Full Department Name
Name of Institution
Department Address
Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Search Committee Chair’s last name and/or Search Committee Members:
Paragraph 1 [3-5 Sentences]: Identify the position you are applying for. Introduce yourself to the committee and your research interests. Connect your interests to the department and describe what makes you interested in becoming part of this departmental community.
Paragraph 2 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly explain your research to date. Consider mentioning your research questions, methods, key findings, as well as where and when you published and/or presented this work.
Paragraph 3 [4-5 Sentences]: Elaborate on your current research project. Consider mentioning your most prestigious funding awards for this project. Explain your key findings in more detail.
Paragraph 4 [3-5 Sentences]: Introduce your future research plans and goals. Point out the intellectual merit and/or broader impacts of this future work.
Paragraph 5 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly discuss your teaching experience and strategies. Provide examples of teaching strategies or an anecdote highlighting your teaching effectiveness. You may also want to introduce your philosophy on diversity in an academic setting.
Paragraph 6 [2-3 Sentences]: Make a connection between your work and the department to which you are applying. Include how you will participate in the intellectual life of the department both inside and outside the classroom. Provide concrete examples of how you will be a hard-working and collaborative colleague.
Paragraph 7 [1-2 Sentences]: A thank you for the search committee’s time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Your Name
Credentials and Position
Institution/Affiliation Name
Date: Month Day, Year Search Committee Chair’s First and Last Name, Graduate Degree Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Search Committee Chair’s last name and/or Search Committee Members: Paragraph 1 [3-5 Sentences]: Identify the position you are applying for. Introduce yourself to the committee and your research interests. Connect your interests to the department and describe what makes you interested in becoming part of this departmental community. Paragraph 2 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly discuss your teaching experience and pedagogical commitments. Provide examples of teaching strategies or an anecdote highlighting your teaching effectiveness. You may also want to introduce your philosophy on diversity in an academic setting. Paragraph 3 [3-4 Sentences]: Provide a discussion of how you involved yourself with students or the broader university community outside of the traditional classroom setting. Discuss how those interactions influenced your teaching. Paragraph 4 [2-3 Sentences]: Briefly explain your current research interests to date and how it relates to your teaching. State your research questions, methods, and key findings or arguments. Point out the intellectual merit and/or broader impacts of this future work. Paragraph 5 [3-5 Sentences]: Highlight when and where your research was published and/or presented this work or any forthcoming publications. Mention any prestigious funding or awards. Introduce your future research plans and goals. Paragraph 6 [2-3 Sentences]: Make a connection between your work and the department to which you are applying. Include how you will participate in the intellectual life of the department both inside and outside the classroom. Provide concrete examples of how you will be a hard-working and collaborative colleague. Paragraph 7 [1-2 Sentences]: A thank you for the search committee’s time and consideration. Sincerely, Your Name |
Remember your first draft does not have to be your last. Try to get feedback from different readers, especially if it is one of your first applications. It is not uncommon to go through several stages of revisions. Check out the Writing Center’s handout on editing and proofreading and video on proofreading to help with this last stage of writing.
Using the word dissertation. Some search committee members may see the word “dissertation” as a red flag that an applicant is too focused on their role as a graduate student rather than as a prospective faculty member. It may be advantageous, then, to describe your dissertation as current research, a current research project, current work, or some other phrase that demonstrates you are aware that your dissertation is the beginning of a larger scholarly career.
Too much jargon. While you may be writing to a specific department, people on the search committee might be unfamiliar with the details of your subfield. In fact, many committees have at least one member from outside their department. Use terminology that can easily be understood by non-experts. If you want to use a specific term that is crucial to your research, then you should define it. Aim for clarity for your reader, which may mean simplification in lieu of complete precision.
Overselling yourself. While your job letter should sell you as a great candidate, saying so (e.g., “I’m the ideal candidate”) in your letter may come off to some search committee members as presumptuous. Remember that although you have an idea about the type of colleague a department is searching for, ultimately you do not know exactly what they want. Try to avoid phrases or sentences where you state you are the ideal or the only candidate right for the position.
Paying too much attention to the job description. Job descriptions are the result of a lot of debate and compromise. If you have skills or research interests outside the job description, consider including them in your letter. It may be that your extra research interests; your outside skills; and/or your extracurricular involvements make you an attractive candidate. For example, if you are a Latin Americanist who also happens to be well-versed in the Spanish Revolution, it could be worth mentioning the expanse of your research interests because a department might find you could fill in other gaps in the curriculum or add an additional or complementary perspective to the department.
Improper sendoff. The closing of your letter is just as important as the beginning. The end of the letter should reflect the professionalism of the document. There should be a thank-you and the word sincerely or a formal equivalent. Remember, it is the very last place in your letter where you present yourself as a capable future colleague.
Small oversights. Make sure to proofread your letter not just for grammar but also for content. For example, if you use material from another letter, make sure you do not include the names of another school, department, or unassociated faculty! Or, if the school is in Chicago, make sure you do not accidentally reference it as located in the Twin Cities.
Name dropping. You rarely know the internal politics of the department or institution to which you are applying. So be cautious about the names you insert in your cover letters. You do not want to unintentionally insert yourself into a departmental squabble or add fire to an interdepartmental conflict. Instead, focus on the actions you will undertake and the initiatives you are passionate about.
We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.
Ball, Cheryl E. 2013. “Understanding Cover Letters.” Inside Higher Ed , November 3, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/11/04/essay-cover-letter-academic-jobs .
Borchardt, John. 2014. “Writing a Winning Cover Letter.” Science Magazine , August 6, 2014. https://www.sciencemag.org/careers/2014/08/writing-winning-cover-letter# .
Helmreich, William. 2013. “Your First Academic Job.” Inside Higher Ed , June 17, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/06/17/essay-how-land-first-academic-job .
Kelsky, Karen. 2013. “How To Write a Journal Article Submission Cover Letter.” The Professor Is In (blog), April 26, 2013. https://theprofessorisin.com/2013/04/26/how-to-write-a-journal-article-submission-cover-letter/ .
Tomaska, Lubomir, and Josef Nosek. 2008. “Ten Simple Rules for Writing a Cover Letter to Accompany a Job Application for an Academic Position.” PLoS Computational Biology 14(5). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1006132 .
You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Cover Letters
A cover letter tells your story by highlighting your relevant strengths and motivation for the person and organisation you are writing to, rather than listing all the things that can already be seen on your CV.
Always take the opportunity to submit a cover letter if you are given the chance.
The cover letter gives you scope to showcase what interests and drives you, and your enthusiasm for an organisation and the role. You can use it to align yourself with the organisation’s strengths, values and culture, and highlight in a targeted way your knowledge and strongest, most relevant skills for the position.
The content and style are up to you, but a logical and engaging structure is key. Below are some guidelines.
Aim for a professional tone that conveys your message to the reader succinctly - remember it's not an essay or dissertation! Write in clear, concise English – take care not to drown the reader with your detail and avoid jargon they may not understand. The Plain English Campaign has some good guidance on improving your writing style.
Structure it like a business letter, brevity adds power and aim for no longer than 1 side of A4 in length. However, if the organisation gives you very specific instructions about the structure. length and content, follow their guidance.
Introduce yourself and explain why you are writing. If you are responding to an advertisement, state where you saw it. This tells the recruiter why they are reading the letter, and it gives them feedback on which of their advertising sources are working. You need to think about how you would like to introduce yourself; it could be that you mention the course you are studying and when you plan to finish it along with your place of study.
Explain why you are interested in the job and the organisation. Tailor the letter to the organisation and job description to make it clear that you haven't sent out multiple copies of the same letter to different employers.
Draw on your research, especially what you have learnt from speaking with their staff (e.g. while meeting them at a fair or event, or during work shadowing/experience) as this will demonstrate an awareness and understanding of them that goes beyond the corporate website. Be specific about why the position is particularly attractive for you, and back this up with evidence from your past, or by linking this to your overall career plans, and what you find exciting about this sector, don’t just repeat the text from their publicity material.
Explain why you are well-suited to the position. Refer to the most relevant skills (c.3-5), experience and knowledge you have and match what you say to the requirements outlined in the job description. Tell your story and highlight key evidence so that you are building on your CV, but not using exactly the same phrases. Make sure you read our guidance on demonstrating you fit the job criteria for more advice.
As your aim is to convince the recruiter that you are a suitable candidate for the job, focus on your accomplishments and the transferable skills that are relevant to the role. State explicitly how you match the job criteria – don’t expect the person reading your letter to infer your skills or experiences for themselves.
