cover letter on email or attachment

How To Write an Effective Email Cover Letter (Template + Examples)

3 key takeaways

• An email cover letter is typically sent alongside a resume.
• Learn the structure and format of a winning email cover letter, and how to create your own.
• Teal’s AI Cover Letter Generator simplifies the process of creating cover letters tailored to each job.

When applying for a job online, an email cover letter is a crucial part of your application. It's your introduction, providing a personalized narrative that complements your resume and demonstrates your fit for the role.

A well-written email cover letter can distinguish you from other candidates and improve your chances of securing an interview.

This guide walks through best practices for writing an email cover letter, emphasizing the importance of personalization and professionalism.

Struggling to craft the perfect email cover letter? Get started with Teal’s AI Cover Letter Generator for free.

What is an email cover letter?

An email cover letter is a document sent with your resume when applying for a job online or via email. It's an introduction to your qualifications and interest in the role.

Email cover letters have become a standard part of the job application process, often serving as the first impression you make on a potential employer.

The primary role of an email cover letter is to complement your resume by providing context and a personalized narrative that demonstrates your fit for the position. An effective email cover letter can set you apart from other candidates and increase your chances of securing an interview.

Why email cover letters matter

Crafting a compelling email cover letter is more important today than ever before.

A well-written email cover letter can make the difference between your application being noticed or getting lost in a "maybe" bin with other candidates. It lets you showcase your personality, highlight your most relevant skills and experiences, and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and company.

Plus, an impressive email cover letter can set the stage for a successful job interview.

It gives hiring managers a glimpse into your communication skills, attention to detail, and professionalism—all qualities employers highly value. A memorable email cover letter can pique the hiring manager's interest and make them eager to learn more about you during an interview.

In essence, your email cover letter is a powerful tool for marketing yourself, distinguishing your application, and increasing your chances of landing your dream job.

How to write an effective email cover letter

An effective email cover letter requires a strategic approach to capture the employer's attention and demonstrate your suitability for the role.

Follow these steps to craft a compelling email cover letter:

1. Craft an attention-grabbing subject line

Your subject line is the first thing the employer sees, so make it count. Use a clear and concise subject line that includes the job title and your name.

Marketing Manager Position - John Doe.

2. Address the recipient appropriately

Start your email cover letter with a proper salutation, addressing the hiring manager by name, if possible. If the name is unavailable, use a respectful greeting. 

Dear hiring manager,

3. Write an engaging introductory paragraph

In the opening paragraph, briefly introduce yourself, express your enthusiasm for the role, and provide a hook that piques the reader's interest.

Consider mentioning a mutual connection or a notable achievement relevant to the position.

4. Highlight your qualifications and fit for the role

The main body of your email cover letter should showcase your qualifications, experiences, and skills that align with the job requirements.

Quantify your resume and provide specific examples that demonstrate your potential value to the company. Mention how you can contribute to their success and why you are the ideal candidate.

Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator helps job seekers craft compelling cover letters that effectively highlight their accomplishments. 

Teal is able to analyze job descriptions to identify the most relevant skills and experiences to emphasize. It then helps you articulate these professional achievements more clearly and persuasively, ensuring your cover letter stands out.

Whether you're detailing a project that boosted sales by 25 percent or explaining how you led a successful team, Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator ensures your accomplishments are presented in the most impactful way, increasing your chances of making a strong impression on potential employers.

5. Express enthusiasm and a call to action

Conclude your email cover letter by reiterating your interest in the role and the company.

Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and provide a call to action, such as requesting an interview or discussing your qualifications further.

6. Use a professional sign-off

End your email cover letter with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely," "Best regards," or "Thank you for your consideration."

Need help overcoming writer's block? Learn how to generate a great cover letter with ChatGPT cover letter prompts .

Tips for writing compelling email cover letters

Writing your first cover letter can be intimidating. Follow these tips to set yourself up for success:

• Keep it concise and focused: Aim for a length of three to four paragraphs, highlighting your most relevant qualifications and experiences.
• Personalize for each application: Tailor your email cover letter to the specific job and company, demonstrating your understanding of their needs and how you can contribute.
• Proofread carefully: Ensure your email cover letter is free from spelling, grammatical, and formatting errors, as it reflects your attention to detail.
• Incorporate keywords from the job description: Use relevant keywords and phrases from the job posting to show your alignment with the role's requirements.

Following a clear, professional format is crucial for creating an email cover letter that makes a strong first impression.

Writing email cover letters with AI

Struggling to craft the perfect cover letter for each job application? Research and compare the best AI cover letter writers to avoid writer’s block.

Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator takes the stress out of the process, allowing you to create effective, tailored cover letters in minutes, not hours.

With just a few clicks, its AI personalizes your cover letter to match any job description, highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences.

Plus, Teal intelligently adds keywords from the job descriptions to help make your cover letter more ATS-friendly, ensuring your application stands out with a professional, customized cover letter every time.

Proper email cover letter format

The standard parts of an email cover letter include:

1. Subject line

Your email cover letter's subject line is the first thing a hiring manager or recruiter will see. It's your chance to make a strong first impression and entice them to open your email.

When crafting your subject line, aim for clarity and conciseness.

Clearly state the purpose of your email, such as "Application for [Job Title] - [Your Name]."

This immediately lets the reader know what the email is about and who it's from.

Avoid using generic subject lines like "Resume" or "Job Application.” While descriptive, those terms are too vague and overused in application subject lines and, therefore, more likely to be overlooked.

To make your subject line stand out, consider including a unique selling point or achievement that aligns with the job requirements. This gives the reader a reason to learn more about you.

Lastly, keep your subject line short and sweet, ideally under 60 characters. That way it won't get cut off in the recipient's inbox preview.

Email cover letter subject line example:

Experienced Software Developer with Expertise in [Relevant Skill]

2. Salutation

One of the most important aspects of your email cover letter is addressing it to the right person.

Whenever possible, aim to find the hiring manager's name or person responsible for filling the position. This shows you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the role.

To find the hiring manager's name, review the job posting carefully. Sometimes, the contact person doesn't have their name listed in the ad. If not, visit the company's website and look for a "Team" or "About Us" page. You might find the name of the department head there.

If you still can't find a name, try searching for the company on LinkedIn. Look for people with titles like "Hiring Manager," "Recruiter," or "Human Resources Manager." You can also search for the head of the department related to the position.

If you exhaust all these options and still can't find a name, using a general salutation is okay.

"Dear Hiring Manager," "Dear Recruiting Team," or "Dear [Department] Team" are all appropriate choices. Avoid outdated salutations like "Dear Sir or Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern."

3. Opening paragraph

Your opening paragraph captures the hiring manager's attention and entices them to read further.

Keep your opening paragraph of your email cover letter short and impactful, ideally no more than three to four sentences.

Remember, your goal is to quickly capture the hiring manager's interest and encourage them to continue reading your email cover letter to discover how you can contribute to their organization's success.

Try the following to get started: 

• Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and the company to make a strong first impression.
• Briefly mention how you discovered the position, whether it was through a job board, referral, or the company's website.
• Explain why you are interested in the role and company.
• Showcase your knowledge of the company’s mission, values, or recent achievements.
• Highlight one or two key qualifications that make you an excellent fit for the position.

Email cover letter intro example:

I was thrilled to come across the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name] on [Job Board]. With my 5+ years of experience in digital marketing and my passion for data-driven strategies, I am confident I would be a valuable asset to your team.

4. Body paragraphs

One of the most important aspects of crafting an effective email cover letter is showcasing your relevant skills and experience.

To make a strong impression on the hiring manager, carefully select the most impressive and pertinent qualifications from your background that align with the job requirements.

• Review the job description and identify the key skills, experience, and qualities the employer is seeking.
• Choose examples from your work history that demonstrate your proficiency in these areas.
• If the job posting emphasizes strong project management abilities, highlight a time when you successfully led a complex project from start to finish.
• Provide concrete details about your role, the challenges you faced, and the positive outcomes you achieved.
• Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible using hard numbers and metrics.
• Instead of stating you "improved sales," specify that you "boosted sales by 25% within the first quarter."
• Incorporate keywords and phrases from the job description into your email cover letter.

Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen candidates based on the presence of specific keywords. Naturally integrating these terms into your resume and cover letter also increases your chances of passing through the ATS and landing an interview.

Remember, the goal is to clarify to the hiring manager that you possess the necessary skills and experience to excel in the role.

5. Add a call to action

As you wrap up your email cover letter, be sure to finish strong and leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager. This is your golden opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company, as well as your confidence in the fit.

Start by briefly recapping your key qualifications and how they align with the position's requirements. This reinforces why you're a strong candidate and reminds the reader of the value you can bring to their team.

Then, clearly state your desire to further discuss the opportunity and learn more about how you can contribute to the organization's success.

This call-to-action demonstrates your proactive approach and eagerness to take the next step in the hiring process.

6. Signature

Finally, end with a polite and professional sign-off.

Best regards, Sincerely, Thank you for your consideration.

Include your full name and contact details below your sign-off to make it easy for the hiring manager to reach out to you.

By leveraging AI to streamline formatting, you can ensure each email cover letter maintains a polished, professional appearance while focusing your time on tailoring the content to make a compelling case for your candidacy.

Need a bit of added help? Check out this resource to learn how to format your cover letter and stand out from the crowd.

Email cover letter sample

To help you visualize what an effective email cover letter looks like, let's explore a few examples for different scenarios:

Email cover letter example: marketing manager position

Subject : Experienced Marketing Manager Excited About [Company Name] Opportunity Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], I was thrilled to come across the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name]. With my 5+ years of experience leading successful marketing campaigns and driving brand growth, I am confident I would be a valuable addition to your team. In my current role at [Current Company], I have spearheaded several digital marketing initiatives that have increased website traffic by 40% and generated a 20% increase in lead conversions. I am well-versed in developing data-driven strategies and collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve measurable results. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s mission of [Company Mission] and believe my skills and experience align perfectly with the goals you aim to achieve. I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to your marketing efforts and help drive your company's continued success. Thank you for considering my application. You will find my resume attached for your review and look forward to the possibility of an interview. Best regards,  [Your Name]

Why it works

This email cover letter works effectively for several reasons:

• Personalized salutation : Addressing the hiring manager by name shows that the applicant has taken the time to research and personalize their application, which demonstrates genuine interest in the position and company.
• Clear and enthusiastic introduction : The opening sentence clearly states the position applied for and expresses enthusiasm, capturing the hiring manager's attention right away.
• Relevant experience and achievements : The applicant highlights their 5+ years of experience and provides specific, quantifiable achievements, such as increasing website traffic by 40 percent and lead conversions by 20 percent. This demonstrates their ability to deliver results and adds credibility to their application.
• Alignment with company mission : By mentioning the company’s mission and explaining how their skills and experience align with the company's goals, the applicant shows they have researched the company and understand its values and objectives.
• Collaborative skills : The applicant emphasizes their ability to work with cross-functional teams and develop data-driven strategies, showcasing their collaborative and analytical skills, which are valuable in a marketing role.
• Professional and polite closing : The closing paragraph reiterates the applicant’s interest in the role, thanks the hiring manager for their consideration, and includes a call to action by expressing eagerness for an interview. This leaves a positive and proactive impression.
• Attachment of resume : Mentioning the attached resume ensures the hiring manager is aware of where to find it, providing a complete picture of the applicant's qualifications.

Overall, this email cover letter is concise, well-structured, and tailored to the specific job and company, effectively showcasing the applicant's qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.

