cover letter for freelancer job

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Freelance Job

Here’s how to write a cover letter for a freelance job.

Melissa Mauro

As a freelancer, finding new clients and gigs might just be the most difficult and time-consuming task. Of course, your connections and networking skills matter a lot for this, but your resume does too.

Nevertheless, there is something that many freelancers either underestimate or forget about. Your cover letter could be the component that would ultimately determine whether you get a job or not. Hence, here’s how to write a cover letter for a freelance job.

#1 Understand Cover Letters

It goes without saying that you absolutely need a cover letter as a freelancer. But why exactly is this? Here are just some reasons to use a cover letter to get a freelance job:

It shows your professionalism. You understand that a resume and portfolio are not always enough to show who you are as a person and why someone would want to hire you which is why you are including a cover letter.

It shows your motivation and expertise. By explaining why you applied for a specific job, you show your potential employer that you truly do know the topic and want to complete the project because you are actually interested in it.

It is often a requirement in job listings. In many cases, attaching a cover letter is optional, but there are some gigs that will require you to attach a cover letter to be able to apply.

It can be a letter you use to reach out to potential clients on your own. A cover letter isn’t necessarily used to apply for job listings. You can also use it to contact people you think might be interested in your services (e.g. small business owners).

#2 Showcase Your Personality

As explained above, a cover letter can help you show your personality. Your resume lists hard facts about your education, experience, expertise, and skills. But what about who you are as a person? That’s something your cover letter can show if you write it with the intention of showcasing your personality.

For instance, if you are a writer who often inserts humor in their content, you can show that in your cover letter by using humor there. On the other hand, if you prefer to be very serious and professional in all your communication with the client, you can show that through your cover letter as well.

#3 Include Relevant Keywords

You’ve probably heard of the way resumes are often assessed. Instead of a person viewing the resume, the document is first analyzed by a program that detects relevant keywords. If there are no such keywords, then the HR manager won’t even bother to look at the resume. While this isn’t the case for cover letters, you should still try to include relevant keywords.

Even as humans, we detect these keywords on a subconscious level. When your potential employer will be reading your cover letter, they will notice these keywords. They will be sending a signal to the reader that you have the right traits, skills, experience, etc. that the employer is looking for.

#4 Show Off Your Skillset

Speaking of your skills, your cover letter can also be used to show off your skillset. Even though you have already listed your skills in your resume, the skills you show in your cover letter are primarily soft skills that can’t be verified in any other way. Hard skills are supported by your experience and education, but soft skills are intangible.

That’s why your cover letter is where you can show off your soft skills. Things like trust, organization, motivation, and flexibility are all important for being a successful freelancer – and employers know this. Your wording also matters because it can help you show that you know how to communicate effectively.

#5 Display Your Own Value

In your resume, you can list some of the achievements you are most proud of. Your portfolio can show your skills. But to truly support the fact that you are a valuable asset to your potential employer, you need to utilize your cover letter. This is where you can display your own value.

Highlight the achievement you are most proud of that you mentioned on your resume. Explain your long-term goals and ambitions for your career. Show that you are motivated and want to grow and improve over time. That’s when the letter’s reader will want to pay for writing , graphic design, or other services you have to offer.

#6 Establish a Personal Connection

Because your resume only lists hard facts, you don’t actually appear as a person to your potential employer. You are just one of the many options they have to choose from. On the other hand, if you are able to establish a personal connection with them, they will be more likely to choose you over other applicants.

This is why many HR managers recommend that you customize your cover letters based on who you are sending them to. Research a little about the person who will likely be reading your letter and use the information you find to establish a connection with them.

#7 Format Your Letter Correctly

Formatting might not be your number one priority, but it’s actually important for your cover letter to be treated seriously. If the reader sees that your letter looks awkward, they might not even bother to read it. Even if they do read it, they will still keep in mind that the letter was not formatted or formatted in a strange way which could signal that you aren’t professional.

To format your cover letter correctly, think about it as a standard email . Begin with a proper greeting and break up the body of the letter into paragraphs. End correctly and add your name, title (e.g. Freelance Writer), and contact information.

#8 Add a Call to Action at the End

Speaking of the way you end your letter, it’s worth adding a call to action at the very end of it. A call to action that urges the reader to get back to you will remind them that you are waiting for their reply. The most common way to end your letter is something along the lines of, “Thank you for your time. I am looking forward to your reply.”

You can also add, “Please, do write back.” If you want to have a more straightforward CTA. Don’t forget to add “Best regards” or “All the best” and your name at the very end. As noted above, you should also add your title and contact information under your name.

#9 Proofread and Edit Your Letter

Once your letter is ready, you will need to proofread it carefully and edit any parts that need to be corrected. It’s a good idea to proofread your letter multiple times with different goals in mind. First, check whether it is coherent and includes all the points you wanted to include. Second, check that there are no linguistic errors such as grammar or punctuation mistakes.

You can even let someone else read your cover letter to double-check that it. A freelancer you know, a friend, or a family member can all help you with this. They could notice mistakes that you didn’t see. Once you are certain that the letter is all right, you can send it with your resume and portfolio to potential employers. If you need to, alter the letter to fit job listings better or maybe even write other versions for different types of jobs you apply to.

To summarize, writing a cover letter is just as important as creating your resume, so don’t underestimate it. Use the tips in this article to help you write your own cover letter and get more clients and gigs with its help.

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Cover Letter Examples

2 years ago   •   9 min read

Finding a good freelance job is more challenging than it seems.

Clients aren't always accepting freelance work, although when they are, it's possible to find lots of them on Upwork.com and other freelancing platforms .

The Challenge is for freelancers to write excellent cover letters that clients actually notice. We've compiled the following samples as starting points for cover letter writing.

Social Management Project Cover Letter Example

Hi [client name],

I am writing to you because I am interested in working with you on your Social Manage Project. I have over ten years of experience working with social media management, and I believe that my skillset is a perfect match for your needs.

I understand that you are looking for someone who can help you make sure your social media accounts are up-to-date and engaging, so that you can increase engagement and drive leads to your website. My goal is to provide you with the tools needed to accomplish this goal.

I have worked with companies like [company names] and [company names], who have hired me as their social media manager because they recognized my passion for what I do, as well as my ability to get results. Please feel free to check out some of my work samples at [link].

My fee is $XXX per month, paid monthly in advance via Upwork or PayPal. If this sounds like something you would be interested in discussing further, please let me know!

Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Example

Dear [client name],

I'm writing to you today because I'm interested in the Mechanical Engineering job on Upwork . As an experienced Mechanical Engineering freelancer, I'd like to apply for this position.

I understand that your company is looking for someone with extensive experience working on a variety of projects and a proven record of success. I have over 10 years of experience working as a Mechanical Engineering freelancer, and I'm ready to show you how my skills can help you meet your goals.

I've worked with clients from all over the world, including the U.S., Canada, India, and Australia. My clients have included small businesses and major corporations alike. Some of my past clients include [list previous client names], who have been very happy with my work and would be happy to provide references if needed.

I specialize in engineering, design, development, and manufacturing. My skills include:

• Designing prototypes
• 3D modeling
• Building prototypes from scratch or using existing parts
• Making sure that all parts are compatible with one another during assembly
• Creating detailed schematics of the entire system
• Providing technical support throughout the project lifecycle

I look forward to hearing from you about this position!

Financial Analysis Project Cover Letter Example

Dear Mr./Ms. [client name],

I am a top-rated freelancer on Upwork with over 20 years of experience in the financial industry. I have worked with a range of companies, including [company name] and [company name].

I specialize in creating financial models, forecasting models, and analytics reports for clients both large and small. I can help you create a custom solution that will meet your needs and help you achieve your goals.

I believe that every job starts with a conversation. It is important for us to discuss what you are looking for before we begin so that our work together is successful from start to finish.

Please let me know if you would like to set up a time to talk about your project further.

Thank you for your consideration,

Copywriting Project Cover Letter Example

I am write to applying for the  freelance copywriter project .

I have been working as a freelancer for the past five years and have been able to produce high-quality content for various different industries. I am currently working on a web development project with a client in the finance industry. This will be my fifth project with this client, and we have just begun to work together on the next project. I have also worked on a project for [client name], where I wrote copy for an advertisement that was published in [publication name]. The client was very happy with the result and asked me to write more content for them.

In addition to writing copy, I also take care of all other aspects of the job including editing, formatting, and proofreading. My background includes working as an editor at [publication name] where I edited articles written by journalists and bloggers who were not native English speakers or writers.

I would love to be considered for this position so that we can get started with another wonderful project together! Please let me know if there is anything else you would like from me so that we can move forward.

Graphic Design Project Cover Letter Example

Dear [name],

I saw your posting for a graphic design project and I believe I am the perfect candidate for the job. I have been working as a freelance graphic designer for over four years and have experience with projects like yours.

My experience includes:

• Creating logos and branding elements
• Building websites from scratch
• Designing brochures, catalogs, and business cards
• Creating brand guides to help you maintain your brand consistency across all of your marketing materials

I am confident that I can provide you with the highest quality work possible. Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or concerns about my qualifications.

SEO Project Cover Letter Example

I am writing to apply for the Freelancer SEO project. I have been working as a freelance SEO expert for 5 years, and have worked on a variety of projects in that time.

My expertise lies in creating great content that will get your site noticed and give it the boost it needs to rank well in search engines. I also do keyword research and optimize your existing pages to make sure they're ranking as high as possible.

I am confident that I can provide you with high-quality results. Please let me know if there is anything else you would like to see from me before making a decision!

Data Analysis Project Cover Letter Example

Dear [company name],

I am writing to apply for the Data Analysis Project. I would like to thank you for taking the time to consider my application.

As a freelancer, I have worked on several projects in data analysis and data entry. I have experience working with spreadsheets and databases, as well as SQL and Python. I am also familiar with VBA, Matlab, R, SAS, and SPSS.

I believe that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this position. If you have any questions about my qualifications, please do not hesitate to contact me. Please let me know when you are able to schedule an interview so that we can discuss the details of this project further.

Illustrator Project Cover Letter Example

Dear [Client Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Illustrator project on Upwork .

I understand that you are looking for someone with experience in both illustration and design, and I believe that my skillset is a good match for your needs.

I have been using Adobe Illustrator for 8 years, and I have been an active member of the Adobe Creative Cloud community since 2011. My work has been featured in several books and magazines; I have also taught classes on how to use Adobe Illustrator.

In addition, I have a portfolio of five previous projects completed as part of this platform at [URL], which can be found here: [URL]. These projects were long-term collaborations with clients who were extremely satisfied with my work.

If you would like further information about me or my work history, please let me know!

Video Editing Project Cover Letter Example

Hi [client's name],

I am writing to apply for your video editing project on Upwork .

I saw your description and immediately knew that I wanted to work with you. I have been a freelance video editor for over 10 years, working in both commercial and personal settings. I've edited everything from corporate training videos to personal home movies, and I would love the opportunity to help make your project a reality!

The way I see it, there are two key elements when it comes to editing a video: understanding what the client needs and being able to get it done quickly. It's important for me to be able to understand what you want out of the finished product in order for me to create something that will meet your expectations. And it's also key that I can deliver quickly so you can use the video as soon as possible (and maybe even before time runs out).

I've included some samples of my work below so you can see what kind of results I can deliver when given a deadline. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns about my qualifications or experience!

Blockchain Development Project Cover Letter Example

I am writing to you because I would like to be considered for your Upwork project: Blockchain Theme Customization. I believe that I can meet your needs, and I look forward to discussing how I can help you with your project.

I understand the importance of meeting deadlines, which is why I always meet my own deadlines on time or early. This is one of the many reasons why my clients keep coming back to me over and over again—they know they can trust me to do what they need done when they need it done.

I am also a skilled designer who has worked with clients in many different industries, including finance, e-commerce, and healthcare. As you can see from my previous work samples [list of past projects], I have a lot of experience designing for different industries.

If you would like to learn more about my skillset before deciding whether or not to hire me for this project , please let me know!

Mobile App Development Project Cover Letter Example

I am writing to express my interest in working with you on the [project name]. I have been a Freelancer since 2016, and have experience in many different areas of web development.

My skills include:

• Mobile App Developing Theme Customization
• eCommerce Website Development and Maintenance
• WordPress Theme Development and Customization (including WooCommerce)
• HTML5, CSS3, jQuery, Bootstrap, PHP

I believe that my experience working with Upwork will allow me to complete this job quickly and efficiently. My portfolio includes many examples of mobile application development work that I have completed for clients. I would be happy to provide you with more information about my past work if you would like to see more examples.

Shopify Development Project Cover Letter Example

I’m [your name], and I’m a Shopify expert. I can help you build your Shopify store, or customize an existing theme to fit your brand. I’ve been working on Shopify since 2016, and I have extensive experience in all aspects of the platform .

