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Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

What Is an Application Letter?

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

• How to Send an Email Application

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Alex Dos Diaz / The Balance

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

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

Review what to include in a job application letter, tips for writing that will get your application noticed, and examples of cover letters and email messages to send when applying for a job.

Key Takeaways

• An application letter accompanies a resume and may be uploaded to a job portal, sent via email, or even sent by postal mail, depending on the employer’s requirements.
• Application letters are an ideal way to show your interest in a job and highlight your most relevant skills.
• It’s important to match your letter to the job description and show the employer you have the qualifications they are seeking.

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

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

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

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

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

• The heading includes your name and contact information.
• A  greeting  addressed to a specific person, if possible.
• The introduction includes why the applicant is writing.
• The body discusses your relevant qualifications and what you have to offer the employer.
• The close thanks the reader and provides contact information and follow-up details.
• Your  signature to end the letter .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Balance

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

September 6, 2023

George Gilhooley LTC Company 87 Delaware Road Hatfield, CA 08065

Dear Mr. Gilhooley,

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

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

• I have successfully designed, developed, and supported live-use applications.
• I strive continually for excellence.
• I provide exceptional contributions to customer service for all customers.

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

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

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

Signature  (only if a hard copy letter)

John Donaldson

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

Email Application Letter Example

Subject: Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your consideration.

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

How to Send an Email Application Letter

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

Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

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

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

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

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

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

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

60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples 

#1. career change cover letter example .

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

• Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
• Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
• Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.

Check out our guide video guide to learn how to write a Cover Letter that gets you HIRED!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example 

• Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
• Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
• Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.

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

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

• Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements. 
• Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job. 
• Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs. 

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

• Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career. 
• Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.

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

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

Here’s what this cover letter does right: 

• Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail. 
• Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements. 

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

• Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking. 
• Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.  
• Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression. 

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example 

• Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time. 
• A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression. 
• Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.

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

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.  
• Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right? 
• Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.

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

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example 

• Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements. 
• Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.

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

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

• Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template. 
• Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry. 
• Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.

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

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.  
• Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.  
• Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.

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

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter. 
• Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee. 
• Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression. 

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

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

• Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing. 
• Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression. 
• Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability. 

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

• It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in. 
• Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better. 
• Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it. 

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

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example 

• Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template. 
• Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length. 
• Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements. 

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

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

• Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time. 
• Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention. 
• Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for. 

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

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

• Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements. 
• Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are. 
• Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume. 

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

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

• Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action. 
• Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication . 

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

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

• Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles. 
• Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job. 

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

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

• Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
• Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data. 
• Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this. 

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

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities.
• Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job.
• Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements.

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

40+ More Cover Letter Examples and Guides 

Couldn’t find a cover letter example for your field? Do not worry.

Below you can find a number of other cover letter examples for different fields and industries:

• Acting Cover Letter Examples
• Accounting Cover Letter Examples
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Architecture Cover Letter Examples
• Attorney Cover Letter Examples
• Barista Cover Letter Examples
• Bartender Cover Letter Examples
• Business Cover Letter Examples
• Business Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• College Student Cover Letter Examples
• Computer Science Cover Letter Examples
• Construction Cover Letter Examples
• Consultant Cover Letter Examples
• Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
• Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• Data Entry Cover Letter Examples
• Dental Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Digital Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Finance Cover Letter Examples
• Graphic Design Cover Letter Examples
• Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
• Human Resources Cover Letter Examples
• IT Cover Letter Examples
• Law Cover Letter Examples
• Management Cover Letter Examples
• Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter Examples
• Physician Cover Letter Examples
• Project Manager Cover Letter Examples
• Receptionist Cover Letter Examples
• Retail Cover Letter Examples
• Sales Cover Letter Examples
• Social Work Cover Letter Examples
• Software Engineer Cover Letter Examples
• Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Teacher Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Team Leader Cover Letter Example

What is a Cover Letter? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Header - Input your contact information.
• Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
• Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
• The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
• The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
• Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

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

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

#1. Pick the right template

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

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

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

#2. Add your contact details on the header

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

Here’s what you want to include there:

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

Optionally, you can also include the following:

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

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

For example:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Google Search

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

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

• Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
• Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite. 
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible. 

#8. Write a formal closing

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

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

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

#9. Proofread your cover letter

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

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

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

Cover Letter Writing Checklist 

Frequently Asked Questions

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

1. How do I write a simple cover letter? 

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

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

The three parts of a cover letter are: 

• The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph. 
• The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter. 
• The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.

