what to include in nursing cover letter

How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter

Keith Carlson

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated March 7, 2023

Reviewed by

Shrilekha Deshaies

Contributing Reviewer

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A nursing cover letter is still crucial in the job application process. It’s often the first impression a potential employer will have of you. A cover letter is a chance to tell your story and call attention to aspects of your resume you want a reviewer to notice.

It’s also a chance to explain to an employer why you want to work for them, what you know about them, and why you’re an ideal candidate. A strong cover letter can tip the balance in your favor, helping you stand out from the competition and land an interview.

In the following guide, we walk you through writing a strong nursing cover letter, mistakes to avoid, and real-world tips that will keep you focused. Check out our downloadable nursing cover letter template and a sample letter to get started. Once you master the process, you’ll be writing winning cover letters in no time.

4 Steps to Write Your Nursing Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter can feel overwhelming for many nurses, especially because it’s difficult to know what to say, how much to reiterate what’s on your resume , and what information to include or not. A cover letter is an opportunity to explain aspects of your professional or personal history that a resume can’t always get across. Your passion and interests come through, along with your ability to communicate clearly. Review the following steps to write a stand-out cover letter. Feel free to use our sample letter and downloadable template. The cover letter is a significant part of convincing employers that they absolutely need to meet you!

Create a Header with Your Contact Information

Introduce yourself and note the position you’re applying for in the opening paragraph, highlight your skills and the reasons you want to work for this employer, write a closing paragraph and restate your interest, 7 mistakes to avoid in your nursing cover letter.

• Submitting Spelling and Grammar Errors: Nursing requires excellent documentation and attention to detail. Grammatical errors are unprofessional, and they can paint a picture of someone who doesn’t value attention to detail. Many resume reviewers will likely pass on a candidate whose resume and/or cover letter contain errors.
• Copying Your Resume: Your nursing cover letter can highlight aspects of your resume , but it shouldn’t be a verbatim copy. Find creative ways to underscore your key characteristics, skills, or experiences without repetition.
• Using Incorrect or Inconsistent Format: It’s best practice for your cover letter and resume to match in terms of design, font, and format. This creates a branded, visually cohesive application package.
• Forgetting to Tie Your Qualifications to the Position: Your cover letter should be targeted and specific, addressing the position you’re applying for and its qualifications, skills, and responsibilities. If you don't tie your qualifications to the job in question, that makes a weak case for you getting an interview.
• Failing to Address the Letter to a Specific Person or Department: Many postings fail to provide the name of an individual or a department to address in your letter. If they provide this information, use it. If they don’t, you can use the generic “Hiring Manager” or “Hiring Committee”.
• Starting Every Paragraph with “I”: Be creative in finding different ways to begin each paragraph (see our sample letter for examples). If two paragraphs begin with “I”, that’s OK, but no more than that.

Tips from Nurses on Writing Your Nursing Cover Letter

Research potential employers, explain relevant skills that meet the position's qualifications, include your soft skills, highlight your best qualities, demonstrate your passion, showcase your ability and willingness to learn, check for errors, frequently asked questions about nursing cover letters, what should a nurse cover letter include.

A nurse cover letter should include a header with your name, credentials, and contact information, plus the receiver's contact information. The body of the letter should specifically address the position you’re applying for, and how you can fulfill the characteristics, credentials, skills, knowledge, and expertise required.

What should a nurse cover letter not include?

Your cover letter does not need to include phrases like, “My references are available upon request”; “Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns”; or “I can be contacted via email at _____________or via phone at _____________.” These are all givens, and if your contact information is in your header, there’s no need to say it again.

What's the difference between a new grad nurse cover letter and an experienced nurse cover letter?

A new grad nurse cover letter can't demonstrate the level of skill, expertise, and knowledge as a seasoned nurse. New grads haven’t accumulated years of nursing experience, but they have their academic and clinical performance, enthusiasm, passion, and related healthcare experience to share, whether paid or volunteer. When employers advertise new grad positions, they understand that new grad resumes and letters can't reflect the resumes of experienced nurses.

Are nursing cover letters necessary?

In these days of online applications, a cover letter may be optional, meaning that applicants can upload a cover letter if they choose to. For some applications, a cover letter will be required. Consider this: if a cover letter is optional, why not go the extra mile and write a strong one? If your resume and experience are comparable to another candidate’s, your cover letter could give you the edge. After all, a resume can’t by nature express much personality, but a cover letter can. So, make a strong impression with a well-crafted letter, whether it’s required or not.

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Download our cover letter template (DOCX, 14KB)

Name and Credentials

Town, State | Phone | Email

Personalized LinkedIn profile URL (optional)

Dept and/or contact person Facility or organization Street Town, State, Zip

Dear ________________:

Paragraph 1: Begin by stating the position for which you are applying. Say something about the organization to demonstrate that you’ve done your homework and understand what they’re all about, and that this letter is not at all “cookie-cutter” in nature.

Paragraph 2: Share select highlights of your career, expertise, experience, skills, or personal characteristics that are directly applicable to this position and/or this employer. You can emphasize something from your resume that you want them to make note of, as long as you don’t use exactly the same language as your resume, which is redundant.

Paragraph 3: This is a good place to highlight some of your “soft skills” (e.g., communication, emotional intelligence, relational intelligence, patient education, compassion, empathy, etc).

Paragraph 4: Here you can call attention to your computer skills, EMR experience, etc., as well as any other tech skills worth mentioning.

Closing paragraph: Tie the letter together, reiterate your interest, and express your enthusiastic desire to have the opportunity to meet to discuss your experience and the position further.

Sincerely, Your name and credentials

Sample Nursing Cover Letter

Miguel Schwartzkoffnian, BSN, RN

Annabelle, HA | 000-000-1000 | [email protected]

LinkedIn.com/in/MichaelSchwartzfoffianbsnrn

April 3, 2023

Department of Nursing Recruitment University of Tabula Rasa Medical Center 301 Rasa Drive Glen Tabularea, MOO 22222

Dear Nursing Recruitment Department:

As a caring and dedicated summa cum laude graduate of Adelphi University’s BSN program, please accept my enthusiastic interest in the Registered Nurse - Respiratory/Intermediate Care position posted on your website. I am both personally and professionally aligned with the values that are a very clear aspect of your organization’s mission. From your “Power of Caring” funding of your expanded Outpatient Care Center to your “Next Generation” initiative, I can clearly see the forward-thinking philosophy underlying UTRMC and its reputation as an innovative facility and community member.

During my education, I thrived in clinical practice where I received positive preceptor feedback following each rotation. I am highly coachable, and as you can see from my resume, I bring more than six years’ related healthcare experience as both an EMT and CNA. I am already well-versed in code blue response, Foley catheter insertion and care, venipuncture, ECG interpretation, and non-complex wound care. Comfortable in new settings, I am not afraid to ask questions to enhance my learning and improve the quality of care I deliver to patients and their families. I thrive in multidisciplinary environments, and I use my highly-developed communication skills and emotional and relational intelligence to foster a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among my colleagues, and nurse-patient relationships built on trust.

As a digital native and quick learner, I am highly competent using the Epic and Cerner EMRs and Microsoft Office Suite, and I have full confidence in my natural curiosity and powers of critical thinking in relation to learning new technologies and digital interfaces.

I have a great deal to contribute as a member of the UTRMC community of clinicians. I look forward to discussing the intersection of my skills and experience with the needs of your inspiring organization that embraces its role beyond the actual facility and into the surrounding community it serves.

Sincerely, Miguel Schwartzkoffnian, BSN, RN

Page last reviewed on February 24, 2023

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How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter That Stands Out + Examples

• Do You Need One?
• What to Include
• 6 Common Mistakes
• Cover Letter Template
• Cover Letter Example
• Don't Forget It!

You're not alone if you think writing a nursing cover letter is intimidating. However, a great cover letter may be the difference between landing the job or having your application ignored. 

Keep reading for expert advice regarding the importance and benefits of writing a nursing cover letter and common mistakes to avoid, and some examples you can use!

Do You Need Nursing Cover Letters?  

The cover letter is your chance to highlight your past experience and let the hiring manager know why you believe you're the best fit for the role. The hiring manager will quickly notice you are motivated and enthusiastic about the job prospect. 

It's also your first chance to show your articulation and communication skills. A well-crafted cover letter makes an impression that instantly sets you apart from other applicants. 

Benefits of Writing a Nursing Cover Letter

Most candidates don't take the time to create a cover letter. In the world of online applications, attaching one is usually optional and feels like extra work. So many applicants fill out the bare minimum and move on to the next job posting. 

Stand out from the competition - Write a killer cover letter. 

Why you should take the time to create your cover letter

• Increase chances your application is reviewed
• Highlight your accomplishments, skills, and qualifications
• Showcase your personality and communication skills
• Make a great first impression
• Show your interest in the position/company

Your resume is important, but the cover letter sets the tone for your entire application. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Nursing Resumes to learn more about current resume etiquette and trends.

Writing a nursing resume can feel overwhelming. It’s no easy task! Nowadays, nursing resumes must be able to pass through resume reading software before it even reaches a recruiter. That’s why we’ve put together THREE nurse resume templates to cater to your unique professional needs and employment situation.

By clicking download, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. You may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

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What to Include in Your Nursing Cover Letter

Did you learn how to write business letters in school? Have you forgotten everything about how to format them? You’re not alone - we’ve got your back here at Nurse.org. 

Let's go through the basic format of a nursing cover letter that can be used at any stage of your professional development, including entry-level and specialty changes. 

The header is simple; it’s just contact information for both you and the hiring organization. The basic format is:

Phone Number

Email Address

Street Address  

• City, ST, Zip Code

Hiring Manager (Use name if possible)

• Healthcare Organization 

The best advice here is to find out the hiring manager's name so you can personalize the greeting. 

How to find out the name of a hiring manager:

• If you have a connection in the organization, ask who will review your application. 
• Review the company website or LinkedIn to find the manager or director for the position. 
• Call the Human resources department. This can be hit or miss, but it's worth a shot if you haven't found the right person. 

Generic greetings should be your last resort. If you've tried and still can't find the name, "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Nursing Recruitment Team" will work. You'll wow them with the rest of your letter. 

Paragraph #1: Opening

In the opening paragraph, identify the position you're applying for and briefly state why you're a good fit. HR and hiring managers often look at resumes for several positions, so this is a chance to remind them that you are applying for X opportunity. It signals the hiring manager to read the rest of your letter and resume with that position in mind. 

Paragraph #2: Background & Qualifications

Your qualifications paragraph is the most important one in your cover letter. Briefly summarize your background, skills, and traits that make you the perfect candidate for the position in about 2-3. Use keywords from the posted job description that complement your skill set. You can also use bullet points to make this paragraph stand out.

Note for new grads: All of your background experience is valuable. Suppose you don't have healthcare-specific work experience. In that case, you can highlight customer service skills, eagerness to learn new processes, and highlights from nursing school clinical experiences. 

Notes for nurses transitioning to new specialties: Give a brief career synopsis and highlight the skills you think will best transfer to the new specialty. Emphasize strengths that align with the job position posting. 

Paragraph #3: Compliment the Organization

Your final paragraph shows you're serious about the position. Research the organization and state why you want to join their team. You can find great information and keywords to use on the job post or their website.

Closing the Nursing Cover Letter

Your closing sentence is brief and invites further conversation. Restate your contact information and Invite the hiring manager to discuss the role further. Then, add in a final closure and your signature. Congratulations,  your letter is complete!

The closure should be respectful and professional. Examples include

• Respectfully
• Sincerely yours
• Yours truly
• With warm regards
• Best regards

How to List Your Nursing Credentials

It’s easy to get confused about how to list your nursing credentials. The correct way to sign your name with credentials is:

[Name], [Highest level of education completed], [License type], [Certifications]

Jane completed an associate degree and is a Registered Nurse without other certifications (yet). Her signature is Jane Doe, ADN, RN

If Jane goes on to complete her BSN and Pediatric certification, her signature changes to: Jane Doe, BSN, RN, CPN

We’ve got templates below to help you get started, but first let’s review some common mistakes you should avoid. 

6 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your Nursing Cover Letter   

Writing a great nursing cover letter may seem daunting, but the process does get easier with practice. Here are a few common nursing cover letter mistakes and pitfalls to avoid.

1. Leaving Grammatical Errors and Typos

Most programs have some spell and grammar check capabilities, but don't rely on them alone. Websites such as grammarly.com offer free proofreading and grammar review. Make sure to review that all names are correctly spelled.

2. Using a Generic Greeting

Do your research to find the hiring manager’s name. If you can’t find it, open the letter with “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid “To whom it may concern” at all costs. 

3. Forgetting to add Keywords

Read the job description carefully. Find keywords that relate to your experience and use them throughout the cover letter. 

4. Not Following Instructions

Follow any specific requirements listed in the job description or application website. If the listing says to upload your cover letter as a PDF, save your document as a PDF before submitting it. 

This is your first test to see if you pay attention to detail and follow directions. Don't fail before you even get started!!

5. Using the Same Cover Letter for Different Jobs

Each position and organization are unique; don’t repeatedly use the same letter. However, you also don't need to start from scratch each time! 

Save your cover letters as you write them so they’re available to edit next time. Highlight different skills if needed. Make it personal to the new position by including keywords from the job listing.

6. Forgetting to Proofread and Edit

Notice how #1 and #6 are almost identical? It’s on purpose - proofreading is the most critical aspect of writing. Here are some tips to help you make sure your cover letter is perfect:

Read your letter out loud. Does it make sense? Do any of the sentences sound strange when you read them out loud? 

Walk away . Putting a bit of time between writing and finalizing your edits can make a world of difference in the final draft.

Enlist a friend. Ask a  trusted friend, career advisor, or faculty member to read the letter before you hit send. 

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Here’s everything your nursing cover letter should include.

City, State, Zip Code

Healthcare Organization Name

Telephone Number

Email address

Dear (Mr. Mrs. Ms.) ________,

Dear Nursing Recruitment Team,

Opening: 2-3 sentences that express your excitement. Name the exact position you are applying for and the organization. Briefly state why you are the best fit. 

Background & Qualifications: 2-4 sentences to highlight your applicable certifications, achievements and strengths. You may use bullet format to draw attention to this section.

Compliment the Organization: 2-3 sentences to show you’ve researched the organization and position. Highlight organizational values that align with yours.

Closing sentence: Thank the hiring manager for taking time to review your application. Invite them to contact you to arrange an interview. 

With warm regards, 

Your Name, (credentials)

Example Nursing Cover Letter

(718) 555–0100

[email protected]

123 Main Street; 

City, ST 12345

August 01, 2023

Hailey Johnson

Human Resources

Mercy Healthcare

123 Broadway Ave;  City, ST 12300

Dear Ms. Hailey Johnson,

I am excited to apply for the Registered Nurse residency program at Mercy Healthcare. I recently graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and believe the skills and knowledge gained during nursing school will be highly valuable to your team.