Support your claims by referring to examples that are already detailed in your CV. You can make a stronger, more credible case by linking different experiences that highlight similar skills or competences. For example:
Reiterate your desire to join the organisation and end on a ‘look forward to hearing from you’ statement, followed by ‘Yours sincerely’ if writing to a named individual and ‘Yours faithfully’ if you have not been able to find a named contact.
Academic cover letters.
Academic cover letters vary in length, purpose, content and tone. Each job application requires a new, distinct letter.
For applications that require additional research or teaching statements, there is no point repeating these points in a cover letter – here, one page is enough (brief personal introduction, delighted to apply, please find enclosed X, Y, Z documents).
Other applications ask for a CV and a cover letter only, in which case the letter will need to be longer and require more detail. Others ask explicitly for this detail in the form of a supporting statement that sets out how you fulfil the job criteria. Aim for a maximum length of two pages, though for roles at associate professor level and above it may extend to 3-5 pages. In all cases it is important to use the space effectively and show that you can prioritise according to what they are looking for.
In all cases:
What is a teaching statement and why do you need one.
When making an academic job application, you may be asked for a teaching statement (sometimes referred to as a ‘philosophy of teaching statement’). These statements may also be requested of candidates for grant applications or teaching awards.
A teaching statement is a narrative that describes:
The rationale behind a teaching statement is to:
There is no required content or format for a teaching statement because they are personal in nature, but they are generally 1-2 pages, and written in the first person. The statement will include teaching strategies and methods to help readers ‘see’ you in a lab, lecture hall, or other teaching setting. The teaching statement is, in essence, a writing sample, and should be written with the audience in mind (i.e. the search committee for the institution(s) to which you are applying). This means that, like a cover letter, your teaching statement should be tailored for presentation to different audiences.
Consider your experiences as both teacher and learner, and always keep your subject at the forefront. Consider all opportunities that you have previously had to teach, mentor, or guide, and determine instances that were both successful and perhaps not so successful. Understanding why and how learning happens is an important part of your teaching philosophy.
Here are some general areas to focus on in your teaching statement:
Goals : Convey your teaching goals. What would you like students to get out of your courses? What matters most to you in teaching and why?
Strategies : List effective teaching strategies. How will you realise your goals? What obstacles exist to student learning and how do you help students overcome them?
Evidence : Specific examples of your teaching experience are powerful in a teaching statement. Provide evidence that your students have learned (or not) in the past.
Some applications ask for a short research statement. This is your opportunity to showcase your vision for your research, propose a research plan and show how this builds on your current expertise and achievements. It forms the basis for discussions and your presentation if you are invited for interview.
Remember to:
Read the job description carefully to understand what is prioritised by the recruiting College or institution(s) beyond furthering your research. If there are additional responsibilities such as outreach, mentoring, expanding or fostering academic networks, you will need to provide evidence of your interest and experience in these areas, as well as statements about how you would fulfil these roles when in post.
Try to meet current junior research fellowship (JRF) holders to gain further insight into what the role entails on a daily basis and what is expected by senior colleagues.
Show how your research contributes to, extends and/or maximises the impact of other work going on in the university. Then state why the JRF would enable you to further these in specific ways.
Think about how to demonstrate your experience in the following areas:
Look at Vitae’s Research Developer Framework to identify any other academic-related competencies that you could demonstrate in your application (particularly project-management, leadership, developing innovative partnerships/strategic thinking).
Have your application reviewed by a careers adviser by booking a short discussion appointment on CareerConnect .
Example cover letters.
External websites with guidance and examples.
A growing number of websites offer AI-generated cover letters, either for free or for a fee. There are also numerous organisations offering to write your cover letters for a fee. We believe that if you follow the advice above and come for a (free) cover letter review at the Careers Service as part of a 20-minute 1:1 appointment, you will get the best service for you.
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Sociologist Andrew Whitehead started a Twitter thread some months ago detailing his take on various stages of the academic job market. For the cover letter, he gave excellent advice . He suggested among other things, keeping it at a suggested length (one and a half to two pages) and avoiding jargon. He also stressed the importance of strong lead sentences, using the cover letter to highlight and point to other parts of your application, and controlling the narrative you want to tell .
Others have also written about writing a cover letter. Cheryl E. Ball, for example, provides excellent advice and a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown . Indeed, a simple Google search on “how to write an academic cover letter” brings back 49,600 results if the clause is in quotations, and 526 million results without quotations.
I want to build on the foundational advice of those before me and provide additional insight into the purpose of a cover letter, tips for writing a successful one and what to avoid in it. At the very least, I find having multiple perspectives, styles of writing and exposure to different ways of thinking about the same topic to be useful.
This essay draws on an invited prep talk on how to write a cover letter that I gave at the 2019 American Sociological Association’s annual meeting and on my own experience as a job applicant and as a faculty member on search committees. It’s meant to be helpful for those new on the job market, as the following advice may seem obvious to those who have been in academe for a while.
The first thing that Ph.D. students need to remember about the academic cover letter is its purpose: to introduce who you are as a scholar, what you would bring to the department as a potential colleague and how you fit the requirements listed in the advertisement. The cover letter may be the first thing search committee members see, alongside the CV, so you want to make sure that it captures their attention in a good way.
Here are some tips that I hope you’ll find helpful.
Don’t assume knowledge on the part of the reader. Don’t presuppose that faculty members are reading your application holistically, or that if you mentioned something in a research statement, you won’t have to repeat it in the cover letter. As Whitehead suggests, you should walk your reader through the narrative you want to tell of who you are as a scholar. For example, what is it you study? Are you a scholar of globalization? Social movements? Race? What is the overarching question your research addresses? Even if the content of your publications covers particular topics, and it seems obvious to you who you are as a scholar, you need to specify in your cover letter what it is you study. Take the lead in shaping the narrative of you who are. If you don’t, others will.
Another aspect of not assuming knowledge on the part of the reader means that you need to be explicit, stating what you think is obvious -- because what is obvious to you is not always obvious to the reader. For example, although your dissertation may use qualitative methods, you may be able to teach undergraduate statistics. But you decide not to say in your cover letter that you are able to teach that class because you assume that anyone who has a Ph.D. in sociology could do so. However, that assumption would be incorrect, and the search committee will not know that you can, and want, to teach undergrad statistics unless you say that explicitly in your cover letter and teaching statement.
Tailor your letter. As others, like Karen Kelsky, have written , do your research on the institution and department behind the ad. Take care to understand and communicate how you fit with a given department and how you and your work connect to departmental activities and communities across the college or university. That means elaborating on your approach to teaching for a liberal arts college, for example, and demonstrating what your publications and research can specifically bring to a research university.
Tailoring your letter also means tailoring it to the job ad, remembering to be as explicit as you can about how you fit the listed requirements. If the job ad states that the position is for someone who studies religion, for example, say you study religion. Additionally, show how your broader research agenda ties to religion in some way. My department is currently hiring in organizations and institutions, and successful applicants clearly state they are scholars that study these areas. More important, the most successful applicants demonstrate that they are primarily interested in expanding theoretical knowledge about organizations and institutions more generally, rather than being theoretically interested in a different topic that happens to take place within an organization.
Something I didn’t realize until I was on the faculty side of hiring is that the areas of specialization asked for in the ad, other than those few open hires that call for anyone in any specialization to apply, are often tied to holes in the curriculum. So, for instance, at my institution, an applicant who demonstrates a teaching record related to organizations and institutions is the strongest, while a desire to teach -- with no prior record -- is slightly less ideal but still a potentially strong applicant. Someone who does not explicitly state their experience or their desire to teach in organizations and institutions is not as strong a candidate. The search committee only knows what you write down in your materials, so be sure to mention the obvious!
Write as a potential colleague rather than as a graduate student. When you write about your research, focus on your arguments and contributions rather than simply describing the details of your specific study. That demonstrates you’ve shifted to being a producer of knowledge who knows how your research fits into the broader field. Another way to write as a potential colleague, rather than as a graduate student, is to discuss how you see yourself fitting into, and contributing to, the department, college and university. That means doing your homework and seeing what centers and institutions are on the campus, as well as any workshops, symposia or other events that occur in your department and how you could contribute or add to those ventures. This involves a transition to seeing yourself as someone who is a useful resource that brings something to the academic table.
Write fact-based statements that highlight your accomplishments, including publications, awards, fellowships and teaching. It is not bragging or self-promotion to say that you’ve received an award or fellowship. It’s a statement of fact. For example, saying that you’ve won a teaching or mentoring award is evidence of excellence in teaching or mentoring. That is different than adjective-filled comments that talk about your “passion for teaching,” for example. Fact-based statements that highlight your accomplishments show , rather than tell, the reader of your commitment. Of course, you could still say you are passionate about teaching. Just follow it up with a sentence that provides concrete evidence or data that supports your claim -- such as a teaching award.
