QuestionsAnswered.net

What's Your Question?

How to Write a Job Application Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.

Write a First Draft

Writing a first draft makes your letter concise and professional, states The Balance Careers. Organize your thoughts by making a list of what you’re trying to convey. Make sure you prioritize certain aspects like your previous job experience and why you would be a good fit for the position. Clearly state what position you’re interested in and why. Think about why you’re applying and what caught your eye about this specific position. Your cover letter will be easier to write after your thoughts are collected and organized.

Customize Your Salutation

When writing a salutation, make sure you know who you are writing to. Is this person the owner of the company or a Human Resources administrator? If you’re not sure, research the company to find out. Addressing your cover letter to a specific person shows initiative and attention to detail. After your salutation, start your letter with a short introduction of yourself. This gives future employers insight into who you are and the purpose of your cover letter.

Write Intentionally

Your cover letter should be no more than one page, so keep your points brief. Clearly state what position you are interested in and why. Explain why you are a good fit for the company because of your past job experience. If you have no similar job experience, let the employer know why you are changing career paths. Expand on your skills and give specific examples of how that skill set helped you at your last position. Name projects you’ve worked on and show results.

Close Your Letter

End your cover letter with a brief sentence and sign off. Thank the employer for their time and express your interest towards the job again. Let them know you’ll follow up with them if you do not hear back within a week and leave your contact information. Sign off with a professional farewell and leave room for a signature if sending a hard copy.

Edit and Proofread

As you finish writing your cover letter, make sure you take time to edit and proofread your document. Make sure it’s structured in a professional format with the company’s information, the salutation and introduction, the body of the letter, a brief closing sentence and farewell. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes to ensure a formal result. Make sure all names are spelled correctly, as well.

MORE FROM QUESTIONSANSWERED.NET

best sample application letter for job

Oh no! We couldn't find anything like that.

Try another search, and we'll give it our best shot.

The 12 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

Amanda Zantal-Wiener

Published: February 16, 2023

Fun is not something typically associated with writing a cover letter. However, with a few tweaks, writing one doesn’t have to be a burden.

job seeker reviewing best cover letter examples

The cover letter examples below demonstrate that it is possible to have a little fun with your job search — and maybe even make yourself a better candidate in the process.

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

What is a good cover letter?

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

It may be true that only 35% of recruiters admit that cover letters do not materially influence the hiring process for them , but that doesn't mean yours has to contribute to that statistic. In fact, it might be that cover letters are deemed insignificant because so few of them stand out. Here's an opportunity for you to exercise your creativity at the earliest stage of the recruitment process.

Personalization, after all, goes beyond replacing the title and company name in each letter you send to recruiters.

What’s on a cover letter?

Before you can get started writing your cover letter, there are a few components you must have.

Greeting: A simple, but pleasant greeting to address the recruiter or hiring manager.

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

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

Closing: In this paragraph, provide a call-to-action by expressing interest in an interview. Provide your contact information and sign-off.

What does a cover letter look like?

In addition to showing off your skills and qualifications, cover letters give you the opportunity to present a clear, concise, and compelling writing sample that shows off your personality and ability to convey ideas. Check out our fillable examples below to see how you should organize the content of your cover letter.

Customizable Cover Letter Examples

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

1. Standard Cover Letter Example

cover letter examples: standard cover letter

This standard cover letter hits all the right notes: It includes a space to give a brief summary of your experience, as well as a space to delve in-depth into the specific responsibilities at your current role. You also have the chance to describe the challenges you’ve mastered at previous roles, showing that you’re capable of facing any problem that comes your way.

Why We Love It

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

2. Data-Driven Cover Letter Sample

cover letter examples: data driven cover letter

Numbers are worth a million words — or that’s how the saying should probably go (if only we could include pictures in cover letters). Citing data and statistics about your achievements at your current company is an assured way to capture a hiring manager’s attention. Most hiring managers don’t read the entire letter, so a bulleted summary of your achievements can be a powerful way to increase the effectiveness and scannability of your message.

We love this cover letter because it’s adaptable to any role. Even if you don’t work in a data-centric role, you can include any enumerable achievement. If you’re in a creative industry, for instance, you can include the number of creative assets you designed for your current company.

3. Entry-Level Cover Letter Example

cover letter examples: entry-level cover letter

Download a Customizable Copy of This Cover Letter Example

Applying to your first job can be stress-inducing, to say the least. You can increase your chances of getting that first interview by including a cover letter that explains how your education can help you succeed in the role you applied for.

Look no further than this example from HubSpot. While other cover letter samples give experienced professionals the opportunity to share their experience at length, this one gives you the chance to describe your personal and professional attributes. You can then convey how you can leverage your knowledge to help your target company reach their goals.

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

Looking for more? Download the entire kit below.

5 Professional Cover Letter Templates

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

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

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

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

We’ve already covered the importance of addressing how you’ll best execute a certain role in your cover letter. But there’s another question you might want to answer: Why the heck do you want to work here?

The Muse , a career guidance site, says that it’s often best to lead with the why — especially if it makes a good story. We advise against blathering on and on, but a brief tale that illuminates your desire to work for that particular employer can really make you stand out.

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

Image Source

Here’s another instance of the power of personalization. The author of this cover letter clearly has a passion for this prospective employer — the Chicago Cubs — and if she’s lying about it, well, that probably would eventually be revealed in an interview.

Make sure your story is nonfiction and relatable according to each job. While we love a good tale of childhood baseball games, an introduction like this one probably wouldn’t be fitting in a cover letter for, say, a software company. But a story of how the hours you spent playing with DOS games as a kid led to your passion for coding? Sure, we’d find that fitting.

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

Why This Is A Great Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

"Content Marketing Certified" indicates the applicant has taken the content marketing certification course in our HubSpot Academy (you can take the same course here ). Our "records" indicate he/she did indeed give an interview with us before — and was a HubSpot customer.

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

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

(Yes, the applicant was hired).

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

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

HubSpot has a lot of H.E.A.R.T. — Humble, Empathetic, Adaptable, Remarkable, Transparent. Our Culture Code is the foundation of the company's culture, the driving force behind our mission to help millions grow better , and serves as the scaffolding for our hiring practices. Recruiters at HubSpot look for applicants that demonstrate how they embody the Culture Code and job description, paying extra attention to cover letters that are super custom to HubSpot.

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

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

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

Featured Resource: 5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Cover-Letter-Templates

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

Short Cover Letter Examples

4. the short-and-sweet cover letter.

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

Short and sweet cover letter example with only three sentences

One might argue that this particular letter is less than outstanding. It’s brief, to say the least, and the author doesn’t go into a ton of detail about what makes him or her qualified for the job in question. But that’s what Silverman likes about it — the fact that the applicant only included the pieces of information that would matter the most to the recipient.

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

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

The key to this standout cover letter is research — by looking into who you’ll be reporting to and learning more about that person’s leadership style, you’ll be better prepared to tailor your cover letter to focus on how you provide solutions for them.

5. The Short Story

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

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

You'll notice that her short story follows a typical narrative arc: It has a conflict/obstacle, a turning point, and a positive outcome, all created with a goal to emphasize a theme or point. In this case, Coleman is emphasizing her existing affinity with the brand and her triumphs within the program so that she can continue on her career path.

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

6. The Bare Bones Cover Letter

In today's job market, cover letters aren't always necessary. Even though many recruiters won't ask for or even read them, cover letters can still be effective and convey personality to a reader. Writing a strong cover letter can help you better convey your interest in the position and company.

This template from The Balance Careers puts together the essential components of a short cover letter: excitement about the position, your qualifications, and a call-to-action for the recruiter to follow up with you. Combining these central aspects in a well-written, compelling narrative will go a long way in convincing readers to hire you.

short cover letter example with summarized bullet points

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

7. The Breezy Follow-Up

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

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

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

8. The Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

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

Cover Letter Example: Admin Cover Letter

It’s clear that she’s passionate about not only the music industry, but Epic as a whole. She’s done so much research on the company that she knows what software programs they use, and happens to be proficient in it to help convey value to the hiring manager.

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

In just three short paragraphs, the applicant uses their company research to drive home why they are the perfect fit for the role — emphasizing industry experience as well as software knowledge specific to the company. All of this communicates that she’d be able to start with very few hiccups getting up to speed.

9. The Internship Cover Letter

Maybe you’re just getting started in your career and looking to land the right internship to gain experience in your field. In this case, you’ll need to highlight more of your educational background and transferable skills since you won’t have as much professional experience to highlight.

Cover Letter Examples: Internship Cover Letter

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

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

Creative Cover Letter Examples

10. the brutally honest cover letter.

Then, there are the occasions when your future boss might appreciate honesty — in its purest form. Livestream CEO Jesse Hertzberg, by his own admission, is one of those people, which might be why he called this example “ the best cover letter ” (which he received while he was with Squarespace):

Brutally honest cover letter example

As Hertzberg says in the blog post elaborating on this excerpt — it’s not appropriate for every job or company. But if you happen to be sure that the corporate culture of this prospective employer gets a kick out of a complete lack of filter, then there’s a chance that the hiring manager might appreciate your candor.

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

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

11. The Pivot Cover Letter

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

Cover Letter Example: Creative Pivot Cover Letter

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

This cover letter strikes the perfect balance between creativity and simplicity in design while putting the applicant's career change into context. The copy is clean, with a creative font choice that isn’t distracting from the content, but still demonstrates the applicant’s knack for design.

12. The Graphic Design Cover Letter

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

Cover Letter Examples: Grpahic Design

It’s got so much going for it:

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

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

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

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search. But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data we’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.

We certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will. That’s why it’s important not to copy these examples . That defeats the purpose of personalization.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

Professional Cover Letter Templates

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

The 12 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

15 Cover Letter Templates to Perfect Your Next Job Application

The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Cover Letter

The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Cover Letter

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

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

How to Write a Letter of Interest in 2021 [Examples + Template]

How to Write a Letter of Interest in 2021 [Examples + Template]

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship [Examples & Template]

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship [Examples & Template]

Eight Cover Letter Greetings for Every Situation

Eight Cover Letter Greetings for Every Situation

7 Expert Cover Letter Tips to Get the Job

7 Expert Cover Letter Tips to Get the Job

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

21+ Cover Letter Examples in 2023 [For All Professions]

Background Image

No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must . 

Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.

Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done. 

You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates. 

And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.

Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples 

#1. career change cover letter example .

cover letter example for career change

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

Want to learn how to write a career change resume that’s on par with your cover letter? Check out our guide!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example 

cover letter example for a recent graduate

Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish! 

job search masterclasss novoresume

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Middle Management

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for business manager

Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample. 

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for phd

Here’s what this cover letter does right: 

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for senior executive

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example 

Cover Letter Example

Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example 

cover letter examples

Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume . 

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example 

best cover letter example

For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Digital Marketing

Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example 

Cover Letter Example for Graphic Designer

Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Administrative Assistant

Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Front Desk

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Human Resources

This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example 

Cover Letter Example  for Sales Agent

Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Receptionist

Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Information Technology

Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Real Estate Agent

This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Teacher

Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Project Manager

This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Paralegal

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

What is a Cover Letter? 

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume . 

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).

So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day. 

Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough. 

Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

cover letter structure

9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."

#1. Pick the right template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?

You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!

cover letter examples templates

#2. Add your contact details on the header

The best way to start your cover letter is through a header. 

Here’s what you want to include there:

Optionally, you can also include the following:

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter. 

A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.

So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?

One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.

If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking something like this: 

Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates. 

What you want to do, instead, is start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position. 

For example:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.

The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.

Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?

#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job

One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job. 

A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+. As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit

The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.

After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary . 

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:

Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter! 

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:

#8. Write a formal closing

Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.

Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions in a cover letter:

#9. Proofread your cover letter

Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included. 

The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos! 

For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article ! 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:

1. How do I write a simple cover letter? 

To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action). 

2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter? 

The three parts of a cover letter are: 

3. What makes a great cover letter?

A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”

To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.

Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by. 

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .

Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.

And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.

If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles: 

cookies image

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

You control your data

We use cookies to tailor the experience of creating resumes and cover letters. For these reasons, we may share your usage data with third parties. You can find more information about how we use cookies on our Cookies Policy . If you would like to set your cookies preferences, click the Settings button below. To accept all cookies, click Accept.

Cookie settings

Click on the types of cookies below to learn more about them and customize your experience on our Site. You may freely give, refuse or withdraw your consent. Keep in mind that disabling cookies may affect your experience on the Site. For more information, please visit our Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy .

Choose type of cookies to accept

These cookies allow us to analyze our performance to offer you a better experience of creating resumes and cover letters. Analytics related cookies used on our Site are not used by Us for the purpose of identifying who you are or to send you targeted advertising. For example, we may use cookies/tracking technologies for analytics related purposes to determine the number of visitors to our Site, identify how visitors move around the Site and, in particular, which pages they visit. This allows us to improve our Site and our services.

These cookies give you access to a customized experience of our products. Personalization cookies are also used to deliver content, including ads, relevant to your interests on our Site and third-party sites based on how you interact with our advertisements or content as well as track the content you access (including video viewing). We may also collect password information from you when you log in, as well as computer and/or connection information. During some visits, we may use software tools to measure and collect session information, including page response times, download errors, time spent on certain pages and page interaction information.

These cookies are placed by third-party companies to deliver targeted content based on relevant topics that are of interest to you. And allow you to better interact with social media platforms such as Facebook.

These cookies are essential for the Site's performance and for you to be able to use its features. For example, essential cookies include: cookies dropped to provide the service, maintain your account, provide builder access, payment pages, create IDs for your documents and store your consents.

To see a detailed list of cookies, click here .

This site uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. To learn more visit our Privacy Policy

Professional Cover Letter Examples to Apply for a Job in 2023

Below you'll see cover letters for 100+ professions grouped by industry. Scroll down and you'll get a breakdown of a perfect sample and suggestions for cover letter designs.

Cover Letter Examples

Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from 18 professional cover letter templates that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

Zety Cover Letter Example

Sample cover letter for a resume made with our builder—See more templates and create your cover letter here .

One of our users, Nikos, had this to say:

[I used] a nice template I found on Zety. My resume is now one page long, not three . With the same stuff.

Categories:

Professional Cover Letter Builder

Zety’s cover letter builder makes writing easy for you and less time-consuming, Use our beautiful, customizable templates recommended by HR pros to wow every recruiter.

Accounting & Finance Cover Letter Examples

Have a gig in finance or accounting? Want to move up the ladder? See our sample cover letters to get you there.

Creative & Cultural Fields Cover Letter Examples

No need to bury your creative side when choosing the right cover letter template, we’ve got you covered.

