A cover letter (sometimes also referred
to as a “letter of motivation” or “job application letter”) is a formal document sent along with your resume or CV. It provides additional information besides what is written in your resume
to express yourself further in a more personal way.
Recruiters can tell a lot about you from your cover letter. Aside from the information you disclose through the content of your cover letter, recruiters can also infer your soft skills, such as how attentive
to detail you are, how good you communicate through written language, and more through how you format your cover letter.
When writing a professional cover letter, you need
to pay attention
to the following elements:
Cover letter format (i.e., structure, header, layout)Cover letter style (block or semi-block)Cover letter line spacingetc.
This article will guide you through everything you need
to know about writing a convincing cover letter. Keep reading for more!
Table of Contents
What Is a Cover Letter and Why Does It Matter?
Mastering the Cover Letter Structure: How
to Write an Effective One
Expert Tips on Formatting Your Cover Letter Professionally
Cover Letter Template Real-Life Examples
Common FAQs about Cover Letter
What Is a Cover Letter and Why Does It Matter?
A cover letter accompanies your resume or CV when you apply for a job as a
tool
to promote or market yourself through written communication
to the recruiter before you meet them face-
to-face. There is a general cover letter format for job applications that you can always follow and never go wrong with. However, it is still essential
to remember that different employers might have different specific requirements for applications. So,
make sure
to read the job posting carefully.
Depending on the requirements, you will need different cover letter formats, such as:
Email cover letter format: Cover letters are written as the email content when sending an application via email.Digital or electronic cover letter format: Cover letters are saved as a DOC or PDF file and sent as email attachments.Printed cover letter format: Cover letters are printed out as a hard copy along with a printed resume
to a mailing address.
Mastering the Cover Letter Structure: How
to Write an Effective One
Recruiters usually will read your cover letter before your resume. Therefore, creating a good first impression with a properly written cover letter format is essential. This part will show you what elements should be included in a proper cover letter format.
1) Date written
The date is a small yet important aspect of the cover letter header format and deserves as much attention as any other detail. Depending on the country you are in, the date format may vary. However, the most common format is [Month] [Day], [Year].
2) Contact information
In printed or digital cover letter formats, the sender's and receiver's contact information is typically placed at the
top of the cover letter header. However, including your contact information at the bot
tom, along with your name and signature, is common for email cover letters. Regardless of the format, ensure you use a professional email address and provide accurate contact details.Cover Letter Example #1 (Send Through Email)Katherine Nguyen(+1)-333-0987 |
[email protected]
Cover Letter Example #2(Printed/Digital Cover Letter)Kevin Nguyen(+1)-333-0977
[email protected]
Cover Letter Example #3(Printed/Digital Cover Letter)Richard JenkinsHead of HR at HHH Company(+1)-992-9922
[email protected]
3) Salutation or opening greeting
You should directly address the person reviewing your application for this position. The person could be the hiring manager or the head of the department.
“Dear” and “Hello” are the safest greetings. They sound friendly yet maintain a professional
tone. If the name of the hiring manager is known, use: “Dear Mr. [Their Name],”. If only the team or department is known, use: “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear [Name of Department] Department Team,”. If the recipient is unknown, use: “Dear Sir/Madam,”.
You might think, "How about using '
To Whom It May Concern'?" Surprisingly, this salutation is no longer considered appropriate for application letters as it is needlessly formal and doesn't directly address a specific person.💡Pro Tip:
To know the hiring manager in charge of the position, you can refer
to the job post uploader or do some research on the company website. You could also ask for a connection that you have in the company (if any).
4) Opening paragraph
The goal of the opening paragraph is
to explain
to the reader who you are and why you're writing this letter.
Think of it as the first introduction about yourself that will immediately grab the hiring manager’s attention and stand out from the crowd. If written boringly, they may never even get
to the second paragraph, and you don’t want that.
Cover Letter Example #3 - Opening ParagraphI am Katherine Nguyen - a registered nurse seeking
to acquire the nurse practitioner position at ENTC Hospital. My 8 years of experience in relevant roles
make me the right fit for this role.
💡Pro Tip:State an accomplishment
to show your confidence, determination, and interest in the position using phrases like “I believe that…”, “I am very interested in…”, “I am writing
to express my strong interest in…”, etc.5) Middle or body paragraph
Here comes the most crucial section for job applications in the cover letter format.