I understand that you need someone who can take your idea and bring it to life, so let me explain how my skills can help you:

• I have built many successful Shopify stores from scratch, including [store name].
• I also have extensive experience customizing existing themes for clients. For example, here are some of my current projects : [link to portfolio page].
• I can use CSS, HTML, and Javascript to make any necessary changes to your theme. I also have experience with image editing programs such as Photoshop and Illustrator.

I think this project would be an excellent fit for me because I have extensive experience. I'd love to chat more about how we can work together!

Python Development Project Cover Letter Example

I am applying for the Python Developer position on Upwork . I have been working as a Python developer since 2008, and I have been using Django since 2010. I have worked with many different types of clients and their needs, but I have always been able to deliver high-quality work in a timely manner. I am confident that my skills and experience would be a great match for your project.

My qualifications include:

• 5 years of experience in developing web applications using Python, Django, JavaScript and HTML5
• 3 years of experience in building web APIs
• 2 years of experience in designing and developing RESTful APIs
• 1 year of experience in building mobile apps for Android devices
• 1 year of experience in building mobile apps for iPhone devices
• 1 year of experience in integrating Google Maps into web applications

I would like to discuss further details about this position so that we can determine if I am the right candidate for your needs. Please let me know if you are interested in speaking further about this opportunity. Thank you very much!

WordPress Development Project Cover Letter Example

I am an experienced WordPress developer, with more than 5 years of experience in web development and design. I have worked on many projects of different sizes and types, from small blogs to complex eCommerce sites.

I understand that you are looking for a developer who can create a custom theme for your website, and I would love to be the one to help you out with this project!

My background includes working on websites for companies such as [company name], where I created a custom theme for their new website. I also worked on another site for a private client, which was a blog about fishing. This is just one example of some of my work samples that show my ability to create custom themes. In addition to these examples, I have also built multiple other sites using WordPress as well as other frameworks such as Joomla and Drupal.

If you'd like to see some examples of my work or speak more about this opportunity, please let me know!

JavaScript Development Project Cover Letter Example

I am interested in working on your  JavaScript Developing project . I have been working as a freelance developer for more than 5 years and have a great deal of experience in front-end development.

I believe that my skills and experience will be a good fit for this project, as well as my ability to work independently with limited supervision. I am also excited to learn more about your company's goals and how I can help you achieve them.

I hope that my portfolio and past work samples will show you that I am the right person for this job! If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me anytime.

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• Career Planning
• Finding a Job

Freelance Resume and Cover Letter Examples and Tips

• List Everything You're Good At
• Decide What Type of Job You Want

Develop Your Elevator Speech

Pick a style, be ruthless.

• Skip Unnecessary Space Wasters

Show Your Work

Freelance resume sample.

• Focus on Being a Solution

Format It for the Bored and Busy

Give it a personal touch, let your work speak for you.

• Follow Up, But Don't Stalk

Freelance Cover Letter Example

Creating a resume and cover letter can be tricky, even if you work for an employer and your career is pretty straightforward. For freelancers, it's even more complicated.

Not only do you have to grab the client's attention, pitch your skills, and prove that you're the best person for the job, you also have to make sure that the breadth of your experience makes you look accomplished, not scattershot.

Remember, even if you never have an employee or choose to incorporate, you are a small business owner, not someone who's doing odd jobs.

Review these tips for writing resumes and cover letters that will help you get the gig. There are examples of both and templates you can download to get your own letter and resume started.

Make a List of Everything You're Good At

Before you even start looking at resume templates or thinking about what you want your resume to look like, you need to remind yourself of why you're such an amazing catch for a prospective client. The best way to do that is to start with a simple list, which at a minimum should include:  

• Skills. This includes both hard skills, like software packages and computer systems, and soft skills, like teamwork and management experience.
• Education and training . Go beyond your degrees and formal certificates. Professional training and classes that are relevant to your work count, too.
• Achievements . Win an award? Graduate with honors? Publish a paper or acquire a patent or trademark? Write it down.
• Accomplishments . Include projects you've managed or participated in, from website redesigns to business acquisitions to department restructuring. Don't exaggerate—and certainly don't lie—but if you contributed to the success of a discrete, tangible improvement at a company or as a freelancer, put it on your list.

Here's some good news: once you have your list, you also have your resume keywords . Used by recruiting management software , keywords help your resume make it through the filter and onto a recruiter's or client's desk.

Decide Which Types of Jobs You're Going After

And now here's some bad news: You're probably going to have to make more than one resume, especially as a freelancer. Unless you're only going after one very specific niche job in an industry, you'll need to create targeted resumes to apply to each type of gig.

To make this as easy as possible, think about what types of jobs and clients you plan to focus on, and then match those with your skills list. Pretty quickly, you'll start to see how many and what kind of resumes you'll need to develop. You can probably get by with no more than two or three basic resumes, which you'll then adapt further for specific clients.

If you opt to create personal templates like these, it's a good idea to enlist an eagle-eyed friend to proofread each resume and cover letter before you send them out to prospective clients. Nothing terminates a nascent client-freelancer relationship faster than a cover letter with the wrong company name on it or a resume with totally off-base skills and focus.

Now you know what you're good at, and what you want to do. Distill that into a description that takes a minute or less to deliver—in other words, about the length of time it would take to explain your goals to a stranger in an elevator .

Another way to think about this is as your LinkedIn-headline speech or your Twitter-bio speech—in short, it's the essence of who you are and what you want in a freelance career. Whatever you want to call it, this will be the organizing idea behind your resume. Depending on the format you choose, it might even go at the top of your resume or CV.

There are many ways to organize your resume, but for freelancers, the challenge is to present your skills quickly, so that busy clients can't miss your abilities, without creating a confusing job chronology that distracts from your talents.

There are essentially three main ways to order your resume :

• Chronological , by gig or project . Full-time freelancers who've been working for themselves for a while will want to dispense with the life-story format used by many job seekers who solely work for one employer. The organizing principle here is the order in which you worked on projects.
• Combination , including your full-time employment. Newer freelancers might wish to do a combination resume, which includes both work history and skills.
• By skill set . Also called a functional resume , this style highlights what you can do, not the order in which you acquired your skills or demonstrated them.

Your resume is not an autobiography; at most, it's a profile piece in a glossy magazine. Better yet, it's your most targeted social media profile—organized, precise, and directed unwaveringly at getting you the opportunities you want the most.

This means you need to cut out anything that isn't totally necessary, including unrelated job skills and accomplishments, no matter how impressive, and any projects that don't demonstrate your aptitude for the gig you're after.

Skip These Unnecessary Space Wasters

In fact, there are some traditional resume components that you can almost always skip completely, including:

• Objective. Usually taking up a line or two of space at the top of your resume or CV, this is redundant after your targeted cover letter and costs precious seconds that potential clients could be using to take in your skills and experience. 
• References available upon request. You should definitely have professional references , ready to go—but you don't need to tell people that. They'll assume that you'll be willing to furnish them with contact information for happy clients and previous employers.

In the olden days, graphic artists carried heavy portfolios and journalists toted binders full of yellowing clips, but now you can store your work samples online, via any number of free or paid services, and add your URL directly to your resume, cover letter, or application materials.

This is an example of a resume for a freelance position. Download the freelance resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Freelance Resume Sample (Text Version)

John C. Writer 423 Allen Street, Apt. 2  Pittsburgh, PA 99999 (123) 456-7890 jcwriter@email.com

FREELANCE WRITER AND EDITOR

Creating compelling articles, documents, and social media posts for a variety of clients

Award-winning Freelance Writer, Editor, and Social Media Manager with 10+ years’ experience creating online content that draws plenty of clicks, as well as elegant documents and articles for various clients.

Key skills include:

• Expert in Online Traffic Analysis and Targeted Content Creation
• Fluent in SEO Process
• Have Written About and Edited Content on Men’s Health, Sports, and Parenting.
• Can Create Internal & External Communications

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

MONDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK, Pittsburgh, PA EDITOR AND WRITER (February 2015 – Present) Founding editor of this Bloggie-winning, highly trafficked website that has been cited in Yahoo! Sports, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated, and even The New York Times.

Notable accomplishments:

• Interview major sports figures in the NFL, NBA, and MLB for regular posts and articles.
• Oversee a staff of 10 freelance writers and editors who contribute weekly content.

MENSMAG.COM, New York, NY FREELANCE EDITOR AND WRITER (June 2010 – February 2015) Contributed to sports, health, and parenting sections as a freelance writer and editor.

Notable Accomplishments:

• Created targeted content based on traffic analysis, often producing most-read pieces on the site.
• Edited copy produced by nearly 100 freelance writers through the U.S.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY , Washington, D.C.

Bachelor of Science in English Literature (3.75 GPA; Graduated Magma Cum Laude), May 2010

Certifications and Organizations

Certificate in Social Media Management (CSMM) • American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA)

Other Skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel • Proficient in HTML

Once you have your resume created, you can address the problem writing a cover letter.

Focus Your Cover Letter on Being a Solution

Why do they need you? Because they have a problem they need to solve. Your goal is to show why you're the best person to provide that solution.

This focuses your cover letter right off the bat. No longer are you thinking of your entire work history or even the skills of which you're most proud. You now have a laser focus on the thing that really matters: fixing what's broken, turning the merely good into the truly excellent, and saving the company time and money as you do so.

At its most basic, the freelancer's cover letter looks a lot like everyone else's. You need at least three paragraphs in your letter : an introduction explaining how you found the job or lead, a middle paragraph outlining your skills and abilities, and a closing paragraph indicating how you'll be following up.

Beyond that, focus on making your letter easy to scan. Bullets are your friend, especially when you're listing your relevant skills or projects that demonstrate your talents . Assume that the person reading your cover letter will spend only a few seconds on it, and make sure that he or she can see the highlights in just a quick glance.

Don't forget to include keywords , especially if your materials will have to go through some sort of screening software in order to make it to a real, live person.

At least 60% of all jobs are acquired through networking , and freelancing is no exception. It's always better if you can have a mutual acquaintance pass along your materials, including your cover letter.

If you can't dig up a connection through colleagues, friends, family, or social media, take the time to find an actual name to include in your salutation. Avoid "to whom it may concern" if all possible. Generic addresses let the hiring manager off the hook. Think of how responsive you are to email solicitations from companies that can't even be bothered to figure out your name. (Not very.)

Don't forget to include URLs to online clips, sites, or projects, or references to an attached portfolio of your work, along with an explanation for why these particular work samples are relevant to the company's needs. Don't include everything you've ever done, or anything unrelated to the industry or the company.

Follow Up, But Don't Stalk

Close your cover letter by letting the hiring manager know when you're going to follow up, and then keep your commitment—but don't continue to pursue the contact if things don't pan out.

If you don't hear back after your initial communication, or at the designated time of follow-up, it might be appropriate to try one more time, after two weeks or so , to make sure that you haven't slipped the manager's mind.

After that, though, you have to assume that it's not going to happen with this particular potential client, at least at this time, and move on. If you exercise restraint, you won't close yourself off to future opportunities to work with the company.

This is a sample cover letter example for a freelancer. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Freelancer Cover Letter (Text Version)

John C. Writer 

423 Allen Street, Apt 2 Pittsburgh, PA 15106 412-555-1735 jc@johnwriter.com

March 25, 2021

Leroy Ramirez

Director, Human Resources

Happy Sports Website 

123 Business Rd.

Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Ramirez,

My former editor [contact name] recently told me about the senior writer position at XYZ Website, and I was excited to hear about the opportunity. I've spent the past 10 years developing award-winning, high-traffic content for sites like Mensmag.com and The Monday Morning Quarterback, which I founded and built to a top 10 sports site.

[Contact name] has told me that you're interested in adding a team member who can take XYZ Website to the next level, including incorporating social media, optimizing the site for search, and achieving consistency of tone and coverage. My experience is particularly useful to achieving your goals. I can:

• Analyze traffic and target content creation to build page views.  My content on Mensmag.com is consistently among the top 10 most-read pieces on the site, and creating and building The Monday Morning Quarterback has taught me how use analytics tools to chase down trends worth pursuing and build an audience.
• Help you get that blue verified checkmark.  I expanded the Mensmag Sports Twitter feed from 500 to 50,000 followers, including big names in the industry like Joe Sportsguy and ESPN Commentator. In July of last year, I helped earn the feed verified status.
• Get attention from the people who matter.  Whether it's getting retweets from names in the industry, boosting market share among the 18-34 demographic, or earning Bloggie awards, I have experience making great websites into excellent ones and getting them the attention they deserve. 

I would love the opportunity to talk with you about the position and what I might bring to it. I've attached my resume and clips, and will email later this week to see if we can arrange a time to talk. Thank you for your time and consideration.

