purpose of cover letter and resume

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How and Why to Write a Great Cover Letter

A cover letter is a one-page business letter that you submit when applying to a job, along with your resume. As a piece of persuasive writing, your cover letter will aim to convey to the employer why you’re a great candidate for the role.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

Your cover letter complements your resume by making it easy for the employer to see how your experience and interest connect to the position. Your goal is to convince the employer to interview you.

With your cover letter, you’ll aim to:

• Highlight your qualifications:  You’ll show how your skills and experience relate to the employer’s needs for a specific position.
• Showcase your motivation: You’ll demonstrate your enthusiasm for the specific position and the organization.
• Reflect your voice and written communication skills: You’ll give the employer a sense of your personality and writing style.

When should I write a cover letter?

Not all jobs require cover letters. So, how do you decide whether to submit one?

Submit a Cover Letter when…

• The posting explicitly requests that you do so
• You’re applying to an opportunity at a mission-driven organization
• You think that doing so could provide important information to the employer that they wouldn’t get from your resume

Consider Submitting a Cover Letter when…

• It’s marked “optional” in an application, and you have the bandwidth to do so
• You have content that you can easily recycle or repurpose into a tailored cover letter

No Need to Submit a Cover Letter when…

• A posting specifically tells you not to submit one
• There’s no way to submit one in an application portal, and doing so would require a serious workaround

If you’re applying to several similar opportunities, creating a draft cover letter in advance, geared toward that type of opportunity, can be a helpful way to save time in your actual application process.

How do I write a cover letter?

Your cover letter should articulate your qualifications and motivation for the position. Read the job description closely and research the organization. As you craft your cover letter, use examples that demonstrate your relevant skills, knowledge, and interests. The cover letter should be concise, clear, and well-organized.

Before Writing

Research the employer.

Learn enough about the organization to articulate why you are a strong fit for that firm. 

• Review the firm’s website and LinkedIn page.
• Speak with current or previous employees.
• Read articles and social media for current news.

Analyze the job description

Look for skills, duties, and qualifications of the job so you can design your letter to match these as much as possible.

Reflect on your experience and motivation

Identify skills and personal qualities you have developed which will be useful in this role. Ask yourself:

• What attracts you about this role/company/industry?
• What have you have done in your work experiences, classes, internships, activities, projects, volunteer work, travel, etc., that is similar to the duties required of the job? 

Cover Letter Structure

As a business letter, the cover letter should include:

• Heading: Include your name and contact information in the same format as your resume
• Salutation: Address your letter to the specific individual who can hire you, if this is known. If the name is not included in the job description, address the letter to the Hiring Manager or title mentioned in the job description.
• Body Paragraphs:  Discuss your experiences, interests, and skills to show the employer how you can add value to their team. See the section below for more guidance.
• Signature Line: Include a closing and your name.

The cover letter should be one page, about three or four paragraphs, and single spaced. Use 10-12 point font and one inch margins. 

When applying online, upload your cover letter as a PDF file, unless another format is specified. When sending your resume and cover letter by email, you may write a short note or paste your cover letter in the body of your email (without the address header) and also attach the PDF file.

Cover Letter Content

Your cover letter should answer who, what, when, where and why you are applying for the opportunity. 

Introduction

State the position for which you are applying. If you have a referral or spoke with someone from the company, you can mention it in the introduction. Provide some basic information about yourself; this can include your class year and what you’re studying at Columbia. Briefly outline why you’re interested in the organization and what you bring in terms of relevant experience and skills. 

Body Paragraphs

These paragraphs will highlight your qualifications and strengths that are most relevant to the organization and position. Use the job posting and your research as clues to determine what the employer is seeking in a candidate. Have your resume beside you and reflect on what you want the employer to know about you. Are there experiences you want to expand upon that demonstrate your understanding of the role and ability to do the job requirements?

Structure the paragraphs based on relevance, not chronology. Lead with your most relevant skill or strongest experience.

Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence.  This can highlight a key skill set, a transferable experience, or a core area of knowledge you’ve built through your studies. Walk the reader through a project or experience, integrating the relevant skills you used and qualities you demonstrated. Provide details about your accomplishments and impact. Connect how these experiences have prepared you for this role and why you are motivated to do this job. There is no need to apologize if you feel you lack experience; focus on the accomplishments that you have.

Recap what you would bring to the organization and your interest in the position. Thank the employer for their consideration. Keep your tone positive and enthusiastic. 

Check out our example of how to structure your cover letter content . 

Editing Tips

Use our  Cover Letter Checklist to make sure your format and content is in line with best practices. 

• Ensure that the content reflects the requirements in the job description
• Keep the cover letter concise, at one page or less
• Correct any errors in grammar, sentence structure, and spelling
• Use the active voice
• Avoid beginning too many sentences with “I”

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How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Examples

After weeks of heavy job search, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume. 

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send your application and call it a day, you remember that the job ad requires a cover letter.

