13 Best Practices for Writing a Cover Letter

13 Best Practices for Writing a Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is no easy task. If a hiring manager sees two equally great resumes, it would be the cover letter that ultimately determines who gets the job and who has to continue the arduous application process. We're here to help you create the an amazing profile with our 13 best practices for writing a cover letter.

in this guide we'll teach you:

  • Cover letter writing practices for content
  • Best practices for formatting and addressing your letter
  • How to find keywords and why integrate them in your cover letter

Before we dive into it, have one last look at your resume and make sure it's flawless.

Head over to our resume builder for some expert tips on how to best present your experience and get the job.

A good cover letter is a compilation of great content and skillful formatting. You have to pay attention to the small details and emphasize your relatable strengths.

1. Address your cover letter appropriately

The first thing that the hire manager sees on your cover letter is how you address them, so make sure you do it correctly.

Forget the impersonal "to whom it may concern" and get specific. If possible, use the hiring manager's name. If you can't find it on the job ad or the company website, try social media. LinkedIn is a great source of information.

best cover letter practices

If you can't find the name anywhere, use "Dear Hiring Manager." For more tips, check out 7 Cover Letter Opening Line Mistakes to Avoid (Examples) .

2. Have a clear message

Your cover letter has to be focused. The hiring manager has no time to read neither an essay version of your resume, nor irrelevant information.

Stick to the main questions:

  • What position you're applying to
  • How your experience is relevant
  • What you want to accomplish in that role
  • How you'll be of use to the company

3. Show relatable experiences and interests

One good practice for writing a cover letter is to stick to relevant information. While you may have the coolest hobbies and interests, like rock climbing or tango dancing, not all are relevant to the job you're looking to get.

Choose the hobbies that most closely relate to the position and talk about them. For example, if you're applying to be a web designer for a yoga company, talk about your love for yoga.

If you're applying to a bank that organizes 10K charity runs annually, talk about your passion for running. Make every piece of information on your cover letter relatable to the job.

4. Demonstrate motivation

Writing a cover letter (especially when the application doesn't require it) shows motivation. You should take it a step further and discuss why you're so eager to get the position.

best cover letter practices

Would this position help you make a difference in the world? Has it been your lifelong dream, or do you just feel very passionately about the daily tasks? Let the hiring manager know all that in the cover letter.

5. Do your research on the company

What do you do when you want to convince someone to do something for you? You find out as much information about them as you can and then use it in your favor. The same applies to job hunting.

Find out everything you possibly can about the company, the team and the work. Then address it in your cover letter.

Use the company name and whatever data you can quote. This will show the hiring manager that you've done your homework which would give you an edge.

6. Use keywords from the cover letter

The job description is a powerful weapon you can use in your cover letter. How? Find out what the key responsibilities of the position are and explain how you're qualified and motivated to perform them.

For example, if the ad says:

Responsibilities of the Sales Assistant: Provide great customer service by travel to retail stores throughout Boston to promote client services and compile a list of leads . Approach consumers during in-store retail campaigns and educate them about our product, making recommendations based on their needs . Run sales presentations during in-store sales campaigns with the goal of increasing brand awarenes s .

Report to the management team monthly.

The keywords here are highlighted in bold. Those are the main tasks that the ideal candidate would be able to execute.

Knowing that, a passage of a good cover letter would read:

cover letter example:

My experience with customer service over the past 3 years has showed me how to educate consumers on products and services, making sure that I cater to their needs. I enjoy collaborating and working in a team, and am always able to run a sales presentation at any given moment.

Promoting brand awareness and generating new leads are tasks that I perform with ease and motivation, and I'd be happy to do this for (Company Name).

Pinpoint the keywords on the ad and use them. This way you will reassure the hiring manager that you are the right candidate for the job.

7. Tailor each cover letter

Do you ever wear a suit that doesn't fit well to a job interview? No, you tailor it. This is how you have to approach each cover letter you send out.

While it's easy to send out a generic cover letter to 20 companies, the chances of you getting a job this way are slim.

best cover letter practices

Be specific and target your efforts to the company in question. For more tips, read How and Why to Tailor a Cover Letter .

8. Remove anything irrelevant

Recruiters are busy. Don't waste their time by adding irrelevant information or rambling about past experiences that have nothing to do with the position you're applying to. Keep your content short and clear.

9. Mention any personal references

Did someone from the company tell you about the position? Do you have a connection you can mention in the cover letter? If yes, do it.

This should be done in passing and delicately. You can say:

"(Name of Contact) who referred me to apply to the position explained that the job entails..."

A delicate mention of a connection can work in your favor.

10. Don't repeat your resume

Remember that the resume presents the facts of your career. The cover letter shows your motivation for applying.

While the cover letter may mention details from your resume, it should be completely different from your resume.

11. Be confident about your strengths and don't talk about weaknesses

The cover letter is supposed to show you in the best light possible, just like your resume. This is not the time to be shy or talk about your weaknesses.

Focus on what you're good at. The recruiter might ask about your weaknesses during the interview anyway, but don't jump the gun on that one.

12. Always proofread

We can't stress this tip enough. Always proofread your work. You might have the best content the hiring manager has ever seen, but if it's full of typos and grammatical errors, you won't get the job.

13. Format properly

Formatting is very important when it comes to writing a cover letter. You only get one page to work with, so you have to make the best out of it.

Stick to a neat font at a size between 9 - 11. Some of the best fonts for a cover letter are Times New Roman, Verdana, Calibri, Arial, and Tahoma.

For more tips on formatting, see our guide on Cover Letter Formatting Guidelines .

The best practices for writing a cover letter are simple and straightforward. Keep your content strong and to the point. Proofread and format well. Do your research and don't repeat your resume in a story format.

Try to incorporate as many of these 13 tips as you can and confidently send out your applications.

If you need a hand with your resume, head over to our resume builder .

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The 23 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

Amanda Zantal-Wiener

Published: December 14, 2023

I've sent plenty of cover letters throughout my career, so I know it isn't usually fun to write one. Fortunately, the cover letter examples I painstakingly gathered below show that it’s possible to have a little fun with your job search — and maybe even make yourself a better candidate in the process.

 person types of a cover letter

I was shocked upon learning 45% of job seekers don't include a cover letter when applying for a job. I definitely don't recommend following the crowd on this matter because your cover letter is a chance to tell the stories your resume only outlines.

It's an opportunity for you to highlight your creativity at the earliest stage of the recruitment process.

→ Click here to access 5 free cover letter templates [Free Download]

Are you ready to showcase your unique skills and experience? Or are you looking for more tips and cover letter inspiration?

