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

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

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

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

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

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

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

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

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

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

1. Personalization

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

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

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

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

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

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

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

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

Clear and concise writing

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

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

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

Achievements and accomplishments

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

Enthusiasm and motivation

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

Professionalism

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

How do you structure a cover letter?

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

Contact information

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

Employer's contact information

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

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

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

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

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

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

1. Add a header and contact information

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

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

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

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

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

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

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

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

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

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

3. Draw them in with an opening story

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

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

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

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

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

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

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

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

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

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

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

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

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

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

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

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

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

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

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

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

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

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

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

Should I include references in my cover letter?

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

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

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

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

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

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

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

Ace your job search

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

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

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

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

Apr 16, 2024

By Nancy Koziol

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

Stats on Career Changers

Career changes are more common than you might think.

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

Understanding the Career Change Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

An Effective Cover Letter Hooks the Reader

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

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

Research Your Prospective Employer

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

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

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

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

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

Organizing a Strong Cover Letter

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

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

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

Drafting The Meat of Your Letter

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

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

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

Craft a Strong Opening Paragraph for your Cover Letter

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

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

Instead, start stronger.

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

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

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

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

Ending Your Letter

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

Never Complain, Never Explain

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

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

Cover Letter Tips for Everyone

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

Do not go Over one Page

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

Use the Active Voice

Consider the following two sentences:

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

The first sentence uses more words to say less.

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

Don't be Fancy

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

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

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

Proofread Carefully

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

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

Don't Give up

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

Reading next

How to Write a Resume With No Experience

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A guide to writing a great cover letter

So you’re applying for a dream job; you’ve sorted out your CV and now it’s time to write your cover letter . First thing’s first, don’t panic! 😱 Writing about yourself and your skills might feel tough to begin with, but it’s pretty simple once you know the basics. Here, we’re taking you through some essential tips to writing a standout cover letter.

What is a cover letter, and why do you need one?

A cover letter is a more personal and detailed companion to your CV. In a few paragraphs, it’s a chance to highlight why you’re suitable for a role, and let a potential employer know more about your experience and skills. It’s also an opportunity for you to stand out from the crowd. Not all recruiters ask for a cover letter, but it can make all the difference to whether you’re called for an interview.

Cover letters can take numerous forms – from being integrated as questions in an online application form, or writing it directly into an email, to a separate attachment.

What should a cover letter look like?

In most cases, a cover letter will be submitted as a digital attachment in PDF format. When you create this document, be sure to name it something simple like: ‘ Application for junior designer–Jane Doe’.

As for the design, try not to overthink this too much, and take your visual cues from the design of your CV. Keep it simple, easy-to-read and give yourself enough spacing between paragraphs.

How long should it be? Ideally it should just be a few paragraphs long – usually between 300–500 words, and no more than a page. This means you’ll want to keep things concise and waffle-free!

Before you start writing: Do your research

The first thing to note is the importance of tailoring each and every cover letter to the role you’re applying for. Never (and we repeat, never!) copy-paste the same letter for different jobs. This is where nailing your research comes in...

🤓 Get to know the company

We cannot stress enough how vital this is; you need to show that you’ve done the research. There are a few ways to do this: • Read the mission statement on a company’s website • Get to know their work and clients • Have a scroll through their social media profiles

Take note of the things you like about them and start thinking of ways to tell them this in your cover letter.

🧐 Understand what they’re looking for

Another key point is to carefully read and analyse the job description. Consider the following:

• What skills are required? • What qualifications are required? • What are the responsibilities within the role? Note down examples of where you’ve used those skills, or have previous relevant experiences.

The cover letter: What should you actually write?

Before you start tapping away, it’s a good idea to have a solid structure to follow, such as:

• A greeting , addressing the recruiter or company hiring
• An opening paragrap h , detailing what interests you about the position and why
• Middle paragraph(s) , highlighting your relevant skills and experiences
• A closing paragraph , rounding things up

We’re going to break down these elements below in a little more detail.

1. Greeting

It can be easy to assume that you have to sound ‘professional’ in a cover letter, but remember that this isn’t an academic essay. Write as you would naturally, and whatever you do, avoid writing “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom this may concern”.

Sometimes a company will provide details of who’ll be reading your application, but if you don’t know who to address it to, you could use something like:

• To the team at StudioName,
• Hi team StudioName!
• Dear StudioName team,

2. Your opening paragraph

👋 begin with a snappy intro.

Next comes your introduction. Here you should mention:

• What appealed to you about the position
• Why you were enticed to apply
• Why you’re interested in the company

Instead of just using the generic “I’m writing to apply for the role at Company…”, opt for something more personal and specific to you. Here are a couple of examples:

Example 1 As an avid reader who has every book of yours on the shelf (it’s true, ask me anything), I was more than excited to see a role open up as an editorial assistant a t ILoveBooks Publishing.