Now you’re stuck wondering how to write a cover letter ...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

• What’s a cover letter & why it’s important for your job search
• How to write a convincing cover letter that gets you the job (step-by-step!)
• How to perfect your cover letter with the Novoresume free checklist
• What excellent cover letter examples look like

New to cover letter writing? Give our resumes 101 video a watch before diving into the article!

So, let’s get started with the basics!

What is a Cover Letter? (and Why It’s Important)

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application (alongside your CV or 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 spark the HR manager’s interest and get them to read your resume. 

A bad cover letter, on the other hand, might mean that your application is going directly to the paper shredder. So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

How does a good cover letter look, you might ask. Well, here’s an example:

Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you don’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume.

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, writing all this might seem pretty tough. After all, you’re probably not a professional writer.

The thing is, though, you don’t need to be creative, or even any good at writing. All you have to do is follow a tried-and-tested format:

• Header - Input contact information
• Greeting the hiring manager
• Opening paragraph - Grab the reader’s attention with 2-3 of your top achievements
• Second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job
• Third paragraph - Explain why you’re a good match for the company
• Formal closing

Or, here’s what this looks like in practice:

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter (And Get Hired!)

Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, we’re going to guide you through the process of writing a cover letter step by step. 

Step #1 - Pick the Right Cover Letter Template

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

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, visual template?

You can simply pick one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in a jiffy!

As a bonus, our AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter on the go.

Step #2 - Start the Cover Letter with a Header

As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with a Contact Information section:

Here, you want to include all essential information, including:

• Phone Number
• Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
• Name of the company you’re applying to

In certain cases, you might also consider adding:

• Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
• Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your blog.

And here’s what you shouldn’t mention in your header:

• Your Full Address 
• Unprofessional Email - Make sure your email is presentable. It’s pretty hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Whenever applying for jobs, stick to the “[first name] + [last name] @ email provider.com” format.

Step #3 - Greet the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed your contact information, you need to start writing the cover letter contents.

The first thing to do here is to address the cover letter to the hiring manager .

That’s right, the hiring manager! Not the overly popular “Dear Sir or Madam.” You want to show your future boss that you did your research and are really passionate about working with their team.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes to get hired in any of them.

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager? There are several ways to do this. 

The simplest option is to look up the head of the relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably Head of Communications or Chief Communications Office.

So, you do a quick lookup on LinkedIn:

And voila! You have your hiring manager.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of a server. In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager.”

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.

Here are several other greetings you could use:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• To whom it may concern
• Dear [Department] Team

Step #4 - Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

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 #1 problem we see with most cover letter opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Most of them look 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.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say pretty much anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

Do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to 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.

So now, let’s make our previous example shine:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed their 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 excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the job.

See the difference between the two examples? If you were the hiring manager, which sales manager would you hire, Jonathan or Michael?

Now that we’ve covered the introduction, let’s talk about the body of your cover letter. This part is split into two paragraphs: the first is for explaining why you’re the perfect person for the job, and the latter is for proving that you’re a good fit for the company.

So, let’s get started...

Step #5 - Explain why you’re the perfect person for the job

This is where you show off your professional skills and convince the HR manager that you’re a better fit for the job than all the other applicants.

But first things first - before you even write anything, you need to learn what the most important requirements for the role are. So, open up the job ad and identify which of the responsibilities are the most critical.

For the sake of the example, let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. You scan the job ad and see that the top requirements are:

• Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
• Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
• Excellent copywriting skills

Now, in this section, you need to discuss how you fulfill these requirements. So, here’s how that would look for our example:

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 & management process end-to-end. Meaning, I created the ad copy , images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

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

• Google Search

Are you a student applying for your first internship? You probably don’t have a lot of work experience to show off in this section. Learn how to write an internship cover letter here.

Step #6 - Explain why you’re a good fit for the company

Once you’ve written the last paragraph, you might be thinking - I’m a shoo-in for the job! What else do I need to write? I’ll just wrap up the cover letter and hit that sweet SEND button.

Well, no. You’re not quite there yet.

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 . 

Meaning, you also need to convince the HR manager that you’re really passionate about working with them.

How do you do this? Well, as a start, you want to do some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?

So, get to Googling. Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or somewhere around the web.

Then, you need to figure out what you like about the company and turn that into text.

Let’s say, for example, you’re passionate about their product and you like the culture of innovation / independent work in the organization.

You’d write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2 were real game changers for the device. 

I really admire how Company XYZ thrives for excellence for all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone that thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I and Company XYZ will be a great match.

What you don’t want to do here is be super generic for the sake of having something to write. Most job seekers tend to mess this one up. Let’s take a look at a very common example we tend to see (way too often):

I’d love to work for Company XYZ because of its culture of innovation. I believe that since I’m super creative, I’d be a good fit for the company. The company values of integrity and transparency really vibe with me.

See what’s wrong here? The example doesn’t really say anything about the company. “Culture of Innovation” is something most companies claim to have. 

The same goes for “values of integrity and transparency” - the writer just googled what the values for the organization are, and said that they like them.

Any hiring manager that reads this will see through the fluff.

So, make sure to do a lot of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying.