Keep reading for 20+ cover letter examples, then check out tips for cover letter formatting and what makes a cover letter great .

best cover letter practices

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

  • Standard Cover Letter Template
  • Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
  • Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

Cover Letter Examples

  • Standard Cover Letter Example
  • Data-Driven Cover Letter Sample
  • Entry-Level Cover Letter Example
  • The Cover Letter That Explains 'Why,' Not Just 'How'
  • The 'We're Meant for Each Other' Cover Letter
  • The Cover Letter with H.E.A.R.T.
  • Short-and-Sweet Cover Letter Example
  • The Short Story
  • The Bare Bones Cover Letter
  • The Breezy Follow-Up
  • The Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
  • The Internship Cover Letter
  • The Brutally Honest Cover Letter
  • The Pivot Cover Letter
  • The Graphic Design Cover Letter
  • Consulting Internship Cover Letter Example
  • Nonprofit Referral Cover Letter Example
  • General Email Inquiry Cover Letter Example
  • Post-Phone-Call Cover Letter Example
  • Mission-Driven Graduate Cover Letter Example
  • Short Recommendation Cover Letter Example
  • Professor or Research Position Cover Letter Example
  • Director Cover Letter Example
  • Editorial Cover Letter Example
  • Promotion Cover Letter Example
  • Law Cover Letter Example

Customizable Cover Letter Examples

In a hurry for a cover letter example you can download and customize? Check out the ones below from HubSpot’s cover letter template kit .

1. Standard Cover Letter Example

cover letter examples: standard cover letter

Download a Customizable Copy of This Cover Letter Example

This standard cover letter is among my favorite approaches because it hits all the right notes: It includes a space to give a brief summary of your experience, as well as a space to delve in-depth into the specific responsibilities of your current role.

You also have the chance to describe the challenges you’ve mastered in previous roles, showing that you’re capable of facing any problem that comes your way.

Why I Love It

I love this cover letter because it allows you to describe the high points of your career while still being professional, personalized, and succinct.

2. Data-Driven Cover Letter Sample

cover letter examples: data driven cover letter

Numbers are worth a million words — or that’s how I think the saying should go (if only we could include pictures in cover letters).

Citing data and statistics about your achievements at your current company is an assured way to capture a hiring manager’s attention.

Over the years, I've learned most hiring managers don’t read the entire letter, so a bulleted summary of your achievements can be a powerful way to increase the effectiveness and scannability of your message.

I love this cover letter because it’s adaptable to any role. Even if you don’t work in a data-centric role, you can include any enumerable achievement.

If I worked in a creative industry, for instance, I could include the number of creative assets you designed for your current company.

3. Entry-Level Cover Letter Example

cover letter examples: entry-level cover letter

Many of us have had "first job jitters" (that's what I'm calling it) when applying for our first career opportunity.

However, my experience taught me to increase my chances of getting that first interview by including a cover letter that explains how my education can help me succeed in the role I applied for.

In fact, HubSpot staff writer Erica Santiago says highlighting her education was key to snagging her first role out of college.

"When I graduated from journalism school, I only had a couple of internships under my belt and maybe some writing clips — not enough to compete with most young professionals with more experience," she recalls.

"So, I highlighted the classes I took such as 'News Reporting and Writing' or 'Electronic News Gathering," she says, "And I explained the assignments I did and how they gave me real-world experience in interviewing and reporting."

She says that's how she got her first job as a digital journalist for WSVN in Miami.

If you need help understanding how to highlight your education in a cover letter, look no further than this example from HubSpot.

While other cover letter samples give experienced professionals the opportunity to share their experience at length, this one gives you the chance to describe your personal and professional attributes.

You can then convey how you can use your knowledge to help your target company reach its goals.

I love this cover letter because it’s easy and simple to use for a student who has little experience in their target industry — including those who haven’t yet completed an internship.

Looking for more? Download the entire kit below.

5 Professional Cover Letter Templates

Fill out the form to access your templates., best cover letter examples.

What does a good cover letter look like in practice, and how can you make yours stand out? I  found six examples from job seekers who decided to do things a bit differently.

Note: Some of these cover letters include real company names and NSFW language that I've covered up.

1. The Cover Letter That Explains 'Why,' Not Just 'How'

You may already know how to talk about how you’ll best execute a certain role in your cover letter. But there’s another question you might want to answer: Why the heck do you want to work here?

The Muse , a career guidance site, says that it’s often best to lead with the why — especially if it makes a good story.

I advise against blathering on and on, but a brief tale that illuminates your desire to work for that particular employer can really make you stand out.

cover letter that explains "why" with a story about a childhood experience with the chicago cubs

Image Source

Here’s another instance of the power of personalization.

The author of this cover letter clearly has a passion for this prospective employer — the Chicago Cubs — and if she’s lying about it, well, I'm sure that would eventually be revealed in an interview.

Make sure your story is nonfiction and relatable according to each job. While I love a good tale of childhood baseball games, an introduction like this one probably wouldn’t be fitting in a cover letter for, say, a software company.

But a story of how the hours you spent playing with DOS games as a kid led to your passion for coding? Sure, I’d find that fitting.

If you’re really passionate about a particular job opening, think about where that deep interest is rooted. Then, tell your hiring manager about it in a few sentences.

Why This Is A Great Cover Letter

This example shows how effective personalization can be. The writer is passionate about the employer, drawing from her own childhood experience to communicate her enthusiasm.

Further reading: Sales Cover Letter Tips

2. The 'We're Meant for Each Other' Cover Letter

This cover letter example is a special one because it was submitted to us here at HubSpot. What does the letter do well? It makes a connection with us before we've even met the letter's author.

We're meant for each other cover letter submitted to HubSpot

"Content Marketing Certified" shows the applicant has taken the content marketing certification course in our HubSpot Academy (you can take the same course here ).

Our "records" indicate he/she did indeed give an interview with us before — and was a HubSpot customer.

The cover letter sang references to a relationship we didn't even know we had with the candidate.

The letter ends with a charming pitch for why, despite him/her not getting hired previously, our interests complement each other this time around.

(Yes, the applicant was hired).

This cover letter example does an excellent job of building rapport with the employer. Despite not getting hired for previous roles they applied for at HubSpot, the writer conveys exactly why they are right for this role.

Read more: Customer Service Cover Letter Tips

3. The Cover Letter with H.E.A.R.T.

HubSpot has a lot of H.E.A.R.T. — Humble, Empathetic, Adaptable, Remarkable, Transparent.

Our Culture Code is the foundation of the company's culture, the driving force behind our mission to help millions grow better , and serves as the scaffolding for our hiring practices.

Recruiters at HubSpot look for applicants that demonstrate how they embody the Culture Code and job description, paying extra attention to cover letters that are super custom to HubSpot.

In another HubSpot submission, a HubSpot applicant writes about how she found out about HubSpot, why she likes the company, and how her professional experience aligns with H.E.A.R.T.

cover letter that details experience according to hubspot values: humble, empathy, adaptability, remarkable, and transparent.

HubSpot's recruiting team was impressed with her dedication to the company and how she went beyond what was asked for by linking her portfolio in her closing paragraph.

Featured Resource: 5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Cover-Letter-Templates

Download our collection of 5 professional cover letter templates to help you summarize your professional journey and land your dream job – whether it's at your first or fifth company.

Short Cover Letter Examples

4. the short-and-sweet cover letter.