Construction Cover Letter Examples

You need the right blueprint to craft your own cover letter. With our sample cover letters, you'll have the building block to finish yours quickly.

Education & Learning Cover Letter Examples

Think of our sample cover letters as an open book take-home test—just fill in the blanks with the right answers.

Engineering & Scientific Cover Letter Examples

Our cover letters have been tested in the field and the results come up positive. Replicate your own with our guides!

Food Service Cover Letter Examples

To have the crème de la crème of cover letters for the food service industry, use our guides as the perfect recipe to get you there.

Government and NGOs Cover Letter Examples

Make your cover letter as presidential as they come with our expert guidance for governmental or NGO jobs.

Hospitality Travel & Transportation Cover Letter Examples

Don’t take the hard road when crafting your cover letter—use our transportation and hospitality industry sample cover letters to get your profile revved up.

Information Technology (IT) Cover Letter Examples

You code Java in your sleep but come up on the zero binary end when writing a cover letter. Use our examples line by line and you’ll be done in no time.

Legal Cover Letter Examples

You need a legal cover letter that won’t result in a hung (recruiter) jury. Use our sample cover letters to get a unanimous victory.

Law Enforcement & Emergency Services Cover Letter Examples

Give the Chief probable cause to read your resume. A professional law enforcement and emergency services cover letter will show them why you're the best choice.

Management & Leadership Cover Letter Examples

You know how to lead and use expert advice in the best way—follow our cover letter guides for management and leadership for 100% success.

Media and Entertainment Cover Letter Examples

Whether you craft compelling copy, take two on television, or report rumors and revelations, you know how to send a message. Show you're the best fit for the job with inspiration from our media examples of a cover letter.

Medicine Healthcare & Wellbeing Cover Letter Examples

The small details are what matters in this field—the same applies to making your healthcare cover letter better than all others.

Manufacturing & Warehousing Cover Letter Examples

Prove you've got the right skills in stock using our expedited cover letter examples for warehousing and manufacturing.

Office & Administrative Cover Letter Examples

Any organization without you is like a car with no engine. These example cover letters will help you make it clear to employers you are that missing part.—show them how with a great office & administrative cover letter.

Retail & Customer Service Cover Letter Examples

You promise what you can deliver to your customers — we do the same with our job-winning customer service cover letter templates.

Sales & Marketing Cover Letter Examples

You know sales isn't about manipulating—it's about offering a solution to a problem. Our sample cover letter for sales jobs do just that.

Other Cover Letter Examples

Need a cover letter sample for different scenarios you find yourself in at this stage of your career? Check out the relevant cover letter templates you need here.

Examples of Cover Letter Templates

Dear Mr. Portis,

When I found the opening for the Account position with Kaiser Permanente, I felt as if it was addressed to me. In my current position as Junior Accountant at the Pasadena Unified School District, I’ve managed a monthly bank reconciliation of over $400,000. I’m sure I can use my expertise at Kaiser Permanente.

In my current position as a Junior Accountant with the Pasadena Unified School District, my key challenge has been planning an annual budget and updating monthly forecasts. Here are some of my recent results:

I know that Kaiser Permanente’s current plans involve moving to in-house accounting. It would be an exciting opportunity for me to use my skills to develop this project.

Can we schedule a meeting to discuss my solutions for helping Kaiser Permanente have proper in-house accounting?

Dieter Bender

General cover letter example

General Cover Letter

A good cover letter is a personalized cover letter. Getting everything right takes time…and you need to submit your application right this second . Use this sample to create unique cover letters fast and easy—no matter if you need two or 20 versions.

Dear Mr. Scotten,

I'm so excited to apply for the IT Project Manager position at Weniger Aerospace.

At A/G Systems, I saved 10 meeting hours a week for 20 engineers. I did it by automating our program requirements management with Oracle Primavera. At $90 an hour, that’s $864,000 saved per year. I'm proud of that—not least because my title wasn't "IT PMP" but "Program Administrator." Transitioning to 100% IT PMP at Weniger would use my IT skills and passion to the full.

I know you're looking for an IT PMP with 5+ years of experience. I've spent 6 years creating robust IT systems with these achievements in the skill areas in your ad:

I'm very interested in sharing how I can deliver IT PMP excellence at Weniger Aerospace. Can we schedule a call?

Best Regards,

Samantha Sunstein

PS—I'm also happy to explain how I used Oracle Primavera to automate project tracking, eliminating 120+ work-hours per year.

Cover letter example for career change

Career Change Cover Letter

Most people don’t do the same job for years, but career changers get the double-take. This sample letter will show you how to prove you have what it takes to start a new career. Convince the employer you’re the perfect candidate with help from this example.

Dear Larissa,

I was so excited when my protein shake packaging design was shortlisted for an Adobe Design Achievement Award.

It was no accident. Design has been a passion of mine since I was ten. I treated the coursework for my B.A. in Design at UMass Boston as a jumping-off point. My classes lit the way, but I dug in deeper with:

When Dr. Stanhope suggested I apply for this internship, his reasoning was flawless. Paralith’s commitment to developing its interns far beyond mere clock-punching speaks directly to my voracious appetite for continued growth.

I would love to put my passion and skill to work for you. Can we schedule a call to discuss winning awards and accolades for Paralith?

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

Best regards,

Giovanna Darcy

Cover letter example for internship

Internship Cover Letter

Landing an internship is tough. Landing a placement that opens you up to great opportunities is even harder. This sample will show you how to make the most of you skills, education, and attitude to win top companies over.

Dear Mr. Bartz,

My name is Jean West, a junior at Greenville High Academy interested in becoming a public administrator in local government. I was thrilled to come across an opening for a Front Desk Clerk with the Greenville City Council. As the High School President and Model UN participant, I am a highly driven high school student who would help Greenville City Council’s administrative challenges.

I know the main duties for this position will be to maintain a professional relationship with visitors and answering multi-line phones and transferring calls to staff members. As the Student Body President, I’ve had to maintain a professional relationship with both students and staff, while being a representative for certain student body issues. We were able to introduce several new amendments to the student handbook and showed care and compassion to all students attending Greenville High Academy.

I am applying to the Greenville City Council specifically as a way to become more involved in local politics and further my professional growth in the field. This is why I’m so excited about this opening. I’d love the opportunity to be involved in local politics in a more fundamental way.

Can we schedule a call next week to discuss this position further?

Cover letter example for student

Student Cover Letter

Your job search is a catch-22: you want to work, but haven’t done enough work to get hired. These cover letter examples will help you escape this vicious circle. Be yourself, we’ll just help you bring out the best in you and give the employers the best candidate: you .

Dear Ms Danz,

It would realize a long-term dream of mine to fill the open digital marketing specialist position here at XYZ Foods. When I first got my job in customer service here, it was because your team member Arnold Dickey advised me to take any job at the company, exceed expectations, build marketing skills, then apply for a transfer to marketing. After just two months I was promoted to senior customer service agent for quick thinking and a strong work ethic. (I saved the company $2,000 a month with one suggestion.)

I read the job posting carefully and spoke with several of your team members. I know the position calls for product knowledge, written and verbal communication, and a strong sense of who our customers are. I believe I’m the perfect fit. I’ve passed quarterly product knowledge quizzes with the highest scores in my department. I’ve used strong communication skills to achieve 95% positive customer survey scores and write up daily error-free reports. My department record of 75+ calls handled per day gives me an excellent understanding of our target demographic.

The most compelling part of this position to me is that it’s the perfect fit. I’ve dreamed of working as a digital marketing specialist at XYZ for the past seven years, taking fifteen online classes from Wharton and doing 20 freelance projects on nights and weekends.

My supervisor here at XYZ customer service is happy to let me meet with you any weekday. Can we set up a time to chat about how I can exceed your expectations as I’ve exceeded hers?

Sincerely, Susan Morris

Cover letter example for internal position

Internal Position Cover Letter

A new position opened up in your company. You know you’re the best match, but you’re worried you’ll get overlooked. There’s competition, it’s not clear who gets promoted or transitioned. These cover letter samples will show you how to get the credit you’re due.

Dear Frances,

Presently, I’m the retail operations assistant manager for Reston Raiment, but I just today saw your advertisement for a manager at Willis Wearables and I’m excited to put forth my application. I’ve been a semi-frequent customer of WW over the years, and I’ve always adored the quality of your products and the helpfulness of the staff.

During my managerial career, I’ve acquired many skills and much supervisory knowledge. These abilities, coupled with my 5+ years of management experience, make me a strong contender for this position, I believe. On top of those mentioned things, I’m also honored to have achieved some important small successes, including:

These are but a few examples, but I hope they help to show you my management experience, a love for the job, passion, and dedication. I’m eager for the opportunity to bring these characteristics over to a store I’ve always admired.

If you’d give me the chance, I’d love to show you how I can build upon your current success and take Willis Wearables to the next level.

Karen D. Valenzuela

P.S.—What would you say to having a coffee together? I know a great cafe near your store, and I’d be happy for the chance to discuss how I can bring an increase in sales (30%) to WW this upcoming holiday season.

Cover letter example for manager

Manager Cover Letter

What makes this sample cover letter great? Quantifies and shows a good fit:

Dear Jacqueline,

As a longtime fan of Acme’s company culture and products, I was excited to see the opening for an administrative assistant. With my lengthy experience as an administrative assistant with Fancy Malls, I know I can use my skill set and knowledge to become a valuable member of the Acme team.

In my current position with Fancy Malls, I’ve had many responsibilities and achievements that would serve me well in a role at Acme. Fancy Malls has a similar business structure and product lineup to those at Acme, so I believe I would make a smooth and quick transition. On top of that, my invoice management and directory maintenance were leading performance boosters for the company, and I’m sure that I could achieve similar results at Acme, such as:

Obtaining the administrative assistant position at Acme would be my dream come true. I’ve long been a fan and personal user of several of your products. In fact, Acme’s unique company culture is what prompted me to seek more challenging work. Though I love being in charge of a company’s multifaceted office support, there is no other office that would make me as happy to work for. I know, should I be honored with the position, that I’d be the envy of my circle of friends!

I would eagerly welcome the opportunity to discuss your current administrative objectives and show you how my successes at Fancy Malls can translate into growth for Acme.

P.S. - I’d love the opportunity to sit down with you and go over how I can bring similar results to the 10% cost savings I achieved at Fancy Malls to the Acme office, as well.

Cover letter example for administrative assistant

Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

What makes this sample cover letter stand out? Shows skills like a Swiss Army knife:

Perfect Cover Letter Sample

Example of a cover letter with an explanation

Frequently Asked Questions about Cover Letter Examples

What is a cover letter.

A cover letter is a document attached to a resume in your application that demonstrates your qualifications, achievements, and motivation to join your potential employer. It complements your resume by providing more details about your professional background so far . Remember that your cover letter design should match your resume . See our professional cover letter templates and resume templates that match perfectly together to help you climb the career ladder. If you opted for a CV instead, do not hesitate to check out our professional CV templates that will also go well with our cover letters. Interested in the topic? Read more about differences between a CV and a resume .

How to write a cover letter for 2023?

A good cover letter should include the following parts:

There are a few more tricks that you can use in your cover letter to garner additional attention for your candidacy. To find out more, read: what to include in a cover letter .

Do I need a professional template to write my cover letter?

They say you get only one chance to make a first impression, so the answer is yes. Recruiters go through hundreds of applications, so a well-formatted and a professional-looking cover letter will definitely help you stand out from other candidates. See our modern cover letter templates to make sure your cover letter strikes a chord with your recruiter.

Are cover letters really necessary?

Even though it is widely believed that recruiters do not read cover letters, in most cases you do need a cover letter . A well-written cover letter sets the tone for your resume, as it allows you to point out your professional experience and special skills in more detail. It also shows your motivation to take the job. So don’t hesitate to write one, even if it’s not required by the job ad.

How long should a cover letter be?

Your cover letter should ideally be one-page long, and preferably prepared in a professional template that will help you take your cover letter layout to the next level. A good cover letter should include 3–4 short paragraphs and no more than 400 words in total. Remember that recruiters prefer brief and easy-to-read content, so do not overwhelm them with too many irrelevant details. We encourage you to read more on the ideal cover letter length in 2023 .

How to format a cover letter?

When you write a cover letter, remember about the following rules for formatting:

We also advise you to take a deeper look at how to format your cover letter .

What do you write in a cover letter if you have no experience?

Writing a cover letter when you have little job experience and hard skills may seem like an impossible task, but don’t let that discourage you. Since there are no past jobs you could discuss in your document, try to focus on bringing out the best of your soft skills and show your passion for learning . List all experiences gathered in extracurricular activities, additional courses, or through volunteering . Before you start writing your entry-level cover letter , it is advisable to prepare your resume for your first job .

Should you write a different cover letter for each job application?

You should always customize your cover letter for each company you’re applying to, as it significantly increases your chances of landing a job interview. To make your cover letter job-specific, review the job ad carefully , identify the most important things the company is looking for in the perfect candidate, and use that information to draft a compelling cover letter. Read more on what a cover letter should say and remember that with our cover letter builder your perfect cover letter is just a few clicks away!

Should my cover letter be downloaded in Word or PDF?

As it is recommended to send your resume in a PDF format , your cover letter should come in the same format as well. Thanks to this, your cover letter layout will look good on any device and any operating system that the recruiters might be using. Try Zety cover letter templates to see how quick and easy it might be to come up with a professional-looking PDF cover letter.

Does Zety offer any resume examples that I could look at?

If you don’t know where to start with writing your CV, we suggest that you look at our resume examples . Find an example matching your profession, tailor proposed content to your needs and add it to one of Zety’s resume templates . If you want to get more information about this, read our guide on how to write a resume .Don’t know if you should write a resume or a CV? Read about differences between a CV and a resume

Are Zety cover letter examples available for free?

Yes, you can access cover letter examples for 100+ professions grouped by industry on Zety for free. Now all you have to do is tailor content proposed by Zety to your own needs and use our cover letter builder to create a job-winning cover letter accompanying your perfect resume .

Try Zety's professional cover letter builder now

Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

Alison Doyle is one of the nation’s foremost career experts.

best sample application letter for job

What is an Application Letter?

What to include in your application letter, tips for writing a cover letter, cover letter sample and template, email cover letter sample.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Alex Dos Diaz / The Balance

What's the best way to write a letter to apply for a job? Your letter should detail your specific qualifications for the position and the skills you would bring to the employer. What’s most important is to show the employer that you’re a perfect match for the job.

Your job application letter is an opportunity to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experience. An effective cover letter will enhance your application, showcase your achievements, and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Review what to include in a job application letter, tips for writing a letter that will get your application notice, and examples of letters and email messages sent to apply for a job.

