should i use the same cover letter for multiple jobs

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Cover Letter Example for Applying for Multiple Jobs

Should You Apply for Multiple Jobs at a Company?

Tips for writing a cover letter for two jobs at a company, sample cover letter applying for two jobs, more cover letter examples.

When you're excited about a company, you may want to apply to several different positions there. But what kind of impression does that leave with potential employers? There are times when applying to multiple positions at the same company could make a job seeker seem desperate—or worse, unqualified—for any of the positions. 

That's not always the case, however. 

Find out more about when applying for multiple jobs at a company is a good idea. Also, see a cover letter example for applying for multiple jobs within the same company. 

Applying for different positions in a company is effective if you are truly qualified for the positions you're applying to. If you are a strong candidate for all the positions, it makes sense to apply to them.

Applying to multiple positions at the same company can be a good option for people at the start of their careers. That is, if a company has multiple entry-level positions available, it's possible that you're equally qualified for all of them. 

Another factor you must consider is the size of the company. If it is a large company, then there's a good chance you won't get the same hiring manager reviewing each application. Therefore, there is no harm in applying for multiple jobs. At a small company, however, it's more likely that the same hiring manager will see your application for multiple jobs.

If you're applying for multiple positions at a company, try to limit yourself and be realistic. Applying to two or three positions you qualify for is acceptable, but submitting your  resume  for every single position listed can be a turnoff to hiring managers, and a poor use of your own time. 

Not sure what to do? Ask for advice: Reach out to a mentor, a trusted colleague, or other career connections for help thinking through the best option. 

Some people recommend applying to one job at a time and, if you don't hear back and some time has passed, applying for another position later. However, there's a chance that the jobs may be gone by the time you're ready to apply again. 

Anytime you're considering applying for multiple roles at the same company, you'll have to weigh the potential risks and benefits. 

When applying to two or more jobs at a company, you will typically submit separate resumes and cover letters for each job. Every resume and cover letter should be tailored to fit the specific job listing. For each job application,include  keywords  related to the specific job.

However, if you are allowed to only submit one job application to the company, or the two jobs are in the same department and are similar, you might consider writing one cover letter for two or more jobs.

When doing this, you need to keep a few things in mind:

Address the Right Person

Since you are submitting your cover letter to two jobs, two separate people might be looking at the cover letter. In your salutation, be sure to address all of the people who will be reading your cover letter (or use a general phrase such as  “To Whom It May Concern” ). This way, you will not appear to be emphasizing your interest in one job over the other.

Express Your Qualifications for Both Jobs

Be sure to explain why you are qualified for both jobs. Consider writing one paragraph mentioning your skills and experiences for one job, and another paragraph for the other job. 

Another option (if the two jobs are related) is to list your skills and experience that apply to both jobs.

Express Enthusiasm for the Company

Clearly state your interest in the company, so that the hiring managers understand your interest. Perhaps include a paragraph that states why you think you are a good fit for the company generally. Include keywords from the  company website  in this paragraph. 

Also emphasize how you can benefit the company—explain that you hope to add value to the company in either of these jobs.

The following is a cover letter example applying for two positions at the same company. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Cover Letter Example Applying for Two Jobs (Text Version)

Zach Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 zach.applicant@email.com

July 19, 2021

Manfred Lee Chief Technology Officer WebTech Solutions 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee:

Your IT department has advertised two job openings for which my experience directly qualifies me. My nuclear power experience would translate well into the chemical industry. Both industries endure extreme regulatory pressure for environmental impact. I am highly knowledgeable and familiar with this kind of regulatory environment, and I recognize how vital IT is for the record-keeping that is necessary for dealing with that kind of scrutiny.

My IT experience gives me a unique ability to apply technology, in all its forms, to business processes. Some of the business process knowledge includes accounting, finance, facilities, inventory control, budgeting, vendor management, and various operational processes.

I have experience with merger/acquisition events, high growth challenges, technology replacement projects, and IT process improvement. I have delivered large technology projects on schedule/on budget, and in alignment with the business strategy. Companies I have worked for include Dakil Energy, Hoppy Rent a Car, Digit Equipment, and Miners Gas and Electric.

I would appreciate an opportunity to talk with you or someone in your organization to see where my skill set would be of the greatest benefit to your company. I know I could be a great asset to your department.

Signature  (hard copy letter)

Zach Applicant 

 Review more  cover letter templates  and examples of  cover letters for a variety of different types of jobs , types of job seekers, and types of job applications.

Can You Use The Same Cover Letter For Every Job? (Career Advice)

You’ve heard it before: the cover letter is the most important part of your job application. But what does that mean? If a generic cover letter will get you noticed, should you use it for every job? And what if you’re applying to multiple jobs at once? We’ll answer these questions and more with our handy guide to writing a winning cover letter.

Table of Contents

Is It Okay To Use The Same Cover Letter Multiple Times?

It depends on the job. If you’re applying to a company that you aren’t familiar with and aren’t sure they will look at your cover letter, then using a generic cover letter is acceptable. 

If you are applying for a job where you have some confidence that the company will read your application, then sharing information about yourself (and possibly even sending in another application) may be better than using a generic cover letter.

Using the same cover letter for all applications can be a good way to ensure that every application gets reviewed by hiring managers at each company. However, it can also come across as lazy or disrespectful if done too often without any changes made between applications.

While cover letters may not always be required, they are still a valuable tool for job seekers to showcase their skills and stand out from the competition. Learn more about the importance of cover letters with our career advice on cover letter necessity .

Will A Generic Cover Letter Get You Noticed?

No, a generic cover letter will not get your foot in the door.

To make sure you’re getting the job you want, it’s important to customize your cover letter and resume for each employer and job posting. If they don’t have many details about the position or company, ask questions! This will help figure out if they need someone with specific skills.

If they are looking for someone with a certain skill set then make sure you highlight those skills so that it shows how qualified you are for the role.

Is It Okay To Write A Single Cover Letter And Tweak It For Each Job?

The cover letter is the most important part of your application. The recruiter will read it, and if they like what they see, they’ll call you for an interview. If not, then they probably won’t even bother reading your resume. 

When writing a cover letter to submit with your resume, keep in mind that this piece is designed to be personalized and tailored specifically for each job opening you apply to.

It’s okay to write one general cover letter and tweak it for each job posting that interests you just make sure there aren’t any typos or grammatical errors! 

Your goal is to get noticed by recruiters so that they’ll give additional attention to your application materials during their initial screening process before passing them off to hiring managers who may decide whether or not someone gets hired based on how well-written their documents are.

Do Some Employers Check If Your Cover Letter Is Generic?

Some employers do check your cover letter, and even if they don’t, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re applying for multiple jobs at once, it might not be wise to use the same wording in every single one. After all, you don’t want to risk having your application disqualified because of a discrepancy in your resume or cover letter!

If you’re applying for a job online and uploading your documents through an automated system (like Indeed), there’s no way of knowing whether or not the company will double-check the content of your cover letter. So just play it safe and make sure that each version is unique—it’s better than getting denied because you made one tiny mistake!

Applying for multiple jobs can be time-consuming, but using the same cover letter for every job may not be the best strategy. Our career advice on using the same cover letter for every job offers tips on how to tailor your cover letter to each job application and increase your chances of landing an interview.