Be clear and concise. Write short, declarative sentences. Do not write long, complicated sentences, as your point may get lost in the details.
Here are a few things to avoid when writing a cover letter.
Excessive detail. Don’t try to describe each and every paper you’ve written in the cover letter. Instead, highlight one or two given papers and discuss their arguments and significance. Also, don’t give a detailed description of how your paper fits into the existing literature. That is appropriate for an article but not a cover letter, because it takes up too much space that could be better used to highlight your own accomplishments rather than others’ arguments. To be sure, you can gesture to how it fits into the existing literature, but limit it to just a short sentence or two. You should not write a whole paragraph on the intricacies of the subfield.
Jargon. Similar to what Verena Hutter and Kelsky write, be sure to avoid jargon and clichés . Remember that members of the search committee are likely not in your subfield. Translating your research for a general audience means getting rid of the jargon, or at the very least, defining the jargon you use. While each subfield’s jargon differs, think about whether a certain concept or word is familiar to an educated lay audience. If not, then it is important to try to explain your work without using the jargon.
For example, if you are dedicated to feminist praxis, talk about your commitment to both feminism and putting theory in action in lay terms, and/or define what you mean by “feminist praxis” -- particularly if you are applying to a department other than gender studies or related subfields. That said, avoiding jargon means knowing your audience, as it depends on the discipline and subfield. For example, writing that you are committed to feminist praxis may not be jargon in a gender studies department. In contrast, writing that you are committed to having students discover their “sociological imagination” may be jargon for gender studies but is a taken-for-granted concept across subfields within sociology.
Hyperbole. As previously mentioned, stick to fact-based statements that highlight your accomplishments. Remember you are probably competing with hundreds of applicants, many of whom have competitive records and accomplishments. So saying something such as “I am uniquely qualified to fill the position” is very likely to be untrue.
The three things to avoid that I mention above are common mistakes that signal someone who is still positioning themselves as a grad student, not a colleague, and thus, someone who may not be ready for a faculty job. That is a tricky but extremely important transition to make. It requires walking a delicate line between drawing on and acknowledging the work that senior scholars have done in the field and being confident enough to know you have something to contribute.
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Cover letter greeting: always try to personalize, cover letter introduction: start strong, cover letter middle part (body): make your case, cover letter conclusion and sign-off.
If you’ve decided that an occupation in academia is right for you, you’ll need a well-written academic cover letter to start you down the path. Fortunately, if you’ve faced a master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation before, writing a one-page cover letter should be a walk in the park – if you know the right way to go about it.
That’s where we can help. This academic cover letter writing guide and the examples it provides will describe what you need to know to craft an outstanding application letter, including:
You can find more writing and formatting tips in Resume.io’s 125+ occupation-specific cover letter examples and writing guides.
Proper formatting for an academic cover letter requires good structure, design and layout. Cover letters should almost never be longer than one page, and they must include six essential elements:
Your letter should also look as good as it reads. Here are some of the design choices you need to consider:
For more design advice, see our comprehensive guide on how to write a cover letter.
Below you’ll find adaptable academic cover letter examples that can serve as a framework for your own.
The cover letter header, also known as a letterhead, should be an attractively designed section at the top that includes your name, occupation, mailing address, phone number and email. If you have a LinkedIn profile or another website that highlights your academic or professional achievements, you can include that as well.
The header is your best opportunity to give your letter a stylish design and layout, with thoughtful use of typography and layout and perhaps an accent color. Your letter should look nice at a glance, before anyone even reads the first word, creating a positive visual impression as soon as it’s opened. Check out our cover letter example for more ideas on creating a great header.
“Dear Dr. Hernandez,” “Dear Ms. Starling” and “Dear Mr. Thompson” are all appropriate ways to write a cover letter greeting. “To Whom It May Concern” is not.
Always try to personalize a cover letter by addressing it to the person responsible for processing applications for the job you’re seeking. If you happen to know this person on a first-name basis, then a greeting that uses the first name is also acceptable.
If you don’t know the name of the person you should be writing to, make an effort to find out. If you can’t find that info online, simply call the employer and ask. People like to read their own names, and you’re more likely to get a response to a letter addressed to a person than one addressed to an entire company or department.
If you can’t find the name you need, you’ll have to take a more generic approach, like “Dear University of Florida HR Team” or the like. Some writers take a more casual approach by substituting “Greetings” or even “Hello” for the word “Dear,” which may be fine, but you can’t go wrong with “Dear.” Below you’ll find the greeting from our cover letter example.
Dear Professor Wilkinson,
Your first paragraph, the cover letter introduction, is how you make your first impression, and you want to get off to a strong start. Specify the job you’re seeking, and open with a compelling statement about why you excel in your field.
Cover letters often open with the years of job experience a candidate has. For a career in academia, it may also be a good idea to mention the degree you hold and where you obtained it. Lead with your strengths, and try to fashion a lead that a job recruiter would find irresistible.
Do not open with “I am writing this letter to,” or “Please consider this letter my application for….” There’s no need to make reference to your letter – just write it!
The introduction from our academic cover letter sample appears below.
The academic part-time MBA lecturer role in the business department at University of Miami would be an ideal fit after my move from UCLA and my recent book series commission.
The middle two or three paragraphs of your letter, the body, must build a persuasive case that you are the right person for the job. Go into greater depth on your employment experience and academic credentials.
Be specific about what you’ve achieved in past jobs, or mention any special distinctions received as part of your education. Use facts and figures where possible, and see if you can relate an anecdote about a challenge you once faced in your field and how you surmounted it successively.
It’s also helpful to mention the name of the institution you’re applying to and why you want to work there. Avoid writing a one-size-fits-all cover letter that could be sent to anyone, and personalize it for the employer you’re targeting.
Here’s the body section from our academic cover letter sample:
I taught first-year MBA students a broad range of economics courses for seven years at UCLA. After fifteen years of business leadership in finance and technology, gaining my own MBA at the same institution, I switched to a career in academia and gained my teaching qualifications. Imparting knowledge to the next generation of entrepreneurs is as enjoyable as working on any new product or service. My MBA specializations lie in the supply chain and procurement functions in terms of my practical experience, but I also teach courses on P&L management, forecasting, M&A strategy and all aspects of financial planning. I have published two books and over thirty whitepapers on artificial intelligence in business management and I am about to embark on my third book. I would like to be part of an institution where my students can join me on my exploration of this fast-growing area.
The conclusion, your final paragraph, can serve as a wrap-up and a thank you, but it should also include a call to action urging the recipient to respond. You might say that you’re always reachable at the contact info provided, that you look forward to a reply, and that you would be delighted to be invited for an interview. Plant the thought in the reader’s head that s/he should do something as a result of receiving your letter.
Close with a sign-off like “Sincerely,” “All my best” or the like, then add a space and type your name, as shown in the academic cover letter example below. (There is no need to actually sign the letter in electronic correspondence, although you can add a digital signature if you wish.) See the conclusion from our academic cover letter sample below.
I enclose a sample of my published works and some reviews for my books. I always try to teach with real-world examples at the heart of my lessons and speak at 25+ conferences a year on the latest industry developments. I would welcome the opportunity of an interview to explore the position in more detail. Sincerely, Daniela Banks
The reason for writing a cover letter is to establish a personal connection with a hiring manager. So although this is a formal business letter, it should also be somewhat personal. You may choose to discuss your personal reasons for seeking a new job, and you may want to highlight the inner passions that drove you to your field.
You want to write your letter like a real person – not a robot – so avoid cliches, HR-speak and “fluff,” which is language that sounds fancy but really says nothing. Write in a human, friendly, relatable voice.
Imagine that you are the hiring manager receiving this letter. Would you be interested in meeting the person who wrote it? Your letter should exude both competence and confidence, without ever striking an arrogant or presumptuous tone. Try to come off as both professional and likable, bearing in mind that nobody wants to hire someone they don’t like.
Common mistakes to avoid:
A great looking cover letter is the best way to lure the hiring manager in and make a professional first impression. If you don’t have time to fine-tune your formatting, consider using an expertly-designed cover letter template to make the job quick and easy.
For more ideas about crafting an academic cover letter, review some of our related education cover letter samples:
Best of luck in your academic career!
Written by Chris Banyard
An PhD cover letter is one of the documents you may be required to submit as part of a PhD application . It should complement your academic CV and explain why you are applying. PhD cover letters offer you the chance to write with greater flexibility and personality than in other parts of the PhD application. This page will take you through what a PhD cover letter actually is and how to write one, along with some top tips on what to include (and what not to!).
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What is a cover letter for a phd application.