I received excellent clinical reviews throughout nursing school and graduated with honors. I have excellent time-management skills and look forward to further developing hands-on skills through clinical practice. My ability to coordinate tasks and collaborate with others allows me to provide excellent patient care. 

Mercy Healthcare is well-known for patient-centered care and shared governance. I look forward to making a difference in patients’ lives through compassion, dedication, and excellent nursing care. 

Thank you for considering my application. I can be reached at (718) 555–0100 or [email protected] to arrange an interview and further discuss my qualifications.

Ava Smith, BSN, RN

Don't Forget Your Cover Letter!

Always, always, always attach a cover letter to your job applications. These templates should help you get started. Attaching a cover letter immediately sets you apart from the candidates who do not take the time to write or attach one. Highlight your strengths and show the hiring manager that you’re serious about the position. Then start prepping your answers to  common interview questions for when you get that call.

Joleen Sams is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in the Kansas City metro area. During her 10-year RN career, Joleen worked in NICU, inpatient pediatrics, and regulatory compliance. Since graduating with her MSN-FNP in 2019, she has worked in urgent care and nursing administration. Connect with Joleen on LinkedIn or see more of her writing on her website.

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How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter (2024 Guide + Templates)

You found the perfect nursing job but now you need to cover letter.

In this ultimate guide, learn how to write a cover letter for nursing, step by step, with examples for every nursing situation. We’ve got you covered whether you are a new graduate with no experience or a veteran nurse with years of experience under your scrubs. At the end, we’ll even give you full examples of sample nursing cover letters.

The Importance of a Well-Written Nursing Cover Letter

Table of Contents

Here is why a good cover letter is so important:

• Stand out from the crowd: With numerous applicants vying for coveted nursing positions, a strong cover letter can set you apart and make a lasting impression.
• Show your passion: A well-crafted cover letter allows you to showcase your genuine enthusiasm for the field of nursing, demonstrating your dedication to providing quality care.
• Highlight relevant skills and experiences: Use this opportunity to succinctly outline key qualifications that make you an ideal candidate for the job. A compelling cover letter highlights your unique abilities and demonstrates how they align with the specific requirements of the role.

In essence, a carefully written nursing cover letter can be crucial in securing interviews and ultimately landing your dream nursing position. Take the time to craft one that effectively communicates your skills, experiences, and passion within concise yet powerful sentences.

Understanding the Structure and Format of a Nursing Cover Letter

Like most writing, a nursing cover letter is built from a structure:

Introduction

In your nursing cover letter, begin with a clear and succinct introduction that states your interest in the position.

Mention any personal connection or previous experience with the hospital or organization you are applying to, as this can make your application stand out.

Body Paragraphs

Next, use the body paragraphs to highlight your relevant skills and experiences.

Focus on discussing specific examples where you have demonstrated these skills in past roles. Include information about your education, certifications, and any specialized training or clinical experience that makes you well-suited for the role.

• Mention why you are interested in working at their particular institution.
• Highlight any specific qualifications they have listed in the job description.
• Explain how your skills align with their needs and demonstrate why you would be an asset to their team.

Closing Statement

In closing, reiterate your interest in the position and express gratitude for considering your application.

Provide contact information where they can reach you if they need further information or want to schedule an interview. Remember to sign off using a professional closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.”

Key Elements to Include in Your Nursing Cover Letter

When putting your nursing cover letter together, focus on these key elements:

• Greeting:  Begin your nursing cover letter with a professional greeting and introduce yourself. Mention the specific position you are applying for and briefly explain why you are interested in it.
• Relevant Skills and Experience:  Highlight your relevant skills, qualifications, and experience that make you a strong candidate for the nursing position. Link these skills to specific examples of how you have successfully applied them in previous roles or educational settings.
• Passion for Patient Care:  Express your genuine passion for caring for patients and providing high-quality healthcare services. Emphasize your commitment to promoting patient well-being, safety, and comfort.
• Understanding of Healthcare Policies & Procedures:  Demonstrate your knowledge of healthcare policies, regulations, protocols, and best practices relevant to the role you are applying for. This shows employers that you can effectively navigate complex medical environments while adhering to industry standards.
• Teamwork Abilities:  Explain how well you work within interdisciplinary teams by showcasing examples where collaboration was essential to achieving positive patient outcomes or participating in quality improvement initiatives.
• End on High Note: Close on a positive note by expressing gratitude for considering your application and reiterating your interest in the opportunity to contribute as part of their nursing team.

Tailor Your Nursing Cover Letter to the Job Description

One of the best ways to write a great nursing cover letter is to customize it to the job description:

• Analyze the job description:  Read through the job description carefully and highlight key requirements and qualifications. This will help you understand what the employer is specifically looking for in a candidate.
• Match your skills and experiences:  Once you have identified the key requirements, tailor your cover letter to showcase how your skills, experiences, and achievements align with them. Use concrete examples from your past work or clinical experiences to demonstrate your ability to meet those needs.
• Provide examples of success: Instead of simply stating that you have certain skills or experience, provide specific examples of how you have successfully used them in previous roles. This will make your claims more credible and relevant.

Next, you want to highlight your closely related achievements.

Highlight Relevant Achievements:

• Utilize bullet points or short paragraphs to effectively communicate relevant accomplishments that highlight how you meet each requirement mentioned in the job description.
• Include specific details such as patient outcomes improved, awards received, or certifications earned.
• Make sure these examples emphasize qualities like compassion, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities that are crucial in nursing roles.

By closely aligning your cover letter with the job description, you show potential employers that you have taken time and care in considering their needs while highlighting why you would be an excellent fit for their team.

Tips for Writing an Attention-Grabbing Opening Paragraph

Crafting an attention-grabbing opening paragraph for your nursing cover letter can make all the difference in getting noticed by potential employers.

Here are a few tips to help you kickstart your letter with impact:

• Start with a compelling statement : Begin your cover letter with a strong and captivating sentence that highlights your passion for nursing or your relevant experience. For example, “With a strong commitment and a caring attitude, coupled with five years in critical care, I am thrilled to bring my skills to XYZ Hospital.”
• Show enthusiasm and knowledge: Express genuine excitement for the position and showcase your understanding of the healthcare industry. Demonstrate how you have researched the organization and align its values with yours.
• Grab attention with achievements: Mention specific accomplishments or accolades that demonstrate your competency and dedication as a nurse. This could include certifications, awards, or measurable improvements in patient outcomes.

By starting off on the right foot, you can instantly capture the reader’s interest and compel them to continue reading about why you are an ideal candidate for their nursing role.

Showcase Your Passion for Nursing in the Body of the Cover Letter

In the body, throw in your passion and commitment to nursing:

• Highlight your relevant experience:  Begin by discussing any previous healthcare or nursing experiences you have had. Emphasize how these experiences have shaped your passion for nursing and developed your skills in patient care.
• Share personal stories:  Share anecdotes or stories that showcase your commitment to helping others and making a difference in their lives. Explain how these experiences have motivated you to pursue a career in nursing.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the field:  Show that you are well-informed about current issues, trends, and advancements in nursing. Discuss specific areas of interest or specialties within nursing that excite you and explain why they align with your passion.
• Express eagerness to learn and grow:  Convey a strong desire for professional development and lifelong learning. Mention any certifications, workshops, or continuing education programs you plan to pursue to enhance your skills as a nurse.
• Connect with the organization’s mission: Research the healthcare institution or organization where you are applying and highlight aspects of their mission statement or values that resonate with your own goals as a nurse.

Remember to keep each paragraph focused on one main idea, utilizing brief sentences that clearly convey your enthusiasm for nursing while showcasing your understanding of the profession.

Here is a good video about how to write a nursing cover letter:

Addressing Gaps in Your Nursing Experience or Employment History

No one is perfect (certainly not me), so if you have gaps in your employment or skill set, here is how to best handle them.

Addressing Employment Gaps

When addressing gaps in your nursing experience or employment history, it’s important to be honest and transparent.

Describe any extended periods of unemployment by stating the reason for your absence from work, such as furthering your education, taking care of family members, or personal health reasons. Highlight any skills or knowledge gained during these breaks that are applicable to the nursing field.

Addressing Skill Gaps

If you have limited experience with certain areas of nursing, acknowledge this in a positive light and express your willingness to learn and acquire those skills.

Emphasize any related coursework or training you have completed.

Don’t leave out any clinical rotations or internships where you were able to practice these skills even if not in a professional setting.

• Discuss how you plan to continue expanding your knowledge and expertise through ongoing education opportunities.
• Highlight any certifications or licenses relevant to the specific role you are applying for.
• Mention any volunteer work or unpaid experiences that provided exposure to different aspects of nursing.

By addressing gaps in employment history or skill set proactively in your cover letter, potential employers will understand that while there may have been breaks in your career progression, you remain committed to growing professionally and providing exceptional care.

Dos and Don’ts for a Successful Nursing Cover Letter

Now let’s go over some helpful dos and don’ts for writing a successful nursing cover letter.

Do: Tailor your cover letter to the specific nursing job you are applying for

Research the company you are applying to and customize your cover letter accordingly. Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments that make you a strong candidate for the position.

Don’t: Use generic or cliché language in your cover letter

Avoid using common phrases like “I am writing to express my interest” or “I have excellent communication skills.” Instead, focus on specific examples or anecdotes that demonstrate your qualifications and experiences as a nurse.

Do: Start with a powerful introduction that grabs attention

Use an engaging opening sentence that immediately captivates the reader’s interest. Incorporate statistics, patient success stories, or personal experiences to showcase your passion for nursing.

Don’t: Include unnecessary information in your cover letter

Keep it concise and avoid including irrelevant details about unrelated jobs or personal life. Stick to highlighting key achievements and qualifications directly related to nursing.

Remember, formatting is also important:

• Utilize clear headings (like “Education,” “Experience,” etc.) when organizing content within paragraphs
• Use bullet points where applicable
• Keep paragraphs short (around 3 – 5 sentences) By following these dos and don’ts, you can create an effective nursing cover letter that will impress potential employers and increase your chances of securing an interview.

Sample Nursing Cover Letters for Various Scenarios

Check out these short and full examples of nursing cover letters.

Find the one that best fits your scenario and use it as a template from which to customize your letter to a specific job.

1. New Graduate Nurse

Dear Hiring Manager,

I’m reaching out to express my genuine interest in the registered nurse position at your healthcare institution. As a newly minted alumnus of XYZ School of Nursing, I am enthusiastic to initiate my journey in nursing. During my training, I developed strong clinical skills and gained experience in various healthcare settings through internships.

2. Experienced Nurse Seeking Career Change

To Whom It May Concern,

I recently came across the job opening for a case manager at ABC Medical Center, and I would like to apply for this exciting opportunity. Although I have spent several years as an emergency room nurse, I am now ready for a change that allows me to utilize my critical thinking abilities and passion for helping patients on a more holistic level.

3. Registered Nurse with Specialized Certification

I hope this message finds you well. After working as a pediatric nurse for five years, achieving certification in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) has driven me to seek opportunities where I can make an even greater impact on children’s lives.

4. Nurse Returning to Workforce After a Hiatus

Subject: Application for Registered Nurse Position

Dear [Hospital Name] Hiring Committee,

I am writing with great enthusiasm to apply for the Registered Nurse position at [Hospital Name]. Having taken a sabbatical to raise my family, I am now eager to return to the profession I am passionate about. My experience prior to my break includes five years in a high-paced surgical unit, where I honed my clinical skills and developed a strong ability to work under pressure.

During my time away from the workforce, I kept my nursing knowledge up-to-date through various continuing education courses and volunteer work at local clinics. This experience not only refreshed my skills but also reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate and efficient patient care.

I am particularly drawn to [Hospital Name] due to its reputation for excellence in patient care and its commitment to staff development. I am confident that my background, coupled with my renewed energy and updated skills, make me a strong candidate to join your team. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the continued success of your nursing staff.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

5. Nurse Applying for a Research Position

Subject: Application for Clinical Research Nurse Position

Dear Dr. [Last Name],

I am thrilled to submit my candidacy for the Clinical Research Nurse role at [Institute or Hospital Name], as advertised on your website. With a background in oncology nursing and a keen interest in clinical research, I believe I am well-suited to contribute to your innovative research team.

My experience working in an oncology ward has equipped me with in-depth knowledge of cancer treatments and patient care. Furthermore, my involvement in several hospital-based research projects allowed me to develop skills in data collection, patient education, and adherence to research protocols.

What draws me to this role at [Institute or Hospital Name] is your cutting-edge research in cancer therapies. I am particularly interested in contributing to studies that have the potential to improve patient outcomes. I am passionate about the chance to merge my clinical abilities with my interest in research, and I am keen to further develop these skills within a dedicated research environment.

I appreciate your review of my application. I am ecited about the prospect of contributing my clinical know-how to your research team and to meaningful advances in cancer treatment.

Best regards, [Your Name]

6. Nurse Leader Applying for a Management Position

Subject: Application for Nurse Manager Position

Dear [Hospital or Clinic Name] Hiring Committee,

I am drafting this to convey my enthusiasm for the Nurse Manager role at [Hospital or Clinic Name], as listed on your career page. With over a decade of nursing experience, including five years in a leadership role, I am enthusiastic about the possibility of contributing my skills and background to your esteemed institution.

In my present capacity as a Senior Staff Nurse at [Current Hospital Name], I have successfully led a team of 20 nurses, fostering an environment of collaboration, professional development, and high-quality patient care. My responsibilities include staff scheduling, performance evaluation, conflict resolution, and implementing process improvements, all of which have contributed to enhanced team efficiency and patient satisfaction.

Your commitment to [mention any specific initiatives or values of the hospital/clinic] aligns perfectly with my professional ethos. I am particularly impressed with your focus on [mention any notable aspect like community health, innovative care models, etc.]. I am enthusiastic about contributing my leadership abilities and fervor for outstanding nursing to [Hospital or Clinic Name], contributing to both staff development and patient care excellence.

Thank you for reviewing my application. I eagerly await the opportunity to discuss how my background in leadership and nursing can support your nursing team and department goals.

Warm regards, [Your Name]

Final Thoughts: How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter

In essence, your cover letter is an opportunity to personalize your application and bring your resume to life.

It’s an opportunity to showcase your passion for nursing, your dedication to patient care, and your unique qualifications that make you the ideal candidate for the job.

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5 Nursing Cover Letter Samples & Writing Guide for 2024

• Nursing Cover Letter
• Nursing New Grad
• Nursing Instructor
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Write an Outstanding Nursing Cover Letter

Nurses tackle difficult situations for their patients, providing care under stressful circumstances. Nurses are there when patients need help with medicines, a drink, or someone to talk to.