In this part, explain why you think you're qualified for the role in terms of expertise, work experience, and skills. You're selling your candidacy
to the reader, so it's essential
to be as specific and concise as possible. Here are some extra tips
to remember when crafting the body paragraph of your cover letter:
Make strong connections between your qualifications and the job requirements.Use several shorter paragraphs or bullet points instead of one large text block.Avoid repeating all information that’s already mentioned in your resume. You can choose the proudest achievements or most relevant experience you want
to highlight and invite recruiters
to open your resume for further details.
Here's an example of a cover letter body paragraph:
Cover Letter Example #4 - Body ParagraphI have engaged in various industries, including technology, education, and beauty. I am detail-oriented, enthusiastic, and diligent, with nearly 6 years of experience in Content Marketing, SEO Writing, and Social Media Management. My primary job responsibilities include:
Producing SEO-friendly content
to publish on relevant media channels such as the company website, LinkedIn, and Instagram.Conducting keyword research and leveraging SEO practices
to optimize the article writing.Managed multiple social media accounts
to promote the company branding and
products.
In addition, I have a background in Digital Marketing and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and an MBA from Western State University. In terms of language ability, I am a native English speaker with professional working proficiency in Korean and basic French.
6) Closing paragraph
In the closing paragraph of your cover letter, emphasize the value you can bring
to the organization. Additionally, expressing enthusiasm about joining the team can highlight your genuine interest in the role. Don’t forget
to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.
Here’s an example of how
to craft a compelling closing paragraph for your cover letter:
Cover Letter Example #5 - Closing Paragraph
I have had a strong passion for writing since I was little. I've also been a big fan of Beauty Magazine and the impact that it brings
to young girls for many years. Therefore, I hope that I can become a part of the team and contribute
to the expansion of Beauty Magazine in
to the Asian market.
Thank you for taking the time
to review my application. Please let me know if you have any questions. I look forward
to your response.
7) Sign-off
Now, it's time
to finish with a professional sign-off. You can end your cover letter with a formal complimentary closing, followed by your signature. Since you're writing a formal document, avoid using casual language and
tone like “Yours truly,” “With love,” or “Take care.”
For an email/digital cover letter format, you should put your contact info below your signature. For a printed cover letter format,
make sure your signature is handwritten.
Examples of appropriate sign-offs
to use in a standard cover letter format:
Sincerely,Best,Kind regards,Best regards,Best wishes,With gratitude,Respectfully,Cordially,
Expert Tips on Formatting Your Cover Letter ProfessionallyBelow are five key elements
to keep in mind for crafting a well-formatted cover letter:
Font
Just like your CV or resume, it’s important
to choose a professional font for your cover letter.Do'sUse standard fonts such as Arial, Helvetica, Robo
to, Times New Roman, or Verdana.Keep the font size between 10.5 and 12 points for readability.Don'tsAvoid using decorative or fancy fonts that may appear unprofessional and difficult
to read.
Spacing
Proper spacing is crucial for creating a clean and professional layout. It helps employers quickly grasp key information and
makes the cover letter visually appealing.
How
to format spacing correctly:
Leave a blank line between sections (e.g., date, recipient’s address, salutation, body paragraphs, closing, and sign-off).Use business letter spacing, typically 1 or 1.15 line spacing.
Margins Alignment:
Align all text
to the left for a clean and professional look.Use standard margins of 1”
to 1.5” on all four sides. If space is tight, you can slightly adjust the margins but ensure it still looks balanced.
Full Block Format
There are three common letter formats: block, modified block, and semi-block. For cover letters, the full-block format is the most professional and widely preferred.
How
to use full block format:
Align all elements of the letter (e.g., text, dates, recipient information)
to the left margin.Separate each paragraph with a blank line for clarity and readability.
Cover Letter Length
Keep your cover letter concise and informative, ideally between 250–400 words or half a page
to one full page. This ensures it’s thorough yet easy
to read.Cover Letter Template Real-Life Examples
[Your Name]
[Your Address][Your City, State, Zip Code][Your Phone Number][Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name][Company Address][Company City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear Hiring Manager (or [hiring manager's name]),
My name is [your name]. I’m excited
to apply for the [job title] position at [Company Name]. [Short overview of your expertise, skills, and most outstanding accomplishments in the field]. [Explain your interest in this role and briefly explain how it matches your career goals.]
During my [number of years] experience, I worked on [major job responsibilities]. My greatest accomplishments are [relevant past achievements]. These experiences have allowed me
to gain [skills relevant
to the position], which I believe will allow me
to [how you want
to contribute and help the company grow].