Key Takeaways

A   letter of application, also known as a  cover letter , is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information about your skills and experience to an employer. Your letter of application is intended to provide detailed information on why you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, what makes you a strong candidate, why they should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up.

Effective application letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify the most relevant skills that qualify you for the job.

Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, explain your qualifications for the job, why you should be selected for an interview, and how you will follow up.

Unless an employer specifically requests a job application letter sent by postal mail, today most cover letters are sent by email or attached as a file in an online application tracking system.

As with all cover letters, a job application letter is divided into sections:

Here’s how to ensure that your application supports your resume, highlights your most relevant qualifications, and impresses the hiring manager.

Get off to a direct start.  In your first paragraph, explain why you are writing. Mention the job title and company name, and where you found the job listing. While you can also briefly mention why you are a strong candidate, this section should be short and to the point.

Offer something different than what's in your resume. You can make your language a bit more personal than in your resume bullet points, and you can tell a narrative about your work experience and career.

Application letters typically accompany resumes, so your letter should showcase information that your resume doesn't.

Make a good case.  Your first goal with this letter is to progress to the next step: an interview. Your overarching goal, of course, is to get a job offer. Use your application letter to further both causes. Offer details about your experience and background that show why you are a good candidate. How have other jobs prepared you for the position? What would you bring to the position, and to the company? Use this space to  emphasize your strengths .

Close with all the important details.  Include a thank you at the end of your letter. You can also share your contact information and mention how you will follow up.

This is a sample cover letter.  Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for an email sample.

The Balance

John Donaldson 8 Sue Circle Smithtown, CA 08067 909-555-5555 john.donaldson@email.com

September 6, 2022

George Gilhooley LTC Company 87 Delaware Road Hatfield, CA 08065

Dear Mr. Gilhooley,

I am writing to apply for the programmer position advertised in the Times Union. As requested, I enclose my certification, resume, and references.

The role is very appealing to me, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education make me a highly competitive candidate for this position. My key strengths that would support my success in this position include:

With a BS degree in computer programming, I have a comprehensive understanding of the full lifecycle of software development projects. I also have experience in learning and applying new technologies as appropriate. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.

I can be reached anytime via email at john.donaldson@email.com or by phone at 909-555-5555.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.

Signature  (hard copy letter)

John Donaldson

The following is a sample email cover letter to send as part of a job application.

Email Application Letter Example

Subject: Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

I'm writing to express my interest in the Web Content Manager position listed on Monster.com. I have experience building large, consumer-focused, health-based content sites. While much of my experience has been in the business world, I understand the social value of this sector, and I am confident that my business experience will be an asset to your organization.

My responsibilities have included the development and management of website editorial voice and style, editorial calendars, and the daily content programming and production for various websites.

I have worked closely with health care professionals and medical editors to provide the best possible information to a consumer audience of patients. I have also helped physicians to use their medical content to write user-friendly and easily comprehensible text.

Experience has taught me how to build strong relationships with all departments in an organization. I have the ability to work within a team, as well as cross-team. I can work with web engineers to resolve technical issues and implement technical enhancements. 

I am confident working with development departments to implement design and functional enhancements, monitor site statistics, and conduct search engine optimization.

Thank you for your consideration.

Colleen Warren colleen.warren@email.com 555-123-1234 www.linked.com/colleenwarren

How to Send an Email Application Letter

If sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title you are applying for in the  subject line  of the email:

Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Include your contact information in your email signature but don't list the employer's contact information.

Do you have to write a cover letter when you apply for a job?

Some employers require cover letters. If they do, it will be mentioned in the job posting. Otherwise, it’s optional but it can help your chances of securing an interview. A cover letter gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer, showcase your qualifications, and explain why you are a perfect candidate for the job.

How can you use a cover letter to show you’re a qualified candidate?

One of the easiest ways to show an employer how you’re qualified for a job is to make a list of the requirements listed in the job posting and match them to your resume. Mention your most relevant qualifications in your cover letter, so the hiring manager can see, at a glance, that you have the credentials they are looking for.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter ?"

CareerOneStop. “ Effective Cover Letters .”

By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.

Resume Genius

The World's Smartest Resume Builder

Home Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter Examples for All Job Applications in 2023

Conrad Benz

Paired with your resume, a well-written cover letter will help you land the job you want. We have nearly 200 cover letter examples by type and industry to help you make your cover letter persuasive.

five cover letter examples stacked on top of each other — internal position, career change, relocation, entry-level, and professional cover letter samples together

The best way to start writing a cover letter for a job in 2023 is to check out examples of good cover letters.

Our extensive list of cover letter samples is perfect for all job seekers, whether you need to write one for a specific life situation (like a career change) or you’re looking for the best cover letter format to use in your industry.

Table of Contents

Cover Letter Examples by Industry

What should a great cover letter say.

Not sure what a cover letter is or what it should include? A killer cover letter is made of the following four parts:

The cover letter template below describes how to write each of these key sections:

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

Opening Paragraph (Introduction)

Your cover letter opening should contain a self introduction. Write about who you are, where your expertise lies, where you found the job posting, and why you want to apply for the job.

Body Paragraphs

The second paragraph of your cover letter should respond directly to the job description written by the hiring manager. Describe how your previous job experiences, skills, and abilities will help you meet the company’s needs. To make that easier, you should include exact words and phrases from the job descriptions in your cover letter.

Do some research about the company and find out what their current activities and goals are. Explain how you can help them achieve those goals.

Closing Paragraph

Your cover letter closing is the call-to-action portion of your cover letter. Inform the hiring manager that you’d love to go in for an interview. Provide your email address or other contact information and tell them that you’ll reach out in a week if you don’t hear back. Thank them for spending their time reading your cover letter.

1. Entry-Level Cover Letter Example

This entry-level cover letter was written by a recent graduate who only has a little part-time work experience.

In our example, the candidate is applying for an entry-level IT technician position. She quickly establishes her enthusiasm about the opportunity, and then highlights her relevant skills to show she can do the job:

The cover letter example

Want a closer look at this cover letter example? Here’s a text version that you can scan through:

Entry-level cover letter example (text version)

Dear Mr. Jacobson,

As a long-term admirer of the work done by the team at Mayflower Technologies, I’m delighted to submit my application for the entry-level IT technician position posted on Indeed.com. As a recent graduate from the University of Rochester with a B.S. in Computer Science, I’m confident that my knowledge of Linux systems, experience in backend coding, and precise attention to detail would make me an asset to the team at Mayflower.

In my former role as a student worker at the University of Rochester’s Technical Services department, I was responsible for troubleshooting a variety of technical issues for staff, assisting with server maintenance, and installing a wide range of equipment. While employed there, I assisted in the development and rollout of new department practices, and helped improve our ticket response time by 12%. I’m sure that this experience will help me pick up new skills and quickly excel as a technician at Mayflower.

I also understand that Mayflower is seeking to expand their cloud computing services. While at the University of Rochester, I specialized in and completed my thesis on cloud computing. The IT technician position at Mayflower would be an exciting opportunity for me to bring my educational background to the table, and learn more about a growing industry.

I’ve attached my resume, which further details my skills and educational background. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about my background. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you further; thank you for your time and consideration.

[Your Name]

What makes this a good cover letter

This entry-level cover letter sample stands out because the applicant emphasizes her enthusiasm about the opportunity from the very first sentence.

Beyond her enthusiasm, the candidate also shows she’s qualified . She quickly (and convincingly) markets her professional strengths , including relevant hard skills (Linux, backend coding) and soft skills (precision, attention to detail).

By the end of her cover letter, the candidate has even demonstrated that she’s researched the position, and is passionate about the work the company is doing. Overall, this is an effective way to make a positive impression as an entry-level job seeker because it shows the employer that you’re energetic and ready to learn.

2. Professional Cover Letter Example

Are you a senior-level professional or experienced manager trying to highlight your professionalism in a cover letter?

The restaurant manager cover letter example below will show you how to come off as a qualified veteran:

An example of a professional cover letter

Download This Free Example

Here’s a text version of this cover letter sample so you can go through line-by-line:

Professional cover letter example (text version)

I’m writing to apply for the Restaurant Manager opening at MOD Sequel. I have more than five years of experience managing restaurants and bars, and my professional expertise aligns closely with the responsibilities outlined in your job advertisement.

In my role as Restaurant Manager for Bar Louie, I proved to be an efficient, enthusiastic, and strong leader. My value quickly became apparent to Bar Louie’s shareholders after I single-handedly trained and prepared the entire waitstaff for opening night and beyond. Not only did our team meet sales goals each month for the first year, but the down payment for the property was even paid back after the first six months of operating.

MOD Sequel would benefit from my skills in the following areas:

• Eye for excellence and high level of standards • Strong work ethic and leadership skills • Positive attitude even under pressure

I believe MOD Sequel will be a great success for many years to come, and my extensive expertise will help ensure your establishment succeeds well into the future. My time spent in this industry has prepared me for such an opportunity, and I sincerely hope I can contribute soon as a member of your team.

It would be a privilege to discuss your Restaurant Manager position in more detail. I’m happy to come by whenever it’s most convenient for you. Thank you for your time, and I’m looking forward to hearing from you.

Why this is a good cover letter

Right from the start, this applicant showcases the managerial skills they developed while working in the service industry. They then highlight how they’ll apply those skills to make an immediate impact on the company.

Additionally, the applicant mentions the company by name three times. It’s clear that they’re familiar with the business, have an interest in joining this specific team, and understand how they’d fit on the team if hired.

Lastly, our applicant’s cover letter includes their address to highlight how close they live to the restaurant . Pointing out where you live can be helpful if you’re applying for a non-remote job because it shows the employer that you won’t need to move or even commute very far if hired.

3. General Cover Letter Example

This general cover letter was written by a candidate with two years of work experience.

In the example, the candidate is applying for a mid-level digital marketing position. In the first paragraph, the applicant:

An example of a general cover letter

Here’s a text version of this cover letter sample in case you want a closer look at each paragraph:

General cover letter example (text version)

Dear Ms. Doe,

I was excited to see your job listing for the Senior Digital Marketing position at Westward Strategies on Indeed.com. As a dynamic email marketing specialist with over two years of professional experience executing market research, analyzing consumer data, and running A/B tests to drive successful marketing campaigns, I’m confident that I would be a valuable asset to the team at Westward.

Your job listing mentions a need for someone who is experienced in email segmentation and campaign development, both of which are areas I have extensive experience in. I’m currently employed at Marketed Inc., where I’ve honed my skills by running numerous successful email marketing campaigns. While employed here, I’ve spearheaded a digital promotion campaign for the company’s new line of sandals that successfully raised our total online engagement by an impressive 13% over the course of six months, contributing substantially to the department’s annual goals.

I’m confident that my proven track record of excellent work ethic, unparalleled attention to detail, and high-performing email marketing campaigns will make me an immediate asset at Westward Strategies, and allow me to contribute to the team’s success.

I look forward to discussing the Senior Digital Marketing position and my qualifications with you in more detail. I’m available to talk at your convenience. I’ll be in touch next week to follow up and to make sure you’ve received my application.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Why this is a good example of a cover letter

In the cover letter example above, the candidate is concise and direct . She conveys much of what a cover letter should say in the opening paragraph, like her amount and type of experience, plus where she found the job.

Then the candidate lists specific responsibilities from the job description, and mentions her experience handling similar work. She even gives an example of how her efforts have benefited her current employer.

At this point, the candidate’s cover letter has already helped the hiring manager better understand her value as a hire. But she’s not done yet.

Finally, the candidate signs off by mentioning how she’ll reach out if she doesn’t hear back from the hiring manager. This call to action is a key part of a general cover letter, because it highlights the writer’s interest in the job, and willingness to go further than other candidates for the opportunity.

4. Creative Cover Letter Example

A creative cover letter makes you stand out by adding a bit of personality and flair to your application.

In our creative cover letter example, the candidate is applying for a senior-level social media manager position. By the second paragraph, she has the reader’s attention. Then, she establishes her qualifications:

An example of a creative cover letter

Take a more detailed look at this cover letter sample by reading through the plain text version:

Creative cover letter example (text version)

As a quick-thinking online native who’s obsessed (yes, obsessed) with the Scatterplot app, I was thrilled to see your listing for the Social Media Manager position at Scatterplot Entertainment Co.

With over three years of professional experience as an online brand manager under my belt, I’ve analyzed user metrics, run A/B tests, and spearheaded viral social media campaigns. You name it, I’ve clocked an embarrassing number of hours online working on it. I’m confident my adaptability, hands-on branding experience, and encyclopedic meme knowledge would make me a perfect fit for the team at Scatterplot.

Currently, in my role at DotMap as a Social Media Manager, I manage and execute highly successful online branding campaigns. I regularly produce viral content, getting several of our branded Tweets featured on major websites. In one such instance, I tweeted a thread of adorable corgis using the DotMap iOS app — receiving over 60 thousand interactions and earning a spot on Buzzfeed’s front page.

I’m fiercely competitive in my approach, up-to-date on all the latest trends, and can clean up even the messiest social media disasters. I’m positive my knack for creating clickable content will make me an immediate asset to the Social Media team at Scatterplot.

I look forward to discussing the Social Media Manager position and my qualifications with you in more detail. I’m available to talk at your soonest convenience, and I’ll be in touch next week to follow up, just to make sure you’ve received my application!

Warm regards,

First, the candidate doesn’t waste the reader’s time . She immediately states her interest in the position, relevant qualifications, and specific skills. Hiring managers are busy, so it’s crucial to be direct in both your cover letter and resume.

Next, she presents her information in a casual, fun tone . A personal touch in your cover letter helps you present yourself as a creative, enthusiastic job seeker. It also makes your application more memorable.

Finally, the candidate lists specific accomplishments from her previous job, and explains how these accomplishments are relevant to the position.

Elaborating on your professional achievements is essential to writing a great cover letter. Your achievements show the hiring manager what they will gain by hiring you, and emphasize your worth as a potential employee.

5. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Writing a cover letter for a job in your current industry is pretty straightforward. But writing a career change cover letter requires a slightly different approach.

The sample cover letter below includes the three elements you need to persuade a hiring manager you’re ready to transfer industries, such as:

An example of a cover letter for career change

Want a closer look at this cover letter example? Here’s a text version that you can read more carefully:

Career change cover letter example (text version)

Ever since I was a child, I’ve loved transforming people through the art of makeup. My proudest accomplishment was preparing my younger sister for her prom night — she was voted prom queen that evening. Because of my passion for this art form, I’m applying for the makeup artist position at Studio 96.

I’ve worked in several customer service positions since I graduated high school, through which I’ve honed my people skills and improved my ability to work effectively in high-pressure situations. In fact, in my current position at Zara I’ve increased sales by 17% this month.