What Do I Need In My Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume. It’s an opportunity to sell yourself as the best candidate for the position, and it should be personalized for each job you apply to. A good cover letter should:

Introduce yourself by name, address, and contact information

Briefly share why you are applying for this specific position at this company (i.e., what makes you interested in working there)

Summarize your relevant skills and experience that make you a great fit for the position (don’t simply repeat what is already in your résumé)

Explain why working at this company would be beneficial to both of them

Should You Address Your Cover Letter To Someone Specific?

When it comes to addressing your cover letter, there are a few things you should avoid. First and foremost, never address the cover letter directly to a specific person. ‘Dear Mr. or Ms.’ is fine; just don’t mention names unless the company specifically asks for them in their job listing and/or you have met someone at the said company who explicitly asked you to do so.

Secondly, don’t address your cover letter directly to a specific company or position (i.e., “Dear [insert person’s name here]” when referring back to an ad). In other words: don’t start sentences with “I am writing this” 

You’re not writing anything; instead, use phrases like “I am interested in exploring opportunities within [insert name here],” which sounds less demanding than “I want…”

How Long Should My Cover Letter Be?

It’s a common question, and the answer depends on what you want to achieve. If you’re applying for an entry-level job, three to four paragraphs are plenty. 

Your resume already tells the hiring manager that you are qualified for the position; in this case, your cover letter should be short and sweet. You can also choose to include a brief mention of why you would like to work at this company or how they fit into your overall career goals.

If on the other hand, you are applying for a more senior position (like executive or department head) where experience matters more than education level then including additional information about yourself could be helpful (e.g., “I am currently working as an IT director at Acme Co., which gives me plenty of experience managing both internal departments as well as vendors from outside companies like Microsoft Corporation.”).

While cover letters may not always be required, it’s important to check the job application requirements to ensure you’re submitting all necessary documents. Learn more about cover letter requirements and job applications with our career advice on cover letter requirements .

What Are The Main Sections Of A Cover Letter?

Introduction: The introduction should include your name, how you heard about the position, and why you’re qualified for it. It should also include a summary of your career history, education, and any other relevant information that supports your candidacy.

Body: The body of a cover letter shouldn’t be just one long list of reasons why you’re perfect for the job; instead, it should focus on addressing each point listed in the job description—not only as far as experience goes, but also skills and qualities that are important to this particular role.

Closing: Your closing paragraph needs to summarize all of your strongest points while also reminding them why they’d be lucky to have someone like yourself join their team.

Signature/Contact Information: Include contact information such as name and phone number at the end of every cover letter so that hiring managers can easily reach out with questions or requests for interviews if necessary!

What Do I Put In My First Paragraph?

The first paragraph of your cover letter should be a quick introduction to who you are and why you’re applying for the position. It can also serve as an opportunity to demonstrate that you’ve done your research regarding the company and its needs.

Here’s what a stellar first paragraph would look like: “I am writing about the [position] posted by [company name]. I am excited by your company’s mission, and feel that my background makes me an ideal candidate for this role.”

Let’s break down what it says:

Your full name is here. If it’s not appropriate for you to include your full name, just include something more generic like “Kathryn,” or even simply “Kathryn.” 

Don’t use “Ms.” unless asked this is not 1950! Just be sure that whatever title goes in brackets matches how people address their letters at all times; if someone always writes Mr., don’t write Mr./Ms./Mrs./Miss/etc.. instead!

Company name here if there are multiple jobs open within one organization (such as at nonprofit companies), list both locations in parenthesis after their names so they aren’t confused with other companies 

Otherwise, just put whichever one(s) apply most specifically here so potential employers know where they might want to send mailers/emails when trying to get responses back from prospective employees like yourself ahead of time before making any final decisions about where best fits the best fit within each respective organization structure 

Overall better than others do too much less often too little money left over after paying rent each month might need getting paid overtime wages working extra hours unexpectedly during busy season sales period starts tomorrow 5 am sharp finish line arrives later next week afternoon 11 pm

Cover letter expectations have changed over time, but they still hold value in the job search process. Discover the benefits of cover letters and how to use them effectively with our career advice on cover letter relevance .

What Do I Put In My Second Paragraph? Or the Middle Paragraph? Or Body Paragraph?

The second paragraph is the perfect place to demonstrate that you have the skills and abilities required for the job. If there is any specific experience or training that they mention in the job description, make sure to highlight it here by explaining how it applies to this particular role.

Including a reference to your motivation for applying for this position demonstrates that you’re serious about getting hired. This can be something as simple as “I am excited about working at Company X” or “I believe my skillset would be an excellent fit in Company X”.

What Do I Put In My Third Paragraph? Or Ending Paragraph?

Once you’ve hit the 3rd paragraph, do not make the mistake of thinking that it’s time to wrap things up. You want to leave the employer with a sense of what comes next: are you going to follow up? Are there any questions you have for them? How can they contact you? These are all important details that must be included in your cover letter’s conclusion.

Are cover letters still important in today’s job market? Our career advice on cover letter relevance offers insights on the continued importance of cover letters and how they can help job seekers stand out in a competitive job market.

Now you’re ready to write an effective cover letter. It should be short, simple, and tailored to the job you are applying for. You can use a template or start with our sample below. You might want to check out our article on how to write a good resume as well!

Further Reading

If you want to learn more about cover letters and how to make them effective, check out these helpful resources:

Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job Application from FlexJobs offers tips on tailoring your cover letter to each job application to increase your chances of landing an interview.

10 Cover Letter Mistakes That Hurt Your Job Applications from Glassdoor provides insights into common cover letter mistakes and how to avoid them.

What Not to Put in a Cover Letter from Indeed offers advice on what to avoid including in your cover letter to ensure it stays professional and effective.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document sent alongside your resume when applying for a job. It provides additional information on your skills, experience, and qualifications that are relevant to the position you are applying for.

Are cover letters still important?

Yes, cover letters are still an important part of the job application process. They provide a chance for job seekers to showcase their skills and experience and explain why they are the best fit for the position.

What should I include in my cover letter?

Your cover letter should include a greeting, an introduction, information on why you are interested in the job, details on how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate, and a closing statement.

How should I format my cover letter?

Your cover letter should be formatted like a professional business letter, with a header containing your contact information, a greeting, and a signature. Use a standard font and size and make sure your letter is easy to read.

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

While it may be tempting to use the same cover letter for multiple job applications, it’s important to tailor your cover letter to each job you apply for. This will help you stand out from other applicants and show that you are a good fit for the specific position you are applying for.

Costantine Edward is a digital marketing expert, freelance writer, and entrepreneur who helps people attain financial freedom. I’ve been working in marketing since I was 18 years old and have managed to build a successful career doing what I love.

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4 Tips for Applying for Multiple Jobs at the Same Company

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When you get excited about a company during a job search, you may find yourself wanting to apply for more than one opening. But determining whether to apply for multiple jobs at the same company can be tricky.

“The best course of action is to apply for one job at a time,” says Diane Farrell, director of career services at University of North Georgia.

The risk of applying for several positions with a single company? “You’re going to look like you don’t know what you want to do,” she says.

