good cover letter for curriculum vitae

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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

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

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

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

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

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

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

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

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

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

1. Personalization

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

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

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

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

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

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

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

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

Clear and concise writing

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

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

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

Achievements and accomplishments

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

Enthusiasm and motivation

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

Professionalism

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

How do you structure a cover letter?

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

Contact information

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

Employer's contact information

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

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

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

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

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

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

1. Add a header and contact information

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

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

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

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

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

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

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

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

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

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

3. Draw them in with an opening story

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

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

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

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

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

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

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

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

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

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

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

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

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

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

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

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

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

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

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

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

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

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

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

Should I include references in my cover letter?

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

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

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

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

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

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

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

Ace your job search

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

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

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

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

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How To Write a Cover Letter for a CV (With Examples)

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter for a CV

Proofread before sending, cover letter template, cover letter sample, sending an email cover letter, more cover letter examples.

When you apply for a job with a  curriculum vitae  (CV), it's important to include a cover letter, also known as a covering letter. This letter allows you to make a favorable first impression, using narrative in your own tone of voice to catch the reader’s attention and encourage them to seriously review your attached CV.

Like a resume, a CV summarizes your skills and experience. The  difference between a CV and a resume  is length, the focus on credentials, and what the documents are used for. Typically, a CV is required to apply for roles in academia, scientific research, and medical fields. 

While your CV provides a detailed—and often lengthy—look at your experience and credentials, the cover letter is an opportunity to call out your most important qualifications and make a compelling case for your candidacy for the role at hand. Here's what you need to know to write a successful curriculum vitae cover letter. 

Tailor the Letter to Fit the Organization

The CV cover letter should be  tailored to respond to the unique and specific requirements  requested by each organization you are approaching. 

Do not use the same cover letter for every job you apply to, even though it may seem like a timesaver. 

Each letter needs to provide detailed information about why are you are qualified for the specific job in question, and it should outline the reasons for your interest in the company or organization. Being specific is advantageous. Even if you're applying for two similar roles in two different hospitals, the two hospitals may serve different populations or require slightly different responsibilities for people in the role. Your letters to each hospital should reflect that. 

Use your cover letter to identify the skills or experiences most specific to the job, rather than copying directly the information in your CV.

What to Include

As a candidate, it's tempting to feel like the cover letter is unnecessary, since it is likely that all the pertinent information is included in your CV. Still, as you can see, the cover letter is a helpful tool in your application. Here's what to keep in mind as you write a cover letter. 

Format Matters

The content of your cover letter should be brief and structured. Aim for 3-5 paragraphs in your letter.  Start with a salutation. Your letter should address the relevant contact, whose name often appears in the job advertisement. Avoid “Sir” or “Madam” if possible.

If the letter recipient's name isn't provided, try these  tips to determine the correct contact person . 

Start With an Introduction

Typically, the first paragraph will be an introduction—if you are applying to a job ad, mention it here. Mention the job title, any reference number, and where and when you saw it. The first paragraph is also where you should mention if someone referred you to the position. 

The Body of the Cover Letter

The body of the letter—the second and third paragraphs—should highlight your relevant skills and experience. Highlight your  transferable skills , achievements, and versatility. Explain what you can contribute and what makes you stand out from your competition. Include mention of your current or last job, qualifications, and professional and academic training, tailoring your information to make it as relevant as possible to the organization or job applied for.

In the body of the cover letter, you can mention personality traits relevant to the role at hand. You can also use this space to call out why you're interested in this specific role, at this specific company. Potential employers and hiring managers will appreciate it if you can show you've read the job ad and researched the company. 

Avoid lengthy repetition of information covered in your CV. Unlike a CV, it is acceptable to write a cover letter in the first person.

Conclude the letter by succinctly summarizing why an employer may want to meet and employ you. Include a polite expression of interest in further dialogue with the recruiter. Do mention that you would like the opportunity to discuss your suitability further in a personal interview and that you await a response in due course.

Follow Instructions 

In some cases, an advertisement will indicate that a more substantial letter is required. 

Always follow specific instructions and include any information if it is specifically requested. For instance, some employers may ask you to include your current salary or your desired salary range. 

Make Sure the Letter Reads Well 

Ensure that your CV cover letter flows freely. You do not need to precisely match every point on the job description. The reader should be left with an overall impression that you are a potentially valuable addition to the workforce.

The letter should be readable and engaging. 

Negative information of any sort should be avoided in your cover letter, as well as on your CV.

You'll want to be sure your letter is free from grammar or spelling errors. It should also be clearly presented—that means using standard formatting, and common  readable fonts  (such as Times New Roman or Verdana) in an appropriate size. 

This is a cover letter example. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Depending on the employer's submission requirements, cover letters can be submitted online with your CV, uploaded online, or mailed. Be sure to follow the application instructions and follow the directions on how to apply. Consider this template for how to structure your letter: 

Belinda Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 belinda.applicant@gmail.com

October 25, 2021

Clark Lee, PhD Biology Department Chair Northwestern University 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Dr, Lee:

I am writing to apply for the position of assistant professor in the Biology department, as described in the Northern University website. The opportunity to teach biology appeals to me, and I believe I can be an asset to the department due to my experience as a field biologist, as well as my work as an adjunct professor at Southern State University. In accordance with your job description, I have the following skills:

• Experience lecturing to large audiences

• Experience with learning management systems and course design

• Ability to assist with labs for other professors

• Experience with grant writing and research

I have enclosed my curriculum vitae so you may examine my work and research experience, the papers I’ve published, and my educational background.

I can be reached anytime by email at Belinda.applicant@gmail.com or my cell phone, 555-555-5555. Thank you so much for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this position.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Belinda Applicant

When you are sending your cover letter by email, list your contact information in your signature rather than at the top of the letter. List your name and the job title in the subject line of the message. 

Here are more examples of cover letters that you can use as a starting point for your own correspondence.

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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12 CV cover letter examples

A  cover letter  for your CV, or covering note is an introductory message that accompanies your CV when applying for a job.

The purpose of the cover letter is simple… Persuade the reader to open your CV.

Learn how to write a cover letter properly, and you will hugely increase your chances of getting responses and landing job interviews.

This guide, with 12 annotated cover letter examples will show you everything you need to know about creating a winning cover note.

CV templates 

How to layout a cover letter for your CV

This annotated example of a cover letter shows you how you should structure your cover letters, and the type of information you should be including.

You should always write your CV in the body of your email (or j ob site messaging system) so that it can be read instantly. Never attach it as a separate document, or the recipient probably won’t open it.

Example CV cover letters

These 11 example CV cover letters from a range of industries should give you some good inspiration for creating your own cover letter.

Admin CV cover letter

This cover letter is aimed at administrative roles , so it highlights the candidate’s abilities in efficiency, report writing and meeting deadlines, whilst demonstrating the types of environments they have worked in.

Learn how to write a cover letter step-by-step here.

Customer service CV cover letter

This customer service cover letter briefly explains the candidate’s length of experience in the field and highlights some of the more important customer service skills such as call handling, order taking and complaint resolution.

This gives the reader an excellent introduction to the candidate and should certainly encourage them to open the CV.

See our full customer service cover letter guide,  sales assistant cover letter example  and waiter/waitress cover letter example .

Finance CV cover letter

As a finance professional, it’s important to highlight your specialisms within finance, the types of companies you’ve worked for, and high level functions you’ve carried out within your cover letter. This will give the hiring manager a good overall feel of your abilities, and if it’s well tailored to the role, should provide them with enough info to excite them about your CV.

Quick tip: Use our job application tracker spreadsheet to track your applications and follow up with employers who don’t respond.

Events CV cover letter

This events manager candidate has done a great job of summarising the type and size of events they manage, along with details of core skills such as leadership, project delivery and stakeholder management.

This certainly provides enough info to create a buzz around the CV attached and encourage the recipient to open it.

Executive assistant CV cover letter

This executive assistant CV cover letter provides a good high level intro to the candidate showing the reader key business support knowledge in areas such as admin, diary management and document management. It also shows that the candidate is confident supporting senior business figures.

Graduate CV cover letter

As a graduate , your cover letter will need to be a little longer than an experienced candidates, to compensate for your lack of experience and really sell yourself.

This candidate speaks in lots of detail about their education, qualifications, and extra-curricular work which relates to the roles they are applying for.

IT CV cover letter

As an IT candidate, it’s important not only to highlight your technical skills, but also show how you apply those skills in the workplace to translate real benefits for your employer.

This candidate gives a good overview of the candidates technical abilities and the types of projects they apply them to, along with results they achieve.

Marketing CV cover letter

This marketing cover letter provides readers with a summary of the candidate’s core marketing abilities such as media planning, brand awareness and cost reduction. It also explains the types of marketing campaigns and companies they have experience with – a great high-level intro.

Cover letter examples

Warehouse Operative cover letter – Training Contract cover letter – Cleaning Job cover letter – Nursery Assistant cover letter – Recruitment Consultant cover letter – Dental Nurse cover letter –

Chef cover letter – Editorial Assistant cover letter – Aircraft Mechanic cover letter – Biomedical Science cover letter – Cabin Crew cover letter – Finance Assistant cover letter – Hotel Receptionist cover letter – Asset Management cover letter – Assistant Psychologist cover letter – Beauty Therapist cover letter – Cafe Worker cover letter – HR Administrator cover letter – NQT cover letter – Quantity Surveyor cover letter

