Cover Letter Templates

The cover letter is the best way to reinforce your resume example, captivate recruiting managers, and start receiving calls for interviews.

 

lettre de motivation

A resume shows your professionalism and experience, but on its own, it doesn’t necessarily express what a great match you are or your desire to work for the company.

A resume alone isn’t enough to convince the hiring manager to interview you. A cover letter can play a crucial role in job applications, so you must include one if you want your application to stand out.

There are many applicants out there just like you. They might have similar skills, experiences, educational backgrounds, and achievements. Most applicants wouldn’t have the chance to speak with hiring managers or recruiters before an interview. Therefore, it is important to make a great first impression. You can do this by writing an impressive cover letter.

Your cover letter should be professional yet interesting. Do not bore the hiring manager with an extremely long letter. Grasp their attention from the very opening of your cover letter and keep them reading until the end. Convince them that they have to look at your resume and call you for an interview. Let your personality shine through!

You just have to make sure that your cover letter is an answer to the job description. It should support your resume. Your cover letter should convince the hiring manager to look at your resume and call you for an interview.

Our designs

We recommend you take a look at our cover letter template designs we have prepared. Find out which one works best with your profile.

4 Examples of Cover Letters

What are the different types of cover letters? Let us show you 4 types of cover letters we have prepared for you because the approach changes depending on the applicant’s circumstances.

A student with no experience cannot have the same cover letter approach as someone with a 7-year career. So the message must adapt if the profile requires it to.

Here are some examples of cover letters for different profiles.

1. College student cover letter


Marvin Lopez
Graphic Design Student
marvinlopez@outlook.com
+1-123-123-1234
Portfolio: marvinlopezartwork.com

To:
Regina Heart
Head of Recruitment
ABC Digital Design Co.

Orlando, FL

July 20, 2021

Dear Regina Heart,

I am Marvin Lopez, a graphic design student at the Orlando Art University, class of 2021.

I am writing you today to express my interest in joining ABC Digital Design Co.’s internship program. I have constantly followed your company’s work for years. Many times, your projects served as my inspiration to continue pursuing a graphic design degree.

My specialties include logo creation, poster design, and packaging design. The tools I use include Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW, and many others. I have participated in multiple art competitions in the university and have recently won first place for Best Corporate Newsletter Design in 2021.

It would be an honor for me to have the opportunity to learn first-hand from your graphic design team and be of any assistance to your company.

Thank you for your time reading my application. I would be delighted to meet with you to discuss further steps I have already taken in this profession.

Sincerely,

Marvin Lopez

2. Manager’s cover letter


Celine Frank
Sales Manager
celinefrank@outlook.com
+1-123-123-1234
LinkedIn: Celine Frank

To:
Frances Cruz
Head of Recruitment
XYZ Automobile
Sacramento, CA

July 20, 2021

Miss Frances Cruz:

I am Celine Frank, an experienced automobile sales manager with over 7 years of experience in the industry. This is to express my desire in being part of XYZ Automobile’s sales department as a sales manager.

I have been a sales manager for ABC Auto Sales for the last 5 years. My responsibilities include managing VIP client accounts and a team of junior sales managers and sales associates. I specialize in SUV, pick-up truck, van, and large truck sales and was awarded sales manager of the year for three consecutive years. My team has reached 140% of our 2020 sales quota.

My extensive knowledge in large automobiles and experience managing clients from all walks of life enabled me to become a top sales manager with impressive customer satisfaction results. My skills also include leadership, problem-solving, budget preparation, and project management.

My admiration for XYZ Automobile dates to my junior years as an automobile sales associate. I have always wanted to pursue a career with your company because of your brand, company values, and vision, which align with my personal beliefs and career goals.

I have attached my resume which includes more details about my work history, educational background, training, and achievements.

I appreciate you taking the time to read my application. I am available for an interview at a time most convenient to you so we can discuss the details further.

Sincerely,
Celine Frank

3. Career transition cover letter


Maureen Banks
Customer Service Specialist
maureenbanks@outlook.com
+1-123-123-1234
LinkedIn: MaureenBanks

To:
Tyler Martin
Head of Recruitment
Central Technology Inc.
Phoenix, AZ

July 20, 2021

Dear Tyler Martin:

I am Maureen Banks, a customer service specialist at Zeus Tech Co. for 3 years. I have successfully provided outstanding customer support to our company’s customers and clients via e-mail, chat, phone, and in-person. I have received multiple awards and achievements in our department including the prestigious Customer Service Specialist of the Year in 2020.