A PhD cover letter is a counterpart to a CV submitted as part of an application for a PhD programme. It is a short essay addressed to a specific individual and written in prose. It should explain your PhD application in your own words, demonstrating what you can offer and why you should be selected.
There are several reasons why the PhD cover letter is important for university admission. It is an opportunity to:
Many universities require an academic cover letter as part of the PhD application. It is therefore highly likely that you'll have to write at least one. If you're applying for multiple PhD projects then you will need to make sure you tailor your cover letter for each application.
Although there are similarities between a motivation or cover letter and a personal statement , they are different. A cover letter is more functional - it unites and presents your application. A personal statement is more useful for providing detail on your experience, interests and ambitions. If you are submitting both, you may need to keep this in mind and adjust the detail in each.
Although a PhD cover letter is a good place to expand on any research experience and publications you may have, as Bachelors or Masters students you will not be expected to have lots of this.
It’s more important to write with enthusiasm and show your commitment for research. Fortunately, the academic covering letter is an ideal place to show this!
The first thing you should include in your cover or motivation letter is a few introductory sentences . Outline who you are, what you are currently doing, whether it be a Masters or a job, and what PhD position you’re applying for. Make sure to include the PhD project reference number if one is provided in the description.
Next, you’re going to want to explain why you are applying for the PhD position. It’s a good idea to put your best, most compelling, or most relevant argument first. The earlier that you can make an impact, the more likely the addressee will read further.
Make sure you’re to the point and concise. An academic cover letter may be there to help illustrate your personality and passion but academics do not have the time to read elongated essays.
After detailing why you want to apply for the project, you need to explain why you’re eligible . Present you relevant skills and achievements in a brief and precise manner. Additionally, make sure to back up your claims with evidence.
An important tip is to demonstrate that you have done your research about the PhD project, supervisor and department. Be specific about why you would be a good fit for the this project in particular .
You should also detail clear understanding of the potential research impact the PhD project could have, and your enthusiasm for it. But, make sure your passion is routed in some research. Just discovering the unknown or novel may not be a compelling reason to research your subject.
Overall, the academic cover letter should show a clear identity and personality, while remaining professional. You need to demonstrate why you are a better and more interesting candidate than other applicants for a PhD.
The academic cover letter will accompany the CV , and therefore should not repeat anything on it. You should refer to information but not reiterate it.
You should also avoid listing all of your achievements, experience etc. It is better to focus on the best aspects of your PhD application.
There should be no statements presented without evidence. A PhD supervisor will see through this straight away.
Also, an ideal motivation letter should avoid offering too much information. This includes technical information, jargon and abbreviations. Focus on being clear and concise instead.
Lastly, you should avoid any vagueness, arrogance, or negativity. And make sure there are no typos or grammatical mistakes.
The formatting rules for an academic covering letter are very similar to those for a CV. Ensure there is correct spelling and grammar throughout, use consistent and clear font, and get the tone right – this should be enthusiastic and assertive without arrogance.
The cover/motivation letter for a PhD application should be approximately one A4 page in length, or around 500 words. If necessary, it can be a little longer but should not be longer than two pages.
An academic cover letter should have a beginning, middle and end.
The introduction should explain who you are, what you are applying for and how you started this application (i.e. where you heard about the PhD project, or if you have previously met the supervisor). You can also give a brief background about yourself and your research interests.
The main body should cover your skills and achievements as a counterpart to the CV. This should present your convincing argument as to why you should be accepted for a PhD position. You can also present your ideas for your future research.
Finally, the conclusion should explain why you want to study the PhD project and why you are a perfect fit. It should summarise your application as a whole. It can end with a respectful request to take the application further, such as an interview.
A cover letter should be addressed to a named person i.e. “Dear Professor Smith”. For a PhD application, this will usually be the PhD supervisor, but may be a specific person in charge of recruitment.
If you are still unsure who to address the cover letter to, it should be directed to the Head of Department.
Check that you have the correct title for the addressee.
Because the cover letter should be addressed to a named individual, it should be signed off with either “Yours sincerely” or “Kind regards”. Prior to this, it may be worth adding a polite prompt to reply, such as “I look forward to hearing from you”.
Browse PhD listings and filter by topic, location, funding and more.
Chris banyard.
Chris helped expand our student advice content in 2018, whilst working towards a PhD at the University of Sheffield. He shared honest and amusing advice on making mistakes, accidental self-sabotaging and managing rejection during a doctorate as well as reflecting on his own experience skipping a Masters before his PhD.
We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about PhDs, covering course types, applications, funding and the benefits of further study.
Getting ready to apply for a PhD? Our guides explain research proposals, references and entry tests for doctoral programmes.
Understand what a successful PhD research proposal needs to include and how to go about writing one for your project application.
Our guide explains how to contact a potential PhD supervisor to discuss your proposal or ideas with them before applying.
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Cover letter examples
Isabella has outlined her extensive expertise and professional journey in the California cover letter template. With a deep understanding of nutrition, she provides expert guidance to promote health and well-being.
"I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the Lecturer position in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science at London University, as recently advertised on the university’s employment portal. "
Table of contents
If you're an academic seeking guidance on the importance of a cover letter and how to write one, you're in the right place. Having an academic cover letter is a crucial step in your application process. It's your chance to showcase your qualifications, research, and teaching experience and present yourself as a suitable candidate.
This guide will walk you through the key elements of creating a good academic cover letter, offering practical tips and examples to help convey your suitability for the role. Whether you're applying for a faculty position, a research role, or a postdoctoral fellowship , a good cover letter can significantly impact your application, setting you apart from other candidates and capturing the attention of search committees.
Academic cover letter example.
Isabella Bennett, an academic and accomplished professional selected the California cover letter template to showcase her expertise. She seamlessly combines teaching, research, and her education in nutrition and STEM fields, creating an academic cover letter that will get her noticed. Check out the matching academic CV example.
A good academic cover letter, like a good CV , should always include your contact information at the top, similar to the format of a professional business letter. Include your name, location, phone number, and email address.
The introduction of your academic cover letter should be engaging and immediately convey the purpose of your application. Begin by addressing the hiring committee, mentioning the specific position you are applying for, and briefly stating why you are an ideal candidate. This section should be concise and to the point. For more tips, refer to how to start a cover letter.
Academic advisor cover letter example
I am writing to express my interest in the Academic Advisor position at the London School of Business, as advertised. With 5 years of experience in student counselling and a passion for supporting academic success, I am eager to contribute to your institution’s mission of guiding and mentoring students towards their educational goals.
Assistant professor cover letter example
I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor position in Economics at Brightstone University, as advertised. As a recent PhD graduate from Eastford University, with a focus on Macroeconomics, I am eager to bring my passion for economic research and my dedication to teaching and research to your esteemed department.
Lecturer cover letter example
I am writing to express my interest in the Lecturer position in Psychology at London University, as advertised. With 10 years of experience in teaching and research in psychology, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your department’s mission of academic excellence and student engagement
Use the above as a guide for any academic positions, including but not limited to:
Senior Research Fellow
Research Associate
PhD Studentship
Research Assistant
Research Tutor.
For additional examples, explore our extensive collection of cover letter examples.
The body of your cover letter should provide a detailed account of your qualifications, focusing on your research, teaching experience, and any relevant achievements. This section is usually divided into two to three paragraphs, each highlighting different aspects of your professional background.
In my current role at Manchester University, I have successfully advised a diverse student population on academic planning, career development, and personal growth. My strong interpersonal skills and commitment to student advocacy allow me to foster meaningful relationships with students, helping them navigate challenges and make informed decisions. I am impressed by London Business School’s dedication to student excellence. My background in student affairs and counselling aligns well with the needs of your advising team. I am excited about the opportunity to support students and contribute to its vibrant academic community.
During my doctoral studies, I conducted innovative research on economic growth and income inequality, resulting in several publications in renowned journals such as the Journal of Economic Perspectives and Economic Inquiry. My dissertation, “The Dynamics of Income Inequality and Economic Growth in Developing Economies,” received the Eastford University Best Dissertation Award for its significant contributions to the field. I have experience teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, and Econometrics. In my role as a teaching assistant and later as an adjunct lecturer at Eastford University, I developed and delivered comprehensive course materials that fostered a deep understanding of complex economic theories. My ability to engage students and promote critical thinking was consistently reflected in my high student evaluation scores and positive feedback I am particularly drawn to Brightstone University because of its commitment to research excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your department’s academic community through my research, teaching, and service. I am particularly interested in collaborating with faculty members on projects related to economic development and policy analysis, and I am eager to engage with students through mentorship and advising.
