purpose of resume covering letter

How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

After weeks of heavy job searching, 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 in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

So now, you’re stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where to start...

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.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

• How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter, Step by Step
• 15+ Job-Winning Cover Letter Examples

Let’s get started.

A cover letter is a document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume or CV.

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter is supposed to impress the hiring manager and convince them you’re worth interviewing as a candidate.

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

First of all, it should complement your resume, not copy it. Your cover letter is your chance to elaborate on important achievements, skills, or anything else that your resume doesn’t give you the space to cover. 

For example, if you have an employment gap on your resume, the cover letter is a great place to explain why it happened and how it helped you grow as a person. 

If this is your first time writing a cover letter, writing about yourself might seem complicated. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be super creative or even a good writer .

All you have to do is follow this tried and tested cover letter structure:

• Header. Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
• Formal greeting. Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
• Introduction. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
• Body. Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
• Conclusion. Summarize your key points and wrap it up professionally.

Now, let’s take a look at an example of a cover letter that follows our structure perfectly:

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

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

You should always include a cover letter in your job application, even if the hiring manager never reads it. Submitting a cover letter is as important as submitting a resume if you want to look like a serious candidate.

If the employer requests a cover letter as part of the screening process, not sending one is a huge red flag and will probably get your application tossed into the “no” pile immediately.

On the other hand, if the job advertisement doesn’t require a cover letter from the candidates, adding one shows you went the extra mile.

Putting in the effort to write a cover letter can set you apart from other candidates with similar professional experience and skills, and it could even sway the hiring manager to call you for an interview if you do it right.

Need to write a letter to help get you into a good school or volunteer program? Check out our guide to learn how to write a motivation letter !

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn how to write one!

We’ll go through the process in detail, step by step.

#1. Choose 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, stylish template?

Just choose one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in no time!

As a bonus, our intuitive AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter as you write it. You’ll have the perfect cover letter done in minutes!

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

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

• Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top.
• Job Title. Match the professional title underneath your name to the exact job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Email Address. Always use a professional and easy-to-spell email address. Ideally, it should combine your first and last names.
• Phone Number. Add a number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country, no need for more details.
• Relevant Links (optional). You can add links to websites or social media profiles that are relevant to your field. Examples include a LinkedIn profile , Github, or an online portfolio.

Then it’s time to add the recipient’s contact details, such as:

• Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, add it.
• Hiring Manager's Title. While there’s no harm in writing “hiring manager,” if they’re the head of the department, we recommend you use that title accordingly.
• Company Name. Make sure to write the name of the company you're applying to.
• Location. The city and state/country are usually enough information here, too.
• Date of Writing (Optional). You can include the date you wrote your cover letter for an extra professional touch.

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed all the contact information, it’s time to start writing the content of the cover letter.

The first thing you need to do here is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager.

In fact, you want to address the hiring manager personally .

Forget the old “Dear Sir or Madam” or the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.” You want to give your future boss a good impression and show them that you did your research before sending in your application.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes something sticks with their generic approach

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager?

First, check the job ad. The hiring manager’s name might be listed somewhere in it.

If that doesn’t work, check the company’s LinkedIn page. You just need to look up the head of the relevant department you’re applying to, and you’re all set.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novorésumé. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer.

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

But let’s say you’re applying for a position as a server . In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager” or “food and beverage manager.”

If the results don’t come up with anything, try checking out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Make sure to address them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, you can just stick to their full name, like so:

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

But what if you still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, no matter where you look?

No worries. You can direct your cover letter to the company, department, or team as a whole, or just skip the hiring manager’s name.

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear [Company Name]

Are you applying for a research position? Learn how to write an academic personal statement .

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

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

Hiring managers 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 biggest problem with most opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Here’s an example:

• 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 anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

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

Instead, you want to start with some of your top achievements to grab the reader’s attention. And to get the point across, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

Your opening paragraph should also show the hiring manager a bit about why you want this specific job. For example, mention how the job relates to your plans for the future or how it can help you grow professionally. This will show the hiring manager that you’re not just applying left and right—you’re actually enthusiastic about getting this particular role.

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

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

The second candidate starts with what they can do for the company in the future and immediately lists an impressive and relevant achievement. Since they’re experienced in the same industry and interested in finance, the hiring manager can see they’re not just a random applicant.

From this introduction, it’s safe to say that the hiring manager would read the rest of this candidate’s cover letter.

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

The next part of your cover letter is where you can go into detail about what sets you apart as a qualified candidate for the job.

The main thing you need to remember here is that you shouldn’t make it all about yourself . Your cover letter is supposed to show the hiring manager how you relate to the job and the company you’re applying to.

No matter how cool you make yourself sound in your cover letter, if you don’t tailor it to match what the hiring manager is looking for, you’re not getting an interview.

To get this right, use the job ad as a reference when writing your cover letter. Make sure to highlight skills and achievements that match the job requirements, and you’re good to go.

Since this part of your cover letter is by far the longest, you should split it into at least two paragraphs.

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Before you can show the hiring manager that you’re exactly what they’ve been looking for, you need to know what it is they’re looking for.

Start by doing a bit of research. Learn what the most important skills and responsibilities of the role are according to the job ad, and focus on any relevant experience you have that matches them.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. The top requirements on the job ad are:

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

So, in the body of your cover letter, you need to show how you meet these requirements. Here’s an example of what that can look like:

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 $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and 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

Our example addresses all the necessary requirements and shows off the candidate’s relevant skills.

Are you a student applying for your first internship? Learn how to write an internship cover letter with our dedicated guide.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

As skilled and experienced as you may be, that’s not all the hiring manager is looking for.

They also want someone who’s a good fit for their company and who actually wants to work there.

Employees who don’t fit in with the company culture are likely to quit sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary , so hiring managers vet candidates very carefully to avoid this scenario.

So, you have to convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about working with them.

Start by doing some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company’s product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the company’s culture like?

Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or on job-search websites like Jobscan or Glassdoor.

Then, pick your favorite thing about the company and talk about it in your cover letter.

But don’t just describe the company in its own words just to flatter them. Be super specific—the hiring manager can see through any fluff.

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can 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 strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

So, make sure to do your fair share of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying to that specific company.

Is the company you want to work for not hiring at the moment? Check out our guide to writing a letter of interest .

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Finally, it’s time to conclude your cover letter.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't make in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? If there’s any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision, mention it here. If not, just recap your key selling points so far, such as key skills and expertise.
• Express gratitude. Politely thanking the hiring manager for their time is always a good idea.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. This means you should ask the hiring manager to do something, like call you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.
• Remember to sign your cover letter. Just add a formal closing line and sign your name at the bottom.

Here’s an example of how to end your cover letter :

I hope to help Company X make the most 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. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

Feel free to use one of these other popular closing lines for your cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Once you’re done with your cover letter, it’s time to check if it meets all industry requirements. 

Give our handy cover letter writing checklist a look to make sure:

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

• The hiring manager in the company
• Your future direct supervisor
• The company/department in general

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention some of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
• Did you convey enthusiasm for the specific role?

Do you show that you’re the right candidate for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
• Did you show how your experiences helped 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 conclude your cover letter properly?

• Did you recap your key selling points in the conclusion?
• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
• Did you use the right formal closing line and sign your name?