Email cover letter example: software developer position

Subject : Passionate Software Developer Ready to Contribute to [Company Name] Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], I am writing to express my strong interest in the Software Developer position at [Company Name]. As a skilled developer with extensive experience in [Programming Languages/Frameworks], I am excited about the opportunity to bring my technical expertise to support your mission. During my time at [Current Company], I have been responsible for developing and maintaining several complex applications. One notable project involved creating a user-friendly web application that streamlined internal processes, resulting in a 30% increase in efficiency. I pride myself on writing clean, maintainable code and collaborating effectively with team members. I am impressed by [Company Name]'s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and creating cutting-edge solutions. I believe that my problem-solving skills and passion for innovation make me an ideal fit for your development team. I have attached my resume, which further highlights my qualifications and experience. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name]'s success. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,  [Your Name]

This email cover letter works well for several reasons:

• Personalized salutation : Addressing the hiring manager by name shows the applicant has taken the time to research and personalize their application, demonstrating genuine interest in the position and company.
• Relevant technical skills : The applicant mentions their experience with specific programming languages and frameworks, highlighting their technical expertise and aligning with the job requirements.
• Quantifiable achievements : The applicant provides a specific example of their work, noting a 30 percent increase in efficiency from a user-friendly web application they developed. This demonstrates their ability to deliver tangible results and showcases their impact on previous projects.
• Alignment with company goals : By expressing admiration for the company’s commitment to innovation and technology, the applicant shows they have researched the company and aligns with its values and mission.
• Highlighting key strengths : The applicant emphasizes their problem-solving skills, passion for innovation, and ability to write clean, maintainable code, which are essential qualities for a software developer.
• Attachment of resume : Mentioning the attached resume ensures that the hiring manager is aware of additional details supporting the application, providing a complete picture of the applicant's qualifications.

For more inspiration and guidance, check out Teal's extensive collection of cover letter examples spanning various industries and roles.

How to proofread and edit your email cover letter

A well-polished cover letter demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism, increasing your chances of impressing the hiring manager.

Before hitting send on your email cover letter, take the time to carefully proofread and edit your work by following these steps:

1. Review your email cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. Even minor mistakes can make you appear careless or unqualified.

2. Use spell-check tools and read through the content slowly to catch any typos or awkward phrasing.

3. Assess the overall flow and tone of your writing. Does your email cover letter have a logical progression of ideas? Is the tone appropriate for the company culture and industry?

4. Make sure your personality shines through while maintaining a professional demeanor.

5. Get a second opinion. Consider having a trusted friend, family member, or mentor review your email cover letter as well. 

A second set of eyes can often spot issues you may have missed and provide valuable feedback for improvement.

Remember, a little extra effort in the editing process can go a long way in making a positive first impression on potential employers.

How to send your email cover letter

Once you've crafted a compelling email cover letter, you need to send it correctly to ensure it reaches the hiring manager and makes the desired impact.

1. Use a professional email address

Create an email address that includes your name, such as [email protected] . Avoid using casual or outdated email addresses that could undermine your credibility.

2. Attach your cover letter and resume

Use widely accepted file formats such as PDF or Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx). PDF resumes are often preferred because they preserve the formatting and layout of your documents across different devices and platforms.

3. Name your attachments professionally

Name your attachments clearly, such as "FirstName_LastName_Cover_Letter.pdf" and "FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf."

This makes it easy for the hiring manager to identify and keep track of your application materials.

4. Double-check before sending

Before hitting send, double-check that you've attached both your cover letter and resume.

It's also a good idea to test your email by sending it to yourself or a friend to ensure that the attachments open correctly and the formatting appears as intended. This extra step can help you avoid any last-minute technical issues that could derail your application.

Write cover letters faster with Teal

Writing an effective email cover letter can be time-consuming and daunting, especially when you're applying for multiple positions.

Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator simplifies the process, allowing you to generate a compelling email cover letter in minutes.

The AI-powered Cover Letter Generator guides you through the essential components, ensuring you don't miss any crucial elements. Simply input key information about your background and the job you're applying for, and the tool will craft a personalized email cover letter that highlights your relevant skills and experience.

One of the most significant advantages of using Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator is its ability to create customized content for each application. The tool analyzes the job description and incorporates relevant keywords and phrases, demonstrating to hiring managers that you're a strong fit for the role. This level of customization can significantly increase your chances of standing out from other job seekers.

Rather than starting from scratch for each application, you can leverage AI suggestions to quickly assemble a polished email cover letter. This efficiency allows you to focus your energy on other aspects of your job search, such as networking and interview preparation.

Try out Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to write a cover letter in the email body.

It depends on the company size and hiring process. Small companies with fewer applications to manage may prefer the cover letter in the email, while larger companies will need it as an attachment to add to a candidate’s file.

Can the email message itself serve as the cover letter?

In some cases, the email message can serve as your cover letter, particularly if the job posting explicitly states this preference. If taking this approach, craft the email with the same level of care and attention you would give to a formal cover letter document.

How to choose between PDF and Word attachments?

When it comes to attaching your cover letter and resume, both PDF and Word resumes are generally accepted. PDFs are often preferred as they preserve the formatting and layout, ensuring your documents appear exactly as intended.

Nathan Thompson

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Email Cover Letter: 5 Samples & Writing Guide + Expert Tips

How do you write an email cover letter? Should you format it differently? Should you attach it? See 5 examples for different jobs to write a cover letter email that gets results.

Should you attach a cover letter to your email? Or should you write a cover letter in the body of your email?  It’s a real dilemma. But email covering letters are the new norm. Learn how to make it right.

In this guide:

• How to write a cover letter email that gets noticed.
• Why cover letters in emails should be short and snappy.
• Five great email cover letter templates for different jobs.
• Tips and examples to help you write the best letter in the stack.

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

This guide focuses on actionable examples . Need more detailed step-by-step instructions for sending a job application email? See our guide: Emailing a Resume to Get a Job: Resume Email Samples

Need all the steps to write your cover letter fast? Check our step-by-step guide on  how to write a cover letter .

How to Write an Email Cover Letter

You’re 40x more likely to get hired, if you apply directly to the hiring manager. But only 0.14% do it! The rest go through job boards and career sites. That’s from a study of 55 million applications !

Applying for a job via email will only work if you get your message across fast . Don’t make the manager open two attachments, one with a resume and another with a traditional cover letter. Write your cover letter in the email body so she can see your value right away.

Email cover letter format:

• Put your name in the subject line. Otherwise how will they find you later?
• Add the job title to the subject line and first line of your email.
• Use the 3-paragraph cover letter format , but keep it short and snappy.
• Find resume keywords in the job ad.
• Include one big achievement relevant to the job.

Expert Hint: Don’t forget to attach your resume to the cover letter in your email! Forgetting to attach your resume is a massive rookie mistake!

Need examples? This email cover letter sample is for a job that wants skills in raising revenue and cutting costs:

Sample Email Cover Letter for Professionals

Subject line: Project Manager PMP Stacy Anne Fetter Seeks position with Upwird IT (Job ID #77781)

Dear Mr. Holt,

I’ve attached my resume for the Project Manager position at Upwird.

I’m a Project Manager and PMP with 6+ years of experience. I cut costs 27% and raised revenue $450,000 in 7 months at Doherty-Welman Inc. I’m excited about the great Project Manager opening you’re offering. I know you’re looking for a candidate who can handle Lean training, project scheduling, and standardized work.

I’d love to share my achievements in those areas, including cutting costs $1.2 million with work standardization. Can we schedule a call to discuss?

Best Regards,

Stacy Anne Fetter

Project Manager PMP

linkedin.com/in/stacyannezfetter

[email protected]

812-241-4445

Why does that work?  Because it’s quick and easy to read. Plus, it teases the exact qualities Mr. Holt wants.

This next cover letter email sample is for a job that wants a software engineer. He or she must have a track record of excellent video game design:

Sample Cover Letter Email for Computer Science

Subject line: Software Engineer Carl Espinar Seeks position with BlockBinners (Job ID #72234)

Dear Ms. Gallardo,

I’ve attached my resume for the software engineer position at BlockBinners.

I’ve been a huge fan of your podcast for 5 years. I’ve studied your approach to game development religiously. I credit your ideas with my success at GameSezzl, where I was an integral part of the team that made 2nd runner up for a Game Developers Choice Award.

With 5+ years of experience in game design, C++, and Java, I think I’d make a great addition to your team. Could we set aside some time to talk next week?

Carl Espinar

Software Engineer

linkedin.com/in/carlzespinar

[email protected]

carlzespinar.com

402-871-0787

See the value?  You proved your skills so fast the manager got vertigo.  Even if she skims. 

Our next email cover letter example targets a job that wants a graphic designer. The perfect candidate has done great work for high-end clients.

Sample Email Cover Letter for Creatives

Subject line: Graphic Designer Sheryl Hood Seeks position with Ash-Litski (Job ID #72643)

Dear Mr. Cho,

I’ve attached my resume for the graphic designer position at Ash-Litski.

I’m an energetic graphic designer with 6+ years of experience. I’ve delivered logos and designs for web, print, and TV spots for clients like Arby’s, HP, Microsoft, Apple, and Walmart. In the past 5 years I’ve created 1,000+ high-impact designs—one of which received an AIDA award.

I’m so enthusiastic about working for Ash-Litski. Your client list and philosophy of hiring smart people and following their lead is refreshing. Can we set up a call?

Sheryl Hood

Graphic Designer

linkedin.com/in/sherylzhood

[email protected]

sherylzhood.com

302-983-9891

Can’t miss.  They want skill and high end clients. You just demonstrated both. This cover letter email sample aims for a job that needs a sales executive. (Must have a background of improving ROI.)

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 .

Sample Cover Letter Email for Executives

Subject line: Sales executive Tim Lukacs Seeks position with Dalton-Oort Global (Job ID #87723)

Dear Ms. Smith,

I’ve attached my resume for the sales executive position at Dalton-Oort Global.

Selling a great product is the first rule of sales. Dalton-Oort’s medical solutions solve massive, real problems. I believe your KardioSpy wearable ECG will revolutionize the medical industry. Even though I raised ROI 30% at Karma Microsystems through a program of training and outreach, I believe I could do so much more if motivated by products like yours.

I’ll be in New York next week. Could we set aside some time to meet and discuss your sales goals for the next ten years?

Kind Regards,

linkedin.com/in/timzlukacs

[email protected]

504-908-3037

First rate.  That letter sells exactly what they need. And does it quick.

This next email cover letter example is for a marketing intern. She must know how to run podcasts and assist with digital marketing campaigns.

Sample Email Cover Letter for Internships

Subject line: Marketing BS Heidi Parker seeks internship with Maunterz Inc. (Job ID #09912)

Dear Mr. Zimmer,

I’ve attached my resume for the marketing internship at Maunterz Inc.

I’m a marketing specialist and recent graduate of New Mexico State University, with a BS in Marketing. At school, I built and managed the student business podcast and created a digital marketing campaign that raised $14,000 for cancer research.

I’ve been following Maunterz Inc’s work for the past few months and I think your internship has a great mix of responsibility and training. Could we set up a call?

Heidi Parker

Marketing Specialist

linkedin.com/in/heidizparker

[email protected]

505-251-5424

Pow.  Quick, zappy, and personal. Plus, that “$14,000” grabs the eye.

Expert Tip: You don’t need copious address info at the top and bottom of an email cover letter. Just add your phone and email. Add LinkedIn and a portfolio site if you have them.