However, job coaches say applying for a couple of roles can be acceptable if you’re thoughtful about it. For each position, you'll want to meet the qualifications and take the necessary time to make a compelling case for yourself.

Here’s what else to note if you’re considering multiple jobs at the same company.

1. Focus on your qualifications

“Don’t limit yourself to one position if you’re qualified for multiple,” says Amy Yandell, a North Carolina-based career specialist with coaching firm Ama La Vida. At the same time, she recommends being selective. “Don’t just throw your resume at any job.”

When deciding which jobs to apply for at a single company, Yandell suggests taking inventory of your goals, skills, work experience and any special value you’d bring to a company.

Then narrow down your options by focusing on each job’s qualifications. Note that you don’t need to meet 100% of the qualifications to be a match for a job. Farrell suggests aiming for about 80%.

» MORE: How to ask for feedback after a job rejection

2. Get to know the roles

If you qualify for multiple jobs at the same company, your next move could be setting up informational interviews with a recruiter or someone else at the company, according to Yandell.

Recruiters are looking for candidates who are enthusiastic about the company they represent, so they would likely be happy to hear from you, she says. Or you can look for people who work in the departments with open roles. To find these employees, check for bios on the company website or search in a networking website like LinkedIn.

In an informational interview, which is often conducted over the phone , you can ask questions about the company and the open jobs. This discussion is also a chance to humanize the job search experience, Yandell says. “It can lead to really fruitful conversations where someone inside the company is telling you where you’d be a good fit.”

» MORE: Video interview tips to help you land the call

3. Tailor your application materials

Don’t use the same cover letter for multiple jobs at the same company (or even multiple jobs at different companies). Instead, tailor your cover letter, as well as your resume, to each role you apply for.

If you did informational interviews about the roles, you could use what you learned to craft letters that demonstrate how your experience and skills are suited for each position, Yandell says.

» MORE: Should you call after applying for a job?

4. Follow up with the hiring team

If you decide to submit applications for multiple jobs at the same company, follow up with the human resources department or recruiter, Farrell says. That gives you a chance to tell them you intentionally applied for multiple roles and briefly explain why you did.

“It won’t be hard to explain,” if the jobs are similar, Farrell says. “But if they are fairly different roles, you can talk about your different backgrounds.”

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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 Generic Cover Letter for Multiple Purposes

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How to Sell Yourself in a 60 Second Interview

How to write a letter to reject an interview, how to write a sample letter accepting an interview opportunity.

• How to Present Yourself on a Job Application
• How to Write a Cover Letter Without a Job in Mind

Writing a generic cover letter can be an efficient and effective way to quickly apply for multiple jobs without having to create every application or resume package from scratch. The trick to doing this effectively is to write a generic cover letter that doesn’t sound blase, and that can be appropriate for a variety of purposes.

Writing a Solid Cover Letter

A persuasive cover letter contains a number of key elements that both catch the hiring manager's eye and establish you as a capable professional in your field. Even if you're crafting a boiler plate generic template, you can use this approach by employing the following openers:

Enthusiasm: Get a good start right out of the gate with the language you use to convey interest in the position. For example:

• I was very excited to learn that you're looking for a...
• I'd be delighted with the opportunity to join your dynamic team as...
• It would be a professional pleasure to be considered for...

Company kudos: While you don't want to come across as cloying, demonstrate your respect for the company you're applying with.

• As a well-respected industry leader, it would be a privilege to join your team.
• I understand your organization is known for its dynamic approach to teamwork - it's that type of professional work environment I'm looking to become part of.
• My objective is to join a respected company, known for its professionalism, focus on customer service and delivery of quality products.

Somewhat vague job description: To be useful as a cover letter for multiple job purposes, a generic cover letter should allude to the type of work you're seeking without being too specific.

• Seeking a challenging role in communications.
• Looking for to join a dynamic marketing team.
• Looking for the chance to flex my high-level customer service skills.

Focus on Your Key Skills

While a job-specific cover letter would focus on your skills as they apply to the job description you're referencing, a generic cover letter should provide a broad overview of your abilities and achievements. This might include:

• Summary of experience: I have more than 20 years' experience in marketing, sales and communications, with a focus on healthcare industry promotions. 
• Professional career highlights: I have been the top-earning sales rep in my region for the past three years, and was twice recognized with the ABC Career Sales Award.  
• P ersonal skills: I am a strong communicator , and have the ability to get along with a diverse variety of customers, clients and colleagues.
• Unique skill sets: I speak fluent Spanish, French and German, and I am well-versed in working with a global customer base.
• What you're looking for: I want an opportunity to lead a dynamic marketing team in achieving ambitious goals while simultaneously delivering high quality customer service.

Highlight Personality Traits

Spotlight your personal and professional traits in your generic application letter that make you a good overall employee. For example:

• I'm detail-oriented, have exceptional time management skills, and consistently meet deadlines.
• I enjoy working as part of a team, and I believe that collaborative work efforts create the best end results.
• I have a unique management approach that hs served me well, which includes pairing.
• The management approach that has served me well, which includes pairing the right people with the right projects and inviting input from all departments in crafting a strategic vision.
• I have a good sense of humor, a personable nature, and appreciate the opportunity to work with other creative individuals in a fast-paced work environment.

It's also wise to includ e a summary of programs or equipment you're familiar with.

For example: Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Workfront and OneNote.

Cast a Wide Net

If you're applying for jobs across a wide geographic range and want to use the same cover letter for multiple job s, your generic cover letter should indicate as much so employers aren't concerned about the current address on your resume. For example:

• While I currently reside in Chicago, I am interested in expanding my career horizons and am happy to relocate for the right opportunity.

If you're looking for an opportunity move to a specific location, make it clear.

• While I have called New York home for the past 10 years, my spouse is relocating to Los Angels for a new role and I am subsequently seeking new opportunity in Southern California myself.

Reference Outside Sources

You can make a generic application letter more personal by including links to outside sources that will give potential employers more detail about your professional background. This might include a link to an online portfolio or resume, a personal website or a professional networking site. Use caution in linking to personal social media pages. If you include them, make sure they are free or embarrassing, polarizing or controversial information that could paint you in a bad light - even by association with your friend's posts.

Customize Generic Cover Letters

If you're looking for work across a variety of fields, consider creating different versions of your generic application letter that can be used for multiple purposes. This allows you to use the same cover letter for different jobs and focus in on different key areas without investing too much addition time. For example, if you're a marketing professional who would also be interested in sales, customer service, communications, social media, branding or a related field, create individual generic versions, with each focusing on its own particular area.

Consider Best Practices

While it's true that an all-purpose generic cover letter allows you to apply for more jobs at a faster pace, there's still no escaping the fact that the letter is not specifically tailored to the job being sought. Here's why:

• You won't be addressing the specific qualifications outlined in a job description. Just as you are mass-submitting your resume, the company may very well be mass-sorting applications, and if it's a computerized process, your cover letter may get discarded if it doesn't contain specific key words or phrases from the posted job description.
• You won't get the opportunity to speak to how you fit into a specific company, nor demonstrate your knowledge of the organization, which can also put you at a disadvantage. Being able to say, " I have always wanted the opportunity to be part of the 100-year legacy of Waterworks in providing high-quality plumbing services to the greater Nashville area " looks better than, " I'm interested in a plumbing-related occupation ."  