Step #7 - Wrap up with a call to action

Finally, it’s time to finish up your cover letter and write the conclusion.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? Any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision? Mention it here.
• Thank the hiring manager for their time. It never hurts to be courteous, as long as you don’t come off as too needy.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. You should ask the hiring manager to take some sort of action.

And now, let’s turn this into a practical example:

So to wrap it all up, thanks for looking into my application. I hope I can help Company X make the most out of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your facebook marketing goals.

Step #8 - Use the right 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 to a cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

And we’re finally done! Before sending off the cover letter, make sure to proofread it with software like Grammarly, or maybe even get a friend to review it for you.

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional email
• Relevant Social Media Profiles

Do you address the right person? I.e. hiring manager in the company / your future direct supervisor

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention 2-3 of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?

Do you successfully convey that you’re the right pro for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements?
• Did you successfully convey how your experiences help you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

• Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
• Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you finalize the conclusion with a call to action?

Did you use the right formal closure for the cover letter?

5+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Read on to learn about some of the best cover letter examples we’ve seen (for different fields).

College Student Cover Letter Example

Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Career Change Cover Letter Example

Management Cover Letter Example

Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Want to discover more examples AND learn what makes them stand out? Check out our guide to cover letter examples .

Next Steps in Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application is for naught. 

After all, a cover letter is just an introduction. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression, but flopping at the end because of a mediocre resume.

...But don’t you worry, we’ve got you covered on that end, too.

If you want to learn more about Resumes & CVs, we have a dedicated FREE guide for that. Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume , as well as how to write a CV - our experts will teach you everything you need to know in order to land your dream job.

Or, if you’re already an expert, just pick one of our resume templates and get started.

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that convinces the hiring manager of your competence
• A cover letter goes in your job application alongside your resume
• Your introduction to the cover letter should grab the hiring manager’s attention and keep it all the way until the conclusion
• There are 2 main topics you need to include in your cover letter: why you’re the perfect candidate for the job & why you’re passionate about working in the company you’re applying to
• Most of the content of your cover letter should be factual , without any fluff or generalizations

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve, every step of the way! Follow our blog to stay up to date with the industry-leading advice. Or, check out some of our top guides…

• How to Write a Motivational Letter
• How to Write a Resume with No Work Experience
• Most Common Interview Questions and Answers

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Resume vs Cover Letter: How...

Resume vs Cover Letter: How They're Different

8 min read · Updated on January 25, 2024

Knowing how a resume and cover letter work together can increase your chances of standing out

A resume and cover letter are essential job marketing tools that allow you to grab the attention of prospective employers and make a solid first impression. Where a resume provides an objective and concise overview of your work history, knowledge, skills, and overall qualifications, a cover letter formally introduces you to the employer and summarizes your work experiences related to your resume. It also discusses why you're interested in the position and why you're a suitable candidate. 

These two complementary documents are similar in a few ways and very different in others. In this post, we'll cover the following to provide clarity around cover letters vs resumes:

Cover letter vs resume: what are the similarities?

Cover letter vs resume: what are the differences?

What can a cover letter convey that a resume can't?

What's the difference between a cover letter, a resume, and an application letter? 

Cover letter vs resume: what are the similarities? 

As noted, a cover letter and resume are both career marketing tools, provided to prospective employers, that give the opportunity to make a strong first impression. Here are a few additional similarities between the two:

Both are meant to sell your skills and experience to entice employers to bring you in for an interview

The heading and contact information provided in a cover letter should match what's provided in a resume

When both a cover letter and resume are submitted as part of a job application, they're submitted together

Each document should use a similar style in terms of colors, font type , and font size to provide a cohesive package

Both documents should be tailored to each job you apply to

Both your cover letter and resume should include keywords from the job description.

These few points are where the similarities between a cover letter and a resume end. 

When considering a cover letter vs resume, there are five significant differences between them. They are

Layout and structure

Tonality , tense and orientation.

A resume is a requirement and necessity for virtually all job applications. A cover letter, on the other hand, is highly recommended but isn't necessarily required unless the job application specifically requests the inclusion of a cover letter. It's also possible to come across some job postings that specifically ask you not to include a cover letter. If you come across such an instance, even if you're tempted, don't include it unless you want to risk immediately going into the “no” pile. 

Unless specifically asked not to, in most instances it's in your best interest to include a cover letter with your resume. It shows you care about the position and can help to make your application stand out from the competition. 

The purpose of a resume is to provide the employer with a concise overview of your relevant work history, skills, and other qualifications. It focuses on your past and how it applies to your potential to succeed in a new job. 

Your cover letter should focus only on the job you're applying to - it serves as an introduction to you and your resume. With your cover letter, you have the opportunity to showcase a bit of your personality, further summarize your resume, and emphasize why you're interested in, and the right fit for, the job. 

In a nutshell, a resume shows the employer how your experience fits the role and a cover letter tells them why it does. 

Another main difference between a cover letter vs resume is the layout and structure of each. A resume typically uses bullet points without paragraphs or large chunks of text. There are also standard resume formats to choose from. A cover letter is written in paragraph form, with a layout similar to any professional business letter you might write.