But despite tackling the most precarious situations at work, writing a cover letter to complement a nursing resume can feel more daunting than handling a crowded emergency room. Do you even have the time and energy after a 12-hour shift?

Luckily, we can help with our nursing cover letter examples and tips that will impress any medical director. Then, polish your application off with our free resume builder and AI cover letter generator to create stunning documents in no time.

Nursing Cover Letter Example 

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Why this cover letter works

• Especially in your opening and closing, include details like why you applied for the position, what you appreciate about the company, and what you hope to achieve in the future. 
• Your cover letter isn’t the place to be modest; beyond just metrics, name things you’re good at and what you want to accomplish in your future company.
• Some good skills you can include are collaboration, leadership, and technical abilities. Just make sure your examples relate to the job description in some way. 
• So long as you focus on your skills and how you can use them, you’ll exude confidence, not arrogance.

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifiting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Nursing New Grad Cover Letter Example

• Luca perfectly executes this in his nursing new grad cover letter by sharing his stint during Hurricane Harvey, where he helped with wound care. Personal moments like these, supported with transferable skills, can be your lever into your professional world.

Nursing Instructor Cover Letter Example

• The hiring institution wants to see how you nurtured nursing students and generated an impact. So, go ahead and paint the town red with anecdotes of meaningful student engagements and measurable outcomes (Cue improving program completion rate by 8%).

Registered Nurse (RN) Cover Letter Example

• Describe a situation that reveals your expertise if relevant to the job description. Perhaps you were part of a rapid response team or alerted the doctor when a patient woke in the middle of surgery. Think back on a challenge where you emerged victorious.
• For example, if you want to be a critical care nurse, mention how your time as a forensic nurse helped you develop decision-making skills when helping patients with psychiatric disorders.
• Pick work experience according to what the employer needs. Are they looking for an ER nurse, someone with pediatric experience, or an oncology RN? Include experience within those fields.
• If you don’t have expertise in a particular area, talk about previous positions with transferable skills. 

ICU Nurse Cover Letter Example

• Once you know what you do differently, you can measure your results against others and find the numbers you need for your ICU nurse cover letter.
• Double-check for special requirements, like a copy of your BLS and ACLS cards.

Does your nurse resume need a little TLC?

Hopefully, our cover letters have given you the confidence you need to personalize your own. Don’t neglect your nurse resume, though, because we’ve got tons of resume samples you can edit—just like this one here.

Nursing Resume

Need a resume to pair with your nursing cover letter?

or download as PDF

3 Tips for Writing an Outstanding Nursing Cover Letter

As a nurse, you know the value of research, critical thinking, and compassionate care for each patient, but did you know you can use those same skills to write your cover letter? 

All you need is to research the company, share relevant successes, and monitor your tone to create a cover letter that will catch any manager’s eye.

Tip 1: Get to know the organization

You wouldn’t walk into a patient’s room without knowing their medical history, so you shouldn’t write a cover letter without some research first. But don’t worry—this research is far easier than studying for the NCLEX exam. 

Start by looking at the job description and the company’s website. Once you know what the employer needs, find a way to incorporate their requirements into your cover letter. 

Does the company need a certified nephrology nurse? Be sure to mention your time in a dialysis clinic. Do they want someone experienced in labor and delivery? Write a paragraph about your previous position as a midwife. 

Don’t forget: similar to how you customize your care for each patient, you should customize your cover letter for each new position. Employers will have different requirements even if you’re applying for niche roles.

Tip 2: Go a few steps further than your resume

Repetition is usually good, but not regarding your cover letter and resume. Both are essential documents, but they should support, not mimic, each other. 

Your cover letter is the best way to show your personality, which is especially important in nursing. Your employer needs to determine more than just your qualifications; they’ll want to know you’ll work seamlessly with their team. 

To achieve this, include any  experience and skills  you have solving complex medical problems or times when your personality traits significantly improved your patients and the organization.

If you’re wondering where to start, look at this example from one of our cover letters: 

As an LPN at Cedar Ridge Clinic, I frequently saw entire families. Beyond greeting patients and assessing their condition, I engaged with each one personally, remembering details from their previous visits and asking about family members. Moreover, I researched ways to reduce their medical bills, such as requesting assistance from the clinic’s charity funds. By developing a relationship with my patients and helping them find affordable care, they were 48% more responsive to the doctor’s suggestions, and we reduced their clinic stay by 28%. 

Although this example includes metrics and responsibilities, it also underscores the nurse’s compassion and interpersonal communication skills, which are major green lights for employers. 

Tip 3: Tone is everything

Nursing relies heavily on decorum and empathy, so your cover letter should sound professional and compassionate, but where do you start? Let’s walk through it step-by-step.

For example, a local hospital needs a pediatric nurse who’ll care for special needs children. Working with challenged children requires patience, high emotional intelligence, and strong critical thinking skills, so you’ll want to reflect those abilities. 

To do so, start by picking what experience to include and what to omit to keep your cover letter to one page. Any longer, it will likely be thrown into the recycle bin since recruiters and managers have limited time.

Once you’ve condensed, work on adopting a kind tone. Use words with positive connotations, limit jargon, and adjust your syntax to be direct (but not blunt). Think of it this way: you’re trying to demonstrate your ability to communicate with anyone, so your writing needs to be understandable, easy to read, and compassionate. 

Use words with positive connotations, limit jargon, and adjust your syntax to be direct (but not blunt) .

But don’t stress if you haven’t found the right words yet; revision is the next step. Ask someone to read it through, find any grammatical or punctuation errors, and determine if they would hire you based on what you’ve written.

Use Our Informative Outline to Start Your Nursing Cover Letter

Any great strategy needs a solid structure to make it succeed; use our outline to plan your cover letter for your next nursing role. 

How to start a nursing cover letter

Your contact info:  If your employer doesn’t know how to contact you, they can’t hire you. Don’t leave them in the dark—include your address (city and state) and phone number.

• Formatting : Leave your name out of your address if using a block format. 

Date:  Every letter needs a date, even a cover letter. Include the date near the top, and make sure it reflects the day you submit, not the day you started writing. 

• Formatting : Write the full date, e.g., January 5, 2023.

Inside address:  An inside address is the employer’s address, including the hiring manager’s name and title, plus the medical organization’s physical location. 

It may sound silly to include the employer’s location since they’re reading the letter, but it adds credibility. Addressing the manager by name and listing their location demonstrates your research, especially if there are multiple locations within the organization.

Casey Matheson, StarRN Recruiter West Valley Medical Center 1717 Arlington Ave. Caldwell, ID 83605

• Formatting : Each part of the address should be on a new line. Double space between the inside address and greeting to make it aesthetically pleasing. 

Greeting:  A proper salutation is always a good idea in a cover letter. Since most healthcare organizations are pretty formal, use the standard “Dear Ms./Mr.” followed by the manager’s name. 

We know this isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Finding the person in charge of hiring at your clinic, hospital, physician’s office, or other healthcare location can be as difficult as getting an IV in a deep vein.

However, don’t skip over this step because it’s hard. This small inclusion demonstrates your research; everyone likes personal acknowledgment, so it’s a win-win. We recommend scouring LinkedIn or the company’s website and medical job boards to find details about the company and its employees. 

• Formatting : Use a colon after the greeting instead of a comma per business standards.

Dear Ms. Matheson:

How to write your nursing cover letter

Body:  The body of your nursing cover letter should be three to four paragraphs that convey your eagerness for the job, qualifications, and interest in further discussion. 

Opening paragraph:  Nursing can be thrilling, but you’d be surprised at how many cover letters make it sound like the most boring job in the world, starting with the opener.

Many opening paragraphs sound downright sterile and robotic, like this one: 

Good day—my name is Laura Howell, and I am inquiring about the Travel Med Surg RN position. I have four years of experience in the healthcare industry and the necessary knowledge and skills to help your organization take better care of its patients. 

Besides including their name, this opener is entirely depersonalized and generic. Having several years of experience means nothing if you don’t qualify or quantify it, and nothing about this opening suggests real passion for the company (or even nursing in general). 

Instead, mention the organization by name and explain why you’re interested in the position:  

As a nurse, I always want to provide safe, quality care to every patient, which Natchaug Hospital embodies. Your success stories about helping others with addictions and mental illnesses convinced me that your hospital truly upholds the values of equity, safety, and integrity. I am confident that as an RN at Natchaug Hospital, I can lead my fellow nurses, develop modernized treatment plans, and collaborate with healthcare staff to make our patient’s experience more effective and comfortable.

In just one paragraph, you can quickly tell the candidate’s passion for nursing, their goals as a nurse, and why they want to work at Natchaug Hospital.

Paragraphs 2-3:  Your cover letter should reflect more than basic skills; nursing is more than just “preparing documentation” and “assessing patients.” 

These paragraphs need to provide evidence for your assertions in the opening paragraph. Make each one a spotlight on one of your achievements.

Did you diagnose a patient when even the doctor was stumped? Did you save someone’s life through your attention to detail? Find your best moments, and don’t be shy about relaying your successes.

If you’re wondering where to start, use one of our examples as a guideline: 

My last position was in the ICU for St. Maisha Hospital. While there, I treated many non-English speaking patients who lived below the poverty line. Though challenging, I learned to assess patients and communicate with them and their families regardless of language barriers and lack of funds. I petitioned for yearly fundraisers to provide resources for families to get the care they deserved and established volunteer-based language classes for nurses and doctors. These initiatives mean patients were treated 27% faster and spent 46% less time in the hospital.

Although this paragraph has metrics, it focuses on the nurse’s ability to communicate and relate to people. It’s personal without being sentimental and professional without being cold. 

Closing paragraph:  You are excellent at ensuring patients have what they need before leaving your care, so do the same in your cover letter. Summarize how your values and qualifications align with the organization’s needs and express your desire to discuss further. 

Whatever you do, don’t leave them hanging like this:

As you can see, I have the experience and the skills to be a nurse at your location. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

If ever there was a more generic closing paragraph than this, we haven’t found it. This closer offers nothing unique about the applicant or the business and hardly sounds enthusiastic. 

Instead, give the hiring manager something to remember with details specific to you and the job: 

Providing adequate care for my patients is only the tip of the iceberg; I connect with patients personally and consistently seek to improve. As a nurse with HCA, I will provide individualized care to patients and collaborate with families, doctors, and healthcare staff to create better patient care plans. Thank you for raising the standard of healthcare in the US, and I eagerly await your response.

This closer effectively concludes the conversation while demonstrating their interest in the position and why they’re the best choice for the employer.

• Formatting:  Single-space your nursing cover letter but double-space between paragraphs. 

Signature:  End your cover letter on a high note and with a “thank you” if you haven’t already said so. 

Chase Turner

• Formatting : If you’re presenting any hard copies of your nursing cover letter, quadruple space to sign your name in blue/black ink. 

Enclosure(s):  Adding an enclosures section is greatly appreciated in the healthcare industry. This section lists other documents you’ve included in your application, reminding the reader there’s more to come. 

Nursing cover letter enclosures can include the job application, a resume , a transcript, writing samples, and licensure documents, to name a few. 

Enclosures: Resume Georgia RN License Copy of BLS & ACLS cards

• Formatting : Use the singular or plural form of “enclosure,” depending on how many things you attach.

Check the Health of Your Nursing Resume

Congrats, you’ve finished your nursing cover letter! You’re one step closer to the nursing job you’ve always wanted. 

But wait—don’t forget you still need to  make a resume . Whether you need to build an  outline of a resume  or are in the finishing stages of filling out a  resume template , we have the tools you need to write a great nursing resume. 

If you’re finding it hard to start, you can edit this nurse resume directly.

ICU Nurse Resume

No matter where you’re at in the job hunt, remember: you’re a great nurse, and your patients know it. Now go out there and prove that with a stellar resume and cover letter!

Ideally, you should connect with your role as a nurse and the type of medical organization you’re applying to. For instance, if the position involves providing care to elderly patients, then connecting with why you want to help elderly patients maintain a good quality of life and minimize pain could be great points to focus on.

You can lean on how your associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing has equipped you to be successful in the role, such as how you achieved excellent grades in your pathophysiology classes. Also, connect your passion to the role and desire to help others as much as possible to stand out.

Nurses need a large skill set, but detailing every ability you possess in your cover letter wouldn’t be the best idea since it would likely lose a hiring manager’s attention. Instead, focus on the primary needs of the job. Will you be in an emergency response sector? Then focusing on skills like wound dressing or controlling bleeding may be essential to emphasize within your cover letter.

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Writing a Successful Nursing Cover Letter With Examples and Templates

Jul 01 2022

Career Resources / Job Searching / Nursing Cover Letter

Reviewed by: Kiley Griffin, R.N.

Writing an effective nursing cover letter may seem unnecessary–trust us: it’s not. Roughly 45% of job seekers send resumes without a cover letter . Yet, a majority of employers prefer cover letters to go with a resume. 

When looking for a new job , nurses often spend the most time developing their resumes . Sometimes they neglect their cover letters or don’t write one at all.  

Whether you are a new grad nurse or a nurse veteran, a good cover letter is a great way to separate yourself from the pack. Even if a hiring manager only skims it, it can mean the difference between you and another candidate getting the job if something catches their eye.

In this post, we will explore the following:

• Examples and a Template for a Nursing Cover Letter

When Nursing Cover Letters Are Required

• Benefits to Writing a Cover Letter
• Steps for Writing a Cover Letter
• Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Cover Letter

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Nursing Cover Letter Examples and Templates

With the right care and effort, you can craft a professional nursing cover letter that helps distinguish you from other candidates.  

We’ve provided two sample nurse cover letters and a template to help give you an idea of what to write.

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Hiring Manager name Nursing Recruitment 1234 Any Place Road Sometown, California 11111 (999)999-9999 June 16, 2021 Your Name Title Current Employer Mailing Address Phone Number Email Address Dear Hiring Manager, I am pleased to learn of this opportunity, as I found the qualities you are seeking for this position to be an excellent match for my skills, education, and experience. I have a robust background and leadership experience in emergency nursing, trauma/critical care, change leadership, and a commitment to providing high-quality care through standardizing workflows to align with best practices. It is in response to similar challenges that I have excelled during my career as a manager, director, and clinical leader.  Also, I am particularly interested in [the company] because of your excellent reputation, community engagement, and focus on delivering high-quality care to patients. My current role primarily includes providing strategic direction to the clinical operations of the Emergency Department, Trauma Base Hospital, and Crisis Stabilization Unit. I also establish and enforce policies and procedures for the hospital. Additionally, I ensure that financial targets are met within my scope of responsibility. Moreover, I am confident that I can support your strategic objectives of the ICU and provide stability in the department with regard to achieving quality outcomes, staff development, and meeting financial targets. I look forward to discussing in detail with you the ways in which my experience and determination will make further significant contributions to your organization. Respectfully, [Your Name]

Here are the most common scenarios when a nursing cover letter is required:

• Applying directly to a specific person: Suppose the job posting invites applicants to apply to a particular individual instead of a general application system. In that case, it is appropriate to include a cover letter and address it to the individual . This is especially important for new grad nurses with less experience.
• Referral for a position: Don’t skip the cover letter If you apply for work based on another professional or mentor’s recommendation. Use the cover letter to explain that someone referred you to the job and specify whom. This allows hiring managers to see that someone they value as a trusted professional in the healthcare industry believes you are qualified for a position.
• When requested in a job listing:  Some job listings specifically request candidates to submit a professional cover letter with their application. Following job listing requirements to include a cover letter shows hiring managers that you follow instructions and have an eye for detail. Both are essential qualities in the nursing profession.

