example of a good cover letter for chef

8 Professional Chef Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your chef cover letter must immediately highlight your passion for food and cooking. It should convey your creativity and dedication to culinary arts right from the start. Emphasize your experience in the kitchen, showcasing the variety of cuisines you're proficient in. Let your expertise in menu development and commitment to quality shine through every line.

All cover letter examples in this guide

Entry Level Chef

Kitchen Manager

Executive Chef

Pastry Chef

Cover letter guide.

Chef Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Chef Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Embarking on your culinary career journey, you’ve likely hit the stumbling block of writing a chef cover letter that garners attention. Clutching your resume, you realize that a compelling cover letter is your chance to flaunt that one proud professional milestone without echoing the resume verbatim. Crafting this blend of formality and personal flair, while ditching the worn-out clichés in a concise one-page narrative, can prove daunting—but fear not, as this guide will whisk you through the process with chef-like finesse.

• Introduce your profile to catch recruiters' attention;
• Use professional templates and examples to make sure your chef cover letter follows the best industry standards;
• Settle on your most story-worthy achievement to shine a light on what makes your application unique;
• Write a chef cover letter, even when you lack professional experience.

Ready to start with the basics: upload your resume to Enhancv's AI, below, to see the chef cover letter it would write for you.

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

• Chef resume guide and example
• High Volume Bartender cover letter example
• Server cover letter example
• Barback cover letter example
• Lead Server cover letter example
• Front of House Manager cover letter example
• Waiter cover letter example
• Restaurant Manager cover letter example
• Banquet Bartender cover letter example
• Starbucks cover letter example
• Assistant Restaurant Manager cover letter example

Chef cover letter example

Christian Torres

Denver, Colorado

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Demonstrating alignment with the company's values - Mentioning a shared commitment to culinary innovation and sustainable practices shows that the applicant has done their research and is a good cultural fit for the restaurant.
• Quantifying achievements - The applicant provides specific percentages to showcase past successes, such as spearheading a 25% increase in diner satisfaction and reducing food costs by 15%, which gives measurable evidence of their skills and impact.
• Relevant experience - Discussing previous roles and achievements related to menu development and cost management directly corresponds to key responsibilities of an executive chef, showing that the applicant has the necessary background and expertise.

What about your chef cover letter format: organizing and structuring your information

Here is one secret you should know about your chef cover letter assessment. The Applicant Tracker System (or ATS) won't analyze your cover letter.

You should thus focus on making an excellent impression on recruiters by writing consistent:

• Introduction
• Body paragraphs (and explanation)
• Promise or Call to action
• Signature (that's optional)

Now, let's talk about the design of your chef cover letter.

Ensure all of your paragraphs are single-spaced and have a one-inch margins on all sides (like in our cover letter templates ).

Also, our cover letter builder automatically takes care of the format and comes along with some of the most popular (and modern) fonts like Volkhov, Chivo, and Bitter.

Speaking of fonts, professionals advise you to keep your chef cover letter and resume in the same typography and avoid the over-used Arial or Times New Roman.

When wondering whether you should submit your chef cover letter in Doc or PDF, select the second, as PDF keeps all of your information and design consistent.

The top sections on a chef cover letter

• Header: The header should include the chef's name, contact information, and the date, providing a professional appearance and making it easy for the recruiter to reach out for an interview.
• Greeting: The greeting should address the restaurant owner or head chef by name if possible, showing the applicant has done their research and is truly interested in the position at their specific establishment.
• Introduction: The introduction must grab the reader's attention by succinctly showcasing the chef's passion for cooking and their eagerness to contribute to the culinary team, setting the tone for the rest of the letter.
• Professional Experience and Skills: This section should highlight the chef's key achievements, special dishes or cuisines they are known for, and skills that would benefit the kitchen they're applying to, demonstrating their qualifications for the role.
• Closing: The closing should reiterate the chef's enthusiasm for the position, include a call to action inviting the recruiter to arrange an interview, and express gratitude for considering the application.

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

• Culinary expertise and creativity: Recruiters seek chefs who can craft unique, flavorful dishes and contribute to the restaurant’s menu with innovative ideas.
• Experience with diverse cuisines: A chef's ability to cook a wide range of cuisines makes them a valuable asset to a kitchen team, showing adaptability and broad culinary knowledge.
• Leadership and team management skills: The ability to lead and manage a kitchen staff effectively ensures smooth operations and can improve the overall dining experience.
• Attention to detail and quality control: Chefs must maintain high standards for food preparation, presentation, and taste, overseeing every aspect of the kitchen to ensure consistency.
• Time management and efficiency: Working in a fast-paced environment requires chefs to be efficient, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and maintain composure under pressure.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations: A thorough understanding of sanitation and safety standards is critical for maintaining a safe kitchen and adhering to legal and regulatory requirements.

How to start your chef cover letter: with a greeting, of course

Have you ever considered just how powerful a personalized salutation can be?

We sure have news for you! Your chef cover letter should start with the right salutation to recruiters, nurturing a sense of respect and individuality.

Greet recruiters by using their first name (e.g. "Dear Tom" or "Dear Patricia") if you've previously established contact with them.

Otherwise, opt out for the less familiar, "Dear Ms. Peaches" or "Dear Ms Kelsey", if you've found the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or a corporate website.

"To whom it may concern" is never a good option, as it creates a sense that you've been sending out your chef cover letter to anyone. Instead, use "Dear HR team" or "Dear (company name) recruiter" for a feeling of exclusivity.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear Chef [Last Name],
• Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
• Dear Executive Chef,
• Dear [Restaurant Name] Team,
• Dear [Restaurant Name] Hiring Committee,

Your chef cover letter introduction and the value you bring

Moving on from the "Dear Recruiter" to your professional introduction .

Use those first two sentences of your chef cover letter to present the biggest asset you'd bring to the organization.

Don't go into too much detail about your achievement or the skill set, but instead - go straight for the win.

That is - what is your value as a professional?

Would you be able to build stronger, professional relationships in any type of communication? Or, potentially, integrate seamlessly into the team?