My professional career as a customer service specialist was a great training ground for me to become meticulous, attentive, and highly professional at all times. These are only some of the many qualities that will make me a great Executive Assistant at Central Technology Inc.

I have handled multiple VIP accounts over the years and have always received 100% quality scores for customer satisfaction. I have also acquired technical skills such as project management, customer account handling, email and phone handling, social media management, and more that can be useful as an executive assistant.

Working with Zeus Tech Co. has always been my personal career goal. I admire your company’s values and vision as they are very similar to mine. It would be an honor to assist your company’s executives.

Thank you for the time you have invested in reading my application. My resume is attached to this letter for your viewing and I would be delighted to meet with you for an interview to discuss how I could apply my skills with your company.

Sincerely,
Maureen Banks

4. Self-candidacy cover letter


Ben E. Queen
Digital Marketing Specialist
benqueen@outlook.com
+1-123-123-1234
LinkedIn: Ben E. Queen

To:
Diana Browning
Head of Recruitment
Crystal Communications
Dallas, TX

July 20, 2021

Diana Browning:

I am Ben E. Queen, a digital marketing specialist with 6 years of experience in SEO, WordPress optimization, lead generation, email marketing, social media management, paid advertisements, and link building. I have been working with Clear Communications Co. for over 3 years now as a digital marketing team leader.

I understand that there is currently no advertised vacancy in your digital marketing department at Crystal Communications, but I would like to offer my candidacy should a position become available. I am sharing with you my resume so that you may take it into account in your future selection.

Having started as a marketing associate and getting promoted as a digital marketing team leader enabled me to gain skills and strengths over the years. I have worked with my team to increase the Clear Communications Co. sales by 110% and our customer satisfaction rates by 120%.

I am Google Ads Certified, SEMrush SEO Certified, and have also gained training certificates from Yoast, Ahrefs, Hubspot, and Hootsuite. In addition, my content writing skills enabled me to become a published writer for several large platforms including Medium and HubPages.

It would be an honor to become a candidate for the Crystal Communications digital marketing department when a vacancy comes up. My resume is attached and I would be glad to discuss my professional profile in detail in an interview at your most convenient time. Thank you for taking the time to read my application.

Cordially,
Ben E. Queen

What is a cover letter? (And why is it so important?)

A cover letter is typically a one-page document attached to a resume when submitting an employment application. Many applicants mistakenly believe a cover letter is not necessarily required, however it is actually crucial in presenting your application to the recruiter.

While most applicants believe the resume is the only important document for every application, actually the cover letter is equally important. The cover letter complements your resume and gets you one step closer to your dream job.

Your qualifications and skills are already written on your resume, but your cover letter provides another opportunity for you to stand out among other applicants and impress hiring managers even before getting interviewed.

Simply explained, your cover letter provides the hiring manager with an overview of your resume’s contents. At the same time, it can be a chance for you to introduce and sell yourself further. This letter must be convincing enough to show your potential employer that you are worth being interviewed and eventually getting hired.

Tip: Your cover letter goes hand-in-hand with your resume. It does not replace your resume. It complements it.

Lauren Nelson, a communications specialist and Aesthetics Cogency VP writes that a detailed and well-crafted resume alone doesn’t prove that an applicant is impressive enough to get interviewed. She believes a well-written cover letter plays a more important role in an application because it can show an applicant’s attention to detail and work ethic. “It provides glimpses into your personality that a list of achievements can’t,” Nelson adds.

Bonus Tip: Most recruiters read an applicant’s cover letter even before taking a look at their resume. If the cover letter is convincing or impressive enough, they will then check your resume to see if you are worth interviewing.

How to write a perfect cover letter in 5 steps.

Especially for applicants who don’t consider themselves to have good writing skills, crafting a cover letter might seem like a very challenging task. Some applicants would even skip writing a cover letter altogether simply because they find it inconvenient or just too difficult.

However, preparing a cover letter to attach to your resume is not as difficult as it seems. Allow us to share with you a simple step-by-step procedure that you can keep in mind. Before you know it, you’re done writing an impressive cover letter!

Step 1 – Choose the right template for your cover letter.

Most applicants are under the impression that they would have to write their cover letter from scratch. This is why many would just skip writing a cover letter, especially when they feel like they’re not skilled enough in writing letters.

Thankfully, there are now cover letter templates that you can now use to speed up and make the process so much easier. You must, however, make sure that you’re choosing the right cover letter to match your resume and the position you are applying for. Select one that looks professional yet attractive at the same time.