Benefits to Writing a Nursing Cover Letter

Knowing you are the best candidate for the job and proving it are two different things. You may have an impeccable nursing resume ; however, 20 other candidates are applying for the same position.

Nursing careers are in demand , but that does not mean there isn’t competition for specific nursing positions such as a nurse practitioner or nurse educator .

Resumes are neatly spun packages of information about a candidate’s education, job history (when applicable), and professional certification . They leave little room for information about who you are as a candidate. 

That is where a good cover letter comes in. With the proper cover letter format, your cover letter will offer several advantages and is a great way to showcase your nursing skills.

Identify your intent

Resumes indicate your worth. Cover letters reveal your intent . Outline how your desires and skills align with the job you are applying for. This shows the hiring manager you are interested in the position.

Hopefully, it’s not going to be just another job for you. It will become part of your mission and vision as a nursing professional . For instance, if a position will help grow your leadership skills and prepare you for an advanced nursing career, state that as part of the intent. 

Provide a more in-depth description

Your education and credentials make up only a small portion of who you are as a nursing professional. How someone looks on paper is not an indicator of how they will perform. It does not accurately gauge their character.

In that sense, a cover letter provides a sample of what the hiring manager will expect in the interview.

Using a cover letter to honestly explore your strengths, weaknesses, experiences, interests, and perspectives is an asset. Maybe your resume includes a certification or award you are proud of. Expand on it in the cover letter. 

Pro-tip: Using some of the traits and terms found in the job’s job description is a great way to stand out as a candidate, as it shows you have the qualities the employer is looking for.

What makes you proud of that achievement and how does it make you the best candidate for the position?

Explain the gaps

Hiring professionals suggest resumes span one page for new nurses and those with less than 10 years of experience. Due to length limits, it is hard to explain any gaps in work history. Also, resumes leave out room for detailing why you may have shifted gears from an earlier career into nursing. 

A cover letter provides the perfect opportunity to explain these situations.

Establish a willingness to work

Cover letters add an extra touch to a job application. As stated, nearly half of all job applicants fail to include a cover letter with their job applications unless requested.

Going that extra mile shows a hiring manager that you are willing to put the work in to get the job done right. That is a desirable quality for any business or industry, especially in nursing and other healthcare careers.

Remember that a cover letter should focus on a resume’s highlights, fleshing them out in a more meaningful way.

These are key purposes of a nursing cover letter.

Include only information that falls into one of the four benefits listed above to get the most mileage out of your cover letter.

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Steps for Writing Your Cover Letter

The nursing field requires structure and proper etiquette .

You wouldn’t walk into a patient’s room and say,

“hey, Adam, what’s up, man?” 

The same need for etiquette and structure applies to writing a cover letter. 

Accordingly, we have provided steps to writing a successful nursing cover letter. 

1. Create a header

When a nurse injects a patient with a vaccine, they clean the area first with an alcohol wipe. They don’t just stick the needle in. In the same vein, you need to start by listing your name, phone number, email, and residential address . 

Make sure you put the date under that information. 

Last, include the recipient’s contact information as well. 

2. Use a professional greeting

This is your first impression – show respect. Using “Dear” will work when sending a formal cover letter. If you don’t know the hiring manager’s name, simply write “Dear hiring manager.” 

3. Write your opening paragraph

Your first paragraph serves as the bait or pitch to get the hiring manager’s attention. Don’t bother placing a fishing lure of fluff to try and get their attention. It’s essential to lead with honesty and earnestness. 

While writing this paragraph, make sure you include the title for the position you’re applying to. If you’re applying to work as an RN , state that. Next, articulate why you applied for this job to begin with and your overall excitement to obtain this role.

Make sure that you key in on specific details about the position and how they interest you.

Here’s an example of a stellar opening paragraph:

I am thrilled at the opportunity to apply at St. Joseph’s Hospital as an ICU nurse. As an ICU nurse with over six years of experience, I have gained the necessary skills to perform my role excellently. Specifically, I am excited about the opportunity to work on a 35-bed unit with the demands it requires. I think that my experience, passion, and skill set make me an ideal ICU nurse at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

4. Write your background paragraph

Dedicate this paragraph to your career in nursing up to this point. You want to include all the most applicable skills that pertain to this position. Be specific. Include the detailed duties that you performed that correspond to this new role. 

If you’re applying to work in oncology, but have training in wound therapy, maybe don’t lead with that. Try including only relevant examples. 

Next, include any measurable achievements you’ve had in other jobs that relate to this role. Keyword: measurable . 

Here’s an example of a job posting for an ICU nurse:

Now, here’s a great way to respond to such a job posting:

My experience as a CVICU nurse has allowed me to develop the necessary skills to provide exceptional nursing care through a continuously evolving education. One of my greatest achievements is training 10 CVICU nurses to handle the CVICU and work with external pacemakers and post-cardiac surgery care. By working alongside a variety of health care providers at all levels, I have been able to establish outstanding collaboration and delegation abilities. Through my education, a strong emphasis on patient advocacy and ethical decision-making has been incorporated. Therefore, I have learned to place patient care at the utmost importance. I have developed strong assessment and critical thinking skills. This allows me to deliver the highest quality patient-centered care.

5. Expand on qualifications

Try adding a few short stories that can highlight your primary achievements. This is a great opportunity to highlight your soft skills as well. 

Some potential soft skills include:

• Communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Ability to work under pressure

6. Craft a conclusion

In your concluding paragraph, circle back to why you’re the best candidate for this role. Try to expand on your eagerness to obtain the position. End the paragraph with a call to action . A call to action expresses your desire to hear from them soon with next steps regarding the hiring process.

7. End your letter formally

Just like you began your letter, conclude your letter professionally with a “Sincerely” or “Respectfully,” followed by your name. Ending your letter this way helps it end on a high, formal note. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your Cover Letter

In the nursing profession, a mistake can lead to a lawsuit. When writing a nurse cover letter a mistake could lead to you not getting a job. Below are some of the common mistakes to avoid when writing your cover letter.

• Typos: The nursing profession has a lot of difficult and wonky spellings. For example, you may be proficient at Arrhythmia management , but do you know how to spell it? Having typos within your cover letter sends the message to your hiring manager that you might not be detail-oriented and that’s one of the most important traits in a nurse.
• Focusing too much on yourself: According to Forbes, this is another common mistake to avoid . Often people try to list all their accomplishments in ways that don’t directly tie into how they can help the company . You want your cover letter to be strategic and it’s imperative to list ways that you can help the employer.
• Lying: This should be obvious but it’s crucial that you tell the truth in your cover letter. The truth will eventually come out. The best policy is to just practice honesty.
• Addressing the letter to the wrong person: This is a critical mistake. The recruiter or hiring manager probably will just stop reading at that point.
• Re-writing your resume: Unfortunately, this is a common error when writing a cover letter. As explained earlier: resumes explain your worth, cover letters show your intent. They are two separate documents and a hiring manager will know if you attempt to merge them.
• Using a different font than your resume: It may seem like a small detail, but using the same font on your resume shows that you pay attention to detail.

You’ve made it. Congratulations!

Writing a cover letter on its own separates you from the pack. However, writing a strong cover letter makes you an even more intriguing candidate. A nurse wouldn’t leave a stitch when sewing up a wound and neither should you leave a job unfinished when applying for a job.

Nursing Cover Letter FAQs

Your nursing cover letter shouldn’t be longer than a page. The recruiter should be able to read it quickly and get a good idea of what you offer the company. Anything longer than that and you risk the recruiter tossing your letter.

It’s best to use either Times New Roman or Arial when writing a nursing cover letter.

The cover letter should expand on information found in the resume. It should provide insight into your skills, qualifications and background.

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Nursing Cover Letter Examples For 2024 (20+ Skills & Templates)

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Looking to land more nursing job offers?

Crafting a strong cover letter is key. This comprehensive guide is packed with everything you need to know in order to write a job-winning nursing cover letter , complete with effective strategies, essential skills, helpful templates, and real-life examples.

You can trust that all the insights and tips in this guide are based on data from coaching thousands of job seekers, just like you, who have gone on to secure positions at some of the world's most reputable companies.

Whether you're a seasoned nurse or just starting out, reading this guide from start to finish can help you land your dream role. But if you're short on time and looking for specific information, here's a breakdown of what's included:

• What To Know About Writing A Job-Winning Nursing Cover Letter
• The Best Skills To Include On A Nursing Cover Letter

How To Address A Nursing Cover Letter

• 3 Nursing Cover Letter Examples

The 8 Best Nursing Cover Letter Templates

3 tips for writing a job-winning nursing cover letter.

Here's the step-by-step breakdown:

Nursing Cover Letter Overview: What To Know To Write A Cover Letter That Wins More Job Offers

What do healthcare centers look for when hiring for a nursing role?

Hospitals and clinics look for nursing candidates with a nursing degree or diploma from an accredited program and a valid nursing license. Certification in a specialty area, such as pediatrics or critical care, may also be preferred.

Nurses should have both technical skills, such as administering medication and using medical equipment, and strong interpersonal skills, such as communication, empathy, and collaboration. They should be adaptable, flexible, able to make quick decisions, and solve problems in complex situations.

Professionalism and ethical standards are also important qualities in nursing roles. Nurses work as part of a larger healthcare team, so employers often look for candidates who are team players and can work effectively with others.

Your resume should show your potential employer that both your personality and your experience encompass all of these things.

Additionally, there are a few best practices you want to follow to write a job-winning nursing resume:

• Highlight your experience.  Highlight your nursing experience that is most relevant to the job you are applying for. Focus on clinical skills, procedures, and technologies you are experienced with.
• Emphasize your communication and interpersonal skills.  Provide examples of how you have effectively communicated with patients, family members, and colleagues.
• Include keywords from the job description:  ensure your resume is optimized for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• Highlight your problem-solving and decision-making skills.  Provide examples of how you have addressed complex issues and made effective decisions.
• Include any relevant certifications, awards or professional development courses.  List any nursing certifications, licenses, and professional memberships you hold.
• Quantify your work:  Use numbers and statistics to quantify your achievements, such as the number of patients you cared for or the success rate of your treatments.
• Proofread: Make sure to thoroughly proofread your cover letter for any grammatical errors or typos. A well-written, error-free letter can make a strong first impression. I recommend using Hemingway App to do this.

Let's dive deeper into each of these so you have the exact blueprint you need to see success.

The Best Nursing Skills To Include On Your Cover Letter

Keywords are one of the most important factors in your cover letter. They show employers that your skills align with the role and they also help format your cover letter for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

If you're not familiar with ATS systems, they are pieces of software used by employers to manage job applications. They scan cover letters for keywords and qualifications and make it easier for the employers to filter and search for candidates whose qualifications match the role.

If you want to win more nursing interviews and job offers, you need to have a keyword-optimized cover letter. There are two ways to find the right keywords:

1. Leverage The 20 Best Nursing Keywords

The first way to find the right keywords is to leverage our list of the best keywords and skills for a nursing cover letter.

These keywords were selected from an analysis of  real nursing  job descriptions sourced from actual job boards. Here they are:

• Patient Care
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Team Member
• Coordination
• Instruction
• Flexibility
• Certification
• Accountability

2. Use ResyMatch.io To Find The Best Keywords That Are Specific To Your Cover Letter And Target Role

The second method is the one I recommend because it's personalized to your specific cover letter and target job.

This process lets you find the exact keywords that your cover letter is missing when compared to the individual role you're applying for.

Here's how it works:

• Open a copy of your target nursing job description
• Head over to  ResyMatch.io
• Select the “Job Description Scan” from the scan type selector in the upper right corner of the tool
• Copy and paste the nursing job description into the field on the left
• Hit scan and review the results

ResyMatch is going to scan the target job description and show you the exact keywords and skills that are relevant for the role and that you should weave into your cover letter.

Here's a video walking through this whole process:

Personalization is what makes a cover letter stand out. That starts from the very first sentence where you greet the person reading your cover letter! There are two ways to do this well:

1. Use The Hiring Manager's Name

The first, and best, is by including the hiring manager's name. Let's say that you discovered the hiring manager's name from a post on LinkedIn or via an informational interview.

This is the jackpot! All you need to do is use their name in the introduction, like this:

2. Use This Formula: To The [Department] Team at [Organization]

If you don't have the hiring manager's name, no problem! You can address your cover letter to the team that you're applying to.

For example, if you're applying to for a Product Marketing Manager role at Discovery Education, you might start you cover letter like this:

This shows the reader that this letter has been written specifically for them and the content inside of it will support that.

It's much more relevant and personal than  “To Whom It May Concern!”

For more advice on writing a strong opening to your cover letter, check out this guide.

3 Nursing Cover Letter Examples For 2023

Now let's take a look at all of these best practices in action. Here are three cover letter examples for different situations from people with different backgrounds that are all applying for nursing roles:

Nursing Cover Letter Example #1: A Traditional Background

Our first example is a cover letter written by a candidate with traditional nursing experience. Here is what an example of their cover letter might look like:

Nursing Cover Letter Example #2: A Non-Traditional Background

Our second cover letter example comes from a candidate looking to transition from a social work background into a nursing role. This cover letter illustrates how they identify and speak to their transferable skills:

Nursing Cover Letter Example #3: Landing A Nurse Practitioner Role

Our third example highlights a candidate with extensive nursing experience who is looking to take a leap in their career and land a Nurse Practitioner role.

At this point, you know all of the basics you'll need to write a nursing cover letter that wins you more interviews and offers. The only thing left is to take all of that information and apply it to a template that's going to help you get results.

We made that easy with  our CoverBuild tool . It has 8 proven templates that were created with the help of recruiters and hiring managers at the world's best companies. These templates also bake in thousands of data points we have from the job seekers in our audience who have used them to land job offers.

You're off to a strong start! But I've got a few more tips to help you take your cover letter to the next level:

1. Use ChatGPT To Write Your Cover Letter In <30 Seconds

All of these tips and best practices work, but you still have to implement them. Normally, that'd mean you sitting down and spending hours brainstorming ideas, typing, deleting, and typing again, and then feeling absolutely drained.