In my current role at Greenfield Institute, I have developed and taught courses in cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and research methods, receiving positive feedback from students for my enthusiasm and ability to create an inclusive learning environment. My commitment to student-centred learning and evidence-based teaching practices aligns well with the teaching goals at London University. I am impressed by the University’s dedication to teaching innovation and research excellence and believe my teaching experience and passion for psychology make me a strong candidate for this position. I am eager to bring my skills and dedication to your department and contribute to its academic community.
There is no one-size-fits-all cover letter strategy, but for more tips, check out our article on cover letter structure.
Similar to the above, this section is of equal importance. It should summarise your interest in the position, reiterate your enthusiasm, and thank the committee for considering your application. In addition, consider mentioning any enclosed documents such as your CV, references, or perhaps a separate document for additional publications, and express your willingness to provide further information if need be. For more tips, refer to how to professionally sign off and end a cover letter.
In conclusion, I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining the Department of Biology at Cambridge University. I am confident that my research background, teaching experience, and commitment to community engagement make me a strong candidate for the Assistant Professor position. Thank you for considering my application. I have enclosed my CV, research statement, and teaching philosophy for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further.
Key takeaways .
Customise the letter for the specific job and institution.
Use formal language and maintain a professional tone throughout.
Follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Emphasise relevant qualifications, experiences, and skills.
Provide concrete examples of academic achievements and research contributions.
Explain how your research aligns with the institution’s goals and current projects.
Highlight any teaching experience and your teaching philosophy.
Discuss your future research plans and how they fit within the institution.
Mention why you are interested and how you can contribute to it.
Ensure the letter is free from grammatical and typographical errors.
Next steps?
If you're unsure about the layout or content of your CV, browse our extensive collection of cover letter templates and CV examples for inspiration. Alternatively, you can seek help from a professional through our CV Writing Service , which also offers LinkedIn profile optimisation.
Academic and PhD cover letters are similar but not identical. Both should detail your qualifications and research experience, but a PhD cover letter might focus more on your dissertation work and its relevance to the position. Academic cover letters often address teaching experience and fit with the department.
Begin with a strong opening stating the position you're applying for. Follow with a brief overview of your academic background and research achievements, then align your expertise with the job requirements. Conclude with your enthusiasm for the position and your readiness for an interview.
A good academic cover letter template includes: an introduction specifying the position you're applying for, a brief summary of your qualifications and research interests, a description of how your experience aligns with the job requirements, and a conclusion expressing enthusiasm for the role and your availability for an interview.
In an academic paper cover letter, briefly introduce your paper, its main contributions, and its relevance to the journal. Mention why the paper fits the journal’s scope and highlight any novel aspects. End with your contact information and your hope for a positive review.
An academic cover letter should be no more than two pages long. Aim for clarity and conciseness to make a strong impression without overwhelming the reader. Refer to our guide that delves into the ideal cover letter length .
Yes, a cover letter is crucial in academics as it highlights your suitability for the position, complements your CV, and provides context for your achievements and research interests.
Yes, a cover letter is typically required for academic positions. It provides an opportunity to discuss your qualifications in more detail and explain why you’re a good fit for the role and institution.
Yes, a cover letter is important for research positions. It allows you to explain your research background, how it aligns with the position, and why you are interested in the role, making your application more compelling.
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November 2, 1998
Dr. Naomi Sellers Chair, English Search Committee Box 58 Baxter College Arcadia, WV 24803
Dear Dr. Sellers:
I am writing to apply for the position as assistant professor of English with an emphasis in rhetoric and composition that you advertised in the October MLA Job Information List. I am a graduate student at Prestigious University working on a dissertation under the direction of Professor Prominent Figure. Currently revising the third of five chapters, I expect to complete all work for the Ph.D. by May of 1999. I believe that my teaching and tutoring experience combined with my course work and research background in rhetoric and composition theory make me a strong candidate for the position outlined in your notice.
As my curriculum vitae shows, I have had excellent opportunities to teach a variety of writing courses during my graduate studies, including developmental writing, first-year writing for both native speakers and second language students, advanced writing, and business writing. I have also worked as a teaching mentor for new graduate students, a position that involved instruction in methods of composition teaching, development of course materials, and evaluation of new graduate instructors. Among the most satisfying experiences for me as a teacher has been instructing students on an individual basis as a tutor in our university Writing Lab. Even as a classroom instructor, I find that I always look forward to the individual conferences that I hold with my students several times during the semester because I believe this kind of one-on-one interaction to be essential to their development as writers.
My work in the composition classroom has provided me with the inspiration as well as a kind of laboratory for my dissertation research. My project, The I Has It: Applications of Recent Models of Subjectivity in Composition Theory, examines the shift since the 1960s from expressive models of writing toward now-dominant postmodern conceptions of decentered subjectivity and self-construction through writing. I argue that these more recent theoretical models, while promising, cannot have the liberating effects that are claimed for them without a concomitant reconception of writing pedagogy and the dynamics of the writing classroom. I relate critical readings of theoretical texts to my own pedagogical experiments as a writing teacher, using narratives of classroom successes and failures as the bases for critical reflection on postmodern composition theory. After developing my dissertation into a book manuscript, I plan to continue my work in current composition theory through a critical examination of the rhetoric of technological advancement in the computer-mediated writing classroom.
My interest in the computer classroom has grown out of recent experience teaching composition in that environment. In these courses my students have used computers for writing and turning in notes and essays, communicating with one another and with me, conducting library catalogue research and web research, and creating websites. I have encouraged my students to think and write critically about their experiences with technology, both in my class and elsewhere, even as we have used technology to facilitate our work in the course. Syllabi and other materials for my writing courses can be viewed at my website: http://machine.prestigious.edu/~name. In all of my writing courses I encourage students to become critical readers, thinkers, and writers; my goal is always not only to promote their intellectual engagement with cultural texts of all kinds but also to help them become more discerning readers of and forceful writers about the world around them.
I have included my curriculum vitae and would be happy to send you additional materials such as a dossier of letters of reference, writing samples, teaching evaluations, and past and proposed course syllabi. I will be available to meet with you for an interview at either the MLA or the CCCC convention, or elsewhere at your convenience. I can be reached at my home phone number before December 19; between then and the start of the MLA convention, you can reach me at (123) 456-7890. I thank you for your consideration and look forward to hearing from you.
First Lastname
It’s so satisfying when someone absolutely nails an ending—whether it’s a song that fades out on the perfect key, or an episode of a TV show where the last breath of dialogue changes everything . The same is true for cover letters.
You don’t need your closing paragraph to have a Sixth Sense -level twist that shocks hiring managers and recruiters alike. But an excellent cover letter should keep them thinking about you long after they’ve read it—or at least long enough to schedule an interview.
To help you put together the most effective application package possible, we’ve assembled top tips for finishing a cover letter strong—including six example cover letter conclusions.
Ultimately, the goal of your cover letter conclusion is “to propel the reader to take action,” says Muse coach Kristine Knutter . (That action should be reading the rest of your application and scheduling an interview with you!) How do you achieve this with a single paragraph? By being “bold, enthusiastic, and clear in asserting what they can do for the company,” Knutter says.
These guidelines will help you do just that:
Briefly summarize what you can do for the company, Knutter says. You just spent the last few paragraphs sharing stories that show your most important skills and experiences. Your conclusion should reiterate the key points and explicitly connect them to how you’ll help the company—not introduce new information. Now isn’t the time to bring up that super relevant experience that really seals the deal for your candidacy—that belongs in your cover letter body paragraphs or opening .
So you might start your last paragraph with something like, “Based on the job description, I am confident that my skills, knowledge and required experience are a strong match for this exciting opportunity,” says Muse coach Steven Davis . You could also use this framework to plug in some of your specific skills, knowledge, experiences, and explicitly match them with the exciting opportunity.
Even if you aren’t ultimately selected to move forward, you still want to make sure you’re being as polite and professional as you’d be as an employee. It doesn’t need to be an overwrought gesture of gratitude—that could sound disingenuous or desperate. Davis suggests saying something like, “Thank you in advance for your kind consideration.”
Your closing could be the last thought you leave with the hiring manager before they decide whether or not to call you in for an interview. Think about it: Do you want this thought to be focused on what they can do for you or what you can do for them? Put yourself in the shoes of the hiring manager and you’ll know it’s the latter.
Mention next steps in the application process, like being eager to discuss this job opportunity further or anything else that alludes to an interview, but don’t write as if you assume you’ll be getting an interview.
Do not, under any circumstances, say something like: “I will call your office in a week to schedule an interview.” Muse writer Lily Zhang has no idea where this (threatening) advice originated from, but ending your cover letter like this will not give the impression that you’re a go-getter who takes initiative. It will, however, make you seem egotistical and possibly delusional. This is just not how you get an interview. You want to end by showing that you’re a pulled-together professional, not a demanding child.