In addition
to my experience, I have a solid educational background with a [educational degree] in [major of study]. I’m also a/an [personal trait] individual who is [soft skill #1, soft skill #2, soft skill #3…].
I am confident that the professional experience and skills I’ve obtained in previous positions have prepared me for this opportunity. I would love
to meet you and discuss further on how I might be an asset
to the [name of team, department or company].
I have attached my resume for your reference. Thank you for your consideration and for taking the time
to review my application. I look forward
to hearing from you so we could discuss my contributions further in an interview at your convenience.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Now that you know what a cover letter format for job applications looks like, let’s review these cover letter examples.Graphic
Designer Cover Letter
Marybelle SmithsVic
toria, TX 77979
[email protected](+361)-443-5491
March 18, 2022
Samuel LinHead of Marketing TeamSamaTech Corp.90 Live Oak St., Lilita, TX77971
Dear Samuel,
My name is Marybelle Smiths, a freelance graphic
designer with 5 years of experience in the field. After reviewing your job listing, I'm excited
to be applying for the Graphic
Designer position at SamaTech.My proven experience in various large-scale projects
makes me an ideal candidate for this role.
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media
Design from Texas AM. During my recent 5 years working as a freelancer, I have developed the necessary skills
to deliver informative and eye-catching
designs, including package
design and marketing collateral. I have worked with nearly 30 big clients in the FinTech, beauty, and
tourism industries - not
to mention 80+ small and medium-sized projects in other areas.
The biggest achievement I have obtained is an increase in blog traffic by 145% and shares by 80% by adding my graphics
to the older posts that did not have images. I have received many testimonials from my clients. Please check them out on my LinkedIn and Upwork profiles.
In addition
to graphic
design work, I have also expanded my expertise in
to web
design and video
production.
To the best of my knowledge, SamaTech is looking for part-time assistants in these two fields.
Therefore, my experience and abilities will
make me the right fit for the vacancy at SamaTech. I’d also be able
to develop my skills further should I be hired
to become part of your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if you have any questions. I look forward
to hearing from you and having an opportunity
to interview.
Sincerely,Marybelle SmithsStrategy Analyst Intern Cover Letter
Jane DoeMelbourne 3000
[email protected](+361)-123-456
Jan 18, 2025
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am eager
to apply for the Strategy Analyst Intern position at A. Consulting Firm. I recently graduated with a degree in Business Administration from K. Business School in Singapore, where I developed a strong foundation in strategic thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis.
Although I do not have direct work experience, I have gained practical skills through numerous academic projects and student club activities. As a member of the Economics Student Club, I had the opportunity
to lead and collaborate on projects that required analytical thinking, strategic planning, and effective communication. These experiences have enhanced my problem-solving abilities and helped me develop a strong understanding of business dynamics, which I believe are essential for a successful strategy analyst.
I am eager
to learn and
make a valuable contribution
to A. Consulting Firm and I am eager
to apply my skills while gaining exposure
to the consulting industry. My passion for strategic analysis and my ability
to work well within teams would allow me
to make a positive contribution
to your firm.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward
to the possibility of contributing
to your team.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
Marketing Performance Executive (Fresher) Cover Letter
Shi Yun LinTaipei,
[email protected](+886)-123-456
Jan 18, 2025
Dear Hiring Manager,
Please accept my application for the Marketing Performance (Fresher) position at D. Media Agency. I have a recent degree in marketing from N. University in Taiwan and hands-on experience as a Marketing Intern at H. Fashion, I am excited
to bring my analytical skills, adaptability, and enthusiasm for performance marketing
to your team.
During my internship, I supported marketing campaigns, analyzed data
to gauge campaign effectiveness, and gained a foundational understanding of performance metrics. Working in a fast-paced environment taught me the importance of precision, audience targeting, and agility in the digital landscape. I am proficient in
tools like Google Analytics and Excel and have a growing knowledge of paid advertising platforms.
I am eager
to contribute my skills in data interpretation, campaign optimization, and cross-team collaboration
to the innovative work at D. Media Agency. Thank you for considering my application. I would be grateful for the opportunity
to discuss my application further at your earliest convenience.
Please feel free
to contact me by phone or email at your convenience. I look forward
to the possibility of contributing
to your team’s success.