With ResumeLab’s resume builder you’ll write your resume in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now .

For an email cover letter that makes your phone ring:

• Make your cover letter email much shorter than a traditional letter.
• Get to the point right away: why you love the job and your best selling point.
• Use one big achievement in your letter to make them want to read your resume.
• Don’t attach a PDF cover letter when you send a cover letter in an email.
• Sending a cover letter as an email can boost your hiring chances 40x.

Need more cover letter resources? See:

• Free MS Word Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Header Templates and Examples
• General Cover Letter That’s Not Generic
• Free Google Docs Cover Letter Templates
• What to Include in a Cover Letter
• What to Write in an Email when Sending a Resume .

Got questions on how to write a great email cover letter? Want more great email cover letter samples? Leave a comment. We’re happy to reply.

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.

Having published over 200 career-advice articles, Tom Gerencer is a career expert who covers the whole array of job-seeking topics for people at all career stages, from interns to C-suite members. His insights, commentary, and articles reach over a million readers every month. With inside knowledge of key industry players and in-depth research, Tom helps job seekers with advice across all professions and career stages. Tom holds a degree in English from Colby College.

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Email Cover Letter and CV | Sending Tips and Examples

What is an email cover letter?

An email cover letter is essentially a job application email through which you apply for a job. The email must contain your cover letter, either in the body of the email or as an attachment, and your CV as a separate attachment.

Do you need to send your CV and cover letter via Email?

With the massive technological boom over the past decade, we have seen the dramatic rise in email applications. Sending an email is free, it doesn’t require a stamp, visit the post office or a trip to the company you’re applying for. It all happens within seconds and with just one click of a button.

There are two main reasons why you would send an email to a recruiter:

• When you’re applying for a job
• When you’re enquiring about job opportunities at their company

In this guide, we will mainly focus on applying for jobs that have already been advertised . However, read on as there are also tons of tips and examples for those who wish to inquire about job opportunities via email.

The format of an email cover letter + template

The format of an email cover letter slightly varies from the format of a standard cover letter. For example, there is no need to include your personal details such as name and address on the right side of the letter because your attached CV will already contain all this information. Moreover, it will take up valuable space.

Your email to the recruiter should be in the following format:

Click here to download this template.

Before you start…

1. Have your perfect CV and cover letter ready

Before working on drafting your email, make sure that you have already written and prepared your CV and cover letter. Check out How to write a Cover Letter and How to write a CV guides for more tips and examples.

2. Be formal

The job application process is a formal process. As such, you have to have a formal approach to writing your email job application.

• Don’t use contractions (e.g. I’m instead of ‘ I am ‘ or Let’s instead of ‘ Let us ‘)
• Write in complete sentences
• Write in paragraphs (not in short lines, as you would in text messaging)
• Use formal greeting (use ‘ Dear Sir/Madam ‘, ‘ Dear [Surname], ‘ or ‘ To whom it may concern ‘ rather than ‘ Hey ‘, ‘ Hi ‘, or ‘ What’s up? ‘)
• Don’t write in capitals (IT’S NOT NICE TO READ TEXT IN CAPITALS!)

You can find more information on formal writing here .

3. Use a professional email address

You must use a professional email address when contacting the recruiter.

It should be:

• It should be short in length
• It should contain your name
• It shouldn’t contain any/many numbers

Acceptable examples:

• [email protected]

Unacceptable examples:

4. Keep it short and to the point

You only have one chance to grab the attention of the prospective employer, so keep the letter short and to the point. Employers only tend to scan CVs and cover letters for less than a minute. Anything longer than a single side of A4 will most likely not be read or considered. Why take the chance? You will have plenty more opportunities in the later stages of the recruitment process, including during the job interview, to fully impress the prospective employer.

5. Write the content of the email in a separate document first

It is highly recommended to write your letter in a separate Word document first rather than typing it up on the actual email client in one go. This is because there will be a smaller chance of losing your work because of the loss of internet connection or the software crashing in the middle of writing your letter.

It also gives you additional time to properly check your written document for grammar and spelling mistakes.

How to send a cover letter and CV via email

Let’s get started…

1. Email subject line for job application

The subject of your email should be the job position followed by the job ID or job reference number:

• IT Manager (ID: W124)
• Receptionist (Job Ref. A2014)
• Cleaner (Job ID: AFT2421)

That’s all that is required.

If you decide to add anything extra, e.g. including your name or a short message, please keep it short as there is a limit on how much of the subject line will be shown to the recruiter when they receive it in their inbox.

Do not write your subject line in capital letters

Some applicants, in a desperate attempt to make their email stand out from the rest, write the subject line of their emails in capital letters, like this:

This is not recommended for two reasons:

• It is awful to read, and;
• You come over as either too desperate or too aggressive. In the worst case scenario, you come over as both.

QUESTION: Should you write the cover letter in the body of the email or send it as an attachment?

Some employers prefer attachments, whereas others prefer the letter in the body of the email. Please check for company requirements on the job advertisement. If the company has not specified their preference, it is up to you how you’d like to send your cover letter to them.

It’s decision time!

As previously stated, there are two acceptable ways of doing this:

1. Include the cover letter as an attached file

If you decide to attach your cover letter separately to the email, always write a short message in the body of the email introducing yourself and giving the reason for emailing the recruiter – don’t leave it blank! The content of your email body should be short, informative and to the point:

Another good example:

Please find attached my CV and Cover Letter for the position of Senior Research Fellow.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Kind regards, Michael Harper.

2. Write the cover letter in the body of the email

This is the most popular way of sending an email job application.

I can already hear you ask “which one is better?” glad you asked.

Our recommendation is to write the cover letter in the body of the email. It gives the opportunity to make a strong and memorable first impression, allowing you to grab the prospective employer’s attention within seconds.

If you send it as an attachment, on the other hand, the employer has to take the additional step of finding and opening your letter in order to read it. Some recruiters will not open attachments out of fear of infecting their computers by viruses.

Warning: Don’t include the same cover letter in the body of the email and as a file attachment. That is just a weird thing to do and makes you look very indecisive.

The remainder of the guide will show you step-by-step how to write your email covering letter in the body of the email:

How to start an email

2. employer’s personal details.

The first few lines of your letter should be the personal details of the recruiter:

• Recruiter’s full name
• Recruiter’s job title
• Company name
• Company address

Good example:

3. Opening salutation/greeting

The next line of your covering letter is the opening salutation, which should be written in the following format:

“Dear” followed by their honorific title (Mr, Mrs, etc.) and surname.

• Always use formal greeting (e.g. ‘ Dear Sir/Madam ‘, ‘ Dear [Surname] ‘ or ‘ To whom it may concern ‘ rather than ‘ Hey ‘, ‘ Hi ‘, or ‘ What’s up? ‘)
• It’s always best to find out the name of the employer to whom you are written the letter. This makes the letter more personal and convincing.
• If you’re addressing the employer by name, only include their surname (Dear Mr Kent) and not their full name (Dear Mr Simon Kent).

The next line should include today’s date in full ( 10 November, 2018 instead of 10/11/18 ), aligned to the right.

5. Introductory paragraph

State the reason why you are writing this covering letter.

For example:

I am writing to express my interest in the Electrical Engineer role listed in The Worcester News, 19th of March 2017. After carefully reviewing the job requirements, I feel I have all the necessary experience and technical skills to excel in this position, and I would wholly appreciate your consideration.

• These are the first few sentences that the prospective employer will be reading about you; make sure the introductory paragraph is short , to the point and is written for high impact .

6. Paragraph 2

In this paragraph, clearly outline the reasons why you would be a suitable candidate for this position. Make mention of your relevant education, qualifications, work experience, strengths, skills and abilities.

I graduated in 2014 with a first-class degree in Librarianship from the University of Essex, and I worked for a year as a Junior Librarian at Summerfield College. Both my education and work experience have given me a great insight into the purpose, function and processes of libraries. I am trained in all the standard library information and data management systems.

• Try to back up your statements with real-world examples. For instance, if you wrote that you have an “ excellent track record in sales “; back it up by tangible and verifiable performance information, e.g. by stating that you “ increased the company’s sales by 23% in six months. “

7. Paragraph 3

Following on from paragraph 2, expand on more reasons why you would be the ideal candidate for this job position.

I graduated in 2015 with a 2:1 degree in Business Management from the Queen’s University Belfast, something which kindled my passion for business and the economy. I studied a broad variety of topics ranging from Marketing Principles and Corporate Responsibilities to Leading Change and Strategic Management. I am a driven, ambitious and analytical individual with the excellent ability to analyse current business operations and offer meaningful solutions based on the findings.

8. Paragraph 4

This is going to be the final information-packed paragraph of your cover letter. Mention any other selling points that you have and state the reason why you are interested in working for this particular company.

I am especially attracted to joining your organisation because of the emphasis it puts on long-term growth and training within the company. Challenges motivate me, and I believe that I would be able to bring together my prior knowledge and skills as a competent Recruitment Officer. I am confident that my records of impressive accomplishments over the past few years prove that I will become a valuable asset to Lancefield Recruitment.

• Do research about the company you are applying for and use your findings to draft this paragraph. This will make you look interested, intelligent and resourceful in the eyes of the prospective employer.

How to end the email

9. closing statement.

The final paragraph is usually a polite call for action in which you state that you are looking forward to meeting the prospective employer. It must also contain a reference to your CV that you have attached with the application.

Useful phrases you can use:

• Please find attached my CV for your consideration.
• I have attached my CV with this email.
• For your consideration, my CV is attached with this email.

10. Closing salutation

The closing greeting should be “Yours sincerely” only if you addressed the employer by name (e.g. Dear Mrs Sanders) at the beginning of the letter.

If you used “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom it may concern” as the opening greeting of your letter, it should end with “Yours faithfully.”

Other alternatives that you may use instead of “Yours faithfully”:

• Best regards
• Kind regards
• Best Wishes

11. Signature & Sender’s name

Sign off the letter with a signature followed by your name.

If you do not have a scanned or electronic signature, you can write the signature in the following format:

• Email address
• Telephone number
• LinkedIn profile – optional

That is it – you should now have a perfectly written email cover letter!

• Don’t rush by writing and sending your email in one go – you will most likely forget to include important things or make many factual, grammatical or spelling mistakes. Write a draft version first, take a break, and then come back again in a few hours time to review it.
• Don’t forget to attach your files ! You only have one chance to make a good impression, make sure you don’t mess it up with clumsy mistakes.
• Send a test email to yourself first to double-check the email’s format and whether attachments can be opened.
• Give the attachments identifiable file names, for example, “ Julia_McCaree_CV.pdf ” is better than “ newhkh34.pdf “

Shall I send my documents in Word (.doc or .docx) or PDF format? Both methods are acceptable. However, we recommend you send it as a PDF file because that will preserve the format and presentation of your documents; including margins, padding, spacing and indentation.

How do I find out if my job application email has been received? Unfortunately, you can’t be sure whether the employer has opened or read your email unless they tell you so. Some email clients allow you to ask for a “Read” receipt after the sender has opened your email. However, you will only receive a “Read” receipt if the recipient decides to send you one.

After how many days shall I follow-up my application? Most job vacancies will state the timeframe in which you should hear back from them if you have been shortlisted for an interview. Many job vacancies will state: “If you do not hear back from us within 2 weeks time, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful this time.” If, however, this is not specified you should get in touch with them after a week to follow-up on your initial application.