Don’t use your conclusion to apologize for “missing” skills or experiences . Especially if you’re early in your career or looking to make a pivot, statements like “Even though I don’t have much product management experience” or “Despite having never managed a team” just shine a spotlight on reasons a hiring manager might skip to the next application. But job descriptions are often a wishlist and not hitting a few of the items on it doesn’t mean you can’t do the work. Focus on the experience you do have, the qualifications you do meet, and the transferable skills you bring to the table.
Read more: 7 Cover Letter Words and Phrases That Are Costing You the Job
Limit your last paragraph to 60 words max, Knutter says.Your entire cover letter should be less than a page , so you should spend as much of that space as possible showing you’re qualified.
Stick to the classic letter and email closings, like regards, sincerely, and respectfully, Knutter says. You can also use your sign off to thank the reader for their time. This is not the time to throw your application in the trash yourself with a “peace out” or “love”–which I’m assuming is the job search equivalent of calling the teacher “Mom.
Want to see this advice in action? Check out these example cover letter endings. Or you can look at the conclusions in our cover letter templates or read more of our cover letter examples.
I look forward to contributing my skills and experiences to the Senior Account Manager position at ZZTopTech and hope to have the opportunity to speak with you further about how I can be an asset to your team.
Respectfully, Peter Thomas
Again GreenWorld Co’s commitment to helping other companies become more eco-friendly and sustainable has helped me believe that there are still ways to help slow the effects of climate change. I’d love to bring my expertise in crafting B2B sales messaging and passion for the environment to your team. Thank you for taking the time to consider me for this role, and I hope to speak with you soon about how I can help you sell your products and services to the large companies that need the most.
Sincerely, Alice Yu
I take the role of executive assistant very seriously and pride myself in learning how to best support each individual I work for so that they can focus on the other parts of their job. My drive, past experiences, and ability to write and speak fluent French would greatly help GoCo and your COO as you expand into the European market and increase travel to Paris and Brussels.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best, Kobe Morris
Thank you so much for considering me for the role of Nurse Educator. My passion for teaching and expertise at breaking down complex topics drew me to my first career as a teacher, while my desire to help people and in the most difficult times of their lives and strength for memorizing policies and facts—as well as technical ability to perform procedures—has helped me thrive as a nurse for the last 10 years. I’d bring both these skills sets to crafting curriculum and training nurses and home health aides at your organization and ultimately help strengthen your workforce and the care your patients receive.
Sincerely, Kathy Ramirez
Through my internship and academic experiences in mechanical engineering, along with my involvement in UVA’s National Championship Robotics team—where the ability to translate theory to real world application and troubleshoot under pressure was really put to the test—I’ve developed design a strong skill set that will add value to City Inc’s product development team. I would be thrilled to speak with you further about how I can contribute. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Respectfully, Sarah Zimmerman
With my strong track record of selling software to small businesses, I think I could be a great addition to Real Company as you expand into this market. I’d welcome the opportunity to learn more about your planned product offerings for this segment and discuss how my expertise might contribute to the development, marketing, or sales of these products.
Best, Asif Hasan
Lily Zhang contributed to this article.
By Status.net Editorial Team on December 12, 2023 — 16 minutes to read
A strong cover letter closing is essential in making a great impression and reinforcing your enthusiasm for the job opportunity. It provides a final opportunity to emphasize your relevant skills, experiences, and personal attributes that make you an ideal candidate. A compelling closing also encourages the employer to take action, such as inviting you for an interview. Consider these examples:
Your cover letter closing is crucial, as it leaves a lasting impression on the employer and influences their perception of you as a candidate. A positive and engaging closing helps you stand out among other applicants and increases your chances of being selected for an interview. Here are a few key points that can create a positive impact:
For example:
Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I am highly enthusiastic about joining your team and discussing my potential contributions to your ongoing projects. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at your earliest convenience.
Summarizing your enthusiasm.
To leave a lasting impression, summarize your enthusiasm for the role in your closing paragraph. Highlight your excitement about the opportunity and express gratitude for the potential connection with the company. For instance:
I’m thrilled about the prospect of joining the (…) team and contributing my marketing skills to drive innovative campaigns. Thank you for considering my application.
Before signing off, reinforce why you’re the perfect candidate for the position. Briefly recap your relevant experience, skills, or accomplishments that set you apart. Be concise yet confident in your message. For example:
With my five years of experience in international sales and my proven ability to develop long-term client relationships, I am confident in my ability to excel as your next Sales Manager.
Professional sign-off options.
Selecting the appropriate closing for your cover letter can leave a lasting impression. Here are some professional sign-off options to consider:
You can also try other options such as Yours truly , Respectfully , or Yours faithfully , depending on your preference and the nature of the job you are applying for.
Try to tailor your sign-off to match the company culture. Researching the company’s website, social media, or reviewing employee testimonials can help you get a better understanding of the company culture. For example:
Proposing the next steps.
A well-crafted cover letter should inspire the reader to take the next step. This could include scheduling an interview, discussing your application further, or even simply reviewing your attached resume. To encourage this action, incorporate a call to action (CTA) at the end of your cover letter that guides the hiring manager.
Some examples of CTAs in the context of cover letters include:
Remember to tailor these examples to your specific application and the company to which you’re applying.
When choosing a closing statement, make sure it matches the overall tone of your cover letter and reflects your personality. Also, take into consideration the company culture and position you’re applying for.
Formal closings.
Proofreading for errors.
Don’t underestimate the power of a well-proofread cover letter. Before sending it off, give it a thorough read-through, and look closely for any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors. Consider using a grammar tool to help catch mistakes you might have missed. Also, ask a friend, family member, or even a professional to review your cover letter. Their fresh perspective can provide valuable insights and catch anything you might have overlooked.
To make your application seamless, double-check your cover letter and resume to ensure consistency. Pay special attention to details such as job titles, dates, and company names, as inconsistencies can raise concerns from potential employers. It’s also a good idea to match the formatting and fonts across both documents to give your application a polished and cohesive look. Make sure the skills and experiences you highlight in your cover letter are complementary to those mentioned in your resume, so they work together to make a strong case for your candidacy.
Email versus hard copy.
When sending your cover letter, you’ll usually have two options: email or hard copy. Each has its benefits and considerations:
It’s crucial to consider the preferences of the employer when deciding which method to use. If they haven’t specified a preference, feel free to choose the one that makes the most sense for you.
No matter how well-written your cover letter is, failing to follow submission guidelines can hurt your chances of being considered for the position. Pay close attention to these key details when preparing your cover letter:
What are some strong closing statements for a cover letter that stand out to employers.
A strong closing statement should reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and demonstrate your confidence in your qualifications. Here are some examples:
To format the closing section of your cover letter, you should:
Both ‘Kind regards’ and ‘Yours sincerely’ are acceptable and professional ways to end a cover letter. You can choose which one you feel most comfortable with or suits your individual style. In general, ‘Kind regards’ is a safe and widely used option, while ‘Yours sincerely’ is considered a bit more formal.
To make your cover letter personal and engaging, try these tips:
Key elements for your academic covering letter .
Your academic covering letter should:
Your CV is there for the employer to refer to for further details, so you should avoid simply repeating your CV again in your covering letter.
In your covering letter, you should argue your case as to why your experience so far makes you a great candidate for that particualr job at that particular university. Here are some tips on what to include in your academic covering letter:
Good luck with your applications!
Mike Simpson 0 Comments
Did you know that 86 percent of executives think cover letters are valuable parts of an application? It’s true. That’s why making sure yours packs a punch is so important, including your cover letter closing.
In many cases, candidates spend most of their time fretting about the main body paragraphs when writing their cover letters, giving little if any thought to how to end a cover letter.
The problem is, your last paragraph and closing sentence make up part of your first impression, playing a big role in whether you land an interview. Is ignoring something so critical a good idea? Of course not.
Luckily, you’re here, and we have your back. Come with us as we explore the ins and outs of how to end a cover letter with style and professionalism.
Alright, before we really dig into how to close a cover letter, let’s take a quick step back and discuss what a cover letter is and what it’s for.
Now, we’ve actually taken a deep dive into how to write a cover letter before, as well as providing some outstanding cover letter examples and helpful cover letter tips . But, as a quick summary, a cover letter is a short, written introduction that supplements your resume. It gives the hiring manager more insights into what you bring to the table, covering points that won’t fit in your resume and giving you some room to showcase your personality.
Technically, every part of your cover letter is important. You want to make sure you address your cover letter properly, nail your introductory paragraph, offer enticing tidbits in the body, and close strong.
In fact, one could argue that your opening and closing paragraphs are the most important. While your opener serves as the initial introduction, your cover letter closing cements your first impression. By nailing it, you can leave the hiring manager with a warm, fuzzy feeling about what you have to offer. That’s powerful stuff.