John C. Writer 423 Allen Street, Apt 2 Pittsburgh, PA 15106 E-mail: jc@johnwriter.com Phone: 412-555-1735

Freelance Cover Letter Examples

A great freelance cover letter can help you stand out from the competition when applying for a job. Be sure to tailor your letter to the specific requirements listed in the job description, and highlight your most relevant or exceptional qualifications. The following freelance cover letter example can give you some ideas on how to write your own letter.

or download as PDF

Cover Letter Example (Text)

Percilla Aamodt

(968) 310-5527

[email protected]

Dear Daphna Paradowski,

I am writing to express my interest in the freelance opportunity at Upwork Inc. as advertised. With a solid five-year track record of delivering high-quality work in the gig economy, primarily through Fiverr International Ltd., I am excited about the prospect of bringing my diverse skill set and dedicated work ethic to your esteemed platform.

During my tenure at Fiverr, I honed my ability to manage a wide array of projects, consistently meeting and exceeding client expectations. My commitment to delivering exceptional results on time has been the cornerstone of my freelance career, earning me a reputation for reliability and excellence. I have cultivated strong communication and organizational skills, which have enabled me to thrive in a self-directed environment while fostering positive client relationships.

I am particularly drawn to Upwork Inc. because of its unparalleled reputation for connecting freelancers with meaningful, high-quality work opportunities. I am eager to leverage my experience in a more dynamic marketplace that Upwork offers, and I am confident that my background aligns well with the needs of your clients. My adaptability and eagerness to embrace new challenges will allow me to contribute effectively to projects across various industries.

Furthermore, I am committed to continuous learning and professional development. Staying abreast of the latest industry trends and tools has been instrumental in my ability to provide innovative solutions and add value for my clients. I am enthusiastic about the chance to collaborate with Upwork's diverse community of professionals and am confident that my passion for excellence will make a positive impact.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the possibility of discussing how my experience and skills can contribute to the success of Upwork's clients. I am excited about the opportunity to join your network of talented freelancers and am ready to bring my dedication and expertise to your platform.

Warm regards,

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Freelance Cover Letter: Sample & Guide [Entry Level + Senior Jobs]

Create a standout freelance cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

Securing a freelance job can be a daunting task. Crafting your cover letter to stand out among the competition is essential. Our Freelance Cover Letter Guide provides you with the resources and tips you need to create a strong cover letter and land the job you want.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• What a cover letter template is, and why you should use it.

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Freelance Cover Letter Sample

Dear [Recruiter],

I am writing to apply for the freelance position you posted. With over [x] years of experience in [field], I am confident that I have the skills and expertise to be a valuable asset to your team. I have a passion for [field] and a proven track record of success in working on freelance projects.

Throughout my career, I have completed a wide variety of projects related to [field]. I have worked with a variety of clients, from small businesses to large corporations. I have a strong understanding of the [field] industry, and I am up to date on the latest trends and developments. I am also an effective communicator, able to work with clients to ensure that their expectations are met.

I am confident that I have the skills and experience to be a successful freelancer for your company. I have excellent organizational and time management skills, and I am able to manage multiple projects and deadlines. I am also a creative thinker, able to come up with innovative solutions to challenging problems. I am a self-starter and I have the motivation and determination to reach any goal I set.

Please find attached my resume and portfolio for more information about my professional experience and skills. I look forward to discussing this position in more detail and how I can contribute to your team.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Why Do you Need a Freelance Cover Letter?

A Freelance Cover Letter is an important document for any freelancer to have in their arsenal. Here are some reasons why you need one:

• It's a great way to introduce yourself and your skills to potential clients.
• It allows you to explain why you think you would be the perfect fit for the job.
• It can help you stand out from other applicants and show your commitment to the project.
• It can help you highlight your best qualities and make a positive impression on the client.
• It can be used to show that you are knowledgeable about the company and their industry.
• It can help you explain why you believe the job is the right fit for you.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Start off with a strong introduction that outlines your experience and qualifications.
• Clearly state why you are the ideal candidate for the role and how your skills and experience will be beneficial.
• Briefly explain your experience in the industry and why you are passionate about it.
• Demonstrate your knowledge of the company and what you can bring to the role.
• Keep it concise and to the point – try to keep the letter to one page.
• Address the letter to the relevant person or department.
• Proofread the letter to ensure there are no spelling or grammar mistakes.
• Include a call to action at the end to encourage a response.

What's The Best Structure For Freelance Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Freelance resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Freelance cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Freelance Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

As a freelance professional, I have extensive experience in managing projects, developing strategies, and delivering results. I have worked with both small and large companies in various industries, ranging from technology to hospitality. With this experience, I am confident that I can be a great asset to your team.

I understand the importance of time and cost efficiency, and I have the skills and experience necessary to effectively manage projects and resources. I have a proven track record of success in developing effective strategies to meet deadlines, control costs, and improve customer service. My expertise in project management and my ability to develop innovative solutions have enabled me to consistently exceed expectations.

I am also knowledgeable in several areas of business, including marketing, finance, and accounting. I have a degree in Business Administration, and I am familiar with the latest software and technologies. I have excellent communication skills, and I am able to quickly comprehend and analyze complex topics.

I am confident that I can bring a unique perspective to your organization. I am eager to join a team where I can use my skills to help your organization reach its goals. I am sure that I can be a great asset to your team and I look forward to discussing my qualifications in more detail.

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Freelance Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Not researching the company you are applying to
• Using a generic cover letter for all jobs
• Not including relevant information about yourself
• Using overly casual language or slang
• Using industry jargon without explanation
• Including too much or too little information
• Making spelling and grammar mistakes
• Not including contact information
• Failing to customize the cover letter to the job
• Using a template without making necessary changes
• Not proofreading your letter

Key Takeaways For a Freelance Cover Letter

• Highlight specific skills and experience that make you a desirable candidate for the job.
• Research the company and demonstrate an understanding of their mission and values.
• Include a link to your portfolio or website, if available.
• Be concise: keep the cover letter to one page.
• Be sure to include your contact information.
• Proofread the letter for any errors and typos.
• End with an action statement, such as “I look forward to hearing from you.”

Professional Freelance Writer Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your freelance writer cover letter must immediately highlight your writing prowess. Let your command of language engage the reader from the very first line. Demonstrate your ability to understand and meet the client's needs within your cover letter. Provide a glimpse of your unique voice and versatility as a freelance writer.

Cover Letter Guide

Freelance Writer Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Freelance Writer Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Embarking on your freelance journey, you’ve begun applying for jobs and suddenly hit a common snag: crafting the perfect cover letter. Unlike a resume, your cover letter is your chance to showcase a pinnacle professional moment, telling the compelling story behind your proudest achievement. To stand out, it needs to be formal without being laden with clichés, and concise enough to make an impact in just one page. Let's navigate through creating a cover letter that opens doors.

• Personalize the greeting to address the recruiter and your introduction that fits the role;
• Follow good examples for individual roles and industries from job-winning cover letters;
• Decide on your most noteworthy achievement to stand out;
• Format, download, and submit your freelance writer cover letter, following the best HR practices.

Use the power of Enhancv's AI: drag and drop your freelance writer resume, which will swiftly be converted into your job-winning cover letter.

If the freelance writer isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Freelance Writer resume guide and example
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Freelance Writer cover letter example

PETER CONNOLLY

NYC, New York

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Tailoring to the Company: The cover letter specifically acknowledges the company's focus on merging technology with user experience, showing that the candidate has researched the company and understands its values.
• Quantifiable Achievements: The writer mentions a notable achievement at Herman LLC, providing concrete figures (over 100,000 views, a 60% increase in customer engagement), which help illustrate their success and potential impact.
• Relevant Experience: The candidate draws attention to their background in Blockchain and SaaS sectors, which are likely highly relevant to the hiring company's field, suggesting a good fit for the role.
• Proactive Problem-Solving: Mentioning the role in optimizing website pages and email campaigns demonstrates a proactive approach and willingness to take on responsibilities beyond content creation, showcasing versatility.

Five tips on formatting your freelance writer cover letter

Do you want to make a good impression on recruiters and, at the same time, follow the best industry advice on writing your freelance writer cover letter?

Make sure to include the following:

• Header and Salutation;
• Introductory paragraph;
• Body paragraph;
• Closing paragraph;
• Signature (this one is up to you).

Remember to use the same modern, simple font for your freelance writer cover letter as you did for your resume (e.g. Lato, Rubik, etc.)

Ensure your freelance writer cover letter is single-spaced and is wrapped around a one-inch margin, like in our cover letter templates .

Once completed, use our cover letter builder to export your freelance writer cover letter in the best format to keep your information intact - PDF.

At the end of the day, your freelance writer cover letter won't be assessed by the Applicant Tracker System (ATS) software, but by the recruiters. Your information should thus be legible, organized, and follow a structured logic.

The top sections on a freelance writer cover letter

• Header : This includes your contact information, the date, and the recipient's details, ensuring that the recruiter knows who you are and how to contact you, and also shows attention to detail and professionalism.
• Greeting : Address the recruiter or hiring manager by name if possible; doing so adds a personal touch and shows that you’ve done your research, which is a valued trait for a freelance writer.
• Introduction : In this section, briefly mention your writing background, express your interest in the freelance position, and provide a hook, like a notable publication or a relevant accomplishment, to grab the reader's attention immediately.
• Body : The body should showcase your prior writing experience, demonstrate an understanding of the company's content style or objectives, and include specific examples of how your skills have contributed to previous projects or publications, reflecting your ability to deliver similarly excellent results.
• Closing : Conclude with a call to action, such as expressing eagerness to discuss how your writing can align with the company’s needs, and thanking the recipient for considering your application, showing courtesy and professionalism which fosters a good first impression.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Strong writing and editing skills: Demonstrates the core competency required for creating compelling content.
• Versatility in writing styles: Shows adaptability to different writing tasks, tones, and target audiences.
• Proven track record delivering high-quality content on time: Indicates reliability and professionalism in meeting deadlines.
• Expertise in a particular subject matter or niche: Suggests in-depth knowledge that can add value to content within specialized fields.
• Experience with SEO and digital content strategies: Highlights an understanding of how to optimize content for online audiences and search engines.
• Excellent research abilities: Reflects the capacity to gather accurate information and create well-informed content.

Personalizing your freelance writer cover letter salutation

Always aim to address the recruiter from the get-go of your freelance writer cover letter.

• the friendly tone (e.g. "Dear Paul" or "Dear Caroline") - if you've previously chatted up with them on social media and are on a first-name basis;
• the formal tone (e.g. "Dear Ms. Gibbs" or "Dear Ms. Swift") - if you haven't had any previous conversation with them and have discovered the name of the recruiter on LinkedIn or the company website;
• the polite tone (e.g. "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear HR Team") - at all costs aim to avoid the "To whom it may concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam", as both greetings are very old-school and vague.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Company Name] Team,
• Dear [Department] Supervisor,
• Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear [First Name] [Last Name],

Using your freelance writer cover letter intro to show your dedication

We know just how difficult it is to start writing your freelance writer cover letter introduction .

There are so many great qualities you have as a professional, which one should you choose?

How about writing up to two sentences about your passion and commitment to the work you do or are set to do?

Try to describe exactly what you enjoy about the potential role.

A positive attitude from the get-go will help you stand out as a motivated freelance writer professional.

What to write in the middle or body of your freelance writer cover letter

Here's where it gets tricky.

Your freelance writer cover letter body should present you in the best light possible and, at the same time, differ from your resume.

Don't be stuck in making up new things or copy-pasting from your resume. Instead, select just one achievement from your experience.

Use it to succinctly tell a story of the job-crucial skills and knowledge this taught you.

Your freelance writer cover letter is the magic card you need to further show how any organization or team would benefit from working with you.

Finishing off your freelance writer cover letter with what matters most

So far, you've done a fantastic job in tailoring your freelance writer cover letter for the role and recruiter.

Your final opportunity to make a good impression is your closing paragraph.

And, no, a "Sincerely yours" just won't do, as it sounds too vague and impersonal.

End your freelance writer cover letter with the future in mind.

So, if you get this opportunity, what do you plan to achieve? Be as specific, as possible, of what value you'd bring to the organization.

You could also thank recruiters for their interest in your profile and prompt for follow-up actions (and organizing your first interview).

Lacking experience: here's how to write your freelance writer cover letter

As a candidate with no experience, it's important to be honest from the get-go of your application .

Use your freelance writer cover letter to sell your unique talents. Choose an accomplishment from your academic background or your volunteer work to show the skills that are relevant to the role.

Focus on your career objectives and how you see the job to align with them. Be specific and, at the same time, realistic about where you picture yourself in five years.