More cover letter examples

• Academic cover letter
• Account Manager cover letter
• Accountant cover letter
• Accounting cover letter
• Accounts Assistant cover letter
• Acting cover letter
• Admin Assistant cover letter
• Administrator cover letter
• Apprenticeship cover letter
• Architecture cover letter
• Assistant Manager cover letter
• Banking cover letter
• Bar Staff cover letter
• Barclays cover letter
• Barista cover letter
• Bartender cover letter
• Business Analyst cover letter
• Business Development Manager cover letter
• Car Sales Person cover letter
• Care Assistant cover letter
• Career Change cover letter
• Catering Assistant cover letter
• Civil Engineer cover letter
• Computer Science cover letter
• Consulting cover letter
• Copywriter cover letter
• Cyber Security cover letter
• Data Entry Clerk cover letter
• Data Scientist cover letter
• Delivery Driver cover letter
• Digital Marketing cover letter
• Electrician cover letter
• Engineering cover letter
• Estate Agent cover letter
• Event Manager cover letter
• Exam Invigilator cover letter
• Executive Assistant cover letter
• Fashion Designer cover letter
• Finance cover letter
• Financial Analyst cover letter
• Google cover letter
• Graduate cover letter
• Graduate Engineer cover letter
• Graduate Scheme cover letter
• Graphic Design cover letter
• Health Care Assistant cover letter
• Hospitality cover letter
• HR Assistant cover letter
• HR cover letter
• Interior Designer cover letter
• Internal Position cover letter
• Internship cover letter
• Investment Banking cover letter
• Investment Manager cover letter
• IT Support cover letter
• Journalist cover letter
• JP Morgan cover letter
• Lawyer cover letter
• Legal Assistant cover letter
• Legal cover letter
• Library Assistant cover letter
• Manager cover letter
• Marine Engineer cover letter
• Marketing Assistant cover letter
• Marketing cover letter
• Marketing Intern cover letter
• Marketing Manager cover letter
• McKinsey cover letter
• Mechanical Engineer cover letter
• Medical Receptionist cover letter
• Medical Writer cover letter
• Model cover letter
• Nanny cover letter
• Nurse cover letter
• Nursing cover letter
• Office Assistant cover letter
• Office Manager cover letter
• Operations Manager cover letter
• Optical Assistant cover letter
• Paralegal cover letter
• Part Time cover letter
• PE Teacher cover letter
• Personal Assistant cover letter
• Personal Trainer cover letter
• Pharmacist cover letter
• Pharmacy Assistant cover letter
• PHD Application cover letter
• Photographer cover letter
• Placement cover letter
• Private Equity cover letter
• Product Manager cover letter
• Production Assistant cover letter
• Production Operator cover letter
• Project Coordinator cover letter
• Promotion cover letter
• PWC cover letter
• Quantity Surveyor cover letter
• Receptionist cover letter
• Research Assistant cover letter
• Researcher cover letter
• Retail Assistant cover letter
• Retail cover letter
• Retail Manager cover letter
• Sales Advisor cover letter
• Sales Executive cover letter
• Sales Manager cover letter
• Scrum Master cover letter
• Security Officer cover letter
• Ski Season cover letter
• Social Media Executive cover letter
• Social Media Manager cover letter
• Software Developer cover letter
• Software Engineer cover letter
• Speculative cover letter
• Student cover letter
• Support Worker cover letter
• Teaching Assistant cover letter
• Team Leader cover letter
• Trainee Dental Nurse cover letter
• University cover letter
• UX Designer cover letter
• Volunteer cover letter

Project manager CV cover letter

A project manager’ s cover letter needs to quickly explain to recipients the types of projects they lead and the technical expertise they bring to the projects. It’s also important to describe level of experience, seniority and background.

See full project manager cover letter example + writing guide

Operations manager cover letter

This operations management CV provides a brief introduction to the types of operations the candidate manages and the firms they work for.

They also touch upon some core operations skills such as efficiency, logistics and ROI improvement.

Sales CV cover letter

As a sales candidate, this cover letter shows the types of business this person can generate and the size and scale of the impact they create by highlighting some sales results.

It also mentions some core sales skills like business development, presenting, working under pressure and closing deals.

Cover letter templates

Teacher cover letter

This teacher cover letter does a great job of introducing the candidate, and showing the recipient the key facts they will be looking for, such as; the age group they teach, subject specialisms, and the results they have achieved.

The cover letter is brief and gets to the point quickly, so that readers will instantly look to open the attached CV .

How to write your CV cover letter

Now that you’ve seem good examples of cover letters to accompany your CV (or resume if you are in the USA) this guide will show exactly how to write your own, and the content that needs to be included .

Send your CV cover letter in email format (when possible)

When applying for jobs online you usually have 2 choices…

1) Send a message via the job website’s messaging system

2) Send the recruiter an email directly

If you can find an email address for the recruiter, then I would always recommend sending an email directly because it gives you more control.

When you send a message through a job website, it will transfer into an email with basic formatting and an auto-generated headline , which will look like this when the recruiter receives it.

If you cannot find an email address for the recruiter on the job advert, then try searching LinkedIn or the company website to find the relevant contact.

You may not always be able to find an email address, but when you can – always send a job application by email .

Make your subject line appealing

As you can see in the picture above, a bad subject line can kill your chances of actually having your email read in the first place.

Your subject line should stand out and give the recruiter a reason to open your email.

When recruiters look into their inbox, they are looking for one thing; a candidate who can do the job they are advertising – so give that to them in your subject line.

Your subject line should be a short summary of your experience that relates directly to the job you are applying for.

The following are good subject line examples;

KS2 Teacher with 5 years experience

Front End Web developer with HTML, HTML & JavaScript experience

Junior Graphic designer with 1st BA Hons Graphic Design

If your subject line shows that you have one or two of the most important requirements for the job, your email should get opened every time.

Address the recruiter by name

To get the relationship off on the right foot, you should try to address the recruiter by name if you can.

Often the recruiter’s details will appear on the job advert but sometimes you may have to check out the company website or do some digging around on LinkedIn.

If you really can’t find the name, then it’s not the end of the world – just start with a simple friendly opening like “ Hi ”

(If you applying to a more traditional organisation such as an academic post for a university, you may want to use something a bit more formal like “ Dear sir or madam ”)

Use a friendly yet professional tone

It’s important to sound professional when writing a cover letter but you also need to demonstrate your ability to communicate with other people and show some personality.

If your email is too casual and written in an over-familiar tone, then you will come across us un-professional.

But on the other hand, if your email is too formal and shows no signs of rapport building, you risk appearing as somebody who lacks social skills.

So when writing your cover letter, try to strike a nice balance of professionalism and friendliness.

Opening with a line such as “ hope you’re well ” is a nice way to breathe a bit of personality into your cover letter.

Ensure that your spelling and grammar is perfect throughout your cover letter because sloppy mistakes are a huge red flag for recruiters.

Quick tip:  If you struggle with spelling and grammar, try our quick-and-easy CV Builder

Keep it brief

Unless the job advert specifies otherwise; keep your cover letter short and sweet.

Recruiters and employers receive hundreds of job applications per week, so they don’t want to read a 2 page cover letter.

Depending on the role, around 2-4 sentences should be enough for the content of the cover letter.

You just need to write enough to persuade them to open your CV – It should roughly contain the same amount of information as your CV profile or personal statement.

Show how your skills match the job

To ensure that recruiters open your CV, you simply need to explain how your skills and experience match the job requirements from the advert.

Scan the job advert to discover what the most important candidate abilities are, and show how your previous experience has prepared you to cover these.

In particular, look out for any requirements that are essential to the job .

Focus on what you have to offer at this stage and not what you want.

At this stage, your covering letter is simply a means of getting the recruiter to open your CV, so it’s too early to talk about salary demands etc. Save that for your initial conversation with the recruiter.

Include a professional signature

End your cover letter with a friendly salutation such as “Regards” and a smart signature which includes your name and most direct contact method (usually mobile phone for most people)

A professional email signature will show recruiters that you understand business-email etiquette and ensure they have a means of contacting you – even if they can’t open your CV for any reason.

Writing a CV cover letter

Hopefully this guide has given you everything you need to create a winning cover letter that will ensure you CV gets opened every time you send it.

Just remember to keep it brief, be friendly, tailor it towards your target role, and give recruiters some good reasons to be interested in you.

Good luck with the job hunt!

500+ Cover Letter Examples and How to Get Yours Right

Learn from real professional cover letter examples for 500+ different job titles. These cover letter samples will guide you through writing your own cover letter for your dream job.

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Writing a cover letter doesn’t have to be hard. It can be as easy as choosing the right greeting, telling your experience through results, and following a proven cover letter example.

What is a cover letter and what does it contain

A cover letter is a letter of introduction that you attach to your resume when you apply for a job. Oftentimes, job ads call it a covering letter, letter of motivation, or a letter of introduction – it’s all the same thing.

Ideally, you should aim at half-page to full-page . Its purpose is to introduce you to a potential employer and tell an inspiring story of your career and why you should be their next hire. Here’s a full guide on cover letter length that we’ve prepared.

A good cover letter can be separated into five different segments : salutation, opener, body, call to action, and closer . When appropriate, you can cover any gaps in employment, your availability, and if you’re ready to relocate.

Now, let’s dig deeper into the sections that a good cover letter includes .

Share your own contact details along with the recipient's contact information.

Introduce yourself and state the purpose of your letter. The salutation shows respect to the recipient and is tailored to the individual, if possible, to add a personal touch.

Elaborate on your qualifications, experience, and skills related to the job. This section is the core of your cover letter, offering compelling evidence of why you're the ideal candidate for the position.

Reiterate your interest, sign-off and request a follow-up.

Marketing cover letter examples

Move up the ladder in your marketing career with a cover letter that grabs the recruiting manager’s heart. Find your position below and take a closer look into how you should build your marketing cover letter with an example below.

• Creative Marketing
• Social Media Manager
• Digital Marketing Intern
• Product Marketing Manager
• Marketing Director
• Social Media Specialist
• Brand Ambassador
• Creative Digital Marketing
• Marketing Assistant
• Social Media Coordinator
• Digital Marketing Specialist
• Creative Manager
• Content Marketing
• Content Strategist
• Marketing Associate
• Email Marketing
• Brand Manager
• Digital Marketing Manager
• Email Marketing Manager
• Associate Marketing Manager
• Marketing Specialist
• Digital Marketing Analyst
• Sales And Marketing
• Social Media Intern
• Digital Marketing Executive
• Marketing Coordinator
• PPC Specialist
• Communications Specialist
• Campaign Manager
• Influencer Marketing
• Product Marketing
• SEO Manager
• Content Writer
• Public Relations Specialist
• Digital Marketing
• VP Marketing
• Telemarketing
• VP Digital Marketing
• Ecommerce Marketing
• Marketing Project Manager
• Community Manager
• Branding Manager
• Director of Communications
• Senior Marketing Manager
• Growth Marketing
• Marketing Executive
• Digital Marketing Consultant
• Social Media Marketing
• Content Creator
• Social Media Influencer
• Associate Brand Manager
• Assistant Brand Manager
• Web Content Manager
• Brand Marketing Manager
• Advertising
• SEO Specialist
• Media Manager
• PPC Manager
• Social Media Director
• Communications Coordinator
• Commercial Director
• Experiential Marketing
• Public Relations Manager
• International Marketing Manager
• Communication Manager
• Content Manager
• Business Marketing
• Sports Marketing
• Affiliate Marketing
• Brand Director
• Public Relations Director
• Membership Manager
• Fashion Marketing
• Content Designer
• Assistant Community Manager
• Communications Officer
• Channel Marketing Manager
• Affiliate Marketing Manager
• Ad Operations Manager
• Internal Communications
• Content Editor
• Event Marketing
• Field Marketing Manager
• Regional Marketing Manager
• News Director
• Engagement Manager
• Brand Marketing
• Trade Marketing Manager
• Digital Marketing Account Manager
• Analytics Manager
• Advertising Agency
• Advertising Manager
• Digital Advertising
• Entry Level Digital Marketing
• Assistant Marketing Manager
• Digital Account Manager
• Marketing Manager

Medical cover letter examples

Show your true medical potential with the power of a well-structured, professional cover letter. Choose from one of our custom-made examples and make a cover letter that gets you the job.

• Dental Hygienist

Education cover letter examples

Let your academic accomplishments speak for themselves. Choose a cover letter template around education and focus on the important things by following our templates.