In short, using the same cover letter for different jobs is better than not using a cover letter at all, but it also doesn't allow you to position yourself as someone who is pinpoint focused on and serious about a specific opportunity. Hiring managers will appreciate it if you take the time to prepare correspondence specifically tailored just for their job posting. Consider the benefits of a hybrid approach - creating a generic application letter that you can tweak and tailor to the specific roles you're applying for.

• Fast Company: 5 Methods To Make Your Cover Letter Irresistible To Hiring Managers
• Entrepreneur: 6 of the Most Captivating Cover Letter Openers -- and Why They Work
• Business Insider: The Three Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid if you Want to Get an Interview
• Robert Half: How to Write a Cover Letter
• Format your letter using basic rules for formatting business correspondence. Use one-inch margins and divide your letter into several paragraphs. Virginia Tech Division of Student Affairs suggests using a clear, commonplace font such as Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman for easier readability.
• Avoid discussing personal information unless it specifically relates to your career. While you may be proud of your softball league trophy or your hobby tying fishing flies, don’t include this kind of information in a cover letter. It won’t help you get the job and may distract the employer from reading about your accomplishments.

Lisa McQuerrey has been an award-winning writer and author for more than 25 years. She specializes in business, finance, workplace/career and education. Publications she’s written for include Southwest Exchange and InBusiness Las Vegas.

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Stop Sending the Same Cover Letter—Here’s how to Personalize to Make an Impression

Published: Aug 25, 2019 By Kevin Dickinson

An excellent cover letter performs two tasks: It explains why you’re a valuable candidate and how your skills fit a specific position. Sending the same cover letter with each application won’t meet these goals, and since hiring managers receive about a hundred applications per position, they quickly discard the generic ones .

Let’s be honest, though. Writing a new cover letter from scratch for every job application is a time-consuming task. Want to personalize your cover letter to make an impression while simultaneously saving your schedule ? Here’s how.

Begin with a template

Start your cover letter template by developing its structure. Insert placeholders for information that needs to change with each application, and write out sentences that can be safely reused, such as contact information and a strong conclusion (more on those below).

We recommend all placeholders be bracketed and highlighted—for example, “I believe my experience with [job skill 1], [job skill 2], and [job skill 3] makes me a promising candidate for the [title] position.” Using brackets and highlights makes the placeholders stand out, ensuring you won’t send a letter with one unfilled.

Finally, save your template in a secure location, and never write directly on the file. Copy-paste it in a separate folder for each new cover letter.

The salutation and closer

The top of your template should include your contact information: name, address, phone number, and email.

Next comes the salutation. It’s best to avoid the cliché “To Whom It May Concern.” The wording may be one-size-fits-all, but it comes across as dismissive. Instead, locate the hiring manager’s name online, and include it, “Dear [Mr. or Ms. Hiring Manager]:”. If their name isn’t readily available, try calling or substituting with a “Dear [department]:” or “Dear Madam or Sir:”.

For the complimentary close, a simple “sincerely” will suffice. If you’re sending a hard copy, be sure to pen your signature.  

An eye-catching introduction

The first paragraph should capture the hiring manager’s attention. To do that, it needs to speak to the position you’re applying for. That means writing an original introduction for each cover letter.

A strong introduction will specify the position, explain your interest, and describe why you’d be a good fit. To begin aligning yourself with the company, utilize a tone that fits its culture —fun, caring, purpose-driven, results-oriented, etc.

Go beyond your resume

Your resume showcased desirable qualifications ; now, your cover letter should illustrate how your work and interpersonal skills will exceed the company’s expectations.

One way is to tell a story about how your skills netted a positive outcome. Another is to describe quantifiable results your efforts brought to a former employer. Another is to mention accolades you received.

How much of the body written from scratch will vary per cover letter. Chances are, many of the positions you apply for will have overlapping qualifications. This means you can use material from previous cover letters you’ve written. Be careful to revise such material accordingly. Pay attention to tone, word choice, and transitions, and read your cover letter aloud to assess flow and check for mistakes .

If you want to highlight a skill or accomplishment not previously mentioned in a cover letter, pen it from scratch. Save your post cover letters as resources for future applications.

Finish strong

Your conclusion should summarize why you’re a good fit and include a call to action. Your call to action should prompt the next step—for example, “I hope to discuss the contributions I can make to [company] with you.” And don’t forget to thank the hiring manager for their time.

Conclusions are straightforward, so you can write one for your template and adjust details as necessary.

A personal missive

With these steps, you can quickly and efficiently craft a cover letter for each company you apply to.

A final word of advice: Your cover letter should reflect that you would make a good fit for the company, its culture, and its mission. But don’t sacrifice your identity to sell yourself as someone you aren’t. To properly personalize a cover letter, you need to let your personality shine through.

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How to Write a Cover Letter: A Comprehensive Guide with Examples (2024)

Crafting a compelling cover letter is the first step towards landing an interview. It’s usually the first impression an employer gets before even seeing your resume, and it will help to set the tone and establish your personality before getting into your qualifications and suitability for the position.

Whether you're applying for a job, internship, or generally submitting your resume for consideration, understanding how to write a cover letter can significantly enhance your chances of success.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a formal document accompanying your resume that introduces yourself to potential employers, highlighting your qualifications, experiences, and interest in a specific job or internship. It offers you the opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the role in a more personalized manner than a resume alone.

Cover Letter Format

The format of a cover letter typically follows a standard business letter structure. It includes your contact information, the date, the recipient's contact details, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. Ensure that your cover letter is concise, well-organized, and visually appealing, using a professional font and maintaining consistent formatting throughout.

As your cover letter will often be sent as an email, check this guide on how to write an email for some general tips on subject lines, email greetings, structuring the main content, and signing off.

Cover Letter for a Job

When applying for a job, a cover letter for your resume is often expected, and it serves as your initial introduction to potential employers. It should be customized for each position, showcasing how your skills and experiences fit the job requirements. A well-crafted cover letter can distinguish you from other applicants and increase your chances of securing an interview, especially if you can show that you’re genuinely aligned with the company’s goals.

Cover Letter for an Internship

For internship applications, a cover letter is equally essential. It allows you to convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity, relevant skills, and willingness to learn. Even if you have limited professional experience, your cover letter can highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and relevant coursework that demonstrate your potential value to the organization.

Writing a Cover Letter

Let’s get into how to write a cover letter, step by step:

Step 1: How to Address a Cover Letter

When addressing your cover letter, it's essential to find out the name and title of the hiring manager or recruiter whenever possible. Addressing the letter to a specific individual adds a personal touch and demonstrates your initiative. A quick note on how to address a cover letter without a name. If you're unable to identify the recipient, you can use a general greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."

Step 2: What to Include in a Cover Letter

Writing a compelling cover letter requires careful attention to detail and a strategic approach. Begin by thoroughly researching the company and the position to tailor your letter accordingly. Highlight your most relevant experiences and accomplishments, using specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications. Keep your language professional, yet engaging, and avoid using generic templates or clichés. Instead, strive to make a memorable impression that sets you apart from other candidates by showing you understand what the company is about.