The middle or body of your chef cover letter body: a great instrument to tell a story

Now that you've set the right tone with the greeting and introduction of your chef cover letter, it's time to get down to business .

Hear us out, the body of your chef cover letter is the best storytelling instrument you have, in your job-hunting arsenal.

Writing the next three to six paragraphs, take the time to reassess the advert to discover job-crucial requirements.

Next, choose one accomplishment that covers those key skills and talents.

Use precisely that achievement to tell an exciting story of how you match the ideal candidate profile.

In the undertones of your story or chef cover letter body, hint at the difference you'd make and sell your application as the perfect one for the job.

Finishing off your chef cover letter with what matters most

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

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

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

End your chef cover letter with the future in mind.

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

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

The zero experience chef cover letter: shifting the focus to your unique value

Don't worry if you have no conventional professional experience . Within your whole experience, there's plenty more you can write about in your chef cover letter.

Take, for example, your biggest achievement or award - dedicate your cover letter body to describe it and the job-relevant skills you've learned.

Your professional ambitions could also take center stage. Describe what you plan on achieving in the next five to ten years and the efforts you're making towards your dreams.

Key takeaways

Writing your chef cover letter has never been easier, so remember to:

• Select a chef cover letter template that automatically meets industry formatting (e.g. has one-inch margins, is single-spaced, is in PDF, etc.);
• Make your chef cover letter personal by mentioning the recruiters' first or last name;
• Within the introduction, describe what you like best about the company in no more than two sentences;
• Use your chef cover letter body to tell a story of your greatest achievement, backed up by job-relevant skills and technologies;
• If you have no professional experience, be honest about it in your chef cover letter, but also write about your unique talents.

Chef cover letter examples

Explore additional chef cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

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

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
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3 Chef Cover Letter Examples to Win the Job in 2024

• Chef Cover Letter
• Sous Chef Cover Letter
• Executive Chef Trainer Cover Letter
• Write Your Chef Cover Letter

Do you love everything culinary and strive to make each dish a work of art while staying true to the recipe? Maybe you develop new recipes between managing other cooks, ensuring that code standards are met, and creating seasonal menus.

The biggest question is how you pack all those abilities when writing a great cover letter to complement your chef resume ! What skills and points should you include to show recruiters what an artful chef you are?

Don’t worry! We’ve developed three chef cover letter examples that have led other culinary professionals to success, and this advice is bound to help you too!

Chef Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your chef cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Oakland, CA 94501 (123) 456-7890

October 10, 2023

Jackson Thompson Hawker Fare 123 Fictional Lane Oakland, CA 94501

Dear Ms. Thompson,

The passion for creating delectable Isan Thai family-style dishes and the lively atmosphere that Hawker Fare has always captivated me. Fostering culinary experiences through flavor balancing, plating and presentation, and ingredient pairing has been my focus for the past four years, and I am eager to contribute from day one as your next chef.

While working at Gogi Time, my innovative approach to pairing unique craft beers with Belgian-inspired cuisine led to a 27% improvement in customer satisfaction survey results. Utilizing kitchen software, such as ChefTec, I was able to streamline recipe development and enhance flavor consistency.

In another role at Commis, I honed my plating and presentation skills, maintaining the aesthetics of dishes without compromising taste. This led to a 14% increase in social media engagement rates. Meanwhile, I consistently used design tools, like Prepear, to help visualize and execute attractive food presentations.

At Duende, I combined Spanish ingredients to reinvigorate classic dishes. My carefully crafted Spanish tapas menu led to a 23% rise in repeat customers. Paired with KitchenCut for efficient food cost management and ingredient sourcing, I offered guests a seamless dining experience.

I am prepared to support Hawker Fare in its pursuit of delivering unforgettable taste experiences and vibrant atmospheres to patrons. I look forward to discussing my experience further. Thank you.

Aisha Patel

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Culinary Arts Diploma

Why this cover letter works

• Done with the intro, dish out real-world examples of positive impacts in previous roles (say, increasing customer satisfaction, social media buzz, or repeat patronage) stemming from industry-specific skills like flavor balancing, plating, and presentation. You can never go wrong with reinforcing these wins with real numbers.

Level up your cover letter game

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

Sous Chef Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your sous chef cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Tulsa, OK 74008 (123) 456-7890

Caleb Brown The Chalkboard Restaurant 123 Fictional Lane Tulsa, OK 74008

Dear Mr. Brown,

Deeply fascinated by the art and science of culinary creation, I invest my weekends perfecting menu planning strategies, exploring inventive recipe development, and honing my proficiency in food preparation. This isn’t merely a pastime for me—my heart finds immense joy in this artisanal craftsmanship. Now, I’m thrilled to bring this same dedication and passion to my role as a sous chef at The Chalkboard Restaurant.

In my previous role at Amelia’s Wood Fired Cuisine, menu planning was my specialty. Utilizing software tools like Spoonacular for meal planning and analysis, I rewrote the menu to include diverse flavors while maintaining a cohesive theme. The new menu, alongside the regular promotions, fostered a 29.8% increase in footfall and a 17.2% increase in overall revenues.

A tenure at Torero Bar and Kitchen sharpened my recipe development prowess. I innovated a range of unique dishes that interleaved traditional and modern cooking methods, culminating in a 22.7% increase in returning customers. Utilizing applications like Plan to Eat for recipe organization and scaling ensured consistency and quality across all dishes.

Another crucial aspect of my expertise lies in food preparation at Juniper Restaurant. We boasted about our farm-to-table offerings, and I handled the sourcing, processing, and preparation of many fresh ingredients. Using KEXY for streamlined food preparation helped reduce waste by 14.1% and increase efficiency by 19.2%.

With extensive kitchen experience, I am confident in my ability to enrich your kitchen team. At the Chalkboard Restaurant, I look forward to further developing my passion for culinary arts and contributing to your establishment’s stellar reputation. Looking forward to our conversation. Thank you.

Juan Garcia

• Amplify your sous chef cover letter to focus on a few skills the job demands, complementing them with measurable outcomes. The ability to optimize processes using pertinent software like KEXY and Spooncular could be the competitive edge you never knew your piece needed.