Warm regards,
Shih Yun, Lin
Product Owner Cover Letter
Tyrell J. Wal
ton600 Euclid AvenueLos Angeles, CA 90017Jan 18, 2025
Dear Hiring Manager,
After considering, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity
to join D. Software Company, by applying for the
Product Owner position. With over 3.5 years of experience as a
Product Marketer, I have a strong background in cus
tomer-centric
product development, market analysis, and cross-functional collaboration, which I believe would enable me
to contribute effectively
to your team. Having worked closely with development teams
to align
product features with market demands, I am eager
to bring this expertise
to a
Product Owner role, particularly in a company focused on au
tomated marketing solutions—an area I am passionate about and deeply experienced in.
In my role as a
Product Marketer at E.Software, I was responsible for guiding
product messaging and strategy, analyzing cus
tomer feedback
to inform feature prioritization, and collaborating with engineering and
design teams
to ensure seamless
product launches. I also hold a Certified Scrum
Product Owner (CSPO), which has equipped me with Agile methodology and backlog management skills
to drive
product success in fast-paced development cycles. Besides, I plan
to complete the Business Analyst course this November
to further optimize my skills as a
Product Owner.
I am highly proficient in using analytics and project management
tools such as Google Analytics, JIRA, and Trello, allowing me
to make data-driven decisions and optimize
product strategies. Additionally, my experience with user research and understanding of cus
tomer pain points has prepared me
to advocate for end-users effectively and align with business goals in my decisions as a
Product Owner.
I am inspired by G. Software Company’s commitment
to innovative marketing au
tomation solutions, and I am confident that my unique blend of marketing and
product experience will be an asset
to your team. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward
to discussing how my background and skills align with your team’s goals.
Sincerely,
Tyrell J. Wal
ton
Financial Analysis Planning (FAP) Cover Letter
Andrew E. Stark4888 Lady Bug DriveColorado Springs, CO 80907
Dear Hiring Manager,
After carefully considering your job posting on LinkedIn, I am writing
to express my interest in the Financial Analysis Planning (FAP) position at M. Investment Pte. Ltd. With over 8 years of experience as a Financial Advisor at
top consulting firms and a recent career break
to focus on my family, I am eager
to re-enter the finance industry, bringing my expertise in financial planning, strategy development, and client advisory
to your team.
In my previous roles, I developed and implemented tailored financial plans for a diverse portfolio of clients, closely collaborating with cross-functional teams
to identify growth opportunities and maximize returns. My responsibilities included financial forecasting, budgeting, and advising clients on strategic investments, all of which have honed my analytical abilities and client-focused approach. I also hold the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), ensuring my knowledge aligns with current industry standards and the requirements for this position.
During my career break, I continued
to stay engaged in the finance field by completing professional development courses and networking within the industry. This has not only refreshed my knowledge but also deepened my passion for financial planning and investment strategy. I am particularly drawn
to M. Investment Company due
to its reputation for innovative financial solutions and commitment
to client success, and I am excited about the opportunity
to contribute
to your team.
I am confident that my background in finance, combined with my dedication
to producing high-quality results, will
make me a strong asset. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward
to the opportunity
to discuss how my experience and skills can support your company in achieving its goals.
Warm regards,
Andrew E. Stark
Common FAQs about Cover Letter
After reading this article, you might still have some questions or concerns. That's perfectly normal, and we’re here
to help! Below, you'll find an FAQ section addressing some of the most common questions people have when crafting their cover letters.
1) How do I write my availability in a cover letter?
When writing your availability in a cover letter, keep it clear and concise. Include this information in the closing paragraph of your letter. Include your availability in the closing paragraph so the employer knows immediately if your timeline aligns with their needs. You might phrase it as "I am ready
to start right away" or "I am prepared
to begin work on (specific date)”. This helps the employer evaluate your fit and demonstrates your straightforward communication skills — an attribute that many companies value.
2) How do I include salary expectations in a cover letter?
If the job posting requests salary expectations, it's best
to address this directly but carefully in your cover letter. A good approach is
to provide a range while also expressing your flexibility. You can mention your expected salary range while expressing your openness
to negotiation.
For example: "Based on my experience and the industry standard, my expected salary is within the range of (amount)
to (amount). However, I am flexible and open
to discussing this further." Employers appreciate when candidates are honest but flexible, indicating a collaborative spirit.
3) How do I sign an electronic cover letter?