Structure-wise, a well-written cover letter should include the following elements:

Introduction : Start by stating the position you're applying for and how you learned about it. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and briefly introduce yourself.

Body Paragraphs : Use one or two paragraphs to highlight your relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your qualifications and fit for the role. Tailor your content to align with the job description and company's needs.

Closing Paragraph : Summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your willingness to discuss further in an interview.

Closing : End your cover letter with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and contact information.

By using this kind of cover letter template, you can keep a clear and structured approach whilst also easily adjusting your content each time to customize it for each specific contact.

Before you send

Remember maintain professionalism throughout and always proofread your cover letter before you send it off. Check this quick list of cover letter dos and don’ts so you can ensure you’ve done everything you can and haven’t made any glaring errors along the way.

Note for students: While it may be reasonable to apply for internships with your university email, it probably won’t come across as particularly professional for proper job applications. Contacting an employer from a free email account with a funny name you made when you were an adolescent also won’t be particularly impressive. You may want to use a service like Inbox.com and create a business email account that shows you’re a serious professional.

Cover letter examples

Here are some short cover letter samples that you can use as templates for your own letter. Note that although the content should be adapted both to you and to the company you’re applying to, a similar structure applies in all cases.

1. Marketing Manager Cover Letter:

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With over five years of experience in marketing strategy development, campaign management, and brand positioning, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive results for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I led cross-functional teams to develop and execute innovative marketing campaigns that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My ability to analyze market trends, identify customer insights, and leverage data-driven strategies has consistently delivered impactful results and exceeded organizational objectives.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing, social media management, and content development to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its continued success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

2. Software Engineer Cover Letter:

I am writing to apply for the Software Engineer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and three years of hands-on experience in software development and coding, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and develop innovative solutions for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I played a key role in designing and implementing scalable software solutions that optimized workflow efficiency and enhanced user experience. My proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, and JavaScript, coupled with my strong problem-solving skills, has enabled me to deliver high-quality software solutions that meet and exceed client expectations.

I am impressed by [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my technical skills and passion for innovation to support [Company Name]'s goals of [mention company goals or objectives].

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my background and expertise align with the needs of [Company Name] and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to schedule a discussion.

3. Graphic Designer Cover Letter:

I am thrilled to apply for the Graphic Designer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a strong background in visual communication, brand identity development, and multimedia design, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my creativity and expertise to your team and contribute to [Company Name]'s success.

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I collaborated with cross-functional teams to create visually compelling designs that effectively communicated brand messages and engaged target audiences. My proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with my attention to detail and passion for design, has allowed me to deliver innovative solutions that align with client objectives and exceed expectations.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my design skills and artistic vision to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its creative endeavors. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

What is a cover letter for a job?

A cover letter for a job is a formal document submitted alongside a resume during the application process. It introduces the applicant to the potential employer and highlights their qualifications, experiences, and interest in the specific job position.

What is a cover letter for a resume?

A cover letter for a resume is a document that accompanies a resume when applying for a job. While the resume provides a summary of the applicant's skills and experiences, the cover letter offers additional context and insight into their suitability for the position.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce the applicant to the potential employer, showcase their qualifications and experiences, and express their interest in the job position. It allows applicants to personalize their application and demonstrate their enthusiasm and suitability for the role.

What does a cover letter look like?

A cover letter typically follows a formal business letter format, including the sender's and recipient's contact information, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. It should be well-organized, concise, and visually appealing, with a professional tone and consistent formatting.

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be concise and to the point, typically no longer than one page. It should provide enough information to highlight the applicant's qualifications and interest in the position without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details.

What should be in a cover letter?

A cover letter should include the sender's and recipient's contact information, a formal salutation, an introduction stating the position being applied for and how the applicant learned about it, body paragraphs highlighting relevant qualifications and experiences, and a closing expressing gratitude and interest in further discussion.

How to Start a Cover Letter

To start your cover letter effectively, consider using a strong opening sentence or attention-grabbing statement that immediately captures the reader's interest. You can mention a mutual connection, reference a recent company accomplishment, or highlight a specific aspect of the job that excites you.

How to End a Cover Letter

Ending your cover letter on a high note is crucial to leave a lasting impression. In the closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the position and express your gratitude for the opportunity to apply. Convey confidence in your ability to contribute to the company's success. Finally, use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name.

Updated: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

Published: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

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Should You Combine Your Cover Letter and Resume into One Document?

The internet has impacted virtually every area of life, including the job search process. Gone are the days when a job seeker would simply hand an employer a cover letter and resume in paper form. Today, more companies than ever accept digital copies of those job search documents.

In fact, many companies and employers now only accept emailed digital cover letters and resumes so they can make use of applicant tracking systems (ATS). Unfortunately, there’s been little effort to standardize submission processes, and that can make it a little confusing for the average job seeker.

For example, how should you submit your emailed resume and cover letter? Should you send them separately or combine them into one document? In this post, we’ll examine both options and offer the advice you need to make the best decision.

What’s the difference between a cover letter and resume?

Before you decide whether to combine your cover letter and resume into one document, it is helpful to make sure that you fully understand each of these important tools. The fact is that each of these documents has its own role to play in the job search process, and they have some major differences:

Each of these documents serves a distinct purpose in the job search process. Resumes are designed to provide an employer with an easy way to quickly assess your qualifications. The main purpose of a cover letter is to help the employer understand your motivations, goals, and personality. Both are important documents, but they are not interchangeable.

Your cover letter should be a targeted document that focuses on your qualifications for a specific job role. It should contain information about why you are the best candidate for the position and what you hope to achieve for the employer if you are hired. Your resume is more of a marketing tool that highlights your skills, relevant work experience , and educational qualifications in an easily digested summarized format.

Structure and format

These two documents also have dramatically different structures and formats . Your resume will be divided into specific sections for easier consumption and will include bullet point lists of relevant skills and achievements. Cover letters look more like any other written communication, conveying your message in full sentences and paragraphs.

Cover letter and resume: to combine or not to combine?

Let’s get right to the main question here: should you combine your cover letter and resume into one document? As a general rule, you should try to avoid it wherever possible. Since resumes and cover letters serve two very different roles in the job search process, they should be treated as separate documents. The only time you should even consider combining these two documents is when the company has instructed you to do so.

Review the instructions

Whenever possible, it’s a good idea to get the submission guidelines for the position straight from the source. That means asking the company’s hiring manager how your resume and cover letter should be sent. If there are clear instructions, it’s important to follow them to the letter to maximize your chances of receiving the right type of attention. On those rare occasions when a company wants a combined document, the job posting will usually include that instruction.

Why you should not combine these two documents

In most instances, however, you will discover that the instructions are vague. Perhaps the only instruction is that your resume must be emailed. If that’s the case, then you should always choose to leave these two documents as separate files. There are several very good reasons to do so:

If you include these two tools in one document, applicant tracking systems may reject it. That can happen if the ATS mistakes your cover letter for a resume and assesses it based on its rules for resume approval.

Hiring managers often want to go directly to your resume to review your qualifications. If your cover letter is part of that document, it could be a distraction that frustrates your reader.