Executive Chef Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your executive chef cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Portland, OR 97035 (123) 456-7890

Ethan Davis Bluehour 123 Fictional Lane Portland, OR 97035

Dear Mr. Davis,

Inspired by the ambitious beginnings of Bluehour in Portland’s historic Pearl District and its artful approach to cuisine, my journey in the culinary arena has been a story of passion. As an executive chef with profound expertise in Sous Vide Cooking, Fermentation, Pickling, and more, I’m eager to contribute to your mission of creating exquisite culinary experiences in Portland, OR.

In the celebrated Le Pigeon, my affinity for sous vide cooking stirred an appetizing evolution within the menu. Leveraging precise, temperature-controlled immersion circulators, I introduced new sous-vide dishes that increased our diner retention by 27.8% and overall sales by 26.3%.

My interest in fermentation and pickling blossomed at the urban winery ENSO Winery. Using comprehensive software like FermentAble for monitored fermentation, I developed an array of addictive nibbles, which skyrocketed on-premise wine sales by 19.7% and contributed to a surge in repeat customers by 24.2%.

Furthermore, my expertise in charcuterie crafting was honed at Laurelhurst Market, a known steakhouse and butcher shop. Paying attention to each step—from curing and aging to presentation—I crafted a dynamic charcuterie board offering that increased evening foot traffic by 23.3% and improved overall customer contentment by 27%.

Beyond the technical art, the heart of any successful kitchen lies in fostering a nurturing environment for guests and staff. This became our mantra at Toro Bravo, where the team’s sense of community and collaboration led to a fruitful harvest. The streamlined internal operations resulted in efficiency skyrocketing by 17.1%, while our efforts in customer indulgence drifted to an all-time high of 22.9%.

I am thrilled to bring my distinct palate, creativity, and commitment to quality to Bluehour. As a fervent advocate for avant-garde culinary experience, I’m eager to match your commitment to inspired cuisine and impeccable service. I appreciate your consideration and welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can enrich Bluehour’s culinary journey.

Isabella Rossi

• Concrete examples of your significant successes (think improved wine sales, customer retention, and efficiency) stemming from your culinary and managerial prowess excel in “spicing” your piece with formidable proof of your competence.

Related cover letter examples

• Chef resume

How to Write Your Chef Cover Letter to Perfection

What’s cooking, exactly? You want to tailor your cover letter to the job description , so don’t focus too much on wine pairings if you’re applying to a country-style steakhouse.

When creating a cover letter , you’ll want to switch out keywords, mission statements, and work experience details so that everything jives with the establishment you’re writing to. Show what a perfect fit you already are!

Writing your personalized greeting and intro

Just as you know the name of each signature dish at your restaurant by heart, you’ll need to address your letter’s recipient by name! Research and see if you can find their details in the original job ad or on the company website.

A great opening paragraph works like an appetizer, giving your potential employer a taste of what you can do and whetting their appetite for so much more! Hook your audience by stating that you’re a great fit for the job and sprinkling in a few traits that show why.

It’s also ideal to connect with the company to show that you care about those final garnishes. What kinds of little objectives and values do you connect with? Do they have any notable obstacles in their restaurant’s history that you can relate to?

Don’t use an opener like this—even if the enthusiasm is there, we’re still missing professionalism and solid examples of compatibility with the company:

I’m excited to work at your restaurant as the chef because I love food, I eat lots of food, and I’ve made lots of food.

Alternatively, personal enthusiasm for the job role pairs way better with specific company references, some skills, and a good hook:

Inspired by the ambitious beginnings of Bluehour in Portland’s historic Pearl District and its artful approach to cuisine, my journey in the culinary arena has been a story of passion. As an executive chef with profound expertise in Sous Vide Cooking, Fermentation, Pickling, and more, I’m eager to contribute to your mission of creating exquisite culinary experiences in Portland, OR.

Writing your ideal body paragraphs

Now that you’ve laid a sweet intro on the table, it’s time to share some examples of your qualifications. When did you revolutionize profits with your creative new seasonal dish? How did you ensure customer satisfaction with your service and customization skills?

And we’ll need some numbers on the side, please! Provide quantifiable data showing your ability to work skillfully and yield measurable results. Metrics take your credibility as a chef from good to great!

Make sure you adjust your paragraphs to complement each job you apply to. Each paragraph should have one main point, which should come with a metric supporting your qualifications and desire to work at that restaurant.

Example of a well-balanced body paragraph

In my previous role at Amelia’s Wood Fired Cuisine, menu planning was my specialty. Utilizing software tools like Spoonacular for meal planning and analysis, I rewrote the menu to include diverse flavors while maintaining a cohesive theme. The new menu, alongside the regular promotions, fostered a 29.8% increase in footfall and a 17.2% increase in overall revenues.

Closing off and signing your cover letter

Just like the final garnish or secret seasoning that just makes a dish exquisite, you’ll need a delightful closing paragraph to top off your cover letter. Summarize once again how your skills qualify you for the job and express your enthusiasm for the role.

Highlight the way your prowess as a chef aligns with the company’s values, and whip out an effective call to action: You want your reader to contact you for “seconds” that give even more details on how you mesh with the company culture and job requirements.

And make sure you include a thank-you! You can work this into your closer, or you can use it as your professional signature. If you thank the reader for their time in your closing paragraph, just use a professional signoff and your real name.

Don’t be vague, avoid using nicknames, and put in more effort than we’re seeing in this closer:

So as you can see from my experiences I’m a really good chef and I’m great with culinary arts. I want to work for your company. I’ll talk to you later,

Instead, try a closer like this one that reconnects with the company values, peppers in a few relevant skills, and includes a call to action:

Chef’s kiss!

With extensive kitchen experience, I am confident in my ability to enrich your kitchen team. At the Chalkboard Restaurant, I look forward to further developing my passion for culinary arts and contributing to your establishment’s stellar reputation. I look forward to our future conversation. Thank you.

If you didn’t have much luck finding a name to address your cover letter to in the job description or on the company site, you might need to branch out a bit! Try professional social media accounts like Facebook and LinkedIn, or see if they have a blog.