Alright, but what exactly is your cover letter closing? Well, the closing of your cover letter is typically your final paragraph, as well as your closing sentiment and signature. Each of those sections cements your first impression, so they are all relevant to the equation.
With your final paragraph, you’re wrapping up what you wanted to say, which is why it’s part of the closing. The sentiment before your signature, however, also plays a role. While it may only be a word or two, the words you choose do make an impact, so they are also part of the closing.
And, yes, your signature (and contact details) is also included in the closing. How you present that information does matter, so you want to get it right, too.
What about a postscript (P.S.)? If I have one of those, is it part of the closing? Well, technically, it could be. However, a cover letter really shouldn’t have a postscript. We’ll get into why in a second.
Alright, we know you’re chomping at the bit for an overview of how to close a cover letter and some examples. We promise they are coming. The thing is, we need to tap on something else important before we get there: common cover letter closing mistakes.
As with all parts of your application, certain mistakes in your cover letter can spell doom for your job search. Thankfully, most of them are completely avoidable. As long as you know to watch out for them and to take steps to address them, you’re set.
So, what are some common mistakes when ending a cover letter? Generally, the biggest mistake you can make when in any part of your cover letter has typos. In fact, 58 percent of hiring managers will remove you from contention if your cover letters contain errors. Ouch.
Luckily, avoiding typos is pretty easy. By simply proofreading your cover letter, making use of handy tools like spell and grammar checks, and asking a trusted family member or friend to take a look, you can probably catch any errors and get them fixed before you submit your cover letter.
Another doozy is making your cover letter too generic. Failing to tailor the content – including the cover letter closing – can cost you big, as 36 percent of hiring managers will toss your application if it isn’t personalized for the job you’re trying to land.
How do you avoid a generic cover letter? By using the Tailoring Method when you write. That way, your content will be incredibly relevant to that role. Problem solved!
Additionally, using the wrong tone can be an issue. While you want to come across as confident, it’s also important to be gracious, appreciative, and polite. If you’re too forceful, aggressive, or boastful, that could hurt your chances instead of helping.
Instead, focus on being passionate about what you do, excited about the opportunity, and thankful that the hiring manager took the time to read your cover letter. That way, your closing is powerful and positive, ensuring the final part of this first impression hits the mark.
Alright, the final mistake we’ll tap on is adding a P.S. to your cover letter. While it may seem like a way to stand out or draw attention to a specific sentence, there’s a good chance it’ll backfire. Postscripts tend to look unprofessional.
Plus, it makes it seem like you couldn’t figure out how to get that point to fit into your letter properly, which could put your communication skills into question. In some cases, the hiring manager might even think that you don’t know how document creation software works, causing you to believe that you couldn’t go back and edit the content to fit that point in.
Finally, there’s actually a chance the hiring manager won’t notice the P.S. at the bottom. If you wait until then to say something important, you’re risking it not getting read at all. That’s no good.
So, while a P.S. could stand out, there’s also a really good chance that the move will backfire. As a result, it’s better to fit that detail into the rest of your letter instead of saving it for a postscript.
Here’s what you’ve all been waiting for. To make closing out your next cover letter a breeze, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to end a cover letter.
Generally, the last paragraph of your cover letter should mirror your introductory one. You want to offer a simple summary that showcases why you’re a stellar candidate, touching on the key skills you bring to the table that the hiring manager wants to find.
Now, the trick is, you want to restate what you’ve shared without rehash the exact phrases you used earlier in the cover letter. That way, this part of the letter feels fresh.
After your quick summary, thank the hiring manager for taking the time to consider your application. It’s a small gesture, but it’s nonetheless critical.
Everyone likes to feel appreciated. By adding a thank-you moment into your closing, you’re recognizing that the hiring manager is doing you a favor by reading your cover letter, and that can have a big impact on the tone of your closing.
Next, it’s time to add a bit of confidence and excitement about what the future may hold by letting the hiring manager know you’re looking forward to the next steps. It’s a polite way to reassert your interest in the job, ensuring you plant the right seeds without being too aggressive.
Additionally, when done properly, you can take this part to the next level. It’s another opportunity to mention how you are ready to put a relevant skill to work to help the company achieve a particular goal.
Now, the latter approach should only be used if it feels right with the rest of your cover letter. Additionally, you can’t pull this off unless you’ve done a bit of research (which is something you did before you started writing your cover letter, right?). It only works if you can tap on something specific. If you can’t do that, then opt for a more classic approach.
The closing phrase you choose before adding your signature does matter. Some options are more appropriate than others. For example, while “Sincerely,” “Thank You,” or “Best Regards” are usually safe bets, using “Fondly,” “Love,” or “Warmly” isn’t.
In the end, a cover letter is a type of formal correspondence. That means you need to err on the side of caution and avoid a cover letter closing that feels too casual or personal. By sticking with the business correspondence classics, you’re probably in good shape.
After your closing, you want to list your name, as well as your contact details. Not only does that keep that information conveniently located but, if your cover letter and resume get separated, it guarantees the hiring manager knows the cover letter is yours.
When it comes to contact details, list your email address and phone number at a minimum. If you’re like, you can also include your LinkedIn URL. Just make sure you actually put the URL and not just a link. That way, if the hiring manager prints out your cover letter, they can still reach your profile with ease.
Sometimes, nothing is quite as helpful as an amazing example. With a cover letter closing example, you can see how these critical paragraphs are constructed. Then, you can use them as a framework when you write your own.
Generally, the core strategy for how to close a cover letter remains the same. However, the details change depending on the role and the overall approach. To help you see how to put the tips above into action, here are three cover letter ending examples – based on three different kinds of roles – that you can tweak to meet your needs.
With my customer-oriented mindset and previous experience working in a fast-paced retail environment providing exceptional support, I believe that my capabilities make me a great candidate for this position. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to learning more about the opportunity, as well as any next steps in your hiring process.
[Your Name]
[Phone Number]
[LinkedIn URL]
[Personal Website URL]
Ultimately, I am excited to apply my software development skills and education to a new challenge, and I feel that I can help ABC Company achieve its goals of advancing technology innovations in the industry. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to not only discussing my capabilities with your further but also learning more about this exciting opportunity.
I, like XYZ Corp., feel like people are always a company’s greatest asset. Your company’s mission and values initially attracted me to this position, and I believe that my skills and experience align with not only your broader goals but also the organization’s culture. Thank you for reviewing my application, and I look forward to hearing back from you about this exceptional opportunity.
Best Regards,
Ultimately, you should now have a pretty solid idea of how to end a cover letter with a bang. Take advantage of every tip above as a starting point. Then, really work to tailor your cover letter closing to the job, ensuring that it packs an amazing punch and helps you stand out from other applicants. After all, your closing is part of your first impression. Always make it count.
Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.
His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.
Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .
Mike simpson.
Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .
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How you end your cover letter is an important part of the process.
You’ve managed to make a good impression with your cover letter and now you want to “exit” on a good note with an equally impactful conclusion.
This is where this article comes in.
We’ll show you how to end your cover letter effectively and leave the right impression on the recruiter reading it!
New to cover letter writing? Give our resumes 101 video a watch before diving into the article!
Your cover letter ending consists of your closing paragraph and your signature line.
As your official “parting” from the recruiter, your closing paragraph should be an on-point summary of your cover letter’s highlights and a chance to reaffirm your strong points.
To guide you in the right direction, we’ve put together our favorite tips on how to end a cover letter effectively.
So, let’s see what they’re all about!
First things first—make sure you end your cover letter on a confident note.
All your skills, qualifications, and strengths will lose a bit of their value if you don’t confidently show the recruiter that you can apply them to the company’s benefit.
Say, you mentioned a bunch of noteworthy achievements and skills as you were writing your cover letter . Your cover letter ending is your chance to confidently reiterate them.
For example, you might have mentioned in your cover letter how you helped your previous company exceed its sales target by 30%. That’s an achievement you can use to conclude your cover letter confidently.
For example:
I believe my ability to generate sales and drive results will be a significant contribution to your company’s goals and KPIs.
Another way to effectively end your cover letter is to sum up your top skills.
More specifically, sum up exactly how your skills will bring value to the team or company, or how they are relevant to the position you are applying for.
Here’s an example of how you can do this:
To conclude, I can confidently say that my 5 years of experience as a researcher have made me detail-oriented, patient, and able to connect smaller pieces of information to see the bigger picture. I believe these skills will be of use in this position.
You may be highly qualified and justifiably confident in your skills, but employers also want to see that you will be a motivated and engaged employee.
So, make sure to express your enthusiasm! This will show that you care about this job and that you will put passion and energy into your work if you’re hired.
