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3 Hospitality Cover Letter Examples for the Job in 2024

• Hospitality Cover Letter
• Hotel Front Desk Receptionist Cover Letter
• Concierge Cover Letter
• Write Your Hospitality Cover Letter

Optimizing customer experiences is where you shine. Whether answering questions, applying food safety protocols, or planning events, you ensure companies get results that keep customers coming back.

Now, it’s time to create a cover letter that’s top-notch and enhances the reviewing experience for hiring managers so your skills stand out.

We’ve created a free cover letter builder and our hospitality cover letter examples based on what works in the industry today to get you back to providing excellent guest service that makes a difference in people’s lives.

Hospitality Cover Letter Example

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Why this cover letter works

• The pro tip here is to fortify your professional experiences with familiarity with industry-relevant platforms. You could highlight how IDeaS Revenue Management System enhanced room booking efficiency or how Expedia and Cloudbeds simplified different tasks. That paints a picture of a tech-savvy professional who understands the industry’s dynamics.

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Hotel Front Desk Receptionist Cover Letter Example

• Begin your piece with a touch of personal flair that grabs attention right off the bat and conclude by painting an inviting picture of what you bring to the table. While articulating your professional experiences, start with the most recent moving backward.

Concierge Cover Letter Example

• Perhaps you facilitated multilingual communication to break language barriers. Or your swift handling of reservations or your cultural awareness earned guests’ admiration. No doubt, managerial prowess is integral, but your knack for creating delightful experiences proves your worth even better.

Related cover letter examples

• Hospitality resume
• Housekeeping

How to Write an Effective Hospitality Cover Letter

Every hospitality role will have varying needs. For example, a travel-related position may require you to help plan itineraries, whereas a hotel may need you to help coordinate cleaning schedules.  

The best way to ensure success will be to review each hospitality job description and customize your cover letter based on the skills and experiences they’re seeking, such as customer service or vendor relations. 

Make a great first impression with the intro of your hospitality cover letter

You know first impressions matter. When someone walks into a hotel or restaurant, the friendliness of the staff and cleanliness of the space can make or break an experience. The same is true for your cover letter, so tailoring the intro to the customer service skills an organization is seeking and its mission will be crucial.

An added touch that’ll help you stand out is greeting a specific hospitality hiring manager by name, which you can often find in job descriptions or on the company’s website. It’s similar to the impact that learning your regular customers’ names will have so you can greet them each time they come in.

The opener below is a decent start, but it lacks some important details about specific skills the restaurant is seeking in a manager or how the applicant connects with their mission.

Try to make more of a connection than this! 

Having worked in the fine dining industry for some time, I’m eager to be applying for your restaurant manager position. I believe my skills will be a great fit for your company’s needs.

The opener below does a much better job outlining the applicant’s multilingual and diverse service skills that will make them a great fit for the concierge role at Mokara Hotel & Spa.

A great opener with tailored hospitality skills! 

Dear Mr. Miller,

The unison of the hospitality industry and multilingual communication forms an intriguing partnership. This interdependence, demonstrated by companies such as Mokara Hotel & Spa to ensure a tailored experience for their diverse clientele, is truly applause-worthy. To engage further with this intersection of service and language, I’m eagerly applying for the concierge position at Mokara Hotel & Spa.

Provide the right details in your hospitality cover letter’s body

With customer satisfaction being such a high priority, the results you achieve in hospitality roles matter a lot. 

You can emphasize your abilities in the body of your hospitality cover letter by including metrics-based examples of what you achieved in previous roles. 

For example, you could write about how you implemented a new training program that reduced service response times by 56%.  

A top-tier body paragraph with hospitality achievements! 

At Windsor Suites, I streamlined the email communication system and efficiently managed 230+ daily inquiries, reducing response time by 29%. I also spearheaded hotel-wide training on email etiquette and management, leading to improved guest communication and feedback rating.

Add the right finishing touches as you close your hospitality cover letter

Think of the closing of your cover letter like you’re wrapping things up with a guest where you want to ensure you’ve covered all their needs. 