Refer again to the job description and the company website, alongside any other posts or articles you might have found while researching what defines your establishment of choice! Are they quirky and rustic? Are they all about fine dining and elegance? Whatever it is, reflect it in your cover letter!

Yes, absolutely! If you have any additional certifications like a Certified Sous Chef or Certified Culinarian , add them. On your cover letter itself, just write “Enclosures:” at the bottom and list whatever else you’re including, like your chef resume and other application materials.

• Chef cover letter examples

Landing a Chef job can be difficult in today’s job market, but a good cover letter will help you to impress recruiters and secure that all-important interview.

But of course, crafting a winning cover letter requires skill and know-how.

That’s why we have put together this step-by-step guide including 3 Chef cover letter examples, to help you write your own.

Guide contents

How to write a Chef cover letter

• What to include in a Chef cover letter

CV templates 

Chef cover letter example 1

Chef cover letter example 2

Chef cover letter example 3

These Chef cover letter examples provide you with some guidance and inspiration for writing a cover letter that gets noticed and ensures your CV will get opened.

But if you really want to master the art of writing a winning cover letter , then follow our step-by-step cove letter writing guide below.

A simple step-by-step guide to writing your very own winning cover letter.

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

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

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

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

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

Start with a friendly greeting

To build an instant connection with the recruiter reading your cover letter, start with a warm greeting.

It should be friendly but not casual – keeping it professional at all times.

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

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

How to find the contact’s name?

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

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

Identify the role you are applying for

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

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

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

Here are some examples you can use;

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

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

Highlight your suitability

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

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

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

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

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

Keep it short and sharp

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

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

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

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

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

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

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

What to include in your Chef cover letter

Your Chef cover letter will be unique to your situation, but there are certain content guidelines you should stick to for best results.

To attract and entice recruiters, stick with the following key subjects in your cover letter – adapting them to fit your profession and target jobs.

• Your professional experience – Employers will be keen to know if your experience is suitable for the job you are applying to, so provide a good summary of it in your cover letter.
• Your qualifications and education – Highlight your most relevant and high-level of qualification, especially if they are essential to the job.
• The positive impact you have made – Employers love to hear about the benefits you can bring to them, so shout about anything impressive you have done, such as saving money or improving processes.
• Your reasons for leaving – Use a few words of your cover letter to explain why you are leaving your current job and ensure you avoid any negative reasons.
• Your availability – Let recruiters know when you can start a new job . Are you immediately available, or do you have a month notice period?

To round up

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

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

Good luck with your job search!

Chef Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Chef cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Table of Contents

Chef cover letter example 1, chef cover letter example 2, chef cover letter example 3, chef cover letter writing tips.

Chefs are a key part of any restaurant’s success. They plan menus, purchase ingredients, and direct the kitchen staff to prepare meals. Chefs also ensure food is prepared and served safely.

Use these examples and tips to write a cover letter that highlights your experience and skills for a job as a chef.

I was told by Chef Michael Whitmore of the Ridgeway Resort that you’re looking for a new chef in your restaurant L’amour. With nine years of experience in the kitchen, I believe I would be an excellent addition to your team.

I started my career as a busboy in a small family establishment. I eventually worked my way up to line cook, sous chef and finally head chef, so I’m no stranger to long hours and hard labor. I really found my calling in my work, discovering a passion for food and a love of preparing dishes just right. This passion would lead me to culinary school, and I graduated with honors in 2003.

For the past nine years, I’ve been the head chef at my current place of employment, a large French fusion restaurant in Manhattan. While I’ve enjoyed it immensely, I’m now moving to Connecticut, so I’m looking for somewhere new to bring my talents, energy and enthusiasm.

I heard from Chef Whitmore that you have a few specific requirements for the job, and I’m happy to say I fulfill them all:

• I’ve been working with French menus for almost a decade, and I’ll well-versed in everything from baba au rhumto to pansette de gerzat.
• I have extensive leadership experience. I currently supervise 14 employees, and I’ve managed as many as 20 in the past. I maintain order in the kitchen by establishing a hierarchy and holding everyone accountable for their own actions.
• I adhere to all health department guidelines regarding cleanliness and sanitation. In fact, I raised the score of my current kitchen by five points between 2008-2010.

I like to think I’d be a valuable and worthwhile addition to the staff of L’amour. I’ve done my research on your restaurant, and I have the same commitment to the culinary world as professed in your mission statement. I also have the right background to help you achieve your vision of “a dining establishment where all patrons can be transported to the French countryside.” French cuisine is my life, and I look forward to a day when I can bring it to the people of Connecticut.

I’d love the opportunity to discuss my resume with you in person. I can be reached by phone or email any weekday after 2 pm. I’m also available at any hour during the weekend. Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear from you soon.

I’d like to express my interest in the Chef position you posted at your restaurant. As a fully-qualified chef with six years of experience in the kitchen, I believe I more than meet your requirements for the job.

I began my culinary career in 2005 when I entered the Nagasaki School of Japanese Cuisine. Though I spent two years making tempura and itamemono, I eventually found my calling and my passion in Thai food, so I switched my focus to khao phat kaeng khiao wan instead.

This varied background has more than prepared me for work in your Asian fusion restaurant. As you can see, I’m already quite familiar with the signature dishes of both Japan and Thailand, and I’m a quick study who can also learn the Chinese required of your chefs.

You said in your listing that you’re looking for motivated self-starters who can manage a kitchen without outside influence. Not only am I extremely capable, but I’ve also worked my way through the culinary hierarchy, starting as a dessert cook and eventually being promoted through the ranks of line cook, sous chef and assistant head chef. I know what it’s like to work every position in the kitchen, and I bring that skill and expertise to my management style.

You also expressed interest in finding someone budget-minded. In my first year at the Maison Restaurant, I reduced overhead by 10 percent. In my second year, I reduced it an additional five. I’m extremely conscious of things like food cost controls and unnecessary waste, and I understand the importance of keeping finances in mind even as you reach for the stars in terms of new dishes and exciting tastes.