In 2009, David Silverman penned an article for Harvard Business Review titled, " The Best Cover Letter I Ever Received. " That letter has three complete sentences, as follows:

Short and sweet cover letter example with only three sentences

One might argue that this particular letter is less than outstanding, and I'll also admit it's an older example.

It’s brief, to say the least, and the author doesn’t go into a ton of detail about what makes him or her qualified for the job in question.

But that’s what Silverman likes about it — the fact that the applicant only included the pieces of information that would matter the most to the recipient.

"The writer of this letter took the time to think through what would be relevant to me," writes Silverman. "Instead of scattering lots of facts in hopes that one was relevant, the candidate offered up an opinion as to which experiences I should focus on."

When you apply for a job, start by determining two things:

  • Who might oversee the role — that’s often included in the description, under "reports to." Address your letter to that individual.
  • Figure out what problems this role is meant to solve for that person. Then, concisely phrase in your cover letter how and why your experience can and will resolve those problems.

The key to this standout cover letter is research.

By looking into who you’ll be reporting to and learning more about that person’s leadership style, you’ll be better prepared to tailor your cover letter to focus on how you can create solutions for them.

Read here for more tips on how to land your dream job .

5. The Short Story

Basha Coleman began her cover letter with a short story. The goal of this short story is two-fold:

  • Detail the experience she already has with the organization.
  • Stand out to the hiring team.

short cover letter example from basha coleman that starts with a short story about her existing experience with pepsi

I notice her short story follows a typical narrative arc: It has a conflict/obstacle, a turning point, and a positive outcome, all created with a goal to emphasize a theme or point.

In this case, Coleman is emphasizing her existing affinity with the brand and her triumphs within the program so that she can continue on her career path.

Like the second example in our list, this cover letter does an excellent job of conveying the applicant’s existing affinity for the brand. If you are applying to a company you love, don’t be shy about showing it and explaining why.

6. The Bare Bones Cover Letter

In today's job market, cover letters aren't always necessary. Even though many recruiters won't ask for or even read them, cover letters can still be effective and convey personality to a reader.

Writing a strong cover letter can help you better convey your interest in the position and company.

This template from The Balance Careers puts together the essential components of a short cover letter: excitement about the position, your qualifications, and a call-to-action for the recruiter to follow up with you.

Combining these central aspects in a well-written, compelling narrative will go a long way in convincing readers to hire you.

short cover letter example with summarized bullet points

This letter is organized and concise. The inclusion of bullet points to highlight key skills and help the recruiter skim the document is a nice touch.

Check out this post for more useful cover letter tips .

7. The Breezy Follow-Up

In this cover letter, Amanda Edens is following the instructions the hiring manager gave by forwarding an email with resume and writing samples attached.

short cover letter example from Amanda Edens with bullet points and breezy language

This short cover letter is the result. I especially admire how she uses casual and breezy language to convey personality and enthusiasm, and she keeps her paragraphs succinct.

Not only does Amanda include links to relevant writing samples that are live on the web, but she also closes with a strong final paragraph that:

  • Summarizes the expertise she has relevant to the posting
  • Emphasizes that she doesn't want to simply get a job but rather help the organization accomplish their goals
  • The reader gets everything they need in an organized and thoughtful manner.

8. The Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

In this cover letter the candidate, Michelle, plays up her prior music industry experience to build a connection with Epic Music Group. If you have specific industry experience for the role you are applying for, be sure to highlight that.

Cover Letter Example: Admin Cover Letter

It’s clear that she’s passionate about not only the music industry, but Epic as a whole.

She’s done so much research on the company that she knows what software programs they use, and happens to be proficient in it to help convey value to the hiring manager.

This example further illustrates the importance of research.

Make sure you understand the culture of the company to which you’re applying before you send a completely unfiltered cover letter — if you don’t, there’s a good chance it’ll completely miss the mark.

In just three short paragraphs, the applicant uses their company research to drive home why they are the perfect fit for the role — emphasizing industry experience as well as software knowledge specific to the company.

All of this communicates that she’d be able to start with very few hiccups while getting up to speed.

Further reading: 15 Cover Letter Templates

9. The Internship Cover Letter

Maybe you’re just getting started in your career and looking to land the right internship to gain experience in your field.

In this case, you’ll need to highlight more of your educational background and transferable skills since you won’t have as much professional experience to highlight.

Cover Letter Examples: Internship Cover Letter

The cover letter above is a great example of how to emphasize your skills and accomplishments when applying to internships or entry-level positions. A few things the applicant does well:

  • Highlights relevant extracurriculars and affinity networks. In this case, the applicant is applying for a business analyst position, so mentioning their involvement in a FinTech group makes sense.
  • Previous internships in relevant fields: Our applicant points out that they’ve interned as a Business Analyst at another firm. Pointing out that they’ve done the role before will help make their case for fit.
  • Highlight other useful skills: This applicant is fluent in both English and German. If an international company or an organization needs bilingual support, knowing multiple languages is an asset.

This cover letter example illustrates how you can leverage your education and background to get the gig even when you don’t have much working experience. Highlighting previous internships or experience in related fields can go a long way in convincing hiring managers you’re the perfect candidate for the role.

Further reading for recent graduates:

  • How to Find a Job After College
  • Writing a Cover Letter for an Internship

Creative Cover Letter Examples

10. the brutally honest cover letter.

Then, there are the occasions when your future boss might appreciate honesty — in its purest form.

Former Livestream CEO Jesse Hertzberg, by his own admission, is one of those people, which might be why he called this example " the best cover letter " (which he received while he was with Squarespace):

Brutally honest cover letter example

As Hertzberg says in the blog post elaborating on this excerpt — it’s not appropriate for every job or company.

But if you happen to be sure that the corporate culture of this prospective employer gets a kick out of a complete lack of filter, then there’s a chance that the hiring manager might appreciate your candor.

"Remember that I'm reading these all day long," Hertzberg writes. "You need to quickly convince me I should keep reading. You need to stand out."

The applicant did their research on the company’s culture and executed this cover letter flawlessly. It’s funny and shows off the applicant’s personality all while making it clear why they are a good fit for the role.

Further reading:

  • How to Stand Out and Get Hired at Your Dream Company
  • How to Find Your Dream Job

11. The Pivot Cover Letter

Making a career switch? Your cover letter can be an excellent opportunity for you to explain the reasoning behind your career change and how your transferable skills qualify you for the role.

Cover Letter Example: Creative Pivot Cover Letter

It’s clean but effective.

Since the role she is applying for is more visual, it’s important to both show and tell why you’re a good fit.

This cover letter strikes the perfect balance between creativity and simplicity in design while putting the applicant's career change into context.

The copy is clean, with a creative font choice that isn’t distracting from the content, but still demonstrates the applicant’s knack for design.

12. The Graphic Design Cover Letter

When applying for more creative roles, the design of your cover letter can say just as much as the words on the page. Take the graphic designer letter example below.

sandra barnes cover letter

It’s got so much going for it:

  • Pop of color
  • Clean layout
  • Interesting fonts

Besides the style elements, this example also doesn’t skimp on the key skills recruiters are looking for. Using metrics, the applicant proves their value and why they would be a great fit.

