We've got writing tips and a sample you can use to get started.
Why do you need to know how to write a cover letter? Picture this: You've found the perfect job, hit the "apply" button, and started the process with your engines revved and ready. But wait! Slam the brakes!
They want a cover letter.
Don't let this request derail you. This article will show you how to write a cover letter by using our easy-to-follow cover letter template. Here’s what we’ll cover:
We know writing about yourself can be especially tricky, but in order to have a successful job search, you really do need to make a cover letter that sells your skills to a hiring manager. Scroll down to see a free cover letter that you can use to craft your own.
A cover letter is a one-page document that, along with your resume, is sent with your job application. A cover letter is your chance to tell a potential employer why you're the perfect person for the position and how your skills and expertise can add value to the company. The letter should be professional but personable and serve as a sort of introduction.
A lot of job seekers today wonder if a cover letter is still appropriate to send with your resume—and the answer is yes! Even if an employer doesn't ask for a cover letter, it couldn't hurt to send one. In fact, it can help you get someone's attention in a different way, and it can be a great way to display your enthusiasm for the job and company.
These five steps are the basis of how to write a cover letter:
We’ll show you how to write a cover letter, section by section.
Begin by including both your and the employer’s contact information in your header, along with the date.
Sample Cover Letter Header:
Your First and Last Name
Your City, State and Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email
Date
First and Last Name of Hiring Manager
Hiring Manager’s Job Title
Company Name
Company’s Address
The salutation is very important. If you know the hiring manager’s name, definitely use it. If not, do some research on LinkedIn or the company’s website to find it, or just address the letter to the hiring manager. Avoid the cliché “To Whom It May Concern.”
Sample Cover Letter Greetings:
The hardest part of the cover letter-writing process is knowing how to start a cover letter. Your cover letter introduction needs to grab the hiring manager’s attention, so they want to keep reading.
Sample Cover Letter Introduction:
“I am writing to you today to apply to the Sales Representative position in your Stamford office. I’ve been a long-time fan of your ultralight camping stoves, and I admire your dedication to creating lightweight backpacking cookware that doesn’t compromise on quality. Last year, I earned $2 million in sales (exceeding my sales goal by 30%) and landed the top sales award in my company’s national organization. I live for the thrill of a good sale and am looking forward to possibly contributing my sales savvy to your company.”
In the next paragraph or two, describe who you are and what makes you stand out from other applicants. Refer to the job ad for clues for how to write a cover letter for the specific position you’re applying to. Focus on the key skills and responsibilities the ad is targeting and let that guide which qualifications you highlight.
Discuss your soft skills and strengths and what you're passionate about professionally. Then, provide relevant examples of work you’ve done that matches what the company is looking for. Bullet points work well in making your accomplishments easy to read.
Sample Cover Letter Body:
“As a project coordinator at ABC Company, I was responsible for overseeing projects across all departments. Specifically, I:
I am organized, efficient, and skilled at distilling a big idea down to a set of concrete, actionable steps. My ability to communicate with stakeholders across departments allows me unique insight into how a company functions and how to bridge gaps between teams to reach consensus and accomplish ambitious goals.”
In your closing paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and an interview and include a plan of action. State what the next steps will be. If you will wait for the company’s reply, tell them that. If you will be following up, tell them when they can expect to hear from you. Above all, your conclusion should be formal and appreciative.
Sample Cover Letter Conclusion:
“Thank you for your time and consideration. I would love to set up a time to talk about how my hiring, recruiting, and retention strategies will help your company to drive DEI. I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon. You can reach me on my cell phone at (555) 555-5555 or via email at name@email.com.”
End your cover letter with a formal closing.
Common Cover Letter Signoffs:
Almost ready to get started? Here are some quick do’s and don’ts for how to write a cover letter.
Need even more confidence before you start your cover letter? Below are some additional tips for how to write a cover letter you could reference—or keep scrolling for a cover letter sample:
Cover Letter Mistakes You Should Avoid: From overusing "I" to being too vague, there are a bunch of pitfalls that can trip you up. Don't let them!
Cover Letter Format and Advice Tips: Learn how to set up your cover letter and what each section should include.
How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience: You might lack real-world work experience, but your cover letter can be chock-full of activities that demonstrate your potential to succeed.
Cover Letter Tips for Technology Professionals: The ease of applying to online jobs has led many IT professionals to skip sending a cover letter, but that's a mistake.
Cover Letter Tips for Finance Professionals: If you're searching for a finance job or want to be prepared just in case, you will need a dynamic cover letter to grab the hiring managers' attention.
Tips for Better Email Cover Letters: If you're emailing a resume, your cover letter will deliver the first impression. These eight tips will help you craft a better email cover letter.
Check out the sample cover letter below (or download the cover letter template as a Word doc) to get some inspiration to show you how to write a cover letter for your particular situation.
[Date]
Ms. Rhonda West
Customer Service Manager
Acme Inc.
123 Corporate Blvd.
Sometown, CO 50802
Re: Customer Service Representative Opening (Ref. ID: CS300-Denver)
Dear Ms. West:
I was excited to see your opening for a customer service rep, and I hope to be invited for an interview.
My background includes serving as a customer service associate within both call-center and retail environments. Most recently, I worked on the customer service desk for Discount-Mart, where my responsibilities included handling customer merchandise returns, issuing refunds/store credits, flagging damaged merchandise for shipment back to vendors and providing back-up cashiering during busy periods.
Previously, I worked within two high-volume customer-support call centers for a major telecommunications carrier and a satellite television services provider. In these positions, I demonstrated the ability to resolve a variety of issues and complaints (such as billing disputes, service interruptions or cutoffs, repair technician delays/no-shows and equipment malfunctions). I consistently met my call-volume goals, handling an average of 56 to 60 calls per day.
In addition to this experience, I gained considerable customer service skills during my part-time employment as a waitress and restaurant hostess while in high school.
I also bring to the table strong computer proficiencies in MS Word, MS Excel and CRM database applications and a year of college (business major). Please see the accompanying resume for details of my experience and education.
I am confident that I can offer you the customer service, communication and problem-solving skills you are seeking. Feel free to call me at 555-555-5555 (home) or 555-555-5500 (cell) to arrange an interview. Thank you for your time—I look forward to learning more about this opportunity!
Sincerely,
Sue Ling
Enclosure: Resume
Want to see more cover letter examples? We’ve got you covered if you're looking for a cover letter in a specific industry. Or, take a look at some of our most popular cover letters below:
Now that you know how to write a cover letter, you'll want to make sure your resume is just as impressive. Ready to get started? Get a free resume assessment from Jobpress to double-check that your application is as strong as possible. We'll give your resume a professional overview and tell you where you need to make some improvements. It's quick and easy, and your career will thank you.
Th03 19, 2024 
2 phút để đọc