Last but certainly not least, I believe in providing an outstanding experience to all patrons of my restaurant. Customer satisfaction is my number one priority. Not everyone has the time or the inclination to travel to Asia themselves, but I can certainly give them a taste of the east through my cooking. That’s my goal, and it’s the vision I try to turn into reality every night I’m behind the stove.

If any of these qualities sound like a suitable match for your restaurant, I’d love the opportunity to discuss my resume with you in person. Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear from you soon.

My goal is to work with a company that I can continue to grow with, as both a person as well as a professional. I offer true dedication to the team that I work for. I consider myself a creative thinker and a definite roll-up my sleeves employee, never considering myself too good to tackle any task. My dedication to any dining experience is consistency and customer service. I bring the ability to follow established practices by proper training and development of team members.

I have experience in WF/GF cooking and baking, Vegetarian, Vegan, Raw, International Cuisine and most Allergens. I continually strive to better myself daily through research, always wanting to know what can be done better to make my food more comforting or exciting.

Throughout my career, I have had the pleasure of experiencing many genres of food service, such as business dining, high-end hotels, wellness retreat spas, independent living and the education market. All of this has taught me the importance of food safety, working in a diverse environment and being a leader. The desire to help accomplish sustainability and wellness to an organization is paramount. I pride myself in the ability to teach, multi-task, follow policies and continually exceed goals. Client satisfaction is a true passion.

I thank you in advance for your consideration for this position and look forward to hearing from you soon.

Show Your Culinary Skills

Cover letters for chefs should always highlight the applicant’s culinary skills. If you’re not a chef, focus on your experience with cooking and demonstrating that you understand how to apply flavors in new ways.

When it comes to highlighting your culinary skills, there are many ways to do this! You can mention:

• An example of something you’ve cooked recently that was well received by friends or family
• A favorite dish of yours
• Your preference for cooking ingredients such as herbs, spices, or vegetables

Show Your Experience

To get your foot in the door as a chef, it’s important to include any experience you have. For example, even if you are just fresh out of culinary school and have little-to-no work experience, include what you do know about cooking or restaurant work.

Explain how this experience has prepared you for the job and say why it makes you qualified for this position specifically. You can also mention any awards or accolades that demonstrate your abilities as a chef and show employers that they won’t be taking on someone who is unproven or still learning the ropes.

Show Your Creativity

As a chef, you need to be creative in the kitchen and make delicious dishes for your customers. So it should come as no surprise that hiring managers are looking for creativity on your cover letter too.

To showcase your innovative thinking when applying for jobs, use examples from past projects or internships to demonstrate how you’ve demonstrated creativity in the past. For example, talk about how you developed new recipes and menus at a restaurant where you worked before; explain what made them unique and why they were successful.

Proofread your cover letter

If you are applying for a job as a chef, proofreading your cover letter is critical. Your cover letter is your first impression to the employer, and hiring managers will use it to make assumptions about how attentive you are to detail.

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Cover letter examples

Christopher has chosen the modern Otago template that shows his motivation and reasons for applying. It follows a simple and well-structured format with readable font and short paragraphs. He is a seasoned chef with a proven track record in leading teams and creating high-quality dishes.

"I am writing to express my strong interest in the Sous Chef position at Black Raddish. With 7+ years of experience at prestigious restaurants such as The Ritz Carlton Hotel in London, I offer expertise in crafting outstanding dishes, ensuring memorable experiences for clients, and implementing projects that improve kitchen efficiency and client satisfaction."

Table of contents

How to Write a Chef Cover Letter (Template & examples)

In today's competitive market, a strong cover letter can be your recipe for success. Whether you are a commis chef, sous chef, or head chef, you need to know how to format your cover letter, what to include, and the best strategies to set yourself apart from other candidates. In this step-by-step guide, we walk you through every step, showing how to present your relevant skills and passion for the culinary world.

Sharpen your knives and let's get started!

For more inspiration, explore our diverse collection of cover letter templates to boost your chances of passing job interviews.

Chef cover letter example 

Download this chef cover letter example in PDF

This cover letter sample features Christopher Stanley, a Sous Chef with a demonstrated track record of leading diverse teams. He’s looking for a similar role at a more prestigious restaurant. This cover letter follows a modern format with simple paragraphs and easy-to-read language. It shows Christopher's expertise in creating innovative dishes, improving kitchen operations, and consistently improving client satisfaction. With measurable achievements and relevant work experience, he presents himself as an ideal candidate for the role.

Choose your matching chef CV or cover letter

What to include in a chef cover letter .

A well-crafted cover letter needs to be brief, impactful, and adjusted to the specific position you're applying for. It should showcase your key skills and achievements relevant to the job. For example, common soft skills for a chef include communication, leadership, and creativity skills.

Research the company culture before crafting your cover letter and add the skills accordingly, giving yourself an advantage over other candidates.

The structure of a good chef cover letter is straightforward and includes the following information:

See the related blog article on how to structure your cover letter for more insightful tips.

Introduction: Quickly mention your most recent job title, background, and relevant experience.

Qualifications summary: Emphasise your main skills, achievements, or projects relevant to the job.

Relevant experience: Focus on one or two recent jobs and highlight your relevant achievements.

Education: Mention your highest level of education, such as a bachelor's or master's degree or A-level diploma.

Skills: Incorporate relevant soft and hard skills that correspond with areas of expertise on your CV.

Awards and honours: Briefly mention awards, honours, or certifications.

References: Add full name, job title, and contact information for your references.

Call to action: Add an invitation to an interview or express your eagerness to discuss this further.

Additionally, check out our related blog articles for different CV components:

How to write a skills-based CV

Education on a CV

Work experience for a CV.

1. How to start a chef cover letter 

Your introduction should provide a brief overview of your background, qualifications, relevant experience and skills. Similar to a personal profile on a CV , it needs to reflect your career goals and capture the attention of your hiring manager. Ensure that your writing is friendly and easy to read to encourage them to complete reading your cover letter.

See the list of must-have information to include in your introduction:

Contact details : Include your full name, location, date of application, phone number, and professional email address.

Salutation: Address your recruiter by name. If you don't know the name, use 'Dear Hiring Manager' instead.