Key takeaways

Writing your freelance writer cover letter doesn't need to turn into an endless quest, but instead:

• Create an individual freelance writer cover letter for each role you apply to, based on job criteria (use our builder to transform your resume into a cover letter, which you could edit to match the job);
• Stick with the same font you've used in your resume (e.g. Raleway) and ensure your freelance writer cover letter is single-spaced and has a one-inch margin all around;
• Introduce your enthusiasm for the role or the company at the beginning of your freelance writer cover letter to make a good first impression;
• Align what matters most to the company by selecting just one achievement from your experience, that has taught you valuable skills and knowledge for the job;
• End your freelance writer cover letter like any good story - with a promise for greatness or follow-up for an interview.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

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How to create a freelance writer cover letter that works (with examples)

A cover letter is like a handshake: it tells your clients everything they need to know about you as a person. It hints at work ethic, fairness, talent, and even enthusiasm. For freelance writers in particular, a good cover letter can make a huge difference when trying to secure a freelance writer job .

In this mini-guide, we’re covering everything freelance writers need to know about writing a great cover letter.

What does a cover letter do?

As a freelance writer, a cover letter brings a certain level of humanity into the freelance hiring process. Particularly when hiring from marketplaces like Upwork, freelance writing jobs can feel faceless. You submit a form and hope for the best. Meanwhile, a company hiring freelancers has nothing but a bunch of form submissions to judge people by. The cover letter breaks through that noise to (hopefully) build a human connection.

For a freelance writer particularly, a cover letter also does a few extra things and shares additional information:

Showcase your writing ability : A well-written cover letter is a work sample unto itself.

Build excitement : As a freelance writer, use your language and storytelling writing ability to entice the reader down the cover letter.

Encourage conversation : Share a lot of information, but leave just a bit unsaid in your cover letter so a hiring manager wants to reach out. Ideally, write your cover letter in a way that entices a recruiter to want to learn more about your writing, your experience, your resume, and see if you might be a good freelance writer for them.

4 elements of a strong cover letter

A cover letter as a freelance writer is meant to do one thing: get you to the next step, whether that’s an interview, resume review, or landing the freelance writer job. With that in mind, the strongest cover letters will have the following elements:

1. Awareness of who you’re talking to

As a freelance writer, ideally you’re addressing your cover letters to the person reviewing applications. In most companies that will be the head of the department (for freelance writers, that usually means marketing or editorial), though occasionally HR will step in to support.

Once you’ve figured out who the person is, check out their LinkedIn profile (and updates) to see how they speak and interact with people - then tailor your cover letter to that person. Who knows, you might even find they used to be a freelance writer too!

If you can’t find a specific person, check out the company’s existing content to get cues for tone, style, and topic. And if you’re applying for an anonymous freelance writer job where the company is only named if you get a call back, read the posting carefully then mimic its tone and style in your cover letter.

2. Succinctness

Get to the point in your cover letter. Avoid passive voice (especially when discussing your accomplishments), and don’t make the cover letter longer than it needs to be. Remember: a cover letter is meant to get you to the next step, not give them your life’s story.

You will need to self-edit your cover letter after it’s written, removing any areas you’ve been repetitive or offered too many examples (when one would clarify the point perfectly). This is especially true as a freelance writer, since you need to demonstrate your writing chops in your cover letter.

3. Relevant tone

Whenever possible, research the company’s media kit to understand its vision and the words it uses to describe itself. Use this information as an editorial cue in order to match their tone as best you can in your cover letter (or at least get close to the brand’s tone while staying true to your personal style). If you can’t find a media kit, read interviews with the company’s execs or read the company’s about page. Think about the cover letter writing process almost like an interview you'd do as a freelance writer. Instead of asking questions, you're reading the company's website.

This tip is especially critical for freelance writers, since your cover letter is the first piece of writing a potential client will see. If a brand prides itself on its casual tone and you write a highly-structured, ultra-professional cover letter, you’ll come off as out of touch.

4. Keyword optimization

Write your initial cover letter draft ignoring all keywords, but add them into your cover letter during your self-editing round. First, look for obvious switches where you can sub in your word (e.g. “hard-working”) for their word (e.g. “hard worker”). Then look for context switches where you can reorient an example to better showcase what they are looking for (for example: switching up a client story to highlight your time management skills versus your editorial ability). After that, look for any opportunities to naturally insert a keyword (if you see one that you have a story for, but you hadn’t included in your original cover letter writing).

What to include

When writing your cover letter, here are the key things to include:

An introduction and clear statement of intent : Unless instructed otherwise by the job posting, start your cover letter with a clear introduction and statement of intent (which position you’re applying for). You should also address the cover letter to the hiring manager, if you can identify that person's name.

Demonstrative examples : Use your cover letter to highlight client capabilities—time management, project management, etc.—that aren’t immediately apparent with a writing sample. Tailor these examples to what’s asked or highlighted in the job posting.

Your experience : Explain in your cover letter how your experience sets you up perfectly to be a freelance writer for this company. You can pull example language from the job application and job description, highlighting how you fit that description perfectly.

Link to a relevant portfolio : While your cover letter can be a work sample, you should also include a link to your freelance writing portfolio . Just make sure it’s only relevant samples, not a long web page with dozens of links. This is a great way to show off your writing experience, including both articles and other forms of writing you've done.

Achievements or awards, if relevant : Sometimes the job will require subject matter expertise or demonstrated knowledge in a certain style of writing. On top of work samples, you might want to include any achievements or awards that prove your knowledge in your cover letter. This can be particularly helpful if you have an achievement in a subject but don’t have a specific writing sample for it. This is also something you can bring up in the job interview, if that's a part of the application.

Any additional asks from the job posting : Different jobs will ask for different things, but make sure you include anything that’s asked. Some asks are job-relevant, such as credentials, while others are tasks to assess if you’re paying attention, for example something like “to prove you read this job posting, include the word ‘potato’ in your cover letter somewhere.”

Connection to your resume : Make sure you reference your resume, but don't give away all the details. Instead, use your cover letter to tease what a hiring manager might see in your resume, enticing them to check it out. Note: You should always tailor your resume to each job application process.

Contact information : You will likely include this elsewhere in the application as well, but for good measure you can also include your email address (or marketplace profile URL for direct messages) under your name at the end of the letter.

Pitfalls to avoid

If you want your cover letter to stand out in a good way, avoid these pitfalls:

More than one page : Never write a cover letter that's more than one page unless the job description explicitly requests it. Most of the time, people don't read cover letters if they are longer than one page, which means you risk a client missing out on an important example or quality copywriting skills.

Passive voice : If you naturally write in passive voice as a writer, stomp it out in your cover letter (and resume).

You can usually find passive voice with one of two tests: if there’s no person doing the action (“usually created…”) or when you use two verbs (“mistakes were made”). In all cases, revise. Either edit the sentence to put yourself in the action or, if you didn’t do the action, remove the sentence (see: filler content).

Filler content : Additional segues, “talkative language” (e.g. “as well as” versus simply “and), or explaining what everyone else did in a project are prime examples of cover letter filler content.

Paying another writer to write your cover letter for you : As a freelance writer, paying someone else to write your cover letter is dangerous. It’s either going to be low quality and you won’t get the job, or it will be high quality and your client will expect you to produce that style of writing throughout the project.

Since a lot of freelance writing involves employing your own style, displaying someone else’s style for your cover letter is a huge potential problem that hides your experience.

Examples to take inspiration from

Not sure what your cover letter should look like? Here are three cover letters we like from Great Sample Resume, LiveCareer, and The Balance SMB.

Check out this cover letter example on Great Sample Resume .

Check out this cover letter example on LiveCareer .

Check out this example on The Balance SMB .

Remember to be human in your cover letters

As a freelance writer, the term “cover letter” can spark fear, but you're really just writing an introductory letter to share your experience and work you've done with past clients. Treat it like a conversation with your prospective client about the position instead of a big deal. From there, send it off and hope for the best. In the meantime, work on any existing client work you have or sourcing more deals—then you won’t have time to worry about whether they liked your letter.

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How to write a killer freelance cover letter?

When starting out as a freelancer , freelance cover letters can be a source of anxiety. For those who are already comfortable with traditional cover letters and resumes, it’s a bit easier though. That being said, the freelance cover letter is a bit different from standard cover letters . After all, you’re not applying for a full-time job. You’re most likely vying for a place on a specific project.

It’s a simple fact: the cover letter that gets you the interview is a good cover letter. That’s not to say that any cover letter that doesn’t get you a foot into the door is bad. Rather, your cover letter needs to have the right structure, stress relevant information and fit the specific needs of the client . How to write a killer freelance cover letter? The must-have elements of a good cover letter are presented below.

Freelance cover letter: make a good first impression

The freelance cover letter looks a lot like a standard application letter. The main difference being that the first one is a lot more specific and “precise” than the second one. For a standard cover letter, you are encouraged to show versatility and to present a profile that will serve the company on the long run. Whereas the freelance cover letter doesn’t necessarily have those aims.

In fact, freelance projects durations can range from a few days,, to a few weeks or even years. However, clients don’t typically recruit the most versatile projects they can find when there is a highly specialized talent pool to choose from .

The freelance cover letter is often the first contact; the freelancer’s chance to make a good first impression with their future client. Typically, freelancers try to fit the job description to a T and try to present themselves as the missing link for a specific project.

For example, on a fashion project, the independent worker will try to convince that they are fans of Dior or Louis Vuitton. For video game relate projects, they will list every single accomplishment they ever had in that area. There is nothing wrong with that per se, but it’s not the best way to apply on freelance projects.

Go beyond the standard application letter : do the research!

One perk freelancers have when writing application letters, is that we already know the type of project to which we will contribute . Going through the job description often provides useful and relevant information in that regard. All things considered, this research method should also be applied to standard cover letters . If you’re not doing it already, you should definitely start.

What is the client’s website? What are the stated goals on their about page? What are relevant and recent news regarding the brand? What is the scope of the project and obstacles they may face? This information, when they’re available, will allow you to craft the kind of cover letter that highlights the skills that will benefit the client.

And when the information is not readily available, ask for it in your cover letter. This is another one of the main advantages you have over common application letters. Your freelance cover letter should tell the client precisely how you can help his project. And if not, it should at least allow you to ask useful questions in order to get the data .

The “must-have” elements of a good cover letter

If there is one piece of advice I can give, is to avoid standard templates you can copy and paste on all applications. If possible, always rite your freelance cover letters from scratch and craft it around the specifics of each job.

Here are the main elements that should always appear in your application letters:

Your presentation

Your name and surname obviously. Sometimes your country or residence or origin if it’s relevant to the job. Any other personal information that can make your profile shine can be added to this section . For instance, you can let the client know that you have young children at home, if they are looking for a content writer for their childcare website.

Your expertise

The client already knows whether you are a writer, a graphic designer or a developer. What they don’t know yet, is that you’ve worked on such and such large scale projects, that you have real-world experience regarding the tasks they want to give you. Don’t forget to add samples of your work: articles, links to websites and any other relevant documents you can attach to your cover letter .

Your certifications

If you don’t have prior experience, you should try to impress with certifications and diplomas. Of course, only send the ones that pertain to the project you are applying to.

Your questions

As stated earlier, the freelance cover letter is your first impression. Be curious and inquisitive! It’s the perfect moment to ask details about the project: the obstacles they are facing, their work processes, etc. These are questions you are likely to ask during the interview, but it doesn’t hurt to show that you understand the scope and outlines of such projects.

Your suggestions

If you notice some elements in the project description that could be further optimized, you can already make suggestions inside your cover letter. Let’s say the job is to edit travel videos about South-East Asia for French expats… Why not suggest to make short videos to share on Twitter and Tik Tok too? Even the most obvious ideas can become relevant suggestions . Don’t hesitate!

Not everyone agrees on this point. However, I think that your rates should be clearly presented within your freelance cover letter . That way, nor you, nor your client loses time. And when possible (which is always), your rates should be clearly and precisely itemized.

Freelance Cover Letter Template

The following cover letter was used for an old application. This letter didn’t get me the job, but it contains all the key elements of a good freelance cover letter.

Hi, My name is [REDACTED] ., I’m a native French speaker from [REDACTED] . I’ve read the job description and I would like to apply. have a many years of experience as a content writer under my belt and I have an advanced understanding of SEO. I am specialized in organic SEO and I understand how optimized content can contribute to an effective long term SEO strategy. I’ve written content regarding SEO best practices, natural indexing, the importance of social media strategies, PPC campaigns, etc. I’m confident that I would be able to deliver the kind of insightful content that will educate your readers on the importance and reach of such services. You will find such articles on [REDACTED] . I also have experience when it comes to rewriting (and rejuvenating) existing content. For such tasks, I can guarantee that the final content will fit any criteria imposed by platforms such as SurferSEO or even ClearScope.io (if you require it). I’m also comfortable working with WordPress and using plugins such as YoastSEO or RankMath. I actually use such tools on my own website : [REDACTED] . I noticed that there is no information regarding the length of the texts. I’m assuming that these will be around 1000 words. I also understand that you will want to retain all rights to the content. On that basis, I will charge $140 per article (which amounts to 3 hours or research and writing + 1 hour set aside for final revisions after feedback). Taking into account the relatively short deadline and the fact that some of the texts are already partially written (and will therefore take less time), my total estimate for the cost of this project is $2500 should you choose to work with me. I can guarantee delivery before the specified deadline (5 weeks at most). I can guarantee the authenticity of the content and its perfect integration with your global SEO strategy. The content will reach your audiences and effectively impact search engine rankings. I’m available to answer any clarification questions you may have. Best Regards, [REDACTED] .