Choose a cover letter template that complements your resume. It should fit your profile and the message you want the hiring managers or recruiters to receive. Since your cover letter and resume go together, ideally, your cover letter’s appearance matches the overall look of your resume.

Tip: Understandably, you want to grab the attention of recruiters and you want your application to stand out. However, you must remember that the content of your cover letter is more important than an overly creative or extravagant appearance. Choose the cover letter template wisely. It is safe to assume that going for a professional-looking template is the right way.

Step 2 – Start your cover letter with your title

Just the same as with your resume, you need to begin your cover letter with a title or header. The title section includes your name, title, and contact information. Make sure all these are clear, easy to read, and accurate. You want the hiring manager to know how to reach out to you even without having to look up your details on your resume.

The title section of your resume should include the following information.

  • Your first and last name
  • Profession, occupation, or position
  • Contact details: Include your email address, contact number, portfolio or website, and LinkedIn profile, if available
  • The name of the hiring manager and his or her professional title
  • The company name
  • The date you’re sending out the cover letter

Use this cover letter template as a guide when writing the best cover letter header.

Tip: Make sure you are writing the company name you’re applying for on your cover letter. Also, if you don’t have the information yet, find out the name of the hiring manager as well as the correct position title. This is a great way to customize your cover letter. It shows your genuine interest not only in the job, but also in the institution or company you want to work in.

Step 3 – Personalize the greeting

Generic cover letters might appear formal and professional enough, but submitting one can immediately take away all chances of getting interviewed for the job.

For one, these hiring managers receive tons of applications daily. A generic cover letter will most likely be just like any other cover letter they have received already.

This is your chance to stand out. So make sure that you are customizing and personalizing your cover letter every chance you get.

Note: You must do your best to find out and include the name of the recruiter or hiring manager on your cover letter. Human resources personnel will appreciate the fact that you have given time to include their name as it is a sign of respect. It might seem like such a small detail, but it will definitely add some bonus points to your application.

Remember three things when writing the perfect greeting or salutation on your resume – formal, respectful, and simple. You don’t have to be old-fashioned or out of style by being way too professional or formal, but you still want to show how respectful you are.

Recruiters and hiring managers feel a sense of importance when you include their name and position. Even before you get interviewed, there will be some form of connection between you and the hiring manager as you have already addressed them by name.

Here’s a good example of a formal greeting:

Dear Danielle Smith, Human Resources Manager.

This greeting is formal and professional. It is respectful yet warm without having to sound old-fashioned. It also includes the name and position title of the hiring manager, which shows that you took the time to customize your cover letter.

You might be getting the opposite effect if you will be using it for a salutation such as this:

Distinguished, honorable, and Dear Sir/Madam:

It appears very exaggerated, right? It sounds impersonal and insincere. It isn’t something one would usually say out loud especially during interviews or a simple conversation. The lack of personalization further shows that you might know some nice words, but you didn’t really take time to research and find out at least the name of the hiring manager.

While it might not have any negative effect on your application, this type of salutation will likely not have any positive effect either during the application selection process of the hiring manager.

Recommended phrases for the salutation

  • Dear Danielle Smith, Human Resources Manager
  • Miss Danielle Smith, Human Resources Manager
  • Dear Danielle Smith, Head of Recruitment
  • Danielle Smith, Head of Personnel Recruitment

Non-recommended phrases for the salutation

  • Dear Sir
  • Dear Miss
  • Distinguished gentleman
  • Honorable Madam
  • Who reads
  • To whom it may concern

Tip: There might be instances when even if you try, you won’t be able to get the name of the hiring manager. Some companies would specifically instruct not to address the cover letter to a specific person. If this is the case, then you may use: Attention: Hiring Manager or To the Human Resources Department or even better: Hiring Manager for the position of Customer Service Manager.

How to find the right name and person?

We’ve mentioned several times that it is important to include the name and position of the hiring manager or recruiter on your cover letter. So how exactly do you do this?

Many times, a job post or ad does not include the name of the hiring manager or head of recruitment in the description. This is, however, something that you can find out on your own.

Here are some ways to find out the name of the right person to address your cover letter to.

  • Look for the company’s head of recruitment on LinkedIn.
  • Utilize Google as much as you can. More often than not, the name of the company’s head of recruitment will appear somewhere on Google.
  • You can also fill up the company’s website’s contact form to get the information you need. You may also inquire on the company’s social media accounts.
  • Call the company and ask who the head of recruitment is.
  • If you have a friend or acquaintance working in the same company, ask them for the information.

