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 in
formation 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 in
formation 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 be
fore 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 be
fore your resume. There
fore, 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 in
formation
In printed or digital
cover letter formats, the sender's and receiver's contact in
formation is typically placed at the top of the
cover letter header. However, including your contact in
formation at the bottom, 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 in
formation 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. There
fore, I hope that I can become a part of the team and contribute to the expansion of Beauty Magazine into 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, Roboto, 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 in
formation 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 in
formation) to the left margin.Separate each paragraph with a blank line
for clarity and readability.
Cover Letter Length
Keep your
cover letter concise and in
formative, 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 SmithsVictoria, 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 in
formative 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 into web design and video production. To the best of my knowledge, SamaTech is looking
for part-time assistants in these two fields.
There
fore, 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 Per
formance 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 Per
formance (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 per
formance marketing to your team.
During my
internship, I supported marketing campaigns, analyzed data to gauge campaign effectiveness, and gained a foundational understanding of per
formance 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 plat
forms.
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. Walton600 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 customer-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 automated 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 customer feedback to in
form 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 customer 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 automation 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. Walton
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 in
formation 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 straight
forward 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 into IT from a retail background, emphasize your problem-solving abilities, customer 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 work
force 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 —