15 Cover Letter Tips

Now you’re all set to write your cover letter! 

Before you start typing, here are some cover letter tips to help take your cover letter to the next level:

• Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job. Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the job you're applying for. This shows you're not just sending generic applications left and right, and it tells the hiring manager you’re the right person for the job.
• Showcase Your Skills. Talk about how your skills meet the company’s needs. And while your hard skills should be front and center, you shouldn’t underestimate your soft skills in your cover letter either.
• Avoid Fluff. Don’t make any generic statements you can’t back up. The hiring manager can tell when you’re just throwing words around, and it doesn’t make your cover letter look good.
• Use Specific Examples. Instead of saying you're great at something, give an actual example to back up your claim. Any data you can provide makes you sound more credible, so quantify your achievements. For example, give numbers such as percentages related to your performance and the timeframe it took to accomplish certain achievements.
• Research the Company. Always take time to learn about the company you're applying to. Make sure to mention something about them in your cover letter to show the hiring manager that you're interested.
• Follow the Application Instructions. If the job posting asks for something specific in your cover letter or requires a certain format, make sure you include it. Not following instructions can come off as unattentive or signal to the hiring manager that you’re not taking the job seriously.
• Use the Right Template and Format. Choose the right cover letter format and adapt your cover letter’s look to the industry you’re applying for. For example, if you’re aiming for a job in Law or Finance, you should go for a cleaner, more professional look. But if you’re applying for a field that values innovation, like IT or Design, you have more room for creativity.
• Express Your Enthusiasm. Let the hiring manager know why you're excited about the job. Your passion for the specific role or the field in general can be a big selling point, and show them that you’re genuinely interested, not just applying left and right.
• Address Any Gaps. If there are any employment gaps in your resume , your cover letter is a great place to mention why. Your resume doesn’t give you enough space to elaborate on an employment gap, so addressing it here can set hiring managers at ease—life happens, and employers understand.
• Avoid Quirky Emails. Your email address should be presentable. It’s hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Just use a [email protected] format.
• Check Your Contact Information. Typos in your email address or phone number can mean a missed opportunity. Double-check these before sending your application.
• Mention if You Want to Relocate. If you’re looking for a job that lets you move somewhere else, specify this in your cover letter.
• Keep It Brief. You want to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel, so if you go over one page, they simply won’t read it at all.
• Use a Professional Tone. Even though a conversational tone isn’t a bad thing, remember that it's still a formal document. Show professionalism in your cover letter by keeping slang, jargon, and emojis out of it.
• Proofread Carefully. Typos and grammar mistakes are a huge deal-breaker. Use a tool like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar, or even get a friend to check it for you.

15+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Check out some perfect cover letter examples for different experience levels and various professions.

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing a college student cover letter here.

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a project manager cover letter here.

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a team leader cover letter here.

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to a career change resume and cover letter here.

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a management cover letter here.

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an executive resume here.

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing an IT cover letter here.

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a consultant cover letter here.

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a human resources cover letter here.

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business cover letter here.

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales cover letter here.

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a social worker cover letter here.

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a lawyer cover letter here.

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an administrative assistant cover letter here.

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineer cover letter here.

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist cover letter here.

Need more inspiration? Check out these cover letter examples to learn what makes them stand out.

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Not sure how to start your cover letter? Don’t worry!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the blanks for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Heart of 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 falls through.

After all, your cover letter is meant to complement your resume. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression in your cover letter, only for the hiring manager to never read it because your resume was mediocre.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here, too.

Check out our dedicated guide on how to make a resume and learn everything you need to know to land your dream job!

Just pick one of our resume templates and start writing your own job-winning resume.

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’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
• To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
• Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
• Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve every step of the way! 

Follow our career blog for more valuable advice, or check out some of our top guides, such as:

• How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers [Full List]

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• Cover Letter

What Is a Cover Letter & How to Make It Stand Out [10+ Tips]

Typically, a job application consists of a resume and cover letter. And while to most of us the resume is a pretty familiar concept, the idea of a cover letter could be confusing.

Writing a cover letter can seriously boost your chances of landing a job. The question is—

What is a cover letter in the first place? Don’t worry. After reading this guide you’ll know exactly what a cover letter is, and you’ll never confuse it with a resume or CV.

In this guide you’ll learn:

• What the purpose of a cover letter is and what to put on it.
• The difference between a cover letter and a resume/CV.
• How to write and format a job-winning cover letter.
• Why writing a cover letter for a job is a good idea. 

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 18+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Interested in learning more about cover letters? Read:

• Best Cover Letter Tips
• Cover Letter Outline
• Cover Letter Templates for Google Docs
• Cover Letter Templates for MS Word
• How to Write a General Cover Letter
• How to Write an Email Cover Letter
• Is a Cover Letter Necessary?
• What Does a Cover Letter Look Like?

1. What Is a Cover Letter for a Resume?

A cover letter (also known as a motivational letter, letter of motivation, or covering letter) is a letter that accompanies a resume or CV and forms part of a job application. A cover letter’s role is to explain your motivation for applying for the position and demonstrate the skills that make you suitable for the job.

And let’s be super clear about one thing—

A cover letter is not the same as a resume or CV.

The term resume is commonly used in the US and Canada to refer to a document briefly outlining your qualifications, previous experience, education, and skills. Typically, resumes are one or two pages long. You can find more details in our guide on how to write a resume .

A CV , or curriculum vitae , is very much like a resume but offers a more detailed look into the candidate’s career history. In the US and Canada, CVs are mostly used when applying for positions with academic institutions. CVs can be one or two pages long, but it’s not uncommon for a CV to be 10+ pages long, and contain detailed information on the candidate's publications or academic honors among others. For more details, read our guide on how to write a CV .

2. What Is on a Cover Letter?

A cover letter should be clean and simple, like this one:

Sample Cover Letter

Eric K. Jordan

Senior Business Analyst

3950 Bottom Lane

Buffalo, NY 14202

201-705-9473

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/eric-jordan

Anytown, 1 June 2019 

Gloria L. Turner

Director of Sales

4182 Desert Broom Court

Newark, NJ 07102

Dear Gloria,

When I noticed that ARK Tech has an opening for a Senior Business Analyst, I felt like the offer was specifically directed at me. In my current role as a business analyst with Xytras Media, I was able to save as much as USD 500K in a year by redesigning the company’s data system. I’m positive my superb analytical skills will let me achieve comparable results at ARK Tech.

I understand one of the biggest challenges for your team of business analysts will be to craft and implement viable strategic initiatives after your recent merger with NEXGEN. In my career as a business analyst, I’ve been opportune enough to work within cross-functional teams on developing large-scale sales and operation strategies. One of such collaborations resulted in creating an enterprise data warehouse worth USD 5M.

What I find immensely motivating about the opportunity at ARK Tech is that your mission is perfectly aligned with my values, and the company is only starting to step into the territory I’ve had so much experience with. That’s why I’d love to share my knowledge, help you avoid certain common pitfalls, and make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.

Would it be possible to schedule an appointment next week, so we can discuss what short- and long-term strategies we could implement to boost sales figures by 20% next year? 

P.S.—I’d really love to tell you how my team was able to identify and eliminate a major bottleneck that was causing 15% loss of revenue.