If these strategies fail, you can use the following greeting options instead:

  • To the Human Resources Department
  • To the Hiring Manager for the position of Regional Sales Manager
  • Dear Recruitment Manager

Step 4 – Write an introduction that grabs attention at first glance

Your cover letter is the very first chance you get to introduce yourself to your potential future employer, so make sure you make it count. However, as we mentioned earlier, recruiters and hiring managers receive a lot of applications. Many of them probably won’t even read entire cover letters, especially those that look completely generic.

Think of it as having a couple of seconds to grab the hiring manager’s attention. The very first few lines of your cover letter should already spark interest and must have a positive impact on recruiters. Make them want to read the rest of your cover letter and flip through your resume, too.

Here are some quick tips that will help you start writing the perfect cover letter introduction.

  • Write a brief introduction about yourself. Let the recruiter know who you are and what you do.
  • Specify the position you are applying for and make this clear right from the very start.
  • Summarize your qualifications or your selling points. Let them know why you are the right person for the job.
  • Include some of your most important achievements and best skills that are relevant to the position.

Tip: The introduction should include details about yourself and the purpose of the letter. It is best to go straight to the point without leaving out any of the important details we have mentioned above. Only write information that is relevant to the job post.

Correct example

You don’t need to write something extraordinary in your introduction to grab the recruiter’s attention. It would be best to include information that is relevant to the job description. Showing that you are qualified and that you paid attention to their job description’s details can already help spark interest. You get their attention when, at the very introduction itself, you are already letting them know that you are the right person to interview.

Here’s a great example of a cover letter introduction:

CORRECT

I am Vanessa Curry, a digital marketing specialist focusing on social media and paid advertising management. I have over 7 years of professional experience and would like to continue nurturing my career at ABC Digital Marketing Co. as a senior digital marketing specialist.

I have been working as the senior digital marketing specialist of XYZ Productions for the last 5 years. I managed the company’s social media accounts, Google Ads, and PPC platforms. The company’s Facebook page engagement increased by 250% within the first month and has consistently increased since then. The paid advertisements I managed have resulted in a 150% lead increase and 90% sales increase. I want to help boost ABC Digital Marketing Co.’s social media presence and strengthen lead generation efforts with effective paid advertisement management.

This introduction works very well for cover letters as it includes all the important details:

  • A brief professional introduction including a work background
  • The name of the company and the position applied for
  • Experience, skills, and accomplishments of the applicant

Incorrect example

Below is an example of a cover letter introduction that will likely not get you the same kind of reaction you would have compared to the correct example above.

INCORRECT

Hi, I am Vanessa Curry. I’m a digital marketing specialist. I have been working with XYZ productions for 5 years and the job responsibilities I am ideal for the job opening at ABC Digital Marketing Co. I have always had great results and promise to do even better when you hire me in your company.

Aside from the fact that the above example is not exactly well-written, it also fails to include several details that many recruiters would rather see on a cover letter such as:

  • The position applied for
  • Relevant skills, qualifications, and accomplishments
  • Personalization – the above example looks very generic

Step 5 – Explain why you are the right person for the job.

If you followed the above tips when writing your introduction, then you now have the hiring manager’s attention. Make sure you continue grasping his or her attention at this point as you explain in detail why you’re the right person for the job.

While you have already summarized your qualifications in the introduction, now’s the time for you to impress your potential employer further by including specifics. Here’s where you should write about your professional skills and characteristics that make you the perfect person to get the position.

You might have so many skills and achievements, but you have to focus on the job description when writing your cover letter. Your resume includes more details anyway. So explain the top skills you have that make you most qualified for the job.

Remember to focus on the job requirements while writing this section while being as truthful as possible.

Here are some more tips to keep in mind while writing this section of your cover letter:

  • Read the job description thoroughly so you know which skills, characteristics, and qualifications you need to focus on.
  • Connect your skills and abilities to the requirements of the job.
  • Show interest in helping the company drive results.
  • Begin with a strong statement or message.

Remember: While the introduction offers your professional background, this section will let the recruiter dig deeper about you and your capabilities. Let your professionalism and great personality shine through in this section.

Correct example

Once again, check the job description when writing this section. Especially if you have a lot of skills and work experience, it can get tempting to write them all here so you can impress your potential employer. You have your resume for all that information. In this section, make sure you’re only including your capabilities and experiences that are relevant to the job description.