Should I use the “ high importance ” flag when sending my application? No, not really. The high importance flag has lost its value years ago. Besides, there is a chance that you will come across as rude as why should your job application email be more important or urgent than those of other senders? More than 90% of emails are sent without one.

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• Cover Letter

Email Cover Letter: Sample + Format That Works in 2024

If you’re sending your cover letter as an email you’ll need to make a few tweaks to get it right. Read on to guarantee success when you click send.

An email cover letter is a short message explaining why you're submitting your CV and how your expertise makes you the right candidate. It adds a personal touch to your application. A cover letter email is shorter than a standard letter and is sent in the form of an email itself, not as an attachment.

Sounds like your good old cover letter all over again. But it isn’t.

If you’re applying for a job via email instead of using job boards, you’ve got a golden opportunity to get remembered by the hiring manager. But—

To make it happen, you need the best email cover letter out there.

And you are going to have one. Read on, and you’ll see :

• An email cover letter sample that will help you land that interview.
• A tried-and-true email format for cover letters that showcases your most valuable strengths.
• How to write a cover letter in an email to get any job you want.
• Little known hacks for sending your cover letter email with a CV for greatest impact.

Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from  20+ professional cover letter templates  that match your CV. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

Create your cover letter now

Sample Cover Letter for a CV— See more cover letter templates and create your cover letter here .

First, have a look at this universal, simple email cover letter sample. What do you think makes it so special?

Sample Email Cover Letter Template You Can Adjust and Use

Subject line: Senior Software Developer Seeks Software Engineering Team Lead Position with ABC (ID: 4569870)

Dear James,

Please find attached a copy of my CV with detailed work experience for the position of Senior Software Developer at ABC Corp., (Job ID: 4569870) 

As a senior software developer at XYZ Inc., with a proven record of developing and optimizing the most strategic mobile apps and online software, increasing annual mean NPS to over 70.0 (43% rise) and reducing Customer Effort Scores by 60%, I am sure I can help ABC achieve similar results with your upcoming project of developing mobile apps for corporate finance and easy online trading accounts.

Can we schedule a meeting to discuss my insights and ideas on making ABC’s software development quicker and more effective, while boosting all major KPIs?

Maria Farinelli

Senior Software Developer

linkedin.com/in/mfarinelli_zety

[email protected]

0777 777 7777

I’ll tell you one thing, Maria can expect the callback anytime!

It’s a perfect email cover letter template you can tweak so that it fits your situation, and use to apply for any job.

As you can see above, you should format your email cover letter just as any other semi-formal email. Use a standard, elegant font and double spacing between paragraphs. At the bottom, include your contact information, just as you’d do in the footer of any professional email you send.

Writing a regular cover letter to attach to your CV email? Learn how to make the most of it from our complete cover letter writing guide: How to Write a Cover Letter for Any Job Application

For more tips on formatting your cover letter, see: Cover Letter Formatting Guide

Contacting the company on a speculative basis to find out if there's a chance to work together? This guide will help: Speculative Cover Letter Sample

And if you’re eying an internship and crafting an email cover letter for fresh graduates, see this article: Internship Cover Letter Sample & Writing Guide

One last thing before we go on:

Email cover letter—body or attachment?

Either. But not both.

Truth is, this choice won’t be decisive for your job hunt, so don’t obsess over it.

My suggestion is—if you’re applying by email, you’re risking that your message will reach the hiring manager in a hurry, so don’t make them open TWO attachments. Write your cover letter in your email body and enclose only your CV.

Right—

So you’ve seen a jaw-dropping job application email cover letter. Now, let’s break down what makes this email format for cover letters so great.

1. Strong Subject Line: the Only Guarantee Your Email Cover Letter Gets Opened

It won’t matter if your achievements are breathtakingly impressive or your skills fit all requirements of the job you’re trying to land…

If no one opens your job application email cover letter.

And guess what? That depends only on the subject line.

Make the most of it. In the subject line for an email cover letter with a CV, include:

• Who you are
• That you’re applying for a job
• The position
• The company name
• Job ID (if applicable)

Like the candidate from our sample, Maria did:

Sample Email Cover Letter Subject Line

Senior Software Developer [1] Seeks [2] Software Engineering Team Lead [3] Position with ABC [4] (ID: 4569870) [5].

Pro Tip : The only instance when all of the above is of no consequence? When the employer demands all applicants to use the same subject line, for example, “Application for Position XYZ - [Your Name].” If so—you have to play by their rules.

How long should your cover email subject be?

As long as it needs to be to include all of the above info and as short as possible.

Need an exact figure?

Number of email subject characters displayed varies across devices and operating systems:

For desktop email applications it’s within the range of 46 (Yahoo Mail) to 70 (Gmail).

Mobile email clients? From 30 characters (Android; portrait) to 64 characters (iPhone; landscape).

To stay on the safe side, begin your subject line with the name of your position. It’s sure to stay within the narrowest, 30-character range, and the hiring manager will immediately know what vacancy the message is about.

2. Proper Greeting to Show Your Professionalism

The best way to start your email cover letter is with ‘Dear’ + the hiring manager’s name.

Personalization will make the hiring manager feel like they’re reading something made specifically for them.

Don’t know the name of your hiring manager?

Do some research!

Double check the job ad.

• Check LinkedIn. Job offers on LinkedIn often identify the one who did the posting.
• Check the company website. Try to find the head of the department on the company's staff page.
• Ask friends. You can use LinkedIn to check if you've got contacts at the company. A Facebook shout-out may work too.
• Call. If all else fails, call the receptionist and ask who the contact person is.

Pro Tip : Tried all of the above to no avail? Go with ‘Dear [Team Name] Hiring Manager,’ or ‘Dear [Team Name] Hiring Team’, for instance: ‘Dear Customer Service Hiring Manager’ or ‘Dear Project Management Hiring Team’. The two greetings you have to avoid are: ‘To Whom It May Concern’, and ‘Dear Sir or Madam.’

For more details on how to address your email cover letter, see this handy guide: How to Address a Cover Letter to the Right Person

3. First Sentence: Short and To-The-Point

Sending your cover letter in an email instead of using job boards is an excellent strategy for escaping the CV black hole .

But there’s one downside.

While hiring managers book specific time slots for reviewing CVs and cover letters they got through their online recruitment systems, your email, as I said before, might reach them in a rush. For instance, heading out to a meeting or dealing with an urgent problem.

In an email cover letter, don’t make the hiring manager read between the lines of some fancy storytelling.

Be as straightforward as possible.

Email Cover Letter Example: First Sentence

Attached you will find my CV with detailed work experience for the position of [ABC].

And that’ll do.

4. Main Paragraph: Relevance is Key

You’re not applying for a job. You’re applying for this job.

For the hiring manager, it doesn’t matter how great your career has been so far. What matters is how you can help the company with their upcoming tasks and challenges.

Show that in your email cover letter body:

Read the job description carefully, identify what your responsibilities will be.

Then, research the company online, try to find out what projects they’re running or plan to launch in the future.

Outline your professional achievements that can translate into success in your prospective role.

Highlight what you have to offer.

Remember Maria, the candidate from our sample?

The company she’s applying to, ABC Corp., is looking for a Software Engineering Team Lead to supervise the development of new android apps.

That’s what her tailored , brief email cover letter reads:

Sample Short Email Cover Letter Body

As a senior software developer at XYZ Inc., with a proven record of developing and optimizing the most strategic mobile apps and online software, increasing annual mean NPS to over 70.0 (43% rise) and reducing Customer Effort Scores by 60% [your achievements most relevant to the job you’re trying to land] , I am sure I can help ABC achieve similar results [an offer to leverage your experience to the benefit of your future employer]  with your upcoming project of developing mobile apps for corporate finance and easy online trading accounts [knowledge of your employer’s plans and your responsibilities] .

Pro Tip : I can’t stress this enough—an email cover letter has to be shorter than one you would include as an attachment. How short exactly? Your go-to word count should be 150, tops.

In need of some extra tips for your cover letter? Check out: What to Include in a Cover Letter: 15+ Examples

When making a CV in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building your CV here .

When you’re done, Zety’s CV builder will score your CV and tell you exactly how to make it better.

5. Call to Action

So the hiring manager knows you’re a great candidate. Job done?

Not quite. Take an extra step. Reiterate your value in the call to action :

Ask the hiring manager to reach out to you and meet in person.

Once again, focus on what you have to offer.

Again, let’s have a look at the call to action from our sample:

Sample Email Cover Letter—Call to Action

Can we schedule a meeting [ asking them to reach out to you ] to discuss my insights and ideas on making ABC’s software development quicker and more effective, while boosting all major KPIs [ restating your offer ]?

Pro Tip : The two worst things you can do in your email cover letter closing are coming off as needy ( I’m sure I’d make a great employee, just give me a shot! ) or generic ( Thank you for your time and consideration ).

For more ideas on strong and compelling ways to finish your cover letter, go here: How to End a Cover Letter the Right Way

6. Formal Sign-Off

Once you’ve written your email cover letter for a CV, you just need to put a formal greeting at the very end.

Write “sincerely” and follow it with your full name.

If you’re not a fan of the well-worn, “sincerely,” feel free to use any of the following synonyms:

Sample email cover letter sign-offs:

• Best regards,
• Kind regards,
• With best regards.

Pro Tip : Under your sign-off, put the necessary contact information, such as your LinkedIn profile, email address, and telephone number. To save yourself the effort of adding them every time you send an email covering letter, you can include them automatically in the footer of your email. You can also include a digital copy of your handwritten signature. It will add a nice, professional touch.

7. Attachments

So you’ve just written your perfect, short email cover letter. Now you’re basically guaranteed to land that interview, right?

Let me just quote what one recruiter wrote in her LinkedIn article:

Dear Applicant,

Your email arrived with a cover letter in the main body. I was really impressed and could not wait to review your CV. There was only one problem. You’d forgotten to attach it.

I replied to your email asking you to reattach your CV and you did not respond until the following day. In any case, it was already too late.

I don’t think you really wanted that job.

Human Resources Business Partner at British Council

Don’t think I need to explain further, do I?

And it is fine to say ‘ Please find attached my CV ’ (though there are better alternatives).

It makes all the more sense to write that because Gmail will see the word attached/attachment, check if you have in fact attached anything, and prompt you if you haven't!

One last thing to keep in mind:

Choose a professional CV file name:

‘[Your first and last names]-CV-[the company name]’, for example:  John-Smith-CV-Intel   NOT  My-CV-124 .

Key Takeaway

To write a perfect cover letter email for a job application, follow these steps:

• Use a clear, strong subject line.
• Open with a proper greeting—address the hiring manager by their name.
• In the first sentence, explain why you’re writing and what position you’re targeting.
• Write a brief main paragraph that outlines your most relevant experience and achievements.
• Close with a call to action—ask to schedule a meeting and reiterate your offer.
• Sign-off with a ‘sincerely’ synonym and your full name.
• Put your contact details in the footer.
• Don’t forget to attach a CV to your cover letter email.

And, for the final piece of advice:

Keep it short.

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your CV will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here.  Here's what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Got any additional questions about writing and sending a cover letter email? Want to share your experience with applying by a direct email message? Give me a shout in the comments. I can’t wait to hear out your thoughts. Let’s chat!

About Zety’s Editorial Process

Our editorial team has thoroughly reviewed this article to ensure it follows Zety’s editorial guidelines . Our dedication lies in sharing our expertise and providing you with actionable career advice that offers you real value. Every year, the quality of our content attracts 40 million readers to our site. But that’s not all – we conduct original research to gain a detailed understanding of the labour market. We take pride in being cited by top universities and leading media outlets in the UK and worldwide .