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Best 10 Freelance Cover Letter Hacks: Boost Your Hire Rate

In the competitive world of freelancing, the importance of a well-crafted freelance cover letter cannot be overstated. A freelance cover letter is often your first point of contact with a potential client, offering you a prime opportunity to showcase your skills and professionalism. Understanding how to effectively communicate your value through a freelance cover letter can significantly increase your chances of getting hired. Here are the best 10 hacks to make your freelance cover letter stand out and boost your hire rate.

Advantages of Unique Cover Letter

Creating a unique freelance cover letter for each application is crucial. A personalized letter demonstrates your genuine interest in the project and your dedication to providing tailored solutions for the client. It sets you apart from those sending generic applications, highlighting your commitment to quality and attention to detail.

Creating a unique cover letter for each freelance application offers several advantages:

• Demonstrates Genuine Interest : Personalizing your cover letter shows that you have a real interest in the specific project, making you stand out as a dedicated candidate.
• Highlights Tailored Solutions : It allows you to discuss how your skills and experiences specifically match the client’s needs, showcasing your ability to provide customized solutions.
• Sets You Apart from the Competition : A unique cover letter distinguishes you from other freelancers who may submit generic applications, enhancing your chances of being noticed.
• Shows Commitment to Quality : Taking the time to craft a unique letter for each application reflects your commitment to delivering high-quality work.
• Enhances Communication Skills : It provides an opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills, showing that you can convey your ideas effectively and persuasively.
• Attention to Detail : A customized cover letter signals that you pay attention to the details, an essential trait for successfully completing projects to the client’s satisfaction.
• Builds a Stronger Connection : By addressing the client’s specific concerns and requirements, you can establish a stronger, more personal connection from the start.
• Improves Success Rate : Tailoring your cover letter to each job can significantly improve your chances of getting hired, as it shows that you’ve invested effort in understanding the project and the client’s needs.

Hack #1: Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job

Avoiding generic cover letters is essential. Each freelance cover letter should be tailored to the specific job posting and client needs. Mention the project by name, and relate it directly to the requirements listed in the job description. This approach shows that you’ve taken the time to understand what the client is seeking, significantly increasing your chances of catching their attention.

Hack #2: Start With a Strong Opening Line

The opening line of your freelance cover letter is critical. It’s your hook. Begin with something memorable, such as how you can solve a problem the client faces or an impressive achievement relevant to the job. For example, “I’ve successfully increased website traffic by 200% for my last three clients, and I’m excited to help you achieve similar results.”

Hack #3: Showcase Your Relevant Skills and Experiences

Highlight skills and experiences in your freelance cover letter that are most relevant to the job. Use specific examples and achievements to demonstrate your expertise. Quantify your successes whenever possible, as this makes your claims more credible and concrete.

Hack #4: Use Keywords from the Job Description

Incorporate keywords from the job posting into your freelance cover letter. This not only shows that you’ve read the description carefully but also helps your letter pass through any applicant tracking systems. Identify the most important skills and qualifications listed and weave them into your narrative.

Hack #5: Demonstrate Your Understanding of the Client’s Needs

Show that you’ve done your homework by demonstrating an understanding of the client’s needs in your freelance cover letter. Mention any relevant industry trends or challenges and how you can help address them. This shows that you’re not just interested in any job but are specifically interested in helping them succeed.

Hack #6: Keep It Concise and Focused

Brevity is key. Your freelance cover letter should be concise, focusing on the most compelling information. Aim for a maximum of one page, carefully selecting only the most relevant details to include. This respects the client’s time and keeps their attention on your strongest points.

Hack #7: Include a Call to Action

End your freelance cover letter with a strong call to action. Encourage the client to contact you for an interview or discussion about the project. A simple, “I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team,” invites further communication.

Hack #8: Proofread and Edit Your Cover Letter

Proofreading your freelance cover letter is crucial. Typos and grammatical errors can undermine your professionalism. Use tools like Grammarly or have a friend review your letter to ensure it’s polished and error-free.

Hack #9: Use a Professional Format and Design

Your freelance cover letter’s format and design should be professional. Stick to a clean, easy-to-read layout. While creativity can be a plus, especially for design-related jobs, ensure it doesn’t distract from the content of your letter.

Hack #10: Follow-Up After Sending

Following up after sending your freelance cover letter can demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment. If you haven’t heard back within a week or two, a polite email reiterating your interest in the project can keep you at the forefront of the client’s mind.

Why does a cover letter not work?

Cover letters might not always achieve their intended impact due to various factors such as the hiring process’s focus, the recipient’s preferences, or the content and presentation of the letter itself. Despite the effort put into crafting a personalized message, these factors can diminish its effectiveness in making your application stand out.

Limitations:

• Screening Processes : Many companies use automated screening processes (Applicant Tracking Systems, or ATS) that focus more on keywords in resumes than the nuances of a cover letter, which can lead to your application being overlooked before it reaches human eyes.
• High Volume of Applications : For highly sought-after positions, employers may receive an overwhelming number of applications, leading to less time spent reviewing each cover letter or skipping them entirely.
• Generic Content : If a cover letter is not sufficiently tailored to the job or includes generic phrases, it may fail to capture the employer’s interest, negating its potential impact.
• Mismatch with Company Culture : Sometimes, the effort put into a cover letter may not align with a company’s culture or the hiring manager’s expectations, making it less effective.
• Lack of Clarity or Specificity : Cover letters that are too long, lack focus, or fail to clearly articulate how the candidate’s experience and skills match the specific job requirements can be ineffective.
• Incorrect Assumptions : Assuming too much about the company’s needs or the role without clear evidence can turn off employers, as it may come across as presumptuous or misinformed.
• Overemphasis on Cover Letter : Overreliance on the cover letter to secure a position, without equally strong resumes or portfolios, can lead to disappointment. It’s crucial to balance all elements of an application.
• Digital Communication Preferences : With the rise of digital communication, some employers may prefer LinkedIn profiles, online portfolios, or direct email inquiries over traditional cover letters, reducing the latter’s relevance.
• Subjective Evaluation : The impact of a cover letter can be highly subjective, depending on the reader’s personal preferences, mood, or the specific context within which they are reading it.

3 Compelling Cover Letter Samples for Your Freelance Applications

Sample 1: Freelance Graphic Designer

Dear [Client’s Name],

I was thrilled to come across your job posting for a freelance graphic designer on [Platform/Website Name]. With over 5 years of experience in creating compelling visual content that drives engagement and sales, I am confident in my ability to bring your vision for [Specific Project] to life. My portfolio (link to portfolio) showcases a wide range of projects, including brand identities, web designs, and marketing materials that have successfully elevated my clients’ online presence.

One of my recent projects involved redesigning the website for [Previous Client’s Name], resulting in a 40% increase in user engagement. I believe similar strategies can be applied to [Client’s Project], particularly by focusing on [specific need or requirement mentioned in the job post].

I am proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and have a keen eye for aesthetics that align with current design trends. This ensures that your project will not only meet but exceed your expectations. I am excited about the possibility of collaborating with you and would love to discuss how my skills and experiences align with your goals.

Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to schedule a conversation. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your team’s success.

Warm regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 2: Freelance Content Writer

Hello [Client’s Name],

I came across your need for a skilled content writer to enhance your digital marketing efforts, and I am eager to offer my expertise. With a strong background in SEO and content strategy, I specialize in crafting articles that not only captivate readers but also drive organic traffic. My work has contributed to significant growth in audience engagement and conversion rates for previous clients.

Your project focusing on [Specific Topic or Industry] is of particular interest to me. I have extensive experience writing in this niche, as evidenced by my portfolio [link to portfolio]. For instance, my recent project for [Previous Client’s Name] involved creating a content series that increased their web traffic by 30% in three months.

I understand the importance of integrating keywords naturally while maintaining the flow and quality of the content. I am confident that my strategic approach to content creation can achieve the results you’re looking for with [Client’s Project].

Let’s discuss how we can work together to meet your content goals. I am available for a call or meeting at your convenience. You can reach me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your brand’s success.

Sample 3: Freelance Web Developer

As a professional freelance web developer with over 7 years of experience in building high-performing websites, I was excited to see your posting for the development of [Specific Project]. My expertise in front-end and back-end development, coupled with a deep understanding of user experience design, positions me as a strong candidate to bring your project to fruition.

I have successfully completed similar projects, such as [Describe a Relevant Project], where I increased the client’s website speed by 50% and improved the user interface, leading to a 25% uplift in conversion rates. My technical skill set includes proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP, as well as experience with WordPress and React.

I am particularly drawn to this project because of [mention any specific reason related to the job posting or client’s goals]. I am keen to apply my technical skills and creativity to achieve the outstanding results you expect for [Client’s Project].

I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasms align with your project’s needs. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to arrange a meeting.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of working together to create a dynamic and user-friendly website for your business.

A well-crafted freelance cover letter is a powerful tool in increasing your hire rate. By personalizing each letter, starting with a strong opening line, and clearly articulating your value proposition, you can stand out from the competition. Implementing these 10 hacks will not only improve your freelance cover letters but also enhance your overall approach to securing freelance work. Remember, the goal is to make a memorable impression that convinces potential clients you’re the right freelancer for their project.

By Tom Neale

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How to Write a Freelancer Cover Letter

Freelance work means you’re spared some of the more tedious aspects of the professional world, like micromanaging bosses and nosy coworkers. But it doesn’t completely free you from the formalities associated with landing a job–namely, writing a cover letter. Follow our guide to write a freelance cover letter that will grab a hiring manager’s attention and get them on the phone with you to learn more about your services.

What is a freelancer job letter?

A cover letter is a formal document that tells a hiring manager why you’re qualified for a position. As a freelancer, it’s an important tool for making introductions in the professional world that will help you meet new clients and land contracts. 

In addition to being used when applying for a specific open position, a freelance cover letter can also be used to do outreach when marketing your services. Use it as the first point of contact with leads you’d like to develop. 

Why it is important to send a cover letter

A cover letter does the important job of conveying your positive track record. It uses examples from your previous experience to demonstrate your technical skills, showing a hiring manager your most impressive accomplishments.

As a freelancer, you also need to showcase business skills in addition to your technical specialization. Since you’re not a full-time employee, hiring managers need to feel confident in your ability to work independently and manage your time, among other important soft skills. A cover letter helps you communicate these capabilities.

When should you send a freelancer cover letter

When applying for a job.

Some companies require freelancers to use the same application process to hire full-time employees. Employ a cover letter when responding to an advertised job opening the same way you would if you were applying for an in-house position.

When inquiring about opportunities

A cover letter can be used to reach out to a company you want to work for even if they’re not advertising that they’re hiring. After researching the right person to contact, use a cover letter to connect and sell them on how working with you could benefit the company.

When marketing services

Need to bring in new business? A cover letter can be great for that, too. Use it to establish contact with cold leads you’ve gathered online or to reconnect with contacts you’ve made earlier in your career.

What to include in a freelancer cover letter

Appropriate salutation.

Begin by addressing the person you’re writing to by name. You may be able to find this in the job listing by researching on the company website, or on LinkedIn.

Engaging introduction

Your cover letter should hook the reader from the first sentence, enticing them to read the rest to learn more.

Illustration of your skills

The “meat” of your cover letter should focus on examples demonstrating your skills in action, giving quantifiable outcomes of your work.

The value you bring

Wrap up your cover letter by communicating what makes you different–the unique value you can bring to the department or company.

Call to action

Tell the hiring manager how they can get in touch with you to talk further.

What you should omit

Retelling of your resume.

A cover letter is not just a variation of your resume in story form. It should elaborate on the most important aspects of the job, which will be outlined in the job description.

Sample freelancer job cover letter

Ms. Flores, 

I’m a freelance graphic designer with more than eight years of experience helping brands like yours go from ordinary and forgettable to eye-catching and memorable. I have the industry knowledge and artistic expertise to manage your logo redesign project. 

As the lead designer for Stutts & Affiliates, I developed a new set of visual brand standards and oversaw their implementation across the company. One year after the guidelines were launched, brand recognition in our local market had increased by 37%. 

As an independent contractor, I’ve recently earned Upwork’s Top Rated Plus badge for 16 consecutive months, a distinction awarded to the top 3% of freelancers on the platform. This serves as a record of my strong reputation and dependability delivering quality results on high-value contracts. 

I would welcome the opportunity to learn more about your logo needs. Please reach me at 555-666-7890 at your convenience. 