Now there's a way to work around all of that so you save your best energy for the writing and edits that matter most. Here's how it works:

• Head to ChatGPT (you'll need to create an account – it's free)
• Ask ChatGPT,  “Please write me a cover letter for a nursing role. The role I'm applying for is [Job Title] role at [Employer]. Here is the job description: [Paste Job Description]. And here is my resume: [Paste Resume].
• Watch ChatGPT write up a pretty darn good cover letter base!

Here's a video of me doing this with a real cover letter if you want to see the steps in action:

Note:  I  do not recommend or advise that you simply copy and paste the content from ChatGPT into your cover letter and submit your application. ChatGPT is great for doing 80% of the baseline work, but you still need to review, revise, and personalize the content yourself.

2. Include Measurable Metrics And Outcomes

Too many job seekers only focus on the actions that they took and not the outcomes that resulted from those actions. As a hiring manager, it's impossible to differentiate between a dozen candidates who were all “Responsible For Monitoring Patient Progress.”

If you want to win, your cover letter should speak to the specific outcomes that you drove in previous roles. That could be:

• The percentage by which your patients' health improved under your care
• The average reduction in hospital readmissions
• The average parent satisfaction rate
• The rate by which you and your team were able to reduce medical errors

These numbers will show hiring teams what you're capable of and make your value crystal clear!

3. Match Your Cover Letter And Resume Design

They're the exact same car, down to the year, make, and model. The only difference is the way the product was presented. Like I said, quality impacts perceived value.

One of the best ways to boost the quality of your cover letter is to make it look clean, professional, and have it match your resume. That's why the resume templates in our resume builder tool match the cover letter templates in our cover letter builder:

If you use both tools to create your cover letter and your resume, your entire application is going to be top notch.

Key Takeaways To Wrap Up Your Job-Winning Cover Letter

You made it! We packed a lot of information into this post so I wanted to distill the key points for you and lay out next steps so you know exactly where to from here.

Here are the 5 steps for writing a job-winning nursing cover letter:

• Start with a proven cover letter template from CoverBuild.io
• Use  ResyMatch.io to find the right keywords and optimize your cover letter for each nursing role you apply to
• Start your nursing cover letter with a personalized greeting for the hiring manager or Human Resources representative.
• Emphasize the measurable outcomes and value you drove in previous roles (include metrics!)
• Compare the draft of your nursing cover letter to the examples on this page to make sure you're on the right path
• Use a tool like  Hemingway App to proofread your cover letter before you submit it

If you follow those steps, you're going to be well on your way to landing more nursing interviews and job offers.

Now that your cover letter is taking care of, be sure to check out our guide on writing a job-winning Nursing resume (with examples!)

Laura Lorta

Laura is an Editor at Cultivated Culture. She transitioned from teaching into the world of content so she's no stranger to career pivots. She also has a bachelors in Entrepreneurship and a Masters in Curriculum & Instruction / Bilingual Education. She currently shares job search advice to help people like you land jobs they love without applying online.

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How to Write an Effective Cover Letter and Resume for a Nursing Application

Writing an effective cover letter and resume for a nursing application can be a daunting task. We have tips on how to best highlight your qualifications, experiences, and any certifications you hold that will set you apart from the competition. With these tips in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to build an impressive cover letter and resume that will land you the job.

When Is It Appropriate to Include a Nursing Cover Letter?

Healthcare positions don’t always require  cover letters,  but there are times when they’re appropriate. You may include a cover letter to give your resume package a complete and professional look. A well-written cover letter can show the hiring manager that you are the ideal candidate for the position and are willing to go the extra mile.

Consider using a cover letter if any of the following situations apply:

• The application requests a cover letter
• You need to explain a gap in your career (usually six months or more)
• You are changing careers or specialty areas

How to Write Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter should be in the same format as a professional letter, beginning with a header, your personal information, and the date you’re writing it. The body of the letter should consist of two to three paragraphs and end with a closing statement. It should also be no longer than one page. With this basic structure, format your cover letter using the following tips:

Header and Personal Information

You can use the header section of your document to write your full name and include your credentials. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) suggests that you write  nursing credentials  with your highest earned degree first, then your license, any certifications you hold, and finally, any honors or awards. Provide a phone number, email, and address so they can easily contact you. Finally, include the date in the header. 

It is appropriate to address the recipient directly if you know their name. You would start with “Dear [recipient’s name]”. Do some online searching to see if you can figure out who the hiring manager would be, or somebody in Human Resources. It’s best to aim for personalization instead of a generic “Dear hiring manager”. Even if you don’t have the correct name, it will show you did your research and are taking the position seriously. 

The Body of the Cover Letter

In your opening paragraph, introduce yourself and include why you are excited to apply for the role. Be sure to include the company name and the job you are applying for. Also, include any keywords you noticed in the job description. Similar to resumes, your cover letter may first be screened by software, and including related keywords can help you stand out. Highlight your own experiences and how they align with the position details. You may also point out any best practices you have implemented in previous jobs and their outcomes.

In the next paragraph, demonstrate your exceptional skills by including relevant experience. If you’ve worked in a hospital with a Shared Governance Program, include any committees or councils you served on. If you’ve participated in any process improvement projects, mention them here. This space is also where you can tell a story highlighting why you are perfect for the position and explain any gaps in your work history, but it is crucial to focus on your desire to move forward with your career.

Closing Paragraph

In closing, summarize your interest in the position, include the best way to contact you, and thank the recipient for their time reviewing your credentials. Finish with a strong statement like, “Nursing has been a passion of mine since I was a child, and I am excited to show you how my skills and experience can make a difference in this role. I look forward to hearing from you soon.” This type of statement will leave a positive impression on the reader and show them how serious you are about the position.

How to Format an Effective Resume

You could use a resume writing service like  TopResume  through Health eCareers. Here, you enter your information and pay a fee; they do the rest for you. If you’re looking to write your own resume, you can find plenty of resume and cover letter templates online. These templates can provide structure and clean formatting, but you can make it your own by following simple structuring tips.

If you are applying for your first position out of college, you may want to include your high school and college information. If you have been a nurse for more than a year and are applying for your second job or beyond, you only need to include your college education. However, some online applications will still request your high school information. Be sure to list your graduation date and your GPA if available.

Work Experience

When applying for your first nursing job after college, include work experience before getting your degree. If you have no work experience, consider including community volunteer work, service projects, or fee-for-service jobs like babysitting or yard work. If you are currently working, list your current or most recent job first and subsequent employment in descending order by month and year. Provide the name and location of your employer, a brief job description, and your hire and end date by month and year. 

List all previous work experience for the last ten years. Going beyond ten years of experience is often unnecessary unless previous employment impacts the role you’re applying for. You can provide the information under a sub-header if you need to include more than ten years of experience. Use “Other Nursing/Work Experience” to list these jobs without long descriptions.

Professional Certification, Licensure, and Special Skills

In this section, provide your nursing license information, including your license number and when and where it was issued. You can also give information on multi-state licensing. If you have any professional certifications or accolades, be sure to provide those here. You can also list any particular skills or experience, such as office, computer, and software expertise.

Awards, Publications, Professional Organization Memberships, and Service Fraternities

After you have been working for a while, you may develop an extensive portfolio of work experience and projects. Healthcare professionals can use a  CV  as a portfolio to expand on publications, awards, and other notable achievements. A CV is generally not limited to just one or two pages, allowing you to expand on your experience in great detail.

When listing awards, professional organization memberships, etc., you can add this section to your resume if you choose not to include a CV. Listing any awards or other recognitions might help you get noticed. You can include professional organization memberships and list any offices you have held. If you are a new graduate, this is an excellent place to include any nursing-specific or service fraternities to which you belong. Providing this information shows an employer that you excel at collaboration and would be an asset to their team.

Some Final Tips

• Your cover letter and resume should have the same design and come as a package. Use the same header on your cover letter as on your resume.
• Use the cover letter to highlight important information you didn’t have space for in your resume. For example, if you were applying for a Labor and Delivery Nurse position, you would point out specific experience you have in that specialty area.
• Tell a story with your nursing application package. After you complete your cover letter, resume, and application, be sure there is no conflicting information.
• Always provide at least two professional and one personal reference. Be sure to ask your references for permission and updated contact information before listing them.

Finding a job, whether you are a new graduate or a seasoned nurse, is one of the most challenging parts of any career. You want to ensure you stand out among a crowd of experienced nurses. Following these simple tips for writing a cover letter and resume can help you shine in a sea of applicants and lead you to your dream  nursing job .   

Krista Vaughan, BSN, RN, NPD-BC is a registered nurse with 28 years of nursing experience. Most of her experience is in Labor and Delivery, but she is passionate about helping the next generation of nurses develop themselves as professionals. Krista currently works as a full time clinical educator for a large Southeastern hospital system and part-time freelance writer.

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How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter (Everything You Need to Know)

What is a Cover Letter?

In general, a cover letter is a letter that is sent with something to explain the reason for it or to give more information about it. When it comes to nursing, a registered nurse cover letter gives more information about the applicant and usually accompanies a résumé.

You can find more on nursing résumés, including a custom resume builder, at Trusted for New Grads !

When you write a cover letter, it's your chance to elaborate on topics mentioned in your résumé or talk about something completely different that makes you an awesome candidate for the position you’re applying for.

Watch the full recording of our recent webinar with cover letter and resume expert, Ashley Sayles, MSN, CRNP, CPNP-PC below! ‍

When Should You Submit a Cover Letter

In short? Always! Especially if you’re a new graduate nurse or are a nurse looking to change nursing specialties. Cover letters can also be very useful in explaining gaps in employment or even to better explain being let go from a previous nursing position.

As a new graduate nurse, you enter the nursing job market with thousands of other nurses with pretty much the exact same résumé content. You went to ABC nursing school; you recently graduated and passed the NCLEX; and, you have clinical experience in Psych/Mental Health, L&D/Obstetrics, Pediatrics, Medical/Surgical nursing, and Public/Community Health. 

You may have some fun stuff to add, nursing honor society, or clubs and volunteer involvement that can help set you apart from other applicants. You may even have experience as a CNA or nurse extern, too—these are all great accomplishments to be proud of. 

If you have been out of work for an extended period of time, your cover letter is the perfect place to EXPLAIN your employment gap and reasons why you’re looking to get back into the swing of things.

If you have experiences that you can elaborate relevant information from (mission trips, study abroad, shadowing/share time, union involvement, research projects, etc.), you should detail it in your cover letter. ‍

Cover Letter Format 

A registered nurse’s cover letter should always be in formal letterhead format, including: 

• Your full name, address, email, and phone number
• The employer/institution’s full name and mailing address
• Salutation (“Dear Hiring Manager/Nurse Recruiter” or “To Whom It May Concern”)
• Introduction paragraph, 1-2 body paragraphs, then conclusion paragraph
• Complimentary close (“Sincerely, With Care, Regards, Respectfully”)
• Signature—Your name typed (PDF image of your actual signature is even better)
• Cover letter length should NOT exceed one page!

You can access a variety of templates here ! ‍

Cover Letter Layout

What should the format entail?

• Always use formal letter format (and don't begin with a title like, "Cover Letter for Nursing Job")
• Layout, font, colors should match resume (visual cues)
• Introduce yourself in the first paragraph: credentials, graduation date, nursing school, NCLEX status (passed, will take on XYZ date)
• Next, discuss why you’re right for the position—specific personal experiences, studies, etc.
• In the third paragraph, discuss why the position (particularly the unit) and the facility is right for you
• Finally, summarize your letter and thank the reader for their time and consideration

Make sure you look up the hospital and unit you’re applying to. You should know their mission statement and core values, and you should mention them in your cover letter; this is where you impress them with your research.

Example: “I truly admire XYZ Medical Center’s commitment to diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration as evidenced by the institutions mission statement…”

Yale's School of Nursing also has some great layout and format suggestions . ‍

Cover Letter - Keep in Mind

Additionally, here are a few things to keep in mind as you work through your cover letter:

• If you’re not sure who will be reading the letter, address it to “Hiring Manager” or “Nurse Recruiter”
• Don’t be afraid to talk about yourself!  

Hype up your extracurricular involvement, relevant clinical experience, your personal life that brought you to nursing, or the particular type of nursing for which you are applying, etc. 

• Lastly, talk about how much you want the job—eloquently, of course, NO desperation!

Example: “Working at XYZ hospital has been a dream of mine for some time, and I’m sure I will continue to build on the skills and experience I have already come across in school while working on the unit among the amazing nurse educators and preceptors that make this institution great!” ‍

Example Cover Letter Narrative

Cover Letter Sample, here is my back story:

I was a new grad applying to work in the pediatric ICU AND I just so happened to be a previous PICU patient as a child. Of course, this means I can offer empathy and understand what patients are experiencing while in the PICU but where would this information go in my résumé? Nowhere, it would be odd to put that in my résumé but does that mean it isn’t important?

‍ And here is an excerpt from my actual cover letter:

“As a previous PICU patient myself battling severe asthma, I have a unique understanding of what my patients are experiencing and thus can offer empathy and enhanced patient care experience in a way many of my peers may not be able to.” ‍

Nursing Cover Letter Do’s & Don'ts

• Do reuse your cover letter for multiple positions
• Don’t forget to change the facility name, address, etc. if you do so!
• Do use personal experiences that cannot be fully detailed in the resume
• Don’t ramble or simply summarize your resume ‍

Need Help Building Your Resume?

Sign up for a free Trusted profile for access to our resume builder, more nursing resources, and your own Nurse Advocate! 

Ashley Sayles realized the great need for nursing-focused résumé and career services, and thus ReNegade Résumé was born. In becoming more active on social media, Ashley began to connect with nurses and aspiring nurses from all over the country and many would ask for résumé and career advice through these channels. Ashley decided to create the ReNegade Résumé to offer affordable career preparation and management services that nurses can trust.

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The Résumé Rx

Nursing Cover Letters: 7 Essential Components (+bonus point)

Nursing cover letters .

Everyone knows they need a résumé, and most people can throw one together with a little bit of guidance (and maybe a killer template).

Do you know what I get asked about almost as often with résumés? Nursing cover letters

Most of the time it’s the nursing cover letter that I see leaving people paralyzed.

Especially nurses.

Many nursing professionals wonder:

What is there to say that’s not on my résumé?

New grads struggle with nursing cover letters, especially, asking “what am I going to write about if I have no experience?”

The good news is, I’m here to tell you that not only can your nursing cover letter be the #1 reason why you get called for an interview, but you also can stand out and increase your odds if you include some of my highly recommended elements!

The Résumé Rx’s Nursing Cover Letter Anatomy

1. the first way to make a huge impact with your nursing cover letter is to elevate the formatting and style ..