Your cover letter and resume serve different purposes. Keeping them separate helps to ensure that each document receives the attention it deserves.

What if employers request that your cover letter and resume be combined?

As we noted above, there may be times when a specific employer requests that a resume and cover letter be sent as one document. Obviously, that request should be honored if you want to be considered for an interview. The important thing then is to ensure that you combine them properly. The following tips can help:

Decide which document you want the employer to see first

Since the cover letter serves as your introduction, there is a case to be made for putting it in the front of the resume. If you want to make sure that the ATS scores your resume properly, however, you may want to put the resume at the beginning of the document. That can also help hiring managers quickly access your qualifications.

Create a new document

Make sure that you create an entirely new document for your combined file. That will enable you to keep them separate for other companies and submissions. Then copy and paste your resume and cover letter into this new document. Be sure to save the file with an appropriate file name. For example: JohnSmithResumeCoverLetter.docx or JohnSmithResumeCoverLetter.pdf.

Use proper formatting

When you paste each document into your combined file, make sure that you retain the original formatting. Also, be sure to include a page break at the end of the first document so that the next document begins on a fresh page.

Submit the combined file

Once you have your new combined file, submit it to the company. If the online job posting includes submission instructions, follow them to the letter. Otherwise, simply send it to the appropriate email address.

How to email your cover letter and resume

When emailing your cover letter and resume, either include the cover letter as an attachment or copy and paste its text into the email message. Don’t do both. 

It is generally recommended that you submit both the resume and cover letter as file attachments rather than having any part of them in the body of your email message. What you can include in the email text is confirmation that you have attached the resume and cover letter files.

Of course, you also need to decide whether you want to submit a Word document or a PDF file. Once again, review the job board instructions to see what the company is requesting. If there is no specific option listed, then the best thing to do is to submit each document in a Word file. 

Sample cover letter and resume template

Below, you will find a resume and cover letter template that you can use to ensure that your job search documents contain the information that employers want to see. You can use these templates to guide you as you create your own cover letter and resume:

Resume template

[Your first and last name]

[Your Phone number]

[Your Email address]

Professional Summary

[No more than three sentences highlighting your qualifications, experience, and achievements.]

Core Competencies

[Bullet point list of your relevant skills. Use multiple columns to list 12-15 top skills ]

Employment History

[Company name], [city], [state] | [Employment dates]

[Job title]

Job responsibility and achievement

[Repeat employment history for additional jobs, in reverse chronological order]

[Name of school], [city], [state]

[Degree], [major]

[Date you graduated] It should be noted that you don’t have to include education dates if you graduated more than one year ago. 

Certifications/Licenses

[Name of certification or license, organization providing it, and relevant dates]

Awards and Achievements

[Award, honor, achievement]

Cover letter template

[Your city and state]

[Recipient's first and last name]

[Company name]

[Company address]

Dear [Recipient's name],

My name is [your name] and I am interested in discussing the open [position name] position at your company. I have [length of experience] experience as a [your profession] and am confident that I can provide a great deal of value for your company if hired.

I have recently been employed at [relevant employer name], where I was responsible for [cite job duties using keywords that match the skills needed in the open position]. Prior to that, I [provide examples of job duties that show your qualifications to fill the company’s open job]. I would love to have the opportunity to use these skills as part of your team.

I have included my resume with this letter so that you can evaluate my qualifications and experience at your leisure. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to having the opportunity to discuss the position with you in greater detail.

Respectfully,

[Your name]

You should choose to send your cover letter and resume as separate documents, unless the company has instructed you to combine them into a single file. More importantly, make sure that you get those critical job search tools into the right hands so that you can increase your chances of landing an interview!

Want to know whether your resume has what it takes to capture a hiring manager’s interest? Get a free resume review from our team of experts today!

Recommended Reading:

How to Tailor Your Resume to Different Positions (Examples)

How long should a resume be in 2023?

How to Get Your Resume Past the ATS Scans

Ken Chase, Freelance Writer

During Ken's two decades as a freelance writer, he has covered everything from banking and fintech to business management and the entertainment industry. His true passion, however, has always been focused on helping others achieve their career goals with timely job search and interview advice or the occasional resume consultation. When he's not working, Ken can usually be found adventuring with family and friends or playing fetch with his demanding German Shepherd. Read more resume advice from Ken on  ZipJob’s blog .

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Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2024?

Published: April 03, 2024

Writing a cover letter can be daunting.

I’ll never forget my college career coach, who made writing a cover letter look easy. Even with her tips, I’ve always found it incredibly difficult to talk about myself and hype up my accomplishments.

While it acts as a letter of introduction, I’ve wondered if a cover letter is necessary in 2024. To find out, I spoke with two recruiters and gained insights on how to write the best cover letter for any job application.

How important is a cover letter?

Is a cover letter necessary, when to skip a cover letter, when to include a cover letter, tips for writing a cover letter, what if the cover letter is optional.

Cover letters are short letters of introduction that you include with job applications.

Typically, they are your chance to go into deeper details about your accomplishments that you might not have highlighted or had room to mention on your resume.

Tiffany Hall, a professional resume writer and founder of Resume911 , says cover letters are an important part of the job application process.

Hall says, “Cover letters can be very important. It’s supposed to sell why you, of all applicants, should get the job. The issue is that applicants use them to regurgitate what’s on their resume, and that’s not what it’s for. It should speak to what isn’t easily explained with your resume.”

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• Standard Cover Letter Template
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
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For example, if your resume says you’re skilled at building web pages, your cover letter is a great place to name-drop companies that you’ve worked for to create their websites.

Matthew Muehleisen, a corporate recruiter , thinks a cover letter is also a great place to show you’ve done your homework and researched a company.

Muehleisen says, “It can be what sets you apart from other candidates and applicants and is a good opportunity to show that you’ve done research on the position and company to further showcase your interest in the role.”

Knowing the importance of a cover letter still begs the question: Is a cover letter necessary in 2024?

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While a cover letter can help demonstrate your knowledge of the company you’re applying to and highlight more of your achievements, both Hall and Muehleisen agree that a cover letter isn’t entirely necessary.

Muehleisen says, “Unless it’s a requirement of the application, I wouldn’t say it’s necessary to include a cover letter. There are some roles (usually in content creation and marketing) that will ask for a cover letter as a form of a writing sample. In these instances, make sure your letter is polished and focused.”

If Hall had her way, she would eliminate the cover letter entirely, focus more on the resume, and ask for a link to an applicant’s LinkedIn profile.

According to Hall, “Most cover letters either repeat the resume or they speak to why the applicant isn’t a good fit. Neither is the purpose of a cover letter.”

Nevertheless, 74% of hiring managers still prefer applications to include a cover letter. So, it is definitely worth considering including one — even if the application says it’s optional.

If you’re looking for a new role, writing a cover letter can be time-consuming — especially if you take the time to personalize every letter you send to a hiring manager.

Although a cover letter does serve a legitimate purpose, and 83% of hiring managers read it, there are a few situations where you shouldn’t include a cover letter. Let’s take a look at those scenarios.

If You Only Have a Template of a Cover Letter

I get it. Writing an effective cover letter takes a significant amount of time.