Example 2 As someone who’s followed your brilliant work for a few years now, I was so excited to see the role of junior designer open up. I’ve always admired the characterful and playful tone of your work for clients like Client1 and Client2.

3. Your middle paragraph(s)

Use the middle paragraphs to show why you’re the perfect person for the position. Here you can demonstrate:

• Why you’re a great fit for the role
• The proven experience and skills you bring
• How the role lines up with your ambitions and career direction

If you’re just starting out and don’t yet have loads of experience, don’t sweat it. You can still reference everything from self-initiated work to volunteering projects. And if you have heaps of experience, only highlight the best and most relevant parts. Think quality over quantity!

📚 Examples, examples, examples

We’ve all heard someone say they’re a ‘team player’, but have they proven this?

Look back over those notes you made from the job ad. Identify two or three of the main skills or attributes they’re looking for, and match them with experiences that prove you have those skills, and be honest!

Here are a some examples:

An example of being ‘organised’ In my previous role, I took the initiative to reorganise the studio’s records into a detailed system. No longer were files lost and misplaced, and the studio’s day-to-day ran much more efficiently.

An example of a ‘keen eye for detail’ On one occasion, with just minutes before sending the files to print, I spotted a major typo and managed to get it resolved quickly and with great detail.

An example of ‘multitasking’ and ‘good communication’ skills In this time, I learnt how to juggle multiple projects at once, switching to different tasks according to the company’s needs, relying on strong communication over email through the day.

An example of being ‘proactive’ and a ‘self-starter’ In my own time, I founded a magazine that celebrates local shop signage. This project taught me a lot about time-keeping and the importance of keeping yourself motivated. The printed edition attracted press from MagazineName, and has built a dedicated Instagram following.

4. Closing paragraph and sign-off

Your closing paragraph rounds everything up. It should be short and sweet, somewhere between one to three sentences. This can be a chance to remind them how much you’d suit the role, thank them for their time and express your keenness to meet.

And when signing off, stick to a friendly and informal tone of voice. Rather than the age-old “Yours sincerely”, try “All the best” or “Best wishes”.

Here’s an example:

I believe my skills and experiences so far would be a great match for this position – it would be great to have the chance to meet and chat about the role further. Thank you for taking the time to read my application; you can find my CV attached with further information, and I very much look forward to hearing from you!

Best wishes, Jane Doe

Before you hit ‘send’

🖨 proof it.

Perhaps the most important step is to spell-check and proof-read your cover letter. The last thing you want is a typo slipping through the net, or a name spelled wrong – especially if they’re looking for someone with a “keen eye for detail”!

A good way to do this is to print your cover letter out, if you can. Reading a physical copy can make it surprisingly easy to spot typos that are easy to skim past on a screen.

🎤 Read it out loud

Reading your work out loud can give you a sense of how it feels overall. You’ll start to notice if sentences feel very long, or if you’ve repeated yourself – the stuff that goes amiss when reading in your head.

You could also get a second opinion from someone you trust – they can proof it all and make sure it sounds like you.

Then finally, proof it one last time, for luck. Once you’re feeling good about it, take a deep breath, and click ‘send’ or ‘submit’! 🤞

... Looking for more advice and tips? See our guide to creating a great CV here, and our full Guides series .

Written by Creative Lives in Progress Illustration by Rosie Reynolds

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

You’ve done it. At last the search is over. You’ve found your dream job. Ah, Oh. You have to write a cover letter.

Now the question is how to get considered for the position when there are 250 other applicants? The best, most direct way you can showcase your talent is only partially through your resume—the first impression you make is with the cover letter. Resumes are flat. This is your opportunity to become three-dimensional to your prospective employer. Don’t hate the cover letter—embrace it! You can write the perfect cover letter that’s going to open doors to set you on your path to your dream job. Here’s how.

1. Brainstorm.

Write a list of five positive adjectives, attributes, or skills that describe you. Don’t just pick adjectives at random—you have to be able to support them with evidence. Here are some samples to get you started:

• Excellent time management skills: took 18 hour course load as part of your degree in Communication, participated in 4 clubs, and volunteered 20 hours per week, while maintaining at 3.75 GPA.
• Compassionate: volunteer at a soup kitchen 20 hours per week
• Creative: hobbies are painting and pottery, member of the Creative Writing Society and Poetry Exchange

2. How to Begin.

I understand that you want to be unique and eye-catching. The first two sentences of a cover letter are generally not the place to do so. It’s slightly formulaic, but you should always being your cover letter with a statement of purpose. First and foremost, they have to know what position you’re applying for! You should begin with a variant of:

• “I am writing to express my interest in the position of Junior Community Editor and Curator. I would like to briefly share why I feel I am a strong candidate for the position.”