There are a few ways to do this.

I don’t recommend going overboard with colors or super fancy fonts, but making your name big and adding a sub-heading with your contact info is a nice way to start.

You may have heard me talk before about “branding,” which is essentially using similar formatting for all your job search documents in order to appear consistent, detail-oriented, and memorable.

An easy way to do this is to use a similar template for your nursing cover letter and résumé.

You can do this on your own by changing your fonts in Microsoft Word (or whatever you use) and making your headings appear similar on both your nursing résumé and cover letter.

If you want an easy solution that does this for you, all my digital download résumé templates include matching résumés, cover letters, and reference lists for just $37.

2. The next crucial element of your nursing cover letter is your salutation (that means your greeting!)

Never use “To Whom it May Concern!”

It’s incredibly impersonal.

Finding out the name of who will be reviewing your résumé may be easier than you think.

Take 10 minutes, do some searching around the organization’s website, and try and figure out who the HR manager or recruitment individual is.

Applying to a larger hospital or organization?

Here are some alternative salutations when you don’t have a name:

-Dear Nursing Recruitment -To the hiring committee -To the human resources department -Dear practice manager

3. The next thing I want you to consider putting into your nursing cover letter is some PASSION!

The best way to do this is with a personal story.

It does not have to be long, and in fact, it can be just one sentence.

But inserting something that shows are are  human can do wonders for your “on paper” impression.

Check out this one-liner from Carly’s nursing cover letter.

Ever since I observed the compassionate care my sister received during her battle with leukemia, I have dreamt of becoming a pediatric oncology nurse.

Doesn’t this leave you wanting to know about her and her personal motivation to pursue this position?

You can bet that when she interviews for the position and tells this entire story, the hiring manager is going to remember that hook that she included in her nursing cover letter.

4. Showcase achievements, not responsibilities.

It’s a great idea to keep track of any sort of metrics or feedback you get in school or in your job(s).

You can ask your manager for this type of information or keep track of it yourself.

If you’re a new graduate , you can include your average clinical grade or the percentage of positive preceptor evaluations you received.

If you’re an experienced bedside nurse, you can include your pain reassessment times or discharge numbers.

If you’re a nurse practitioner , consider including your productivity average, no-show rate, or patient satisfaction scores.

5. “Picture me here” 

Somewhere towards the middle or end of your nursing cover letter, you should paint a picture of how you, the applicant, will seamlessly fit into the vacancy .

You want your hiring manager to be able to picture you in the position.

A way to do this is to outline exactly how you feel your experience has prepared you for this particular position.

This type of writing can take a bit of finesse , and usually involves a combination of brainstorming and combing through the job description of the job you’re applying to.

If a position is looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, showcase how you have done that before.

If a position involves working with a difficult patient population, highlight how you connect with your patients and are acknowledged for your customer service.

This may be the toughest part of your nursing cover letter to write, so don’t neglect it and give it the time it deserves.

Check out how Carly knocked it out of the park and showcased how her being a new graduate actually makes her a desirable candidate :

I am a recent graduate of St. Joseph’s Nursing School, where I consistently achieved a >3.8 GPA. In addition to making the Dean’s List every semester, I also mentored my classmates as a peer tutor. I thrived in all my clinical settings, where I received >95% positive preceptor evaluations in all rotations. While I may be a new graduate, I am responsive to feedback and easily trainable. I am comfortable in new settings and know when to ask questions of my mentors.

6. As you get ready to conclude your nursing cover letter, it’s time to seal the deal.

Up until now, you’ve shown your humanity with a personal story or “hook,” highlighted your achievements, and showed how you will seamlessly fit into the role you’re applying for.

You need to let them know again that you are interested in the position, and the way to do this is to invite the reader to learn more about you .

The secret here is rather than saying something generic such as “please contact me with any questions,” or “I look forward to hearing from you about this great opportunity,” you are going to seal the deal by opening the door to a conversation.

Check out how Carly ends her nursing cover letter by saying she looks forward to discussing how she and the future employer can work together to improve care outcomes for pediatric cancer patients.

I am confident that I will bring compassionate, quality care to the pediatric oncology patients on 6-East. I’d be honored at the opportunity to discuss with you further how we can work together to advocate for and nurture this special patient population.  

Are you picking up your phone to call her right now?

I know I am!

Because she has shown you (the hiring manager), oh-so-eloquently, that she is a team player with the same goals as you.

7. Final salutation for your Nursing Cover Letter 

There are many professional (and not stuffy) ways to sign off your nursing cover letter and make sure that you do so.

Some of my favorites are:

Warm regards Respectfully Cordially The classic: Sincerely

>>Bonus: The Post Script<<

Okay, I’ve included this one as a bonus, but it comes with a disclaimer.

It is incredibly effective .

But only if it’s done really well .

Think of the P.S. as a cliff-hanger.

That last scene of a Netflix show that makes it so easy to click next and watch the next episode (no judgment here!).

If you have something else to say that is so awesome that it must be explained in person, put it in the P.S.

Maybe you started a non-profit organization, or coordinated a mission trip to a developing country, or have an in-the-works research project that’s showing amazing outcomes.

If so, put it in just a little teaser in the P.S., like this:

P.S. I look forward to telling you more about how I coordinated a mission trip that resulted in the vaccination of 341 children.

I’m serious here. It has to be good stuff.

So…are you feeling excited yet about writing your nursing cover letter??

I hope this has given you a good starting point.

If you’re ready to take your résumé and cover letter to the next level, grab my FREE Starter Guide here!

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Cover Letters

How do i write a cover letter for a new grad nursing job.

New Grad RN Cover Letter—Checklist

• Your contact info.
• Personal salutation
• Passion about the position
• Achievements, not responsibilities
• “Picture me here”
• P.S, or hook
• Complimentary close

Do new grad nurses need a cover letter?

  A cover letter is a vital addition to a job application for a nurse (think about your branding). It serves to make a more personal connection with a potential employer while pointing out why you are the best candidate. This letter is crucial and can be the reason you get called in for an interview.  

What should a cover letter include for a new grad RN?

Include information of your achievements, education, program, graduation date, and academic successes. To keep the reader/hiring manager engaged, talk a little about your passion, why you would fit into the company you’re applying to, and why you are interested in this position at this facility.

Career Advice > Job Search > Resumes and Cover Letters > Nursing Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips

Nursing Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips

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Your resume is a snapshot of your credentials and experience, but it does not reveal your personality, enthusiasm, or communication skills. For that, you have a cover letter. Before you review our nursing cover letter examples, let’s address one question: Do you have to send nursing cover letters at all? The short answer is yes, unless a job posting says not to. Let’s look at why cover letters matter and what you should include to get an employer interested in you.

From a healthcare manager’s point of view, it’s important that a team of nursing professionals is full of good-spirited individuals who get along and fit in with the organization. It’s hard to glean that kind of information about a candidate from their nursing resume .

If you can communicate like-minded values and a passion for your work in your cover letter, you’re more likely than not to receive an invitation to interview. In addition to looking at nursing cover letter examples to get ideas and inspiration, you can follow the steps below to learn how to write a nursing cover letter customized specifically for each job to which you apply.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Nursing Job

Most nursing cover letter examples have five to seven paragraphs. That may seem like a long letter, but keep in mind that each section can be just two or three sentences. These are the main components that should be featured:

This is the easy part. You need your name and contact information up top, plus your phone number and email address. Include the job title you’re applying for if it’s not in the first sentence of your introduction.

You probably know how to open a letter with “Dear Fill-in-the-Blank.” To get extra points with the employer, find out who will be reading the letter and use their name. You can search for the HR manager’s name on the organization’s website or LinkedIn, do a Google search, or simply pick up the phone and ask.

Introduction

Your cover letter introduction aims to grab the readers’ attention so they want to continue reading. Tell them what interests you about the job and include a brief sentence about why you’re qualified. You can also tell them why you’re looking for a job — maybe you’ve moved to a new area, been laid off, want to continue to develop your skills, or you just want to take your career to a higher level.

Your Background

Your full job history is on your resume, so don’t repeat it here. Instead, read the job ad sentence by sentence and learn how your background fits the overall job function. For example, imagine an ad asks for experience working in gerontology, and you previously worked in a rehabilitation facility with patients of all ages. Your cover letter is a great place to talk about the work you did specifically with older patients in the facility, what you enjoyed about the work, and something you learned that relates to the job responsibilities in the ad.

Your Qualifications

Tell the reader why you’re the person they should hire. To do this, read the job ad very carefully again and match the crucial keywords. For example, the words manager and supervisor imply the same thing — that you’ve overseen others. If the job is for a manager, and your past title has been supervisor, make the switch and refer to your experience as that of a manager. Continue to match words that represent your qualifications. Putting them in bullet points makes your letter easier to read.

The last sentence or two of your letter should accomplish three tasks:

• Emphasize how you fit the job requirements.
• Thank the recipient for taking the time to read your letter.
• Request the opportunity for an interview.

Choose your closing phrase. Among your choices are sincerely, warm regards, and best regards, followed by your name. Check out our nursing cover letter examples for more sign-off ideas. Don’t forget: To make sure your letter is free of typos, proofread it and ask someone else to take a look as well. You might use an online tool such as Grammarly to pick up mistakes that may have slipped past you.

How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter That Connects: 3 Tips

You can stand out from other nurse cover letter samples by making a genuine connection with a healthcare hiring manager. These three tips can show you how.

1. Show Enthusiasm for the Job

A shower of confetti and the sound of a marching band when the hiring manager opens your letter would be … annoying. You can communicate your enthusiasm for the job by including keywords featured in the job ad and explaining how you match the qualifications. This tells the employer you paid attention to their needs. If you don’t have much of an experience section on your resume and you need to write an entry-level nursing cover letter, this is one area you can and should emphasize.

For example, imagine that the posting says you will be required to record your activities in a weekly report. Rather than just saying you’ve got experience doing that, you can point out how you always enjoyed reviewing your accomplishments during the past week while writing your report. That demonstrates a dedication to the role.

2. Show Enthusiasm for the Organization

You want to make the reader feel special, so be sure to mention a few reasons why you want to work for this particular organization. It can help you stand out as someone who wants this job and not just any old job.

The job ad may have some information about the organization’s mission and values. If not, you may find it on their website on the homepage or in an “about us” section. The key is to write a sentence or two about their values or philosophies that match up with your own.

3. Show Enthusiasm for the Profession

When discussing your job experience, include a sentence about why you chose to work in healthcare or what you like most about it. This shows employers that you’re engaged and committed to contributing to the field.

Nursing Cover Letter Examples

• Caregiver cover letter
• Cardiac nurse cover letter
• Cath lab nurse cover letter
• Clinical nurse specialist cover letter
• CNA cover letter
• Critical care nurse cover letter
• Dermatology nurse cover letter
• Dialysis nurse cover letter
• Director of nursing cover letter
• ER nurse cover letter
• Flight nurse cover letter
• GNA cover letter
• Hospice nurse cover letter
• ICU nurse cover letter
• Infusion nurse cover letter
• Labor and delivery nurse cover letter
• LNA cover letter
• LPN cover letter
• LVN cover letter
• Medical assistant cover letter
• Med-surg nurse cover letter
• Neonatal nurse cover letter
• New grad nurse cover letter
• NICU nurse cover letter
• Nurse anesthetist cover letter
• Nurse manager cover letter
• Nurse midwife cover letter
• Nurse navigator cover letter
• Nurse practitioner cover letter
• Nursing student cover letter
• Occupational health nurse cover letter
• Oncology nurse cover letter
• Operating room nurse cover letter
• PACU nurse cover letter
• Pediatric nurse cover letter
• Postpartum nurse cover letter
• Psychiatric nurse cover letter
• RMA cover letter
• RN cover letter
• RN case manager cover letter
• School nurse cover letter
• SRNA cover letter
• STNA cover letter
• Telemetry nurse cover letter
• Trauma nurse cover letter
• Travel nurse cover letter
• Utilization review nurse cover letter

Is Your Cover Letter Ready to Go?

Find your inspiration in our nursing cover letter examples, then let us help you find a great place to work. Ready to take control of your career? Explore great nursing jobs that are available right now.

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Example of a Nurse Cover Letter (Template+Guide)

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Even though nurses are in demand you still have to bring your “A” game when you’re applying to nurse jobs.

That’s why in this article we’re going to cover how to write a nurse cover letter .

A cover letter is often an afterthought, or not even thought of at all for many nurses.

While there is an increased need for skilled nurses, the nursing field is still highly competitive.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. For more info, please  see my disclaimer . 

The Purpose of a Nurse Cover Letter

When applying for nursing jobs, it helps to have a detailed resume and an effective cover letter. Having a quality cover letter is an essential part of the job-hunting process ( source ).

It acts as an introduction and a summary of skills, and it gives employers an overview of why you’re the right candidate for the job.

A well-crafted cover letter may even make the difference when HR departments struggle to decide between two candidates.

The cover letter is also tailored for each job application.

It should include details related to the specific facility where you’re applying for a job, and it provides a chance for you to explain why your skills match the needs of the employer ( source ).

Before you start writing, I suggest that you take the time to look at a few examples and explore some tips.

Here is everything that you need to know to write a stellar nursing cover letter.

Related Article: Why Your New Nurse Resume is NOT Working

What Should You Include in a Cover Letter for a Nursing Job?

The first step in writing a quality nurse cover letter is ensuring that it includes the required information and follows the standard format.

Here is a quick overview of what you need to include:

• Your contact information
• The addressee’s contact information
• The job listing or title
• The salutation
• The main body
• The call to action
• The sign-off

The letter starts with your name. Make sure you include your certification or licensing status, such as “Jane Smith, RN.” On the second line, add your address, phone number, and email address.

The next section includes the date and the contact information of the hiring manager.

Include the contact’s title, such as “Human Resources Manager.”

If you’re submitting a resume for a job that you find online or in a paper, you may want to reference the source.

For example, “RE: Registered Nurse Entry Position.”

The salutation is a simple greeting. Most cover letters start with “Dear” followed by the contact’s name.

If you don’t know the name of the hiring manager, you can simply include “Dear hiring manager.”

The main body and call to action are the most important parts of the letter. This is where you sell your skills, experience, and traits to make yourself the most attractive candidate on paper.

The sign off is a simple ending to the letter.

Candidates often sign off with “best regards” or “sincerely.” If you want to come across as being more original, you can use a synonym, such as:

• “Regards”
• “Yours sincerely”
• “Yours respectfully”

Avoid anything too personal, such as:

• “ Cheers”
• “Love”
• “Take care”
• “Best wishes”

Related Article: What You Should Bring to a Nurse Interview

What Details Should You Discuss in the Body?