Resume layout and structure

A resume uses one of three resume formats - reverse chronological, functional, or hybrid - with specific sections that are required within each format. The most commonly used is the chronological format, which includes the following sections:

Contact Information

Resume Headline

Resume Summary

Core Competencies

Work Experience 

Additional optional sections sometimes included on a resume are IT Skills, Volunteer Experience, Special Projects, Certifications, Training, Awards, Publications, and Hobbies & Interests. 

For more tips on how to write an effective resume with several resume examples to review, refer to “ How to Make a Resume: Beginner's Writing Guide with Examples .”

Cover letter layout and structure

A cover letter ranges from 300 to 500 words and should be written using the same format as any professional business letter. The key sections of a cover letter include:

The header with the date, the employer's address, and your contact information

A salutation directed to a specific individual when possible

An introduction paragraph where you introduce yourself, share why you're interested, and emphasize why you're an ideal candidate

The body paragraphs - the most crucial section of your cover letter - where you summarize your qualifications and how they make you an ideal candidate to meet the job requirements and demands, in one to two paragraphs

A conclusion paragraph , where you'll conclude with appreciation and a call to action

The closing , with a professional closing salutation and your name

For more detailed information on how to write a cover letter with a cover letter example, refer to “ How to Write a Cover Letter (With Example) .” 

Your cover letter, unlike your resume, addresses the employer directly and with a tone that's more personable than a resume. The exact tone you go with for your cover letter should reflect the industry and organization to which you're applying, though it's still good to showcase some personality. When doing so, ensure you still keep it professional and don't be too personal to the point that it distracts from the letter's overall goal and ability to leave a positive impression. 

The tone of a resume is straightforward and objective. It offers the reader specific details about your past work history, key qualifications, and skills. 

A resume is mostly past-oriented, meaning that it focuses largely on your past work history and experiences. Much of a resume is written in the past tense, as well. 

A cover letter is written primarily in the present tense. The focus of a cover letter is more on the present and future, including mentioning current and future objectives. 

What can a cover letter explain that a resume cannot?

As noted, where a resume shows how you're a good fit for the job, a cover letter can discuss why you're a good fit. Also, a cover letter can explain details about your resume that you might not have had space for on the resume. For example, if you listed a work experience bullet point with a great accomplishment, yet you weren't able to highlight the challenges you overcame for that significant achievement, that might be something to include in the cover letter if it adds value and is relevant. 

Cover letter vs resume vs application letter

In addition to a cover letter and resume being part of your arsenal of career marketing tools, you might also be wondering where an application letter fits in - especially since some confuse an application letter with a cover letter. 

What is the difference between a resume and an application letter?

As mentioned, a resume is a document required for job applications and provides a succinct overview of your work history and credentials. An application letter provides a detailed overview of your work history and credentials in a letter format and is typically not used in conjunction with a resume.

What is the difference between a cover letter and an application letter?

Though a cover letter and application letter share similar features, they're different in content and purpose. A cover letter complements a resume and provides an introduction to yourself and an overview as to why your qualifications make you a good fit for the job. It's sent with the resume as part of the application process. 

An application letter is more detailed and dives deeper into an applicant's work history and qualifications. It's common to send an application letter to an employer of interest, even if they don't have any job openings at the time. In other words, it's sent outside of the application process and often expresses interest in working for the organization. 

The structure is similar to a cover letter, because they're both professional business letters. However, since the intent of a cover letter and application letter differs, the content focus is different between the two. 

Cover letter vs resume: yes, you need both (with rare exceptions)

Now you know the similarities and differences between a cover letter vs resume and the purpose of each. You also know that, in most instances, it's best to submit a cover letter with your resume when applying for jobs. Including both helps you to set yourself apart from others in a tough job market and make a positive first impression on hiring teams! 

Wondering if your resume and cover letter complement each other the way they should? Our team of TopResume experts can help you to ensure that both showcase the correct elements to help you land the interviews you desire. You can even submit your resume for a free review   to get started!

Recommended reading: 

How to List Certifications on a Resume (with Examples)

How to Start a Cover Letter that Grabs Attention

How to Include Relevant Coursework on a Resume (with Examples)

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

See how your resume stacks up.

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What is a Cover Letter for a Resume?

Understanding the Numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

Think about adding a shot of espresso to your favorite coffee beverage. Coffee purists may insist that a hot, black cup o’ joe is the only worthwhile option. When done correctly, though, the added espresso packs a powerful punch.

The same concept applies to adding a cover letter to your resume. It’s a boost to complement an already solid product (i.e., the experience on your resume) with a little bit of oomph. The cover letter is more or less a short, autobiographical professional story that accompanies your resume in your application.

What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter for a Resume?

In the cover letter, you can share fortified examples with a hiring manager about who you are, what you can do and why you’re the most interesting and interested job candidate. This is typically achieved in two to four paragraphs and strictly limited to one page or less. A cover letter can also build a bridge between your resume and the job description.