• University Faculty
• Special Education Teacher
• Campus Director

Operations cover letter examples

The world goes around thanks to operations specialists. Communicate you vision for the future with potential employers and focus on how you can help the company you’re applying at grow.

• Executive Assistant
• Administrative Assistant

Hospitality cover letter examples

Working in the hospitality industry requires calm, focus, and perseverance. Tell your story to employers by following our time-proven cover letter templates and get that new job.

• Restaurant Manager
• Hospitality

Construction & maintenance cover letter examples

Build your cover letter using one of our cover letter templates around the construction and maintenance industry. Focus on your strengths and let our cover letter builder do the job.

• Architectural Designer
• Maintenance Technician

Entertainment cover letter examples

Focus on your capabilities and let your character shine through one of the cover letter examples below.

• Video Producer
• Game Design
• Motion Graphics

Finance & banking cover letter examples

Sum up your skills and experience and show employers your character with a professional cover letter. Just follow one of the examples below and you’ll be on your way to a new job.

• Finance Director
• Accounts Clerk

Human resources cover letter examples

Spend time communicating your HR skills and experience. Just pick a cover letter example that matches your job and follow the instructions in the article.

• Talent Acquisition Manager
• Recruiting Coordinator
• HR Business Partner
• Human Resources
• Director Of Operations
• District Manager
• Training Manager
• HR Assistant
• HR Recruiter
• Recruitment Manager
• Human Resources Specialist
• Chief Of Staff
• Contracts Manager
• Senior Recruiter
• Benefits Specialist
• HR Generalist
• Human Resources Coordinator
• Technical Recruiter
• HR Director
• People Manager
• Problem Manager
• Knowledge Manager
• Benefits Analyst
• Transition Manager
• Change Management
• Corporate Recruiter
• Benefits Manager
• Continuous Improvement Manager
• Contract Analyst
• Diversity And Inclusion Manager
• People Operations Manager
• HR Program Manager
• HR Project Manager
• Training Director
• Talent Manager
• Assistant Operations Manager
• Human Resources Consultant
• Staffing Manager

IT & software engineering cover letter examples

Show how serious you are about your future and career growth with a well-written cover letter. Pick one of the job matching examples below and just follow our guidelines.

• Full Stack Developer
• Software Engineering Intern
• Software Developer

C-Level management cover letter examples

Cover letters are a great way to communicate the way you think and how you see the future. Pick a template that’s made for your position and use our cover letter builder to make yours shine.

Project management cover letter examples

Tell the story of how you make ideas into real-life products thanks to your project management skills. Choose an example that’s made for your job position and build your cover letter.

• Program Manager
• Communications
• IT Project Manager
• Technical Project Manager
• Scrum Master
• Project Manager

Science cover letter examples

A cover letter can help you tell your story and make your resume that much better. Choose one of our science-related cover letter examples and make yours shine.

• Lab Technician

Engineering cover letter examples

Present your love for making concepts a reality. Click on an engineering cover letter example that’s made for your position and follow the guide. You’ll be sure to build a cover letter that makes you stand out.

• Entry Level Civil Engineer
• Chemical Engineer
• Process Engineer
• Industrial Engineer
• Systems Engineer
• Construction Superintendent
• Construction Manager
• Aerospace Engineering
• Design Engineer
• Engineering Manager
• Project Engineer
• Engineering
• Structural Engineer
• Mechanical Design Engineer
• Quality Engineer
• Senior Engineer
• Product Engineer
• Audio Engineer
• Energy Manager
• Manufacturing Engineer
• Engineer In Training
• Director of Engineering
• Infrastructure Engineer
• Entry Level Mechanical Engineer
• Construction Worker
• Electrical Engineering
• Landscape Architect
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Biomedical Engineer
• Petroleum Engineer
• Automotive Engineering
• Electrical Project Manager
• VP of Engineering
• Engineering Intern
• Architectural Project Manager
• Electrical Manager
• Senior Electrical Engineer
• Senior Mechanical Engineer
• Engineering Program Manager
• Engineering Project Manager
• Reliability Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Controls Engineer

Sales cover letter examples

Use a cover letter to impress hiring managers with your story. Show your understanding of human psychology by using a cover letter on top of your resume. Just pick a cover letter example and follow the guide.

• Vice President of Sales
• Sales Representative
• Sales Manager
• Head of Sales
• Director Of Sales
• Vp Of Sales
• Supply Chain

Business development cover letter examples

Your expertise is everything when it comes to business development positions. Focus on your skills and tie them in with your accomplishments – just pick a cover letter example that suits your position.

• General Manager
• Business Analyst
• Business Development
• Business Development Manager

Retail cover letter examples

Create a cover letter that gets you remembered. Pick a cover letter example from the retail industry and make a job application that gets you remembered.

• Warehouse Manager
• Inventory Manager

Legal cover letter examples

Applying for a job in the legal industry with a cover letter is almost always a must. Pick a cover letter example that fits your needs and get to writing.

• Accounts Payable
• Legal Assistant
• Personal Injury Paralegal
• Trial Lawyer
• General Counsel
• Real Estate Attorney
• Associate Attorney
• Litigation Paralegal
• Immigration Paralegal
• Senior Attorney
• Patent Lawyer
• Senior Paralegal
• In House Counsel
• Real Estate Legal Assistant
• Immigration Lawyer
• Personal Injury Legal Assistant
• Corporate Lawyer
• Trademark Attorney
• Litigation Attorney
• Entry-Level Attorney
• Litigation Lawyer
• Employment Lawyer
• M&A Lawyer
• Real Estate Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer
• Contract Attorney
• Corporate Counsel
• Personal Injury Lawyer

Customer relationship management cover letter examples

Show your experience in handling client-related issues with a well-written cover letter. Focus on your skills and tie in your accomplishments with what the company you’re applying to needs.

• Technical Account Manager
• Account Executive
• Customer Success Manager
• Customer Service Associate

Real estate cover letter examples

Show your talent in finding, marketing, and selling homes quickly. Use one of your cover letter examples and build yours in minutes.

• Interior Designer
• Real Estate Agent
• Property Manager
• Facility Manager
• Interior Design
• Senior Property Manager
• Assistant Property Manager
• Real Estate Portfolio Manager
• Real Estate Broker
• Real Estate Assistant
• Estate Agent
• Real Estate Developer
• Real Estate Sales Manager
• Real Estate Manager
• Real Estate Salesperson
• Real Estate Professional
• Real Estate Appraiser
• Mortgage Broker
• Commercial Real Estate Agent
• House Manager
• Real Estate Intern

Innovation management cover letter examples

There’s no better way to communicate your experience and vision for the future than using a cover letter – choose an example and just follow the instructions.

• Business consultant cover letter examples
• Network administrator cover letter examples
• Change management cover letter examples
• Innovation engineer cover letter examples

Product management cover letter examples

Your work makes a company tick. Tell your experience in building products with a cover letter that adds to your resume.

• Product Owner
• Procurement Manager

Transportation cover letter examples

Focus on accomplishments and skills while you’re writing your cover letter. Tie it in with the needs of the company you’re applying for.

• Truck Driver

Data cover letter examples

Your ability to work with data is valuable to most modern companies. Show them a story-driven cover letter and get the hiring manager’s attention by simply following one of the guides below.

• Data Analyst Entry Level
• Business Data Analyst

Investment cover letter examples

What makes a good investment? You know it, so show it in a cover letter that matches your resume. Follow our guide below and create a cover letter that stands out.

Accounting and Finance

• Staff Accountant
• Chief Financial Officer
• Compliance Officer
• Oracle Project Accounting
• Financial Analyst
• Construction Accounting
• External Auditor
• Audit Manager
• Credit Analyst
• Senior Accountant
• Entry Level Financial Analyst
• Financial Consultant
• Government Accounting
• Billing Specialist
• Risk Manager
• Purchase Accounting
• Audit Director
• Payroll Manager
• Accounting Assistant
• Management Accounting
• Accounting Analyst
• VP of Finance
• Financial Accountant
• Fund Accountant
• Director of Accounting
• Lending manager
• Financial Advisor
• Cost Accounting
• Senior Financial Analyst
• Business Analyst Accounting
• Public Accounting
• Hotel Accounting
• Financial Accounting
• Accounts Payable Specialist
• Payroll Director
• Compliance Analyst
• Night Auditor
• Hotel Night Auditor
• Project Accounting
• Financial Controller
• Financial Professional
• Big 4 Accounting
• Public Accounting Auditor
• Credit Manager
• Commercial Banking
• Tax Manager
• Entry Level Actuary
• Forensic Accounting
• Compensation Analyst
• General Ledger Accounting
• Accounting Supervisor
• Financial Risk Analyst
• Phone Banking
• Collections Specialist
• Treasury Analyst
• Compensation Manager
• Senior Tax Accountant
• Corporate Accounting
• Full Cycle Accounting
• Loan Officer
• Personal Banker
• Internal Audit Manager
• Revenue Accountant
• Financial Auditor
• Finance Manager
• Functional Accounting
• Payroll Admin
• Bank Manager
• Payroll Analyst
• Stock Broker
• Purchase Manager
• Big 4 Auditor
• Accounts Payable Manager
• Private Equity
• Pricing Analyst
• Bank Branch Manager
• Corporate Banking
• Treasury Manager
• Accounts Payable Clerk
• Bid Manager
• Loan Processor
• Portfolio Manager
• Investment Banking Associate
• Finance Intern
• Investment Banking Analyst
• Senior Auditor
• Accounts Receivable
• Finance Business Analyst
• Tax Director
• Financial Counselor
• Certified Financial Planner
• Financial Reporting Analyst
• Tax Accountant
• Finance Officer
• Financial Data Analyst
• Financial Reporting Manager
• Financial Project Manager
• Financial Assistant
• Financial Management Analyst
• Financial Planning Analyst
• Financial Representative
• Assistant Finance Manager
• Financial Management Specialist
• Financial Administrator
• Budget Analyst
• Staff Auditor
• Finance Clerk
• Corporate Financial Analyst
• Finance Coordinator
• Finance Associate
• Junior Financial Analyst
• Billing Manager
• Financial Operations Manager
• Finance Specialist
• Finance Executive
• Bank Teller
• Senior Finance Manager
• Purchasing Director

Business and Management

Your expertise is everything when it comes to business positions. Focus on your skills and tie them in with your accomplishments – just pick a cover letter example that suits your position.