This cover letter thoroughly conveys the applicant’s skills and qualifications using a variety of visual elements and emphasizing their greatest achievements.

Pro tip: If you're applying for a graphic design job, share a link to your graphic design portfolio website , even if it's not an application requirement.

Job Cover Letter Examples

Next up, let’s go over some classic cover letter examples for jobs, especially if you’re applying to internships or only have a few years of experience.

The below cover letters follow the golden rules and don’t deviate too much from the standard — which is ideal if you’re applying to positions in more traditional industries.

13. Consulting Internship Cover Letter Example

consulting cover letter

Many internship applicants are early on in their careers or are still in college. That means they’ve yet to gather enough experience to offer tangible proof of their ability to do the job.

That means that a cover letter is the place where an internship applicant can shine.

This cover letter example highlights the applicant’s skills in a bullet-point format. That makes it easier for an overburdened hiring manager to get the essence of her points, quickly, if they’re only skimming cover letters.

Not only that, but this applicant personalized the letter in every single sentence. She shares information about her prior conversations with some of the company’s employees and mentions the company’s name at every turn.

While she only has one prior consulting job, she deftly mentions the skills she developed in that role and ties them into her desired position at Quantcast Product Group.

This cover letter example does a fantastic job advertising the applicant’s soft skills in a highly scannable format — while still going heavy on the personalization.

Don’t be shy to lightly play with formatting to get your point across and to imbue the letter with your passion for a company.

14. Nonprofit Referral Cover Letter Example

job cover letter examples: nonprofit referral

This cover letter example for a nonprofit job hits the ground running by right away inserting the name of one of the nonprofit’s Superintendents.

That’s an excellent way to get a recruiter’s attention and make you stand out from the slush pile, even if you’re only just out of school, as is the case for this applicant.

If you’ve received an internal recommendation for a position, you’d be wise to open your letter with that information. Don’t worry about it feeling too stilted or strange — remember, hiring managers only skim letters.

Your goal is to make sure they get information about you that they otherwise won’t get from your resume.

With only three full paragraphs, this cover letter example is short, sweet, and to the point. No time is wasted, and it also goes over the critical basics, such as skills and experience.

This nonprofit cover letter includes a recommendation from an internal employee at the target organization, making it more likely to stand out from the slush pile.

I  also love that it doesn’t skimp on the basics, such as skills, enthusiasm, and experience.

15. General Email Inquiry Cover Letter Example

job cover letter examples: general internship inquiry

Even if a job opportunity isn’t available at an organization yet, it doesn’t mean that there won’t be. You can always send a general inquiry cover letter, like the one in this example.

This email cover letter for a political campaign internship is short and sweet, but includes the critical information the campaign coordinator needs to consider the applicant for any new positions that may open up.

The best part about this cover letter is that it can be easily customized from one political campaign employer to the next.

While it does include a level of personalization, it’s brief and can be easily changed to address the specific political candidate.

When sending general inquiries like this one, it’s essential to make the personalization aspect as pain-free as possible for yourself. That may mean including only one sentence or two, knowing that a general inquiry might not be replied to.

This email cover letter example hits all the right notes while keeping it brief and to-the-point. While we don’t recommend choosing this format for a formal cover letter, it works if you’re sending a general inquiry to an employer over email.

It’s also a good example to follow if you’re still in college or have very little experience.

Read more: How to Write a Letter of Interest

16. Post-Phone-Call Cover Letter Example

job cover letter examples: post phone call

If you get a phone call from a potential employer and they invite you to send your resume, pat yourself on the back — that is such a win. In your cover letter, be sure to mention that right away, like this example does.

A hiring manager or an executive at a company likely has a lot of tasks on their plate, which means that they may forget about your call from one week to the next.

That is totally okay, which is why this example starts with a reminder that the applicant and the letter recipient spoke back on January 31st. It also has a few more details about why they started speaking in the first place.

Aside from leveraging the phone call that’s already occurred, this cover letter also does an excellent job explaining why the applicant is an ideal choice for the job.

It goes into detail about skills and previous experience with a high level of enthusiasm, and includes a promise to follow up at the end.

This cover letter example includes two things that will immediately draw my attention: A phone call they’ve already had, and a mutual contact at their organization.

The job and internship search can be grueling; never be afraid to use everything you have at your disposal to improve your standing over other applicants.

Read more: How to Start a Cover Letter

17. Mission-Driven Graduate Cover Letter Example

job cover letter examples: mission driven

This cover letter example from a recent B.A. graduate wowed me from the first sentence.

The applicant right away explains her attained degree and her specific career interests, then dives into the aspects of her experience that make her such a great candidate.

It's so personalized to the employer’s own mission that it’s difficult to stop reading it.

Even if the hiring manager isn’t a science or health professional, they would be able to effectively gauge the applicant’s suitability for the role by the expertise she shows in her cover letter alone.

The applicant explains at length why she’s excited to work for that specific hospital. The organization serves Aboriginal populations, which aligns with her own values and research interests.

In the last paragraph, she summarizes what she knows about the employer in one sentence, then describes how each of her experiences supports the employer’s mission.

That is an exceedingly clever and meaningful way to align yourself with an organization at a deeper level.

If you’re applying to a mission-driven organization, don’t be shy about showing your excitement and expertise. You don’t need a lot of experience to show that your values align with those of your target organization.

This cover letter example is especially good inspiration if you’re making a career change, have only just a few internships under your belt, or are graduating from college.

18. Short Recommendation Cover Letter Example

job cover letter examples: short recommendation

Referral or recommendation cover letters don’t need to be too long, and this is a great example of that. It immediately leverages a mutual connection at the company.

The mutual connection recommended that the applicant contact the hiring manager for a role, which is a piece of information I  always recommend you frontload in your letter.

This specific cover letter comes from an applicant with little experience, making it a good example to follow if you’re switching careers or just out of college.

Instead of talking about their experience, the applicant uses anecdotal evidence to convey their enthusiasm for working at that company.

The writer also goes over their most salient skills, such as being able to speak multiple languages. They also explain how their degree directly applies to the target role.

I  love that the candidate highlights their leadership abilities and makes that an effective selling point for being hired.

This cover letter doesn’t go on for too long, which we love. It’s simple and sweet and provides all the information the hiring manager needs to look more closely at the applicant’s resume and make an interviewing decision.

19. Professor or Research Position Cover Letter Example

job cover letter examples: professor or research

Academic or research position cover letters might require a little more information than the typical cover letter — and this is one such example. Why is it okay to go a little longer?

Because the letter is not only a way to supplement the PhD candidate’s academic CV, but to provide a writing sample for the search committee.

I love this cover letter because it expresses the candidate’s enthusiasm for teaching and explains her instructional ethos, such as providing out-of-the-classroom opportunities, championing communication, and encouraging students to step out of their comfort zone.