However, I’ve found that customer service doesn’t satisfy my creative side. Thus, I’m eager to join Studio 96, a company I’ve been a fan of since I learned about the avant-garde approach to makeup application developed under your founder Bianca Del Vanjie.

To meet Studio 96’s needs, I’ve completed the 150-hour course in Makeup Artistry offered by the Los Angeles-based Sonique Academy in my spare time. I’ve also volunteered for the Look Good, Feel Better organization, where I boosted the self-esteem of cancer patients by giving them makeovers.

I am looking forward to hearing back from you. I can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email]. Thank you for considering my application.

The first reason this is a great cover letter example is that it’s sincere . The applicant is sincerely passionate about her target industry — she even provides a relatable story to emphasize this sincerity.

This cover letter is also great because it directly addresses the reason for the applicant’s career change . Letting the hiring manager know why you’re looking for employment in a different industry is necessary if you’re changing careers, because they’ll want to know why you’re making the change.

Finally, it’s clear the writer of this cover letter is committed to the new job . She’s even worked on her skill-set to prepare her for this change in professions.

6. Cover Letter for Promotion Example

Have you been with your current company for a while and want to take on more responsibility ? You’ll likely need to write an internal cover letter for promotion to convince your boss that you’re ready to move up the corporate ladder.

A cover letter for promotion differs from a regular cover letter in two ways:

In the following example, the candidate is writing to the marketing director of their company to apply for an open senior-level sales manager position:

A sample cover letter for an internal promotion

If you’re having trouble reading this cover letter sample, take a look at the text version below:

Cover letter for promotion example (text version)

Dear Mrs. Lasker,

As a loyal employee of Peabody, I’m excited to formally apply for the Sales Manager position in the Marketing Department. Since starting as a Sales Representative at Peabody four years ago, I quickly mastered the requisite skills for the role, and have helped our department regularly exceed sales goals.

From the beginning I’ve demonstrated an ability to learn quickly and exceed expectations. During my tenure, I’ve developed excellent sales skills, honed my interpersonal abilities, and subsequently helped my department generate a 6% increase in profits this quarter. Additionally, this year has given me the opportunity to sharpen my leadership skills — having successfully onboarded 4 new employees and assumed management over a small direct sales team.

I’ve read the requirements for the Sales Management position thoroughly, and I’m confident that the skills I’ve refined during my time working here paired with my passion for customers and making direct sales make me an ideal fit.

I appreciate your consideration and look forward to discussing this opportunity for promotion with you at your convenience. My supervisor is also happy to meet with you to elaborate on my performance in the Sales Department, and will attest to my qualifications. Please let me know if there’s any other information I can provide that would help with this process, and I’d be happy to provide it to you.

This candidate’s cover letter stands out because it’s direct and highlights specific accomplishments expected of a managerial-level employee.

In the introduction of this cover letter, the candidate emphasizes his loyalty to the company, and quickly moves on to talk about the contributions he’s made to his team.

Then, the candidate provides examples of his leadership and management experience to demonstrate that he’s ready to take on a more significant role.

By the end of this cover letter, this candidate has shown his boss that he’s not only made an impact in his current role, but is already exceeding expectations. More importantly, he has the skills needed to keep up with the demands of a more senior position.

Cover Letter Examples by Application Type

The following guides will show you how to write a variety of different cover letter formats and types:

Our robust collection of industry-specific cover letter examples is sure to have a cover letter for your unique situation. You can download all of these sample cover letters for free and customize them to fit your needs.

Click your industry below to find examples for different jobs:

Accounting & Finance

Administration & office support, business & management, business development, construction & maintenance, customer service & retail, customer service & retail, customer support & sales, digital art & production, education & human services, emergency services, engineering, finance & banking, fine arts & aesthetics, food service, healthcare & wellbeing, healthcare & wellbeing, human resources (hr), information technology (it), law & legal, life situation, maintenance, marketing & sales, personal & child care, public safety & security, resume: yes, science & research, spa & salon, transportation & travel, warehouse & logistics, web development & design, writing & media.

Once you’ve found a cover letter example for your target position, use a matching resume sample to help you write a resume and complete your job application.

Frequently asked questions about cover letters

Still have questions? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about cover letters:

What are 3 things you should include in a cover letter?

Three things you should include in a cover letter are:

Combined, these three elements make for a compelling cover letter that communicates why you’re the ideal person for the job.

How do you write a simple cover letter?

Here’s how to write a simple cover letter in six steps:

How important is a cover letter?

A cover letter is very important because it not only shows off your professional qualifications, it also gives you an opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the position and explain why you’re the ideal person for the job.

A well-written cover letter is often the difference between being offered an interview or being outright rejected for a job, so why not write one to improve your odds on the job hunt?

How do you build a cover letter?

There are three ways you build a cover letter:

The fastest (and easiest) way to build a cover letter is by using an online cover letter builder .

These tools use AI to automatically write a strong cover letter for you based on a few bits of information that you provide for the tool.

However, most cover letter generators aren’t free, so if you need to save money you may want to build a resume the old-fashioned way.

Writing your cover letter yourself is the highest effort and most time-consuming way to make your cover letter. However, it’s also free and you have complete control over the content.

If you’re applying for a job that requires writing skills, it’s a good idea to write your cover letter from scratch because it gives you an opportunity to highlight your writing abilities.

A simple cover letter template is a good starting point from which to make your cover letter. Most cover letter templates provide a general format that you can quickly fill in with your information, so you don’t need to use as much energy as you would writing your letter from scratch.

Using a template is a good way to make your cover letter if you’re unsure where to start and need some guidance. However, the end result is that your cover letter might come across as generic or awkward if you’re not careful, so it’s not always the best method.

Additional cover letter FAQs

Click to rate this article

Conrad Benz

Written by Conrad Benz

Conrad Benz is a Digital Media Specialist & Resume Expert at Resume Genius, where he helps countless job-seekers craft standout resumes and launch their careers. His... more

Related Articles

An illustration of a cover letter with statistics shown behind it

Cover Letter Statistics for 2023

January 12, 2023 | By   Rebecca Tay, Ph.D.

Image showing how to write a cover letter that impresses recruiters.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job

December 22, 2022 | By   Ida Pettersson

cover letter template hubpage hero image, animated man pointing at cover letter templates

September 18, 2022 | By   Pauline Delaney

Cover letter with a question mark on top of it, are cover letters necessary?

Are Cover Letters Necessary in 2023?

January 11, 2023 | By   Corissa Peterson

Hiring managers contemplate the best cover letters they've received for a job opening.

Best Cover Letter Examples of 2022 & Why They’re So Good

May 18, 2022 | By   Aaron Case, CPRW

How to write a cover letter with no experience

How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience

July 26, 2022 | By   Eva Chan, CPRW

Proper cover letter format set upon a wooden table with leaves

Cover Letter Format: How to Format Your Cover Letter in 2023

December 8, 2022 | By   Emily Crowley

short cover letter example hero image, sample of a cover letter that's under 100 words

5 Short Cover Letter Examples (+How to Write)

February 24, 2023 | By   Ida Pettersson

Resume Tools

Cover Letter Tools

Career Tools

© 2023, Sonaga Tech Limited. All rights reserved

ResumeGenius.com is owned and operated by Sonaga Tech Limited, Hamilton, Zweigniederlassung Luzern with offices in Luzern Switzerland.

LiveCareer

Best Cover Letter Examples for 2023

Our cover letter examples help with your job application because they show you what to include and how to convince employers you’re the right person for the job. We have 245+ samples from over 18 industries. Plus, we give advice and tips on how to use cover letters in various hiring situations.

brands image

Popular cover letter examples

Here are some of our most-viewed cover letter samples.

Don’t see your job title? Keep scrolling to search for the exact job title you need,and find hundreds more examples below!

Search cover letters by job title

Use this search bar to scan all the cover letters in our database and find one for the exact role to which you’re applying.

SEARCH BY JOB TITLE

Universal cover letter example

Every cover letter should include the same sections as the sample seen here, regardless of the job.

All cover letters should include these five sections:

Address/Salutation:

Salutation:

Introduction paragraph:

Body paragraph(s):

Closing paragraph:

Also known as a job application letter, our cover letter samples help you write a cover letter .

A cover letter example for your industry or job title shows exactly how the end result should look. Use them for inspiration as you write your own!

For even more help, use our Cover Letter Builder !

It’s a great tool that gives step-by-step guidance, features 30+ cover letter designs and provides industry-specific phrasing created by resume experts.

Our builder will eliminate the guesswork of writing a cover letter, and save you a lot of time!

Cover letter examples by industry and job title

Looking for a sample cover letter for a resume in your industry? Check out our examples listed by job title and organized by industry.

Accounting & Finance Cover Letter Examples

Study our accounting and finance cover letter samples for your job application to multiply your chance for success. See how other candidates describe their math skills, tax code knowledge and education to earn these roles.

Administrative Cover Letter Examples

A cover letter demonstrates your organization and communication skills before you step into the office. These administrative letter examples will help you get ready to write. Use our cover letter examples for the job you desire.

Business Cover Letter Examples

Here are good cover letter examples for business roles. They’ll help you see the selling points your job competition uses to frame their experience.

Construction Cover Letter Examples

We’ve got example cover letters that you can use as blueprints for your own solid introduction. Get inspired and learn how other job seekers are framing their skills in the construction field.

Customer Service Cover Letter Examples

Writing a cover letter is a breeze if you’ve got the patience and communication skills required for customer service roles. Just stick to the script! Write a great letter using our cover letter examples to guide you.

Education Cover Letter Examples

A good cover letter example can show you what you should say to get hired. Study our education cover letter examples below. They’ll help you brainstorm and craft a cover letter worthy of a gold star.

Fire Fighting Cover Letter Examples

Our firefighting example cover letters provide you with good ideas for how you can tell your own career story.

Healthcare Cover Letter Examples

Give your job search the booster shot it needs, a cover letter that demands attention. Our cover letter samples will help you write your own letter that will impress hiring managers and land you an interview.

Hotel & Hospitality Cover Letter Examples

Our cover letters are at your service! Check out our collection of hospitality cover letter samples below. They’re full of great ideas for describing your passion for hospitality, guest satisfaction and great service.

Human Resources Cover Letter Examples

HR is often responsible for hiring at many companies, so your cover letter should be top-notch. Review our cover letter samples for HR positions. See how others describe their skills in hiring, managing and developing talent within a company.

Information Technology Cover Letter Examples

Nearly every modern business needs technical support. Get insight into how others sell their tech skills. Take advantage of our great cover letter examples to help land the IT job you desire.

Janitorial Cover Letter Examples

Spruce up your cover letter to score a new job with our maintenance and janitorial example cover letters below. They’ll help you craft a letter that shows employers you’ll keep their workplaces up and running.

Marketing Cover Letter Examples

If your resume is your personal branding statement, your cover letter is the sales pitch to get hired. Hone your message for marketing and advertising positions by looking over cover letter example letters here.

Medical Cover Letter Examples

Our cover letter samples for medical professionals will show hiring managers you’ve got the necessary skills, schooling and work experience to succeed. We’ve got examples from every medical specialty.

Retail Cover Letter Examples

Earn a new job in retail with a stellar cover letter. See how our cover example letters for retail jobs demonstrate the full range of skills needed in the industry.

Sales Cover Letter Examples

Sell your future employer on hiring you with an excellent cover letter. Browse through our sales cover letter samples for one matching the role you want.

Safety & Security Cover Letter Examples

Secure a job by submitting a great cover letter. Check out some top-notch security cover letter samples to see how you can best sell your own experience to employers.

Transportation Cover Letter Examples

A cover letter is a vehicle to accelerate your job hunt. Take a look at our transportation application letter examples for ideas on how to impress hiring managers. They’ll help you arrive at your next job.

Cover letter examples for every scenario

Use the example letters below to find the right words or phrases to explain yourself in different professional scenarios.

When you are new to the workforce, a cover letter can help you fill in the work gaps of your resume by pointing out the skills, education and training you possess that make you an excellent fit for the role.

A cover letter is valuable if you have limited work or internship experience. It helps you draw a direct connection between the experience and education milestones you cite in your resume to the role to which you’re applying.

If you have an employment gap on your resume, a hiring manager will likely wonder why. In this case, a cover letter is perfect for explaining your situation. In the body of your cover letter, briefly mention why you stepped away from the workforce, such as because of a layoff, family emergency or to raise children. Keep it brief, though; the purpose of the cover letter is to focus on your credentials and what you bring to the table.

When you want to make a career change, your cover letter provides the space to explain your motivation and reasons for doing so. Remember, the letter should focus on what you’ll offer the employer, so keep your explanation for making the change brief. The bulk of your cover letter should highlight your relevant work experience and transferable skills .

A cover letter is critical when seeking a promotion or transfer with your current employer. This type of cover letter explains your motivation for applying for the promotion and why you believe you would excel in the new role.

If you have a connection who works at the company you’re applying to or is a colleague of the hiring manager, the first paragraph of your cover letter is where you should mention your connection. It will increase your chances of getting the job if someone with close knowledge told you about it.

If you’ve had your eye on a company you’d like to work for but haven’t seen any job openings, you can use your cover letter to explain that. Your introduction should explain what makes you passionate about working for this company. In addition, you should outline the skills and type of role you would like.

Have a lead on a great role that will open in the future? There’s no need to wait for it to be posted to the job board. View our sample letters of interest for a job you want, even if it hasn’t been posted yet. Learning to write this type of letter can set you apart from the competition.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. Its aim is to introduce yourself, outline your skills and experience, and explain why you would be the best fit for the role.

Cover letters shouldn’t be long, just a few paragraphs –– about 250 words or one double-spaced page.

They are a great way to convey your enthusiasm for the position or company and discuss what interests you about the role. Personalize your letter by directly addressing the hiring manager or recruiter.

What does a cover letter look like?

A cover letter looks like any other standard business letter: It consists of a recipient address, a greeting, two to three body paragraphs (the main text) and a signature. It’s three to four paragraphs long and should all fit on a single page.

While a cover letter will always consist of the same parts, you can change the appearance by changing details such as the font or adding a touch of color.

If you’re uncertain about what a cover letter looks like, it’s a good idea to use a cover letter template .

A template is just a preformatted document that takes care of the visual elements of your cover letter. That way, you can focus on the message of your cover letter instead of the design.

How important are cover letters when applying for jobs?

Cover letters are very important to apply for jobs. The only time that you shouldn’t include one is if the job post requests that you don’t or if the website you’re using to apply for a job does not allow you to attach one.