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Inspect a variety of real-life resume samples to gain insights into successful strategies for skill and experience presentation.

Writing a compelling cover letter is an essential step in the job application process, as it provides an opportunity to make a strong first impression, highlight your qualifications and demonstrate your enthusiasm and fit for the job.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter for a job application. Plus we’ll provide cover letter examples and expert tips on how to write a successful cover letter that lands interviews.

Video: Learn how to write a cover letter in our cover letter builder

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume or CV when you apply for a job. See our guides on how to write a resume and how to make a CV while you craft your job application. 

A well-written cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your enthusiasm and passion for the position. 

It serves as an opportunity for you to showcase your communication and writing skills, as well as your attention to detail and professionalism.

We’ll teach you how to write a good cover letter so that you can craft this job-winning document with ease. Your cover letter should accomplish the following:

• Introduce yourself to the hiring managers.
• Provide details about your qualifications.
• Tell employers why you want to work for them.
• Illustrate why you’re the best match for the job.
• Explain circumstances like job hopping or gaps in employment. 

Make a cover letter with My Perfect Resume

Our Cover letter builder can help you write the perfect cover letter. Start Now!

What to include in a cover letter

All cover letters follow a basic business letter structure and should include the sections detailed below. Explore our guide on what to include in a cover letter for a detailed overview of each section.

Did you know? 41% of job seekers replicate their resumes in their cover letters. This is a huge mistake. Your cover letter should complement your resume, not repeat it.

How to write a cover letter for a job application

Do your research.

Wondering how to write a great cover letter? Preparation is key. Researching the essential information before you start writing will save you time and ensure you put your best foot forward.

First, review the job description to compare it with your professional skills and qualifications. Make a checklist of areas where your skills match the requirements of the job. Make note of the following areas: 

• Notable accomplishments from previous jobs.
• Any volunteer work where you gained skills listed in the job description.
• Skills that match the required skills in the job listing. Include a mix of hard skills and soft skills .
• Educational qualifications, including certificates and licenses.
• Relevant awards and honors.

Next, research the company to get a sense of its culture and values. This will help you create a personalized cover letter that indicates your genuine interest in the company. Take notes on the following areas: 

• Get an idea of the company’s culture, mission and values so that you can tell the hiring manager why you’re a great fit. 
• Research the company’s news and press releases so you can congratulate key players on recent milestones or explain how you will contribute to future goals.
• Learn the hiring manager’s name so that you can address your cover letter to them.

Choose a cover letter template

Want to know how to write a perfect cover letter? Use a cover letter template . Using a professionally designed template ensures that your cover letter format is ATS-friendly and vetted by career advice experts.

We have hundreds of templates to help you get started on the right track. Pick from modern, creative, or simple styles to match your CV or resume template and build a professional cover letter in minutes. Not sure if a template’s right for you? Try one for free!

Did you know? 45% of hiring managers read an applicant’s cover letter before their resume.

Add a professional header

Cover letter headers follow the standard business letter format. A cover letter header typically includes your name, address, phone number and email address. It should be placed at the top of the page and aligned to the left or center.

Include your contact information

Place your name, city, state, ZIP code, phone number and email address in your cover letter heading. Your email address should be professional like “[email protected],” and not personal like “[email protected].” Include links to your LinkedIn profile or professional online portfolio if you have one.

Include the recipient’s contact information

First, write the current date followed by a space. Then include the hiring manager’s name and title, company address and the hiring manager’s email address. It should look like this:

Always follow the instructions in the job listing. If a job description directs you to address your cover letter to a human resources team member or the HR department, use the information the prospective employer provides for the recipient’s address.

Greet the hiring manager

Greet the hiring manager by name whenever possible to establish a personal connection. If you are unsure of their gender, you can use their first and last name. 

For example: “Dear [hiring manager’s full name],” 

If you are certain of the hiring manager’s gender, you can address them using “Mr.” or “Ms.” in your cover letter. Avoid using “Mrs.” or “Miss” as these titles imply that you are assuming the hiring manager’s marital status. 

Don’t use informal language like “Hello,” or “Hi,” or outdated salutations like“Dear Sir or Madam” or “To Whom it May Concern” to greet the person reading your letter. 

If your research doesn’t turn up a name, then use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Hiring Team.” Take a look at some acceptable and unacceptable salutations below.

• Dear Lucy Garcia,
• Dear Ms. Lowe,
• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear Vice President of Marketing,
• Hey Mr. Jones,

Write a compelling introduction

The opening sentences of a cover letter act as your elevator pitch . You should clearly and concisely tell hiring managers why you are the best fit for the job. 

But how do you start a cover letter in a way that intrigues hiring managers and makes them want to read more?

The following examples can help you write a cover letter introduction that grabs the attention of hiring managers.

Assert your interest in the role or company

Want to know how to write a cover letter that stands out? It all starts with a compelling introduction that confidently asserts your interest in the position.

“I was excited to see that Tech Solutions — a company I respect for its innovation — has an opening for an experienced lead producer.”

Emphasize your skills and experience

Start your cover letter off strong with a brief explanation of your top skills and experiences that make you a great fit for the role.

“With seven years of experience in production for leading start-up companies in Silicon Valley, I have in-depth knowledge of cyber security and cloud computing and know my way around artificial intelligence.”

Show you’ve done some research

Mention an interesting fact or statistic from an article, news story or the company’s website.

“When I saw that WILCO Services was touted in Business Magazine for being one of the most inclusive companies in the world, I knew I had to apply for the marketing associate position.”

Highlight measurable accomplishments

Showcase your qualifications by mentioning an impressive award, honor or measurable accomplishment from a past role.

“As director of Visit Mass, I created tourism programs that resulted in a 30% increase in international tourists to Massachusetts in 2019.”

Tell your professional story

Tell a story about why you are applying. Discuss how your passion and motivation have driven your career choices and how they align with the position and company. 

“When I was a child, I spent my days in the city parks around my neighborhood, listening to birds sing and watching squirrels jump through trees. Those days instilled a passion in me for wildlife that has intensified over the years and, combined with admiration for the animal rehabilitation programs at Prospect Park Nature Conservancy, led me to apply for the Wildlife Technician position at the conservancy.”

Mention a shared contact

If applicable, mention a shared contact that you have with the hiring manager. This can help explain who you heard about the role from and establish a personal connection with the hiring manager.

“Jayne Peck told me you had an opening on your graphics team, and I’m thrilled to apply for the role. You and I know Jayne from Volunteers for the Bay, where I volunteered on the cleanup crew in 2017.”

Write the body paragraphs

The body paragraphs of your cover letter should explain why you’re the best candidate for the job. Follow the expert tips below to learn how to write a professional cover letter with engaging body paragraphs.

• If you have work experience in your target role or industry, detail your work accomplishments and use numbers to quantify the results of your actions.
• If you’re applying for your first job , connect the new opportunity with a personal or school project, extracurricular activity or internship.
• Highlight relevant skills from your work experience and explain clearly how you can apply them to the job.
• If you think you’re a shoo-in for the company’s culture, show it! For example, if you enjoy volunteering for social justice causes and you are applying to a nonprofit organization focused on social justice, explain why the company’s mission is meaningful to you.
• If you’re changing careers, emphasize your transferable skills. Career change cover letters that emphasize transferable skills are more effective because they show prospects that you can perform the work with little or no experience.

Did you know? 83% of hiring managers surveyed said they would hire a candidate who sent a strong cover letter, even if their resume wasn’t up to par.

Write a closing paragraph

When you write a cover letter closing statement, make it clear to the employer that you’re excited about the possibility of working with them and that you are confident you have the expertise to be successful at the job.

Remember that you’re writing a cover letter to a specific person, so thank them for their time and consideration. 

You should also encourage the recipient to follow up (e.g., “ I look forward to further discussing my qualifications with you ”). A “call to action” in your cover letter closing paragraph shows hiring managers that you’re serious about the job and confident in your qualifications.

Here are a few examples of how to write a strong cover letter closing paragraph.

I have attached my resume and creative portfolio to my application for further review of my credentials. I am eager to speak with you about this role and greatly appreciate your consideration. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to discuss my background in more detail.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I’m excited about the prospect of working for the Museum of Ancient History. I look forward to discussing what I learned in my year abroad as an English teacher and how I can apply those lessons to the docent role. Feel free to contact me any time during the week.

I’m confident that a review of my resume and portfolio will convince you that I have the technical skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in the lead designer role at Creative Ads, LLC. I’m excited about the opportunity and would be thrilled to meet with you and your team next week to discuss my ideas for your next campaign. Please contact me this week to schedule a convenient date and time.

Are you searching for remote jobs? Our sister company, FlexJobs, updates listings daily with verified remote jobs. Find full-time and part-time remote jobs with FlexJobs.

Signing off a cover letter professionally is crucial as it demonstrates your attention to detail, professionalism and respect for the hiring manager and the company. 

A professional signoff can also show that you are serious about the job and that you have taken the time to craft a well-written and thoughtful cover letter. 

See how to write a proper cover letter signoff below (and what language to avoid).

• Best regards,
• Kind regards,

Proofread your cover letter

Knowing how to write a formal cover letter isn’t all there is to making a cover letter. You’ll also need to proofread your letter at least once before sending it to a potential employer. Typos and cover letter formatting mistakes can reduce your chances of getting hired.

When you’ve finished proofreading, have someone else read it for you too, just to be sure it’s job application ready. You can ask a trusted friend or family member, a former colleague or a professional mentor to read your cover letter. 

Be specific about the feedback you are seeking. For example, you might ask for constructive criticism in the following areas: 

• Relevance: Does your cover letter demonstrate how your skills and experience match the job requirements?
• Clarity: Is your writing clear, concise and easy to understand?
• Tone: Is your tone professional and appropriate for the company and position you are applying for?
• Grammar and spelling: Are there any grammatical errors or spelling mistakes that need to be corrected?
• Formatting: Is your cover letter formatted properly with a clear and organized structure?
• Overall impression: Does your cover letter make a strong impression and effectively communicate your enthusiasm and interest for the position?

Alternatively, you can seek the advice of a career counselor or professional resume writer who can review your cover letter and provide constructive criticism to help you improve your application.

Our Cover Letter Builder features built-in spell check to ensure your document is free of spelling and grammatical errors.

Cover letter writing checklist

Now that you know how to write a compelling cover letter, we recommend running through this cover letter writing checklist to ensure that your document isn’t missing anything.

• Did you choose a cover letter design that matches your resume?
• Are your name, location, phone number and email address up to date and displayed at the top of your cover letter?
• Did you add a link to your professional portfolio or website and your current LinkedIn profile (if you have them)?
• Did you add the current date at the top of your cover letter?
• Did you address your letter to the hiring manager by name and include their title, email address and the correct company address?
• Did you greet the hiring manager, recruiter or HR associate by name or title?
• Did you use a polite but formal greeting?
• Are the first few sentences of your cover letter clear and compelling?
• Do you convey enthusiasm for the job?
• Did you effectively express how you can apply your skills, experience and achievements to the target job to help the company achieve its goals?
• Did you highlight one or two things you like about the company, such as its values or culture and why?
• Did you thank the reader for their time?
• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
• Did you use a proper, formal closure to end your letter?

How to write a cover letter that stands out

A professional cover letter template is the best way to craft a cover letter that stands out. Use one of our professionally designed templates with our Cover Letter Builder to make a cover letter in minutes. 

