The goal of your cover letter is to make a case for getting selected for a job interview, so it’s important to include all required information along with a compelling argument for why you would be a strong candidate for the position. It can be time-consuming to write a custom cover letter for each job you apply for, but it’s important to take the time and effort to show the company why you are a good match. The more your experience and your skills match the job description, the higher your chances of getting picked for an interview. Don’t simply repeat what’s in your resume. Your resume lists your skills, but your cover letter should highlight how you have put those skills to use. Before you start writing, review cover letter examples and make sure that your letter explains how your skills relate to the criteria listed in the job posting. Looking at examples of effective cover letters will give you a starting point for creating your own letter. Here’s what to include in a cover letter to send with a resume when you apply for a job. Printed or Uploaded LetterList the following information in the contact section: Hiring Manager Name (if you have it)TitleCompanyAddressCity, State Zip Code Date Your NameAddressCity, State Zip Email Cover LetterWhen you send an email cover letter, include your contact information in your signature instead of listing your contact information at the top of the message: Your NameStreet AddressCity, State Zip CodeEmailPhoneLinkedIn Here’s more information, with examples, on how to address a cover letter. Consider salutation examples that are appropriate for cover letters and other employment-related correspondence. For example:
Dear Hiring Manager (if you don’t have a contact person)Dear Mr. SmithDear Ms. JonesDear Rory DolanDear Dr. Milliard
The body of a cover letter includes the paragraphs where you explain why you are interested in and qualified for the posted job:
Why you are writing.How you are qualified for the job.Appreciation for being considered for the position.
Be specific by referencing the employer’s job requirements as listed in the job posting in this part of your cover letter. As hiring processes have become automated, online applicant tracking systems are programmed to search for keywords. For example:
BestBest regardsRespectfullyRegardsSincerelyThank youThank you for your consideration
Hard copies of letters should be signed by hand. Scanning your signature to include on PDFs can be a nice touch, while emails should include a professional electronic signature that includes your contact information. Download the template for a cover letter here and also review more cover letter samples with free templates you can download to use as a starting point for your own letter. When you’re sending an email cover letter (see below) your contact information should be listed after your signature. September 1, 2020 Shaun LeeHuman ResourcesGoodspring123 Business Rd.Business City, NY 54321 Dear Mr. Lee: I am writing to state my interest in the position of Assistant to the Director of Goodspring. I believe that my work experience and education have equipped me with the skills necessary to be a successful candidate for this position. During my years with XYZ Wellness, I have been responsible for everything from accounting, bookkeeping, marketing and maintaining records to scheduling appointments and greeting clients and their families at the door. I have proudly overseen our growth from a startup business to a well-respected contributor to the community. I have also been in charge of organizing our very successful annual golf fundraiser and dinner. Last year, we raised $145,000 for our local homeless shelter. Your mission is an important one, and I would very much appreciate the opportunity to speak with you about how I can contribute to your team and help you continue to provide the services so vital to our community. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, John Bigham (signature hard copy letter) John Bigham Many employers ask that specific information is included in the subject line, and you must follow those instructions carefully. Contact information should be included with your electronic signature. Keep your letter concise and focused, and don’t include extraneous details.