The applicant also suggests courses she may be able to teach at the target institution, and expresses her interest in developing new courses as needed.

She also suggests how she can enhance the college’s extracurricular programming by offering study abroad courses, which shows not just an interest in teaching but adding to the school’s overall culture.

While this letter goes for a little longer than recommended, it serves as a fantastic writing sample and explains the applicant’s research background at length.

If you’re applying to academic or research roles, don’t be afraid to go into detail about what most excites you in terms of research interests.

20. Director Cover Letter Example

job cover letter examples: director

This cover letter example — for a Director of Catering position at a university — doesn’t waste any time.

The applicant right away says that they’re a strong candidate for the role, then jumps right into three salient qualifications that make him a great fit.

I love how the applicant uses bullet points and bold text to guide an overburdened hiring manager through the cover letter — and to give them permission to scan it, if needed.

If the hiring manager would like more information or actual examples of the skills, they merely need to read the rest of the bullet point paragraph.

As mentioned, light formatting can be beneficial to your cover letter, as it draws the recruiter’s eyes and prevents them from having to fish for the information they’re looking for.

This short, sweet cover letter includes the critical information a hiring manager or high-level executive needs to make an interview decision.

I  love the use of formatting that doesn’t stray too much from regular cover letter conventions, and I  like that the applicant kept all other paragraphs extremely brief.

21. Editorial Cover Letter Example

job cover letter examples: editorial

Applying for an editorial or journalistic position? Like a cover letter example I  shared earlier, you can take a more storytelling approach to capture the hiring manager’s attention.

This cover letter example does that effectively by telling an anecdote that directly mentions the newspaper where they’d like to work.

This immediately draws the reader in and tells them that this application isn’t random at all; the applicant would like to work at the newspaper because they’ve read it every morning.

Not only that, but they have a favorite reporter on the newspaper’s staff. The applicant then jumps into the specific reason they want to take an editorial position at the Baltimore Sun.

The cover letter includes all pertinent information, such as how previous positions have equipped the applicant to take on this job. It closes with enthusiasm after keeping the reader rapt every step of the way.

The applicant uses storytelling to — you guessed it — apply for a position that needs storytelling skills. If you’re applying for a data-driven position or a graphic design position, why not showcase those skills in the cover letter itself?

I  like that this letter doesn’t diverge too much from cover letter conventions while still differentiating itself.

22. Promotion Cover Letter Example

job cover letter examples: promotion

In this cover letter example, the applicant already works for the employer and wishes to apply for the next position to move up in their career.

I  like that the letter cites the applicant’s extensive knowledge of the organization, which will no doubt give them an advantage over external applicants.

Not only that, but the applicant also references their experience before they started working at the employer and uses that information to make their candidacy even more desirable.

Lastly, this letter includes a healthy level of enthusiasm for the university and the position — something that is never extra in a cover letter.

This cover letter example does an excellent job showing the candidate’s knowledge of their current organization while stating why they’re a natural fit for the promotion.

Plus, the letter includes information on the applicant’s relevant activities outside of work — if you’re involved in any organizations that might help you do your job better, be sure to include them.

23. Law Cover Letter Example

job cover letter examples: law

This law cover letter example jumps right into personalization, a bold move that will serve you well if you’re genuinely interested in a company and want to stand out.

The applicant cites the recipient’s recent article on bond litigation, then ties that into the role they’d like to get at the law firm.

The applicant then goes into his skills and the feedback he’s received from past managers. This is an excellent way to introduce your skills without sounding dry — or even unfounded.

By citing positive feedback you’ve received, you’ll imply that others have praised you for having those skills, and that you’re not only "tooting your own horn."

Pro-Tip: In cover letters, it’s absolutely okay to toot your own horn — that’s what they’re for. But if you can cite others’ remarks, that also helps.)

At just two and a half paragraphs, this letter is exceedingly short but no less effective. It’s an excellent example of how to personalize your letter quickly while still conveying the essentials of a cover letter.

This short cover letter example keeps it brief while still creating high impact. The applicant personalizes the letter immediately, cites external feedback, and conveys enthusiasm.

This letter proves you don’t need to write a novel about an employer to sway the hiring manager into giving you an interview.

Now that I've shown you some excellent examples, let's talk about how you can create the best cover letter for your dream job.

What is a good cover letter?

A cover letter is used to show your interest in the role, passion for the company, and the impact you've had in previous positions. Good cover letters should include a standout opening, relevant skills and qualifications, and a strong finish with a call-to-action — all within one page and unique to each application.

What’s on a cover letter?

Before you start writing your cover letter, let's cover a few basic must-haves you'll want to include. If you’re looking for more detailed instructions, check out this guide to writing a cover letter .

Add a simple, but pleasant greeting to address the recruiter or hiring manager.

Learn more:

  • Dear Sir or Madam Alternatives
  • Cover Letter Greetings

Write a catchy introduction that explains why you’re interested in the role.

  • How to Write an Introduction
  • Tips for Writing a Good Introduction Sentence

Work Experience

This is the heart of your cover letter. It outlines your relevant experience and why you’d be a great fit for the role. You can highlight special skills, experiences, professional achievements, or education to help make your case.

  • How to Write About Your Professional Background
  • Professional Bio Examples
  • LinkedIn Bio Examples

In this paragraph, add a call-to-action by expressing interest in an interview. Offer your contact information and sign off.

  • Email Closing Line Examples
  • Tips for Writing Conclusions

What does a cover letter look like?

Besides showing off your skills and qualifications, cover letters give you the opportunity to present a clear, concise, and compelling writing sample. It shows off your personality and your ability to convey ideas.

That's a lot of information to include on a single page, so it can help to have a clear structure to start with.

Check out our fillable cover letter templates to see how you should organize the content of your cover letter.

HubSpot Cover Letter Template

What makes a great cover letter?

A cover letter is personal, but it also needs to help you reach a goal and help the hiring team understand how you could perform that role with their company. This complexity can make cover letters really tough to write.

Because cover letters are difficult to write, many come off as boring, basic, or confusing for hiring managers to read. But the tips below about the qualities that make a cover letter great can help you take your cover letter from basic to bright.

Start with this quick video, then keep reading for more tips:

Personalized Introduction

Begin with an introduction that's personal. It should capture the reader's attention and address your recipient by name. Then, add a compelling opening sentence that emphasizes your interest in the specific role.

Helpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

In an increasingly digitized world, where customer-centric strategies are vital for business success, I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"To Whom it May Concern,

I am applying for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot. I have some experience in marketing and can help your clients grow their businesses."

Relevant Professional Experience

It can be tempting to use the same cover letter for every job. After all, it's about your experience, isn't it? But it's not enough to rephrase the work history in your resume.

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking to fill a specific role, so you need to show how your experience translates to their unique needs.

So, the body of a great cover letter should showcase the specific professional experiences that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Emphasize your accomplishments and skills that directly relate to what the job needs.

To speed up this part of the cover letter writing process, start by creating a list of your transferable skills . Drafting this list can help you quickly focus on the skills to highlight in your cover letter.