Even if it’s not requested, submitting a cover letter will help attract the attention of hiring managers. It’s a way to show that you have solid communication skills and expand on your resume’s key skills.

Since it’s more space to advertise yourself than a resume alone, it helps you better sell yourself. Cover letters are critical because you may be at a disadvantage for the job if you don’t take the time to include one, and other candidates do.

What are three good cover letter tips to remember?

Here are three helpful cover letter tips:

What should be in a well-written cover letter?

Our sample cover letters show you all the elements of a strong cover letter. At its most basic, a well-written cover letter is composed of five key sections:

Is it OK to have a two-page cover letter?

Cover letters should be focused and concise, so it’s not advised to go past one page. That’s the accepted standard practice for cover letters.

That’s because recruiters often get hundreds of applications for a single job opening and don’t have time to read long letters. That’s not to mention including a cover letter that is longer than other candidates’ may look sloppy and unprofessional.

How should I prepare my cover letter?

There are two ways to write a cover letter:

See more on our FAQ Page

Create a Cover Letter with LiveCareer

As seen in *

*The names and logos of the companies referred to in this page are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with LiveCareer.

best sample application letter for job

4 Cover Letter Examples That’ll Make Writing Yours Way Easier

Hot jobs on the muse.

person sitting in front of bookcase, looking at laptop and smiling

We love having examples. It’s so much easier to decorate a cake, build a model, or yes, even write a cover letter when you know what the end product could look like.

SEARCH OPEN JOBS ON THE MUSE! See who’s hiring here , and you can even filter your search by benefits, company size, remote opportunities, and more. Then, sign up for our newsletter and we’ll deliver advice on landing the job right to you.

So that’s what we’re going to give you—all the cover letter examples and tips you need to make yours shine (we’re unfortunately not experts in cake decorating or model building).

Want to get right down to business? Skip ahead to:

The traditional cover letter example

The impact cover letter example, the writing sample cover letter example, the career change cover letter example, bonus cover letter examples, the 3 basic elements of a cover letter, a few more cover letter tips, why bother with a cover letter at all.

I bet when you see a job listing that says “ cover letter optional ,” you breathe a sigh of relief, gleefully submit your resume, and move on. But you’re truly doing yourself a disservice by not including a cover letter (or by writing one that’s super generic or formulaic).

“When you’re writing a resume you’re oftentimes confined by space, by resume speak, by keywords—you’re up against a lot of technical requirements,” says Melody Godfred, a career coach and the founder of Write in Color who’s read thousands of cover letters over the course of her career. “In a cover letter you have an opportunity to craft a narrative that aligns you not only with the position you’re applying to but also the company you’re applying to.”

Whether you’re writing a cover letter for a data scientist or marketing manager position, an internship or a senior-level role, a startup or a Fortune 500 company, you’re going to want to tailor it to the role, company, and culture. A strong, customized cover letter will help you explain your value proposition and stand out from the stack of applicants. If there’s a gap in your resume , you have the opportunity to explain why it’s there. If you’re changing careers, you have the chance to describe why you’re making the switch. If your resume’s pretty dull, a cover letter helps you show some personality . And yes, cover letters still get read .

Does that sound a bit overwhelming? Don’t fret! We’ve got examples of four types of cover letters below: a traditional cover letter , an impact cover letter , a writing sample cover letter , and a career change cover letter . So let’s take a look at these examples, why they work, and how you can use them to craft your own.

A traditional cover letter is similar to what you’d come up with using a position-based cover letter template . It moves in reverse chronological order through your career history, highlighting parts of your past jobs that make you well suited for this position.

You might want to use this type of cover letter if:

The Job Description

Let’s say you’re applying to a paralegal job opening at a law firm. The job description might include:

Responsibilities

Requirements

The Cover Letter Example

Here’s an example of a traditional cover letter you could write for this role—keeping things strictly professional but without sounding too boring or jargon-y:

Dear Ms. Jessica Sanchez,

In my five-year career as a paralegal, I have honed my legal research and writing skills, and the attorneys I’ve worked with have complimented me on my command of case law and litigation support. Spiegel Law Firm’s 20 years in practice proves that the firm has strong values and excellent attorneys, and I’d be eager to join such a talented team.

I currently serve as a paralegal for Chandler, Chandler, and Greene, where I work closely with the partners on a number of high-priority cases. During my time here, I implemented a new calendar system that ensures timely filing of court papers. This system has prevented missed deadlines and allowed for better organization of internal and client meetings.

Previously, as a paralegal for the Neuerburg Law Firm, I received praise for my overall support of the legal team and my positive attitude. While working there, I came up with and implemented a plan for digitizing their old files while still ensuring security and privacy. This led to more efficiency when preparing for client meetings and legal proceedings.

My further qualifications include a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University, a paralegal certificate, and training in LexisNexis, Westlaw, and Microsoft Office Suite.

I would love the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your legal team. Thank you in advance for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Chase Broadstein [email protected] (222) 222-2222

Download this example

Why This Works

This cover letter is short, sweet, and to the point. It shows the candidate has a knack for getting things done in a thorough and timely matter and a track record for helping out wherever needed. The opening lines also express a genuine interest in this specific firm. Plus, there are some important keywords in there like “calendar system,” “bachelor’s degree,” “paralegal certificate,” and “LexisNexis.”

The impact cover letter puts your accomplishments front and center rather than organizing your paragraphs by past roles. You might use a cover letter like this if:

Let’s say you’ve come across an opening for an email marketing manager . Part of the job description states:

Here’s an example of an impact cover letter where the writer’s hard skills and successes stand out:

Dear Russ Roman,

I have a problem. See, my inbox currently (and embarrassingly) hosts 1,500 unread emails—including newsletters from at least 50 different brands.

But this problem only fuels my passion for creating emails that are worth opening. Because from my perspective, as someone who can barely get through their own stack of mail, that’s a true win.

I’ve been following Vitabe for years, and can proudly say that I open every single email you send to me. I’m a sucker for a good subject line—“Take a Vitamin-ute—We’ll A-B-C You Soon” being my favorite—and the way your email content feels both fun and expert-backed really speaks to me. This is why I’m thrilled to submit my application for a role as email marketing manager at your company.

I have over four years of experience working in the email marketing space. In my current role at Westside Bank, I was able to implement new email campaigns centered around reengaging churned clients. By analyzing data around the types of clients who churn and the engagement of our current email subscribers, as well as A/B testing headlines and newsletter layouts, we were able to increase email subscribers by 15% and convert 30% of those subscribers to purchase our product, a significant increase from the previous year. I also launched a “Your Credit Matters” newsletter focused on educating our clients on how they spend and manage their credit—which became our highest performing campaign in terms of open-rates and click-through to date.

Previously, as a member of the marketing team at Dream Diary Mattresses, I collaborated with the sales and product team to understand how I could best support them in hitting their quarterly goals. One specific project involving creating personalized emails for customers drew more people to come back to our site after 30 days than direct paid ad campaigns, leading to a 112% increase in revenue from the last quarter.

I take the content I write and the calendars I manage seriously, editing and refining beyond detail-oriented and into meticulous territory, and I feel my experience and drive would greatly help Vitabe further develop their email program for success.

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

Lad Miller [email protected] (987) 654-3210

This sample cover letter concisely highlights the applicant’s most significant, relevant achievements. By adding context to how their projects were created, monitored, and completed, they’re able to show just how results-driven they are and how they’ve successfully leveraged some of the skills the company is looking for.

One thing worth noting: This person didn’t include keywords such as Constant Contact, Google Analytics, HTML, CSS, Photoshop, or Microsoft Excel—all of which are listed in the job description. But those skills are most likely in their resume already, and leaving them out gives them the space to discuss specific projects and tell a story not visible on other parts of their application.

For roles where written communication is key, such as PR, copywriting , or journalism jobs, your cover letter will likely be the first writing sample your future employer sees. So it’s just as important to show your skill set in action through eloquent writing.

Here’s part of a job description for a staff writer position:

Have fun with this one, but triple-check for spelling and grammar mistakes, and make sure you’re showing off your best writing:

Dear Tai Chen,

Since I could walk, I’ve been dancing. And since I could read, I’ve been glued to Arabesque Weekly . At one point, you featured one of my local heroes—a ballerina who struggled with an injury early in her career and went on to become a principal dancer at Pacific Northwest Ballet—and I plastered the article above my childhood bed. It’s still there today.

That article—and so many others you’ve published—taught me that dancing was about more than just pirouettes and arabesques and that the right kind of writer can shed light on aspects of the art that make it surprising, impactful, and universal. I can be that writer.

As an editorial assistant at TheImprovGroup.com for the past two and a half years, my main responsibility was to get all of our content ready to go live on the site. This included fact-checking, proofreading, adding in HTML where necessary, and finding photos, videos, and GIFs that would complement the content and optimize audience engagement. As I tinkered with each post, I became intimately familiar with our internal CMS. Reviewing every single article we published and following reactions and engagement helped me gain a deep understanding of what makes a piece really land with our audience.

But by far my favorite aspect of this role has been writing. Each week, I pitch and write at least one article, from 250-word news items to 900-word advice pieces to even longer profiles, features, and personal essays. I love the challenge of developing pitches that align with the trends we see in the data, reflect with the company’s brand and mission, and allow me to flex my creative muscles.

Collaborating with my team to form the best content library we can has been a dream come true. I would be so excited to use my experience to help Arabesque Weekly achieve its goals. And I hope to one day write a story that another little dance lover tapes to their wall forever.

It would be an honor to be a part of your editorial team, and I look forward to the possibility of discussing the opportunity with you.

Hoping to be your next staff writer,

Marlee Wood [email protected] (555) 666-4433

This candidate is clearly passionate about this specific publication and leads with a unique personal anecdote tied to the company’s mission that demonstrates their ability to tell stories in a compelling way. There are relevant keywords and phrases, sure, but they’re not just thrown in there. Their voice comes through in every sentence, proving this person knows how to communicate effectively and creatively.

Cover letters can play a big part in helping career changers prove their qualifications—especially when it’s unclear how their skills transfer over to this new field.

You might write a career change cover letter if:

Let’s say you’re someone who has experience supporting a sales team as an administrative assistant , and you’re now looking to become a sales representative. You come across a job posting that includes:

Here’s how you might translate your past experience over to this new (and exciting) prospect:

Dear Maria Russo,

The head of sales at Sunshine Inc. was in a bind. She needed six client meetings scheduled, 18 service transactions processed, and a summary of the team’s new lead generation campaign drafted before getting on a flight to Austin—in three hours. So she turned to her cool-headed, sales-savvy administrative assistant for help. That assistant was me. Not only did I execute everything on her to-do list, I did it all before her plane left the ground.

For three years, I worked in lockstep with a busy, growth-oriented sales leader to support the business development team. As the sole administrative assistant in the department, I balanced a swath of competing priorities, ranging from coordinating meetings and inputting data to contacting customers, finalizing transactions, and creating promotional materials. This role helped me develop a comprehensive understanding of the sales cycle, sales strategy, and pipeline growth.

Like many others, my career path hasn’t been entirely straightforward. After leaving Crabapple Media, I enrolled in a local coding bootcamp. Six months later, I emerged with a certificate in computer programming and a certainty that I did not want to be a coder. But education is never wasted. I’m now an aspiring sales representative with experience supporting a thriving sales team and extensive knowledge of the tech space.

Here’s a little bit more about how my experience would translate into this role:

I would, of course, love to schedule a time for us to discuss this role and my experience, and I truly want to thank you for considering me.

All the best, Olu Abiola [email protected] (123) 456-789

The opener draws you in and makes you want to learn more. It toots the person’s horn, but in a way that’s substantiated. Then, the next couple sections explain their experience in the sales space and other relevant qualifications, before eventually tying that back to why they’re applying to this specific job. Similar to the impact cover letter, the author lists some of the more important qualities they bring to the table, doing a bit of keyword inclusion and resume gap explaining along the way.

To further guide you, check out some more cover letter examples:

Let’s break down one of our example cover letters real quick

Check out this handy infographic that breaks down our impact cover letter.

infographic of impact cover letter example pointing out different elements of cover letter

Cover letters are a little like puzzles. When you put each component in its proper place (and remove any parts that don’t fit), you create a complete picture. But even though that picture is always different (as you saw above) a lot of the types of pieces are the same.

In other words, every great cover letter includes the following elements:

1. An Engaging Opener

By opener, we primarily mean your first paragraph: How you start a cover letter is everything. Your opening lines influence whether someone keeps reading—and you want them to, right?

“Starting with something that immediately connects you to the company is essential—something that tells the company that this is not a generic cover letter,” Godfred says. “You have to say something that tells the employer, ‘I wrote this just for you.’”

It can be a childhood memory tying you back to the company’s mission. It can be a story about the time you fell in love with the company’s product. It can be an anecdote from another job or experience showing how hard of a worker you are. Whatever you decide to open with, make it memorable.

2. A Clear Pitch

Use the next few paragraphs of your cover letter to “hit them with the strongest results you have that are aligned with the opportunity,” Godfred says. Ryan Kahn —Muse career coach and founder of The Hired Group —calls this your pitch. In other words, the part where you’re “selling yourself for the position and why you’re qualified for it.” Additionally, Godfred says, “If you’re someone who’s transitioning careers, and you need to explain that transition, you do it there.”

This section should have a balance of soft and hard skills , Godfred says. Talk about your experience using Salesforce or doing SEO work, but also highlight your ability to lead teams and communicate effectively. “Companies are embracing authenticity, they’re embracing humanity, they’re looking for people who are going to fit their culture. So what are your values? What do you stand for?” says Godfred. These values should be as much a part of your cover letter as the super specialized hard skills.

3. A Great Closing Line

Your closing line could include your next steps, Kahn says, such as “I welcome the opportunity to speak with you more about how I can contribute to [team],” or, “I would love to schedule a time for us to discuss this role and my experience.” But more importantly, “You want to make sure that you’re gracious and thanking them,” he says. While seemingly cliché , it never hurts to end on a simple, “Thank you for your consideration.”

Here are a few more tips to help the cover letter process:

Hopefully these cover letter examples help as you go to tackle your own. Remember: This is just one small step in the process! Take your time, but learn to move on when you’ve given it your all.

Regina Borsellino contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

best sample application letter for job

700+ Professional Cover Letter Examples

Looking to write a cover letter for a job application? Get inspired with our extensive library of cover letter examples. Featuring more than 96 industries and 700+ different job titles, our library has an example for everyone. A good cover letter example can help you understand what to write to impress recruiters, get interviews and propel your job hunt!

Rate this Template

Featured Logo

Popular Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter examples by industry and job title, cover letter examples by level of experience.

Job seekers consider these to be among the best cover letter examples in our library.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Keep scrolling — there’s hundreds of examples for most industries!