3. What makes a great cover letter?

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

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

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

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

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

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

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

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

• How to Write a Resume
• Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
• Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

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How To Write An Experience Letter (With Format + Examples)

• Best Business Salutations
• Letter of Introduction
• Close a Business Letter
• Job Application Letter
• Business Letter Layout
• To Whom It May Concern
• Letter Of Interest
• Letter Envelope
• Experience Letter
• How To Write A Letter

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Summary. An experience letter is a document written by a current or past employer detailing an employee’s experience in their role. An experience letter should also describe the employee’s attitude and personality.

When you apply for a new job, your potential employer will want to know about your past work experience. There are several avenues you can use to show your experience, including your resume , your portfolio, and an experience letter.

In this article, we’ll go over what experience letters are used for and how to write one, and we’ll share an example experience letter to pull all our advice together.

Key Takeaways

An experience letter is written by your current or past employer, and it details how long you were with the company, the experience you gained there, and your positive attributes.

If you’re the one being asked to write an experience letter for an employee, make sure you feel comfortable explaining what they did and speaking positively about them before you agree to write it.

An experience letter is helpful for backing up your claims about your skills (especially your hard skills) to hiring managers and creating a positive networking connection between you and your current or previous employer.

What Is an Experience Letter?

Preparing to write a work experience letter, how to write an experience letter, experience letter template and example, the benefits of a letter of experience, experience letter faqs, final thoughts.

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An experience letter is a document written by someone who supervises you at your current or previous job. The letter explains how long you were with the company and what experiences you gained while there. A well-written experience letter confirms the details of your job application and resume.

Don’t be worried if you’ve never heard of an experience letter — they’re not very common in the modern world. They’re sometimes called a company experience letter or a letter of experience, but they’re the same thing no matter what name they go by.

If you’re an employer, manager, or supervisor, an employee or former employee may request a work experience letter. Because they aren’t standard, this could be the first time you’re encountering one, and you might not know what to write or even how to write an experience letter.

Don’t worry; we’ve included samples at the bottom for you to reference.

Before looking at those, here are some important things to consider before you agree to write an experience letter:

Do you know enough about what the employee does or did at the company to detail the experience they’ve gained while working there?

Can you give specific examples of the scope of the job and the employee’s involvement?

Is your letter going to be positive?

Are you the appropriate person to ask; are you a manager or supervisor , or just a work buddy?

If you can answer yes to the above questions, then you’re the right person for the job. If you think you’re not the right person to ask, let the individual know as soon as possible. Maybe you can suggest who they should actually be asking.

If you’re writing the letter, this information is going to help you narrow your focus and come up with a positive letter for the employee.

If you are the employee, look through this section carefully and compare it to your letter to make sure that nothing was missed.

An even better tip for employees: You can create a rough outline of the specific skills you’d like to see highlighted. This will help you target your future job and will make it easier for your boss to write your letter of experience.

Be professional . The most important thing in an experience letter is that you are professional through and through. This goes in someone else’s work portfolio , and your authority as a work supervisor is crucial.

Use business letter formatting . Make sure you’re formatting the letter for business. That means you’ll use work letterhead, include a date, the company name, your name, title, a salutation, the body of the letter, and close with a signature.

The body. It’s the body of the letter that can be the most difficult part to write. The rest is just filling in information. Use this as a guideline:

Employee name

Employee’s date of hire

Employee’s title — If there were title changes, include them as well as the dates the changes went into effect.

Describe the different positions the employee held and the duties they performed. If there was an area where they excelled, explain that in detail.

Describe the employee, their attitude, personality, willingness to learn, leadership qualities , etc. Just remember to focus on the good parts.

Finally, write a positive statement about the employee’s potential future.

Note that some sources recommend listing the employee’s salary. We suggest staying away from this topic as it is private information and unrelated to job performance.

Experience Letter Template

[Date Written] To Whom It May Concern: The purpose of this letter is to certify that [employee’s full name] worked as a [job title] in the [department name] of [company name] from [start date] to [end date] . [Employee’s first name] has [skills, early experiences, major accomplishments] [More details of the employee’s key responsibilities and contributions] [Details of the employee’s promotions, as well as soft skills that make them pleasant to work with] We are sure that whatever they chose to do next, they will do it with the same amount of passion and drive that they showed in their many years with our company. We certainly wish [employee first name] all the best in his future, and I would be happy to speak with you personally if you have any questions about their employment with [company name] . Sincerely, [Your name] [Your job title] [Your contact details]

Example Experience Letter

Let’s dive a little deeper into that formal letter format. We touched on it above and gave you some great ideas for how to create the body. But there’s nothing quite as useful as an example. So here we go.