Then, use AI tools to summarize job descriptions and narrow in on where your experience and the needs of the role you're applying for overlap. This post is full of useful AI assistant tools if you're new to AI.

Helpful Cover Letter Experience:

"At [Company Name], I had the opportunity to assist a global ecommerce retailer in enhancing their online customer experience. By conducting in-depth market research and customer journey mapping, I identified pain points and areas of improvement in their website navigation and user interface."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Experience:

"I also worked with an ecommerce retailer to improve the customer experience. We did some surveys and training, and they were happy with the results."

Useful Examples

To make your cover letter stand out, add specific examples that show how you've solved problems or gotten results in past roles.

Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, using data to give the reader a clear understanding of your impact.

Helpful Cover Letter Example:

"I lead a team of five content writers while increasing website traffic by 18% year-over-year."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Example:

"I have a great track record of leadership and achieving fantastic results."

Research and Company Knowledge

Hiring teams aren't hiring anyone with the skills to do the job. They're hiring a person they'll work alongside at their specific company.

So, to show that you're not just looking for any job anywhere, share your knowledge of the company's industry, values, and culture in your cover letter.

Spend some time on the company website and take notes on what makes this business interesting to you and why you would want to work there.

Then, explain how your skills align with the company's mission and goals and explain how you could add to their chances of success. This will showcase your interest in the company and help them see if you are a good cultural fit.

Helpful Cover Letter Research:

"I was particularly drawn to HubSpot not only for its industry-leading solutions but also for its exceptional company culture. HubSpot's commitment to employee development and fostering a collaborative environment is evident in its recognition as a top workplace consistently. I strongly believe that my passion for continuous learning, self-motivation, and dedication to contributing to a team will make me a valuable asset to HubSpot."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Research:

"I have been inspired by HubSpot's commitment to inbound marketing and its comprehensive suite of solutions. HubSpot's dedication to providing valuable content and fostering meaningful relationships aligns with my own values and aspirations."

Clear Writing

Your cover letter needs to pack in a lot of important information. But it's also important that your cover letter is clear and concise.

To accomplish this, use professional but easy-to-understand language. Be sure to remove any grammar or spelling errors and avoid lengthy paragraphs and avoid jargon or overly technical language.

You may also want to use bullet points to make your letter easier to skim. Then, proofread your cover letter for clarity or ask a friend to proofread it for you.

  • Guide to Becoming a Better Writer
  • Tips for Simplifying Your Writing

Helpful Cover Letter Writing:

"In addition to my academic accomplishments, I gained valuable practical experience through internships at respected law firms.

Working alongside experienced attorneys, I assisted in providing legal support to clients. This hands-on experience helped me develop a deep understanding of client needs and enhanced my ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts in a straightforward manner."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Writing:

"Furthermore, as a complement to my academic accomplishments, I have garnered invaluable practical experience through internships at esteemed law firms.

Throughout these placements, I actively collaborated with seasoned attorneys to conduct due diligence and furnish clients with comprehensive legal support. Notably, these experiences fostered a profound comprehension of client necessities, whilst honing my legal acumen to articulately convey intricate legal principles within a lucid and concise framework, adhering to applicable precedents and statutes of limitations."

Genuine Interest and Enthusiasm

Find ways to convey your passion for the role and how excited you are to contribute to the company you're applying to. At the same time, make sure your interest feels authentic and outline how it aligns with your career goals.

Your ultimate goal is an enthusiastic letter that feels honest and leaves a lasting positive impression.

Showing excitement in writing doesn't come naturally for everyone. A few tips that can help you boost the genuine enthusiasm in your letter:

  • Record audio of yourself speaking about the role, then use voice-to-text technology to transcribe and add these sections to your letter.
  • Choose your words carefully .
  • Write in active voice.

Helpful Cover Letter Tone:

"I am genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Company/Organization Name] as an accountant. My combination of technical proficiency, eagerness to learn, and strong attention to detail make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident that my dedication, reliability, and passion for accounting will contribute to the continued success of your organization."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Tone:

"Honestly, I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to reconciliations, financial statement analysis, and tax regulations! Engaging in spirited discussions with professors and classmates has allowed me to foster an unbreakable bond with the fascinating world of accounting, and I'm positively bursting with enthusiasm at the prospect of applying my skills in a professional setting."

Memorable Conclusion

End your cover letter on a strong note. Summarize your top qualifications, restate your interest in the position, and express your interest in future communication.

Then, thank your reader for their time and consideration and include your contact information for easy follow-up.

To make your conclusion memorable, think about what parts of your letter you'd most like the hiring manager to keep top of mind. Then, consider your word choice and phrasing. If you're feeling stuck, this list of ways to close an email can help.

Helpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of Greenpeace. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Together, let's make a lasting impact on our planet.

[Your Name]"

Unhelpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further and how I can contribute to Greenpeace's mission. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

I’d like to add another stage to the job search: experimentation.

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search.

But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data I’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.

I certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will.

So, get inspired by these examples and templates. Write an incredible cover letter that shows the hiring team at your dream job exactly who you are.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness. This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

Professional Cover Letter Templates

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The 12 Best Cover Letter Tips for 2024

Most job applications require a cover letter as well as your resume. Your cover letter should be concise and include specific examples of how you qualify for the role. Be sure to adhere to any instructions set out by the hiring manager and proofread your draft.

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Top 12 Cover Letter Tips:

1. write a new cover letter for each application..

If a cover letter is too general, it will indicate that you have used it for several applications. Hiring managers will likely find this lazy and an indication of a lack of interest in the position. Write a new cover letter for each application, with role-specific information like relevant skills and experience.

2. Address the hiring manager by name if possible.

Addressing the hiring manager will make your cover letter stand out, as most candidates will use "To Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam." You can find the hiring manager's name by looking at the company website, searching LinkedIn, or calling the company and asking.

3. Use the correct format.

Many companies have a specific format for cover letters, and they will outline this in the job description. Make sure that you follow any instructions about format and content so that you are not penalized early on in the hiring process. A cover letter with the correct requirements shows that you can follow instructions — an important skill for most roles.

4. Use a legible font with regular spacing.

A cover letter should be easy to read with legible and evenly spaced text. Opt for a legible but contemporary font that's neat and not too over the top, and make sure its size ranges between 10-14 points, as this will help improve the reading experience for the hiring manager.

5. Keep your cover letter short and to the point.

Your cover letter should not be longer than one page. Try to limit your paragraphs to 300-350 characters to help the reader stay engaged. Your format should be a concise header, one introduction paragraph, two body paragraphs, and one conclusion. There is room for perhaps another paragraph, if necessary, but make sure you are not rambling.

6. Use simple and affirmative language.

Try to avoid sounding too formal in your cover letter, because this makes it difficult for a hiring manager to gauge your personality. It can also come across as being disingenuous. Wherever possible, use assertive verbs like "founded," "initiated," or "managed."