3. How to Write a Cover Letter

They say that writing a cover letter can be gruelling. Well, it can. But not if you know exactly what to do, and how to do it right.

Here’s a handy checklist you can fall back on when writing your cover letter:

• Make a professional cover letter header . See to it that it includes your full name, job title, and current contact information, as well as the addressee’s contact details.
• Use appropriate salutation. Start with Dear , and follow it with either the hiring manager’s first name or Mr./Ms. and their last name, depending on company culture. If you have no idea who you’re writing to, you can use Dear Hiring Manager for example.
• Divide the main body into three sections: start your cover letter with showing your biggest achievement, then explain how your skills will benefit the company, finally explain your motivations.
• Include a call to action towards the end of your cover letter and sign off with a professional closing.

If you need more detailed advice, head straight to our full-length guide on how to write a job-winning cover letter . Apart from lots of great writing hints, you’ll find good and bad examples of each cover letter section.

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

4. How to Format a Cover Letter

The best cover letter format is one that’s universal enough to be easily tailored to just about any position. Here are the basic rules of formatting a job-winning cover letter:

• Add your contact details
• Put the addressee’s contact information
• Date the letter
• Use an appropriate salutation
• Write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph
• Make a paragraph explaining why you’re a great fit
• Finish with a closing paragraph that calls the reader to action
• Include a professional sign off
• Consider adding the postscript (an optional section)

And here come our tried and tested formatting guidelines:

• Set a one-inch margin on each side
• Left-align the text
• Opt for professional-looking cover letter fonts
• Stick to single-line spacing (1.15 will do too)
• Separate each section and paragraph with a blank line
• Export your cover letter to a PDF.

Our in-depth guide on how to format a cover letter offers actionable advice on getting to grips with every section of your cover letter. Plus, it has a lot of examples you can use and modify for your purposes.

5. Do I need a Cover Letter?

Cut a long story short. Yes, you do need a cover letter.

First off, 50% of hiring managers expect your job application to consist of both a resume and a cover letter. Since you never know what the hiring manager reading your job application expects, it’s better to overdeliver than disappoint.

Plus, a well-written cover letter will give you an edge over those applicants who are either too lazy to write one or have no idea what it takes to write a great cover letter.

In fact, we have an entire guide in which we examine whether on not cover letters are necessary , and see how the cover letter evolved over the years.

6. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

Here’s how it works:

Your cover letter should be long enough to show everything you can offer, and short enough not to lose the reader halfway through. This is how it translates into numbers.

Your cover letter should be: 

• 3 paragraphs
• about 300 words

Obviously, there are many different kinds of cover letters. So, if you’re looking for more detailed information, our guide on how long a cover letter should be  has all the answers.

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Here’s all you need to know about a cover letter:

• A cover letter is a type of letter you include in your job application.
• Its main role is to let the reader know what motivated you to apply, and what you can offer.
• A cover letter is not synonymous with a resume or CV.
• Typically, a cover letter’s main body consists of three paragraphs, each for a different purpose.
• Even though cover letters aren’t always necessary, they can give a serious boost to your application.
• Cover letters shouldn’t be too long. Most of the time, a single page is enough.

Do you have any questions on what a cover letter is? Would you like to share your advice on what a cover letter should consist of? We’d love to hear from you. Give us a shout out in the comments below.

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Experienced in the education management industry, Maciej shares his knowledge for every step of your job hunt, from landing an internship to moving to an executive position. Maciej has helped job candidates at all stages of their career paths, from interns to directors to C-suite members, to thrive in their job. His mission is to help you find the right opportunity and create a job application that gets you the career you deserve.

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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 great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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Resume builder

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!

What’s the purpose of a cover letter?

Your resumé provides hiring managers with an overview of your qualifications, skills and experience. But what is the purpose of a cover letter?

A cover letter is a more personalised introduction, a one-page document that accompanies your resumé when you submit a job application. It’s an opportunity to introduce yourself and elaborate on how your background makes you the ideal applicant for the role.

In this article, we explore the purpose of a cover letter, explain how to write a cover letter , and how to ensure yours stands out.

The cover letter’s purpose

How to write a cover letter.

What is the purpose of a cover letter? A cover letter provides an explanation of your professional history, qualifications and interest in the position. It should be closely tailored to the role you’re applying for and addressed to the hiring manager . It’s a formal introduction of who you are and how you meet the job criteria.

Express your enthusiasm

Use your cover letter as an opportunity to set yourself apart from the other job seekers applying for the same position. Rather than just stating that you’re applying for a role, take your time to explain what excites you about the specific position and company.

It can be a good idea to spend a bit of time researching the organisation’s mission, values and recent projects to demonstrate genuine interest and knowledge. This can also come in handy for the interview round of the application process.

Showcase your skills and experience

Your cover letter shouldn’t just repeat your resumé. Instead, select two to three skills or experiences directly related to the job description. From here, you can use the STAR method (situation, task, action, result) to provide examples demonstrating how you’ve applied these skills and achieved results. Consider quantifying your achievements, if relevant, for example: ‘Increased sales over three months by 20%.’ This helps to illustrate the specific value you can bring to the new role.

Tell your story

Use your cover letter to briefly explain your career path and motivations, connecting them to the position you're applying for. Highlight the relevant soft skills that you might not have captured in your resumé, like leadership, teamwork, problem solving and decision-making. While a cover letter is a great opportunity to provide a little more depth and context around your resumé, it’s important to keep it concise; around three short paragraphs.

Address requirements from the job description

Whether you’re writing your resumé or your cover letter, it’s important to pay close attention to the job description. If it mentions specific details to include, like salary expectations or relevant certifications, be sure to address them in your cover letter. Following instructions demonstrates your attention to detail and ability to follow directions, which are both important qualities for any employer.

When it comes to writing a cover letter , it always helps to have a plan. Here are a few steps to help you turn a blank page into an attention-grabbing cover letter for your next job application.

1. Do your research

Researching the company can take a bit of time, especially if you’re applying at several different places, but it’s essential to understand each company’s culture and values. Using company-specific information allows you to personalise your cover letter to suit not just the role, but the organisation too.

It’s even better if you can show an understanding of the problems the company is trying to solve (their main objectives, like expanding into a new market or getting highly skilled labourers). Highlight the experience you bring to the table to help them overcome these pain points.

2. Focus on the future

Use your cover letter to demonstrate how you can contribute to the company’s future successes. It can help to line up your career aspirations and professional goals with the company’s goals. Ultimately, you want to highlight what you can add to the company.

How to stand out from other applicants

Use your cover letter as an opportunity to set yourself apart from the other applicants. Avoid generic openings and start with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader’s attention. You could mention a specific achievement, a mutual connection or something unique about the company that excites you.

Here are a couple of examples of eye-catching email subject lines and letter introductions:

Subject line: Bringing [specific skill] to your [position] team

Dear [hiring manager’s name],

I am thrilled to apply for the maintenance plumber position at XYZ Corp. With 10 years of experience as a commercial plumber, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and knowledge to your team.

Subject line: Excited to apply for [position] at [company]

As a lifelong admirer of XYZ Corp’s commitment to sustainability, I am excited to apply for the environmental consultant position. I believe my recent project at Green Earth, where I led a team to reduce product carbon emissions by 15%, makes me a perfect addition to your team.