In the form of a cover letter, this would include rephrasing how your top skills and connection to the company’s mission make you a great fit. For example, you could write about how you’ll use your email customer service skills to ensure efficient responses to all inquiries. 

Then, wrap things up by saying thank you and use a call to action, such as “I’m looking forward to discussing further how my customer service and supply management skills will fit in with your needs.” 

The example below is a decent start, but the applicant could add more details about the skills they bring as a receptionist and the spa’s mission that would help them stand out.

This sounds too generic! 

I’m eager to discuss further how my skills will make me a great receptionist at your spa. Thank you for your consideration. 

A closer like the one below that displays the applicant’s passion for customer service and knowledge of Philadelphia’s hospitality industry will work much better. 

A great closer connected to the hotel’s mission! 

At the Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel, I aspire to synergize my experience with your high service standards, creating an unforgettable experience for guests. My commitment to exceptional service and extensive knowledge of Philadelphia’s hospitality industry align me perfectly with your institution’s ethos. If you require any further information, do not hesitate to reach out. Thank you.

Isabella Bianchi

There are still ways you can stand out with minimal hospitality experience. You could include achievements from transferable experiences, such as other jobs involving skills like inventory management or customer service. Or, include educational achievements from obtaining a degree in hospitality management or related fields.  

Trying to match the tone of each job description will work best. It’ll show how you fit in with the culture and service standards of each hospitality organization, such as how you’ll provide upbeat service at a family-friendly restaurant. 

While you can use the same template, you should customize the details for each hospitality job you apply to. It’ll help you stand out when one organization needs you to help with catering, and another will have you focused on monitoring inventory records. 

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Hospitality Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Perfecting your hospitality cover letter could be the key to securing your dream job in this vibrant industry. This comprehensive guide will share priceless tips , provide real-life examples, and lead you down the path to success.

And so, read on and learn all about:

• Formatting your hospitality cover letter
• Crafting an effective cover letter header
• Writing an eye-catching cover letter headline
• Building a strong cover letter introduction
• Highlighting your skills and accomplishments in cover letter body paragraphs
• Writing a strong conclusion
• Avoiding common mistakes on a hospitality cover letter
• Average salary and job outlook for hospitality professionals
• Hospitality resources for job seekers

1. How to properly format your hospitality cover letter

The neatness and clarity of your hospitality cover letter are just as important as its content. Here's how you can format your cover letter to make it an engaging read.

• Start with the basics: A standard business letter format is a reliable choice. Your name and contact details should be at the top, followed by the date, and then the employer's name and contact information. 
• Choose a clear font: Steer clear of fancy fonts — stick with ones that are easy on the eyes. Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in 10-12 size is a good way to go. 
• Keep it short: Your cover letter should be concise and straight to the point. Aim to fit everything within half a page or about 250 words.
• Space it out: Using 1.5 or double spacing helps ensure your cover letter doesn't look cluttered. 
• Set your margins: Standard one-inch margins on all sides are typically the best bet for an organized appearance. 
• Break it down: Divide your cover letter into sections: introduction, main body, and conclusion. Each part should transition smoothly into the next.
• Sign off nicely: Wrap up your cover letter with your signature — just another slight personal touch to the document.

Now, with the proper formatting done, let's move on to the meat of your cover letter — the content.

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2. how to write an effective header for your hospitality cover letter .

The header of your cover letter is the very first thing an employer will see, so it's important to get it right. In essence, the header is your business card within the cover letter, containing crucial contact details about you and the hiring manager.

Your header should contain the following:

• Your full name
• Your complete address (though sometimes, city, and state will suffice)
• Phone number
• Professional email address
• Hiring manager’s full name and title
• The company’s name
• The company’s address

Here are examples showing incorrect and correct ways of writing a hospitality cover letter header:

Incorrect hospitality cover letter header example

John Doe [email protected] 08/14/2021

To: Hiring Manager XYZ Hotel

Why is this example weak? Here, the header misses out on key details such as the sender's complete address and contact number. What’s more, it doesn't specify the hiring manager's name and the company's address.