Administrative Assistant

Graphic designer, medical assistant, software engineer.

Interested in a specific design? Choose a beautiful template in our Cover Letter Builder  that’s guaranteed to catch the recruiters’ attention.

Browse our cover letter examples to find the one in your industry and with your job title. With hundreds of examples, you’re sure to find your exact role.

JobHero makes writing a cover letter frictionless and fast. Just simply choose from our beautiful templates, customize it and download it.

Accounting

Accounting Cover Letters(30)

Popular titles include:

Account Assistant Cover Letter Account Executive Cover Letter Accountant Cover Letter Accounting Assistant Cover Letter Accounting Associate Cover Letter

Administrative

Administrative Cover Letters(78)

Academic Advisor Cover Letter Admin Assistant Cover Letter Admin Clerk Cover Letter Administration Assistant Cover Letter Administration Manager Cover Letter

Agriculture Farming

Agriculture Farming Cover Letters(3)

Farm Manager Cover Letter Farm Worker Cover Letter Field Worker Cover Letter

Animal Care

Animal Care Cover Letters(9)

Animal Care Attendant Cover Letter Animal Caretaker Cover Letter Dog Groomer Cover Letter Dog Trainer Cover Letter Dog Walker Cover Letter

Architecture

Architecture Cover Letters(10)

Architect Cover Letter Architectural Designer Cover Letter Autocad Drafter Cover Letter CAD Technician Cover Letter Controls Engineer Cover Letter

Arts

Arts Cover Letters(8)

3D Artist Cover Letter Art Gallery Assistant Cover Letter Art Instructor Cover Letter Artist Cover Letter Florist Cover Letter

Aviation

Aviation Cover Letters(9)

Air Hostess Cover Letter Air Traffic Controller Cover Letter Airline Pilot Cover Letter Corporate Flight Attendant Cover Letter Flight Attendant Cover Letter

Banking

Banking Cover Letters(14)

Bank Cashier Cover Letter Bank Clerk Cover Letter Bank Manager Cover Letter Bank Teller Cover Letter Banker Cover Letter

Billing Collections

Billing Collections Cover Letters(15)

Accounts Payable Clerk Cover Letter Accounts Payable Manager Cover Letter Accounts Receivable Clerk Cover Letter Accounts Receivable Specialist Cover Letter Billing Clerk Cover Letter

Biology

Biology Cover Letters(8)

Biologist Cover Letter Biostatistician Cover Letter Laboratory Assistant Cover Letter Laboratory Technician Cover Letter Marine Biologist Cover Letter

Business Operations

Business Operations Cover Letters(42)

Assistant General Manager Cover Letter Associate Consultant Cover Letter Best Executive Assistant Cover Letter Business Consultant Cover Letter Business Development Executive Cover Letter

Casino

Casino Cover Letters(2)

Casino Dealer Cover Letter Runner Cover Letter

Chemistry

Chemistry Cover Letters(5)

Analytical Chemist Cover Letter Chemical Dependency Counselor Cover Letter Chemical Engineer Cover Letter Chemist Cover Letter Lab Technician Cover Letter

Child Care

Child Care Cover Letters(18)

Au Pair Cover Letter Babysitter Cover Letter Child And Youth Worker Cover Letter Child Care Assistant Cover Letter Child Care Director Cover Letter

civil engineering

Civil Engineering Cover Letters(5)

Building Engineer Cover Letter Civil Engineer Cover Letter Construction Engineer Cover Letter Geotechnical Engineer Cover Letter Structural Engineer Cover Letter

compliance

Compliance Cover Letters(3)

Compliance Analyst Cover Letter Compliance Manager Cover Letter Compliance Officer Cover Letter

computer hardware

Computer Hardware Cover Letter(1)

Computer Engineer Cover Letter

computer software

Computer Software Cover Letters(27)

Analyst Programmer Cover Letter Android Developer Cover Letter Apple Specialist Cover Letter Application Engineer Cover Letter Computer Programmer Cover Letter

construction

Construction Cover Letters(20)

Carpenter Cover Letter Construction Foreman Cover Letter Construction Laborer Cover Letter Construction Manager Cover Letter Construction Project Engineer Cover Letter

copywriting

Copywriting Cover Letters(19)

Assignment Editor Cover Letter Assistant Editor Cover Letter Author Cover Letter Content Editor Cover Letter Content Manager Cover Letter

cosmetology

Cosmetology Cover Letters(15)

Barber Cover Letter Beautician Cover Letter Beauty Advisor Cover Letter Beauty Consultant Cover Letter Cosmetologist Cover Letter

culinary

Culinary Cover Letters(26)

Apprentice Chef Cover Letter Assistant Restaurant Manager Cover Letter Baker Cover Letter Banquet Manager Cover Letter Cake Decorator Cover Letter

customer service

Customer Service Cover Letters(50)

Airline Customer Service Agent Cover Letter Bank Customer Service Representative Cover Letter Butler Cover Letter Call Center Agent Cover Letter Call Center Manager Cover Letter

dance

Dance Cover Letters(2)

Dance Teacher Cover Letter Dancer Cover Letter

data systems administration

Data Systems Administration Cover Letters(25)

Data Collector Cover Letter Data Manager Cover Letter Database Administrator Cover Letter Database Assistant Cover Letter DBA Cover Letter

dentistry

Dentistry Cover Letters(9)

Dental Assistant Cover Letter Dental Hygienist Cover Letter Dental Nurse Cover Letter Dental Office Manager Cover Letter Dental Receptionist Cover Letter

driving

Driving Cover Letters(10)

Bus Driver Cover Letter CDL Driver Cover Letter Courier Driver Cover Letter Delivery Driver Cover Letter Driver Cover Letter

education

Education Cover Letters(59)

Academic Coordinator Cover Letter Academic Counselor Cover Letter Admissions Assistant Cover Letter Admissions Coordinator Cover Letter

electrical

Electrical Cover Letters(4)

Electrical Technician Cover Letter Electrician Cover Letter Industrial Electrician Cover Letter Lineman Cover Letter

electrical engineering

Electrical Engineering Cover Letters(5)

Electrical Apprentice Cover Letter Electrical Engineer Cover Letter Electronic Engineer Cover Letter Electronics Technician Cover Letter System Engineer Cover Letter

energy

Energy Cover Letters(6)

Energy Analyst Cover Letter Energy Engineer Cover Letter Meter Reader Cover Letter Plant Manager Cover Letter Plant Operator Cover Letter

engineering

Engineering Cover Letters(22)

Biomedical Engineer Cover Letter Chief Engineer Cover Letter CTO Cover Letter Design Engineer Cover Letter Engineer Cover Letter

entertainment

Entertainment Cover Letters(6)

Actor Cover Letter Actress Cover Letter Director Cover Letter Stage Manager Cover Letter TV Producer Cover Letter

environmental

Environmental Cover Letters(3)

Environmental Consultant Cover Letter Environmental Scientist Cover Letter Environmental Technician Cover Letter

Event Planning

Event Planning Cover Letters(8)

Conference Planner Cover Letter Event Assistant Cover Letter Event Manager Cover Letter Event Planner Cover Letter Events Coordinator Cover Letter

fashion

Fashion Cover Letters(7)

Assistant Designer Cover Letter Fashion Assistant Cover Letter Fashion Buyer Cover Letter Fashion Designer Cover Letter Fashion Sales Associate Cover Letter

film

Film Cover Letters(11)

3D Animator Cover Letter Animator Cover Letter Assistant Director Cover Letter Associate Producer Cover Letter Camera Operator Cover Letter

finance

Finance Cover Letters(49)

Accounts Officer Cover Letter Actuary Cover Letter Assistant Controller Cover Letter Branch Manager Cover Letter Budget Analyst Cover Letter

fire fighting

Fire Fighting Cover Letters(2)

Fire Chief Cover Letter Firefighter Cover Letter

fitness nutrition

Fitness Nutrition Cover Letters(13)

Athletic Director Cover Letter Athletic Trainer Cover Letter Clinical Dietitian Cover Letter Dietary Aide Cover Letter Dietician Cover Letter

food service

Food Service Cover Letters(28)

Banquet Server Cover Letter Bar Manager Cover Letter Bar Staff Cover Letter Barback Cover Letter Barista Cover Letter

funerary

Funerary Cover Letter(1)

Funeral Director Cover Letter

government

Government Cover Letters(11)

Background Investigator Cover Letter City Clerk Cover Letter City Manager Cover Letter City Planner Cover Letter District Manager Cover Letter

graphic web design

Graphic Web Design Cover Letters(18)

Art Director Cover Letter Concept Artist Cover Letter Creative Director Cover Letter Designer Cover Letter Digital Designer Cover Letter

healthcare support

Healthcare Support Cover Letters(37)

Care Aide Cover Letter Care Coordinator Cover Letter Care Worker Cover Letter Certified Medical Assistant Cover Letter Counsellor Cover Letter

hospitality

Hospitality Cover Letters(22)

Bar Attendant Cover Letter Bellman Cover Letter Concierge Cover Letter Front Desk Agent Cover Letter Front Desk Clerk Cover Letter

human resources

Human Resources Cover Letters(36)

Corporate Recruiter Cover Letter Employment Consultant Cover Letter Employment Specialist Cover Letter Facilities Assistant Cover Letter Facilities Coordinator Cover Letter

hvac

Hvac Cover Letter(1)

HVAC Technician Cover Letter

industrial engineering

Industrial Engineering Cover Letters(3)

Industrial Designer Cover Letter Industrial Engineer Cover Letter Quality Engineer Cover Letter

information technology

Information Technology Cover Letters(41)

Analyst Cover Letter Computer Operator Cover Letter Computer Service Technician Cover Letter Computer Technician Cover Letter

insurance

Insurance Cover Letters(13)

Assessor Cover Letter Claims Adjuster Cover Letter Claims Processor Cover Letter Claims Specialist Cover Letter Fraud Analyst Cover Letter

interior design

Interior Design Cover Letters(2)

Interior Designer Cover Letter Product Designer Cover Letter

inventory management

Inventory Management Cover Letters(16)

Distribution Manager Cover Letter Grocery Clerk Cover Letter Inventory Clerk Cover Letter Inventory Control Manager Cover Letter Inventory Manager Cover Letter

janitorial

Janitorial Cover Letters(13)

Cleaner Cover Letter Cleaning Supervisor Cover Letter Custodian Cover Letter Handyman Cover Letter Head Housekeeper Cover Letter

landscaping

Landscaping Cover Letters(2)

Gardener Cover Letter Groundskeeper Cover Letter

law

Law Cover Letters(33)

Associate Attorney Cover Letter Attorney Cover Letter Child Advocate Cover Letter Corporate Lawyer Cover Letter Corporate Paralegal Cover Letter

law enforcement

Law Enforcement Cover Letters(16)

911 Dispatcher Cover Letter Chief Of Staff Cover Letter Correctional Officer Cover Letter Corrections Officer Cover Letter Criminal Investigator Cover Letter

library museum

Library Museum Cover Letters(13)

Academic Librarian Cover Letter Archivist Cover Letter Curator Cover Letter Librarian Cover Letter Library Assistant Cover Letter

logistics

Logistics Cover Letters(10)

Demand Planner Cover Letter Dispatch Clerk Cover Letter Dispatcher Cover Letter Logistics Clerk Cover Letter Logistics Coordinator Cover Letter

Machine Operation Cover Letter Format

Machine Operation Cover Letter(1)

Machine Operator Cover Letter

maintenance

Maintenance Cover Letters(15)

Boilermaker Cover Letter Cable Technician Cover Letter General Maintenance Technician Cover Letter Instrument Technician Cover Letter Maintenance Engineer Cover Letter

marina boating

Marina Boating Cover Letter(1)

Cabin Crew Cover Letter

marketing

Marketing Cover Letters(51)

Account Coordinator Cover Letter Account Manager Cover Letter Advertising Account Executive Cover Letter Advertising Manager Cover Letter Assistant Brand Manager Cover Letter

mechanical engineering

Mechanical Engineering Cover Letters(7)

Mechanical Design Engineer Cover Letter Mechanical Designer Cover Letter Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter Mechanical Fitter Cover Letter Mechanical Supervisor Cover Letter

mechanics

Mechanics Cover Letters(14)

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Cover Letter Aircraft Mechanic Cover Letter Aircraft Technician Cover Letter Auto Mechanic Cover Letter Automotive Engineer Cover Letter

media communication

Media Communication Cover Letters(13)

Audio Engineer Cover Letter Blogger Cover Letter Freelance Translator Cover Letter Interpreter Cover Letter Journalist Cover Letter

medical

Medical Cover Letters(58)

Anesthesiologist Cover Letter Chiropractic Assistant Cover Letter Clinic Manager Cover Letter Clinical Assistant Cover Letter Clinical Research Assistant Cover Letter

mental health

Mental Health Cover Letters(10)

Mental Health Assistant Cover Letter Mental Health Case Manager Cover Letter Mental Health Counselor Cover Letter Mental Health Nurse Cover Letter Mental Health Technician Cover Letter

Metal Work

Metal Work Cover Letters(2)

CNC Machinist Cover Letter Welder Cover Letter

music

Music Cover Letters(7)

Band Director Cover Letter DJ Cover Letter Music Teacher Cover Letter Musician Cover Letter Piano Teacher Cover Letter

nursing

Nursing Cover Letters(40)

Caregiver Cover Letter Charge Nurse Cover Letter Clinical Nurse Cover Letter Clinical Nurse Specialist Cover Letter CNA Cover Letter

pharmaceutical

Pharmaceutical Cover Letters(13)

Clinical Pharmacist Cover Letter Hospital Pharmacist Cover Letter Lab Manager Cover Letter Pharmaceutical Sales Rep Cover Letter Pharmacist Cover Letter

photography

Photography Cover Letters(6)

Freelance Photographer Cover Letter Independent Contractor Cover Letter Photo Editor Cover Letter Photographer Cover Letter Photography Assistant Cover Letter

physical therapy

Physical Therapy Cover Letters(7)

ABA Therapist Cover Letter Beauty Therapist Cover Letter Massage Therapist Cover Letter Physical Therapist Assistant Cover Letter Physical Therapist Cover Letter

plumbing

Plumbing Cover Letters(2)

Pipefitter Cover Letter Plumber Cover Letter

production

Production Cover Letters(20)

Automation Engineer Cover Letter Factory Worker Cover Letter Field Engineer Cover Letter Forklift Operator Cover Letter Logistics Assistant Cover Letter

psychology

Psychology Cover Letters(5)