Our cover letter templates frame your qualifications with the correct formatting, and they meet the latest applicant tracking system (ATS) requirements. See how to make an ATS-friendly resume to ensure that your job application reaches hiring managers. 

Our builder makes writing a cover letter a snap with the following features:

• Job-specific phrases and skills: Click to add job-specific content suggestions written by Certified Professional Resume Writers (CPRW).
• Step-by-step guidance: Get expert advice on how to write a good cover letter at every step to help you showcase your top skills and qualifications. 
• Easy customization: Write a cover letter for every job application and save as many versions of it as you need.
• Multiple download formats: Save and export your cover letter as a PDF, DOCX or plain text.

Always match your cover letter template to your resume template for a polished job application. Use our Resume Builder or CV Maker to complete your job application with a matching template.

Cover letter tips from career advice experts

We spoke with David Grimes, director of people and talent operations at Taulia LLC, about the importance of creating a cover letter for your job application.

Grimes told us, “I sincerely appreciate cover letters, as they signal to me an amplification of interest and offer an additional opportunity to convey that [job candidates] have taken the time to truly review the position or organization and see an alignment.”

“When done well, a cover letter can provide a window into the candidate as they picture themselves at our organization.” – David Grimes, Director of People and Talent Operations at Taulia LLC

While you write, keep the following pointers in mind to craft a standout document. Here are our top five tips for how to make a cover letter that hiring managers will love:

• Follow instructions. Don’t send a Word document if the job posting says to send your letter as a PDF. If it tells you to send your cover letter as an email attachment, then do so. If the job posting says to write your cover letter in the body of an email, then do that. If you fail to follow all instructions in a job ad, you will likely not be considered for the position.
• Tailor your cover letter to the job . Hiring managers know a generic cover letter when they see one — and they’ll usually ignore it. That’s why it’s critical to customize your cover letter to show your enthusiasm for the specific job and company you’re applying to. Use resume keywords from the job description to showcase that your skills match the requirements of the role.
• Don’t apologize. Never point out the skills and experience you lack. If you are qualified for the job but don’t have much experience in the field, don’t apologize. Instead, focus on experiences like volunteering, school projects and community service you’ve done that make you a good fit and play up your transferable skills.

Don’t overshare. While writing a cover letter to explain a career change or job gap is a good idea, sharing every detail about your life or career is not. Do not share personal information such as political views, salary expectations or irrelevant hobbies.

Use a professional tone. We stress the importance of conveying enthusiasm when you write a cover letter because it demonstrates your interest in the position. However, use caution when displaying your zeal. Keep your tone professional, genuine and confident without going overboard. 

Professional cover letters

Get inspired by our professionally crafted cover letters for top jobs and industries. You can use them with our builder to make a cover letter that effectively highlights your skills and qualifications.

Cover letters for top jobs

Administrative Assistant

Mechanical Engineer

Personal Trainer

Registered Nurse

Security Officer

Cover letters by situation

Here’s how to write a cover letter with no experience.

Use this professional cover letter as a guide for your career change cover letter.

Here’s what to include in a cover letter if you have employment gaps.

Use this “cold call” cover letter to proactively contact the company you want to work for.

Here’s how to write a cover letter for a job that isn’t advertised.

Here’s how to write a cover letter for a temporary to a permanent position.

Here’s how to write a cover letter for an internal position at the same company.

Cover letter for when you’re seeking a promotion.

Key Takeaways

• A cover letter is a one-page document that introduces you to the hiring manager, expands upon the information in your resume and explains why you’re an excellent fit for the role.
• Address the cover letter to the hiring manager. If you can’t find their name, then address them as “Hiring Manager,” by their title or address the department.
• Write a cover letter introduction that immediately grabs the hiring manager’s attention and compels them to keep reading.
• It’s a good idea to use a professionally designed cover letter template to ensure your cover letter is formatted correctly.
• Tailor your cover letter to your target job and use keywords from the job description that accurately reflect your skills and qualifications.

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should typically be one page long and no more than three to four paragraphs. Aim to concisely express your points in about 250-500 words. 

Read up on how to write a short cover letter to browse professionally made examples and to learn how to write a simple cover letter that effectively showcases your skills and qualifications.

Hiring managers and recruiters often receive many applications, so a short and focused cover letter that quickly communicates your qualifications can help you stand out from other applicants. 

However, it is also important to ensure that your cover letter provides enough detail to showcase your skills and experience and convince the employer to invite you for an interview.

How to address a cover letter without a name?

It’s always best practice to try to find the hiring manager’s name when writing a cover letter because it personalizes your letter and emphasizes your interest in the position by showing you’ve done your homework. 

It also creates a connection with the hiring manager and conveys that you’re willing to go the extra mile, which is a quality most hiring managers want to see in prospective employees. 

If you don’t have a name, it’s acceptable to write “Dear Hiring Manager,” “Dear [Role or Title],” or “Dear [Department Name]” to address your cover letter.

How do you send a cover letter by email?

To send a cover letter by email, first save your cover letter and resume as separate PDF or Word documents, then follow the steps below: 

• Write a clear and professional subject line that includes the job title and your name.
• Compose a brief message in the body of the email, introducing yourself and stating the position you are applying for. 
• Attach your cover letter and resume to the email, making sure they are properly named and labeled.
• Double-check the email address of the recipient and proofread your email and attachments for any errors or typos before sending. 

It’s important to note that some employers may have specific instructions on how to submit your application, so make sure you read the job posting carefully and follow their guidelines. 

Additionally, if the employer requests that you send your application to a specific email address or through an online application system, make sure you follow those instructions.

Is a cover letter necessary?

While writing a cover letter for a job application is not always required, it is highly recommended to include one either way. A well-written cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your interest in the position. 

A cover letter provides an opportunity for you to showcase your communication skills, highlight your qualifications and experience and explain why you are a good fit for the job. 

Even if the job application does not specifically request a cover letter, submitting one can show that you are willing to go above and beyond to make a good impression and can help you differentiate yourself from other candidates.

So while it’s not always necessary, a well-crafted cover letter can definitely improve your chances of getting hired. We recommend trying out an AI cover letter generator to to make a cover letter in minutes.

What do I write in a cover letter?

Wondering what to write in a cover letter? Generally, cover letters should tell employers why you’re the best fit for your target job. Write about your background and how it fits the job, show your personality and explain precisely what you can do for the employer and how. 

It’s also a good idea to explain unique situations like job gaps or frequent career changes in your cover letter. Remember to include the following information in your cover letter: 

• A header with your contact information and the employer’s information if you have it.
• A professional salutation that includes the employer’s name if you have it. 
• A brief introduction explaining why you’re interested in the job. 
• One or two body paragraphs that summarize your qualifications. 
• A conclusion that reiterates your interest in the position. 
• A professional signoff such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your name. 

Overall, your cover letter should be concise, well-written and tailored to the job you’re applying for. It should demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position and your ability to make a valuable contribution to the company. 

What does a cover letter look like?

A good cover letter follows the standard business letter format. Your cover letter should be well-formatted, easy to read and professional in appearance. Remember to include the following when using standard business format to structure your cover letter: 

• Your contact details: Include your full name, title, company name, full address, phone number and email address in the letterhead.
• Date: The date should be written below your address.
• Recipient’s contact details: The recipient’s full name, title, company name, full address, phone number and email address should be included below the date.
• Salutation: The salutation should be formal, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name].”
• Body: The body of the letter should be divided into paragraphs, with each paragraph discussing a specific point or topic. The tone of the letter should be professional and courteous.
• Closing: The closing should be formal, such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully,” and followed by your signature. 

Download a sample cover letter from this page to jump right into writing your cover letter rather than worrying about formatting. Some cover letter templates have splashes of color and stylized headers, but they all follow the same standard cover letter format.

What are the goals of a cover letter?

The goal of a cover letter is to convince the hiring manager that you are the right person for the job and worth considering for further evaluation.

A cover letter allows you to formally introduce yourself, demonstrate your interest in the job and highlight your relevant skills and experience. Some of the specific goals of a cover letter include:

• Providing context for your application.
• Demonstrating your qualifications and fit for the position.
• Showing your enthusiasm and interest in the role.
• Differentiating yourself from other applicants.

A well-written cover letter should grab the employer’s attention and persuade them to take a closer look at your resume and ultimately invite you for an interview.

What do employers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for a well-written cover letter that demonstrates relevance, enthusiasm, attention to detail, personalization and professionalism. Here are a few key areas to keep in mind while you write your cover letter: 

• Relevance: Demonstrate that you have the relevant qualifications, skills and experience necessary to succeed in the role.
• Enthusiasm: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and explain why you are excited about the job.
• Attention to detail: Your letter should be free of errors and show your ability to communicate effectively to demonstrate that you have taken the time to write a thoughtful cover letter. 
• Personalization: Employers want to see that you have tailored your cover letter specifically to the job and the company. Demonstrate that you have done your research and understand the company’s mission, values and culture.
• Professionalism: Your cover letter should demonstrate that you are professional and have a strong work ethic. Use a professional tone and demonstrate your ability to work well with others.

Ultimately, your cover letter should indicate your relevant qualifications and your enthusiasm for the role. Remember to include new information in your cover letter rather than restating the same details from your resume. 

Should I give examples in a cover letter?

Yes, it is often a good idea to give examples in a cover letter to illustrate your skills, experience and accomplishments. 

Providing specific examples of projects, measurable accomplishments, or other work experiences can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your qualifications for the job. 

You can use examples to show how you have solved problems, worked collaboratively, demonstrated leadership or achieved specific goals in your previous roles. 

Ensure that your examples are concise and to the point and do not take up too much space in your cover letter.

What should the first paragraph of a cover letter include?

The first paragraph of a cover letter should introduce yourself and explain why you are writing the letter. Here are some key elements to include in the first paragraph of a cover letter:

• Your value as a candidate: Begin your letter with a compelling statement about the top skills or qualifications that make you a great fit for the role. 
• How you learned about the position: If you were referred to the position by someone you know or if you saw the job posting on a specific website, mention it in this paragraph.
• A brief statement about your qualifications: In one or two sentences, explain why you are interested in the position and why you are a good fit for the job.

Overall, the first paragraph of your cover letter should be clear, concise and engaging to grab the hiring manager’s attention. 

What is a good opening sentence for a cover letter?

A good opening sentence for a cover letter should be attention-grabbing and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position. Here are a few examples:

• “As a passionate and results-driven marketing professional, I am thrilled to apply for the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company.”
•  “With a proven track record of success in project management and a genuine passion for driving organizational growth, I am excited to submit my application for the Project Manager role at ABC Corporation.”
• “When I saw the job posting for the Software Engineer position at DEF Tech, I knew I had found an opportunity that perfectly aligns with my expertise and career aspirations.”

Remember to customize the sentence to fit your own experiences and the specific job you are applying for.

How do you write a cover letter with no experience?

Writing a cover letter with no experience can be challenging, but creating a compelling letter showcasing your skills and potential is possible. 

Begin your letter with a statement explaining why you are interested in the position and qualified for it. You might mention your skills, education or relevant coursework.

Even if you don’t have work experience, you can provide examples of demonstrating relevant skills in other settings. For example, you might mention a group project you completed in school that required teamwork and communication.

Your cover letter should be no more than one page long. Use clear, concise language and avoid repeating information that is already in your resume.

How we reviewed this article

Since 2013, we have helped more than 15 million job seekers. We want to make your career journey accessible and manageable through our services and Career Center’s how-to guides and tips. In our commitment to bring you a transparent process, we present our Editorial Process .