Correct hospitality cover letter header example

John Doe 123 Main Street Springfield, IL 62701 (217) 555-1234 [email protected] August 14, 2022

To: Ms. Jane Smith Hiring Manager XYZ Hotel 789 Central Avenue Springfield, IL 62701

Why is this a strong header? This version is complete and professional, providing all necessary details. The sender's full name, complete address, and contact details are at the top, followed by the current date. The hiring manager's name and company's details are clearly marked next.

A nicely formatted header sets the tone for the rest of your cover letter. Make it count!

3. How to craft a compelling cover letter headline

A headline in a cover letter is a short, catchy statement that grabs the reader's attention right away . An effective one previews what's to come and stirs interest. 

In crafting a powerful headline, infuse it with:

• Your main qualification
• Things you bring to the table
• How your skills align with the job
• Enthusiasm for the role and company

Weak hospitality cover letter headline example

Hospitality Professional Applying for Job

Why is this example incorrect? This headline is too vague. It doesn't specify what the role is, and fails to generate interest. 

Strong hospitality cover letter headline example

Experienced Hospitality Manager Ready to Boost Guest Satisfaction at XYZ Hotel

Why is this headline strong? It gets attention. It includes the title of the role, a key skill (boosting guest satisfaction), and the specific name of the company, showing enthusiasm and alignment with the targeted role.

So craft a headline that makes the hiring manager stop in their tracks, eager to read further. This is your moment to make a strong first impression.

4. How to customize your cover letter greeting

Casting a personalized greeting in your cover letter seamlessly paves the way for an engaging conversation. It reveals that you've taken an extra step to find out who you're writing to. Addressing them by name imparts immediate familiarity and interest in your letter .

So, where do you find the hiring manager's name? Get in the detective mode:

• Check the job listing carefully
• Visit the company's website 
• Leverage LinkedIn
• Call the company to ask

Examples of personalized greetings for your hospitality cover letter

• Dear Mr. Blake,
• Dear William Blake,
• Dear Hiring Manager Wiliam Blake

Yet, there may be times when the hiring manager's name isn't available. In these cases, steer away from generic greetings like "To whom it may concern". Here are better alternatives: 

• Dear Hiring Manager (a safe, gender-neutral option)
• Dear [Department] Team (shows your interest in the team you will be working with)
• Dear [Company Name] Recruiter 

Investing time in finding the hiring manager's name and personalizing your greeting will give your hospitality cover letter a head start. Indeed, often little details like these make a big difference.

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5. How to write a strong hospitality cover letter introduction

A compelling introduction is one of the most crucial aspects of your cover letter. It grabs the reader's attention from the word go and provides a snapshot of your professional journey. 

A successful introduction should include:

• A concise overview of your professional and academic background
• A clear statement about why you're applying for this position
• A mention of any mutual acquaintances, if applicable

Incorrect hospitality cover letter opening example 

I'm writing to apply for the position at your hotel. I have a degree in hospitality management and have worked in a hotel before.

Why does this intro fall flat? It fails to provide specific details about the professional journey, the reasons for applying, and the name of the position or the hotel.

Correct hospitality cover letter opening for an experienced professional

As an accomplished Hotel Manager with 7 years' experience in providing top-tier guest experiences, I am excited to apply for the Hospitality Manager position at XYZ Hotel. Our mutual acquaintance, Jane Doe, recommended this role to me and spoke highly of XYZ Hotel's commitment to quality service.

Why is this introduction strong? This introduction ticks all boxes; it details the experience, mentions the specific role, name-drops the hotel, explains the reason for applying, and includes a reference.

Correct cover letter opening for a recent graduate

As a recent graduate in Hospitality Management from Boston University with internship experience at prestigious hotels, I am enthusiastic about bringing fresh perspectives to the Hospitality Assistant role at XYZ Hotel. My academic exposure and hands-on experience have steeled my passion for providing guests with unforgettable experiences.