Warmly, 

Susan Bradshaw

As a freelancer, you should think of your cover letter not just as a professional formality, but as a sales tool. When crafted correctly it can help you make valuable connections, build your portfolio and earn lucrative income.

Reviewed and verified by Pete Newsome

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Freelancer Cover Letter Example

Writing a cover letter can be a difficult task if you are a freelancer. You want to make sure your letter is professional, yet creative and conveys the value you can bring to a potential employer. Crafting a strong cover letter is key to success in the job search process. This guide will provide you with tips and examples to help you write a successful cover letter as a freelancer.

Download the Cover Letter Sample in Word Document – Click Below

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Freelancer Cover Letter Sample

Dear [Employer Name],

I am writing to apply for the [position title] role posted on [website]. I am confident that my diverse and extensive experience working on freelance projects has prepared me for this exciting opportunity.

I have been a freelancer for the past [number of years] years, successfully completing projects for a range of clients and industries. My skill set includes [list relevant skills] and I have built a strong reputation for delivering quality work on time. I have also developed a strong network of contacts in the [industry] industry, which I can leverage to benefit [company name].

I am a highly organized and motivated individual, who understands the importance of client satisfaction. I am comfortable working independently or as part of a team and I am willing to go above and beyond to meet the needs of my clients.

I am excited by the prospect of using my skills and experience to help [company name] succeed and I am confident that I would be an asset to your team. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about my qualifications or my experience.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

[Your Name]

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What should a Freelancer cover letter include?

A freelancer cover letter should provide a succinct overview of the freelancer’s experience, skills, and qualifications in order to entice the prospective employer to read the accompanying resume. The cover letter should also explain why the freelancer is the ideal candidate for the job, and should be tailored to the specific position for which the freelancer is applying.

In general, a freelancer cover letter should include:

• An introduction that briefly outlines the freelancer’s qualifications and experience
• A description of the relevant skills the freelancer brings to the role
• Examples of projects the freelancer has completed, and the results and successes achieved
• A brief explanation of why the freelancer is the ideal candidate for the job
• A call to action that encourages the employer to reach out for an interview
• A professional closing that includes the freelancer’s contact information

Freelancer Cover Letter Writing Tips

Writing a cover letter for a freelance job is essential to get your foot in the door and to be considered for a role. A great cover letter will allow you to demonstrate your qualifications, personality, and enthusiasm for the job you are applying for. Here are some tips to help you write a great cover letter for a freelance job:

• Tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for. Make sure to include the company name and job title in the letter.
• Research the company and mention something specific about the company that you admire. This will demonstrate your dedication to the process and your interest in the position.
• Use the same language and terminology used in the job description to demonstrate that you are a good fit for the role.
• Highlight your skills and experiences that make you the ideal candidate for the job. Make sure to provide examples that showcase your expertise.
• Be sure to include details about why you are passionate about the industry and the specific job you are applying for.
• Keep your cover letter to one page. You want to be concise and to the point.
• Use a professional tone. Make sure to proofread your cover letter and check for any spelling or grammar mistakes.

Following these tips can help you create a great cover letter and will increase your chances of getting the freelance job you are applying for.

Common mistakes to avoid when writing Freelancer Cover letter

Writing a freelancer cover letter can be a difficult task, as it is the first time you are introducing yourself to a potential employer. It is important to make sure that your letter is well- written and effective, so that you can stand out from the competition. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while writing a freelancer cover letter:

• Not addressing the letter to the right person: It is important to make sure that you address the letter to the right person. If the name is not given, you can try to find out the name of the hiring manager and address the letter to them.
• Not following the correct format: A cover letter should follow a professional format, with your contact information at the top, followed by the date, the recipients name and address, and a salutation. Make sure to include the relevant body paragraphs, and end it with a sign- off and your signature.
• Not highlighting your skills and qualifications: A cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your skills and qualifications, so make sure to highlight these in your letter. You should also include any relevant experiences or achievements that make you stand out from the competition.
• Not including a call to action: The cover letter should also include a call to action, such as asking the employer to contact you for an interview. This helps to make sure that they remember you and take the next step in the hiring process.
• Not proofreading: Before you send off your cover letter, make sure to take some time to proofread it. This will help to ensure that it is free of any errors, and that it is written in a professional manner.

Following these tips will help to ensure that your cover letter stands out from the competition and makes a great impression on potential employers. With a well- written and effective cover letter, you should be able to get the job you are applying for.

Key takeaways

Writing a great cover letter as a freelancer can be an intimidating task. It’s how you get your foot in the door, convincing potential clients that you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Crafting an impressive cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd and land that dream project.

Here are some key takeaways for writing an impressive freelancer cover letter:

• Clearly articulate your value proposition. Take the time to explain why you’re the ideal freelancer for the job. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences that make you stand out from the crowd.
• Demonstrate that you understand the project. Show the potential client that you understand the scope of the project and have the experience needed to get the job done.
• Focus on the client’s needs. Demonstrate that you understand the client’s needs and how you can provide them with the best possible solution.
• Keep it to the point. Make sure that your cover letter is short and to the point. Avoid long- winded stories, and focus on the key points that will help you stand out as a freelancer.
• End with a call to action. Make sure that your cover letter ends with a clear call to action. Let the potential client know what you expect from them and how to contact you.

By following these key takeaways, you can craft an impressive cover letter that will help you stand out from the crowd and land that dream project.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.how do i write a cover letter for an freelancer job with no experience.

Writing a cover letter for a freelancer job with no experience can be a daunting task, but it is possible to make an effective case for yourself. Start by introducing yourself and expressing enthusiasm for the position. Then, explain your relevant transferable skills and talk about why you would be a great fit for the job. Make sure to emphasize that although you do not have direct experience in the role, you have the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful. Finally, thank the reader for considering your application and provide your contact information.

2.How do I write a cover letter for an Freelancer job experience?

When writing a cover letter for a freelancer job with experience, the key is to emphasize your unique accomplishments and the value you can bring to the role. Start by outlining your experience and qualifications for the position. Next, provide examples of how you have used your skills and knowledge to achieve success in past roles. Showcase your problem- solving abilities and explain how that can help you succeed in the role. Finally, provide your contact information and thank the reader for considering your application.

3.How can I highlight my accomplishments in Freelancer cover letter?

When highlighting your accomplishments in a freelancer cover letter, the key is to be concise and specific. Start by providing a concise overview of your accomplishments. For example, you might mention that you have successfully completed projects on time, exceeded performance goals, or worked with high- profile clients. Then, provide a specific example of an accomplishment in each category. For instance, you might mention that you successfully managed a project with a tight deadline, improved performance metrics by 10%, or completed a project for a Fortune 500 company.

In addition to this, be sure to check out our cover letter templates , cover letter formats ,  cover letter examples ,  job description , and  career advice  pages for more helpful tips and advice.

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How To Create A Freelance Writer Cover Letter (+Sample)

“First impressions last a lifetime.”

Nowhere is this truer than in the world of freelance writing, where your cover letter is often the first introduction a client has to your professional capabilities. A compelling cover letter can be the gateway to securing coveted projects . However, even seasoned writers sometimes falter when it comes to crafting an engaging cover letter that succinctly captures their skills and enthusiasm. Fear not! I’m here to guide you through the nuances of creating that perfect first impression. Stick around, and I’ll also provide a sample to get you started on the right foot.

How To Write A Freelance Writer Cover Letter

The best rule to follow while writing a cover letter is to keep it simple . You don’t have to get into fancy details and take things out of the way. Clients don’t want to waste their time reading irrelevant information. Let’s talk about the best things to include in your cover letter.

1. Greet the client

What do you do when you first meet someone? You greet them! Although professional greetings typically include addressing the other person “mam” or “sir”, that’s not the case with freelance writer cover letters. For cover letters, you can neither be too casual nor too formal while greeting the client. However, it’s still necessary to keep your tone professional as you’re talking to someone for the first time. You cannot go like, “Hey, what’s up?”. Such sentences will spoil the first impression, as it is extremely casual. So, the best idea is to greet the client with “Hey” or “Hi” and mention the client’s name as well. This will help build a personal connection.

2. Make the client feel the job is for you

When writing a cover letter , use a confident tone and make the client feel you’re the best candidate for the position. To do this, you can start the cover letter with a personable and conversational sentence. A casual tone might do the job here. This first line should tell the client that you’re the one they’re looking for. Also, make it your goal to establish a rapport with the client early on.

3. Introduce yourself

A short introduction is enough to tell the client about you. If they’re interested in knowing more, they’ll ask you in the interview process. Therefore, the introduction should comprise a line or two, specifically about your career as a freelance writer . Going out of the way and including your education, age, location, etc., will sound sloppy unless required. You can introduce yourself as a content writer and tell the client how you came to know about their job post if the situation calls for it. A line or two will do the job!

4. Share your experience

Letting the client know about your experience is one of the most important aspects of a freelance writer ’s cover letter. After all, they need to know about your expertise and professionalism to consider you for the position. Mentioning your track record in the cover letter helps you stand out among the pool of applicants.

Here’s what might count when touting your work experience:

• How long you’ve been in content writing
• The number of articles you’ve written
• The type of content you specialize in
• Your published content

Although technical skills aren’t that necessary in content writing, it’s still better to include your experience with keyword research tools and other implements that come in handy for freelance writing.

5. Stay in line with the job requirements

Even though you already have a great cover letter, it pays to customize it according to your client’s requirements. You might need to make a few edits to make the client feel as if you’ve written the cover letter specifically for them. You can leave a few spaces blank in your general cover letter and fill them in when applying for specific jobs. For example, if the client wants a writer in the pet niche, you can use the blank space in your general cover letter and add “pet niche” while applying for that job. Also, if the client wants a specialist, say in a medical niche , you’ll have an edge against the competition if you’re a doctor, or at least, have an educational background on the subject. All these tricks will help the client think you’re the right match with every line they read!

6. Don’t forget any extra skills!

While your experience is the first thing to make you stand out in the market, your specialized skills that apply to the job come next. If you have some extra skills like keyword research or creative abilities like basic graphic design and lay-outing, it’s best to mention them too. These skills will increase your chances of getting hired as the clients will trust you more.

7. Hook the client with your words

Well, being a professional writer , keeping the readers hooked by the right words won’t be a difficult task, right? With every line the client reads, they should get a value that’ll persuade them to hire you. If they see benefits in what you offer, they’ll take the step forward.

8. Keep it short and to the point

Many writers think cover letters should be verbose with several paragraphs. But they’re wrong. Cover letters are supposed to be concise and direct to the point. You should limit your cover letter to 3-4 paragraphs only. Just think of it this way: clients have probably hundreds of job proposals in line. With so much work already on their list, do they have time to read tediously long cover letters? So, it’s better to make things easy for your client as well. While many people might opt for long cover letters, you should not follow suit, unless it’s required by the client, which rarely does. For example, the client might want to know about the applicant’s detailed experience. In that case, you can make the cover letter longer by adding a few more things. But generally, keep it short and to the point.

9. Wrap it up

As you end up, you can establish a friendly relationship with the client. Start by thanking them and letting them know that applying for the job is a good experience for you and you’ll be happy to get this role. Then, express your willingness to answer whatever other questions they may have, and leave your contact details or how they can reach you.

10. Proofread it!

Proofreading your cover letter is essential. You might come across mistakes you previously overlooked. As a content writer, any grammatical or spelling errors will impede your chances of getting hired. So, make sure your cover letter is free of mistakes. As a practical application of what we discussed above, I prepared a freelance writer cover letter sample for you!

Freelance writer cover letter sample

Dear [client’s name], I was excited to come across your content writing opportunity, and I believe my 5+ years of experience in the field aligns perfectly with your requirements. Throughout my writing journey, I have consistently produced high-quality blog posts, website content, and affiliate reviews. My proficiency doesn’t just stop at creating compelling narratives; I am also well-versed in SEO and utilize state-of-the-art keyword research tools. My articles have consistently achieved top rankings on Google, resulting in a traffic increase of up to 25% for numerous clients. Understanding the ever-evolving digital landscape, I ensure that my writing remains conversational and engaging, keeping readers hooked and conveying the intended message effectively. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of leveraging my skills to drive results for your company. Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how I can be an asset to your team. Warm regards, [Your Name]

Final words

Creating a freelance writer cover letter may seem difficult because of the need to convey substantial information in just a few paragraphs. I trust that the comprehensive guide I presented here, along with a free sample at the end, will help you! Next up, you may want to explore a guide on how to create a freelance writer bio .

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Rafal Reyzer

Hey there, welcome to my blog! I'm a full-time entrepreneur building two companies, a digital marketer, and a content creator with 10+ years of experience. I started RafalReyzer.com to provide you with great tools and strategies you can use to become a proficient digital marketer and achieve freedom through online creativity. My site is a one-stop shop for digital marketers, and content enthusiasts who want to be independent, earn more money, and create beautiful things. Explore my journey here , and don't miss out on my AI Marketing Mastery online course.