Hook: Add an eye-catching line expressing your interest in the role or show a notable achievement or reference.

Cover letter introduction example for a sous chef

I am eager to apply for the Sous Chef position at The Rustic Spoon, as advertised on Indeed. With 5+ years of experience in high-volume kitchens, I am eager to bring my cooking skills and leadership abilities to your esteemed restaurant. I have led the growth of a new menu, leading to a 20% increase in restaurant revenue within four months. I am confident I will be a great asset to your restaurant and bring innovative ideas to the table to help you reach higher reviews.

Cover letter introduction example for a commis chef

I am writing to express my interest in the Commis Chef position at Culinary Haven, as recommended by Ava Wyatt who works for your restaurant. As a graduate of the University of London and a devoted cook, I am excited about the opportunity to learn and grow in a professional kitchen environment. Mentored and trained a team of six junior Chefs, achieving a 35% increase in their KPIs within three months, I am keen on bringing a positive impact on your company.

Cover letter introduction example for a head chef

I am applying for the Head Chef position at Gourmet Eats. With 10+ years of experience in culinary innovation and team leadership, I am excited to contribute my expertise to elevate your reputation. Coordinating and leading a team of 10 chefs to deliver top-rated dishes for a corporate event with 500+ guests, I am ready to take on the challenge of managing your kitchen.

Explore our blog article on how to start a cover letter for more examples and tips.

2. How to write the body of a chef cover letter 

The main part of your cover letter discusses your relevant skills and experience, explaining how they align with the specific role you're applying for. Use one or two paragraphs to delve deeper into your most recent positions or projects you have dealt with.

Make sure to include the essential information in your chef cover letter body:

Achievements : Highlight accomplishments, such as leading kitchen teams, developing new menus boosting revenue, or executing safety protocols.

Qualifications : Mention relevant culinary arts degrees, certifications, or on-the-job training that demonstrate your expertise working in the kitchen setting.

Key projects : Describe projects where you designed menus, mentored junior chefs to success, or coordinated large-scale events with top-rated dishes.

Areas of expertise : Emphasise skills like menu planning, kitchen management, recipe development, and adherence to health and safety standards.

For more tips, check out our related blog article on the most sought-after skills employers look for .

Cover letter body sample for chef de partie

At Sizzle Bistro, I led grill operations, developing new techniques reducing cooking times by 15% while maintaining food quality. I also trained junior staff, fostering teamwork and efficiency. I am eager to bring these skills to Great Guns Social, ensuring top-notch hygiene standards and an optimistic kitchen environment.

Short cover letter body sample for chef position

With 5+ years of experience, including Sous Chef and Head Chef roles, I specialise in menu development and kitchen management. I excel in optimising workflows and ensuring high food quality. I look forward to contributing to bringing innovation to your team at Kanishka.

Cover letter body sample for a sushi chef

At Omami Sushi House, I led a team in designing high-quality and delicious sushi. With a passion for cooking and using modern cooking techniques, I am excited to bring my skills to Sushi Delight. I am committed to improving the restaurant ranking and ensuring a memorable dining experience.

For more examples, refer to our related CV guides for a restaurant manager and hospitality .

3. How to end a chef cover letter 

The conclusion of your cover letter should reiterate your interest in the role, thank the recruiter for their time in assessing your application, and include a strong call to action. Mention your eagerness to learn and work in a team at your desired restaurant. Additionally, mention your desire to discuss your application further in the job interview and discuss details of your CV or portfolio.

See the list of key information to include in your chef cover letter:

Gratitude : thank your recruiter or hiring manager for considering your application and the opportunity to join the team.

Call to action : Encourage them to click on your portfolio link, send you an interview invitation, or schedule a follow-up meeting.

Sign off : Add a professional closing phrase like 'Sincerely' or 'Kind regards' to maintain a respectful tone throughout your application.

Check out our related blog article on how to end your cover letter for more information.

Cover letter ending example for an executive chef cover letter

Thank you for taking the time to read my application for the Executive Chef position at Epicurean Eats. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my vision and leadership skills to your well-known restaurant. I look forward to collaborating with your talented team to create a unique experience for clients.

Cover letter ending example for a private chef

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to ensure the highest quality service to meet diverse client needs and unique tastes. I am eager to discuss how I can contribute to improving their culinary experiences and providing exceptional service.

Cover letter ending example for a pastry chef

Thank you for considering my application for the Pastry Chef position at Sweet Bakery. I am passionate about crafting tasty desserts and satisfying clients. I am eager to bring my creativity and expertise to your pastry kitchen and contribute to the reputation of Sweet Bakery for outstanding pastries.

For more examples and tips, check out our CV guides for baker and waiter/waitress .

How to write a chef cover letter with no experience

Whether you are a student , graduate , or enrolled in a culinary internship , your cover letter should showcase your relevant transferrable skills and side jobs. We suggest carefully examining the company culture and specific job roles to increase your chances of success. Make a list of all relevant skills and experiences you have and naturally incorporate them into your letter. Ensure they meet the company's goals. Do not let a lack of experience prevent you from applying for your jobs!

CV tips for writing a chef cover letter without experience :

Indicate your job target upfront

Align your transferrable skills or projects with the company's objectives

Attach your CV, references, or portfolio where possible.

Add a strong call to action

Proofread for mistakes.

For more job-specific examples and tips, refer to our related blog article on how to write a CV with no experience .

Cover letter no experience example for a chef assistant

As a Chef Assistant, I have effectively managed kitchen operations for family gatherings and events, demonstrating strong communication and teamwork skills. With keen organisational skills and attention to detail I ensure food quality meets the latest industry standards. I coordinated a dinner party for 20 guests where I planned menus, prepared dishes, and greeted each guest personally. Eager to apply these skills at The Pearl, I am keen to learn from seasoned chefs and contribute to the success of the kitchen team.

Cover letter no experience example for a personal chef

In my last part-time roles as a Personal Chef and Kitchen Porter, I have created dishes for diverse needs, earning praise for bespoke culinary experiences. I flawlessly led a private dinner event, designing a multi-course menu to accommodate dietary restrictions and flavour preferences. I am committed to delivering exceptional culinary experiences, exceeding expectations via innovative dishes and dedication to high-quality customer service.