Why is this intro ideal for a fresh graduate? This portrays the candidate as a keen learner ready to transition from academic to professional life. It indicates notable achievements and how they align with the role sought.

Ultimately, your introduction must demonstrate your understanding of the job requirements, your eagerness for the role, and set the tone for the rest of the cover letter.

6. How to highlight your top skills and accomplishments as a hospitality professional

Pouring the most captivating part of your hospitality cover letter, the body is where you showcase your skills and accomplishments . It's where you list your ingredients that make you an ideal candidate.

Format this section into two or three short paragraphs or a combination of paragraphs and bullet points, making it easier to digest. 

Underline your skills that align directly with the job requirements. Here are some typical hospitality skills that shouldn’t miss in your cover letter:

• Customer service 
• Communication 
• Multitasking 
• Problem-solving 
• Flexibility 
• Attention to detail

You can’t go wrong in your body paragraphs if you:

• Celebrate your achievements:  Your cover letter is the place to shine. Relate your achievements to tangible percentages, numbers or specific milestones, if possible.
• Use clear and specific examples to highlight how you've applied these skills in the past.

Hospitality cover letter body paragraph example

At my previous position as Front Office Manager at ABC Hotel, I coordinated the team effectively, driving a 15% boost in staff productivity, which cascaded into higher guest satisfaction rates. 

Fret not if you lack professional experience. Focus on transferable skills, internships, or course projects that demonstrate your capabilities and commitment.

Fresh graduate’s cover letter body paragraph example

As a recent graduate from the Hospitality Management program at XYZ University, I bring a comprehensive understanding of hospitality industry dynamics. During my internship at ABC Hotel, I successfully project-managed a campaign promoting off-season visits, resulting in a noteworthy occupancy rate lift during these traditionally low seasons. 

Remember, your accomplishments and skills serve as the proof of your potential. Use them wisely and you'll have a hospitality cover letter that's tough to turn down.

Pro tip: Showcasing skills specifically tailored to the job qualifications increases chances of securing an interview. And so, highlighting hospitality skills in your cover letter that match the job description is a strategy that can significantly impact your chances of getting noticed.

7. How to persuasively end your hospitality cover letter

Much like the last goodnight of a well-hosted event, the concluding paragraph of your cover letter holds vital importance. It's your final pitch, a moment to cement the positive impression you've created throughout the letter.

A powerful conclusion should:

• Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position
• Recap why you're the best fit for the job
• Indicate your availability for further discussion and how you can be reached
• Strategically mention your plan for a follow-up
• And of course, it should end with a professional sign-off

Hospitality cover letter conclusion example

I am enthusiastic about the prospect of bringing my unique blend of skills and experience to XYZ Hotel as the Hospitality Manager. I am confident I can make significant contributions to your team and uplift the guest experience further. 

Please feel free to contact me at (123) 456-7890 or via email at [email protected] to arrange a convenient time to talk. Meanwhile, I look forward to a positive response and will follow up next week to discuss any potential next steps.

Thank you for considering my application. 

In essence, the conclusion is your final opportunity to communicate your desire, readiness, and aptitude for the role. Make the most of it, and you'll be that much closer to an interview.

8. How to avoid common mistakes on your hospitality cover letter

Even a minor mistake in your cover letter can cost you a job opportunity, so let's address some common blunders and discuss how to dodge them.

• Too long or too short: Avoid crafting an epic novel or a key-note speech. Aim for 250-400 words, which typically amounts to 3-4 concise paragraphs.
• Sending a generic letter: Carefully customize your cover letter for each job application. Highlight how your skills and experience align specifically with the job description provided.
• Focusing too much on education for experienced roles: For experienced professionals, the focus should be on relevant past job experiences, skills, and achievements. Educational details should be brief and secondary.
• Forgetting to proofread: Errors signal lack of attention to detail. Always proofread your letter multiple times, and consider asking a friend or using a digital tool to help with this.
• Being negative or apologetic: Never point out what you lack; rather, skillfully focus on showcasing what you can offer. 
• Incorrect or missing contact information: Ensure the personal details and contact information you provide are up-to-date and error-free. This is crucial for if and when the employer decides to contact you.
• Improper formatting: Maintain professional and clean formatting throughout. Bunched-up text is hard on the eyes. Make use of line breaks, bullet points, and adequate spacing.