These are good examples of email introductions, because they:

• Connect your abilities to the job ad criteria
• Quantify related achievements
• Show specific skills
• Display professionalism and research skills

Things to avoid

There are also some things you may want to avoid when putting together your cover letter introduction. Here are some examples of what not to write when it comes to your email subject line and introduction.

Example 1: Being vague and generic

Subject line: Excited to apply for the banking consultant position

I am writing to apply for the consultant position as advertised online. I have more than five years’ experience across all areas of commercial banking and believe I could be an excellent addition to your team.

This is an okay introduction, but there are ways it can be improved:

• It should be addressed to a person or the hiring manager
• It can be more specific about past experience
• It should mention the hiring company
• It could include a quantifiable result

Example 2: Being too casual

Subject line: Please Hire Me As You New Night Manager!

Dear Hiring Manager,

I’m an experienced night manager, with nearly two years of experience in luxury five-star hospitality. I’m an international student with a current work visa for working in Australia, and would be grateful if you could consider my application. I am sure I can do well in your company!

There are a few issues with this intro:

• There is a typo in the subject line
• It is too generic about past experience
• It is too casual, especially for a manager-level role
• It doesn’t mention the hiring company
• It should be more concise, i.e. not repetitive or wordy

Emphasise your value proposition

Use your cover letter to identify and articulate your unique strengths . Be sure to connect your skills with the company’s needs to demonstrate the value you could bring to the team.

Convey enthusiasm, but ensure tone is professional

While it’s important to convey your enthusiasm for the position and company, balancing excitement with professionalism is important. For example, replace “I can’t wait to work with you guys” with “I’m eager to bring my skills to your team.” While the first example is too casual, the second example demonstrates your enthusiasm in a professional tone.

Here’s another example of an overly enthusiastic and informal tone, “I’m super excited about this job! I’ve always dreamed of working at XYZ Corp, and I know I’d be amazing in this role!”

Instead, you’d be better off saying, “I am excited to apply for the receptionist position at XYZ Corp. With my strong background in office administration and a passion for customer service excellence, I am eager to contribute to your team.”

Keep it short

Don’t go overboard with your cover letter. Even though your cover letter is meant to provide hiring managers with more information about you and what excites you about the role, it’s important to keep it concise and limit it to a single page.

To help you keep it short and sweet, focus on starting strong with an attention-grabbing introduction and tailor your content to ensure it’s specific and relevant to the role you’re applying for.

Writing a great cover letter is an essential part of the job application process. By tailoring your cover letter to the specific company and role, you’ll be able to highlight the skills, knowledge, and experience that are relevant to the position. Your cover letter plays a big role in whether you’ll get a callback for an interview, so it’s worth investing time and effort into getting it right.

What exactly is a cover letter and how is it different from a resumé?

While a resumé offers a bullet-listed overview of your skills and experience, your cover letter is like a personal pitch to the hiring manager, elaborating on your resumé and providing a little more detail to demonstrate why you’d be a good fit for the position.

Is a cover letter always mandatory when applying for a job?

Cover letters aren’t always a requirement for job applications, but it’s always a good idea to submit one. Not only can including a cover letter improve your chances of getting noticed, but it allows you to set yourself apart from the other applicants and further try to convince the hiring manager why you’re the right fit for the role.

What are the main benefits of including a cover letter with my job application?

Including a cover letter as part of your application can enhance your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. Here are some of the main benefits:

• Provides a personal introduction and good first impression
• Allows you to highlight your most relevant skills and experience for the role
• Demonstrates communication skills
• Shows initiative and effort

How long should a cover letter typically be?

A cover letter shouldn’t be any longer than a single page. Aim for around 250–400 words or three or four paragraphs. The only time you should go over a page in length for your cover letter is if the job description specifically asks for a longer letter.

Should I use a generic cover letter template for all my applications?

There’s no harm in using a cover letter template to guide your cover letter, but it’s essential that you tailor every cover letter to suit the role and company. You should be adjusting your cover letter for each role you apply for.

What kind of information should I include in a cover letter to showcase my skills and experience?

Your cover letter should include details that are most relevant to the position and company you’re applying for. Based on your research, you should be able to identify specific skills, knowledge and experience that would help the company succeed.

Is it okay to mention my salary expectations in the cover letter?

Unless the job description specifically ask that you include your salary expectations in the cover letter, it’s often better to avoid this topic so early in the recruitment process . These types of discussions are better left for the interview.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter?

You want to make a positive first impression with your cover letter, so here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Using generic statements
• Lack of research into the company
• Repeating your resumé without adding anything new
• Being too vague and not providing specific examples
• Focusing on what you want rather than what you can provide to the company
• Ignoring the job description keywords
• Failing to proofread your cover letter before submitting it

Is a cover letter still necessary when applying for jobs online?

Yes, cover letters are still essential to the job application process for many roles. They give you a chance to stand out from the other applicants and fill in potential gaps that aren’t covered by your resumé. Not to mention, including a cover letter demonstrates your initiative and enthusiasm for the role.

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Blog Cover Letter Help Cover Letter vs Resume: What’s the Difference?

Cover Letter vs Resume: What’s the Difference?

You should always pair a well-written cover letter with your resume to make your job application stand out. But it’s essential to know how to write these two documents so they don’t repeat the same information.

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What is a cover letter?

What is a resume, the difference between a cover letter and a resume, examples of a cover letter and resume.

A cover letter formally introduces you, your interest in a specific position, and your suitability for that position to a hiring manager. A resume, on the other hand, provides a hiring manager an overview of your skills and professional experience.

These two different yet complementary documents act as a dynamic team when you apply for jobs. Together, they give you the best chance of impressing hiring managers and landing work.

On this page, we provide answers to the following questions:

• What is a cover letter for a resume?
• What should be on your resume ?
• How does a cover letter differ from a resume?
• What are some examples of a cover letter and resume ?

Our free-to-use cover letter builder can make you a cover letter in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.

Not quite sure what a cover letter is ? A cover letter is a professional document used to introduce yourself to an employer and explain why you want a specific job. Unlike a resume, which is an objective overview of your qualifications, the purpose of a cover letter is to prove why your qualifications make you the best fit for the job opening.

The normal cover letter length is 300 to 500 words, giving you plenty of room to show why you’re the ideal candidate.

Your cover letter can be broken into six parts :

List your contact details (name, phone number, email address) in your cover letter header .

B. Salutation

The best cover letter opening is Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx] [Hiring Manager’s Name]. Using the hiring manager’s name is an easy way to make a good immediate first impression and show that you’ve done your research.

Dear Hiring Manager is also acceptable. Using To Whom It May Concern isn’t ideal because it sounds overly formal and generic.

C. Introduction Paragraph

Your introduction paragraph is where you introduce yourself as a candidate to the hiring manager. Use this space to highlight:

• how much relevant experience you have
• where you found the job opening
• why you want to apply for this specific job

D. Body Paragraphs

Your second paragraph (and third if you have lots of experience) should address the responsibilities listed in the job description. How can your skills and experience help you handle those responsibilities?

When writing your cover letter you can also use bullet points in the middle if you want to highlight major career achievements and/or awards.

