entire finished product conformed to the specific guidelines of the RFP. (The result? A five-year, $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying this same level of attention to detail to tasks as visible as prepping the materials for a top-level meeting and as mundane as making sure the copier never runs out of paper.”

That second version is so much more compelling and interesting — and makes me believe that she really is great with details.

If there’s anything unusual or confusing about your candidacy, address it in the letter.

Your cover letter is your chance to provide context for things that otherwise might seem confusing or less than ideal to a hiring manager. For example, if you’re overqualified for the position but are excited about it anyway, or if you’re a bit underqualified but have reason to think you could excel at the job, address that up front. Or if your background is in a different field but you’re actively working to move into this one, say so, talk about why, and explain how your experience will translate. Or if you’re applying for a job across the country from where you live because you’re hoping to relocate to be closer to your family, let them know that.

If you don’t provide that kind of context, it’s too easy for a hiring manager to decide you’re the wrong fit or applying to everything you see or don’t understand the job description and put you in the “no” pile. A cover letter gives you a chance to say, “No, wait — here’s why this could be a good match.”

Keep the tone warm and conversational.

While there are some industries that prize formal-sounding cover letters — like law — in most fields, yours will stand out if it’s warm and conversational. Aim for the tone you’d use if you were writing to a co-worker whom you liked a lot but didn’t know especially well. It’s okay to show some personality or even use humor; as long as you don’t go overboard, your letter will be stronger for it.

Don’t use a form letter.

You don’t need to write every cover letter completely from scratch, but if you’re not customizing it to each job, you’re doing it wrong. Form letters tend to read like form letters, and they waste the chance to speak to the specifics of what this employer is looking for and what it will take to thrive in this particular job.

If you’re applying for a lot of similar jobs, of course you’ll end up reusing language from one letter to the next. But you shouldn’t have a single cover letter that you wrote once and then use every time you apply; whatever you send should sound like you wrote it with the nuances of this one job in mind.

A good litmus test is this: Could you imagine other applicants for this job sending in the same letter? If so, that’s a sign that you haven’t made it individualized enough to you and are probably leaning too heavily on reciting your work history.

No, you don’t need to hunt down the hiring manager’s name.

If you read much job-search advice, at some point you’ll come across the idea that you need to do Woodward and Bernstein–level research to hunt down the hiring manager’s name in order to open your letter with “Dear Matilda Jones.” You don’t need to do this; no reasonable hiring manager will care. If the name is easily available, by all means, feel free to use it, but otherwise “Dear Hiring Manager” is absolutely fine. Take the hour you just freed up and do something more enjoyable with it.

Keep it under one page.

If your cover letters are longer than a page, you’re writing too much, and you risk annoying hiring managers who are likely sifting through hundreds of applications and don’t have time to read lengthy tomes. On the other hand, if you only write one paragraph, it’s unlikely that you’re making a compelling case for yourself as a candidate — not impossible, but unlikely. For most people, something close to a page is about right.

Don’t agonize over the small details.

What matters most about your cover letter is its content. You should of course ensure that it’s well-written and thoroughly proofread, but many job seekers agonize over elements of the letter that really don’t matter. I get tons of  questions from job seekers  about whether they should attach their cover letter or put it in the body of the email (answer: No one cares, but attaching it makes it easier to share and will preserve your formatting), or what to name the file (again, no one really cares as long as it’s reasonably professional, but when people are dealing with hundreds of files named “resume,” it’s courteous to name it with your full name).

Approaching your cover letter like this can make a huge difference in your job search. It can be the thing that moves your application from the “maybe” pile (or even the “no” pile) to the “yes” pile. Of course, writing cover letters like this will take more time than sending out the same templated letter summarizing your résumé — but 10 personalized, compelling cover letters are likely to get you more  interview invitations  than 50 generic ones will.

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Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2024?

Published: April 03, 2024

Writing a cover letter can be daunting.

I’ll never forget my college career coach, who made writing a cover letter look easy. Even with her tips, I’ve always found it incredibly difficult to talk about myself and hype up my accomplishments.

While it acts as a letter of introduction, I’ve wondered if a cover letter is necessary in 2024. To find out, I spoke with two recruiters and gained insights on how to write the best cover letter for any job application.

How important is a cover letter?

Is a cover letter necessary, when to skip a cover letter, when to include a cover letter, tips for writing a cover letter, what if the cover letter is optional.

Cover letters are short letters of introduction that you include with job applications.

Typically, they are your chance to go into deeper details about your accomplishments that you might not have highlighted or had room to mention on your resume.

Tiffany Hall, a professional resume writer and founder of Resume911 , says cover letters are an important part of the job application process.