A debated topic in the hiring world is whether busy recruiters take the time to read applicants’ carefully crafted cover letters. A recent Fishbowl by Glassdoor survey reported 58% of workers say cover letters are unnecessary. Other sources, including job search coach Lynda Spiegel, mention how AI-powered Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) used by hiring teams may rank your application higher among the competition if you upload that supplemental cover letter document.

The recruiters and hiring managers who do read cover letters in full often find them helpful in getting to know a candidate as a viable fit for the open position and company culture .

What Do I Write in a Cover Letter?

Now that we understand what the purpose of a cover letter is for a resume, what should you include in a cover letter?

First, understand that the cover letter should not be a regurgitation of points already included on your resume. Let your resume speak for itself, and use the cover letter to focus on highlighting your personality and targeted examples of your interests and successes.

Convince yourself you are perfect for the opportunity. Then, craft your writing to subtly guide the hiring team to the conclusion that they would be remiss to pass up interviewing you.

Before you get started, ask yourself a few questions:

• How well did you read and understand the job description? Think about what inspired you about the job before you selected “Apply Now.” Pick some key items where you can provide actual examples of your past experiences that relate to the listed job duties and responsibilities. A more impactful impression is possible if you reference select words from the job description within your cover letter.
• What are the mission and values of the company? Every organization should have a purpose or goal, whether it’s to make the most money or to change the most lives. There could also be a significant part of the company’s history or current industry news relevance that piqued your interest. Do a bit of research to set yourself up for success and customize your cover letter content to showcase where your passions match with those of the organization.
• Why are you writing the cover letter? Map out a few select reasons why you’re the ideal match for the role and plan to highlight the best options for the cover letter.

Not all application processes require the same documentation. Pay attention when the job description tells you not to include a cover letter. Including one anyway when they specified not could unintentionally seem like you lack attention to detail.

If including a cover letter is optional, it’s a good idea to submit one. It may help you stand out as a job candidate and help your application rank higher if the organization uses ATS software.

When you do need to include one, Follow the tips below to help your cover letter best represent the best applicant — you!

What are the 5 Parts of a Cover Letter?

To steal the attention of the hiring team, every great heist starts with a well-laid-out plan. This outline explains the tried-and-true formula of a cover letter to stake your job claim:

Let the hiring team know who you are and how to contact you:

• Professional email address
• Phone number
• City and state (you do not need to include your full address)
• Social media profiles relevant to the role (for example: LinkedIn, GitHub, Blogger)

Second, enter the date under your contact information so the team understands the immediacy of your application and interest.

Finally, the header should specify to whom you are writing so the letter finds its way to the right inbox:

• Name of the hiring manager
• Professional title of the hiring manager
• Company name
• Company address

If you’re not provided with a specific name, search LinkedIn by company and title or review the Staff Directory on the company’s website to locate a contact that may influence the final hiring decision.

If you’re still not sure, you can exclude the hiring manager’s name and jump straight to a professional title or the company name and address instead.

2. Greeting

Professionally address the hiring manager by name or by title.

If your staff sleuthing skills serve unsuccessful in finding the exact name of the hiring manager, you may also reference a generic title in the greeting, such as “Dear [Department] Hiring Manager,” to get your message across.

Toss out antiquated greetings used in the past, like “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir or Madam,” and personalize your greeting as much as professionally possible for the reader.

Greeting Example

Taylor Jones Austin, TX • 555-555-5555 • [email protected] NOTE: Copy / paste name and contact info directly from your resume so it matches

April 10, 2023

Ms. Erica Jones (optional if you can find this) Senior Vice President, Sales Development (optional if you can find this) ABC Company 123 Career Lane Cold Springs, AZ, 12345

Dear [Hiring Manager Name]: (if available), OR Dear [Department] Hiring Manager:

3. Introduction

Captivate the reader immediately. Weave together relevant professional skills and listed job requirements to lead with an enticing statement.

The introduction of a cover letter shares two to four sentences to explain your interest in the role while setting the stage for what is to come. Promote one or two of your impressive skills or specific knowledge as it relates to the position and grab the hiring manager’s attention.

You can start with a measurable example from your prior experience supported by a reflection of the job description. Then, finish with a question or statement that engages the curiosity of the hiring manager to further explore your professional story.

Introduction Example

From your job description listed on the Handshake job platform, I understand your next Director will be able to ‘meet or exceed established sales goals in a collaborative environment.’ I inspired and led a team of sales representatives who repeatedly surpassed annual profit projections as a regional manager with LMNOP Corporation. How could my team-focused sales management style benefit the overall operations of your organization?

Reinforce how the needs and values of the employer are mirrored by key examples of your past experiences.

Bolster your prior introduction statement with one or two additional stories or examples in the body paragraph to echo your past and potential future contributions. Relate keywords from the earlier company research you conducted and tie in requirements of the job description to explain your case for candidacy. Employment gaps or career transitions may also be addressed in the body paragraphs of the cover letter.