• Harvard Business Review. Article. Gallo, Amy. How to Write a Cover Letter
• University of Wisconsin – Madison. The Writing Center. Article. Writing Cover Letters
• Columbia University Center for Career Education. Article. How and Why to Write a Great Cover Letter

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Kellie is a Certified Professional Resume Writer with 20+ years of experience in digital media and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate their careers. She earned a B.A. in English and writing from Temple University.

‡ Results derived from a study responded by 1000 participants of which 287 created a resume online.

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

How to Write a Letter of Application with Examples

Write a compelling letter of application with our step-by-step guide and job-specific examples that improve your chances of being considered for your desired job.

As seen in:

Are you embarking on the journey of job hunting? A letter of application can help you go the distance in your job search!

Often synonymous with a cover letter , this invaluable document is your introduction to potential employers. It’s not just a piece of paper; it’s your narrative, your first handshake in the professional realm.

In this article, we’ll provide clear steps, expert tips and job-specific letter of application examples to help you write a compelling cover letter — your key to unlocking fantastic professional opportunities. Ready to make your words work wonders? Let’s dive in!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter of application example

How to write a letter of application.

• Formatting tips for a letter of application

Job-specific application letter examples

Do’s and don’ts for your letter of application, key takeaways.

First, this is how a letter of application should look like. You can use this example of an application letter as a starting point for your own.

Build my cover letter

There are so many job applications, yet so little time. We understand that writing new application letters for each role can be time-consuming, so we created our Cover Letter Builder ! By typing your job title and answering simple questions, our builder can generate a personalized application letter in minutes.

You can write a compelling letter of application that has recruiters calling you for an interview by following a few easy steps and some not-so-secret tips and tricks.

Before you dive into writing, let’s start with a crucial step:

Research the company you’re applying to.

It sounds redundant, but a big part of your letter of application is showing recruiters you’re genuinely excited about the role.

Doing some homework to browse the company website or LinkedIn will help you identify a pattern of values that create the company’s “ corporate culture .”

Many companies will also publicly share awards they’ve won or projects they’re embarking on. With this information, you can write an application letter showing recruiters you know what the company is working toward.

You can even demonstrate you’re ready to hit the ground running if you get the job by sharing ideas or potential solutions that align with the company’s goals.

Structure your header correctly.

Now that you have some background on what the company is looking for in a candidate, you can begin writing your letter of application.

The first section of your application is the header or letterhead. Formatting your letterhead in a business-letter style is crucial for professionalism. Ensure your header includes your contact information and the date, aligning with conventional business letter formats.

Application letterhead template

[Your Name] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number]

[Today’s Date]

[Recipient’s Name, Job Title] [Company Name] [Company’s Address] [City, State and ZIP Code]

Good example:

Alyssa Guadigino Newark, New Jersey 07106 [email protected] 555-555-5555

February 18, 2024

Carla Rivera, HR Manager Turin & Co., LLC 77 E 4th St New York, NY 10014

Bad Example:

Alyssa Guadigino [email protected] 555-555-5555

Greet the hiring manager.

When addressing your letter, strive to find the hiring manager’s name since this personalizes your letter and shows your attention to detail.

However, if the hiring manager’s name is unavailable, what can you do to address a cover letter without a name ?

The best option is to use a generic but appropriate greeting, such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To the Growth Marketing Department.”

Dear Ms. Johnson,

Bad example:

To whom it may concern,

Grab recruiters’ attention in the opening paragraph.

The opening paragraph is your chance to show recruiters those essential qualifications that make you a desirable candidate.

Highlight essential soft skills , mention required qualifications or even add a bit of personal branding to make a memorable first impression.

As an enthusiastic and adaptable marketing coordinator with six years of experience and a passion for fostering collaborative environments, I bring a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking to your team at XYZ Corporation.

I am writing to express my interest in the position at your company. I am a hard worker and a fast learner.

A weak opening paragraph is vague and sparse. In contrast, a solid opening paragraph features the skills and qualifications the employer seeks in a candidate.

Looking for more examples and tips for nailing this part of your application letter? Check out our in-depth guide on How to Write the First Paragraph of Your Cover Letter .

Share your best qualifications in the body paragraph.

In the body of your letter, you have a golden opportunity to present a compelling case for why you are the ideal candidate for the position.

The body paragraph is the most flexible section of your letter of application because you can employ different approaches.

If you’re an applicant with a lot of relevant experience, you can focus on sharing more relevant quantifiable achievements that showcase your expertise.

Suppose you’re a job seeker with little to no experience. In that case, you should use the letter of application to target potential concerns an employer may have, such as being a recent graduate, having an employment gap or changing careers . You must face these limitations head-on and quickly pivot to the qualifications you can offer the employer, especially transferable skills from previous experiences that you can employ in the role.

Check out these body paragraph examples to identify what works and what doesn’t:

With four years in accounting, I excel in financial analysis, reporting and strategic decision-making. In my current role, I streamlined expense tracking, reducing reconciliation times by 30%, which enhaced accuracy and enabled timely decision-making. Proficient in QuickBooks and Excel, I bring efficiency, precision and a proven track record of process improvement to elevate Enco Accounting’s financial operations.

I’ve done various tasks and used different accounting software as an accountant. I’m good at financial analysis and reporting. I hope to bring my skills to your company.

Notice how the bad example looks like the applicant wrote the basics and didn’t put much effort into personalizing it for the job? In a good example, the applicant does the opposite; they choose their skills carefully and provide many details to communicate their achievements to employers effectively.

Finish your letter by encouraging next steps.

Conclude your letter by expressing eagerness for the next steps. Use a compelling closing paragraph that leaves a positive impression.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to ABC Company’s continued success and would welcome the chance to discuss in an interview how my skills align with your needs. Thank you for considering my application.

Thanks for reading, and I hope to hear from you soon.

A strong closing paragraph is direct yet polite and invites the reader to reach out to you with the next steps for interviewing. You can even include a summary of your primary qualifications if you’ve written a longer letter; just ensure you don’t repeat the same things.

For additional inspiration, you can explore 8 Brilliant Cover Letter Closing Paragraphs & Conclusion Examples .

Formatting tips for a great letter of application

Crafting an impressive letter of application extends beyond the content — it’s equally vital to present it professionally. Follow these essential formatting tips to ensure your letter not only captures attention but also reflects your attention to detail:

Length matters.

Mind the line spacing., choose an appropriate font., be consistent with text alignment., pick an appropriate file format and name., use an ats-friendly template..

Customer Service Representative

Assistant Manager

Administrative Assistant

Sales Representative

Software Engineer

Project Manager

Registered Nurse

Internship Student

Operations Manager

Medical Assistant

Don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach.

Tailor your letter for each job application. A generic letter won’t showcase your genuine interest in the role, nor will it pinpoint the critical skills and qualifications the employer wants to see.

Don’t focus solely on your needs.

While expressing your career goals is essential to your application letter, remember to emphasize what you bring to the table. Shift the focus from what the job can do for you to how you can contribute to the company.

Don’t repeat what’s on your resume.

Your letter is an opportunity to delve into specific experiences and achievements. Avoid duplicating your resume; instead, offer insights into your career progression.

Don’t exaggerate or falsify information.

Honesty is key. Exaggerating or providing false information can jeopardize your credibility and harm your chances of securing the position.

Don’t overuse jargon.

While industry-specific language is essential, avoid overloading your letter with jargon. Aim for clarity to ensure your message resonates with a broad audience of recruiters.

Do follow application guidelines.

Adhere to the specified format, submission method or additional requirements outlined in the job posting. Even a fantastic cover letter won’t help if you don’t follow the employer’s application instructions to a T.

Do keep your letter to the point.

Be concise and efficient with your letter of application. Hiring managers appreciate brevity, so focus on key achievements and qualifications to maintain their interest from start to finish.

Do proofread your letter.

Typos and grammatical errors are big red flags for recruiters. Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your letter to ensure clarity, accuracy and an error-free presentation.

• Tailor your approach and avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Customize each letter to the specific job and company.
• Demonstrate genuine excitement about the role and align your values with the company’s culture.
• Emphasize transferable skills and achievements that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.
• Address employment gaps and career changes transparently, showcasing how these experiences contribute to your versatility.
• Provide specific examples and quantifiable achievements that showcase the real impact of your efforts.
• Adhere to essential formatting tips, including keeping your letter of application one page long, using a 1.15-1.5 line spacing, a professional font and consistent text alignment.
• Craft a letter that will pass applicant tracking systems (ATS) by avoiding complex formatting.
• Steer clear of common mistakes like focusing solely on your needs, repeating resume content, exaggerating information and overusing jargon in your application letter.
• Follow the application guidelines specified in the job posting to showcase your ability to follow instructions.
• Maintain a concise and focused letter, ensuring it captures the reader’s interest without unnecessary details.
• Avoid typos and grammatical errors by thoroughly proofreading your letter before submission.

What is a letter of application? Is it the same as a cover letter?

A letter of application is a document you submit alongside your resume when applying for a particular job. An application letter lets you introduce yourself professionally to employers and compel them to hire you by showcasing your qualifications. A letter of application is the same as a cover letter. This document goes by many names, such as motivation or presentation letters.

Why do you need a letter of application?

You need a letter of application if you want to be a competitive candidate and have the potential to land the job. A resume will show employers you possess all the job requirements, but a cover letter showcases more intangible qualities such as passion, motivation, work ethic and career progression.

Can you use the same letter of application for multiple jobs?

Technically, you shouldn’t. If you wanted to use the same letter of application for multiple jobs, you’d end up submitting a generic application letter. Although you might think a generic letter is “good enough,” it can severely hurt your hiring chances. Recruiters don’t want to read a letter not tailored to the employer’s unique needs.

How do I write a letter of application that stands out?

Besides tailoring the content of your letter of application to fit a specific job’s requirements, you can add a few other things to make your letter stand out. For example, use keywords from the job description, showcase how you’ve grown throughout your career or communicate ideas you’re eager to implement in the new role.

What should I avoid writing in an application letter?

Some topics you should avoid writing about in your application letter are:

• Personal issues regarding health or finances.
• Salary expectations (unless expressly required in the job application).
• Negative opinions about previous employers.
• Irrelevant hobbies or interests.

How do you format a letter of application in email?

When formatting a letter of application in an email, here are a few steps you should take:

• Write a subject line that mentions the role you are applying for. For example: Application for [Job Title] Position – [Your Full Name].
• Start with a professional salutation. If you have the recipient’s name, use it (e.g., “Dear Mr. Smith”) or “Dear Hiring Manager” if the name is unknown.
• Begin the application letter’s content with a brief introduction expressing your interest in the position. Mention where you found the job posting and any mutual connections if you have them.
• Keep your letter concise, typically within three to four paragraphs. Address your qualifications and critical skills relevant to the job.
• Finalize the letter with a strong closing statement expressing your eagerness to discuss your application further.
• Include a professional closing (e.g., “Sincerely,” “Best Regards”) followed by your full name.
• Bonus: If you include attachments, mention them in the email. Example: “Attached, please find my resume and cover letter for your consideration.”

What is a letter of interest for a job application?

A letter of interest, or a letter of inquiry, is a document you send to a prospective employer to express your interest in working for their organization, even if they have yet to advertise a specific job opening. This letter serves as a way to introduce yourself, highlight your qualifications and inquire about potential job opportunities within the company.