E. Conclusion Paragraph

Your cover letter closing paragraph is where you aim to set up an interview. Start by expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity, and suggest setting up a time to discuss further. Then, thank the hiring manager for their time.

F. Sign-off

No need to get creative here. Simply writing “Sincerely” followed by your name is the perfect way to sign off on your cover letter .

A resume is a document that provides a concise, neatly formatted overview of your professional qualifications. When writing your resume , make sure to include your relevant work experience, education, skills, and notable accomplishments.

There are six standard resume sections :

A. Contact Details

Your contact details are included in your resume header .

At a minimum, your contact details should include your:

• First and last name
• Email address
• Phone number

Additionally, you can add LinkedIn to your resume (make sure it’s up to date!), and your mailing address or city if you want to prove you live within commuting distance.

B. Introduction

The resume introduction comes after your contact details and provides a brief overview of your key qualifications and skills. Your introduction should include enough information to entice the hiring manager to continue reading your resume without being overly wordy.

• resume summary
• professional profile
• resume objective
• qualifications summary

C. Work Experience Section

The work experience section is the core of your resume. This section is where you list your previous job titles or any roles you’ve held that are relevant to the job you want to fill.

Your work history should be arranged with your most recent job at the top, and include the following information for each position:

• Company name
• Location (city and state)
• Dates of employment (month and year)

Each job entry generally includes three to five bullet points that highlight your key accomplishments and responsibilities in that role.

D. Skills Section

The resume skills section is where you list relevant job skills . Include a diverse mix of hard skills and soft skills to demonstrate that you’re a well-rounded candidate and can handle a variety of challenges.

E. Education Section

The resume’s education section is where you mention the basics of your education history. This includes at minimum your school names, highest degree earned, and majors and minors.

If you lack work experience, you can also list relevant coursework , your GPA (if it’s greater than 3.5), and any academic honors or awards that you feel make you more qualified for the job.

F. Awards Section (Optional)

You can add an additional section on your resume to list awards if you have any impressive honors you’d like to highlight.

Consider noting any of the following items:

• Academic Honors
• Scholarships
• Volunteer positions
• Professional Affiliations

There are four key differences between a cover letter and a resume:

1. Importance

Resumes are a requirement when you apply for work. On the other hand, cover letters are often necessary , but optional when a company specifically says to not include one.

Do resumes need cover letters?

It’s always best to include a cover letter for a resume because it provides a personal touch and makes your application stand out.

2. Structure

The standard cover letter format is similar to that of a business letter . It includes a heading, an introduction paragraph, body content, a conclusion paragraph, and a sign-off.

Meanwhile, there are three different resume formats , and each format emphasizes different sections of a resume.

Additionally, unlike a cover letter (which is mostly paragraphs), a resume is largely broken up into bullets.

Should your cover letter match your resume?

Yes, make sure you match the important details like your contact information on your resume and cover letter. We also recommend using the same design elements, such as font and colors, to make your application look consistent.

The purpose of your resume is to showcase your job qualifications. Your cover letter, on the other hand, can explain why those qualifications make you the ideal candidate for that particular role.

In addition, your cover letter complements your resume by expanding on specific experiences or qualifications that don’t fit within the space-constrained format of a resume.

The tone of a resume is more objective than that of a cover letter.

A cover letter’s tone varies depending on the job and industry, but should always have a little personality. Just make sure that personality is still professional and doesn’t detract from the letter’s content.

As a reference, here are two professional examples of a resume and a cover letter to use as inspiration when writing your own:

Cover letter for a customer service representative

Cover letter example (text version)

HANNAH RENNER

[email protected] | (895) 555-555 4397 Aaron Smith Drive Harrisburg, PA 17101

Tammie Jardine 531 Roosevelt Ave. Philadelphia, PA, 19019 (907) 541-1102 [email protected]

Dear Mrs. Jardine,

I’m excited to submit my enclosed application for the Call Center Representative position at Phone Sales Inc. With over 3 years of experience in sales and customer service, I’m confident that my skillset and passion for customer satisfaction make me an ideal fit for the role.

As a call center representative at Gibby Sales, I spent two years honing my upselling techniques, conflict resolution skills, and phone etiquette. In just five months on the job, my managers had me onboarding and training new employees. By the end of my employment at Gibby, I had achieved the following results:

• A consistent customer service rating of over 90%. • Regularly upsold products, generating a total of $25,000 in additional revenue for the company. • Resolved 96% of customer issues given to me while maintaining one of the highest satisfaction rates in the company.

It would be a fantastic opportunity to put my skills to the test as a member of the Phone Sales Inc. customer service team. Your company is one of the best in the industry at employee development, and I’m confident I could quickly become a contributing member of the team.

I am looking forward to discussing the position with you in more detail and am available by phone or email at any time most convenient for you. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Hannah Renner

Resume for a customer service representative

Resume example (text version)

Call Center Representative

Email: [email protected] Phone: 895 555 555 Address: 4397 Aaron Smith Drive Harrisburg, PA 17101 Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/Hannah.renner

RESUME SUMMARY

• Experienced: Customer service professional with 3+ years in call centers and the hospitality industry • Efficient: Proficient at handling numerous calls simultaneously and reliably resolving client issues in a timely manner • Bilingual: English – Native ; French – Fluent. Capable of providing excellent customer service in both languages

CALL CENTER REPRESENTATIVE Gibby Sales, Philadelphia, PA / September 2018 – Present • Handle 60+ customer interactions per day, providing personalized and helpful service to ensure satisfaction. • Memorize details of over 220 company products, and able to answer customer questions about them quickly and thoroughly. • Regularly generate an excess of $2,00 each month in additional revenue by successfully upselling customers • Maintain and update sales spreadsheets • Close at least 5 sales per day in both English and French • Onboarded and trained 4 new employees in customer interaction, upselling, and conflict resolution

HOSTESS Fat Larry’s Canoli House, Swarthmore, PA / June 2016– August 2017 • Greeted an average of 200 guests per day and escorted them to their tables • Organized and scheduled reservations for 20+ customers daily over the phone and online • Presented the restaurant’s weekly specials and upsold customers on drink options

English – Native French – Fluent

SOFT SKILLS

Interpersonal Skills Collaboration Problem Solving Patient

HARD SKILLS

Microsoft Office Suite Google Drive Suite 70 WPM Typist Quickbooks

B.A. ENGLISH Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, PA 2016

Conrad Benz

Content Manager

Conrad Benz is a Content Manager and Hiring Manager at Resume Genius. With 5+ years of experience as a career services professional, Conrad is passionate about helping people navigate the job search process and find fulfilling work. You can find Conrad’s career insights in publications like Typsy, Resume Library, CompTIA, and more. Conrad graduated with a B.A. in International Relations from Goucher College in Maryland and currently lives in Taipei, Taiwan, where he helps ensure every article on Resume Genius provides job seekers with the information they need to succeed. If you want to reach Conrad for a quote or media-related inquiry, you can contact him at [conrad] @ [resumegenius.com].

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How to write a cover letter

Best practices to show why you're the best fit!

Cover letters are a place for you to tell your story outside of strictly formatted documents or question-and-answers that might be part of an application. They serve as a writing sample, giving a clear example of your written communication skills. You absolutely need a unique cover letter for every application, rather than just changing the name of the position you’re applying to.