Cover Letter for Freelance Writer: How to Create One + Template

Cover Letter for Freelance Writer Customizable Template.

Have you ever wondered how to create a cover letter that gets you that awesome freelance writing job but aren’t sure where to start? While it may seem that creating a cover letter for a freelance writer that showcases your skills is difficult, it’s actually easier than you think!

A cover letter is designed to interest an employer enough that they want to read your resume. And since sometimes hundreds of people apply for online freelance writing jobs, standing out in a sea of applicants can be the one thing that gets you the job. 

So, it’s important to be unique but professional and illustrate with words why you’re the talented writer for them!

Most freelance writers advise you to cold email businesses in your niche to get freelance writing jobs, and that’s the long-term strategy I teach too. BUT, in the beginning, I started with job boards WHILE I did cold pitching, so I submitted a ton of cover letters and resumes.

I’m going to show you a format that you can use for every cover letter so you can just plug in the information for each section.  Then, when you’re finished, you’ll have a cover letter that shows why you’re the best person for the job. 

What is a Cover Letter?

A professional cover letter is a document that you submit with your resume when applying for a job. It should be one page, introduce you, and summarize your employment history while adding wording that matches the things the employer asked for in the ad. 

Essentially, a cover letter is an abbreviated story about your past work experience and the relevant skills that make you right for the job. 

Here you can inject a little of your personality and connect with the person behind the business. 

But each cover letter needs to be unique and tailored to the position you’re applying to. And while there are many cover letter generators and builders, it’s easy to create your own template.

So, if you stick around, I have a free cover letter template for you in just a little bit because being able to write your own cover letter is a good skill to have.

What are the Different Types of Cover Letters?

You may not know it (I didn’t initially), but technically, there are different types of cover letters that you use in various cases. 

Traditional Cover Letter for Job Applications

This cover letter is the one you include with your freelance writer resume when you apply for a job. It’s the one I’m talking about in this blog post.

It’s also known as an email cover letter since many people apply for jobs online today.  

Letter of Interest

A letter of interest or prospecting letter usually is an inquiry into job openings at a specific company. 

Referral Cover Letter

This letter is one when you use the name of a person who referred you to a particular job with a company. These letters are very helpful, especially if the company you’re applying to knows the person referring you.

A cold pitch can be considered a cover letter, too, because it’s a letter you send to a company that doesn’t have any job advertisements. You’re essentially introducing yourself and showing how you can help. 

These are just a few examples of cover letters and now we’re on to the good stuff – Tips for writing a cover letter that gets you the job.

Related: 6 Top Tips for Creating Your Freelance Writing Business Plan + Template

Tips for Writing the Best Cover Letter

Here are some helpful tips on writing a cover letter for a freelance writer, and don’t worry, you don’t need superior writing abilities to create a great one. 

1. Make It Simple and Easy to Read

Keep your freelance writer cover letter simple, brief, and easy to read. The more concise it is, the more likely the employer will actually read it. 

Choose a font that’s perfect for a cover letter and easy to read, such as Lato, Calibri, Georgia, Arial, and other ones that are not too small or fancy. This is not the time to choose an elaborate font that you think is pretty.

Also, don’t make the font smaller than 12 pt and keep the margin to around one inch all around. This format makes it easier for the person looking through hundreds of cover letters to skim yours quickly.

2. Make Each Cover Letter Unique

I know I mentioned this already, but it’s essential. Each job and each business is different. If you want an effective cover letter that connects, don’t send the same one word-for-word to every job you apply for. In fact, doing this may prompt the company to trash yours. 

A unique cover letter demonstrates that you took the time to learn a little about the company and paid attention to the job description . Each business has different goals and different problems. Therefore, customizing your cover letter may get you noticed.

A good number of words to aim for is 300 to 500 or a little more. If your cover letter goes onto a second page, then edit brutally, only keeping the things you need. 

If it’s way under a full page, think of how you relate to the company, what experience this employer would find beneficial, and past jobs that relate. 

3. Keep It on One Page

I talked about this earlier, but it’s another important feature of a successful freelance writing cover letter. The best cover letters that convert well only have a few paragraphs on one page.

If you’re finding it hard to add anything, this may be the time to look for a more entry freelance writing job to build your freelance writing portfolio.

4. Make Your Intro More Interesting

The most common way to start a cover letter for freelance writer jobs is, “I’m writing to apply for (Name of Position).

While it’s simple and straight to the point, it falls flat. I’ve actually used, “I’m excited to apply for the Senior Freelance Writing position at ABC Company.” Then you can go on to connect with them, like explaining that you read one of their articles and point something out to relate to.

Or maybe they won an award recently, and you can compliment them on it. You could also feel strongly about the company’s mission. 

Calling out something related to the company shows that you took the time to check them out, and you may be a good fit for their business. 

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Freelance Writing for Beginners

5. Don’t Repeat What Your Resume Says – Expand On It

Your resume should also be short (not more than two pages), so you can expand on it in your cover letter but make sure you don’t repeat yourself. This is the time to explain how your experience is relevant to the business and job you’re applying for. 

Explain and further detail a related accomplishment or explain how your experience can solve their problems.

6. Use Statistics and Numbers

The cover letter is the place to show evidence of how you’ve helped your former clients. For example, if you have statistics that show your content helped them increase their email list 25 percent, or you helped increase their sales fifteen percent. 

You won’t have statistics often, but you can even talk about the comments on your content or how many times it was shared.

7. Try to Find the Name of a Contact Person

If you can, try to find a point of contact and address your cover letter to them. Sometimes this isn’t easy to do, but places like LinkedIn let you search for specific positions.

You can look on the company website or even call them to find out the information you need. They’ll recognize the time you spent addressing them specifically. 

8. Don’t Point Out the Skills or Experience You’re Lacking

It’s tempting for many people to point out what they’re missing and apologize. Unfortunately, one of the worst things you can do is mention what skills or degrees you don’t have. Instead, highlight the skills and experience you have and why that makes you an excellent fit for the role.

Now, if you have gaps in your employment history, such as you took time off to raise your kids or were laid off, this is the time to explain that gap. First, be brief and then get back to discussing your experience and skills.

9. Be Yourself and Show Your Personality

While you need to be professional in your cover letter for freelance writer jobs, you don’t need to be overly stuffy. Also, don’t use cliches like “team player,” “go-getter,” “to whom it may concern,” “I’m the perfect fit,” I have excellent verbal and written communication skills,” or other similar phrases. 

You don’t want to come across as fake, so showing a bit of your personality is not only okay, it’s good.

10. Use a Cover Letter Template

Before you write your cover letter for freelance writer jobs, look at examples and templates to see how to structure yours. And a cover letter template lets you write and customize your cover letters quickly.

Like I mentioned earlier, you can use my template and example to help you set up your own cover letters easily. 

Now let’s learn how to write a cover letter step by step.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Writing Position Step-by-Step

Sign up for my sample freelance writer cover letter example and template at the end of this article or up above so that you can go through this process step-by-step. 

Your Contact Information

You’ll see at the top of my template there’s room for your information. Your name goes up at the top, and you add your address, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile, plus a link to your portfolio.

I also have a portfolio at ClearVoice, so if you have any other places for your portfolio or hire me page, you could add those to this section. You could add your Skype name too as many people do interviews by Skype.

Just don’t make it too cluttered and link to too many things. Instead, add the most critical information and the links you think are relevant to the job. 

Employer Information

In this area, you want to put the date and then address the HR Manager, Marketing Director, or Vice President – whoever hires the writers for that company. I’ve seen various titles in that role and even talked to the CEOs of small companies who needed a writer.

*Note If this section seems too formal, you can get rid of it.. I wrote a lot of email cover letters, and this would seem awkward in many of those. It depends on the position.

Introduction

Here you introduce yourself and your freelance writing niche. Then, explain why you’re the best person for the job. 

Bring in areas of your life, whether personal or professional, to illustrate why they should choose you. For example, since I wrote blog articles for businesses in the security industry in my first niche, I referred to my 20 years of experience as a police officer.

It helped people see that I had the knowledge and background they needed. 

Also, mention how you can solve their problem with your writing.

Make a Personal Connection

I can go one of two ways next, depending on how you set up the introduction. Sometimes, like when I’m cold pitching , I start by connecting with whoever is reading my cover letter here.

Personal connections really help show that you took the time to do your research on the company and that you relate to them. 

Maybe you connect to their mission or values, or perhaps it’s your dream company, and you remember reading their blog, or you took one of their tips and used it successfully.

Telling a story that connects you to them in your cover letter for freelance writers is powerful. 

If the next logical step in your letter is more about your expertise or qualifications, you can start with those. Then lead into a connection in one of the next to last paragraphs. 

Qualifications and Expertise

For example, I used my 20 years of experience in law enforcement as evidence that I had the knowledge and background necessary to write blog articles for security companies.

I didn’t have a hefty writing resume when I started. But I had a Master’s degree in Intelligence Studies, a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice, and all those years working in law enforcement.

Companies were willing to give me a chance because finding a good writer in that niche is hard. I don’t know many other writers in that niche.

Maybe your previous job as an administrative assistant for a chiropractor will help you write case studies or blog articles for chiropractors and other holistic practitioners. 

There are other ways you can get the freelance writing experienc e you can use on resumes and in your cover letters, like guest posting or contacting a company and offering to write a free article for them.

Normally, I wouldn’t say work for free, but it’s worth it if you can get a portfolio sample and experience. 

This section is also the place to bring up your hard and soft skills  that are assets for the position. 

How to Create a Freelance Writer Cover Letter Template

Creating a template you can use for each job application is simple. I’ve already made one for you! My template makes it easy for you to write your own freelancer cover letter . It’s also the perfect freelancer cover letter example , so you have an idea of how to create your own.

You can use it in Google Docs, or if you’re old school like me, download it into Microsoft Office by selecting FILE in the top menu to the left and scrolling down to download.

You can also create your own template in Microsoft Office. They have a lot of great letter templates. There’s a business letter template in Google Docs that works as a cover letter template too. You can sign up for the template below.

Can you pay someone to write your cover letter?

Yes, you can totally pay someone to write a cover letter for freelance writer jobs for you. But it can get expensive if you apply to a lot of work-from-home jobs as I did initially.

There are also cover letter builders that help you format one, but they don’t write it for you. You can also find other cover letter examples. You may find a different cover letter format works for you too.

Now that you have this handy template, you can do it yourself in under 15 minutes for FREE.

When should I write a cover letter?

Cover letters are common documents potential employers request during the hiring process. Some jobs require a cover letter, and you’ll usually see that in the job advertisement. The hiring manager, employer, or someone else in charge of hiring may request one.

It is also a good idea to write a freelance cover letter if someone referred you to the position you’re applying for or if you’re submitting an application directly to a person and know their name. 

Resume vs. cover letter, what’s the difference?

A resume lists your experience and skills and is purely factual and concise, while a cover letter goes into more detail about your experience and qualifications. 

It’s your chance to tell the employer that you’re the right person for the position. 

Both the freelance writer resume and cover letter are short. The letter should only be one page, while the resume shouldn’t go past two.

Related: 13 Simple Content Writing Tips for Beginners: How to Look Like a Pro When You’re Not

Final Thoughts on a Cover Letter for Freelance Writer

A freelance writer cover letter is an essential part of your resume. Though it’s a separate document, it either interests the employer enough to look at your resume or compels them to toss it in the trash.

Clearly, you want them to consider you further and look at your resume. So, since it’s like a good headline and can make or break you, writing a good cover letter is an important skill.

But you have my cover letter for freelancers to help you create an awesome letter employers actually want to read.

I hope you find some amazing writing gigs, whether that’s business writing or other writing projects. Remember, you don’t need a background to start a freelance writing career.

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Always include a cover letter for a freelance writer with your resume when you apply for writing jobs.

About The Author

Heather Ritchie

4 thoughts on “cover letter for freelance writer: how to create one + template”.

Thanks for this useful article, I am quite bad at writing cover letters and always struggle with them! Readability and keeping it simple are such important points though, even with all other forms of writing! Thanks once again!

Even writers hate writing cover letters but it’s so important! Glad it was useful, thanks for reading Sheryl!

A very helpful post as I am starting to reach out to brands more so sending ‘cold letters’ to them. Great points, and I will be adding my statistics to them now!

I’m glad you loved the tips, Claire. I hate cold emailing people still but it’s so important and it does get easier over time. Thanks for reading!

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Freelance Writer Cover Letter Example

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Start your Freelance Writer cover letter by addressing the recipient by name, if possible. This personal touch shows you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the role. Then, introduce yourself and your profession, and briefly mention your most relevant experience or skills. For example, "As a seasoned freelance writer with over five years of experience in the tech industry, I was excited to come across your job posting." This not only grabs the reader's attention but also gives them an idea of your background and why you're a good fit for the job. Remember, the opening of your cover letter should be compelling and make the reader want to learn more about you.