Signing an electronic cover letter is simpler than you might think. A simple digital signature will do—just end with "Sincerely," followed by your full name. If you want
to take it a step further, you can add an electronic signature image, but it’s optional. The key is consistency and professionalism. Employers care more about the content of your letter and the impression it leaves, so focus on delivering a strong message rather than worrying
too much about how you sign it.
4) What is the main goal of a cover letter?
Beyond what’s in your resume, the cover letter is a warm
touch – your opportunity
to introduce yourself
to a potential employer. It goes beyond the bullet points of your resume by showing your enthusiasm for the position and highlighting specific skills that
make you the ideal candidate. Think of it as a narrative that ties
together why you’re interested in the job and how your background
makes you a great fit. The cover letter adds depth, allowing you
to explain the "why" behind your application and tailor your message
to the company’s needs — something that can
make a huge difference in competitive job markets.
5) What should a cover letter include?
A good cover letter should include several key elements: an introduction that expresses your interest in the position, a summary of relevant experience or skills, and why you are interested in the company. Finish with a call
to action, like expressing your interest in an interview, and sign off professionally. The letter should also be tailored
to the specific job description, showing that you’ve taken the time
to understand the company’s needs.
6) Are cover letters becoming obsolete?
Not exactly! Cover letters are evolving rather than becoming obsolete. In some industries—such as tech—cover letters might be less common, but in fields like consulting, education, or creative roles, they still hold considerable value. A well-written cover letter can convey your enthusiasm and show that you’re not just mass-applying for jobs. Even if it’s optional, submitting a thoughtful cover letter can
make you stand out in a competitive job market. It’s all about knowing your audience.
7) Do employers read cover letters?
Yes, many employers do read cover letters, especially when they are narrowing down candidates for an interview. A well-crafted cover letter can distinguish you from other applicants and show that you have taken the time
to understand the company’s needs. While some recruiters may focus mainly on your resume, others will appreciate the added context a cover letter provides, especially if it addresses how your experience aligns with their specific challenges.
8) Should I use AI
to write a cover letter?
Using AI
to draft a cover letter can be a helpful starting point, especially if you're unsure where
to begin. AI
tools can generate a structure and suggest content. However,
to make a genuine impact, personalize the draft
to reflect your authentic voice and specific experience. Hiring managers are skilled at spotting generic letters, so adding a personal
touch—highlighting your enthusiasm for the role and how your skills meet the company’s needs—is essential.
9) Should I include a cover letter if the application says "optional"?
If the cover letter is "optional," consider submitting one if you genuinely want the job. A well-written cover letter can show your enthusiasm and provide details that your resume may not fully convey. It's an opportunity
to distinguish yourself from other candidates, especially in competitive markets like Singapore or Taiwan. Unless you're under tight time constraints, submitting a cover letter when optional can only help your chances.
10) What should I write in a cover letter if I don’t have work experience?
If you don’t have work experience, focus on the skills and experiences you do have—such as your education, internships, volunteer work, or relevant projects. Highlight the transferable skills you’ve developed, like teamwork, problem-solving, or leadership, and tie them
to the requirements of the job. Employers are often more interested in your potential and your enthusiasm for the field.
11) What should I write in a cover letter if I’m a career changer?
As a career changer, your cover letter is the perfect place
to explain why you’re making the switch and what
makes you a strong candidate for this new path. Emphasize transferable skills from your previous roles—like communication, problem-solving, or management—that are relevant
to the new industry. Show that you’re enthusiastic about the change, and mention any steps you’ve taken
to bridge the gap, such as courses, certifications, or projects. Explain why you are interested in the new field and how your previous experience brings a unique perspective.
For instance, if you're transitioning in
to IT from a retail background, emphasize your problem-solving abilities, cus
tomer service experience, and adaptability. Show that you've done your homework and convey your enthusiasm for embracing new challenges in this career path.
12) What should I write in a cover letter if I’m a returning parent?
If you’re a returning parent, acknowledge your career break briefly and then quickly shift the focus
to your value as a candidate. Mention the skills you’ve developed during your time away—such as multitasking, organization, and resilience—and relate them
to the position you’re applying for. Many employers appreciate the skills parents develop during their gap. Emphasize your excitement
to rejoin the workforce and how your past experience, paired with your life skills,
makes you an excellent candidate for the role.With Cake, you can easily create a resume online with our online resume builder, free download your resume’s PDF formats, and utilize ATS-compliant templates
to create a resume. Land your dream job, create your resume online (free download) now!Create a Resume— Written by May Luong, Optimized by Andrea Do —