Clinical Psychologist Cover Letter Psychologist Cover Letter Psychology Research Assistant Cover Letter Psychotherapist Cover Letter School Psychologist Cover Letter

purchasing

Purchasing Cover Letters(10)

Assistant Buyer Cover Letter Buyer Cover Letter Contract Manager Cover Letter Procurement Assistant Cover Letter Procurement Manager Cover Letter

quality control

Quality Control Cover Letters(9)

Inspector Cover Letter Quality Analyst Cover Letter Quality Assurance Analyst Cover Letter Quality Assurance Manager Cover Letter Quality Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

real estate

Real Estate Cover Letters(16)

Apartment Manager Cover Letter Assistant Property Manager Cover Letter Building Inspector Cover Letter Land Surveyor Cover Letter Leasing Agent Cover Letter

religion

Religion Cover Letters(3)

Chaplain Cover Letter Pastor Cover Letter Worship Leader Cover Letter

retail

Retail Cover Letters(28)

Assistant Store Manager Cover Letter Cashier Cover Letter Category Manager Cover Letter Grocery Store Cashier Cover Letter Grocery Store Manager Cover Letter

safety security

Safety Security Cover Letters(15)

Caretaker Cover Letter HSE Manager Cover Letter HSE Officer Cover Letter Intelligence Analyst Cover Letter Lifeguard Cover Letter

sales

Sales Cover Letters(39)

Area Manager Cover Letter Bookseller Cover Letter Car Salesman Cover Letter Direct Sales Representative Cover Letter Field Sales Representative Cover Letter

sciences

Sciences Cover Letters(16)

Astronaut Cover Letter Economic Analyst Cover Letter Economist Cover Letter Epidemiologist Cover Letter Geologist Cover Letter

shipping

Shipping Cover Letters(7)

Courier Cover Letter Export Manager Cover Letter Mail Carrier Cover Letter Mail Clerk Cover Letter Messenger Cover Letter

social services

Social Services Cover Letters(36)

Behavior Therapist Cover Letter Care Assistant Cover Letter Case Manager Cover Letter Case Worker Cover Letter Clinical Social Worker Cover Letter

special education

Special Education Cover Letters(5)

Behavior Interventionist Cover Letter Reading Specialist Cover Letter Special Education Assistant Cover Letter Special Education Teacher Cover Letter Special Needs Assistant Cover Letter

sports

Sports Cover Letters(16)

Assistant Coach Cover Letter Basketball Coach Cover Letter Cheer Coach Cover Letter Cheerleading Coach Cover Letter Football Coach Cover Letter

statistics

Statistics Cover Letters(10)

Actuarial Analyst Cover Letter BI Developer Cover Letter Business Analyst Cover Letter Business Intelligence Analyst Cover Letter Business Systems Analyst Cover Letter

teaching

Teaching Cover Letters(67)

Adjunct Instructor Cover Letter Adjunct Professor Cover Letter Art Teacher Cover Letter Assistant Professor Cover Letter Assistant Teacher Cover Letter

training development

Training Development Cover Letters(11)

Corporate Trainer Cover Letter Director Of Development Cover Letter Instructional Coach Cover Letter Learning And Development Manager Cover Letter Manager Trainee Cover Letter

transportation

Transportation Cover Letters(11)

Baggage Handler Cover Letter Chauffeur Cover Letter Conductor Cover Letter Fleet Manager Cover Letter Package Handler Cover Letter

travel

Travel Cover Letters(5)

Tour Guide Cover Letter Tour Manager Cover Letter Travel Agent Cover Letter Travel Consultant Cover Letter Travel Coordinator Cover Letter

veterinary

Veterinary Cover Letters(7)

Vet Assistant Cover Letter Vet Tech Cover Letter Veterinarian Cover Letter Veterinary Assistant Cover Letter Veterinary Nurse Cover Letter

web development

Web Development Cover Letters(13)

Front End Developer Cover Letter Front End Web Developer Cover Letter Full Stack Developer Cover Letter Junior Web Developer Cover Letter PHP Developer Cover Letter

From entry-level applicants to seasoned professionals, we have a great cover letter example for every step in your career journey.

Unlike generic cover letter examples, these samples will help you showcase your experience level, explain why you want the job and describe the skills that make you the perfect candidate.

Entry-Level

Entry-level

When you’re entering the workforce for the first time, a strong cover letter will convey:

Why you want the job.

What makes you an excellent fit for the role.

Any relevant experiences you’ve had in or outside of a workplace.

Check out how this entry-level candidate applying for an administrative assistant position uses their cover letter to shift away from a lack of professional experience to focus on their skills, passion and other valuable attributes.

Career change

If you’re applying for a job in an industry that is new to you, your cover letter is the best place to explain:

Why you are changing industries.

How your skills would transfer to the new role.

Which parts of your work experience are relevant to the new role.

Notice how this candidate explains why they are transitioning from the service industry into a new role as an administrative assistant.

Experienced

When you’re already quite experienced in your career, your cover letter is the perfect place to:

Tell an anecdote that highlights your achievements.

Share a story about a problem you overcame in the workplace.

Bring the details of your long career to life.

Watch how the candidate details their many years of experience as an administrator in this basic cover letter example.

Once you’ve gotten promoted for your hard work, your cover letter is the best spot to:

Showcase your career growth.

Discuss the knowledge you’ve accrued.

Highlight some of the quantifiable successes that made you an all-star.

As a manager, you want to inspire confidence that you’ll bring that same upward trajectory of your career to their business! See how this job seeker uses his tenure and specialized industry language to boost authority, confidence and trust.

How can cover letter examples help me?

Any good example of a cover letter will show you how to describe your work experience to impress employers effectively.

So, use samples as the source of good ideas!

Look for things in cover letter examples that you think are useful, interesting or relevant to your own job candidacy.

When you see the kind of information or stories people tell in their cover letters, it can give you great ideas about the types of things you can discuss in your letter.

Identify things you see that work well in other cover letters to tell employers what you’re capable of in the most effective way possible and make them your own by adjusting them to fit your experience and work history. See what works and use it.

How do I write a cover letter?

The process of writing a cover letter never changes. Every cover letter will consist of the same parts:

Your contact information

The employer’s contact information

The letter’s body

A salutation

To guarantee you succeed, ensure you understand how to write and properly format a cover letter before you submit your application.

Will using a cover letter builder make it easy for me to create a cover letter?

Yes, more and more job seekers are choosing to ditch the old-fashioned way of writing a cover letter from scratch to using a cover letter builder .

A builder increases the speed and ease with which you can create a cover letter by guiding you through the writing process and providing suggested content based on the job that you’re applying to.

You’ll also get a cover letter that looks great and is error-free thanks to the builder’s professional cover letter templates and its spelling and grammar checking tool.

Don’t miss the chance to apply for the job that you want because you’re struggling to write a cover letter from scratch. We’re here to help get your cover letter ready in no time!

Cover Letter Examples That Will Help Get You Hired

man_working on laptop_with headphones

If you're wondering how to write a cover letter , you're in the right place! Monster's library of cover letter examples can help you do exactly that.

It doesn't matter what industry you're in or level you're at in your career—to get noticed by potential employers, your professional cover letter needs to knock their socks off. Writing a good cover letter is about much more than friendly greeting; it's a tool that lets hiring managers know that you're the candidate they've been hoping for.

Because recruiters and hiring managers have seen every type of cover letter format imaginable, for maximum wow-factor, you must build a cover letter that highlights your industry-specific experience, accomplishments , and credentials.

Is a Cover Letter Necessary?

If the job ad calls for a cover letter, yes, it is necessary to include one. Failure to have a cover letter for a job can immediately disqualified you from consideration if it’s explicitly stated that one is required. As a job seeker, you need to demonstrate that you’re able to follow directions. An employer might interpret your missing cover letter to mean that you didn’t pay attention to what was asked of you. Not a good look.

If a job ad doesn’t say a cover letter is required , then you do not need to include one with your application. That said, if the job application has a section for any additional information you would like to share with an employer, it’s highly recommended that you copy and paste the text of your cover letter into this area. The same is true if you’re required to email your application; copy and paste your cover letter into the body of the email.

As good a source of candidate information as a resume is, it doesn’t really give you the same kind of opportunity to share your personality with an employer. Culture fit is very high on the list of determining factors that can cause you to be hired, and a good cover letter can mean the difference between you getting called in for an interview or not.

Cover Letter Length

A cover letter shouldn't be longer than one page; three or four paragraphs will suffice. Aim for about 250 to 400 words. Any longer, and your efforts risk being wasted.

First of all, hiring managers and recruiters are busy people who don’t have time to read through pages and pages of copy. Second, you should be able to succinctly hit your selling points. This may take a few rounds to perfect, but it’ll be worth it. Nobody wants you to spend time and energy writing scrolls of copy that a hiring manager won’t even both reading on account of you being long-winded.

Tips for Using Cover Letter Templates

1. Customize your cover letter for each job. In the examples below, you’ll see the advantage of having a dedicated space to engage with an employer, but don't rely on a generic cover letter to get noticed. Create a different cover letter for each job to which you're applying. Companies want to feel special, like you're applying to their job, not just any old job. Tell a brief story or two that demonstrates how your skills and experience can benefit the company’s particular needs.

2. Don't simply reiterate your resume. In a cover letter, you don’t just list facts about your work history—you use emotion and storytelling to add some life to the page. For example, if you see on a company’s website that they’re in the process of rolling out new products to the international market, you can talk about how you’ve been involved in a number of successful global product launches and really loved developing marketing campaigns for different countries and customs, which strengthened your dedication to connecting with customers all over the world.

3. Put your personality into it. Whatever you do, do not simply copy and paste these cover letter examples and pass them off as your own. The whole point of a cover letter is to convince an employer of your one-of-a-kind value.

Steps to Write a Cover Letter

Start with the proper greeting: Address your cover letter to the person who will be reading it. If you do not know the person's gender, write out their full name.

Introduce yourself with an opening : Write a personable, inviting opening paragraph that highlights how your skills are a perfect fit to the company and position.

Get them interested with a compelling hook: Highlight your past achievements as they relate to the job you're applying for.

Promote your skills : Highlight your additional relevant skills, such as computer languages or certifications.

Thank them in the close : Briefly recap your strengths as a candidate, thank the reader for their time, and include your contact information.

A professional cover letter is worth all the effort. If you need writing help, check out these cover letter templates for various careers and career levels in the following industries:

Administrative/Support Cover Letter Examples

Art/Design/Media Cover Letter Examples

Business Cover Letter Examples

Child Care Cover Letter Examples

Babysitter Cover Letter

Education Cover Letter Examples

Engineering Cover Letter Examples

Finance/Accounting Cover Letter Examples

Health Care Cover Letter Examples

Human Resources Cover Letter Examples

Job Search Cover Letter Examples

Law Enforcement and Legal Cover Letter Examples

Marketing and PR Cover Letter Examples

Military Cover Letter Examples

Nurse Cover Letter Examples

Real Estate Cover Letter Examples

Restaurant and Hospitality Cover Letter Examples

Retail Cover Letter Examples

Sales Cover Letter Examples

Science Cover Letter Examples

Student Cover Letter Examples

Technology Cover Letter Examples

Trades Cover Letter Examples

Transportation and Warehousing Cover Letter Examples

Finished Writing a Cover Letter? Now Get Your Resume in Shape

Once you've used Monster's cover letter examples to complete your own, it's time to focus on that other important piece of paper: your resume. Could you use a little help with that? Get a free resume evaluation today from Monster, and you'll get detailed feedback in two business days. It's a quick and easy way to make sure your candidacy for the job is as strong as possible.

Most Helpful In Cover Letters

 alt=

Nursing Cover Letter Example

By Martina Mascali, Monster Contributor

Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example

By Jennifer Verta, Monster Contributor

Sample Sales Cover Letter

Administrative assistant cover letter sample, how to write a police officer cover letter - with example.

250+ Cover Letter Examples for 2023

Create a first-class cover letter that gets you the job interview, using cover letter samples for over 500 jobs written and designed by our experts.

  Cover letters are essentially elevator pitches that give employers insight into your strengths and accomplishments . Our cover letter examples are effective because they:

Cover Letter Example

Show real interest.

Cover Letter Jt

Highlight key skills and achievements .

Cover Letter Jt Example

Explain why the applicant is the best job candidate.

What to include in a cover letter

Contact information:.

List your phone number and professional email address.

Employer’s information:

This should look like our job cover letter sample.

Salutation:

Address the letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager.

Start with a relevant accomplishment like our letter sample.

Elaborate on your accomplishments and skills to show your value.

The best cover letter examples close by inviting employers to get in touch.

Want more examples of cover letters, plus tips for organizing and formatting a cover letter? Check out our guide to cover letter formats .

Education Jt

Perfect Cover Letter Builder

Our Cover Letter Builder helps you write a cover letter in minutes with step-by-step guidance, expert phrases and professional, customizable templates.

Professional cover letter examples by industry and job title

Accounting cover letter examples.

For an accounting job, follow our employment cover letter examples to emphasize your number-crunching skills and your ability to work with others.

You’ve made an impression with your analytical acumen and your critical thinking skills. These cover letter examples show how to expand on those strengths.

Our Cover Letter Builder will help you craft a great cover letter that tells employers who you are and what you can bring to the table. We offer:

Example cover letters for administrative jobs

Get inspired by these great cover letter examples and showcase your keen eye for detail, good organization and proficiency with computer software.

Administrative

Your ability to multitask is unparalleled. These cover letter examples will help you show employers what makes you a cut above the rest.

Use our Cover Letter Builder to write a perfect cover letter. Our builder provides:

Professional cover letter examples for business operations jobs

Like these cover letter examples for a job in business operations, focus on your ability to coordinate teams and processes and your superior communications skills.

Business operations

Your technical proficiency is as strong as your decision making and problem-solving abilities. Our cover letter examples for business operations will help you to stand out from the crowd.

Our Cover Letter Builder will help you to quickly and easily create a cover letter that gets noticed. We provide:

Construction cover letter examples

Use an application letter sample to highlight your strong work ethic and ability to work with specific equipment, such as forklifts or cranes.

Construction

You’re deterous, organized and you can solve problems on the fly. Our construction industry cover letter examples will help you expand on your toolkit and knowledge, so hiring managers know you’re the one for the job.

Our Cover Letter Builder will help you create the perfect cover letter that tells employers who you are and why you want to work for them. Plus, we provide:

Culinary cover letter examples

Enthusiasm, experience in fast-paced work environments and knowledge of food preparation are key areas to cover in a culinary cover letter. Get inspired by a job cover letter sample below.

Make a great impression on hiring managers with our culinary cover letter examples. We’ll help you align your agility in the kitchen with your attention to detail and customer service acumen.