• Business Intelligence
• Digital Director
• Market Research
• IT Business Analyst
• VP Business Development
• Construction General Manager
• Business System Analyst
• Practice Manager
• Business Systems Analyst
• Tableau Business Analyst
• Director of Business Development
• Safety Manager
• Asset Manager
• Entry Level Business Analyst
• Senior Business Analyst
• Category Manager
• Technical Manager
• Innovation Specialist
• Business Manager
• Shift Manager
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Strategy Consultant
• Relationship Manager
• Junior Business Analyst
• Investment Manager
• Fedex Operations Manager
• Market Analyst
• Operations Associate
• Business Development Analyst
• Banking Business Analyst
• Supply Chain Business Analyst
• Online Business Owner
• Business Operations Analyst
• Library Director
• Compliance Manager
• Agile Business Analyst
• Branch Manager
• Business Development Consultant
• Self Employed Business Owner
• Strategic Account Manager
• Environmental Manager
• Business Planning Manager
• Business Project Manager
• Hotel General Manager
• Product Analyst
• Financial Business Analyst
• Business Relationship Manager
• Business Development Executive
• Construction Business Owner
• Strategy Manager
• Revenue Manager
• Business Unit Manager
• Business Director
• Division Manager
• Solution Manager
• Deputy Manager
• Sales Operations Manager
• Innovation Manager
• Planning Manager
• Club Manager
• Commodity Manager
• Management Consultant
• Cleaning Business Owner
• Casino Manager
• Warehouse Operations Manager
• Business Operations Manager
• Rpa Business Analyst
• Revenue Cycle Manager
• Marketing Account Manager
• Proposal Manager
• Business Process Manager
• Branch Operations Manager
• Strategic Sourcing Manager
• Resource Manager
• Environmental Consultant
• Fitness General Manager
• Configuration Manager
• Demand Planning Manager
• Operations Analyst
• Business Intelligence Director
• Business Continuity Manager
• Venue Manager
• Mortgage Operations Manager
• Strategic Planning Manager
• Small Business Owner
• Servicenow Business Analyst
• Service Delivery Manager
• Stock Manager
• Escape Room
• Small Business Manager
• Alliance Manager
• Hotel Operations Manager
• Rooms Division Manager
• Administrative General Manager
• Floor Manager
• Claims Manager
• Library Manager
• Logistics Account Manager
• Center Manager
• Marketing Operations Manager
• Assistant Business Manager
• Sourcing Manager
• Healthcare Operations Manager
• Business Consultant
• Healthcare Business Analyst
• SAP Business Analyst
• Implementation Manager
• Business Owner

Cover letter salutation

Writing the proper cover letter salutation is about 50% of the struggle. Nothing seems appropriate. The time-proven, trusty cover letter salutations seem a bit cliché and outdated.

The secret to writing a suitable greeting is to be relevant. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I know who the hiring manager/recruiter is?
• Did someone recommend me the job?
• Have I communicated with the recruiter before?

If you can answer one out of these three questions with “yes” , then feel free to use the recruiter’s name in the salutation. And if you feel like it’s inappropriate to call the hiring manager by name, rest assured, it’s absolutely alright. It shows that you’ve done your research, and people love it when someone’s put in the effort.

Good cover letter greetings to use when you know who the hiring manager is, include:

• Dear [Last Name],
• Dear [First and Last Name],
• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms [Last Name],

With that being said, “Dear” is as professional as you get in the world of cover letter salutations. However, if you’re applying for a job position in a creative agency where competition is fierce, and you need a cover letter to stand out, but the overall vibe is far more relaxed, feel free to start your cover letter with “Hello”.

If you have no idea who’ll be reading your letter of motivation , you can use a generic greeting. They’re far less enticing, but they get the job done. Generic cover letter salutations include:

Dear Hiring Manager,

• Dear [Job Position],

Bad example

Good example, cover letter opening.

A cover letter opening paragraph has one purpose – hook the reader, so they read your letter all the way through. That’s why you should keep the first sentence fairly short and straight to the point.

Here’s an example of a good opening:

Summarize your biggest professional achievement in a single sentence. Show the impact you’ve had at your previous job. This makes it clear to the recruiter that you mean business.

Length-wise, the opening paragraph of your covering letter shouldn’t be longer than two sentences. If you’re into writing, the opening paragraph is your hook sentence. 😉

Cover letter body paragraphs

The body of the cover letter is the longest section. It consists of three to four paragraphs telling the story of your professional life.

Keep in mind that there’s a fine line between rephrasing what’s on your resume and writing a good cover letter . Remember this:

Your best bet is to thoroughly research the company you’re applying to. Check their website, social media, PR coverage, and even their Crunchbase profile to see if they’ve had recent funding rounds.

Try to identify possible problems they may be facing and direct your cover letter in the directions of how you and your skill set can help them. Speak through your actions and results.

Don’t just say you’re good at something – prove it.

Cover letter call to action

A call to action is a vital and strategic part of any cover letter. It’s important to phrase it in a way that shows your excitement for the position but isn’t too pushy on the hiring manager.

Put yourself in the reader’s shoes. They’ve read your letter this far. The recruiter knows that you’ve done the research. They can see you’re a great fit, so don’t leave them hanging – give them the next steps.

Here’s an example of a great cover letter call to action:

A rule of thumb to follow in the call to action is to make it all about the company and not yourself.

Cover letter closer

Now that you know how to craft a great call-to-action sentence, it’s time to talk about the closer.

To be exact, we’re talking about the complimentary close. As a cover letter requires a degree of formality, it’s best to keep the complementary close simple. Here’s a list of our favorites that you can use:

• Respectfully,

Followed by an empty line and your first and last name.

On another note, if you’re applying at a company where you know the hiring manager or the overall culture is informal, you can opt for a more relaxed complimentary close. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Warm regards
• Yours truly
• Have a wonderful day

Keep in mind that those should be saved for the right occasion, and we recommend going with a more professional closer . If you aren’t sure, nothing beats a “Thank you,”. 🙂

Creatives are among the most sought-after employees. They’re usually the people who come up with original ideas that give companies a competitive advantage. In the cover letter above, Jack has done a great job explaining his background in gender advocacy, social issues, and political science – all venues much needed in modern-day companies.

Furthermore, Jack has a detailed explanation of how he can help the company, focusing on solid examples and channels he considers to be his strengths. From social media to analytics, he’s done a great job of helping the hiring manager picture Jack as one of the team.

Finally, the call to action and closing paragraphs are spot on, giving the hiring manager a nudge to give him a call.

Career change cover letter example

My name is Nicholas and for the past 5 years, I’ve been the general manager for Coffi&Biscuits where I managed to increase the YoY revenue of the shop 10x in the past three years.

I was excited to see the Business Development Manager position for Bootstrap IO, as it is a career change that I’m looking forward to making.

Managing a team of 15 taught me a lot about budgeting, planning, and organizing the workload. I can help you with expanding your team in the next quarter and reach your goal of launching your new product across the United States.

I’d love to jump on a Zoom meeting with you to further discuss joining the team. I’m available at your disposal.

Nicholas Costa

Why this career change cover letter is good

Taking a closer look at Nicholas’ cover letter, you’ll see that he was concise, went straight to the point, and most importantly explained how his current skill will help the company grow.

Writing a career change cover letter is all about showing the hiring manager how your skills can help them overcome challenges the business is facing.

Nicholas has done a great job explaining his skills. Furthermore, he’s done the research and knows what the future plans of the company are.

His call to action section further drives the point that he’s convinced of his skills and that he can help the company.

You can use this cover letter when:

• You want a new job in a field unrelated to your current one.
• When you want to apply for an internal position in another department.

Entry-level cover letter example

I am applying for the position of Drug Research Specialist (Entry Level) that I came across at PANDA Corp. I believe that my academic experience matches your requirements.

During my studies, I have gained experience in the field of medicine and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, during my master’s program, I’ve completed my diploma in Pharmaceutical Research, which helped me in better understanding the processes and best practices in drug development.

Additionally, under the ImunoHelp program, I have undergone various professional and self-development training. Each training permanently added to my skill set.

Having spent the last seven years of my life outside the United States, my home country has made me multicultural. My vibrant experience traveling and studying at different institutions, in UAE, USA, Portugal, and France have undoubtedly contributed to my open-mindedness, creativity, and adaptability, as well as working in a diverse and multilingual team.

I’m excited to have the opportunity to discuss how my skills can help your company grow. I’m available for an interview at your convenience.

Anna Kendrick

Why this entry-level cover letter example is good

When you’re applying for an entry-level position, there’s a high chance that you’ll be competing with a lot of people that don’t have a lot of experience on their resume.

Most likely, you’re about to graduate, and you’re looking for your first job. Taking a look at Anna’s cover letter, you can immediately see that she’s focusing on her studies.

When you’re writing a cover letter for an entry-level position , focusing on your strengths is vital – after all, the hiring managers know that you won’t have years of experience behind your back. That’s why you have to show your strengths. Add what you’ve studied, any additional courses or training that you’ve been a part of, with a focus on what you’ve learned there.

General cover letter example

Dear Mr John,

I was pleased to see you're hiring for the barista position at Grey Raven Coffee Bar. As an experienced barista with 6 years of professional experience I’m confident that I would be a valuable asset to Grey Raven and the local community you serve.

I’m recently left my job at one of New York's biggest coffee bars, where I’ve honed my barista skills and even won a few competitions. While employed here, I have successfully managed to work in a bustling environment, serving more than 2,000 clients per day.

I’m confident that my excellent work ethic, unparalleled attention to detail, and knack for delicious coffee-based drinks will make me an immediate asset at Grey Raven, and allow me to contribute to the team’s success.

I look forward to discussing the barista position and my qualifications with you in more detail. I’m available to talk at your soonest convenience. I’ll be in touch next week to follow up, just to make sure you’ve received my application.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Cindy Parker

Why this general cover letter example is good

The general cover letter example is perfect if you’re an applicant that has some experience, or you just need a template to send out to a few jobs that you’ve applied for.

Copy the example above, change the name and accomplishments with yours and you’re ready to go. Just remember to personalize each cover letter to the job position you’re applying for.

Executive cover letter example

For the past 6 years, I've been successfully leading ACME Agency and increased YoY revenue by 150% every year for the past 4 years.

As the CEO of a creative agency, I think I have the skillset and vision needed to turn your agency into a market leader by partnering with top companies like Unilever, Google, and Apple.

I'm experienced in both company and franchise brand building. I build and lead high-performance teams that work both in online and offline campaigns.

Former employers will confirm, that I am a passionate leader who is hands-on when it comes to working smart and hard I am self-motivated and a highly dependable individual that is confident and culturally diverse.

I am a great communicator and I can convey information to anyone, regardless of where they are in the company hierarchy.

Whether monitoring performance, improving strategic plans, or managing the entire life-cycle of a project or product development, my references would confer that I exceed expectations by practicing the greatest level of expertise with professionalism whilst always being customer-centric.

Should you grant me an interview will be in a position to discuss in detail, how my skill set can be utilized to grow your business. I believe that your company is intent on reflecting positive growth and profitability and it would be my pleasure to actively contribute to the company’s future.

Kind Regards,

Nicholas Jasbin

Why this executive cover letter example is good

Nicholas goes above and beyond in describing his accomplishments and his soft skills in communication and management. He begins his cover letter directly with an accomplishment statement that will make him stand out from other applicants.

Further down, Nicholas collaborates on his experience working with large companies and building teams.

Intern cover letter example

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I am writing to apply for the internship position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board or Company Website]. As a motivated and aspiring [field of interest] professional, I am eager to gain practical experience and contribute to the success of your organization.