December 1, 2021 The Cat Project Norman Fester, Chief Executive Officer 1234 Mercer Lane Madison, AL 35756 To Whom It May Concern: The purpose of this letter is to certify that Milo Parker has been working in the packaging department of our company since 2007. Milo has shown tremendous drive and dedication to his position. He began working with us on a part-time basis and helped out when it was our busy season. In 2009 he decided to pursue a career with us on a full-time basis and worked as one of our stockers, making sure shelves were properly stocked and that orders were packaged appropriately. In 2010, Milo was promoted to Chief Stocker, and, in addition to his regular stocking duties, he oversaw the other stockers in the department. He has great leadership skills and was an immediate hit with his teammates and his superiors. In 2012 we encouraged Milo to take some managerial classes at the local technical college, at our expense. By the time he had finished a handful of these courses in 2014, we had promoted him to Quality Control Officer . This promotion removed his stocking responsibilities and put him in charge of overseeing the fulfillment area of our growing online sales business. In 2017, Milo expressed an interest in becoming the Supervisor of the Packaging Division. As our company has grown significantly since Milo began, and he knew the packaging department better than most, he was already our top candidate for this position. We were happy that he wanted to assume the role, and this is the role he currently holds at The Cat Project. Milo has incredible organizational skills and is a thoughtful and compassionate team leader . He is always willing to go the extra mile and has big plans for his future. We are sure that whatever he chose to do next, he will do it with the same amount of passion and drive that he has shown in his many years with our company. We certainly wish Milo all the best in his future, and I would be happy to speak with you personally if you have any questions about his employment with The Cat Project. Sincerely, Norman Fester, CEO of The Cat Project [email protected] (123) 987-6543

The reason an experience letter can help you stand out is that it’s not common, and it can accomplish the following things:

Proof of your affiliation with your previous or current employer

Support your resume’s claims about dates employed and duties

Detail what you did and your mastery of those tasks

Verify your skill set, especially hard skills

Build a networking bond between you and your superior

Remind your company of your value and importance

You see, if you’re thinking about leaving your job or you want a promotion , asking for an experience letter can give you a leg up. Not only will you have something to show to prospective new employers, but your current company now has a heads up that you’re thinking about moving on.

They are also forced to look at your importance, which might make them realize they’d rather keep you than try to find someone else to fill your shoes.

How do I start an experience letter?

To start an experience letter, write a sentence like “the purpose of this letter is to certify [employee name]’s time working for XYZ Corp.” Or, “this letter serves to certify that [employee name] worked at XYZ Corp. from [start date] to [end date].”

Can I ask for an experience letter?

Yes, you can ask for an experience letter from your current or former employer. However, if you ask your current employer for an experience letter, they may suspect that you’re applying for other jobs.

Is salary mentioned in an experience letter?

No, salary is not typically mentioned in an experience letter. If you’re submitting an experience letter from a company, it’s likely that you’re also putting them down as a reference .

Why do you need a work experience letter?

You don’t need a work experience letter, but having one helps verify your past accomplishments and professional contributions. If you’re applying for a job in a faraway city or even another country, an experience letter helps to vouch for your skill set.

Can an employer deny a request for an experience letter?

Yes, an employer can deny a request for an experience letter. There is no law requiring anyone to write an experience letter for an employee, so companies may choose not to do this, especially if the employee was fired for behavioral or legal reasons or wasn’t a good worker.

What should be mentioned in an experience letter?

The length of time the employee worked at the company and their title/title changes, responsibilities, and positive attributes should be mentioned in an experience letter.

Not all letters of experience will be this thorough, and some will be much longer. It all depends on the level of experience, the detail needed to explain the position, and the person writing the letter, and the employee.

For employers, a letter of experience lets potential employers know why you value this employee. It might make you realize that you’re about to lose a great hire, which is a good time to take stock and decide if you need to do something to keep them.

But if your company doesn’t fit with their future goals or plans, then writing a letter and wishing them well is a great way to show that you appreciate their years of service.

Both parties need to remember that this is a professional document. It’s not a place for emotions, good or bad. It’s just business. Keep the request professional, and the resulting letter should also reflect a level of business-minded acumen.

The HR Digest – Experience Letter Format, Sample, Tips & Examples

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Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.