For more information, consult our related CV guides for a kitchen porter and catering assistant .

Key takeaways 

We have walked you through essential steps to creating an effective cover letter, offering insights and practical tips to help you land more job interviews. Ensure that your cover letter includes a captivating hook, a body that aligns your qualifications with the job requirements, and a conclusion paragraph that leaves a strong impression on recruiters and hiring managers.

Before handing your application in, carefully double-check your cover letter for spelling, grammar, or even punctuation mistakes. Creating a clean and error-free document shows your professionalism and attention to detail.

Maintain a positive tone throughout your letter focusing on strengths and talents.

Keep it short and specific to the job you’re applying for

Double-check for spelling or grammar mistakes 

Use action verbs for writing duties and achievements

Include numbers to quantify your impact like increasing sales revenue or team improvements

Next steps?

To help you create an outstanding cover letter, explore our services below:

Cover letter builder : Use our selection of professional templates to create a personalised and well-structured cover letter.

CV Builder : Browse through our extensive array of CV templates to create a professional CV matching your cover letter.

CV Writing Service : Receive prompt, professional guidance on customising your CV and cover letter for a specific job description.

Blog : Read step-by-step guides and short articles, such as good questions to ask during an interview to educate yourself on the most effective strategies for boosting your job prospects.

Explore our diverse cover letter examples and CV examples designed to align with your culinary career objectives.

Customise this chef cover letter?

Do chefs need a cover letter.

While not obligatory, attaching a cover letter to your application can increase your job prospects and provide more information about your personality and passion for cooking.

For more tips and examples, see our related blog article on the best cover letter length.

How to write an application letter as a chef without experience?

The key is to show your eagerness to learn, passion for culinary arts, and transferable skills from your part-time jobs or real-life experiences. Emphasise your teamwork and attention to detail abilities.

To learn more, see our related articles for part-time CV and school leaver .

How do I write a simple application letter for a cook?

Show your passion for cooking and interest in joining the specific restaurant culture.

Mention most recent work experience as a cook, kitchen assistant, or customer service.

Add notable achievements and reasons why you make the ideal candidate

Include relevant skills and culinary projects you have done

Mention any additional certifications, qualifications, or recommendations that could enhance your chances of getting noticed.

Refer to our simple CV example for more insightful career advice.

How do you introduce yourself as a chef sample?

Include your personal details at the top of your cover letter and a close-off like ‘Sincerely or ‘Kind regards at the end. In the first paragraph of your cover letter, you can quickly mention your years of experience, main achievements, or background.

How do I market myself as a personal chef?

Attend local culinary organisations.

Connect with other chefs through conferences or cooking events.

Offer discounts

Create a personal website that shows your best work 

Use social media (e.g. TikTok or Instagram) to spread the word about your culinary ideas.

For more tips, consult our related blog article on how to search and track jobs as a cook or chef.

What is your greatest strength as a chef?

It depends on your unique personality and work experience, but you could mention your ability to think creatively, attention to detail, leadership, or adaptability to various working environments.

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Chef Cover Letter Example

Boost your chances of getting hired and find ideas for your next cover letter with our free, editable Chef cover letter example. Download this cover letter example at no cost or rewrite it directly in our simple yet powerful cover letter creator.

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Chef Cover Letter Example (Full Text Version)

Margus sibul.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I would like to express my interest in the Chef position at La Via Restaurant in Paris as it would be a great opportunity for me to apply my expertise. With over 6 years of experience in restaurants all around the world and Diplome de Cuisine with Culinary Management from famous Le Cordon Bleu London, I am confident, I'll be a valuable contribution to your team.

As an experienced culinary professional, I am able to lead and manage other employees, work under pressure, and mainly perform well in fast-paced environments. During my job at Marriott International, Inc., I was responsible for monitoring the consistency of food quality, managing catering for various events, preparing meals, and controlling the restaurant budget. I always excelled at communication with customers and exceeded all goals and targets. At Le Baratin, I was recognized for significantly improving the food and labor costs and won the 2018 Meilleur Ouvrier de France Award.

With my strong attention to detail and accuracy, creative mind, and exceptional fast-paced decision-making abilities, I believe I would fit any environment. I'm passionate about my job and enjoy getting better. Speaking of languages, I am a native Estonian and proficient in English, French, and Russian.  I am thrilled at the thoughts of working at La Via Restaurant as I know how well-known it is in the world and I believe that it would be an excellent opportunity for me to grow professionally. I have also attached my resume and contact information of two references. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Margus Sibul

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job

I ’ve read thousands, maybe tens of thousands, of cover letters in my career. If you’re thinking that sounds like really boring reading, you’re right. What I can tell you from enduring that experience is that most cover letters are terrible — and not only that, but squandered opportunities. When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test.

So let’s talk about how to do cover letters right.

First, understand the point of a cover letter.

The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just your résumé. Managers generally aren’t hiring based solely on your work history; your experience is crucial, yes, but they’re also looking for someone who will be easy to work with, shows good judgment, communicates well, possesses strong critical thinking skills and a drive to get things done, complements their current team, and all the other things you yourself probably want from your co-workers. It’s tough to learn much about those things from job history alone, and that’s where your cover letter comes in.

Because of that …

Whatever you do, don’t just summarize your résumé.

The No. 1 mistake people make with cover letters is that they simply use them to summarize their résumé. This makes no sense — hiring managers don’t need a summary of your résumé! It’s on the very next page! They’re about to see it as soon as they scroll down. And if you think about it, your entire application is only a few pages (in most cases, a one- or two-page résumé and a one-page cover letter) — why would you squander one of those pages by repeating the content of the others? And yet, probably 95 percent of the cover letters I see don’t add anything new beyond the résumé itself (and that’s a conservative estimate).