Body Example

Aligned with your company’s values, a Drive for Results was always a focus in my past sales positions. As I progressed through the quarterly campaigns at LMNOP Corporation in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment, I was able to adjust my tactics and use available performance metrics to continually motivate my team and further improve outcomes. I also found these skills especially relevant in my time as a stay-at-home mom of three young children from December 2021 through January 2023, where careful and intentional negotiation skills proved relevant in finding agreeable solutions to everyday challenges.

Express your gratitude and hint at the next steps of the process.

Wrap up your cover letter story with a closing that positions the reader to respond. Be sure to mention an appreciation of their time and attention while also reiterating your interest in being included in the next stages of consideration.

Don’t forget to sign with an outgoing pleasantry and your name.

Closing Example

Thank you for taking the time to review my qualifications and interest. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you further about how my experience and skills could positively impact the team at ABC Company as your future Director of Sales.

Ready to Write Your Cover Letter?

Customizing your cover letter for each opportunity will be your key to unlocking the genuine interest of the hiring manager. It will also help to deliver your authentic tone and honest intentions of working for the organization.

Lean on family, friends or others who know you best to read through your cover letter draft and provide constructive feedback. You could also consult with a local workforce development office or the Career Services department at your school or university for professional support.

Overall, trust in yourself and your experience and let your accomplishments shine.

You’ve got this!

Is There an Express Version of What to Include in a Cover Letter?

Your newfound cover letter knowledge will be an important resource in your lifetime career journey. The need to write about your relevant professional story could come up at any time for a part-time job, an internal promotion to management or even that dream job just waiting for you in the days, months or years ahead.

Below is a helpful acronym to keep as your blueprint along the way:

• C onduct research about the position and the company
• O mit details that stray from job-relevant professional or personal experience
• V alidate specific bullets on your resume with fortified examples, but don’t simply repeat the same information
• E ngage the reader from the start with an enticing introduction
• R espond in the body to listed job qualifications by using creative storytelling

[Take a breather and come back later with a refreshed set of eyes to continue writing]

• L everage the company mission and values to reflect your own knowledge and skills
• E xplain gaps in employment or career transitions more clearly and effectively
• T rust in yourself and be confident in your experience
• T hank the hiring manager for reviewing your cover letter and application
• E xpress your interest in the next steps of the recruitment process
• R emember to consult helpful resources for review and feedback before submitting the cover letter with your application

Online. On campus. Choose your program  from 200+ SNHU degrees that can take you where you want to go.

Dana McGrath is an employer relations partner with Southern New Hampshire University Career Services. She began her SNHU career journey as an admission counselor and was promoted in 2021 to her current role, where she meets and collaborates with external recruiting contacts interested in hiring talent from SNHU online programs.

McGrath holds a BA in Communication Media Studies. She has varied roles scattered throughout her professional story and understands the importance of using a cover letter to highlight her authentic personality and writing skills while also tactfully explaining employment gaps and job transitions. Connect with McGrath on LinkedIn .

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Founded in 1932, and online since 1995, we’ve helped countless students reach their goals with flexible, career-focused programs . Our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH is home to over 3,000 students, and we serve over 135,000 students online. Visit our about SNHU  page to learn more about our mission, accreditations, leadership team, national recognitions and awards.

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What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?

To get the job you want, you need to stand out among lots of other applicants. While your resume is the first step in making a good impression, a well-written cover letter can actually help you seal the deal.

Table of Contents

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document that you submit together with your resume when applying for a job. It’s basically a condensed professional introduction that aims to “sell” you as the best candidate for the job.

In short, a cover letter gives you a chance to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and explain why you believe you would do great in this position and benefit the company.

A cover letter should complement your resume — but not repeat the same information. The main purpose of a cover letter is to highlight your most important and relevant skills and add a personal touch to the application.

Do you need both a cover letter and a resume?

In most cases, a job application should include both a resume and cover letter — unless there are specific instructions that say otherwise in the job description. While hiring managers may not have the time to read through all the cover letters they receive, they will definitely read the cover letters of their selected candidates.

Plus, if the hiring manager is on the fence when choosing between two candidates, the cover letters may actually tip the scale in someone’s favor.

How do I write a cover letter for my resume?

A cover letter should be centered around your best professional qualities, achievements and experience. Only the information that you believe will make you stand out among other candidates should make it into your cover letter. How long should a cover letter be? A cover letter shouldn’t be more than one page — typically, 250 to 400 words long.

Most cover letters will have the following parts: a header, a greeting, an opener/introduction, the main body and a call to action.

Let’s look at these in a bit more detail.

This is the easiest section of your cover letter. Here, you should include the following information:

• Your full name and relevant professional credentials.
• Your location: city, state or country (optional).
• The way in which you prefer to be contacted: phone or email.
• A link to your professional networks or online portfolio (optional).

Introduction

The purpose of this section is to get the HR manager “hooked” on reading the rest of your application. Focus on your most standout features as a professional and explain why you believe that you are the perfect candidate for the position.