The best way for Freelance Writers to end a cover letter is by expressing gratitude for the reader's time and consideration, reiterating their interest in the role, and inviting further discussion. For instance, "Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing my writing skills to your team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss this further." This approach shows professionalism and eagerness. It's also important to include your contact information at the end, even if it's already on your resume. This makes it easy for the hiring manager to reach out to you. Lastly, sign off with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name.

Freelance writers should include several key elements in their cover letter to make it effective and engaging. 1. Contact Information: This includes your name, address, phone number, and email address. It's essential to provide this information so potential clients can easily reach you. 2. Introduction: Start with a brief introduction about yourself. Mention your profession as a freelance writer and your interest in the job. 3. Experience and Skills: Highlight your writing experience and skills relevant to the job you're applying for. If you have experience in a specific niche, mention it. For example, if you're applying for a health-related writing job and you have experience in that field, it's worth mentioning. 4. Portfolio: Include a link to your portfolio or samples of your work. This gives potential clients a chance to see your writing style and quality. If you have published work, provide links or references to them. 5. Understanding of the Project: Show that you understand the project by summarizing it in your own words and explaining how you can contribute to it. This shows potential clients that you've read and understood their requirements. 6. Availability: Mention your availability. If you're available for immediate start, say so. If you have other commitments, be honest about when you can start and how much time you can dedicate to the project. 7. Professional Tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout the letter. Even though you're a freelancer, you need to show that you take your work seriously. 8. Closing: End the letter with a professional closing. Thank the reader for their time and express your interest in hearing from them soon. Remember, the cover letter is your chance to make a good first impression. Make it count by showcasing your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the project.

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Try our ai cover letter generator.

Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

14 freelance graphic designer cover letters.

Approved by real hiring managers, these Freelance Graphic Designer cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Table of contents

• Freelance Graphic Designer
• Senior Graphic Designer
• UI/UX Designer
• Junior Graphic Designer
• Graphic Design Freelancer
• Junior Graphic Designer (Freelance)
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Freelance Graphic Designer resume examples

Freelance Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, highlighting relevant skills.

This cover letter immediately showcases the candidate's skills and how they are relevant to the company's needs, making it clear that they are a strong fit for the position.

Specific Accomplishments

By providing specific accomplishments and numbers, the candidate demonstrates their impact and value, helping their application stand out from the competition.

Appreciation and Enthusiasm

Ending the cover letter with a thank you and a mention of enthusiasm for the role leaves a positive impression and shows genuine interest in the position.

Showing a personal connection to the company

This approach shows your long-term interest and connection to the company. It tells me that you're not just looking for any job, but specifically a job with us. This could mean better retention, more passion, and a quicker learning curve.

Quantifiable achievements speak volumes

Specific numbers show the impact of your work, which is extremely important in a creative field like graphic design. Rather than vaguely mentioning 'successful projects', drawing attention to tangible results helps create a picture of what you could accomplish with us.

Expressing enthusiasm about the role

When you express excitement about what the role can offer, it shows that you've thought about what this job could mean for your career and personal growth. It reassures us that you're motivated and enthusiastic about the potential of joining our team.

Showcasing your design philosophy

When you share your design mantra, it gives prospective employers a peek into your creative process. It's a personal touch that can pique interest and make them want to see your portfolio. Plus, when you tie this philosophy to concrete results, it shows you can put thought into action.

Expressing genuine enthusiasm

A lot of cover letters express excitement about a potential role, but yours stands out because you don't just focus on the prestige of the company. You also highlight specific initiatives that align with your values. This shows you've done your research and that you're genuinely invested in the company's mission.

Highlighting a unique fusion of skills

You're not just a designer; you're a designer with a unique blend of creativity, experience, and passion. By explicitly stating this, you emphasize that you're not just another candidate - you're someone who brings a unique perspective to the table.

Being courteous and forward-looking

Gratitude is a fantastic tone to end your letter. It shows your appreciation for the reader's time and sets a positive tone for potential interviews. Also, expressing your enthusiasm to discuss how you can contribute suggests confidence in your ability and readiness to take on the role.

Show your passion for the role

Expressing excitement about the job and the company's mission can make you seem like a more engaged and motivated candidate.

Highlight your relevant experience

Demonstrating how your past work aligns with the job you're applying for shows that you're capable and understand the role's requirements.

Explain your unique value

Discussing what makes your approach to design unique can help you stand out from other candidates.

Emphasize willingness to learn

Showing eagerness to grow and adapt to new technologies indicates that you're a forward-thinking professional.

End with a strong closing

Reiterating your excitement about the opportunity leaves a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

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Communicate your motivation for freelance graphic design

Talking about your career and how it aligns with Upwork's mission immediately shows your understanding of the platform and your enthusiasm for contributing to its goals. This is key for us as it demonstrates strategic thinking.

Showcase your diverse design experience

Detailing your experience with a variety of clients underlines your adaptability and wide range of skills. This is important for us because versatility is highly valued in freelance roles.

Emphasize your results-driven design approach

Stressing that your designs not only look good but also achieve tangible outcomes for clients tells us you're a designer who focuses on impact, which is exactly what we're looking for.

Highlight the power of design in your vision

When you speak about design's ability to connect people and your excitement about doing this at Upwork, it signals that you're a thoughtful designer who sees the bigger picture.

Close with appreciation and forward-looking enthusiasm

Ending your letter by thanking us and expressing eagerness to join the team leaves a lasting, positive impression, making us more inclined to consider you seriously for the role.

Show your passion for graphic design

When you express your excitement for the company's mission right at the beginning, it sets a positive tone for the rest of your cover letter.

Highlight your diverse client experience

Sharing your experience with a variety of clients not only showcases your adaptability but also your ability to meet the needs of different industries.

Connect creativity with strategic impact

Mentioning how your designs led to a significant increase in sales demonstrates that you understand the business value of your work, making you a more attractive candidate.

Express eagerness to learn and contribute

Showing your willingness to both offer your skills and grow from others emphasizes that you're a team player who values growth and innovation.

Close with gratitude and vision

Thanking the employer for considering your application while reiterating your desire to contribute to their success leaves a lasting, positive impression.

Senior Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example

Linking personal stories to professional inspiration.

Sharing a personal anecdote about how the company inspired you can be a powerful tool. It not only shows your passion for the field but also tells me that you understand and appreciate the creative vision of the company.

Highlighting leadership skills along with success

This sentence serves two purposes - demonstrating your design skills and highlighting your leadership abilities. It shows that you can drive a team to achieve impressive results, a crucial trait for a senior role.

Demonstrating the impact of your designs

You've done more than just create pretty pictures; you've used design to engage users and improve learning outcomes. By giving concrete examples of how your work led to increased engagement and improved test scores, you show that your designs have a far-reaching impact.

Linking personal passions with role responsibilities

Sharing your passion for storytelling and design paints a picture of a candidate whose personal and professional interests align perfectly with the role. This can be a powerful motivator and suggests you'll bring enthusiasm and dedication to your work.

Offering collaboration and experience

You're not just applying for a job; you're offering to bring your wealth of experience to the table and wanting to collaborate. This proactive attitude can be appealing to employers, as it suggests you're a team player who's eager to contribute from day one.

Conveying ambition and respect for the company

By expressing your desire to contribute to Pixar's legacy, you show ambition and a high regard for the company. This signals a serious candidate who is ready to make significant contributions and indicates a long-term commitment to the team and its mission.

Show personal connection to the company

Sharing your admiration and use of the company's products can create a personal connection and show genuine interest.

Detail your achievements

Providing specific examples of your success in past roles demonstrates your impact and what you can bring to the team.

Communicate your strategic approach

Explaining how you use design strategically to achieve business goals can highlight your understanding of design's role in broader business contexts.

Express your ambition to innovate

Showing that you're driven by the same goals as the company can make you seem like a good cultural and mission fit.

Convey gratitude and enthusiasm

Thanking the hiring manager for their time and expressing enthusiasm about the role can make a positive final impression.

When you express admiration for a company's mission, it not only shows that you have a genuine interest in their work but also that you share their values. This can make a strong impression on hiring managers.

Highlight your project achievements

Talking about specific projects where you've made a significant impact, such as leading a rebranding effort, clearly demonstrates your capability to handle important tasks and create value for your clients or employers.

Blend creativity with strategy in design

Emphasizing your ability to combine creative thinking with strategic planning illustrates your understanding of design not just as an art form, but as a tool for achieving business objectives. This is highly valued in senior roles.

Express eagerness to contribute

Showing enthusiasm about joining a team and contributing to its success indicates that you're ready to be a proactive member of the community, which is key for collaborative environments.

UI/UX Designer Cover Letter Example

Show your passion for ui/ux design.

When you share your excitement about the role and the company's mission, it makes us see your genuine interest. This is good because we want someone who cares deeply about their work and our goals.

Quantify your design success

Telling us how your design improved business results, like increasing order values, is very helpful. It shows you understand that good design is not just about looks but about making things work better for users and the company.

Highlight your user-centered design approach

Mentioning your focus on users and your skills in key areas like prototyping and testing tells us you have the right mindset and tools to contribute to our team effectively.

Connect your beliefs with the company's

When you talk about how your belief in teamwork and efficiency aligns with ours, it suggests you'll fit well with our culture and help us achieve our mission.

By thanking us for considering your application and sharing your excitement about the opportunity, you leave a positive impression, showing you're not just looking for any job but are enthusiastic about this specific role.

Junior Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example

Align your values with the company.

Stating how your personal values and aspirations match the company's mission demonstrates that you're not just looking for any job, but a role where you can truly make a difference and grow professionally.

Describe impactful design experiences

Providing examples of your work, especially in a volunteering context, showcases your ability to use design for a good cause, highlighting both your skills and your character.

Tell stories through your designs

Expressing your love for storytelling through visuals reveals your understanding of graphic design as a powerful communication tool, which is crucial for creating meaningful and engaging content.

Show enthusiasm for learning and growing

Mentioning your eagerness to learn from experienced professionals and contribute your skills indicates that you're not only interested in personal growth but also in adding value to the team.

Thank the employer in your closing

Ending your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering your application is a polite way to conclude, showing respect and appreciation for the opportunity.

Graphic Design Freelancer Cover Letter Example

Start with a strong hook.

Your opening line that captures your fascination with the company's mission immediately grabs the reader's attention and sets you apart.

Demonstrate your versatility in design

Detailing your work across different types of projects not only highlights your broad skillset but also your ability to tackle various design challenges.

Showcase your enthusiasm for diverse challenges

Emphasizing your excitement for working with a wide range of clients suggests you're adaptable and eager to face new creative challenges.

Emphasize your communication and versatility

Stating your confidence in managing diverse client needs and maintaining strong relationships suggests you're not just a designer but a valuable team player.

End on a hopeful and professional note

Closing with thanks and expressing eagerness about the potential to join the team reflects your professionalism and genuine interest in the opportunity.

Junior Graphic Designer (Freelance) Cover Letter Example

Show your enthusiasm for the junior graphic designer role.

Starting your cover letter by expressing your excitement for the job opportunity makes a strong first impression. It shows you're not just looking for any job, but you're specifically interested in working with them.

Highlight your graphic design experience

When you mention your degree and practical experience right away, it provides a solid foundation for your skills and expertise. It's important to let employers know you have both the theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience to back it up.

Demonstrate how you align with the company's mission

Connecting your personal passion with the company's goal is a powerful way to show you're not just a good fit for the role but also for the company culture. It tells me you've done your homework and understand what we're all about.

Express your desire to contribute creatively

Eagerness to bring new ideas and perspectives signals that you're not just there to do a job but to make a difference. It's refreshing to see candidates who are ready to innovate and push boundaries.

Close with a strong call to action

Ending your cover letter on a positive note, looking forward to the next steps, shows confidence and leaves a memorable impression. It's good to make it clear you're excited about the possibility of working together.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

Cover Letters For Jobs Similar To Freelance Graphic Designer Roles

• Creative Graphic Designer Cover Letter Guide
• Freelance Graphic Designer Cover Letter Guide
• Graphic Design Manager Cover Letter Guide
• Graphic Designer Cover Letter Guide
• Minimalist Graphic Designer Cover Letter Guide
• Motion Graphic Designer Cover Letter Guide
• Senior Graphic Designer / Director of Graphic Design Cover Letter Guide

Other Design Cover Letters

• Architect / Architecture Cover Letter Guide
• Art Director Cover Letter Guide
• Design Director Cover Letter Guide
• Game Design Cover Letter Guide
• Interior Designer Cover Letter Guide
• Production Assistant Cover Letter Guide
• UX Designer (User Experience Designer) Cover Letter Guide
• UX Researcher Cover Letter Guide

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