Hall says, “Cover letters can be very important. It’s supposed to sell why you, of all applicants, should get the job. The issue is that applicants use them to regurgitate what’s on their resume, and that’s not what it’s for. It should speak to what isn’t easily explained with your resume.”

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For example, if your resume says you’re skilled at building web pages, your cover letter is a great place to name-drop companies that you’ve worked for to create their websites.

Matthew Muehleisen, a corporate recruiter , thinks a cover letter is also a great place to show you’ve done your homework and researched a company.

Muehleisen says, “It can be what sets you apart from other candidates and applicants and is a good opportunity to show that you’ve done research on the position and company to further showcase your interest in the role.”

Knowing the importance of a cover letter still begs the question: Is a cover letter necessary in 2024?

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While a cover letter can help demonstrate your knowledge of the company you’re applying to and highlight more of your achievements, both Hall and Muehleisen agree that a cover letter isn’t entirely necessary.

Muehleisen says, “Unless it’s a requirement of the application, I wouldn’t say it’s necessary to include a cover letter. There are some roles (usually in content creation and marketing) that will ask for a cover letter as a form of a writing sample. In these instances, make sure your letter is polished and focused.”

If Hall had her way, she would eliminate the cover letter entirely, focus more on the resume, and ask for a link to an applicant’s LinkedIn profile.

According to Hall, “Most cover letters either repeat the resume or they speak to why the applicant isn’t a good fit. Neither is the purpose of a cover letter.”

Nevertheless, 74% of hiring managers still prefer applications to include a cover letter. So, it is definitely worth considering including one — even if the application says it’s optional.

If you’re looking for a new role, writing a cover letter can be time-consuming — especially if you take the time to personalize every letter you send to a hiring manager.

Although a cover letter does serve a legitimate purpose, and 83% of hiring managers read it, there are a few situations where you shouldn’t include a cover letter. Let’s take a look at those scenarios.

If You Only Have a Template of a Cover Letter

I get it. Writing an effective cover letter takes a significant amount of time.

But consider not sending one if you only have time to plug your information into a cover letter template without personalizing it before hitting submit on an application.

Don’t get me wrong. A cover letter template is a great starting point to write your cover letter. Templates often remind you to include pertinent information like the hiring manager’s title, name, and your contact information.

However, if you don’t take the time to edit the body of the cover letter and personalize it with research and your relevant experience, you risk sending the same letter as another candidate.

And considering that 48% of hiring managers spend anywhere from 30 seconds to two full minutes reading each cover letter, the chances are high that your hiring manager can spot a form letter a mile away.

Don’t send it if you don’t have the time to personalize a cover letter.

If Your Cover Letter Is Full of Critique

A cover letter is meant to explain why you’re the best candidate for the open position. However, a cover letter is not a place for you to share your ideas of how the company can improve.

Sure, every company likely has areas of improvement, and the job you’re applying for might be the role that gets a say in that, but a list of improvements might read as a critique.

You don’t want to potentially offend a hiring manager before you even get an interview. A bad cover letter can hurt a strong candidate, according to 33% of hiring managers .

Before you submit your cover letter, read through it several times to make sure it’s not a critique. If it does sound like a critique, throw it out.

If It’s Not Required

There are other instances where you shouldn’t send a cover letter. For example, if the application’s instructions specifically state that you do not need to submit a cover letter for consideration for the job.

In fact, sending a cover letter anyway can signal to the hiring manager that you don’t follow instructions. Not following instructions is also a great way to land your application in the trash bin.

The bottom line is this: If the application specifically states not to send a cover letter, don’t send it.

Of hiring managers, 74% prefer to see job applications with a cover letter apart from the resume. Knowing this, if you have the time to include a cover letter with your job application, don’t skip it.

Here are three instances when you should send a cover letter with your application.

Send a cover letter if you’re very interested in the role.

Think of your cover letter as your time to shine. Use it as a place to highlight your experiences and the qualifications that make you a great fit for the position.

Hall says, “If you can speak to why you’re a good candidate without copying your resume in paragraph form, include a cover letter.”

In other words, don’t use bullet points in your cover letter to describe your previous employment history.

Instead, talk about what you learned on the job and how your skills will help you excel in the role you’re applying for.

Send a cover letter when there’s a gap in your resume or you’re transitioning industries.

If you’re looking to transition to another industry, you should definitely include a cover letter with your application.

Speaking from personal experience, if I had only submitted a resume to my school district when I applied to be a Spanish teacher, the hiring manager would have just seen my experience in Public Health and would not have known about my skills and success in tutoring students in Spanish.

Muehleisen puts it this way, “If you’re looking to transition to a new industry or if there is a position and company you’re really excited about pursuing as an opportunity, these are the best instances to include a cover letter so that you can possibly give yourself an advantage.”

A cover letter can also help explain any gaps in your resume — especially if the gap in your employment history is beneficial to the role you’re applying for.