Instead, your cover letter should go beyond your work history to talk about things that make you especially well-suited for the job. For example, if you’re applying for an assistant job that requires being highly organized and you neurotically track your household finances in a detailed, color-coded spreadsheet, most hiring managers would love to know that because it says something about the kind of attention to detail you’d bring to the job. That’s not something you could put on your résumé, but it can go in your cover letter.

Or maybe your last boss told you that you were the most accurate data processor she’d ever seen, or came to rely on you as her go-to person whenever a lightning-fast rewrite was needed. Maybe your co-workers called you “the client whisperer” because of your skill in calming upset clients. Maybe you’re regularly sought out by more senior staff to help problem-solve, or you find immense satisfaction in bringing order to chaos. Those sorts of details illustrate what you bring to the job in a different way than your résumé does, and they belong in your cover letter.

If you’re still stumped, pretend you’re writing an email to a friend about why you’d be great at the job. You probably wouldn’t do that by stiffly reciting your work history, right? You’d talk about what you’re good at and how you’d approach the work. That’s what you want here.

You don’t need a creative opening line.

If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you don’t. Just be simple and straightforward:

• “I’m writing to apply for your X position.”

• “I’d love to be considered for your X position.”

• “I’m interested in your X position because …”

• “I’m excited to apply for your X position.”

That’s it! Straightforward is fine — better, even, if the alternative is sounding like an aggressive salesperson.

Show, don’t tell.

A lot of cover letters assert that the person who wrote it would excel at the job or announce that the applicant is a skillful engineer or a great communicator or all sorts of other subjective superlatives. That’s wasted space — the hiring manager has no reason to believe it, and so many candidates claim those things about themselves that most managers ignore that sort of self-assessment entirely. So instead of simply declaring that you’re great at X (whatever X is), your letter should demonstrate that. And the way you do that is by describing accomplishments and experiences that illustrate it.

Here’s a concrete example taken from one extraordinarily effective cover-letter makeover that I saw. The candidate had originally written, “I offer exceptional attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and a talent for managing complex projects with a demonstrated ability to prioritize and multitask.” That’s pretty boring and not especially convincing, right? (This is also exactly how most people’s cover letters read.)

In her revised version, she wrote this instead:

“In addition to being flexible and responsive, I’m also a fanatic for details — particularly when it comes to presentation. One of my recent projects involved coordinating a 200-page grant proposal: I proofed and edited the narratives provided by the division head, formatted spreadsheets, and generally made sure that every line was letter-perfect and that the entire finished product conformed to the specific guidelines of the RFP. (The result? A five-year, $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying this same level of attention to detail to tasks as visible as prepping the materials for a top-level meeting and as mundane as making sure the copier never runs out of paper.”

That second version is so much more compelling and interesting — and makes me believe that she really is great with details.

If there’s anything unusual or confusing about your candidacy, address it in the letter.

Your cover letter is your chance to provide context for things that otherwise might seem confusing or less than ideal to a hiring manager. For example, if you’re overqualified for the position but are excited about it anyway, or if you’re a bit underqualified but have reason to think you could excel at the job, address that up front. Or if your background is in a different field but you’re actively working to move into this one, say so, talk about why, and explain how your experience will translate. Or if you’re applying for a job across the country from where you live because you’re hoping to relocate to be closer to your family, let them know that.

If you don’t provide that kind of context, it’s too easy for a hiring manager to decide you’re the wrong fit or applying to everything you see or don’t understand the job description and put you in the “no” pile. A cover letter gives you a chance to say, “No, wait — here’s why this could be a good match.”

Keep the tone warm and conversational.

While there are some industries that prize formal-sounding cover letters — like law — in most fields, yours will stand out if it’s warm and conversational. Aim for the tone you’d use if you were writing to a co-worker whom you liked a lot but didn’t know especially well. It’s okay to show some personality or even use humor; as long as you don’t go overboard, your letter will be stronger for it.

Don’t use a form letter.

You don’t need to write every cover letter completely from scratch, but if you’re not customizing it to each job, you’re doing it wrong. Form letters tend to read like form letters, and they waste the chance to speak to the specifics of what this employer is looking for and what it will take to thrive in this particular job.

If you’re applying for a lot of similar jobs, of course you’ll end up reusing language from one letter to the next. But you shouldn’t have a single cover letter that you wrote once and then use every time you apply; whatever you send should sound like you wrote it with the nuances of this one job in mind.

A good litmus test is this: Could you imagine other applicants for this job sending in the same letter? If so, that’s a sign that you haven’t made it individualized enough to you and are probably leaning too heavily on reciting your work history.

No, you don’t need to hunt down the hiring manager’s name.

If you read much job-search advice, at some point you’ll come across the idea that you need to do Woodward and Bernstein–level research to hunt down the hiring manager’s name in order to open your letter with “Dear Matilda Jones.” You don’t need to do this; no reasonable hiring manager will care. If the name is easily available, by all means, feel free to use it, but otherwise “Dear Hiring Manager” is absolutely fine. Take the hour you just freed up and do something more enjoyable with it.

Keep it under one page.

If your cover letters are longer than a page, you’re writing too much, and you risk annoying hiring managers who are likely sifting through hundreds of applications and don’t have time to read lengthy tomes. On the other hand, if you only write one paragraph, it’s unlikely that you’re making a compelling case for yourself as a candidate — not impossible, but unlikely. For most people, something close to a page is about right.

Don’t agonize over the small details.

What matters most about your cover letter is its content. You should of course ensure that it’s well-written and thoroughly proofread, but many job seekers agonize over elements of the letter that really don’t matter. I get tons of  questions from job seekers  about whether they should attach their cover letter or put it in the body of the email (answer: No one cares, but attaching it makes it easier to share and will preserve your formatting), or what to name the file (again, no one really cares as long as it’s reasonably professional, but when people are dealing with hundreds of files named “resume,” it’s courteous to name it with your full name).

Approaching your cover letter like this can make a huge difference in your job search. It can be the thing that moves your application from the “maybe” pile (or even the “no” pile) to the “yes” pile. Of course, writing cover letters like this will take more time than sending out the same templated letter summarizing your résumé — but 10 personalized, compelling cover letters are likely to get you more  interview invitations  than 50 generic ones will.

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