Other than the contact information, salutation, and sign off, you’ll include a few short paragraphs to help sell yourself. These sections include the main body and call to action. The body contains three parts:

• Achievements

Hiring managers typically scan the cover letter to see if anything is out of place or missing, such as the hiring manager’s name.

After a quick scan, they’ll read the opening paragraph, which is where you need to hook them.

The hook should include two to three lines that promote your skills and build interest.

Toward the end of the article, I’ll provide a couple of examples so that you can see what an effective hook looks like.

The second paragraph discusses why you want the job and why you’re the most qualified candidate. Don’t simply list the number of years that you’ve worked or say that you like to help treat patients.

This section needs to maintain interest from the opening paragraph.

End the second paragraph with a line drawing attention to your achievements, such as “among my accomplishments.” These two short paragraphs are followed by a bullet point list of your biggest achievements.

Again, don’t simply list your certifications or past employment.

Those details are included in the resume. This is where you include information that isn’t typically added to the resume.

Consider any major challenges that you’ve overcome or initiatives that you helped get off the ground.

For example, perhaps you’ve trained nurses or helped establish a blood drive that allowed your hospital to achieve a new record. Include three or four bullet points.

You don’t want to fill the cover letter with a lengthy highlight reel of your achievements.

The body ends with a short sentence summarizing why you’re interested in the job.

For example, “I’m looking forward to how much more I can achieve in a setting like NAME OF HOSPITAL.”

Related Article: Common Nurse Interview Questions + Answers

How to Write an Effective Call to Action

After the body, it’s time to write the call to action. Calls to action are used in marketing to give potential customers a clear direction.

When you view a product page, you may see a button that says, “click here to get the best price” or “sign up today to get a free gift.” The call to action is asking you to perform a specific action.

The call to action at the end of your cover letter should ask the hiring manager to contact you to set up an interview.

This is another portion of the cover letter where you don’t want to simply state facts, such as, “I’d appreciate if you contact me to set up an interview at a time that is convenient.”

You want to use this closing line to stand out from other candidates.

You may even use the call to action to remind the hiring manager of your past accomplishments. Here’s a short example:

“Can we arrange a meeting to explore how my experience and drive can help increase patient care at HOSPITAL?”

In marketing, the call to action is typically just three to seven words. With a nursing cover letter, it can be a full sentence.

The goal of this sentence is to summarize the point of the cover letter in a question.

You want to arrange an interview, but you need to tell the hiring manager why they should contact you instead of the dozens of other candidates.

Asking a question also forces the person reading your letter to consider a response before they even open the rest of the resume.

Related Article: 10 Must-Know Nurse Interview Tips

How Do You Know What the Hiring Manager Is Looking for?

One of the main purposes of the cover letter is to show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job, so how do you know what they want?

The details are often included in the job description.

When you look at dozens of job listings, it’s easy to skim the details and focus on whether you meet the qualifications.

Within the details, you’ll often find specific traits, skills, or experience that the hospital or healthcare facility wants in a new nurse. Most job listings include the following information:

• Hospital Name
• Position requirements
• Position responsibilities

The position responsibilities typically include the details that can help you stand out as the most qualified nurse.

You may see a listing that includes the following responsibilities:

“Perform approved therapeutic procedures and diagnostic procedures while assisting the MDs with medical procedures.”

Find at least one aspect of the listed responsibilities where you can showcase your talents or experience.

You may have experience in an ER assisting MDs or perhaps you’ve trained doctors in how to use the latest diagnostic equipment.

Always thoroughly read the job description while trying to find connections to your past achievements.

Make a note of any specific details where you can illustrate your skills or previous projects. You can use this information when crafting the main body of your cover letter.

Review Sample Nurse Cover Letters for Nursing Jobs

The last step in preparing your own cover letter is to look at a couple of examples.

The first one is for an entry-level position, making it a suitable example for those applying for their first nursing jobs .

The second example represents a nurse with several years of experience looking to further his or her nursing skills.

Nurse Cover Letter Example 1 – Entry-Level Nursing Position

Your Name, RN

Your city, State (abbreviated) zip code | phone number | email address

Current date

Hiring manager’s name Hiring manager’s job title Example Hospital Address City, state, zip code

RE: Entry-Level Registered Nursing Position

Dear Ms. Smith,

Graduating with high honors from Example University and achieving the highest grade on my NCLEX-RN exam are two of my most satisfying accomplishments. I would be even more satisfied utilizing my education to help improve the quality of patient care at Example Hospital.

With three years of clinical experience, I have had the chance to work in a variety of settings. Example Hospital always stood out as a place that truly put the patients first. I believe this is the perfect environment for me to further my real-world training and shine. Here are several of my past achievements:

● Finished first in my class at the respected Example University Nursing School.

● Established an outreach program to provide health education to senior citizens.

● Led a blood drive program with local high schools to promote health education in the schools.

Education has been my focus for the past few years, and I’m excited to continue this education at Example Hospital.

Can we arrange a meeting to consider the ways that my commitment can help Example Hospital’s patients?

Best regards,

You may have noticed that this cover letter doesn’t include a list of certifications or skills.

If the job requires specific certifications, knowledge of patient records and charting systems, and communication skills, you don’t need to list them on the cover letter, as they’ll be included in the resume.

Nurse Cover Letter Sample 2 – Experienced Nursing Position

Y our Name, RN

RE: Experienced Nurse Practitioner

The last three years of my life have been committed to reducing workplace hazards, helping to make my facility one of the safest healthcare facilities in the region. I would love to bring this same level of commitment to Example Hospital.

As a nurse practitioner with five years of experience, I appreciate the practices put in place at Example Hospital. The systems that your facility already has in place should provide the perfect environment for my skills and expertise to have the biggest impact. My previous accomplishments include:

● Established a system for reducing exposure to hazardous materials, reducing workplace accidents by 80% in three years.

● Led an initiative that helped form a partnership with a local college to provide clinical rotations to nursing students.

● Became the lead nurse in charge of scheduling , helping to reduce work hours by 10% without reducing the quality of patient care.

I look forward to bringing these same skills to a patient-focused facility like Example Hospital.

Can we arrange a meeting to review how my experience can address the needs of Example Hospitals’ patients?

Yours sincerely,

These cover letters are short, to the point, and help highlight several unique achievements that you may not have room to include in the resume.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nurse Cover Letters

1. do you need special formatting or paper for the nursing cover letter.

Besides the content of your letter, you need to consider the paper, ink, font, margins, and styling. Use 10pt or 12pt text sizes with simple fonts, such as:

• Courier New
• Times New Roman

Don’t choose a font that is hard to read or cartoonish, such as Comic Sans. Stick to black ink and only use one font for the entire letter.

If the text is difficult to read, your resume will likely get tossed.

Resumes are printed on standard 8.5 x 11-inch paper. It’s the size that fits in most folders, filing cabinets, and printers.

The paper that you use for the resume should also match the paper used for the cover letter.

Most people use plain white paper. Avoid any specialized resume paper with thick scrollwork or frilly borders.

While bright paper should be avoided, you can use a very lightly tinted paper with a hint of blue, gray, pink, or tan.

This can help your cover letter stand out without the hiring manager needing to read a single sentence.

2. Do Nurses Need a Cover Letter?

Absolutely they do.

A cover letter can make the difference between you getting the job interview or not. A nurse cover letter provides additional information related to your nursing resume.

It’s also a way for you to highlight or add additional skill sets or experiences you think will be needed for the job.

3. What are Some Easy Tips for Writing a Good Nursing Cover Letter?

• Keep it short, sweet and to the point.
• Make sure to change the cover letter based on what job your applying for. Don’t just use the same cover letter for every job application.
• Personal Stories are found as long as they enhance your resume and go along with what the facility is looking for.
• Make sure to show some passion and enthusiasm for the job your applying for.
• Proofread! Proofread! Proofread!

We hope you found these tips helpful in helping you get and ace your next nursing interview.

Related Articles to Nurse Cover Letter

• How to Set Smart Goals in Nursing
• Nurse Burnout Prevention
• Example Resignation Letter for Nurses
• Example of a Nursing Interview Thank You Letter (Template)

About the Author

Thomas Uzuegbunem is a registered nurse who graduated with a bachelor’s in business and went on to get his bachelor’s of science in nursing. He’s worked in the ICU, mental health (inpatient, outpatient), & GI specialty areas. He’s the lead editor and founder of Nurse Money Talk.

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Nurse Cover Letter Example

Whether you’ve just finished nursing school and are searching for your first job or you’ve been in the nursing profession for a while and just want a change of scenery, you’ll need a strong cover letter to get where you want to go. In this guide to nursing cover letters, you’ll learn practical tips to support your job search and make your application stand out.

Why a profession-specific cover letter matters 

Whereas a resume or CV is a concise rundown of your skills, experience, and certifications, a cover letter offers a chance to showcase your personality, values, and career goals. Your nursing cover letter should offer a quick, concise glimpse into who you are as a nursing professional.

This is your chance to showcase your passion for providing quality patient care and demonstrate your critical thinking skills. You should also briefly explain why you want to work at the medical facility that posted the job. When hiring managers understand who you are and what motivates you, they’ll feel more confident bringing you into the fold.

Key components of a nursing-specific cover letter 

Your nursing cover letter needs to include a broad spectrum of information about your nursing education, quality patient care, and nursing skills. It should also include the following key components:

• Personalized Greeting: Address the hiring manager by name to show attention to detail and avoid sounding generic
• Introduction: Clearly state the nursing position you’re applying for and how you learned about it
• Professional Experience: Recap your nursing experience, focusing on relevant areas to the position; mention specific roles, responsibilities, and achievements
• Skills and Certifications: Highlight any special skills or certifications that set you apart, such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC)
• Personal Attributes: Outline your soft skills and attributes, such as communication, emotional intelligence, and passion
• Motivation and Enthusiasm: Express your enthusiasm for the position and medical facility you’re applying to
• Closing Statement: Conclude by summarizing your qualifications, expressing your desire for an interview, and thanking the reader for their time

To land your dream job, you’ll need an eye-catching cover letter and a well-organized resume to match. If you need a rundown of what to include on your resume, check out our helpful resume examples . Before you know it, you’ll be sending out applications and booking interviews.

Nurse Cover letter format 

Much like your resume , your nurse cover letter should follow a standardized format to ensure that it includes all requisite information. Here’s the basic structure:

• Header: Include your contact information at the top, followed by the date, then the employer’s contact information
• Greetings: If you know the hiring manager’s name, address them directly 
• Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and state the position you’re applying for
• Body: Sum up your experience, skills, and motivation in a few paragraphs
• Closing: Express your interest in an interview, thank the reader, and mention why you believe you’d be an asset to the organization
• Signature: End with a professional closing and your signature

While your nursing cover letter needs to include lots of information, hiring managers don’t want to read your life story. Stick to this basic format and make sure every sentence has a purpose and helps you stand out from other applicants.

Sample cover letter for nursing

Jane Cares [email protected] (512) 555-5555 Austin, TX 73301

Sandra Hyres Austin Rehabilitation Center  123 Main St, Austin, TX 73301  30 October 2023

Dear Ms. Hyres,

My name is Jane Cares, and I am writing to express my interest in the Registered Nurse position at Austin Rehabilitation Center as advertised on Jobseeker. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fairfield University and four years of dedicated experience in a fast-paced hospital setting, I am eager to bring my blend of clinical expertise and compassionate patient care to your healthcare team.

In my current role at Austin Hospital, I handle a diverse set of responsibilities that range from administering medications and developing patient care plans to assisting with emergency care and offering emotional support to patients and their families. I primarily work with elderly patients and those recovering from major operations, which has provided me with a skill set that aligns with the objectives and scope of care provided by your facility. 

My experience in the palliative care department has instilled in me the importance not just of clinical skills but also empathy, patience, and effective communication. I am proud of my involvement in a project to improve patient satisfaction scores, which we successfully raised by 10% through targeted improvements in patient communication and care protocols.

I am drawn to Austin Rehabilitation Center because of its commitment to extending the quality of life of its patients and its innovative rehabilitation program. I share this commitment and am excited about the opportunity to contribute to such a forward-thinking initiative. 

Furthermore, I am adept at working in interdisciplinary teams and remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations. I possess considerable proficiency in electronic health record systems and have acquired numerous certifications. I am also a fast learner and will be able to quickly acclimate to your organization’s record-keeping and charting software.

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my unique skills and passion for nursing to Austin Rehabilitation Center. I am dedicated to providing the highest quality of care and continuing to develop professionally to meet the ever-evolving demands of the nursing profession.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and commitment to nursing excellence can contribute to the compassionate care that Austin Rehabilitation Center provides. I am available at your convenience for an interview. 

Respectfully,

Attachments: Resume

Dos and Don’ts 

As you look over various nursing cover letter examples, it’s wise to remember some general “dos” and “don’ts” that will help you write a great letter.

• Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and facility
• Use a professional tone and clear language
• Highlight your achievements with specific examples
• Show your knowledge about the healthcare facility and its values
• Proofread for grammar and spelling errors 
• Use a generic cover letter
• Include irrelevant personal information or overly personal anecdotes
• Simply repeat your resume; instead, provide context and depth to your experiences
• Underestimate the value of a great closing statement
• Forget to follow up if you haven’t heard back in a week or two

It’s also important to make sure your resume template and nurse cover letter template match — you can imagine how embarrassing it would be if there were subtle (or not-so-subtle) discrepancies between the two documents. Even something as small as a variation in font size and style could hurt your chances of landing the job. 

Additional tips 

As you can see, a lot goes into creating the ideal nursing cover letter. Here are some extra nursing cover letter tips to help you craft the perfect cover letter. 

• Research the Facility: Understanding its culture, values, and patient population can help you customize your cover letter
• Use Keywords: Many healthcare facilities use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to process resumes and cover letters; use keywords in your cover letter to help your application make it past these systems
• Be Concise: Limit your cover letter to one page, as the hiring managers will likely be reviewing dozens of applications 
• Tell a Story: When appropriate, use a brief story to illustrate your passion for nursing and relevant experience
• Follow Up: If you haven’t heard back in a week or two, send a polite follow-up email

We recommend checking out our CV examples so you can craft the perfect resume to go with your cover letter.

Distinguish yourself with our nursing cover letter examples 

When it comes to writing a cover letter, nursing professionals like yourself must adhere to established best practices while finding ways to make your application stand out. This can admittedly be tough, especially if you’re new to the nursing profession or are participating in a highly competitive hiring process.

The good news is that our nursing cover letter templates can jumpstart your writing process. Make sure to check out our resume and CV templates too. Together, Jobseeker’s vast selection of resources will take the hassle out of applying for nursing jobs and help you land the position of your dreams.