But consider not sending one if you only have time to plug your information into a cover letter template without personalizing it before hitting submit on an application.

Don’t get me wrong. A cover letter template is a great starting point to write your cover letter. Templates often remind you to include pertinent information like the hiring manager’s title, name, and your contact information.

However, if you don’t take the time to edit the body of the cover letter and personalize it with research and your relevant experience, you risk sending the same letter as another candidate.

And considering that 48% of hiring managers spend anywhere from 30 seconds to two full minutes reading each cover letter, the chances are high that your hiring manager can spot a form letter a mile away.

Don’t send it if you don’t have the time to personalize a cover letter.

If Your Cover Letter Is Full of Critique

A cover letter is meant to explain why you’re the best candidate for the open position. However, a cover letter is not a place for you to share your ideas of how the company can improve.

Sure, every company likely has areas of improvement, and the job you’re applying for might be the role that gets a say in that, but a list of improvements might read as a critique.

You don’t want to potentially offend a hiring manager before you even get an interview. A bad cover letter can hurt a strong candidate, according to 33% of hiring managers .

Before you submit your cover letter, read through it several times to make sure it’s not a critique. If it does sound like a critique, throw it out.

If It’s Not Required

There are other instances where you shouldn’t send a cover letter. For example, if the application’s instructions specifically state that you do not need to submit a cover letter for consideration for the job.

In fact, sending a cover letter anyway can signal to the hiring manager that you don’t follow instructions. Not following instructions is also a great way to land your application in the trash bin.

The bottom line is this: If the application specifically states not to send a cover letter, don’t send it.

Of hiring managers, 74% prefer to see job applications with a cover letter apart from the resume. Knowing this, if you have the time to include a cover letter with your job application, don’t skip it.

Here are three instances when you should send a cover letter with your application.

Send a cover letter if you’re very interested in the role.

Think of your cover letter as your time to shine. Use it as a place to highlight your experiences and the qualifications that make you a great fit for the position.

Hall says, “If you can speak to why you’re a good candidate without copying your resume in paragraph form, include a cover letter.”

In other words, don’t use bullet points in your cover letter to describe your previous employment history.

Instead, talk about what you learned on the job and how your skills will help you excel in the role you’re applying for.

Send a cover letter when there’s a gap in your resume or you’re transitioning industries.

If you’re looking to transition to another industry, you should definitely include a cover letter with your application.

Speaking from personal experience, if I had only submitted a resume to my school district when I applied to be a Spanish teacher, the hiring manager would have just seen my experience in Public Health and would not have known about my skills and success in tutoring students in Spanish.

Muehleisen puts it this way, “If you’re looking to transition to a new industry or if there is a position and company you’re really excited about pursuing as an opportunity, these are the best instances to include a cover letter so that you can possibly give yourself an advantage.”

A cover letter can also help explain any gaps in your resume — especially if the gap in your employment history is beneficial to the role you’re applying for.

For example, maybe you volunteered in South America, and the role you’re applying for is for a position in Global Operations.

It never hurts to include positive, pertinent information in your cover letter.

Send a cover letter when it’s required.

The most obvious time to include a cover letter with your application is when it is required. Just like not including a cover letter when it’s not required, it shows you can follow directions.

Include a cover letter when the application asks you to submit one, which shows you can follow directions.

Plus, if the application asks for a cover letter, you can bet the hiring manager will look for it. If no cover letter is included, well, you’re sabotaging your chances of getting an interview.

Only 13% of hiring managers will consider giving a candidate an interview if they don’t attach a required cover letter to an application.

Writing a cover letter is not as painful as it sounds. There are great templates you can use as a starting point for your cover letter.

The trick with a template, though, is to make sure you always personalize the letter to your own experiences and qualifications.

Here are five expert tips to write a winning cover letter.

1. Tailor your cover letter to the job description.

When writing a cover letter, especially if you use a cover letter template, you should tailor the letter to match the job description and meet the requirements of the application.

For example, if the application asks you to attach a short cover letter, keep it brief. Your best bet is one to two short paragraphs detailing why you’re a great fit for the position.

You’ll also want to reference keywords from the job description in your cover letter. Many recruiters use applicant tracking systems that scan application packets for the best fit.

Often, hiring managers review the applications that match the keywords first.

Now, that doesn’t mean to stuff your cover letter with keywords. Instead, use them in a natural way as you discuss your qualifications.

2. Be personable with your greeting.

You might have seen the advice telling you to use “To Whom It May Concern” instead of the hiring manager’s name. This is good advice, but only if you do not know the hiring manager.

Before resorting to a generic greeting to start your cover letter, take the time to look on the company’s website and LinkedIn to find out who makes hiring decisions.

If you have contacts in your network who are familiar with the company, ask them. Taking the time to research the hiring manager and the company shows you care about the details — a quality many hiring managers look for in a candidate!

If you’re still unsure after researching the company, consider using “Dear Sir or Madam” as your greeting.

3. Be yourself.

While a cover letter is a formal introduction of yourself to a potential employer, it doesn’t need to be lacking in personality. Hall suggests sprinkling your personality in your cover letter to spark connections with the hiring manager.

Hall says, “Be your best professional self. I’m a foodie and will include references to food on my LinkedIn, and I’ve done it in a cover letter. I’ve had managers reference them, and we had a chuckle. I am also very clear about aligning myself with companies whose mission and goals I respect and can contribute to. I make sure to speak to that in the cover letter.”

Take Hall’s advice. Showcasing your vibrant personality in your cover letter can help break the ice in your interview!

4. Proofread your cover letter.

Once you’ve written your cover letter and before you hit “send,” double-check that it is free from spelling and grammar errors and that the company you referenced is the company you are applying to.

Muehleisen says skipping proofreading your cover letter is a big mistake — and it could cost you the job!

Muehleisen says, “Make sure that you are proofreading prior to sending. If the cover letter feels like it is a simple cut/paste or if the job title and company name are incorrect, it may do more harm than good. So, be sure that what you’re sending is pertinent.”

5. Be cautious of AI.

AI tools, like ChatGPT or Claude, are great for helping draft content. You might be tempted to ask generative AI to write your cover letter for you. However, both Hall and Muehleisen say to proceed with caution when it comes to AI.

Hall says, “AI is coming along in amazing ways, so it may come as a surprise that my best tip didn’t include AI. I tell my clients when they’re stuck to look to their peers. You can search people by job title on LinkedIn. See how they describe themselves and pull from there. Or, hire a resume writer or career strategist to help you.”

Muehleisen agrees with her. He says, “I would hesitate to use a tool or service for a cover letter as the point should be to show your authenticity. If you are going to use AI for assistance, make sure to put your own words in as well.”

However, when you write your cover letter, whether using a template or generative AI, personalizing it is key to standing out from the competition.

If the job description says a cover letter is optional, should you send one, or can you get by without it?

That can be tricky, considering 72% of recruiters still expect a cover, even if it’s optional.

According to Muehleisen, sending a cover letter is not a bad idea. He says, “I’ve never heard of a cover letter hurting an applicant’s chances; just make sure the one you’re including is specific to the job description and posting.”

Check out these cover letter examples for more inspiration.