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• Experience Letter Format

Work Experience Letter

When you are moving from one job to another, a work experience letter makes a huge difference. It describes the experience and skills you have acquired in the organization. Your self-worth and capabilities will reach a new high. It acts as a supporting document for the information given by you in your resume. For employers whose employee is relieving and requires an experienced and  employment verification letter ,  take a look at these examples.

Work Experience Letter Examples & Templates

1. free work experience letter.

• Google Docs

This template is one you can download for writing to a company with the interest of gaining work experience . This printable and easy to edit file is free for download. You can customize it and also get it in three formats. It has all the fields you need to fill to get work experience.

2. Free Engineering Work Experience Letter

Want to certify the work experience of an engineer? Download this free engineering work experience letter template . This example will allow you to list all the candidate’s credentials. It is easy to edit and has space for all the necessary details. You can download it for free and customize this print-ready sheet.

3. Work Experience Letter From Employer

Size: A4 & US

It is your duty as an employer to give your employee a work experience letter. Should you find it hard to do it, the above template is what you can trust. The Free Work Experience Letter From Employer is free to download in all formats. You can edit it if needed. Print it out personally or through commercial services.

4. Electrician Work Experience Letter

If any electrician needs your help to certify his work experience and credentials, look no further than here. Use this free electrician work experience template and give a world-class letter. It is well written and is free and instant to download. You can easily edit as per your requirements. It supports both Mac and Windows.

5. Work Experience Letterhead Template

Size: 27 KB

6. Work experience letter Template

Size: 219 KB

Are you a student looking to write a splendid and persuasive work experience letter? Download this free PDF file and edit it to your requirements. It is easily editable, and you can download it from anywhere at any time. All you have to do is to fill in your details. It is that simple with this example. Rest assures as this template will help you get the experience you deserve.

7. Work Experience Cover Letter

Size: 84 KB

You can use this template if you are applying to a job that was advertised. It can be used by university graduates and even students. Get an insight into what to include when applying for the job. Check out more job application letters and examples here. This template is in PDF file. Of course, it is free to download.

8. Employer Work Experience Letter

Size: 246 KB

Reference letters  play an essential part in getting students a chance to gain experience. If you are looking to recommend a student for work experience, this format is perfect. The above PDF file is free to download and is easy to access for editing. This simple file is downloadable from anywhere at any time.

9. Sample Work Experience Letter

Size: 99 KB

For students who are looking to gain experience as interns at a particular company, the letter should be persuasive. If you find it hard to type one for any reason, download this template and get it done swiftly. All you need is to fill in your details along with the employers. Download it for free and access it from anywhere.

10. Work Experience Certificate Letter

Size: 177 KB

Are you an employer searching for the perfect format to give an experience letter? This example is an ideal format to certify your relieving employee. Insert your company’s letterhead and fill in the details. The outline is already placed to save you time and all the hard work.  It’s short, simple and easy to download.

11.Letter for Work Experience

Size: 13 KB

For young interns searching for a place to get some experience, use this letter to inquire into the possibility of gaining work experience. This simple format is easy to edit where all you have to do is just type in your details. It is print-ready and free to download.

12. Student’s Work Experience Letter

Size: 73 KB

Students and fresh graduates must take a look at this sample work experience letter. It helps you get a place to earn experience in any company in your field and choice. This single page, the print-ready format is so simple to read. Fill in your details in the place that is already given to you. Download it for free.

General FAQs

1. what is a work experience letter.

A work experience letter is a formal letter that is issued by the employer to an employee. It certifies the employee’s experience with the current organization and is used by employees at the time of job search.

2. When Should You Accept to Write an Employee’s Work Experience letter?

You should accept an employee’s request to write a work experience letter when you have direct knowledge of the employee’s work experience and skills. You should also be able to provide examples of the work habits of the employee in a positive manner.

3. What Information Goes Into a Work Experience Letter?

The following information goes into a work experience letter:

• Company letterhead
• Date of issuance
• Employee’s full name and designation
• Employee’s period of employment within an organization
• Employee description and a positive statement about the employee’s future.

4. What Are the Uses of a Work Experience Letter?

Following are the uses of a work experience letter:

• It acts as proof that an employee has worked in an organization
• It shows the skills and experience gained by the employee
• It helps an employee to apply for other jobs
• It helps new employers decide the wages to be paid.

5. What are Some Work Experience Letter Writing Tips?

Here are some work experience letter writing tips:

• Keep the letter brief by verifying qualifications and ability
• Note the employee’s job title, dates of employment, and designation
• State if there were any issues with the employee or praise any exceptional work or qualities.

Letter Maker

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