CORRECT

My deep understanding of digital marketing enables me to adjust to the constant changes in the algorithms of Google and all major social network platforms. I have developed creative processes and strategies that allow me to get the results the company needs. Among the tools I use are SEMrush, Ad Badger, Bing Ads Editor, Google Ads Editor, Google Keyboard Planner, Google Trends, AdEspresso, and more.

With every ad creation and optimization, I keep the company’s image, values, and brand in mind. I also strive to be innovative when using tools and resources to help maximize the company’s online marketing budget.

Here are some reasons this example works:

  • It shows dominance and knowledge in a specific niche or industry.
  • It emphasizes skills and experience.
  • Since it includes specific tools and responsibilities for the position applied for, it shows genuine interest in the job and the company.

Incorrect example

Avoid using the below example as it lacks sincerity and a sense of expertise.

INCORRECT

I believe I am the right person to do this job for you as I have all the skills and qualifications you mentioned in your job ad. Also, all the experiences I’ve had in the companies I’ve worked are very similar to the responsibilities this position you have open indicate. I like your company and your brand and I will try my best to deliver all of the position’s demands.

Nothing about the above example is specific. In fact, it looks very generic and non-personalized. It looks like a cover letter that can be printed multiple times and submitted to multiple companies. It also doesn’t include some vital details such as:

  • Knowledge and strengths
  • Emphasis on career path
  • Strategies, work method, or achievements

Tip: Do not use words like “believe” or “try” because these show your lack of confidence. If you truly believe you can do something for the company, just say you can do it confidently.

Summarize in a call to action.

This is the final paragraph of your cover letter so make sure you’re closing it with a bang. Keep the interest and attention of the hiring manager and make your closing summary convincing enough to compel them to call you for an interview.

Before you say goodbye, make sure you’re thanking the reader for taking the time and letting them know that you would appreciate a response – that response would be an appointment for an interview, of course.

Correct example

Remain professional, courteous, friendly, and most importantly, respectful when writing the closing section. The call to action means you want to urge them to give you a positive response. Here’s an example.

CORRECT

I appreciate your time reading my application. I would be delighted if you would give me the opportunity to discuss how I can replicate my achievements and results for your company in detail. I am available for an interview at your most convenient time.

Tip: Do not oblige the hiring manager to schedule an interview for you based on your availability. You should be able to adjust your schedule for them. But be sure that you clearly state your intention to discuss your application through an interview.

Say goodbye with the correct formatting

Formally close your cover letter with the right format. Keep it simple, straightforward, and respectful. While there are plenty of creative ways to close a letter, a cover letter is better off professional so don’t keep it cluttered.

You can use the following closing phrases to say goodbye:

  • Sincerely,
  • Thank you,
  • Cordially,
  • Yours truly,
  • Regards,

Followed by your first and last name

Checklist of your cover letter

Do you want to make sure your cover letter is written correctly? It is the first chance you will get to convince hiring managers that you are qualified for a position in their company so it is important to get it right.

Make sure that your cover letter is written properly and correctly by going through this checklist:

Your header should include accurate, updated, and clear essential information:

  • Name and surname
  • Profession, occupation, or position title
  • Professional email
  • Contact number
  • Social networks or relevant websites (Optional)
  • Name and address of the letter recipient
  • Date

Begin your cover letter with a simple yet respectful salute including the name and title of the recruiter or hiring manager. Your introduction should also highlight your professional profile.

  • Briefly introduce yourself and what you do.
  • Mention your career background or work experience.
  • Include your skills and accomplishments supporting your work experience and add only those that are relevant to the job description.

Express your genuine interest in the position and the company. Use this opportunity to explain why you are the right candidate for the job vacancy.

  • Relate your strengths and skills to the objectives of the company and the responsibilities of the position you are applying for.
  • Emphasize your relevant work experience and achievements.
  • Be sure to mention why you are interested in working for this company.

Keep the reader’s attention by ending with a clear and strong call to action statement. Also, make sure that your cover letter is closed using the correct format.

No matter the job or position you’re applying for, whether it’s an entry-level position or if you’re applying to become a top executive for a company, always prepare a cover letter. You can check out our resume examples so that you can prepare an impressive resume to accompany your cover letter. Aside from a well-written resume, a cover letter makes your application stand out. It shows your professionalism and your genuine interest in the job vacancy. Customize it each time according to the position or company you will be sending it to. Now is the best time to start writing your cover letter. Hopefully, the guide above can help you get started.