Experiment With Your Cover Letters

Writing a cover letter is a breeze once you get the hang of it. With today’s challenging job market, sending a cover letter with your application can make a difference in whether you get called for an interview.

I can’t make promises that your cover letter will dazzle hiring managers each time, but for the right position for you, it will.

Remember Hall and Muehleisen’s advice when you craft your cover letter. Personalization is key to success!

Don't forget to share this post!

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This question is about applying to multiple jobs at the same company .

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple jobs?

No, you can't use the same cover letter for multiple jobs. However, you can use a cover letter template to guide you in the right direction when crafting the cover letter. Take your time reviewing the job listing and identify the top things the hiring manager is looking for. Use this information to help customize your message.

You can repurpose certain parts of your cover letter, but to stand out from the competition, it's important to personalize your letter a little bit, especially if the jobs, industries, or companies have significant differences from each other.

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• Can I Use The Same Cover Letter For Multiple Jobs

Can I Use The Same Cover Letter For Multiple Jobs?

Applying for jobs can be exciting and overwhelming and, sometimes, very time-consuming. You put in the effort to design a great resume and then get asked for a cover letter too? People enjoy saving time by reusing writing but, can you use the same cover letter for multiple jobs?

You shouldn’t use the same cover letter for multiple jobs because every company has different visions and requirements. A cover letter should be tailored to showcase how your skills will match the job at each specific company. This conveys your research and higher interest in working for the company.

We’re going to help you out a bit more with your cover letter queries. Read on to see!

Should I write a new cover letter for every job?

You should write a new cover letter for every job that you apply to because you want to address the company’s specific requirements. Cover letters are an introduction of yourself as a worker to a hiring manager and they will be searching for specific characteristics.

Writing a new cover letter for every job give you an opportunity to properly address the recruitment team, instead of using a generic greeting. It also allows you to paint a picture of yourself as a worker for them specifically. You want to tailor your writing to their professional standards to match the company. Explain why you meet each dot point in their employee requirement list. This is your chance to explain what you have to offer the company. It’s just like highlighting your most suitable qualifications by adapting your resume for different jobs .

A well-written cover letter can make all the difference between getting an interview or not. By tailoring your cover letter to each company, you’re showing that you care about your work. You will seem more eager to become a part of their team. This is also beneficial if the hiring company is using a recruitment agency to find workers. You will have an extra level of people to impress initially to move through the application process. For example, a business might request labour hire from somewhere like Canberra Labour Hire. It is our job to organise the most qualified and reliable labour workers for the job. If you customise your cover letter for the job, you’re more likely to be interviewed because you already pointed out why you’re a good match.

Why you shouldn’t send the same cover letter to different employers

By tailoring your cover letter to each company, you are also giving your personality more of a chance to show. Think of how you would act at each company for an interview. The way you act at job interviews changes with every interview. Apply this to your cover letter writing to make it more personal. Then you have a great combination of matching their requirements while showcasing your personality.

Employers also examine your cover letter for how much research you have put into the company. If you don’t show any evidence that you have checked out the company as well as the job, you’re less likely to gain an interview. A great thing to research is the company’s main ideas and values. These might be similar to other companies, but they will always have their own unique touch. If you send the same cover letter to multiple companies, you are risking not showing an understanding of these company visions.

A recent survey found that 83% of all hiring decision-makers would give an applicant a chance if they received a good cover letter, even if the applicant had a lacklustre resume. By tailoring and personalising every cover letter, you are greatly increasing your chances of being requested for an interview. For an extra 20 minutes during a job application – why wouldn’t you do it?

What parts of a cover letter can I reuse?

When it comes to changing your cover letter for different jobs, you just want to focus on incorporating their visions into your skills. Because it is only a brief introduction to who you are, you don’t need to completely scrap your cover letter every time. Keep mentions of your qualifications, experience, and skills, but explain why they are useful for that job specifically. This is all part of writing cover letters for multiple jobs instead of using the same cover letter.

Can I reuse a cover letter at the same company?

You shouldn’t reuse a cover letter at the same company or when applying for multiple jobs. Even if it is a position at a company you already work at, it’s important to adapt your cover letter for the specific job. You show that you have put more time and effort into your application and that you appreciate the work by hiring managers too. Plus, you never know what might draw them to you. You might add an extra sentence to your second cover letter that completely catches their eye. That could be the sentence that gets you the job interview.

You can use a similar, but not an identical cover letter at the same company you have already applied to. The company will still have the same visions in mind. It’s your task to change how you explain your skills to match these visions in a different job position. If you can show your versatility through two different applications at the same company, you will get the attention of employers.

The job application process is exciting and a bit nerve-wracking. You want to make sure that you do everything right along the way. Have you wondered if you should call about a job application ? Sometimes you successfully make it through the hiring process, but then a job turns out different than advertised . We have lots of work guidance and more on our Canberra Labour Hire blog! If you’re looking to hire labour workers in Canberra, reach out and let us help you find the perfect person for the job!

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• Ask Amanda: Should I Have...

Ask Amanda: Should I Have Multiple Versions of My Resume?

3 min read · Updated on December 11, 2021

Each week, TopResume's career advice expert, Amanda Augustine, answers user questions like the one below from Quora and our Ask Amanda form. A certified professional career coach (CPCC) and resume writer (CPRW), Amanda has been helping professionals improve their careers for nearly 15 years. Have a question for Amanda? Submit it here .

Q: Should you have separate resumes for different types of jobs?

If I can take different paths in my career, should I have multiple resumes? — Apurba

Great question, Apurba! At TopResume, we often get asked about using multiple resume versions for the job search.  

There is a big difference between customizing your resume for a specific position with an employer and creating a completely different resume for each job application. If you're pursuing a few different roles but they're all related to one discipline or field, then there's no reason why you should need multiple resume versions.

Instead, you should have what I refer to as a “base” resume document that's positioned for a particular field. When you find a job listing that you're interested in and qualified to perform, I recommend comparing your resume to the job description and making slight tweaks to ensure your application highlights your most relevant skills and qualifications and uses terminology found in the job listing. Click on the following link for more information on how to customize your resume for a specific job .

When you take these steps to tailor your resume for a specific job application, you increase your application's chances of making it past the digital gatekeeper, known as an applicant tracking system (ATS), and the initial six-second test.

Related:   How to Pass the 6-Second Resume Test

When should you have different resume versions

There's only one scenario that warrants creating multiple versions of your resume: If you're interested in pursuing job opportunities in two completely different fields, then you should create two different versions of your resume.

For instance, if you are interested in applying for jobs in software engineering and jobs in account management, then you would need two completely different resumes that are tailored to highlight the relevant skills, education, and work experience you possess for these respective career paths.

A word of caution, though. An effective job search requires more than just a well-crafted resume . Today's job seekers are expected to advertise their candidacy to employers consistently online, on paper, and in person. You may be able to create multiple versions of your resume, but that isn't a realistic option for your LinkedIn profile. In addition, how you evaluate and prioritize your contacts and networking activities will all depend on your goals. When you're targeting multiple career paths, you're multiplying the work you'll need to do. Whenever possible, I strongly recommend narrowing your search down to one area of focus. This is the surest way to build an effective job-search campaign.

Unsure of how to position your resume for your job search? Let one of our expert writers help .

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