What's included in a cover letter?

The goal of a cover letter is to convince the reader that you are genuinely interested in a specific position at a specific organization and highlight that you (due to your most relevant skills/experiences) are a good fit for the position, the organization and the industry.

Your cover letter should provide insight into how you are uniquely suited for the position. Read the job description a few times—what skills are being highlighted?

Use a formal letter format. Include your address, the date, the contact’s name and address. Whenever possible, address the letter to a (relevant) specific person. If not known, a phrase like “Hiring Manager” is acceptable.

Cover letters are typically three short paragraphs:

• Opening paragraph . State why you are writing, what you’re applying for/type of work you’re looking for, and (if relevant) how you heard about this position. Overall, this paragraph should introduce why this letter exists and why you're interested in the position.
• Middle paragraph . Explain why you are interested in working for this employer and in this kind of position. Relevant past experience can be helpful, but they’ll see your resume. Only include past experience if there’s something specific you want to say about it (like, the course you took being your motivation for this kind of work). Highlight your skills or abilities that are relevant to this job. Avoid words like “try,” “somewhat,” etc. when describing your experience. Stay factual, optimistic and confident. That’s who recruiters are trying to hire.
• Closing paragraph . Reiterate your interest in the position and your enthusiasm to join this organization. Thank them for their consideration of your application, and state that you look forward to hearing from them, and to the opportunity to discuss the position further, etc.

What are some other tips for cover letters?

Cover letters should most often be a single, one-sided page. Keep it short and to the point! It’s ok if your first draft is longer. Editing it down from a longer draft helps you keep the best bits, making a stronger letter overall.

If you're not sure what a good cover should look like, research examples from reputable sources. There are hundreds of resources from job-finding websites to university career services that can help you find examples of good cover letters.

Another tip is to put the cover letter down for a few weeks, then pick it up and pretend you’re the hiring manager. Would you hire the letter writer? As with everything, get as many people (roommate, college career counselors, your undergraduate advisor) to review your documents and give their insight. Is it well-written? Would they hire you? Does it sound like you?

A few don’ts for cover letter writing

• Don't apologize for skills you don’t have. Instead highlight why you are qualified.
• Don't use one cover letter to cover all of your bases. Be sure your cover letter is targeted to each position you apply for.
• Don't strictly reference your resume, which focuses on your list of accomplishments. In a professional, conversational manner, discuss the relevant info in your resume, providing further insight into how you’re a good fit.

Last Published 7/25/24

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Resume Writing Tips

What is a resume

What is a Resume?

Your resume is a concise summary of your qualifications that relate to the position for which you are applying. It serves as an advertisement of what you have to offer and creates a prospective employer’s first impression of you. Employers screen resumes in between 2.5 and 10 seconds, so your resume should quickly capture the reader’s interest.  A resume distills to one page all of your education, training, leadership, and work experience in relationship to your potential value to an employer or an opportunity.

Brainstorm a list of experiences and skills that you might want to include in a resume. Consider your academic background, paid and volunteer work or internships, research projects, awards, and special skills. Once you have compiled your list, you can start organizing this information to the position or industry that you are targeting.

Gathering Career Information

After you have completed your personal inventory and have developed your career goals, you will then want to research these career areas and those employers that are active in them. For each potential position you need to know the qualifications, duties, and skills required for the job, and any special talents or personal characteristics sought by the employer.

Organizing Your Resume

Your name, address, telephone number, and email address are centered at the top of the page or placed to one side. Do not use headings such as "name," "telephone," "resume." This information is self-evident and the headings are unnecessary.

If you state a career objective, it should be brief, concise and address the current job only, not future career plans. This category should be used only when your job objective is clear or definite.

Your educational history should be placed near or at the top of the page if it is your most important qualification. Under this heading include the names of schools, degrees, major, minor or concentration and dates received or expected graduation.

These areas can be titled "Work Experience," or "Professional Experience,”  “Volunteer Experience,”  Internship Experience" or "Related Experience.” In describing your work experience, use action words which will show your strengths and skills.

This category can include club and professional memberships, awards, honors, volunteer experience, and community service.

Skills included should be hard skills, technical experience, or knowledge of another language. Academic or work accomplishments can be included.

Choosing a Format

There is no single prescribed resume format but the two basic styles of resumes are chronological and functional. Some resumes use features of both and are called combination resumes. 

• This is the most widely used and familiar format. The experience section is listed in chronological order, starting with your most recent experience. It is most effective when the job target is in line with your experience and academic background.
• If your most relevant experience for a particular career field was not your most recent, it can be featured by creating two "experience" sections. These can be called "Related Experience" and "Other Work Experience." By separating the information into two categories, you can maintain a chronological format while emphasizing your most pertinent skills.
• The functional resume highlights skills and accomplishments and de-emphasizes specific job titles, organizations, and dates of employment. Functional resumes are appropriate if you have held a number of unrelated jobs, the position that you are seeking is outside the academic field, or there are significant gaps in your work history.

General Resume Guidelines

• Font : Use an easy-to-read font such as Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, Cambria, or Garamond.
• Size : Stay between 10 pt. and 12 pt. Your name can be larger than 12 pt.
• Margins   : 0 .5-1” margins all around
• Must be well-organized, neat, and concise.
• Proofread to make sure grammar, punctuation, and spelling are flawless.
• Use "bulleted" statements rather than complete sentences where appropriate.
• Use quantities, amounts, dollar values where they enhance the description of what you did.
• Do not use "I".
• Do not include hobbies, avocational, or social interests.
• Put the strongest statements or qualifications at the top.

Common Mistakes in a Resume

• Spelling Mistakes -   Be sure that there are no spelling errors, poor word choice, or misuse of language.
• Repetitive Words   -   Do not use the same action verb repeatedly to describe your work experience.   List of action verbs
• Leaving Out Dates-   It might seem like you are trying to hide certain information.
• Just having One Version   -   Tailor your résumé for each job for which you are applying.
• No Cover Letter-   A cover letter should be sent out with every résumé.
• Unprofessional Email Address   - Use a professional address such as your school email or email that only includes your first and last name.
• Cluttered Information - Filter out information that might seem irrelevant to the position.
• Including Personal Information   -   Personal information, like age, gender, and head shot should not be included on your résumé (unless you are a performing arts student).
• Using Abbreviations or Contractions   - Be sure to omit abbreviations or contractions in your words or sentences.

Resume Writing & Review Platforms

View Resume Samples and utilize Action Verbs to enhance your resume.

Hiration Coming Fall 2024!

Hiration: Your New Virtual Resume Assistant

Resumes are a vital part of you landing your dream job. To get that standout resume, you now have access to a powerful and easy-to-use automated online resume review platform from Hiration, your Virtual Resume Assistant.

Get instant feedback from Hiration right after submitting your resume. Analyze your resume anytime, anywhere, 24/7. So no need to wait for someone to have your resume reviewed.

Visit our Hiration Page to learn more!

Titan Resume Builder

The objective of the Titan Resume Builder is to help students produce higher quality resumes on a 24/7 basis on- or off-campus through the portal.

It is easy to use, with examples specified to majors and fields of study. The Titan Resume Builder allows you to build, manage, and control multiple resumes.

Access Titan Resume Builder    Note: You will be prompted to login with your portal username and password if you are not already logged in.