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High School Cover Letter Example

Nursing Cover Letter Example

Crafting a perfect cover letter is not an easy thing. It is a chance to present yourself and show the hiring manager your expertise and skills. Before you apply for the nurse position, you should know how to write a cover letter that works. Our article will help you overcome this challenge. Here, you will find a cover letter sample nursing and answers to these questions:

• what to include in the cover letter;
• how to format and structure it;
• how to present the information effectively.

If you need a cover letter fast, you can use our cover letter builder with 20+ templates. Get the assistance of a certified cover letter writer service and use the tips from our best career experts.

Cover Letter for Nursing [Example]

Before applying for a job position, make sure that your cover letter nursing is readable and corresponds to the requirements of the professional cover letter. In the cover letter example nursing, you can find all data to include step by step. 

Check the cover letter for the nursing example below to ensure that you followed all the recommendations.

Miranda Peterson

4558 Blossom Street

New York City

525-045-678-05

[email protected]

[Date when you send the cover letter]

Hiring Manager’s Name

354 Company Address

Sacramento, CA, 94567

(xxx)-xxx-xxx-xx

[email protected]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx.] [Hiring Manager’s Surname],

I am writing to express my interest in the position (Title of the Position). I believe that my 2 years of expertise as a nurse practitioner at Saint Andrew Hospital and my enthusiasm make me a perfect candidate for this position. My medical and leadership skills will help me become a good head nurse in your department.

The attached resume highlights that I am a professional in this field, well-versed in patient care, leadership, and multitasking. My key achievements demonstrate that I can cooperate with the team and be a good head nurse to manage all the processes in your hospital. Also, I am a perfect communicator able to speak Spanish.

I decided to try myself at the position of a head nurse after Professor Miller recommended joining the Saint Andrew Hospital crew. 

Could we schedule the meeting this week to discuss how I could participate in the training program for the candidates? 

Thank you for taking the time to review my application. Do not hesitate to call me at 525-045-678-05 or email me at [email protected].

Nursing Cover Letter Template

The structure of the cover letter is crucial to organize the information appropriately. Do not forget about these recommendations from our nursing cover letter template to make your letter well-organized:

• start with a heading (your contact details);
• the cover letter should include approximately 3-5 paragraphs;
• divide the cover letter into several sections;
• finish with salutation. 

Don't forget of your Linkedin profile! Now it is a new priority! If you need help, be aware our Linkedin writing services always have your back!

Ultimate Guide on How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter

No doubt that writing a nursing cover letter is quite hard without professional guidance. It’s necessary to practice to master writing skills. That’s why we researched all information about cover letters and shared the tips with you in this article. Additionally, you can use our nursing cover letter example to craft your own.

If you still have some questions, our writers are always ready to provide you support and assistance at any time. We will also discuss all issues related to cover letter writing in detail. Let’s start with the formatting of the cover letter and its specific features.

Adhere to Letter Formatting Recommendations

When searching for the answer to the questions on how to write a nursing cover letter, you want to know the formatting recommendations. To impress the recruiter with a professional letter before the interview, follow this guide:

• use eye-friendly fonts;
• 1.15 spacing and 1 inch per edge margins;
• add white spaces between the paragraphs.

Cover Letter Heading

The next important thing is how you start your cover letter. It always begins with the header where you put your personal data and contact details. The hiring manager pays attention to the top of the cover letter for nurse during the first seconds, so you should organize it correctly. 

Cover Letter Sample for Nursing [Heading]

Look through this cover letter for nursing sample to understand how to format it effectively. 

Contact details are crucial for the hiring manager to answer your letter and invite you to the job interview. 

Date and Company Details on Cover Letter

The next step is to indicate the date and the company details. Follow the example cover letter for nursing to submit this section. Place the date after the header and then mention the recruiter’s name, the name of the company, and its address.

Example Cover Letter Nursing [Date and Company Details]

Adhere to the cover letter nursing example below to format everything professionally. You can always use font size or bold text to highlight this part of the letter.

Sacramento, CA, 10028

Cover Letter Greeting

The greeting is the next important component of the nursing cover letters, and beginning it correctly results in a good first impression. The cover letter greeting should start with the name of the hiring manager. But if you don’t know the name, replace it with “Dear Marketing Team” or something like this.

Cover Letter Example for Nursing [Greeting]

Use this cover letter greeting to write your own. Our professional career experts provided a cover letter sample nursing for you to know how to organize each of the sections. 

I am writing to express my interest in the position (Title of the Position). 

What to Include in a Nursing Cover Letter [Body]

The body of the cover letter is the opportunity to promote yourself and show all your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Make sure that you add only relevant information. It should take approximately two or three paragraphs. Adhere to our sample nursing cover letter to ensure that you mentioned all necessary data. 

Nursing Cover Letter Sample [Body]

Look through the nursing cover letter samples and include similar data in your body.

I am writing to express my interest in the position (Title of the Position). I believe that my 2 years of expertise as a nurse practitioner at Saint Andrew Hospital and my enthusiasm make me a perfect candidate for this position. 

Closing Paragraph for Cover Letter

Many people think that only the first paragraph matters in the cover letter. But the closing paragraph is crucial to mention the person who can recommend you or make it eye-catching for the recruiter. Consult the cover letter nursing sample to see what information you can include in this section for getting hired.

Nursing Cover Letter Example [Closing]

See the cover letter example nursing and use one of the techniques listed above to write your own closing paragraph. 

You can still get help from a nursing resume writing service to make your resume stand out.

Skills to Highlight in CV

Mentioning the skills in the body of the cover letter helps show that you are the perfect candidate for the position. Also, hard and soft skills can be used as keywords for the applicant tracking system (ATS). 

While analyzing the cover letter nursing example, you can find some samples of the skills to include in your letter:

• patient and family education;
• compassion;
• critical thinking;
• communication skills;
• multitasking;
• patient care;
• leadership;
• dedication.

Do not forget to maintain a balance between the interpersonal and professional skills in your cover letter.

Search for the Keywords in Company’s Job Posts

One more important issue while writing a cover letter is to mention the keywords (like hard and soft skills in the previous section). You can search for some examples of job advertisements and read the description of the position. In these job posts, you can find the clues to mention in your letter. 

Even if you know how to write a cover letter for a nursing job, the keywords increase the chances of applying to the desired company. That’s why do not skip this recommendation.

Wrapping Up

Now you know all the secrets of writing a cover letter example for nursing, how to divide the letter into sections, and how to present the data effectively. Also, you can use sample cover letters for nursing to compose your own. Do not forget to follow these simple recommendations:

• divide the cover letter into several sections (heading, greeting, body, and the closing paragraph);
• format the letter according to the basic requirements;
• mention only relevant information;
• the body of the letter aims to present you as the best candidate.

If the example cover letter nursing is not enough for you, remember that our best professional resume writing services are always ready to provide assistance and answer all your questions. Do not hesitate to use our writing service to get the job of your dream with ease.

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More Cover Letter Examples

Nurse cover letter examples

You love being there for your patients, ensuring they get the care, attention and treatment they need.

But in order to keep doing that, you need to secure your next rewarding nursing position, and that requires you to effectively showcase your relevant qualifications and experience.

In the guide below, we’ll share our expert writing advice, complete with nurse cover letter examples to help you with your application.

CV templates 

Nurse cover letter example 1

Nurse cover letter example 2

Nurse cover letter example 3

The Nurse cover letter examples above should give you a good idea of the type of content you need to include in your own cover letter, and how it should be structured.

But if you’re really looking to wow recruiters and get your CV in front of the very best employers, then check out our guidance on how to write your own effective cover letter below.

How to write a Nurse cover letter

Here’s how to write your own winning Nurse cover letter

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When writing your Nurse cover letter, it’s best to type the content into the body of your email (or the job site messaging system) and not to attach the cover letter as a separate document.

This ensures that your cover letter gets seen as soon as a recruiter or employer opens your message.

If you attach the cover letter as a document, you’re making the reader go through an unnecessary step of opening the document before reading it.

If it’s in the body of the message itself, it will be seen instantly, which hugely increases the chances of it being read.

Start with a friendly greeting

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

After you have greeted the recruiter, it’s important to state the job you are applying to.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so they need to know exactly which job you are referring to.

Be as specific as possible and use a reference number if you can find one.

Here are some examples you can use;

• I am interested in applying for the role of admin assistant with your organisation.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 4057393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advertisement for a trainee project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

Sign off professionally

To round of your cover letter, add a professional signature to the bottom, giving recruiters your vital contact information.

This not only gives various means of contacting you, it also looks really professional and shows that you know how to communicate in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Gerald Baker Senior Accountant 07887500404 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application email, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Nurse cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Nurse cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Nurse cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Nurse cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Good morning, Michelle

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to express my keen interest in the Mental Health Nurse position at Bluebird House. With 12 years of experience working in inpatient care facilities, I bring compassionate care and expertise in delivering high-quality support to diverse mental health patients.

Throughout my career, I have had a strong track record of using therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), to reduce readmissions effectively. Working collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, I provide holistic care and crisis intervention, ensuring patient safety. At Bedfordshire Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, I successfully introduced a relapse prevention program, reducing readmissions by 21%, and implemented a patient-led care plan system that improved patient engagement by 22%. In secure psychiatric hospital settings, I have led self-harm reduction programs resulting in a 34% decrease in incidents, adopted by multiple centres. Additionally, I hold certifications including the Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Trauma-Informed Care Training as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing from the University of Surrey.

I am eager to discuss how my skills and experience align with your facility’s mission. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Patrick Dawn

I hope this email finds you in good health. I am excited to submit application for the Practice Nurse position at Park Road Surgery, and feel my skill and experience make me an exceptionally fit for the vacancy.

With 8 years of experience in general practice, I possess expertise in managing acute and chronic diseases, specialising in Diabetes management and health education. In my current role at Crawley Road Surgery, I provide comprehensive nursing care to 2,100 registered patients, conducting assessments, administering vaccinations, and managing chronic conditions. Notably, I have improved patient satisfaction by 25% in four years through a feedback system and set up a successful asthma clinic with a 34% improvement in patient outcomes. As a Nurse Independent Prescriber (NIP) with Advanced Life Support (ALS) training and Level 3 Certified Diabetes Coordinator qualification, I am equipped to deliver high-quality care.

I am eager to join your healthcare team and contribute to exceptional patient service. I am available for an interview at your convenience.

I hope you are well. As a compassionate and dedicated Oncology Certified Nurse with 6 years of experience providing specialist care to cancer patients, I am enthusiastic about the Oncology Nurse vacancy at Leeds General Infirmary.

In my current role as part of the cancer team at St. Vincent’s Hospital, I collaborate closely with oncologists to deliver personalised care, ensuring patients receive the utmost support throughout their treatment journey. My ability to administer chemotherapy, conduct nursing assessments, and advocate for patients has contributed to their improved outcomes. Some examples of this include implementing a pain management protocol that resulted in a remarkable 30% reduction in pain scores among oncology patients and conducting educational workshops that increased patient understanding of treatment options by 25%.

I possess the skills and expertise to administer a broad range of chemotherapy treatments, manage symptoms, and offer crucial emotional support which I believe would make a great fit for your team. I am available for an interview from next week.

Kind regards,

Helen Smith

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Nurse job, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

6 New Grad Nurse Cover Letter Examples + How To Write

Finding your first nursing position after graduation can be a daunting task. Knowing what steps to take to find your dream job will help propel you toward your goal of gainful employment as an RN. Once you have prepared an excellent resume, be aware that you have one final action to take in the application process; that of a persuasive cover letter. You may be unclear about how to write an exceptional cover letter and wonder what are some excellent examples of new grad cover letters? Using a professionally prepared cover letter as a guide is a great way to learn how to compose a top-notch document. Read the following article “6 best new grad nurse cover letter examples + how to write” for recommendations that will help you get started on your best ever nursing cover letter without stress.

What Exactly Is A New Grad Nurse Cover Letter?

How is a new grad nurse cover letter different from an experienced nurse cover letter, 4 reasons why an excellent cover letter makes a difference to new grad nurses, 1. nurses are professional-, 2. leads to an interview-, 3. expands on resume-, 4. you may be up against experienced nurses-, what are some excellent examples of new grad nurse cover letters, example #1: cover letter of diane joyner, what makes this an excellent new grad registered nurse cover letter:, example #2: cover letter of jan bock, example #3: cover letter of joan zimmerman, example #4: cover letter of lizzie arndt, what makes this an excellent new grad registered nurse cover letter: new grad nurse cover letter examples, example #5: cover letter of lynn horton, example #6: cover letter of paul linney, how to write an excellent new grad rn cover letter, 1. heading-.

• Your Name and Contact Information • The date • The recipient's name and address

2. Opening Paragraph-

• Your professional credentials (RN or BSN) • Which specific job you are applying for • A few brief points about why you are a great fit • Why you want to work for this particular institution or position

3. Background-

4. qualifications-.

• Specific clinical experience • Other job or volunteer transferable experience • " Soft skills " such as communication, leadership, group experience, compassion, and problem-solving

5. Closing Paragraph and Sign-Off-

6. don't just reiterate your resume-, 7. outshine with your willingness to learn-, 8. detail why you want the job-, 9. showcase your exceptional side-, 10. fashion the letter to the exact position-, 11. show your passion-.

• Adaptability • Ease with technology • Willing to accept change • Eager and positive attitude • Fresh perspective

12. Proof Read-

7 common mistakes to avoid when writing your new grad nurse cover letter, 1. too general-, 2. improper format-, 3. too wordy-, 4. duplicate resume-, 5. not selling yourself to the job-, 6. too informal-, 7. spelling and grammar errors-, 3 consequences of a poorly written new grad rn cover letter, 1. you may not be granted an interview-, 2. you may misrepresent yourself-, 3. compensation and opportunities may be compromised-, my final thoughts, frequently asked questions answered by our expert, 1. what is the difference between new grad nurse cover letter and new grad nurse cv, 2. is a cover letter necessary for a new grad nurse, 3. can i use the same cover letter for all new grad nurse positions i'm applying for, 4. how many cover letters do i need when applying for new grad nurse job positions, 5. can my new grad nurse cover letter expire, 6. my new grad nurse job applications says a cover letter is optional, should i still submit one, 7. do cover letters for new grad nurses have to be long, 8. as a new grad nurse, when should i write my cover letter, 9. what should be included in a new grad nursing cover letter.

• Heading • Salutation • Opening paragraph of who you are and your intentions for which specific job • Background paragraph, where you highlight your education and clinical experience • Qualification paragraph, which is used to “sell” the employer on your qualities and abilities as a nurse • Closing paragraph and sign-off

10. What Should Not Be Included In A New Grad Nursing Cover Letter?

11. how much time does it take to write a cover letter for a new grad nurse, 12. can i ask someone else to write my new grad nurse cover letter, 13. is it a good idea to use ready templates to write my new grad nurse cover letter, 14. are there any online apps or tools that make writing a good cover letter for a new grad nurse easy.