In the main body of your cover letter, add more supporting arguments for why you are the best choice for the job. Mention that you are well aware of all the responsibilities that come with the position and that you are fully equipped to handle them. Support this claim with specific facts and examples: these can be your accomplishments in previous workplaces, a particular set of skills, certification, etc.

Call to action

End your cover letter with a call to action — what would you like to happen next? You can mention when you will be available to start the new job (if selected) and ask for feedback on your application. It’s always a good idea to thank the HR manager for their time at the end of your cover letter.

Tips for writing an effective cover letter

There are a few simple rules to follow when composing your cover letter.

• Personalize your letter . Having a one-fit-all cover letter and sending it unchanged to different companies is a very bad idea. The main purpose of your cover letter is to convince the hiring manager that you are the perfect candidate for this specific job. If your cover letter is too general and doesn’t mention any specific information, it simply defies its own purpose. Plus, it’s very easy for the HR manager to spot a generic cover letter. This is why it is very important to customize your cover letter to the job you are applying for.
• Explain why you want the job . A cover letter offers you a unique opportunity to be more personal and tell the hiring manager why you are passionate about the job — something you can’t really do in a resume. Your motivation and enthusiasm about working for the company can be a very convincing factor for the HR manager to prioritize you over other applicants.
• Keep it short . Short cover letters tend to be more effective than long ones. This is often the case because hiring managers have a very limited time to spend on your application. Thus, a concise cover letter highlighting your most prominent professional achievements is the best way to go.
• Do your research . As we’ve mentioned right at the beginning, personalizing your cover letter is one of the keys to its success. To customize your letter, do some research on the company you are applying for, learn about its culture, mission, values and more. This can help make your application more “relatable” to the person reading it and make you a good fit for the company in their eyes.
• Fill your cover letter with facts and statistics . Avoid generalities in your letter. As it’s best to keep your cover letter short, use this space carefully. Include the information that would cause the most impact: numbers, professional achievements, awards, certificates and more.
• Fill the gaps in your resume . If there are things in your resume that you feel need explaining, the cover letter can be a great place to do that. For instance, if you’ve spent some time out of official employment, you can mention in your cover letter that, for instance, you worked freelance during that time.

Cover letter sample

Learn more about how to write a cover letter .

Should I put my cover letter or resume first?

Most employers will start by reading your resume — or, at least, by scanning through it. This will give them an idea about whether you have the needed qualifications for work in the role you’re applying for — and this is especially true in technical fields that you require a specific set of hard skills.

While HR professionals will generally read the resume first, if they are interested in the candidate, they will definitely go on to read the cover letter. And, if there is a choice to be made between several candidates with similar qualifications, a cover letter may actually play a decisive role in the final choice.

Learn more about how to write a resume .

Letter of interest vs. cover letter

The term cover letters is often used interchangeably with letters of interest. However, there is a difference.

A letter of interest indicates your desire to work for a specific company — but it doesn’t have to be sent to an open job offer. There may actually be no vacancies in the company you are sending the letter to at the time — but you want your candidacy to be considered if a position opens up. A cover letter, on the other hand, generally accompanies your CV in response to a specific job offer.

Learn more about cover letters and letters of interest in our post: Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter: Difference, Tips and Examples .

Modern cover letter formats — a video letter

While standard cover letters are sent out as documents, there are also new cover letter formats emerging that can make your application even more personal. A video cover letter is one of such formats.  The primary aim of the video cover letter is the same as of a standard cover letter — to introduce yourself and make your case as the best choice for the job. The video format makes the letter much more personal and gives your potential employer a chance to get to know you even better.

Summing things up

• Most job applications these days need to include both a resume and a cover letter.
• The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself and make your application stand out.
• Your cover letter should be brief, memorable and highlight your most relevant skills and experience.
• Use as much specific information as possible: include numbers, professional accomplishments, relevant certification, examples from your previous work, etc.
• Customize your cover letter for any new company and position you are applying for.
• To make your cover letter more personal, consider using a video format.

We hope that you have found some useful tips for composing your cover letter in today’s post. Happy job hunting!

How To Write a Cover Letter With Examples

Cover letters can help differentiate you from other job applicants and be the determining factor of landing your dream job. By taking the time to craft a custom cover letter, a single sheet of paper can help communicate all the human elements that a resume may fall short of capturing about yourself. 

But what do employers and recruiters have to say about how to write a cover letter? What are the best tips they have to offer for graduate students who are writing a cover letter?

We asked 11 employers for their best cover letter tips. Here is what they had to share.

Let it Set the Stage

In many ways, cover letters should provide background information and context to your resume, while simultaneously addressing how that resume addresses the specific requirements of the job opportunity. The cover letter is your opportunity to "set the stage" and to convince the hiring manager why your specific set of skills, experiences and interests will provide value to their team and its objectives.

Andrew Horrigan '11 BSBA (Management Information Systems), Product Manager at Cisco

Research the Hiring Manager

If possible, find out who the hiring manager is and look them up on LinkedIn. Do your research on the company you're applying for. What's their mission statement and how do they portray their company culture? Hopefully what you're looking for in a job is reflected by those things. Make sure the hiring manager knows that and understands who you are and what drives you. A resume is often about as robotic as things can be. Make sure your cover letter is the opposite—personalize it and let yourself shine through.