For example, maybe you volunteered in South America, and the role you’re applying for is for a position in Global Operations.

It never hurts to include positive, pertinent information in your cover letter.

Send a cover letter when it’s required.

The most obvious time to include a cover letter with your application is when it is required. Just like not including a cover letter when it’s not required, it shows you can follow directions.

Include a cover letter when the application asks you to submit one, which shows you can follow directions.

Plus, if the application asks for a cover letter, you can bet the hiring manager will look for it. If no cover letter is included, well, you’re sabotaging your chances of getting an interview.

Only 13% of hiring managers will consider giving a candidate an interview if they don’t attach a required cover letter to an application.

Writing a cover letter is not as painful as it sounds. There are great templates you can use as a starting point for your cover letter.

The trick with a template, though, is to make sure you always personalize the letter to your own experiences and qualifications.

Here are five expert tips to write a winning cover letter.

1. Tailor your cover letter to the job description.

When writing a cover letter, especially if you use a cover letter template, you should tailor the letter to match the job description and meet the requirements of the application.

For example, if the application asks you to attach a short cover letter, keep it brief. Your best bet is one to two short paragraphs detailing why you’re a great fit for the position.

You’ll also want to reference keywords from the job description in your cover letter. Many recruiters use applicant tracking systems that scan application packets for the best fit.

Often, hiring managers review the applications that match the keywords first.

Now, that doesn’t mean to stuff your cover letter with keywords. Instead, use them in a natural way as you discuss your qualifications.

2. Be personable with your greeting.

You might have seen the advice telling you to use “To Whom It May Concern” instead of the hiring manager’s name. This is good advice, but only if you do not know the hiring manager.

Before resorting to a generic greeting to start your cover letter, take the time to look on the company’s website and LinkedIn to find out who makes hiring decisions.

If you have contacts in your network who are familiar with the company, ask them. Taking the time to research the hiring manager and the company shows you care about the details — a quality many hiring managers look for in a candidate!

If you’re still unsure after researching the company, consider using “Dear Sir or Madam” as your greeting.

3. Be yourself.

While a cover letter is a formal introduction of yourself to a potential employer, it doesn’t need to be lacking in personality. Hall suggests sprinkling your personality in your cover letter to spark connections with the hiring manager.

Hall says, “Be your best professional self. I’m a foodie and will include references to food on my LinkedIn, and I’ve done it in a cover letter. I’ve had managers reference them, and we had a chuckle. I am also very clear about aligning myself with companies whose mission and goals I respect and can contribute to. I make sure to speak to that in the cover letter.”

Take Hall’s advice. Showcasing your vibrant personality in your cover letter can help break the ice in your interview!

4. Proofread your cover letter.

Once you’ve written your cover letter and before you hit “send,” double-check that it is free from spelling and grammar errors and that the company you referenced is the company you are applying to.

Muehleisen says skipping proofreading your cover letter is a big mistake — and it could cost you the job!

Muehleisen says, “Make sure that you are proofreading prior to sending. If the cover letter feels like it is a simple cut/paste or if the job title and company name are incorrect, it may do more harm than good. So, be sure that what you’re sending is pertinent.”

5. Be cautious of AI.

AI tools, like ChatGPT or Claude, are great for helping draft content. You might be tempted to ask generative AI to write your cover letter for you. However, both Hall and Muehleisen say to proceed with caution when it comes to AI.

Hall says, “AI is coming along in amazing ways, so it may come as a surprise that my best tip didn’t include AI. I tell my clients when they’re stuck to look to their peers. You can search people by job title on LinkedIn. See how they describe themselves and pull from there. Or, hire a resume writer or career strategist to help you.”

Muehleisen agrees with her. He says, “I would hesitate to use a tool or service for a cover letter as the point should be to show your authenticity. If you are going to use AI for assistance, make sure to put your own words in as well.”

However, when you write your cover letter, whether using a template or generative AI, personalizing it is key to standing out from the competition.

If the job description says a cover letter is optional, should you send one, or can you get by without it?

That can be tricky, considering 72% of recruiters still expect a cover, even if it’s optional.

According to Muehleisen, sending a cover letter is not a bad idea. He says, “I’ve never heard of a cover letter hurting an applicant’s chances; just make sure the one you’re including is specific to the job description and posting.”

Check out these cover letter examples for more inspiration.

Experiment With Your Cover Letters

Writing a cover letter is a breeze once you get the hang of it. With today’s challenging job market, sending a cover letter with your application can make a difference in whether you get called for an interview.

I can’t make promises that your cover letter will dazzle hiring managers each time, but for the right position for you, it will.

Remember Hall and Muehleisen’s advice when you craft your cover letter. Personalization is key to success!

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