3. Make your Battle Plan .

You have to be strategic about what to highlight in your cover letter. You need to critically scan the job description and incorporate strategic words in your letter. Large corporations actually scan cover letters and chuck out the applications that don’t mention certain key words.

How to do this? Let’s pick apart an actual advertisement for a Junior Community Editor & Curator position. The description stresses analytics, research, social networking and social business platforms, strong communication skills—make sure you include these words in your cover letter!

This job was tailored made for  Arts and Communication  majors. Your BS degree in Strategic Communication provides you with the exact skill set they’re looking for. They want strategic newsletters? Perfect! Your course in Strategic Communication taught you how to strategically target stakeholders in publications, and you developed the skill as part of your internship with Marketing, where you strategically designed a newsletter for incoming freshman.

You’ve conducted in-depth research on the emerging trend of advertising across social media platforms, and are masterful in using Facebook, Twitter, Google-Plus, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

Moreover, you contributed to the  blog for the School of Arts and Communication at Florida Tech, where you received intensive training on how to write effective posts with Google Analytics. Rattle off any skill sets that showcase your communication skills with relevant experience:  strategic communication, new media, layout and design and your role in professional organizations like Florida Public Relations Association and the newspaper The Crimson.

You generally want to keep this section to around three paragraphs. Unlike the short introduction, you can be as expressive as you want, but keep in mind that the best cover letters are one page—you aren’t doing yourself any favors by being super wordy. This is just a taster. If they’re interested in you, they’ll arrange an interview.

It should be single-spaced, and your paragraphs should not be intended, but you should include a blank line to separate paragraphs.

4. Signing off .

You have to revert to a more formal ending. Use a variant of:

• “Thank you for your consideration. I would love to discuss the position further with you at your convenience.”

Newbie mistakes to avoid:

Use the right company name!

Ideally, you should try and tailor each cover letter to the position that you’re applying for; however, when you’re apply for 20 jobs, I can understand how you might not have the time. If you’re simply plugging in the company’s name in a form letter, make sure you change it all the way through: how seriously do you think a recruiter of Corporation X is going to take a cover letter that says “I would love the opportunity to work at Company Y!”?

Proofread proofread proofread!

Spell check isn’t enough: you might have written “through” instead of “though” or—horror of horrors—misused “their” and “they’re.” It’s always better to have a second set of eyes look over your work if you can.

Don’t lose your “youness!” along the way!

A cover letter is a unique opportunity. It is a mirror that you are the dictator of—you can selectively showcase the assets you want to highlight, but the end result still needs to be you. Don’t lose the “youness” along the way!

Still having issues with your cover letter and resume? Fortunately, Florida Tech has an amazing Career Management Service s program.

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How to Write Killer Cover Letters for Job Applications (with a free template!)

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job

Updated June 5, 2023 . AmFam Team

It’s true what they say — looking for a job is a lot of work! From scanning job boards to tweaking your resume to preparing for interviews , it can feel like a job to look for a job!

But did you know one of the most important steps in the application process — writing a great cover letter — can set you apart early on the path to your dream job ? In fact, a recent article shows 53% of employers still want them, and 49% of Human Resource managers think a cover letter is one of the best ways to boost your resume.

Let’s take a look at what a cover letter is and some tips for how to craft one that sets your resume apart from the crowd.

What Is a Cover Letter?

Think of a cover letter as your personal introduction — like sharing a little about yourself to begin a face-to-face conversation with someone you’ve just met. It’s your opportunity to briefly highlight who you are and what you’ve done and inspire further interest. Plus, it can help you connect with the recruiter or hiring manager, give insight into your communication style, and demonstrate your willingness to go the extra mile to show you’re a strong candidate.

You’ll want to keep the tone conversational yet professional and include three core components:

• a captivating and memorable introduction
• a shortlist of work experiences that reveal transferrable skills and provide context to illustrate how you could bring value to the company
• a conclusion that thanks the reviewer for their consideration and invites them to follow up with you (be sure to include your contact information)

While not all job listings request a cover letter, it’s highly recommended that you include one anyway. If there isn’t a place to attach it when responding to an online post, you can pair it with your resume in a single PDF document.

Ready to write a great cover letter? With the following cover letter tips, you’ll be on your way!

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter: What to Include

In today’s competitive job market, knowing how to write a cover letter for a job you really want could set you apart from other applicants. After all, first impressions matter, and since a cover letter may be the first part of your application a potential employer sees, you want to be sure it’s engaging, well-crafted and convincing.