Throughout my academic journey in [relevant field of study], I have developed a strong foundation in [key skills or knowledge areas relevant to the internship]. I am excited to apply these skills in a real-world setting and further enhance my understanding of [specific area or industry]. Some highlights of my qualifications include:

[Relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate skills or knowledge]

[Extracurricular activities or volunteer work that showcase relevant experience or leadership]

[Technical skills or tools proficiency]

I am drawn to [Company Name] because of its reputation for [specific aspects of the company, such as innovation, community impact, or industry leadership]. I am particularly inspired by [specific projects, initiatives, or values of the company] and believe that my passion and dedication align well with your organization's goals.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to learn to the internship role. I have attached my resume for your review, and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and background make me an excellent fit for [Company Name]. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and learning from the talented professionals at [Company Name].

[Your Name]

Why is this a good cover letter:

College graduate cover letter example.

I am writing to express my interest in joining IBM as a [specific position]. As a recent graduate from [Your University] with a degree in [Your Major] and practical work experience, I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to IBM's innovative and forward-thinking environment.

During my time at [Your University], I gained a solid foundation in programming, data analysis, and software development. My coursework and projects have allowed me to develop proficiency in languages such as Python, Java, and SQL. I have also honed my skills in Agile methodologies, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products within tight deadlines.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have gained valuable experience through internships and part-time roles. As a [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], I worked on a team that developed a data-driven solution to optimize inventory management for a major retailer. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration, effective communication, and critical thinking when tackling complex challenges.

IBM's commitment to creating innovative solutions and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development aligns with my passion for technology and personal growth. I am confident that my academic background, work experience, and dedication to excellence make me a strong candidate for a role at IBM.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences can contribute to IBM's continued success and growth.

Middle management cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in the Middle Management position at Planet Fitness. With over [number of years] years of experience in the fitness industry and a proven track record in team leadership and operations management, I am confident in my ability to drive results and contribute positively to Planet Fitness's success.

As the [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], I led a team of [number] professionals, consistently surpassing performance targets and increasing customer satisfaction rates. My hands-on approach to team development and focus on continuous improvement enabled us to achieve a 20% increase in membership retention over two years.

My background in [relevant field, e.g., business administration] and passion for health and wellness have equipped me with the skills to efficiently manage budgets, streamline operations, and maintain a safe and welcoming environment for members and staff alike.

Planet Fitness's commitment to providing an inclusive, judgement-free atmosphere aligns with my values, and I am excited to contribute to the growth and development of both the team and the organization. I look forward to discussing how my experience and skills can benefit Planet Fitness in the Middle Management role.

Dear Graduate Admissions Committee,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the PhD program in Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. As a highly motivated individual with a passion for research and innovation, I am confident that my academic background and relevant experience make me an excellent candidate for this prestigious program.

I hold a Master's degree in [Your Major] from [Your University], where I graduated with honors. During my graduate studies, I conducted research on [specific research topic], leading to the publication of [number] peer-reviewed articles in reputable journals. This experience has fostered my ability to think critically, analyze complex problems, and communicate my findings effectively.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have gained practical experience through internships and research assistantships in leading engineering firms and labs. These experiences have allowed me to develop a strong foundation in [specific engineering skills, e.g., computational modeling, prototype development, etc.] and collaborate with diverse teams to drive innovation and solve real-world challenges.

UC Berkeley's renowned engineering program, with its focus on cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration, aligns with my research interests and career aspirations. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to work with esteemed faculty members and contribute to ongoing projects within the [specific research area] at Berkeley.

I am eager to join the UC Berkeley community and contribute to its tradition of excellence in research and education. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further.

A cover letter for a PhD position emphasizes the candidate's research accomplishments, potential, and alignment with the university's program. It highlights their eagerness to contribute to the academic community.

Gaps in employment cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in joining your esteemed Digital Marketing agency in the capacity of [specific position]. As a highly motivated and adaptable professional with diverse experience in marketing, I am confident that my skills and passion make me an excellent candidate for this role, despite the employment gaps in my resume.

During the time away from full-time employment, I have been actively engaged in freelance work and continued learning to keep up-to-date with the latest marketing trends and technologies. I have completed courses in SEO, content marketing, and social media management, which have allowed me to maintain and enhance my expertise in the field.

My prior experience includes working as a [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], where I managed multi-channel marketing campaigns, optimized web content for SEO, and collaborated with cross-functional teams to achieve company objectives. As a result, we experienced a 25% increase in organic search traffic and a 15% growth in online sales.

I have a proven track record of creating and executing effective digital marketing strategies, and I am well-versed in tools such as Google Analytics, AdWords, and various social media platforms. My ability to analyze data and drive informed decisions will be invaluable in driving results for your agency and its clients.

I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to your organization and build upon my career in digital marketing. I appreciate your consideration of my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further.

A cover letter addressing employment gaps focuses on the candidate's skill development and industry knowledge during the gap period. It highlights their relevant experience and accomplishments, while expressing their eagerness to contribute to the organization.

• Demonstrates the candidate's ability to drive results for the agency and its clients

Temporary-to-permanent employee cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in transitioning from a temporary to a permanent employee at Jacksonville High School. Over the course of my temporary assignment as a [Specific Position], I have had the privilege of contributing to the school's mission and growth, and I am excited about the prospect of continuing to do so in a long-term capacity.

Throughout my time at Jacksonville High School, I have been actively involved in various aspects of [Specific Position's Responsibilities], including [examples of tasks or initiatives, e.g., curriculum development, student mentorship, or extracurricular activities]. I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of these initiatives on the students, and I am committed to making an even greater contribution to their academic and personal growth.

My experience at Jacksonville High School has allowed me to develop strong relationships with faculty, staff, and students. I have honed my communication and collaboration skills, enabling me to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams to achieve common goals. My dedication to excellence and my passion for education make me an ideal candidate for a permanent role at the school.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked at Jacksonville High School on a temporary basis, and I am eager to continue contributing to the school's mission and success as a permanent team member. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to discussing my candidacy further.

A cover letter for a temporary-to-permanent position emphasizes the candidate's contributions during the temporary assignment and their commitment to the organization's mission. It demonstrates their eagerness to make a lasting impact in a permanent role.

Volunteer cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering at Soul Soup Kitchen in New York City. As a compassionate individual with a strong commitment to community service, I am eager to contribute my time and skills to help support the mission of providing nutritious meals to those in need.

I have experience volunteering in various roles and capacities, including [specific examples of previous volunteer work, e.g., organizing food drives, mentoring underprivileged youth, etc.]. These experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, teamwork, and adaptability when working within a dynamic and diverse community setting.

In addition to my background in volunteer work, I possess valuable skills that would be beneficial to Soul Soup Kitchen. As a [your profession or specific skill set, e.g., professional chef, nutritionist, or event coordinator], I am confident that my expertise can help enhance the quality of the meals and services provided to the individuals who rely on your organization.

I am excited about the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need and to support the vital work being done at Soul Soup Kitchen. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experiences can contribute to the ongoing success of your organization.

Thank you for considering my application.

A cover letter for a volunteer position showcases the candidate's compassion and commitment to community service. It highlights their relevant skills and experiences and conveys their enthusiasm for making a positive impact on those in need.

Unemployed person cover letter example

I am writing to express my strong interest in the [specific position] at [Company Name]. As an experienced professional with a diverse skill set and a passion for [Industry], I am confident that my background and dedication make me an excellent candidate for this role, despite my current unemployed status.

During my time away from full-time employment, I have been actively engaged in professional development and skill-building, ensuring that I remain up-to-date with industry trends and technologies. I have completed courses in [relevant skills or certifications], which have allowed me to enhance my expertise and maintain my competitiveness in the job market.

My prior experience includes working as a [Previous Position] at [Previous Company], where I [specific accomplishments and responsibilities, e.g., managed a team of X professionals, increased sales by X%, etc.]. This experience has allowed me to develop strong [relevant skills, e.g., leadership, project management, communication, etc.] that I am eager to apply to a new role at [Company Name].

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and knowledge to your organization and continue my career growth in the [Industry] field. I appreciate your consideration of my application and look forward to the chance to discuss my candidacy further.

A cover letter for an unemployed candidate addresses their current employment status while focusing on their skills, expertise, and industry knowledge. It emphasizes their relevant experience and eagerness to contribute to the organization.

Networking cover letter example

I recently had the pleasure of attending the UX/UI Design conference, where I learned about your creative agency and the exciting work you do in the field of user experience and user interface design. I was particularly impressed by [specific project or aspect discussed at the conference], and I am writing to express my interest in exploring potential opportunities to collaborate or contribute to your team.

As a passionate UX/UI designer with experience in [specific areas of expertise, e.g., user research, wireframing, prototyping, etc.], I have worked on various projects that have successfully enhanced user experiences and driven business results. My portfolio showcases a range of design solutions that prioritize usability, aesthetics, and functionality.

In addition to my technical skills, I possess strong communication and collaboration abilities, which enable me to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams and ensure that all stakeholders' perspectives are considered in the design process. My dedication to user-centered design and my passion for creating intuitive and engaging digital experiences align with your agency's mission and values.

I would be thrilled to learn more about your team, discuss my background, and explore any potential opportunities to work together. I have attached my resume and portfolio for your review and would welcome the opportunity to connect further.

Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you soon.

A networking cover letter establishes a connection through a shared event or interest and highlights the candidate's skills and experiences. It expresses their interest in exploring potential opportunities to collaborate or contribute to the organization.

Referral cover letter example

I recently had a conversation with [Referrer's Name], who mentioned that your company is seeking a talented financial analyst. As a highly skilled professional in the field of financial analysis, I am excited to express my interest in joining your team and contributing my expertise to [Company Name].

During my tenure as a Financial Analyst at [Previous Company], I played a pivotal role in analyzing financial data, forecasting trends, and developing strategic recommendations for business growth. My strong analytical and quantitative skills have enabled me to identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue generation, resulting in a [percentage] increase in profitability over the past year.

I am well-versed in various financial analysis tools and software, including [specific tools, e.g., Excel, SQL, or Tableau], which have allowed me to efficiently manage large datasets and generate actionable insights for decision-making. My ability to communicate complex financial information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences sets me apart as a valuable asset to any organization.

[Referrer's Name] spoke highly of the collaborative and innovative culture at [Company Name], and I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to your organization. I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to speaking with you soon.

A referral cover letter leverages a personal connection to establish credibility and highlight the candidate's expertise and accomplishments in the field. It expresses their enthusiasm for the company's culture and values.

Cold call cover letter example

I am writing to express my strong interest in a sales position at Amazon. As an accomplished sales professional with a proven track record of driving revenue growth and exceeding targets, I am confident that my skills and passion make me an excellent candidate for your team.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, identify new business opportunities, and close deals effectively. In my most recent role as a Sales Representative at [Previous Company], I was responsible for a [percentage] increase in sales over the course of two years, contributing significantly to the company's overall growth.