See more on our FAQ page

Related resources

Cover Letter Formats: Tips for 2024

How to Write a Resume When You Have No Work Experience

400+ Resume Examples

About the Author

Gabriela Hernandez • CPRW, Career Advice Expert

Gabriela Hernandez is one of LiveCareer's resident writers. She graduated from the University of Puerto Rico with a degree in Journalism. Throughout her career, she has tackled copywriting, blog articles, journalistic writing, academic writing, resume writing, and even prose and verse.

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• May 31, 2024

The Short Cover Letter: What to Include & Why (with Examples)

Short and sweet (and effective)

This article is part of InHerSight's Finding a Job series . Discover our most popular and relevant resources for finding a job fast—at a company that cares as much about your career as you do.

Cover letters, short or long, are increasingly unpopular among job seekers. However, a 2023 survey of 625 hiring managers across the nation found that 60 percent of companies still require cover letters, writes Rebecca Tay, Ph.D. at ResumeGenius. 

While medium and large companies are more likely to require cover letters (72 percent and 69 percent, respectively), nearly half of small businesses (49 percent) do too.

Because hiring managers use those letters to decide which applicants to interview, Tay writes:

49 percent say a strong cover letter can convince them to interview an otherwise weak candidate.

18 percent say a weak cover letter can cause them to throw out the application of an otherwise strong candidate.

33 percent say a good letter can elevate a weak applicant, and a bad letter can hurt a strong applicant.

Read more: 15 Good Character Traits Hiring Managers Love

What’s so great about cover letters?

A cover letter allows you to explain yourself.

In a LinkedIn post, Rachel Bradley , executive director at Sisu Youth Services in Oklahoma City, writes: “When your resume shows no direct or even indirect experience with the job to which you are applying, use that short cover letter to simply tell me why you are qualified or even interested. With no experience or explanation, you're wasting my time and yours.”

It’s in your cover letter that you can include referrals, explain resume gaps, or let the recruiter know you’ve done your research on the company you’re applying to.

A cover letter tells the hiring manager why you want to join the company

Ian Siegel , CEO and cofounder of ZipRecruiter, estimates hiring managers spend an average of 20 seconds reviewing a cover letter. They’re looking for the applicant’s reason for wanting to join the company.

“The golden rule of applying to a job is showing specific interest,” he says. “A lot of people write cover letters to describe their background and explain why they’re a fit for the role. But I would start my cover letter with the sentence, ‘I’m so excited to apply to this job because ... ’ and fill in the blank about the business.”

Read more: What to Write to a Hiring Manager: Example Messages & Tips to Help You Get a Response

Benefits of a short cover letter

Executive career strategist, business brand promoter and CEO of Career Trend, Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter , tells InHerSight that “in today’s attention-deprived job market, a short(er) cover letter often is the default.” She notes that “recruiters and resume screeners regularly lament the burden of cover letters.”

“An energy-filled and targeted letter aimed at the reader’s needs can serve to bring your story from being stuck at the virtual bottom of a digital resume pile to the top.” 

Of course, “brevity shouldn't be the primary goal when learning how to write a cover letter,” Kellie Hanna , a career advice expert, says. 

“Instead, you should focus on making a case to an employer that you are the right person for the role. A cover letter allows you to highlight your most relevant skills and experience, showcase your communication skills, and prove to an employer that you are willing to go the extra mile.”

Read more: Ask a Recruiter: How Can I Apply to Jobs More Efficiently?

Must-haves in your short cover letter

Each cover letter you write must be unique, tailored for the company and position. Include keywords from the job ad, which can be helpful if the recruiter is using applicant tracking software. Make the letter skimmable by writing concise, focused paragraphs, and be sure to include at least one achievement relevant to the role you’re applying for.

Hanna says that all cover letters—whether long or short—should be written using a professional tone and must contain the following elements:

A header that contains your name and contact information. This information should match that on your resume.

A salutation , ideally with the hiring manager’s name.

An opening paragraph that introduces you and concisely tells the hiring manager why you are the best fit for the job.

A paragraph that explains why you’re interested in the job and which of your past achievements are most relevant to the role.

A closing paragraph in which you reiterate your interest, thank the hiring manager for reviewing your credentials and invite them to contact you.

A professional sign-off, such as “Sincerely” or “Thank you.”  

Read more: How to Name Drop in a Cover Letter

Barrett-Poindexter explains that “with hundreds of applicants vying for a single position, setting yourself apart with crisp messaging that underlines your value can kindle the right, interview-generating reaction. It can also bring forward one to two key points that match you to the recruiter’s or screener’s needs, either before or after they have scanned your resume.”

She adds that the well-researched and written short cover letter will include these must-have absolutes:

Salutation addressed to the name of the recruiter , influential gate-keeper, or decision-maker in the hiring process.

A strong hint of proof that you know what the industry and company to which you are applying struggles with and how you will help solve their problems.

Evidence that you understand the hiring company's mission and values and how you align with both.

Link to your LinkedIn profile and any related portfolios (including your own personally branded website).

Enough content to provide value, but not so much that you exceed two to three paragraphs, or one-half of a page.

Read more: 21 Cover Letter Tips to Make Writing Quick & Easy

Samples of short cover letters

Hanna provides the following sample of a short cover letter, saying it’s “concise, focusing on key achievements and skills relevant to the job. It invites the reader to consider the applicant's qualifications without going into excessive detail, which is perfect for situations where brevity is appreciated.”

Dear [name of hiring manager],

I am writing to express my interest in the Social Media Coordinator position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job listing]. With over two years of experience in social media management and content creation, I have developed a keen understanding of digital marketing trends and effective communication strategies, specifically within the tech industry.

At my previous position with [Previous Company], I increased our social media engagement by over 50% within six months through targeted content campaigns and analytics-driven strategy adjustments. My graphic design background and my digital marketing certification from [Institution or Course] enhance my ability to produce visually appealing and impactful content.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique talents to the innovative team at [Company Name]. I am eager to contribute to your success by increasing engagement and building a strong community presence online.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached by telephone or email.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Read more: 7 Ways to Start a Cover Letter That Will Set You Apart

Barrett-Poindexter explains that “a one- or two-line cover letter will only serve to introduce the role you are applying for and maybe provide one hook as to your value, but will fall short of providing any kind of meaningfully tailored message. Conversely, anything written longer than a half page likely will bog down the hurried reader.” 

She provides this sample of a short cover letter:

Dear [Name]:

My passion for marketing energized a seven-year career at ABC Company where unrelenting deadlines melded with premier digital, social and product collaborations that contributed to millions in new revenue and profit.

With the wind-down of ABC, I am excited to explore how my exposure to the latest marketing trends can benefit your company. As you can see from the attached resume, my experiences as a strategic marketing leader mirror many of the requirements of the Marketing Communications Manager role, including integrating AI technologies that bolster marketing efficiencies and ROI. 

As well, I love the mission underpinning your objectives and operations and am intrigued by the possibility of helping you navigate your next evolution.

Please feel free to contact me at [phone number] or [email address].

PS – You may find a portfolio of my digital marketing impact at [link].

Read more: Didn’t Get the Job? Here's How to Stay on Their Radar (& When to Reapply)

So, how do you know if you need to write a short cover letter instead of a longer one?

“The decision to submit a short cover letter versus a regular-length one often depends on the specific application, industry norms, specific requests for information in the job ad, and the complexity of your background as it relates to the job position,” says Hanna. 

If a cover letter is optional, you may wish to submit one anyway. Even a short cover letter will let you highlight a skill specific to the role which isn’t sufficiently emphasized in your resume. You’ll also be able to mention a distinct point about the company you’re applying to, showing the hiring manager you’ve spent time researching the organization. The few extra minutes it takes you to write a short cover letter could prove extremely valuable.

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• Cover Letters

Email Cover Letter Sample and Tips

Use a Professional Email Address

State your name and the job in the subject, start with a greeting, what to include, close with a thank you and signature.

• Attach Your Resume Unless Told Otherwise

Writing a hard copy cover letter is becoming less of the norm these days. It is because, more than ever, people are sending job application materials through job websites or via email. It includes submitting resumes and cover letters online.

When asked to submit your job materials (such as your resume and any other related documents) as an email attachment, the email itself acts as your cover letter. 

Here are some tips on how to write and send a quality email cover letter .

First, before you start drafting your letter, make sure your email address is professional.

Along with the subject line, your email address is the first thing the employer will see – it is your first impression.

If you are using an informal address that you created years ago like funnygal@oldemail.com or crazymike@email.com, it may be a good idea to open a new account specifically for communication between you and hiring companies. Get a new professional address that includes your first and last name, if possible.

In the subject line of the email, clearly, state the position you are applying for and also include your name. This way, the hiring manager will know, at a glance, that you are writing to apply for a job. With a clear subject line, the employer is more likely to read the email. Also be sure to proofread your subject line before sending the email – a typo in the subject line is not a good first impression, and might lead to your email being deleted!

If possible,  greet a particular person in your letter . Figuring out the recipient may be as easy as reading the name on the email address in which you are sending your resume. If it isn’t that obvious, double check the job listing to see if a name is mentioned. You can also check the company website (see if there is a directory or list of staff members), or call the company and ask the administrative assistant for help. If none of this works, you can use a greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager.”

An email cover letter includes pretty much the same content as a hard copy cover letter , with a few optional additions. Start your letter by expressing your interest in the job opening, and mention the job title by name. Follow this with some of your previous experience that will show the reader that you are qualified for the position. 

Focus on specific examples when explaining that you have certain qualities or skills. Make sure all of the information you include is directly related to the job for which you are applying.

Do not be afraid to brag a little bit about your accomplishments; this is the time to “sell” yourself to them. 

A benefit to sending your cover letter by email is the ability to attach URLs within the body of your message. For example, if you are applying for a technology-driven position like a web designer, freelance writer, or software developer, you can insert links to work you have done in the past. Nothing shows what a good fit you will be for the job like real-life examples of what you can do.

Finally, close your email cover letter with a thank you and express your readiness to meet the hiring manager in person for an interview. You might also want to add that your resume is attached to the email (if this is the case).

Then, include a closing (such as “Best” or “Sincerely”) and your full name. Underneath your name, include an email signature. It is something you can set up on your email account. It appears at the bottom of every email you send and includes important contact details, such as your email address and phone number. It might also include your full address, employment information, or a link to your LinkedIn profile .

Attach Your Resume (Unless Told Otherwise)

Attach your resume to your email message in the format requested by the employer. If a specific format isn't required, send it as a PDF or Word document. Of course, do not do this if the employer specifically tells you to submit your resume in some other way (such as through a website or via mail).

Sample Email Cover Letter With Resume Attached

Subject:  Communications Director Position - Your Name

Dear Hiring Manager,

I read your job posting for a Communications Director with interest. I am confident that my ten years of experience in communications in both the private and public sector make me an ideal fit for the position.

In my position as Communications Director for XYZ Company, I wrote articles for the company website, managed guest author submissions, and wrote and sent a weekly email newsletter to subscribers. I received consistent praise from the director for my attention to detail and clear, straightforward writing style.

While Assistant Communications Director for Assemblyperson Susan Smith, I researched, drafted and amended legislation, wrote press releases, and was responsible for office communications and correspondence.

I also have extensive experience writing on a freelance basis on labor issues, which, I believe, would be an ideal match for this position. Articles are available for your review at:

Additional writing samples and my resume are attached. If I can provide you with any further information on my background and qualifications, please let me know.

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

Your Name Email Phone LinkedIn URL (Optional)