Joshua Schlag ’05 BS (Computer Science) ’11 MBA, Digital Marketing Manager at Pyramid Analytics

Utilize Career Development Resources

The University of Arizona and Eller College of Management go to great lengths to make sure students are prepared for their impending career journey. Because cover letters are so important to getting your foot in the door, there are several career development resources online and on campus to take advantage of. The university’s cover letter builder serves as a nice template to get started. And of course, it never hurts to make an appointment with an Eller Career Coach through eSMS to have a professional review your letter before submission. 

Brett Farmiloe, ’06 BSBA (Accounting), Founder, Featured

Discover Past Samples of the Position

Do your research on the company and personalize your cover letter to the role for which you are applying. Don't be afraid to Google, "How to write a good cover letter for X position." Seriously, it helps! There is so much information out there from various perspectives—applicants, hiring managers, etc. Most importantly be yourself and let your personality come through. And don't forget to spell check!

Mariam Nikola '17 MS MIS, Consultant at Point B

Highlight Your Soft Skills

When writing a professional cover letter, there are a couple things you can do to set yourself apart from the pack. First, make sure you tailor your letter to the specific position you are applying for. This should not be a general, "one size fits all" letter—be sure to discuss specific details surrounding the role or the company itself. Secondly, this is an opportunity for you to show a little bit of your personality. Obviously, you want to remain professional, but this is a great time to highlight some of your soft skills that might not be fully conveyed through your resume.  

Brian Ellis ’17 BSBA (Management), Staffing Manager at Randstad Office and Administrative Professionals

Fill in the “Why” Gaps

As a talent advisor, I review a lot of applicants and agree that a cover letter can be a great way to stand apart, if it is done correctly. A great cover letter for me covers the ‘why’ that I cannot understand from just a resume alone. It should clearly state why you are interested in the role, what your goals are for utilizing your graduate degree (if recently graduated) and explain any career pivots reflected on your resume. If you answer those questions in a direct, concise manner it will add value to your application.

Monica Larson , ’11 BSBA (Marketing) ‘20 MBA, Talent Advisor

Tell Your Story

A cover letter is your opportunity to tell your story—tying your experience and personal interests into why you want a position and why you are the best candidate for it. Paint the picture of your journey and what about the position excites you personally and professionally. Similar to your resume, keep it short and sweet. No need to repeat what’s already on your resume. Recruiters and hiring managers don’t have time to comb through a novel, so you need to engage them with as few words as possible while also grabbing their attention.

Kelly Castoro, ’06 BA (Spanish, Portuguese), Project Manager at Squarespace

Tailor Each Cover Letter to the Position You Are Applying

Be sure to research the role and customize your cover letter for each position, relating your experience to the particular role you are applying for. Personalization is key—research who you are sending the cover letter to and address the letter to them directly. End your letter with a call to action, stating you will follow up by phone or email if you haven’t heard from anyone. Follow ups are very important! 

Jessica Rosenzweig, ’15 BSBA (Business Management), Account Manager at PeopleWare Staffing

Communicate Bankability and Personality 

Your cover letter answers two crucial questions; are you bankable and are you someone the company will enjoy working with? Communicate bankability with your knowledge of the company, industry and why your skills, capabilities and interests are a great fit. Share your passion for their mission, culture, brand—whatever excites you about becoming a member of their team.  

When conveyed through a concise, well-formulated, well-worded cover letter, you demonstrate the ability to write an effective business case—communicating that you are a ready professional and worthy teammate who will hit the ground running.

Theresa L Garcia, ’83 BSBA (Human Resources), Senior Change Management and Organization Capability Consultant at Boeing

Keep it Concise but Compelling

A cover letter is your chance to speak directly to the hiring team and tell them why you are not only the best match for the position for which you are applying but also give them additional insight into yourself as an individual that is less visible from your experience.

A great cover letter should be attention grabbing and touch upon the qualities that make you stand out from others in the applicant pool, highlight both your recent and most distinguished accomplishments and drive home why you are the right person for the job. Professionalism is always important, but don’t be hesitant to put your voice into the letter to let your personality shine through. Research the company, understand where they currently are, where they are going and show why you are the right person to get them from point A to point B. Recruiters spend a lot of time reviewing applicants and making yourself stand apart from the crowd is key. Keep it concise but compelling!

Matt Reineberg, ’14 BSBA (Marketing), Senior Talent Acquisition Sourcer at Cox Enterprises

Highlight the “Why”

Why are you applying to this company? Why do you want this position? Your cover letter should aim to answer the why behind applying for the job. Conveying an interest and excitement for working specifically for this job at this company, rather than a desire to get any job anywhere that will give you money, can go a long way. Show the company that they should hire you and your passion over someone that might have the skills needed for the job, but doesn’t care about the work as much as you do. 

Ryan Nouis, Trupath 

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