My success in sales can be attributed to my deep understanding of customer needs, excellent communication skills, and the ability to adapt my approach to different industries and market conditions. I am well-versed in various sales methodologies and CRM tools, ensuring that I can quickly integrate into your team and make an immediate impact on your bottom line.

I have long admired Amazon for its commitment to innovation and customer-centric approach, and I believe my experience and values align with your organization's mission. Although I am aware that there may not be an open position at this time, I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my skills and background can contribute to Amazon's continued success in the future.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review and look forward to the chance to discuss my candidacy further.

Job not yet posted cover letter example

I recently came across DevArchitects and was thoroughly impressed by your company's portfolio and innovative approach to software development. Although I understand that there may not be an open developer position at this time, I am eager to express my interest in exploring potential opportunities to contribute my skills and expertise to your team.

As a seasoned software developer with over [number of years] of experience in [programming languages, e.g., Java, Python, JavaScript, etc.], I have a proven track record of developing high-quality software solutions for a diverse range of clients and industries. Some highlights of my career include:

Successfully developing and deploying [specific project or application]

Leading a team of developers to complete [specific project or initiative]

Continuously staying updated on the latest industry trends and technologies

My strong analytical and problem-solving skills, coupled with my passion for creating innovative software, make me a valuable asset to any development team. I am confident that my expertise can contribute to the ongoing success and growth of DevArchitects.

I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss any potential opportunities to work together. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and helping DevArchitects continue to excel in the software development industry.

A cover letter for a job that is not yet posted proactively reaches out to a company to express interest in potential opportunities. It highlights the candidate's skills and expertise and demonstrates admiration for the company's work.

• Expresses admiration for the company's portfolio and innovative approach

Follow-up cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my recent application for the Business Analyst position at [Company Name]. I am eager to reiterate my strong interest in this role and my belief that my skills and experience make me an excellent fit for your team.

Since submitting my application, I have continued to research [Company Name] and have been particularly impressed by [specific project or initiative]. As a Business Analyst with experience in [relevant skills, e.g., data analysis, process improvement, project management, etc.], I am confident that my expertise can contribute to the ongoing success of projects like these at your company. Some key aspects of my background include:

[Specific accomplishment or responsibility from previous position]

Proficiency in [relevant tools or software, e.g., Excel, SQL, or Tableau]

Strong communication and collaboration abilities

I understand that you may be reviewing numerous applications for this position, but I wanted to take a moment to reiterate my enthusiasm for this opportunity and my strong belief that my skills and experiences align with [Company Name]'s values and goals.

Please find my resume attached for your reference, and do not hesitate to reach out if you require any additional information. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you soon.

A follow-up cover letter reiterates the candidate's interest in a position after submitting an initial application. It emphasizes their skills and experience, reaffirms their alignment with the company's values, and demonstrates continued enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Job transfer request cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in transferring to an Operations Manager position within our organization at a different location due to personal reasons for relocation. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at [Current Location] and have learned a great deal, but I believe a move to [New Location] would be beneficial for both my personal and professional growth.

In my current role as Operations Manager, I have successfully managed a team of [number of employees] and implemented process improvements that have led to increased efficiency and cost savings. Some of the key accomplishments during my tenure include:

[Specific accomplishment or responsibility from your current position]

Implementation of [specific project or initiative that led to improvements]

[Any awards or recognitions received within the company]

I am confident that my skills and experience would make me an invaluable asset to the team at [New Location]. I understand that transferring to a new location might involve some challenges, but I am committed to making a seamless transition and maintaining the same level of dedication and performance that I have demonstrated at [Current Location].

I have attached my resume for your review, and I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my request further. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to your response.

A job transfer request letter for relocation expresses the candidate's interest in transferring to a different location within the same organization. It highlights their accomplishments in their current role and demonstrates their commitment to maintaining the same level of performance at the new location.

Promotion or department transfer cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. As a dedicated Compliance Manager at [Company Name], I am writing to express my interest in a promotion or department transfer within our organization. I believe that my skills, experience, and dedication to our company make me an excellent candidate for a new challenge and an opportunity to contribute at an even higher level.

In my current role, I have successfully led a team of compliance professionals, ensuring that our company adheres to regulatory standards and maintains a strong reputation for integrity. Some key accomplishments during my tenure include:

Development and implementation of [specific compliance program or initiative]

I am confident that my expertise in compliance management, combined with my passion for [Company Name]'s mission, would make me a valuable asset in a new role within our organization. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss potential opportunities for promotion or department transfer further.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] in an even greater capacity.

A promotion or department transfer cover letter expresses the candidate's interest in taking on a new challenge within the same organization. It highlights their accomplishments and successes in their current role and demonstrates their commitment to the company's values and goals.

• Demonstrates a deep understanding of the company's unique approach and goals

Value proposition cover letter example

I hope this message finds you well. As an experienced and results-driven Business Developer, I am excited to apply for the opportunity to join Handy, a company that shares my passion for exceptional service and customer satisfaction. With a proven track record of generating new business and creating lasting partnerships, I am confident that I can contribute to the continued growth and success of your organization.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated an ability to identify opportunities, develop innovative strategies, and drive sales growth. My unique value proposition includes:

• Exceptional relationship-building abilities, fostering trust and collaboration with clients and partners

I am eager to bring my skills, experience, and dedication to excellence to Handy, and help drive the company's expansion and continued success. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how my unique value proposition aligns with your organization's goals and vision.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you soon.

A cover letter with a value proposition clearly communicates the unique benefits that the candidate brings to the company, setting them apart from other applicants. By showcasing their distinct skills, experiences, and accomplishments, the candidate can demonstrate their ability to create tangible results and make a positive impact on the organization.

Email cover letter examples

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Email Address]

[Today's Date]

[Recipient's Name]

[Company Address]

Subject: Application for Marketing Analyst Position - [Your Name]

I am writing to apply for the Marketing Analyst position at Danone, which I recently discovered on [Job Board or Company Website]. With a strong background in data analysis, market research, and a passion for the consumer goods industry, I am confident that my skills and experience make me a perfect fit for this role.

In my previous role as a Market Research Analyst at [Previous Company], I successfully managed multiple research projects, identified emerging market trends, and provided actionable insights to guide marketing strategies. Some key accomplishments include:

• [Any awards or recognitions received within the industry or previous company]

Please find my resume attached for your review. I am eager to contribute my expertise to Danone's marketing team and help drive the company's continued success in the consumer goods market. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how my skills and experiences align with Danone's values and goals.

An email cover letter with a resume is a concise message sent electronically to apply for a position. It highlights the candidate's skills and experience, demonstrates their interest in the role, and includes an attached resume for further review.

Email cover letter for a part-time job

Four Seasons Restaurant

Subject: Application for Part-Time Server Position - [Your Name]

I hope this message finds you well. I recently came across the part-time Server position at Four Seasons Restaurant and am excited to express my interest in joining your team. With my experience in providing exceptional customer service and passion for the hospitality industry, I am confident that I would be an excellent addition to your staff.

In my previous role as a Server at [Previous Company], I consistently received positive feedback from customers for my attentive service and friendly demeanor. Some key highlights from my experience include:

Please find my resume attached for your review. I am eager to contribute my skills and dedication to the Four Seasons Restaurant and help create memorable dining experiences for your guests. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

An email cover letter for a part-time job is a brief message sent electronically to apply for a position with reduced working hours. It emphasizes the candidate's relevant skills and experiences in the field, demonstrating their interest in the role, and includes an attached resume for further review.

Email cover letter for a summer job

Your Local Fisherman Store

Subject: Application for Summer Job - [Your Name]

I hope this message finds you well. As a student with a strong interest in fishing and the outdoors, I am excited to apply for a summer job at Your Local Fisherman store. I believe my passion for fishing, combined with my excellent customer service skills, make me an ideal candidate for this position.

While I have not yet worked in a retail setting, I have gained valuable customer service experience through volunteering at various local events, where I interacted with diverse groups of people and ensured their needs were met. Some key highlights from my experience include:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Please find my resume attached for your review. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm and dedication to Your Local Fisherman store and help create a welcoming and knowledgeable environment for fellow fishing enthusiasts. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and demonstrate how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

An email cover letter for a summer job is a concise message sent electronically to apply for a temporary position during the summer months. It highlights the candidate's relevant skills, experiences, and interests, demonstrating their enthusiasm for the role, and includes an attached resume for further review.

Cover Letter Examples FAQs

Should i address an employment gap in my cover letter.

If you think that addressing your employment gap is important, then definitely include a sentence about it. With that being said, employment gaps aren’t uncommon and most recruiters would love to know more about your unemployment gap as it can help them understand more about you.

Should I include information about my availability?

Of course! Cover letters are meant to help clear up any questions that your resume may not. Adding a sentence to the body segment of your motivation letter is a great way to do so.

Can I mention that I’m fine with relocating for the job?

Yes. Oftentimes, cover letters are the perfect place to mention that you’re okay with moving cities or even states if you get the job. Resumes generally only give you the opportunity to mention where you live, but not that you’re open to relocating.

Should I mention anything about the salary in the cover letter?

This is a bit of a double-edged sword. If the salary for the position is included in the job ad, and you’re okay with it, then yes, you can say that in the cover letter. Otherwise, don’t talk in the cover letter about the salary. Save it for the first or second interview instead.

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What is a CV and why it's better than resume

With bigger experience and knowledge a person will deal with more complicated tasks at work, earn more money than common office clerk, and aim for higher positions. Once you achieved success in organization and wish now to use your talents somewhere else, you're thinking of changing job. You contact your potential boss and he tells you to send your CV to him. After this simple request your head start exploding with questions. A CV? They don't need my resume? What does CV stand for and how to make it? CV is abbreviation if Curriculum Vitae, and simply speaking that's self-advertisement of employee. It contains more I information about academic studies, grants, researches, publications, awards, and it promotes your skills to your future boss. In debates of CV vs resume, the first paper is always more detailed, and can used by highly experienced person. It can win you position in famous companies and even help to find highly-paid job abroad. Most international organizations prefer to receive CVs to get acquainted with levels of potential workers. The better position, the higher competition for getting it. It's a huge responsibility, and no boss would like to hire a wrong person. Dreaming of work in CV Sciences to afford a luxury lifestyle? Get ready to create a strong CV to prove you're worth it.

How to write a CV to get high position in company

Describing all your achievements is not an easy task, especially if pressure of future position and responsibility is making you stressed. You are not first person who is in horror of doing something wrong. Think about your experience starting from childhood. What were you like at schools? Did you attend any competitions? Have you won diplomas? Yes, in CV every small academic achievement matter and play important role. Your aim is to show company that are a true shark in this sphere, your experience is rich and now you're ready to bring success to company. Numerous CV examples to be found on the Internet, they help you with structure and format. Don't be surprised to see eight pages of someone's CV, it's natural to describe everything more detailed than in resume. And if in resume you may not include any part of your working experience, CV should have it all. It will reflect your way to success and prosperity, showing potential boss that you are working hard to become better, to be even more educated and develop your skills constantly. Good CV template is never short, it contains your educational and working process in chronological order, starting with last place of work.