Our Cover Letter Builder will help you build the perfect cover letter and provide:

Sample cover letters for customer service jobs

Use one of our customer service employment cover letter examples as a guide to stress your commitment to assisting people and your ability to work as part of a team.

Customer service

Our customer service cover letter examples can help you get the job you want. We’ll show you how to describe your experience, showcase interpersonal skills and display your personality to impress potential employers.

Create an effective cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder. We provide:

Education cover letter samples

These are good cover letter examples to follow if you want to highlight your proficiency with specific subjects and intangible strengths such as flexibility, communication and patience.

Get inspired with these professionally crafted education cover letter samples. We will show you how to effectively express your passion for the job, convey your knowledge and show your top strengths.

Use our Cover Letter Builder to make the perfect education cover letter. Our builder offers:

Examples of cover letters for the food service industry

Display your experiences in fast-paced work environments where teamwork is a necessity, like our expert-written cover letter examples for a job in the food service industry.

Food service

You’re a patient mulitasker with exceptional communication skills. Let our cover letter examples for the food service industry show you how to tell your professional story in a way that hiring managers want to read.

Our Cover Letter Builder can help you expand on the skills you bring to the table and so potential employers know what makes you the best candidate for the job. We give you:

Resume cover letter examples for health care support jobs

Elaborate on your training and experience in health care situations and programs. Use our cover letter samples for guidance and include a story about services you’ve provided to patients.

Health care support

Make the best impression on potential employers by using our cover letter examples to display your skills and knowledge in a way that says “I’m the best candidate.”

With the help of our Cover Letter Builder, you can create an effective cover letter with:

Hospitality cover letter examples

Use a sample cover letter for a resume in the hospitality field for inspiration when emphasizing your achievements and dedication to customer satisfaction.

Hospitality

These hospitality cover letter examples will inspire your to make the most of your exceptional customer service skills, organizational abilities and professional achievements.

With the help of our Cover Letter Builder, you can make the best impression with:

Information technology job application letters

Explain how you’ve used your top computer system maintenance skills and show how you’ve successfully improved IT operations in previous jobs. Use our cover letter samples as guides.

Information technology

Use our information technology cover letter examples to show the achievements and technical acumen you bring to the table.

Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft an effective letter. We offer:

Best cover letter examples for law

A good cover letter provides a rundown of your experiences handling legal affairs, performing research or handling documentation and administration at a law firm.

Our cover letter samples for the law profession will help you plead your case that there’s no one better for the job.

Use our cover letter builder to build a compelling cover letter that wins over potential employers. Our builder provides:

Marketing cover letter samples

Like our sample application letter for a job, demonstrate your creativity, leadership and strategic thinking abilities, and highlight areas of focus like social media or email marketing.  

These marketing sample cover letters will inspire you to display your industry strengths and work experience so that hiring managers want to know more.

Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft an effective letter. It provides:

Medical cover letter examples

Go beyond standard credentials and training. Let our sample cover letters help you highlight your ability to empathize with clients and patients.

Our medical cover letter examples will help you display your medical knowledge, industry achievements licenses and certifications to stand out.

Our Cover Letter Builder is the best way to craft a perfect medical cover letter. We offer:

Nursing cover letter examples

Emphasize your interpersonal and communication skills, areas of expertise and best experiences caring for others in your nursing resume cover letter.

Use our nursing cover letter samples for inspiration. We’ll help you express your compassion for others, display your ability to multitask, and showcase your attention to detail. Hiring managers won’t want to look away.

Use our Cover Letter Builder to create a cover letter quickly and easily. We offer:

Production cover letter samples

Similar to our sample letter of interest for a job in production, convince employers you’re the right person for the job by showcasing your ability to work well with others.

Use these production sample cover letters to see how to best emphasize your work achievements and greatest strengths.

Retail application letter examples

Provide details on your retail resume cover letter on job-related abilities, such as maintaining merchandise and point-of-sale systems, and interpersonal skills such as customer service and multitasking abilities.

Our retail cover letter examples are inspiring. Use them to help you write a perfect cover letter that compels hiring managers to learn more.

Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a compelling cover letter quickly and easily. We provide:

Great cover letter examples for sales jobs

Give concrete examples of how you’ve helped improve a company’s bottom line, using  our cover letter samples for guidance.

Social services cover letter examples

Choose an example cover letter to see how to emphasize your ability to communicate with others. Add any training in specialized areas such as substance abuse work to your letter.

Social services

Our social services cover letter samples  will help you expand on your experience and core qualifications so that you can display your compassion, patience and top-notch listening skills.

Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a cover letter that gets noticed. We provide:

Teaching cover letter examples

Let potential employers know you have specialized knowledge and explain how you enrich children in the classroom. Our cover letter examples for a job in teaching can help!

Our sample cover letters for teaching will inspire your to display your presentation skills, interpersonal skills and in-depth subject matter expertise so that potential employers can’t look elsewhere.

Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft a compelling cover letter with ease. Our builder provides:

Cover letter examples for other popular industries

Examples of cover letters for special circumstances, entry-level cover letter.

A simple cover letter should focus on your skills, education and willingness to learn in a new position.

Use our Cover Letter Builder to create a cover letter that will help jump-start your career with:

Entry-level cover letter example

Notice how this example of an application letter emphasizes the job seeker’s training, skills and career ambitions while also connecting them to what the potential employer needs.

Career change cover letter

This modern cover letter example can help showcase the changes you’ve made to move forward in your career. It will also help highlight your transferable skills and career accomplishments.

Make this letter your own in our Cover Letter Builder, which includes:

Career change cover letter for a job application

When changing careers, you must make a connection between jobs. Follow the lead of this sample cover letter by highlighting skills you’ve developed in previous jobs that match the new one.

Employment gap cover letter

A cover letter is the best tool to explain a time period without employment. This example shows you how to approach the subject while keeping the attention on your skills and qualifications.

You can edit this cover letter in our Cover Letter Builder, which provides:

Employment gap application letter sample

If you’ve been away from full-time work for long stretches, it’s important to explain to employers what you’ve done during that time. Our cover letter example for a job gap shows how to do so effectively while focusing on your qualifications.

“Cold call” cover letter

Make a confident approach with this cold call cover letter example. Let your skills and qualifications speak for themselves while you make a connection with an employer.

Edit this cover letter with ease in our Cover Letter Builder, which provides you with:

“Cold call” cover letter sample

“Cold call” cover letters are necessary when companies don’t have open positions. This sample letter works perfectly because the first paragraph shows that the job candidate has done her “homework” on the company. She mentions their mission, vision and high standards, and she highlights what she has to offer them.

Professional connection cover letter

Use our Cover Letter Builder to expand on the skills you’ve learned on the job and what you can offer your employer now.

Professional connection cover letter example

If someone within the company recommended you for the position, write a cover letter that centers around your professional connection, as shown in this resume cover page example.

Temporary-to-permanent employee cover letter

Make it official. Use a modern resume template to transition into a permanent position. Bring to the table the achievements you’ve reached, what you’ve learned so far and how your skills have helped the success of your temporary employer.

Use our Cover Letter Builder to create an effective letter that takes you from a temp to a permanent employee with:

Temporary-to-permanent employee sample cover letter

The goal of these types of cover letters is to show hiring managers why they should hire you as a full-time employee. Our letter example focuses on specific contributions and explains how they can provide even more value as a full-time employee.

Seeking promotion cover letter

You’ve impressed your employer with your skills and achievements and now you want more. Use this contemporary cover letter to state your case, bring attention to your accomplishments and expand on what you could do in a higher position.

Seeking promotion cover letter example

This application letter is different from other resume cover letter examples because it stresses the job applicant’s familiarity with the company’s goals, values and processes — a big advantage over other applicants.

Unadvertised position cover letter

No need to wait until a job posting is available to apply. Reach out to a potential employer and share your enthusiasm and what you could bring to the company.

Our Cover Letter Builder can help you expand on the skills you can bring to the table and why you should be considered as a candidate.

Sample cover letter for an unadvertised position

No posted job description to refer to? Use this cover letter example for a job that isn’t advertised to help you explain how you heard about the role and to share your enthusiasm about joining the team. Mention your top skills and accomplishments.

New position with current employer cover letter

A modern cover letter includes your career progress, goals reached while at the company and the knowledge acquired through experience. Find new footing in your career by adding a cover letter to your application.

Create an effective cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder, which will help with:

Job application letter for a new position with current employer

Put your best foot forward with a compelling cover letter for a resume. Like this sample letter of interest for a job with the same employer, point out your accomplishments and explain how you will benefit your employer on future projects.

Referral cover letter

You’ve made an impression on your previous employers and they’re willing to back it up. With this classic cover letter, you can expand your skills and what you can bring to a new employer.

Our Cover Letter Builder will help you craft a great cover letter with the referrals to back it up and:

Referral cover letter sample

When done correctly, telling an employer that someone in the company referred you lets them know you’re someone they can trust. Use our referral cover letter sample to do this correctly and catch their attention the right way.

Other cover letter resources

The following articles are a great source of information to make our cover letter examples your own:

Get noticed with a polished cover letter

Use our cover letter examples as inspiration to write a perfect cover letter with our Cover Letter Builder. We guide you through each section of your cover letter and provide expert phrases you can include in just a few clicks.

Cover letter examples FAQ

Last Updated: February 13, 2023

Why should I use your cover letter examples?

My Perfect Resume has 200+ cover letter examples that work for job seekers from all industries and job titles. We offer the following features:

Are cover letters really necessary?

The short answer is yes. According to the Society of Human Resources Management , a cover letter demonstrates your genuine interest in the job and company. It’s also an opportunity to discuss your accomplishments, introduce yourself more personally, and make a more detailed case for why the employer should be interested in you. This is why we have 200+ cover letter examples for jobs in dozens of industries — you can find the inspiration you need to write a letter that makes an impact.

Should you write a different cover letter for each job application?

Absolutely!

Every job application and company is different. Like a resume, you should use a sample cover letter to tailor your letter to the job you’re applying for and the employer you’re directing that letter to. You want to ensure that what you write and your tone align with the company culture, values and, most importantly, the job application.

What should not be included in a cover letter?

Review our library of 200+ cover letter examples for jobs in various industries to get a good idea of what to write in your cover letter.

Should you address employment gaps in a cover letter?

You do not have to discuss the details of employment gaps due to personal reasons (such as an illness or a family matter that needed attending). Neither do gaps caused by your former employer firing or laying you off. 

Instead, follow our employment gap cover letter example on this page, and write about your skills, qualifications and relevant experiences and how excited you are about this new opportunity. Just be prepared to discuss employment gaps during the job interview phase . If you can show you were busy with other important pursuits or trained on new skills during your time off, mention them in your letter.

How to write a cover letter that gets noticed?

Here are some tips for writing a great cover letter: 

Kellie Hanna

Kellie Hanna

Content strategist, career advice expert.

Kellie is the content strategist for My Perfect Resume. She has more than 20 years of experience in digital media and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate their careers. She has a B.A. in English and writing from Temple University.

More cover letter advice

Writing Tips To Get Hired

Best Cover Letter Writing tips for 2023

These cover letter writing tips will help you write the perfect cover letter to get the job you want.

8 Ways Incorporate Volunteer Work Cover Letter

8 Ways to Incorporate Volunteer Work Into Your Cover Letter

Volunteer work can improve your chances of standing out as a remarkable applicant. Use our tips to learn how to use this type of experience to your advantage.

Cover Letter Advice How To Sort The Good From The Bad

Cover Letter Advice: How to Sort the Good From the Bad

Here are a few signature signs that can help you separate wise advice from generic clichés about writing cover letters.

RESUME BUILDER

COVER LETTER BUILDER

Cover Letter Examples Footer

IMAGES

  1. Download Application Letter For Employment 2020 Images

    best sample application letter for job

  2. job application letter sample

    best sample application letter for job

  3. Best Job Application Letter / Cover Letter To Employment Agency Job Application Letter : Good

    best sample application letter for job

  4. Job Application Letter Sample

    best sample application letter for job

  5. An Application Letter For A Job

    best sample application letter for job

  6. Job Application Letter

    best sample application letter for job

VIDEO

  1. latter /application letter/job application in English

  2. How to write job application letter#shorts

  3. Application for Water Connection

  4. HOW TO WRITE JOB APPLICATION FOR ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT

  5. How to write job application for the post of an English Teacher || Job application for Teaching Job

  6. Letter to Headmaster requesting to promote a student/calligraphy

COMMENTS

  1. How to Write a Job Application Cover Letter

    Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.

  2. What Is a Letter of Introduction for a Job?

    Letters of introduction are mainly used to express interest in a job that has not been advertised, while cover letters are used to express interest in a job that has been advertised.

  3. How to Complete a Job Application Form

    When you’re in the market for a new job, there’s a lot to think about. There’s excitement over the prospect of embarking on a new life path, of course, but you’ll also need to prepare a few things before you’re even called in for an intervi...

  4. The 12 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

    A cover letter is used to demonstrate your interest in the role, passion for the company, and the impact you've had in previous positions.

  5. 21+ Cover Letter Examples in 2023 [For All Professions]

    Top ↑21 Cover Letter Examples #1. Career Change Cover Letter Example #2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example #3. Middle Management Cover

  6. Professional Cover Letter Examples to Apply for a Job in 2023

    A good cover letter should include 3–4 short paragraphs and no more than 400 words in total. Remember that recruiters prefer brief and easy-to-read content, so

  7. Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

    Get off to a direct start. In your first paragraph, explain why you are writing. Mention the job title and company name, and where you found the

  8. Professional Cover Letter Examples for Job Seekers in 2023

    What are 3 things you should include in a cover letter? · An introduction – tell employers who you are and what kind of experience you have.

  9. Cover Letter Examples to Get a Job in 2023

    Universal cover letter example · Address/Salutation: This belongs at the top of the document, where you include your contact info and the address of the person

  10. Cover Letter Samples and Templates

    When you're applying for a job, a cover letter lets you show a personal side and demonstrate why hiring you is a smart decision. Cover letters should be

  11. 4 Cover Letter Examples That'll Make Writing Yours Way Easier

    I would love the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your legal team. Thank you in advance for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from

  12. Cover Letter Examples To Get a Job in 2023

    Looking to write a cover letter for a job application? Get inspired with our extensive library of cover letter examples. Featuring more than 96 industries

  13. Cover Letter Examples That Will Help Get You Hired

    I would love the opportunity to discuss with you how I can create images that bring your brand's strategic vision to life. I can be reached at (555) 555-5555 or

  14. 250+ Cover Letter Examples for 2023

    Put your best foot forward with a compelling cover letter for a resume. Like this sample letter of interest for a job with the same employer