If you need assistance with any aspect of this service, please contact the Career Center at   [email protected] .

Cover Letter Tips

An effective cover letter is just as important as an effective resume. The cover letter accompanies the resume - it is the piece of paper that the prospective employer sees first. You should write a cover letter even if the employer/recruiter does not require one.

The cover letter is an opportunity to:

• Direct the resume to a specific person.
• Describe briefly what you know about the job and employer.
• Provide key qualifications that relate to the specific position for which you are applying.

Pain Free Cover Letter  pdf file PDF file type   - A Step-by-Step Guide

Utilize   grammarly@edu,  a free CSUF student resource, to help with your grammar and  writing style for your cover letter. 

Writing a Cover Letter

Part 1: "Make the Match" - A Brief Introduction Statement

If you have been referred by someone known to the company, (an employee, alumnus, a professor, etc.) use that person's name in your opening paragraph, and indicate why the contact referred you to that particular company or position opening. If you do not have a personal referral, the introduction should include why you are writing, much like an objective or profile summary on a resume.

Part 2: "Make the Case" - Why Should They Hire You?

This section of the cover letter is where you build an argument for why you should be hired by highlighting your key strengths and skills. Do not repeat the content of your resume, but point to the skills and experience in your resume that relate to the position. You can provide examples and details that support your qualifications. If you are able to make a compelling case for your candidacy in this section, the employer will look at your resume for confirmation of your claims.

Part 3: "Make the Close" - Finish Strong

The last section "closes" the letter by recapping what you have to offer and how you are a fit for the position. It suggest that the reader look at your resume, give it positive consideration, and schedule you for an interview. Also, state what your own next action will be.

Follow-Up & Thank You letters

• An appropriate way to maintain contact with the interviewer. These letters should be brief and should express your appreciation for the interview and confirm your interest in the company.
• Send a thank you letter for every contact. It can be an email or a handwritten letter.
• Write it on the same day as the interview if possible.
• Be personal, specific, and genuine in your thanks.
• Correct any significant misunderstanding you may have realized after the interview.
• There are different ways to decline an offer, depending on the history of your contact with the employer or recruiter. If the offer comes in an email or a voice mail message, your best option would be to respond promptly. It is important that you display your professionalism throughout all stages of the job search, even if you are not interested in the job.

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How to Write a Resume

The basics of resumes, steps for creating your own resume.

You may have heard complaints from friends and family like, “I’ve applied to hundreds of jobs, but nobody ever calls me back.” Statements like this may surprise you since help wanted signs are everywhere, but often, the issue isn’t a lack of employment opportunities. You generally still need an impressive resume to score a position even when your area has plenty of job openings. After all, it’s unlikely you’ll be the only applicant, so you need something that sets you apart from other job hunters.

Many hiring managers view hundreds — sometimes even thousands — of resumes for each open position, and they typically spend less than 60 seconds looking at each one before deciding whether the candidate is interview worthy. In fact, nearly 1 in 4 hiring managers confess they spend less than 30 seconds reviewing each resume. You have very little time to make a favorable first impression, but you can up your odds by providing accurate, appropriate information.

When you finish with your resume, don’t forget to write a matching cover letter. Download one of our free cover letter templates and get started.

Feeling the pressure yet? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’ve created this detailed guide to take you through every step of the resume process, from choosing the correct format to avoiding red flags that may cost you your dream job.

Submitting a resume for an available position is the equivalent of swiping right or clicking the heart on a dating profile. You’re connected with the other party, but that doesn’t mean you’ve officially scored a phone call or a face-to-face meeting. Your words are important, and the wrong phrase can get you sent to the rejection list. That’s why it’s crucial that you learn the following resume basics before you apply for another job.

What's the Purpose of a Resume?

Anyone can express interest in a job opening, but that doesn’t mean they have the right skills or training. A resume lets an employer know that you’re qualified for a position, either through your educational history, work experience or a combination of the two. You can also share volunteer work, internships and externships on a resume if they help show why you’re a great fit for the position you want.

Think of a resume as your social media profile for hiring managers. When a stranger sends you a friend request or comments on a group post, you may skim their profile to learn more about them. If they seem like an okay person, you may decide to give them a chance. However, inappropriate content or posts that don’t mesh with your beliefs may cause you to press the ignore or decline button.

A resume lets an employer know that you're qualified for a position, either through your educational history, work experience or a combination of the two.

This is basically how things work in the business world, too. When you apply for a position, the hiring manager glances at your resume quickly before deciding whether you’re worthy of an interview. Red flags, such as typos or profanity, may keep you from landing an interview even if you’re well qualified for the position.

What Are the Main Elements of a Resume?

For starters, every resume should have your name at the top of the page so the hiring manager knows who you are. You should also include contact info, such as your phone number, email address and postal address.

After you provide this basic information, create an objective for your resume. An objective lets the interviewer know who you are, what experience you have and what type of position you want. Keep your objective short; one to three sentences are enough.

Back up your objective by listing key skills, employment history and educational background. If this is your first job, focus on skills, training or volunteer work instead. You can also list freelance gigs when relevant. For example, a five-star rating at a 1099 gig delivering groceries shows you have strong customer service skills, and a freelance blogging gig indicates you have excellent verbal communication skills. Mention that you volunteer at vacation Bible school if you’re applying for a daycare, and share your role as a foster parent for furry friends to help you land a gig as a vet tech.

Some applicants also add hobbies, interests, spoken languages, publications, projects and industry awards to their resumes. These can help you stand out if you’re applying for a job where this information matters, but sometimes it’s overkill. You may want to mention that you’re bilingual if you’re applying for a call center job, but it may not matter if you want a job at a local clothing boutique. Tailor your qualifications to the position you want unless you’re creating a general resume that you plan to use for multiple applications.

What Are Some Red Flags for Hiring Managers?

Hiring managers skim your resume quickly in search of obvious red flags. Grammatical errors and typos can immediately land you on the rejection list and so can profanity and slang. You should also avoid anything that hints toward instability, such as mentioning you’ve had 20 jobs in the last five years. Keep personal info, such as the fact that you have kids or are married, off of your resume, and don’t include a photo unless you’re applying for a modeling job.

Inaccurate info can also cost you a position, especially if it’s obvious. Don’t pretend you have a degree that doesn’t exist, and be truthful about certifications and work experience. It’s easy to get caught lying on a resume even if nobody calls to verify your information.

Resumes come in different formats, including chronological, functional, combination and targeted styles. Your education, employment history and career goals should influence which type you choose. Job hunters who want a classic resume should go with a chronological format, while applicants with more education than experience can benefit from a functional resume. A combination resume lists skills as well as chronological work experience, and a targeted resume focuses on qualifications that match a specific job listing.

The steps for creating a resume are generally the same no matter which format you prefer. We’ve broken them down for you in our step-by-step instructions below.

1. List Your Contact Information at the Top

A recruiter shouldn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt to learn your identity. Make it obvious by including contact info at the top of your resume. Start with your name then provide a phone number, email address and mailing address. You may also want to include a link to your website, portfolio or LinkedIn profile. Consider using a slightly different font for your name so that it stands out.