Why making CV is important for future career

It's obvious from information above that CV is completely another level of introducing yourself to employer. It's a detailed description of everything you have achieved in your life. If you plan to grow, to develop, to work with best companies in your country and abroad, resume is not an option for you anymore. Numerous of job applications are being sent to organizations with impeccable reputation, competition is very intense. Do you want to be among rejected (or not getting answer at all)? Or would you like to thrive and aim for prosperity?

What is resume help and how it can boost your career

With growing amount of specialists, it becomes harder to find a well-paid position. No matter how hard you were studying, how many degrees and achievements you have, for each person, the beginning of a new career starts the same: everyone needs a resume. The question is: how to make your experience and knowledge be notable and remarkable in the sea of competitors? The answer is simple: get the help of resume services! Whether you need to refresh your old one, add a couple of new lines and jobs or create a new CV from a scratch – the experts will be able to help you. It’s always better to give another person a possibility to evaluate your achievements from aside. Thus, writing a cover letter for a job would not be a nightmare. Moreover, you’ll get a unique and original writing that would be different from alike examples offered online. Such an approach would surely impress your potential boss and give him a chance to get to know you better before inviting for an interview. There’s no even need to have a long list of references: with a great resume help, you can be outstanding among all other candidates for the same position. As a result, you have a chance to get the job and ask for a decent salary (which might even exceed your expectations).

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How to Create a Killer Resume With ChatGPT in 6 Simple Steps

ChatGPT is a versatile, time-saving tool that has been helping businesses in numerous ways since its launch in 2022. So, it should come as no surprise that ChatGPT can also assist with one of the most widely deplored professional tasks – building a resume.

Whether you feel uncomfortable writing about your strengths and accolades or simply don’t have the time to write a tailored resume for each job you apply for, using ChatGPT can be a great way to jumpstart the writing process, or give your existing document a bit of a makeover.

If you’re interested in using AI to streamline your job search, we outline how the chatbot can be used to create a resume that stands out from the crowd. We also include prompt examples and screenshots from ChatGPT, to guide you along every step of the process.

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Create a Competitive Resume With ChatGPT in 6 Simple Steps

Writing or updating a resume with ChatGPT is simple, as long as you know what you’re doing. Follow the steps below to create a resume, tailored to the job you’re interested in.

• Gather your information
• Open ChatGPT and craft your first prompt
• Enter your personal experience
• Enter information about the job description
• Enter information about the hiring company
• Edit and refine your resume

1. Gather your information

Before you even open ChatGPT, we recommend having all of your important information at hand. This will prevent you from switching between tabs when crafting your prompt, and will also make it easier for you to refine your resume in later stages.

The type of information you prepare will depend on you and the position you are applying for. However, as a general rule of thumb, we recommend covering the following categories.

• Contact details – This will include your mobile number, professional email, and address if relevant
• Education – Write down your education history, including the names of the institutions you studied at, your majors or subjects, your grades, the dates of graduation, and any other relevant information.
• Work experience – If you have one, make sure you have a copy of your current resume to hand. If not, compile information from your previous jobs, including your responsibilities, and information about the companies.
• Certifications – If you have any certifications or qualifications that are relevant to your role, or make you seem like more of a credible candidate, gather this information and think about how these achievements can be leveraged to improve your hiring potential
• Skills – This is a good time to summarise your best hard and soft skills too. However, be as specific as possible and make sure you only write down skills that relate to your prospective role.

2. Open ChatGPT and craft your first prompt

Once all your information is at hand, open ChatGPT and create an account if you haven’t already. Then, craft an introductory prompt requesting ChatGPT to build you a resume. We’d also recommend asking the chatbot to avoid using overused or cliche terms in your opening prompt to prevent your resume from looking like a carbon copy.

If you’re stuck for inspiration, here’s an example prompt:

I am writing a resume and I need your help. You are going to act as a professional resume writer, and are going to avoid using cliche terms. Do you understand?

After you’ve entered this prompt, ChatGPT will ask you for your following experience.

3. Enter your personal experience

Now it’s time to make your resume personal. Use all the information you compiled in the first step, and feed it into your next prompts for ChatGPT. You have two options here. You can either paste your entire current resume into ChatGPT or highlight the most important bits in the prompt, to keep things succinct.

Here’s an example of a prompt you could create below. We chose to break the prompt into different chunks but feel free to format the input how you like.

I am going to give you my personal information so you can make sure the resume reflects my personal experience and qualifications. I am a [Insert Current Job Title), with a degree in [Insert Course] from [Insert Name of Institition], which I graduated from in [Insert graduation date] with a [Insert Your Final Grade]. Since graduating, I’ve worked as a [Insert Previous Position] for [Insert Name of Previous Company] between [Insert Dates]. My main responsibilities at GoodContent included [Insert Main Responsibilities]. In my current role in [Insert Name of Current Company], I [Insert Current Responsibilities]. I have a number of hard and soft skills including [List Skills]. I also have a certification in [Insert Certifications]. Write my resume.

4. Enter information about the job description

Unless you’re creating a multi-purpose resume that you’re planning to tailor to specific job descriptions down the line, this is a good time to add more context about the job you’re planning to apply for. You can do this by simply pasting the job description into the chatbot, as we did in the example prompt below.

I am applying for a job as a [Insert Job Title]. I am going to provide you with the job description I am going to apply for. Can you read this carefully? [Insert Full Job Description]

For best practice, we’d recommend including as much information in this step as possible. However, if some details in the job description don’t apply to you as much as others, you can choose to leave these out.

5. Enter information about the hiring company

To make sure your resume is as targeted as possible, you should enter more information about the company itself next.

We’d start by telling ChatGPT exactly what you’re going to do. Let it know you’re going to be providing it with more information about the company that’s hiring, and then enter basic information about the company, including its name and core function. You can also paste information from the ‘About Us’ page on the company’s website, to make your prompt as rich as possible. Use the example prompt below for inspiration.

Now I’m going to provide you with more information on the company that’s hiring, so you can make sure my resume is tailored to their pain points and hiring needs. The company name is [Insert Name of Company] and their central mission is as follows: [Insert More Informatio About the Company]. The website’s about you page is as follows: [Insert Company’s ‘About Us’ Page]

6. Edit and refine your resume

After completing these steps, ChatGPT will have created a rough resume for you. While it may look decent, now is a good time to give it a read over, and identify areas that could be improved upon.

• Edit the format – ChatGPT can only generate text outputs, so you’ll have to format the resume yourself. The way you format the document is up to you, but for scannability purposes, make sure all the key information is bullet-pointed.
• Use active tense – Ensure your resume uses the active tense as much as possible, especially when speaking about your current work experience. This will make you appear more confident, and will grab the attention of the reader.
• Check the content – ChatGPT does a good job of building a resume based on the content you provide. However, if you think the resume should place more emphasis on certain experiences or skills, don’t be afraid to craft new prompts to achieve this.
• Watch out for generic language – ChatGPT has a habit of creating generic-sounding responses. To make sure your resume has a human touch, comb through the copy and substitute cliche, or frilly terms with something less formulaic.
• Add contact details – Once you’re happy with the result, add the personal contact details you prepared in the first step.
• Choose a template – Paste the ChatGPT-created resume into a template of your choice. Make sure that this template is appropriate for the industry that you are applying within, and avoid models that are too stylized and complicated. If you don’t want to pay for a template, you can choose a free one with platforms like Canva and Indeed.

Consider Using a Dedicated AI Resume Builder

ChatGPT does an excellent job at creating resumes, especially if you’re armed with useful tips and tried-and-tested prompts. Also, a massive perk of the platform is that it’s completely free to use too, which is a huge boon if you’re looking to save money during the job search.

However, if you’re willing to invest in your professional future, AI-enabled resume builders let you create and edit resumes in even fewer steps, and offer far more useful features than ChatGPT. Most AI resume builders will ask you to input your qualifications and experience, and then take care of everything else, saving the hassle of entering different prompts.

Aside from generating and refining text, lots of AI resume builders format and design your document too, eliminating the need to switch between platforms. After researching the best options on the market, we decided that Zety Resume Builder is the best due to its impressive range of templates and intuitive “final summary” feature.

There are loads of great pieces of software to choose from, though. Compare the best platforms in our guide to the best free and paid resume builders .

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A data specialist shares the 2-page résumé that got him a $300,000 job at Google — and explains 3 details he got right on it.

• Ankit Virmani made a career switch from consulting to tech.
• After a full day of work at Deloitte, he would spend hours every night teaching himself how to code.
• The résumé that landed Virmani a job at Google is two pages long — a decision he defends today.

Ankit Virmani had spent five years in consulting when he began eyeing a shift to tech.

"I always thought in my heart that I wanted more technical depth. I wanted to build things rather than sell them too much," said Virmani, who first moved to the US from India to pursue a master's degree.

In the first half of 2020, he dove right in.

After wrapping up a day at his full-time job at Deloitte, Virmani would spend three to four hours practicing coding every night, and another two hours reading up about the industry. He also began spending time with people in the field, asking them about real-time scenarios and what challenges they face in their jobs.

"I didn't want answers from them. I wanted their thought process —how do they navigate through these complex challenges at scale," he told Business Insider.

It didn't pay off right away. He was rejected by Microsoft and Amazon at different stages of their application processes.

Six months after deciding to switch careers, he landed a role as a data and machine learning specialist at Google's Seattle office.

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Here's the résumé he used to apply for his job at Google, which pays more than $300,000 a year. BI has verified his employment and compensation.

Sacrificing the 'one-page only' résumé rule

Looking back on his résumé four years later, Virmani said he would make some formatting changes.

"This résumé is giving importance to everything equally, which is what I don't like," he said. "I would have a gradient of importance, like executive summary on top, achievements so far, and then I would go to professional experience, education, and technical skills."

But with more insight into what employers like Google appreciate, Virmani said he would keep several things the same — including the length of the document.

Sacrificing the "one-page only" rule to improve readability: Virmani broke the "one-page only" rule and prioritized having an uncluttered résumé. "It has very neatly structured sections and high-level themes," he said about using subheadings like "data architecture" and "cloud strategy." His manager at Google later told him that style helped them pick up on his responsibilities without having to decipher the lines below.

Highlighting team effort: Virmani said some people overly highlight individual contributions on their résumé: "It's never that way, at least in my experience — it's always teamwork." That's why he focused parts of his résumé on his teams' accomplishments. "In my experience, Google highly, highly appreciates honesty and humility. That's the culture of the company — we know that nothing great gets achieved by an individual," he said.

Saving some details for the interview: Virmani said he was careful not to over-explain his past projects so that he could build curiosity and have a good conversation during the interview: "If you put everything in the résumé, you'll run out of points to talk about in the interview."

Virmani is not alone in choosing to sacrifice "typical" résumé decisions. For Shola West, that came in the shape of breaking the "no résumé gap" idea.