7. Mention the company.

The priority of any cover letter is to demonstrate how you would fit the role. Something that has become equally important is whether you will fit the company culture. Do research on this aspect of the company and include a description of how this appeals to you and how it may align with your values.

8. Highlight relevant skills.

Your resume should list all skills that are appropriate for employment opportunities, but your cover letter should address skills that are specific to the role you are applying for.

For example, a role in marketing might require a candidate with social media and communication skills. Make sure that your cover letter mentions these skills as well as previous experience that demonstrates your abilities.

9. Don't mention what you lack.

Your cover letter is an opportunity to impress the hiring manager. While you should be honest about your experience if asked, your cover letter should highlight the skills you have. Try to focus on how you meet the job requirements and go into detail about those skills or experiences.

10. End your cover letter with a call to action.

The point of a cover letter is to make a memorable impression on the hiring manager, who will likely have to sift through plenty of applications. While it's important that your conclusion include a small recap and a thank you, add a clever call to action that suggests you'd be thrilled to come in for an interview or join their respected team.

11. Check your spelling and grammar.

Spelling errors are one of the more obvious ways to tell if someone has not paid attention to detail. A quick read of your cover letter should alert you to any mistakes. Identifying poor grammar can be a bit more difficult, which is why using simple language can be best. Use spellcheck software that highlights any mistakes you may have missed.

12. Ask a friend or colleague to read over your draft.

Reading over your own writing can lead to skimming because you know what you want to say. However, a fresh set of eyes can pick up on errors or run-on sentences that you may not have noticed. A friend, co-worker, or professional career counselor can help by giving your cover letter a read and letting you know their impression of you from your writing.

How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation

What are the best cover letter tips for 2024?

  • Write a new cover letter for each application.
  • Address the hiring manager by name if possible.
  • Use the correct format.
  • Highlight specific, relevant skills.
  • Use simple and affirmative language.
  • Use a legible font.
  • Mention the company
  • End with a call to action.

What are some cover letter format tips?

A cover letter should include a header, an introduction, a few body paragraphs in which you describe how you qualify for the role, and a conclusion that mentions your eagerness to hear from the hiring manager.

What are some tips for writing an impressive cover letter?

An impressive cover letter makes specific reference to how your skills and experience make you a good fit for the role and the company. Writing a cover letter that pays attention to detail and shows your suitability in a straightforward way will impress the hiring manager.

What are some cover letter tips for recent graduates?

Focus on the experience you have from student societies and internship programs if you have no formal work experience to reference. If you have completed any relevant courses in your personal time, this would be beneficial to mention because it shows initiative and dedication to your chosen industry.

Related Articles:

How to write a cover letter, admin assistant cover letter, what is a hiring manager, how to write a resume, how to quit a job.

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Cover Letter Best Practices

A cover letter introduces you to a potential employer and should accompany your résumé, unless the employer requests otherwise. If there is an option to include a cover letter, we always recommend doing so. While a résumé provides a summary of your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements, a cover letter allows you to develop a narrative for your career, demonstrating the skills you have honed, and articulating your enthusiasm for the role.

If you think of your résumé as a map to a new city that the hiring manager has not visited before, the cover letter would be the guidebook. It will not cover everything on the map, but it will highlight the most relevant stops along the way and provide additional context. Cover letters and résumés work together and should be in conversation with the job posting.

  • Strong Cover Letters
  • Anatomy of a Cover Letter
  • Give a clear indication of the skills and experiences that make the applicant a good fit. Your cover letter should translate how your experiences have developed both technical and non-technical skills necessary for the role.
  • Provide evidence of the skills in action. Show, do not tell—provide concrete examples that craft a compelling narrative.
  • Make an explicit connection between applicant and job. A cover letter should articulate your understanding of the organization you are applying to and how you fit in.

Use a business-letter format and stick to one page of 3-5 paragraphs. Like a résumé, each cover letter you write should be tailored to the specific position and employer to align with the organization’s culture and the requirements of the role.

  • Use the same header on both your cover letter and résumé for a cohesive and polished look.
  • When available, include the name, title, company, and address of the person you are writing.
  • If you do not know the recruiter or hiring manager’s name, address your letter to “Recruiting Team” or “Hiring Manager.” Avoid using “To whom it may concern.”
  • Use the opening paragraph to introduce yourself. State why you are writing and how you learned about the position. If someone referred you or you have established a contact through networking, include the person’s name and affiliation with the employer.
  • The first paragraph should also articulate what you know about the organization and what draws you to a role. Be sure to review the job posting and carefully research the company to identify the most important skills to highlight as well as why you want to join the team. Conveying genuine enthusiasm is essential! It is often helpful to conclude the opening paragraph with a clear assertion of your skills, much like a thesis statement for your cover letter. This last sentence also helps structure your body paragraphs.
  • The body paragraphs should emphasize and elaborate on your strongest qualifications and key relevant experiences. Address qualifications specified in the job description and give concrete examples of when you have demonstrated the skills the employer is seeking. Do not repeat all the content from your résumé; instead, select 2-3 experiences that showcase the positive impact of your relevant skills.
  • The final paragraph reiterates what draws you to the organization and the skillsets and experiences you bring to the table. You should also use the closing paragraph to express thanks for consideration and to request an opportunity to discuss the position.
  • If you are using the header from your résumé, do not repeat your contact information in the signature.

Once you have a draft, get feedback! Graduate students can make career advising appointments at NCA through Handshake to receive individualized feedback from our dedicated PhD advisers on application materials. They can also pop into our virtual drop-in hours for quick questions. Postdoctoral fellows can contact the  Office of Postdoctoral Affairs for feedback on their materials. The Graduate Writing Place is another wonderful resource for both grad students and postdocs, and their fellows provide feedback on academic and non-academic application materials.

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Let AI Create Your Resume This workshop offers best practices and valuable tips for creating resumes and cover letters to achieve success when applying for jobs. You’ll learn how to create effective and professional resumes and cover letters that standout with employers.

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Instructions for attending American Job Center Workshops:

  • You will need to download Adobe Connect and Adobe Flash.
  • You must register for this event to attend.
  • An email address is required to register.
  • Please enter your first initial and last name instead of your full name when registering.
  • After registration, you will receive an email confirmation with the link needed to access the orientation at the scheduled time.
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  2. How to Write a Cover Letter in 2022

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  3. How to Start a Cover Letter to Impress Employers [+ 14 Examples

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  4. The Best Cover Letter Templates for 2018

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  5. 32 Best Sample Cover Letter Examples for Job Applicants

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  6. 70+ Cover Letter Examples That Will Get You Hired in 2024

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  1. Cover Letters That Work

    Top Free Cover Letter Builder. Land the perfect job with our AI Powered Cover Letters. The Smartest Way to Create a Cover Letter. Our AI Guided Process Guarantees Results.

  2. Free Example Cover Letter

    Complete Samples, Tips & More-Make Perfect Cover Letters for Free & Get the Job! Take the Hassle Out of Writing Your Cover Letter. View Professional Examples Online.