Your contact information may look something like this:

Lincoln Tavera

123 Main St., Boston, MA 02111 [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 linkedin.com/in/lincolntavera

Do not include your date of birth or Social Security number on your resume. You should also avoid sending a headshot unless your potential employer specifically requests one.

Avoid using a nickname, and make sure your email address is professional. Some hiring managers may reject your application if you use an email address like [email protected] even if you would have otherwise been contacted for an interview. Potential employers want to know that you can separate your personal life from your professional life.

2. Share Your Objective or Summary

As we mentioned earlier, some hiring managers don’t even dedicate a full 30 seconds to your resume, let alone take time to look at the entire thing. That’s why it’s important to highlight why you’re a qualified candidate before they even have time to review your full employment history or educational achievements. You can do this by creating an objective or summary.

Anyone can use an objective statement on their resume, but it works especially well if you have more training than actual work experience. Your objective lets you highlight your education, such as a degree in business administration or an internship at a respected magazine. You can also mention skills or qualifications, such as an outgoing personality or a strong knowledge of Adobe PhotoShop.

Here’s an example of a brief objective statement:

Retailer manager with 5 years of experience seeking a leadership role where I can utilize my strong customer service skills to boost sales and improve shopper satisfaction.

A resume summary works best when you have relevant experience to summarize. If you’re a teacher seeking a new position, you can mention you’ve taught for 17 years at an elementary school and hold a certificate in special education training. Mention your management experience at a local health care clinic if you want a front desk position at a hospital, or share how your skills as a sales manager boosted company revenue by 12% if you’re seeking a new commission-based job.

When writing a resume summary, you may say something like this:

Results-driven social media manager with seven years of experience ready to revamp your brand’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram profiles. Previous campaigns averaged an 85% click-through rate and boosted lead collection by 30%. I’m creative, engaging and up-to-date on current trends.

Remember to only choose a statement or objective for your resume. Including both can make your resume look cluttered and unprofessional.

3. List Work Experience

Work experience lets a hiring manager know that you have the skills needed to do the job. There are several different ways you can approach work experience on your resume:

• List all jobs in chronological order, beginning with your current or most recent position and working backwards.
• Only list relevant jobs, such as jobs involving children or education if you’re applying for a position as a daycare manager or sales jobs if you want a marketing position.
• Mentioning volunteer work, internships and externships in the format usually reserved for employment history if this is your first job.

Listing all of your jobs is common if you use a chronological format for your resume. However, this is not ideal if you’ve had numerous gaps in your employment, even if the gaps were due to unexpected circumstances such as illness or a spouse’s military relocation. If you have an extensive work history, limit yourself to the last 10 or 15 years. It’s not necessary to mention that you made hamburgers or washed cars for a year in high school unless you’re a recent college graduate.

Focusing on relevant work experience works well in a targeted resume, and it can make you look more stable. You may consider yourself a jack of all trades when you think about your eclectic work history, but a hiring manager may deem you unstable or fear you may leave for a different industry.

Don’t forget to mention achievements, preferably ones that you can back up with data. Mention if you improved company revenue by 15% or decreased customer complaints by 10%, and highlight achievements, such as an employee of the year award or a certificate for managing the top-earning sales team.

4. Include Your Educational Background

Many employers prefer candidates with some type of formal training even if you don’t have a college degree. List all of your relevant education on your resume, from the bachelor’s degree you received 10 years ago to the special certifications you earned during summer break. You may also want to mention internships and externships, especially if you haven’t had much work experience in your field yet.

When you list your education history, put your highest degree first, such as a master’s degree or doctorate. Follow this up with other degrees or certifications, even if you haven’t completed the program yet. For example, you can say you are currently pursuing a master’s degree in creative writing if you already have a bachelor’s degree in marketing. List your master’s degree first even though it isn’t complete then mention your bachelor’s degree below.

You may also find it helpful to mention awards or special honors, such as a 4.0 GPA, on your resume. Leave this information off if your GPA reveals that you barely survived your college years.

5. Mention Your Key Skills

When adding skills to your resume, make sure you include a combination of hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills involve a specific program or duty, such as being able to use Microsoft Office Suite or bake an apple pie from scratch. Soft skills include career skills and personal traits, such as being an effective leader or having an outgoing personality.

Focus on skills that match what the company wants. If the employment ad says a company wants someone who won’t flake on work constantly, mention that you are dependable or punctual. If you’re applying for a customer service position, don’t mention that you’re CPR certified. Instead, say that you have strong customer service skills or enjoy working in a fast-paced environment.

Don’t lie about your job skills, especially when listing hard skills. It’s likely your potential employer will find out, as many companies test applicants prior to offering them a position. You may also have a probation period after you get the job, and your boss will quickly notice if you can’t actually create an Excel spreadsheet or use Slack to schedule meetings.

6. Proofread Your Resume

A single typo may result in a rejection letter, so proofread your resume before you submit it. Consider having a second set of eyes, such as a friend or former colleague, look at your resume as well. Sometimes our brains skim over our own mistakes because we know what something is supposed to say, so enlisting help makes it easier to catch errors you overlooked.

Double-check your contact info, too. A hiring manager can’t offer you the job of your dreams if you accidentally transposed some digits in your phone number or listed an email address that you rarely check. If you’ve recently moved, make sure you have the correct postal address listed.

7. Include a Cover Letter

When you apply for a job, include a cover letter with your resume. This is an optional step, but it may help you land the job you want. In fact, some hiring managers automatically reject resumes that aren’t accompanied by cover letters.

A cover letter gives you a chance to showcase your personality and explain things listed in your resume. You can highlight achievements, mention how you learned about a position and discuss why you feel you’re a qualified candidate. This is a good time to name drop by saying sales manager Jackson Baker told you about the open position or Professor Johnson, a long-time friend of the company’s owner, referred you.

A resume is an essential part of your job hunt. Increase your chances of scoring an interview by crafting an impressive resume that reflects your skills and personality traits.

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7.7: Vocabulary Terms - Module 7

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• Regina Pierce-Brown
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Campus Calendar

Today is Sunday, August 04, 2024

Career Bootcamp 1: Resumes, Cover Letters, & Job Searching (Virtual)

August 6, 2024

11:00am - 12:00pm.

Career Center

Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, GA  30332-0105

Phone:  404-894-3320

Fax:  404-894-7308

Email: [email protected]

Website:  http://www.career.gatech.edu

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Are you gearing up for your job search? Join us to learn best practices for resume writing, cover letters, and job search best practices.

https://gatech.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5nSHIKbDR2G4CADpPotxoQ

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Writing Resumes and Cover Letters | CSN Fall Series

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Writing professional documents can feel overwhelming. Let the Career Services Network help you share your professional story in this workshop focused on writing and formatting your resume and cover letter. Join Zoom Meeting:  Visit Handshake to RSVP and receive Zoom link. resume As a result of this session, students will be able to: – Describe the purpose and goal of a resume and the basic content areas to include – Identify formatting options to make their resume clear, concise, and well-organized in order to be easily scanned by screen readers and applicant tracking systems – Implement strategies for tailoring their resume to align with a job description – Understand and apply the WHO method to communicate skills, qualifications, and outcomes through bullet point statements – Identify interests, skills, and experiences that best illustrate their connections to the job description and organization- Describe the format of a typical business letter to be utilized in a cover letter

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