Employees who are enthusiastic about their work are also far more likely to stay on board long term, which means that you’ve got more chances to get (and stay) hired! It’s no wonder that 71% of executives say that employee engagement is critical to their company’s success .
As such, sometimes, the deciding difference between two equally qualified candidates is just their level of interest and enthusiasm for the position.
Being able to apply all of my skills and previous experience to this project is an ideal and exciting opportunity for me.
Another great way to end your cover letter is by stating your professional goals and giving the recruiter a general idea of what they should expect from you as a potential employee.
This will show that you are proactive and that you have clear objectives for your career.
Keep in mind though—when stating your goals and expectations, focus on mentioning how you’ll contribute to the company and benefit the employer, not just the other way around.
And remember—what can set you apart from other candidates is expressing exactly what connects you to the company (other than just wanting to be hired). This can make your claims more believable and attract recruiters more easily.
Here’s an example of how you can make that work:
My goal is to be counted among the top professionals in the field, not only due to my skills but also because of my appetite for innovation. Your company’s mission to innovate some basic aspects of our daily lives is an inspiration for my work and I’d be happy to contribute my skills to achieve this common mission.
Don’t forget to end the letter with gratitude.
After all, recruiters go through countless applications daily, so just the fact that they took the time to read yours is enough of a reason to be thankful.
Because it is expected that you will say “thank you” (and would be considered rude if you don’t), genuine gratitude is what will make you instantly more likable and win you extra points.
Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I truly appreciate your consideration and hope to have the chance to prove through my dedicated work for your company.
This last piece of advice is quite simple. Keep your cover letter professional. You’ll have plenty of chances to express the more fun side of your character.
There will be plenty of time to express your more “casual” side once you’re hired. At this stage, though, employers want to see that you are professional, reliable, and serious about your work.
So, it’s better to use academic language and a clean, simple style.
Liked the tips we covered in this article? There’s more where that came from! Check out our complete guide with the top 21 cover letter tips .
And now that we covered the best ways to end your cover letter, let’s go over what you should NOT do when you’re writing your cover letter ending.
Want to know what mistakes you should avoid when you’re writing your cover letter? Our guide on cover letter mistakes has all you need to know.
Signing off your cover letter is a pretty straightforward task. All you have to do is use a signature line, followed by your full name. Something like this:
And since “sincerely” has become overused, consider these signature lines to use instead:
You probably know better than to use any of the signature lines below, but we thought to go over them just in case. So, whatever you do, refrain from using any of the following:
Whether you should sign a cover letter depends on how you are sending your cover letter.
Nowadays, most cover letters are sent electronically. If that’s the case with you, there is no need to add an electronic signature.
Simply add your full name at the end of the cover letter, using the same font as the rest of your letter.
If you are sending a good old-fashioned printed cover letter, on the other hand, include the same details and add your signature underneath your name.
Having a matching resume and cover letter is a great way to make a good impression on the hiring manager! We make that super easy for you - just pick one of our matching pairs of resume & cover letter templates and start writing yours!
How you end your cover letter is extremely important. If you manage to get it right, your application will make an impression and most surely earn you a callback.
To make sure you got it right, let’s go over the main points we covered in this article:
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An academic cover letter describes your experiences and interest as a candidate for a specific position. It introduces you to the hiring committee and demonstrates how your academic background fits with the description of the position. ... The end of the letter should reflect the professionalism of the document. There should be a thank-you and ...
Academic Cover Letters. When you're applying for a faculty position with a college or university, the cover letter is your first chance to make a strong impression as a promising researcher and teacher. Below you'll find some strategies for presenting your qualifications effectively in an academic context.
over Letters for Academic PositionsThe purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself and to demonstrate the fit between your ba. advertised position. THE BASICS cover letter must accompany and be ta. lored to any application you submit. STE. letters should not exceed one page. Humanities and social science.
Software engineer cover letter ending example. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your company. I believe my background as a scrum manager and experience with your unique tech stack align perfectly with the company's mission to optimize and expand enterprise applications. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications ...
Academic Cover Letters. Academic cover letters vary in length, purpose, content and tone. Each job application requires a new, distinct letter. For applications that require additional research or teaching statements, there is no point repeating these points in a cover letter - here, one page is enough (brief personal introduction, delighted to apply, please find enclosed X, Y, Z documents).
How to write an academic cover letter. Here are some steps to follow when writing a cover letter for academia: 1. Read the job posting thoroughly. Any academic employer expects you to discuss your teaching history and philosophy, but the amount of detail can depend on the school. If the department asks for a separate teaching philosophy ...
2 3 www.jobs.ac.uk How to Write a over etter for cademi obs Tweet this ebook, share on Facebook, LinkedIn or Google+ The cover letter exists to: •emonstrate your enthusiasm for theD post, based on the research you have done about the role and the institution •our rationale for applying andExplain y how the role fits with your career plans
Others have also written about writing a cover letter. Cheryl E. Ball, for example, provides excellent advice and a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown. Indeed, a simple Google search on "how to write an academic cover letter" brings back 49,600 results if the clause is in quotations, and 526 million results without quotations.
4. End Your Academic Cover Letter Right "Thank you for your time." That's not how to end a cover letter for academic jobs. The department chair will barely see it. Believe it or not, you need to offer something. These academic cover letter examples show the lesson plan: Cover Letter Examples for Academic [Ending]
How to format your cover letter for academic posts. A fill-in-the-blanks template that will produce your academic cover letter within 15 minutes. Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 18+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now. Create your cover letter now.
The first paragraph of a cover letter for academic jobs needs a big, eye-catching fact. Show skills. The middle of your academic covering letter should show you've mastered their most needed skills. Make an offer. Your academic cover letter's ending has to leave them thinking they had better call you soon.
Use this Academic cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast - no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Academic positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes. 4.7.
An academic cover letter should have a beginning, middle and end. The introduction should explain who you are, what you are applying for and how you started this application (i.e. where you heard about the PhD project, or if you have previously met the supervisor).
Here's a list of key academic skills to highlight in your cover letter: Research skills. Involvement with publications or books. Awards and fellowships. Teaching methods. Preparing course materials. Course management system software. Google Drive and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint) Online library databases.
Include your name, location, phone number, and email address. 1. Intro: How to start an academic cover letter. The introduction of your academic cover letter should be engaging and immediately convey the purpose of your application. Begin by addressing the hiring committee, mentioning the specific position you are applying for, and briefly ...
Academic Cover Letter Sample. November 2, 1998. Dear Dr. Sellers: I am writing to apply for the position as assistant professor of English with an emphasis in rhetoric and composition that you advertised in the October MLA Job Information List. I am a graduate student at Prestigious University working on a dissertation under the direction of ...
Limit your last paragraph to 60 words max, Knutter says.Your entire cover letter should be less than a page, so you should spend as much of that space as possible showing you're qualified. 7. Use a smart sign off. Stick to the classic letter and email closings, like regards, sincerely, and respectfully, Knutter says.
A well-crafted cover letter should inspire the reader to take the next step. This could include scheduling an interview, discussing your application further, or even simply reviewing your attached resume. To encourage this action, incorporate a call to action (CTA) at the end of your cover letter that guides the hiring manager.
Jobs.ac.uk have a useful academic cover letter template and an e-book guide on how to write a cover letter for academic jobs. Keep your letter succinct, relevant and enthusiastic in tone. Ensure it complies with formal conventions, e.g. sign off with "Yours sincerely" if it is addressed to a specific individual and "Yours faithfully ...
For example, while "Sincerely," "Thank You," or "Best Regards" are usually safe bets, using "Fondly," "Love," or "Warmly" isn't. In the end, a cover letter is a type of formal correspondence. That means you need to err on the side of caution and avoid a cover letter closing that feels too casual or personal.
A great cover letter closing allows you to capture the attention of a hiring manager and increase your chances of securing an interview. It gives you one final opportunity to express genuine interest in an available job and highlight how you can positively impact the company. ... After you've written an impactful final sentence, end with a ...
4. Use a professional closing salutation. Once you're done writing your cover letter's closing paragraph, you need to politely sign off. It's only a couple of words at most, but your closing salutation is an important part of writing a cover letter. Here are seven professional sign-offs for your cover letter: Sincerely.
Whether you should sign a cover letter depends on how you are sending your cover letter. Nowadays, most cover letters are sent electronically. If that's the case with you, there is no need to add an electronic signature. Simply add your full name at the end of the cover letter, using the same font as the rest of your letter.
You can follow these steps to write a cover letter for an education or academic position: 1. Format the cover letter. The first step to writing your cover letter is choosing a method with which to write and format it. Consider using a word processing programme with a library of cover letter templates, as it can make the formatting process simpler.