  3. 13 Best Practices for Writing a Cover Letter

    13. Format properly. Formatting is very important when it comes to writing a cover letter. You only get one page to work with, so you have to make the best out of it. Stick to a neat font at a size between 9 - 11. Some of the best fonts for a cover letter are Times New Roman, Verdana, Calibri, Arial, and Tahoma.

  4. How To Write a Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)

    Middle paragraph (s) Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Show Transcript.

  5. The 11 Best Cover Letter Examples of 2024

    1. The professional cover letter. In this great cover letter example, the applicant landed an IT project management job by proving they had the required project management skills and experience while providing highlights from their career: Include hard numbers in your cover letter to impress the employer.

  6. How to Write a Standout Cover Letter in 2022

    Step 2: Add your contact info. At the top of your cover letter, you should list out your basic info. You can even copy the same heading from your resume if you'd like. Some contact info you might include (and the order you might include it in) is: Your name. Your pronouns (optional)

  7. The 23 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

    3. The Cover Letter with H.E.A.R.T. HubSpot has a lot of H.E.A.R.T. — Humble, Empathetic, Adaptable, Remarkable, Transparent. Our Culture Code is the foundation of the company's culture, the driving force behind our mission to help millions grow better, and serves as the scaffolding for our hiring practices.

  8. The Best Cover Letter Examples for Any Job Seeker

    The Cover Letter Example. Have fun with this one, but triple-check for spelling and grammar mistakes, and make sure you're showing off your best writing: Dear Tai Chen, Since I could walk, I've been dancing. And since I could read, I've been glued to Arabesque Weekly.

  9. Glassdoor Guide: How to Write a Cover Letter

    The cover letter is a tool to help introduce yourself in a memorable, personal way during a job application. A well-crafted cover letter goes over information on your resume and expands this information for the reader, taking them on a guided journey of some of your greatest career and life achievements.. Its purpose is to elaborate on the information contained in your resume while infusing ...

  10. Tips for Writing a Cover Letter That Will Stand Out

    First tip on how to write a cover letter. Use fewer words to say more. Tailor your cover letter to a specific job. Be proud of your past accomplishments. Address the hiring manager personally. Use keywords from the job description. Throw in numbers and examples. More 'don'ts' when writing a cover letter. Last cover letter tip: Proofread ...

  11. Cover Letter Examples and Best Practices

    A template of a general cover letter. Greeting. Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], Opening Line (Introduction) The cover letter should include an introduction about yourself, your level of experience, where you found the job posting, and why you want to be hired for the position. The Body of the Cover Letter.

  12. Best Cover Letter Tips for Job Seekers in 2024

    Write 250-450 words in 3-4 paragraphs to hit the cover letter length preferred by hiring managers and recruiters. If you want to keep your cover letter brief, look at some short cover letter examples online to get an idea of how it should look. 3. Address the hiring manager by name.

  13. How to Write the Best Cover Letter (With Template and Sample)

    Include a postscript. 1. Use the proper formatting. There are several rules to follow when structuring your cover letter: Make sure everything is left-aligned. Use single line spaces within paragraphs and double spaces between sections or paragraphs. Include a one-inch margin on every side of your letter.

  14. How to Format Your Cover Letter in 2023

    Papadopoulos suggests decreasing the header space first. Alignment: All your text should be left aligned and there's no need to indent every paragraph. Line spacing: Single space your cover letter (1.15 spacing works if it looks too cramped). Include an extra line between each section and paragraph.

  15. Cover Letter Writing Guide 2024: Examples and Tips

    Middle management cover letter example. [Receiver's Address] [Date] [Salutation], I'm writing to express my interest in the position of [position name] at [company name]. I'm certain that my level of knowledge fits well with the obligations described in your job description since I have over six years of experience operating the [specified ...

  16. How to Write a Cover Letter That Sounds Like You (and Gets Noticed)

    Read more on Cover letters or related topics Job search and Early career. EM Elainy Mata is a Multimedia Producer at Harvard Business Review. ElainyMata. Post. Post. Share. Annotate ...

  17. 33+ Cover Letter Tips and Advice to Stand Out in 2024

    Check out the best cover letter tips for 2024 and write a cover letter that truly stands out. Back. Resume . Resume Builder Use our builder to create a ... The best cover letter practice is to find the hiring manager's name (if possible) and to include that person's details in this field of the cover letter. If you can't, though, just ...

  18. Cover Letter Tips and Best Practices

    Check out our articles on the most critical cover letter writing tips, plus cover letter best practices and do's and don'ts. Build my cover letter. As seen in:* Foot Note. CATEGORIES. Resumes. Resume Basics; Resume How-To; ... Cover Letter Best Practices. 8 Ways To Incorporate Volunteer Work Into Your Cover Letter. March 22, 2023. By Kellie ...

  19. 17 Upwork Cover Letter Tips, With Examples

    Upwork cover letter tips: Choose the correct cover letter format and style. Create a unique cover letter for each application. Keep it brief. Address the client. Show understanding of the job description. Add some personality. Showcase your achievements. Stay away from buzzwords.

  20. Write A Cover Letter To Get Noticed (And Hired!): 4 Best Practices

    Be descriptive in your cover letter, but also concise. Fully 70% of hiring leaders prefer a shorter letter, according to the Resume Now stats. In addition, be creative and let your personality ...

  21. How To Write The Best Cover Letter To Land A Job In 2024

    Thank you for your time and kind consideration. Yours sincerely, [your full name] A cover letter should be no longer than 500 words, which is about a one page word document. Therefore, you will ...

  22. The 12 Best Cover Letter Tips for 2024

    6. Use simple and affirmative language. Try to avoid sounding too formal in your cover letter, because this makes it difficult for a hiring manager to gauge your personality. It can also come across as being disingenuous. Wherever possible, use assertive verbs like "founded," "initiated," or "managed." 7.

  23. Do We Really Need To Write Cover Letters In 2023?

    Best practice when crafting your cover letter. While cover letters are a great way to demonstrate your value to a potential employer, you should always ensure that it actually delivers real value ...

  24. Cover Letter Best Practices

    Cover Letter Best Practices; Cover Letter Best Practices. A cover letter introduces you to a potential employer and should accompany your résumé, unless the employer requests otherwise. If there is an option to include a cover letter, we always recommend doing so. While a résumé provides a summary of your relevant skills, experiences, and ...

  25. Let AI Create Your Resume

    This workshop offers best practices and valuable tips for creating resumes and cover letters to achieve success when applying for jobs. You'll learn how to create effective and professional resumes and cover letters that standout with employers. Choose a date: Let AI Create Your Resume | Tuesday, March 12, 2024 | 10:00 am - 11:00 am

  26. Cover Letter Best Practices Articles

    Cover Letter Best Practices Our collection of articles on cover letter best practices can assist you as you work on the writing, organizing and proofing of your cover letter. Build my cover letter. As seen in:* Foot Note. CATEGORIES. Resumes. Resume Basics; Resume How-To; Cover Letters. Cover Letter Basics;