By dodging these common pitfalls, you can ensure your hospitality cover letter is error-free, compelling, and showcases you as the best candidate for the job.

9. Average wage and job outlook for hospitality professionals

In terms of earnings and job prospects, the hospitality sector presents an appealing landscape. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the average hourly earnings for professionals within the hospitality and leisure sector stood at $21.36 as of October 2023.

In terms of job prospects, the picture is incredibly promising too. As a testament to the sector's vitality, leisure and hospitality had been adding an impressive average of 79,000 jobs per month in 2022. With this steady upward trend, opportunities for career growth and development in the hospitality field are clearly abundant.

In conclusion, the hospitality sector not only offers the possibility for a stable and rewarding income but also presents a bright job outlook, making it an excellent career choice for both budding and experienced professionals .

10. Hospitality resources for job seekers

As a job seeker in the hospitality industry, it's crucial to stay informed, and there are fantastic resources out there to help you achieve just that. Whether you're looking for job listings, industry news, networking opportunities, or career advice, here are some go-to platforms:

• HospitalityNet: A comprehensive resource offering industry news, job listings, events, and valuable market insights.
• Hcareers: A dedicated hospitality job board catering to all levels of job-seekers with opportunities from around the globe.
• eHotelier: This provides professional development resources, global hospitality job listings, and the latest industry news and insights.
• American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA): A renowned resource offering networking opportunities, updates on industry trends, and even advocacy resources.
• LinkedIn: Don’t underestimate this networking giant. It's a tremendous resource for job listings, industry updates, and a platform to connect with fellow professionals.
• Caterer.com: This is the UK's largest hospitality job board, offering job advertisements from some of the top employers in the industry. 
• Hospitality trends: Stay updated with the latest trends in the hospitality industry, from hotel design to customer service innovations.
• National Restaurant Association (NRA): If you're focused on the restaurant industry, the NRA is a must-follow for the latest news, learning resources, and events. 
• Cornell Hospitality Quarterly: Published by Sage in association with the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, this journal offers a wealth of academic and industry insights.

So dive in, soak up the wealth of information these resources offer, and accelerate towards a successful finish line in your hospitality job hunt.

Hospitality Cover Letter FAQ

No, it's best to customize each cover letter for the specific job to which you're applying. Address the unique requirements of each role to show you've thoroughly read the job description and understand what's needed.

It's generally a good idea to include a cover letter unless the job posting explicitly advises against it. A cover letter gives you another opportunity to sell yourself.

No, your cover letter and resume should complement each other, not replicate the exact same information. Your cover letter is an opportunity to explain in more detail the key professional experiences or skills listed briefly on your resume. Use it to demonstrate how these experiences or skills make you an ideal candidate for the job.

Unless the job posting specifically asks for this information, it's better to discuss salary expectations later, perhaps during an interview or job offer discussion.

It depends on what's requested in the job posting. You might attach it as a Word document or PDF, or paste it in the body of an email. Always follow the employer's instructions.

Martin Poduška

Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .

Subcategories

• Food Preparation
• Hotel Manager
• Housekeeping
• Restaurant Manager

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Hospitality cover letter examples

Do you have what it takes to provide customers or guests with the best possible experience?

Of course, you do. But working with the public isn’t always easy and you need to prove you’ve got what it takes to juggle responsibilities, be helpful and communicate effectively.

To help you get all of these details into just a few short paragraphs, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide, complete with multiple hospitality cover letter examples.