Keep in mind, you have a small amount of space to accomplish a big task. You must be strategic. You’ll want to choose examples that uniquely capture your suitability for the role and accent the reasons you want to work there.

With these tips for writing a great cover letter, you can feel confident you’re taking an important step toward creating an attention-grabbing application.

• Create a strong opening

This is a classic you-had-me-at-hello challenge! Hiring managers receive mountains of cover letters and resumes, so to put yours on top you’ll need an opening that quickly captures interest and makes them want to read more. Rather than a ho-hum “this is my name, and I have X years of experience,” think about more enticing ways to draw in your reader. For example, you might immediately state what you think the company will gain by hiring you. Or you could impress them by sharing something you learned about the company that makes you excited to join their mission.

• Tell a compelling story

Your career is composed of defining moments you’ll want to weave into your cover letter narrative. Again, you must be selective. The goal is to identify a few highlights from your experience and use them to craft a story that resonates with the qualifications noted in the position description. By using these “snippets” to reflect your individual journey, you’ll give insight into your personality and work style.

• Research the company/division and know about its current work

Your school days may be behind you, but there’s still homework! Take the time to investigate and gain a clear understanding of what the company does and its goals and priorities. A little bit of knowledge goes a long way in convincing a potential employer you see the position as more than “just a job” — it’s a career opportunity in which you’re willing to invest.

• Address the recruiter or hiring manager by name

One of the best ways to establish a connection and underscore your interest in the position is to personalize your cover letter. Think about it — when you receive a letter or email addressing you by name, aren’t you more likely to pay attention? With a simple internet search, you may be able to find out who you should address the letter to and make an impression by using their name. If you can’t discover the recipient’s name, consider addressing the letter to the division or the department that’s hiring for the role, such as “Dear (Company Name) Product Engineering team.” Whatever you do, don’t use “To whom it may concern.”

• Include job-related experiences and skills

You can spark a hiring manager’s attention by tailoring your application to demonstrate how you’d be an asset to the company. First, brainstorm and jot down highlights from your career path. Then put your list side-by-side with the job description and choose two or three experiences that shine a light on the characteristics or competencies they’re seeking. To successfully prove you’re a good match for the role, you have to first show you’ve got the skills and background to match the job requirements. Pro tip : Use specific keywords from the posted job requirements so, if the company uses filtering technology to scan for qualified candidates, your application will be flagged for closer review.

• Keep it short

A well-designed, easy-to-read cover letter is succinct. Since space and time are at a premium, keep it concise — no more than three to four paragraphs fit onto one well-organized page. If your cover letter goes beyond one page or isn’t visually appealing, a busy hiring manager may not take the time to sift through it. They will appreciate your ability to edit and leverage your words wisely.

• Customize each cover letter

Here’s the rub: Tailoring your cover letter to each position you apply for takes time and effort. But here’s the payoff: A customized letter could motivate a recruiter to take a closer look at your application and, ultimately, schedule an interview. Use the company name, and reference how your background and abilities are well-matched to their specific needs — whatever it takes to communicate you’re already invested in them and motivated to prove your value to the team.

• Focus on the future

A company that launches a thorough candidate search will be more inclined to pursue someone who expresses a desire to grow with them. Share an accomplishment or skill that shows how you can contribute as the company works to solve current and future business challenges. It’s great to talk about your past experiences but put them in the context of what you can bring to the table to strengthen the company now and in the future.

Nothing says “hire me” like an error-free cover letter and resume. It’s one thing to make a generic statement about your efficiency and attention to detail — it’s quite another to demonstrate those qualities by proofreading your application materials before you hit submit. Scan your cover letter several times and ask a friend or family member to review it to be sure you have resolved any spelling, grammar or punctuation mistakes.

• Consider using a template

A cover letter template is a useful tool to help you get started. It can keep your letter focused and make it visually attractive. If you used a template for your resume, there may even be a matching template for an accompanying cover letter. (If you combine the two documents into one pdf file, this will really give it a unified look.)

What Does a Cover Letter Look Like?

The templates for cover letters are as varied as those for resumes, so you’ll have choices. From college students to executive-level professionals, job seekers of all types can find an appropriate cover letter template through a quick internet search. Simply type “cover letter examples” or “cover letter templates” into your favorite search engine and you’ll discover a plethora of options to get you started.

Cover Letter Ready to Go? Take the Next Step

Now you know how to write an excellent cover letter! By following these tips for writing a cover letter, you’ll not only gain an edge on the competition, but you’ll be one step closer to your next dream job.

Once your cover letter and resume are submitted, you’ll be ready to prepare for and practice answers to common interview questions and nail your next interview !

And remember, we have career growth resources to support you along your professional journey — no matter if you’re looking for your first internship, changing careers or planning to start a new business . Visit us and be inspired!

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