West is part of a growing group of Gen Zs who are trying to destigmatize the résumé gap — a period of unemployment between jobs or between education and work.

West previously told BI she took a yearlong break at the start of her career to understand what she really wanted to pursue. She embraced her résumé gap and now works at an advertising agency and runs a career advice side hustle.

For Mariana Kobayashi, breaking from the résumé norms meant abandoning the written format altogether.

Kobayashi landed a role as an account executive at Google after she curated a video about why she should get the role.

She sent her video résumé, which took her 10 hours to create, to the hiring manager directly, Kobayashi previously told BI. A Google recruiter saw the video and reached out to her, and she eventually landed a role at the tech giant.

Do you work in finance or consulting, and have a story to share about your personal résumé journey? Email this reporter at [email protected] .

On February 28, Axel Springer, Business Insider's parent company, joined 31 other media groups and filed a $2.3 billion suit against Google in Dutch court, alleging losses suffered due to the company's advertising practices.

Watch: Lorraine Twohill, chief marketing officer at Google, says inclusive advertising is just good business

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White-sounding names get called back for jobs more than Black ones, a new study finds

Joe Hernandez

A sign seeking job applicants is seen in the window of a restaurant in Miami, Florida, on May 5, 2023. Joe Raedle/Getty Images hide caption

A sign seeking job applicants is seen in the window of a restaurant in Miami, Florida, on May 5, 2023.

Twenty years ago, two economists responded to a slew of help-wanted ads in Boston and Chicago newspapers using a set of fictitious names to test for racial bias in the job market.

The watershed study found that applicants with names suggesting they were white got 50% more callbacks from employers than those whose names indicated they were Black.

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Chicago recently took that premise and expanded on it, filing 83,000 fake job applications for 11,000 entry-level positions at a variety of Fortune 500 companies.

Their working paper , published this month and titled "A Discrimination Report Card," found that the typical employer called back the presumably white applicants around 9% more than Black ones. That number rose to roughly 24% for the worst offenders.

The research team initially conducted its experiment in 2021, but their new paper names the 97 companies they included in the study and assigns them grades representing their level of bias, thanks to a new methodology the researchers developed.

"Putting the names out there in the public domain is to move away from a lot of the performative allyship that you see with these companies, saying, 'Oh, we value inclusivity and diversity,'" said Pat Kline, a University of California, Berkeley economics professor who worked on the study. "We're trying to create kind of an objective ground truth here."

America Reckons With Racial Injustice

From jobs to homeownership, protests put spotlight on racial economic divide.

The names that researchers tested include some used in the 2004 study as well as others culled from a database of speeding tickets in North Carolina. A name was classified as "racially distinctive" if more than 90% of people with that name shared the same race.

Applicants with names such as Brad and Greg were up against Darnell and Lamar. Amanda and Kristen competed for jobs with Ebony and Latoya.

What the researchers found was that some firms called back Black applicants considerably less, while race played little to no factor in the hiring processes at other firms.

Dorianne St Fleur, a career coach and workplace consultant, said she wasn't surprised by the findings showing fewer callbacks for presumed Black applicants at some companies.

"I know the study focused on entry-level positions. Unfortunately it doesn't stop there. I've seen it throughout the organization all the way up into the C-suite," she said.

St Fleur, who primarily coaches women of color, said many of her clients have the right credentials and experience for certain jobs but aren't being hired.

"They are sending out dozens, hundreds of resumes and receiving nothing back," she said.

What the researchers found

Much of a company's bias in hiring could be explained by its industry, the study found. Auto dealers and retailers of car parts were the least likely to call back Black applicants, with Genuine Auto Parts (which distributes NAPA products) and the used car retailer AutoNation scoring the worst on the study's "discrimination report card."

"We are always evaluating our practices to ensure inclusivity and break down barriers, and we will continue to do so," Heather Ross, vice president of strategic communications at Genuine Parts Company, said in an email.

AutoNation did not reply to a request for comment.

The companies that performed best in the analysis included Charter/Spectrum, Dr. Pepper, Kroger and Avis-Budget.

Workplace Diversity Goes Far Past Hiring. How Leaders Can Support Employees Of Color

Several patterns emerged when the researchers looked at the companies that had the lowest "contact gap" between white and Black applicants

Federal contractors and more profitable companies called back applicants from the two racial groups at more similar rates. Firms with more centralized human resources departments and policies also exhibited less racial bias, which Kline says may indicate that a standardized hiring workflow involving multiple employees could help reduce discrimination.

When it came to the sex of applicants, most companies didn't discriminate when calling back job-seekers.

Still, some firms preferred one sex over another in screening applicants. Manufacturing companies called back people with male names at higher rates, and clothing stores showing a bias toward female applicants.

What can workplaces — and workers — do

Kline said the research team hoped the public would focus as much on companies doing a bad job as those doing a good one, since they have potentially found ways to remove or limit racial bias from the hiring process.

"Even if it's true, from these insights in psychology and behavioral economics, that individuals are inevitably going to carry biases along with them, it's not automatic that those individual biases will translate into organizational biases, on average," he said.

St Fleur said there are several strategies companies can use to cut down on bias in the hiring process, including training staff and involving multiple recruiters in callback decisions.

Companies should also collect data about which candidates make it through the hiring process and consider standardizing or anonymizing that process, she added.

St Fleur also said she often tells her job-seeking clients that it's not their fault that they aren't getting called back for open positions they believe they're qualified for.

"The fact that you're not getting callbacks does not mean you suck, you're not a good worker, you don't deserve this thing," she said. "It's just the nature of the systemic forces at play, and this is what we have to deal with."

Still, she said job candidates facing bias in the hiring process can lean on their network for new opportunities, prioritize inclusive companies when applying for work and even consider switching industries or locations.

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Don't use these 3 types of phrases in your resume, says ex-Google recruiter

Recruiters are busy people. They've got "typically about 20 to 30 positions open, truckloads of resumes they have to wade through and folks they have to meet and interview," says Simon Taylor , former Disney recruiter and author of the leadership book " Build Smart ."

It stands to reason if a resume has any red flags whatsoever, they'll move onto the next one immediately. When you're writing yours, you'll want to make sure it meets their criteria and doesn't give them a reason to pass on your candidacy.

Here are three phrases former Google recruiter and current CEO of salary data company FairComp , Nolan Church, recommends avoiding.

'Coordinated meetings with X'

To begin with, under each job title, avoid writing a list of tasks that you took at the job. "I don't give a s--- about your tasks," Church says.

The day-to-day duties of your job like emailing with your boss or creating your quarterly goals do not give a concrete sense of what you accomplished and how you helped the business move forward. "The one I see all the time that just blows my mind is 'coordinated meetings with X,'" Church says.

"There's literally no business impact for coordinating meetings," he says. Think, instead, of what you did that truly benefitted the business, like booking new clients or exceeding sales goals, and use specific numbers to illustrate it.

A 'word salad' of keywords

Career experts recommend using keywords from the job description to prove you meet the role's criteria. But many jobseekers go too far.

People tend to " have this word salad based off of what the [job description] says," says Church. If a marketing job calls for implementing strategic marketing, refining the company's messaging platforms and engaging stakeholders, for example, a jobseeker might wrongly include every one of those terms in one sentence.

Create a rule for yourself when you're writing the bullets under your job titles: "You're not allowed to use more than one keyword in a sentence," says Church.

Sentences that are more than '25 words'

In a similar vein, avoid run-on sentences.

"All of these sentences should be less than 25 words maximum," says Church. "Probably even shorter than that. Because the goal of a resume is for me to very quickly understand what you've done."

Harkening back to recruiters' time crunch, they'll likely have just "three-to-five seconds" to dedicate to your resume, Taylor previously told Make It . If the sentences describing your accomplishments are too long, they won't necessarily take the time to read them. By writing concise phrases, you're helping recruiters get to the punchline of your impact right away, instead of having to look for it among many words.

"Time is the enemy in life and is the enemy in business," says Church. "The faster that we can move, the faster that we can solve problems."

Want to land your dream job in 2024?  Take  CNBC's new online course How to Ace Your Job Interview  to learn what hiring managers are really looking for, body language techniques, what to say and not to say, and the best way to talk about pay.

Plus, sign up for   CNBC Make It's newsletter  to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.

From work devices to résumés: Resources to help you navigate a layoff

From tesla to amazon, more layoffs could be on the horizon. here’s how to prepare for your next interview..

Nearly four months into 2024, companies are still cutting costs. Tesla, Amazon and Apple are among the latest big companies to cut jobs. The near future could bring more.

Many employers are still downsizing because of overly optimistic projections, consumers’ changing habits, technological advances such as generative artificial intelligence , and macroeconomic pressures. Whether your job has been cut or you worry you could see a layoff soon, there are several things you can do to get a head start on your next steps. Job experts suggest that it’s never a bad idea to be prepared.

“These layoffs are being driven by a return of pre-pandemic employment levels,” said Brett House, a professor in the economics division at Columbia Business School.

When it comes to layoffs, most are hitting the tech and financial sectors, House said, with major employers such as Microsoft, Salesforce, Google and Meta slashing thousands of jobs within the past year. Tesla joined the group this week, announcing plans to cut more than 10 percent of its global workforce. Earlier this month, Amazon said it’s laying off hundreds of employees who work on its physical stores technology and sales and marketing teams in its cloud computing division. And for the first time since the pandemic, Apple is making its first big cut, laying off more than 600 workers in California.

The announcement comes after a slew of layoffs at the beginning of the year. Companies including Google, Amazon, Walmart, Morgan Stanley, Disney, Wall Street giant BlackRock and San Francisco-based gaming company Unity reduced head count within the first several weeks of the year.

Overall, the labor market is strong, and hiring has continued despite the cuts, House said. Layoffs will probably continue as companies adjust, but barring a major event, such as a recession, House expects the big cuts to die down later this year.

For workers facing a potential layoff or for those who already have been cut, the stress of job hunting can be overwhelming. Help Desk can assist you in navigating the process, such as by informing you of what to do before returning your work devices, helping you prepare for an AI interview, and offering best practices for getting noticed by your next employer.

We’ve put together a collection of resources you can click through below. And let us know what questions you still have. Drop me a line at [email protected] .

• Job recruiters share the top résumé tips to help you stand out in automated screenings and with recruiters.
• You may be tempted to use the ‘white fonting’ hack to bypass AI and other tech filters. Learn what job experts advise.
• Your next job interview could be judged by AI. Here’s how to prepare .
• Check out these 11 tips to plan your health care after job loss.
• Read our layoff survival guide to get step-by-step advice on what to do before, during and after you’re let go.
• Before you leave your job, take some steps to secure your data before returning your work devices.
• Take a look at these apps and tools to help you land your next gig.
• Can’t get a call back from a job? You might be making one of these common mistakes.
• Learn how to control the narrative on what potential future employers can discover about you.
• If you’ve used your company-issued phone for personal as well as professional purposes, leaving your phone number behind may cause some headaches. Here’s how to navigate .

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