CV templates 

Hospitality cover letter example 1

Hospitality cover letter example 2

Hospitality cover letter example 3

These 3 Hospitality cover letter examples will provide you with some good ideas on how to format a cover letter, along with the type of message you should be trying to put across to recruiters .

To further understand exactly how you can write a cover letter that will get you noticed, check out our further guidance.

How to write a Hospitality cover letter

Here’s how to write your own winning Hospitality cover letter

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

Type the content of your cover letter directly into the email you are sending, or if you are applying via a job board, directly into their messaging system.

The reason for doing this it to ensure that your cover letter gets seen instantly and you can start connecting with the recruiter as soon as they open your message.

If you attach your cover letter as a separate document, the recipient will have to open up the document, which will slow the process down, or make them less likely to even open your cover letter – which could mean your application gets skipped over.

Start with a friendly greeting

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

After you have greeted the recruiter, it’s important to state the job you are applying to.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so they need to know exactly which job you are referring to.

Be as specific as possible and use a reference number if you can find one.

Here are some examples you can use;

• I am interested in applying for the role of admin assistant with your organisation.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 4057393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advertisement for a trainee project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The main purpose of your cover letter is to excite recruiters and make them eager to open your CV. And you achieve this by quickly demonstrating your suitability to the job you are applying for.

Take a look at the job adverts you are applying for, and make note of the most important skills being asked for.

Then, when you write your cover letter, make your suitability the focal point.

Explain how you meet the candidate requirements fully, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider your application.

Keep it short and sharp

When sending a job application to a recruiter or hiring manager, it is important to remember that they will normally be very busy and pushed for time.

Therefore, you need to get you message across to them quickly (in a matter of seconds ideally). So, keep your cover letter short and to-the-point. A long waffling cover letter will overwhelm recruiters when they are running through hundreds of emails in there inbox, but a concise one will get their attention.

So, keep your cover letter to just a few sentences long, and save the extensive detail for your CV.

Sign off professionally

To round of your cover letter, add a professional signature to the bottom, giving recruiters your vital contact information.

This not only gives various means of contacting you, it also looks really professional and shows that you know how to communicate in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Gerald Baker Senior Accountant 07887500404 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application email, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Hospitality cover letter

So, what type of information should you write about in your Hospitality cover letter?

The specifics will obviously depend on your profession and the jobs you are applying to, but these are the key areas you should be covering.

• Your industry experience – Tell recruiters the types of companies you have been working for and the roles you have held in the past.
• Your qualifications – Highlight your most important relevant qualifications to show employers you are qualified to do the roles you are applying for.
• The impact you have made – Demonstrate the positive impact you have made for employers in previous jobs. Have you saved money? Improved processes? Made customers happy?
• Your reasons for moving – Employers will want to know why you are leaving your current/previous role, so provide them with a brief explanation here.
• Your availability – When will you be able to start a new job ? Check your current contract to find out your notice period if you are in a position already.

Hospitality cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Hospitality cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Hope you’re well. I am writing to express my keen interest in the position of Hospitality Manager at InterContinental Hotels Group, as advertised on LinkedIn. With a strong background in hospitality management and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences, I am thrilled about the opportunity to contribute my expertise to the esteemed team at your establishment.

With a BBA from the University of London, I bring 8 years of experience in coordinating diverse hospitality operations. My journey in the industry has allowed me to cultivate a keen understanding of the importance of delivering outstanding service while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

Throughout my career, I have held key leadership roles, including my most recent position as an Assistant Hospitality Manager at Travelodge. Under my guidance, I boosted customer satisfaction ratings by 24%, implemented strategies that led to a 65% increase in revenue, and enhanced staff performance by 20% through introducing novel training initiatives.

I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my skills could add value to your department, and I am available to meet you at your earliest convenience.

Kind regards

Thomas Hatton ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Hope you’re well. I am thrilled to apply for the position of Hospitality Food and Beverage Assistant at Hilton Worldwide as advertised on your website. With a strong passion for the hospitality industry and a keen eye for delivering exceptional dining experiences, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my expertise and enthusiasm to the esteemed F&B team at your organisation.

In my current role as a Server at Marriott International, I have cultivated a deep appreciation for the art of culinary service and a commitment to exceeding business expectations. My hands-on experience in F&B operations, combined with my ability to work effectively in fast-paced environments, has enabled me to consistently provide top-notch service to guests. Some of my accomplishments here include upselling menu items which increased YoY F&B revenue by 40%, contributing to a 20% decrease in health violations through enforcing strict health and safety guidelines, and achieving an average guest satisfaction score of 9.5 (out of 10) based on customer surveys.

I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my career aspirations align with your objectives. I am available for an interview at your convenience.

Lisa Abraham ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Good morning, Jessica

I hope this email finds you well. I am excited to apply for the position of Server at Best Western Hotels & Resorts, as advertised on LinkedIn. With a genuine passion for delivering exceptional customer service and a commitment to creating memorable dining experiences.

Throughout my career as a hospitality professional, I have had the privilege of working in diverse restaurant settings, from upscale dining to casual bistros. My experiences have solidified my belief in the art of hospitality and my dedication to ensuring that each guest leaves with a smile.

As a Server at Britannia Hotels, I provide personalised service and maintain a welcoming atmosphere. I take pride in my excellent communication skills, which enabled me to increase the average check size by 20% through effective upselling techniques. I also trained new servers towards improving their performance by 10%, as well as contributing to the success of parties where £30K+ profits were generated.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your department and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Alex Maddison ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing a strong attention-grabbing cover letter is a vital step in landing a good Hospitality job.

Use the tips, strategies and examples above to get more responses from you job applications and start lining job interview up.

Good luck with your job search!

Hospitality Manager Cover Letter Example

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Start your Hospitality Manager cover letter by addressing the hiring manager directly, if possible. Then, introduce yourself and the position you're applying for. Make sure to mention where you found the job listing. For example, "Dear Mr. Smith, I am writing to apply for the Hospitality Manager position I saw listed on your website." Following this, briefly mention your relevant experience in the hospitality industry and express your enthusiasm for the role. This will help to grab the hiring manager's attention and make them want to read more. Remember, the opening of your cover letter sets the tone for the rest of the document, so make it engaging and professional.

The best way for Hospitality Managers to end a cover letter is by expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity and a desire to discuss their qualifications further in an interview. This can be done by saying something like, "I am excited about the possibility of bringing my unique skills and experiences to your team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your success in more detail." It's also important to thank the reader for their time and consideration. This shows respect and appreciation, which are key qualities in the hospitality industry. Lastly, sign off professionally with a closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best Regards," followed by your full name.

In a cover letter, Hospitality Managers should include the following key elements: 1. Contact Information: At the top of the letter, include your full name, address, phone number, and email address. If applicable, you can also include your LinkedIn profile or professional website. 2. Professional Greeting: Address the hiring manager by name if possible. If not, use a professional greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager". 3. Introduction: Start with a strong opening that grabs the reader's attention. Mention the position you're applying for and where you found the job listing. 4. Relevant Experience: Highlight your most relevant experience and skills that make you a strong candidate for the position. As a Hospitality Manager, you might want to mention your experience in managing teams, overseeing operations, improving guest satisfaction, and increasing revenue. Use specific examples and quantify your achievements if possible. 5. Understanding of the Company: Show that you've done your research and understand what the company is about. Mention what you admire about the company and how you can contribute to its goals and values. 6. Closing Statement: In your conclusion, express your enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to contribute to the team. Also, indicate your availability for an interview. 7. Professional Closing: End the letter with a professional closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. 8. Postscript: A postscript (P.S.) is optional but can be used to highlight an impressive achievement that might intrigue the hiring manager. Remember, your cover letter should complement, not duplicate, your resume. It's an opportunity to show your personality and demonstrate why you would be a good fit for the role and the company.

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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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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!

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