sample cover letter for a project manager

17 Project Manager Cover Letter Examples

Project Managers excel at orchestrating complex operations, aligning resources, and steering projects to successful completion. Similarly, your cover letter is your platform to demonstrate your ability to manage, align, and steer your professional narrative towards your career goals. In this guide, we'll delve into top-notch Project Manager cover letter examples, helping you to construct a compelling narrative that showcases your project management prowess.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start a Project Manager cover letter is by capturing the hiring manager's attention with a specific accomplishment that showcases your skills and leadership. Begin with a statement such as: 'Successfully overseeing a project that led to a 25% efficiency increase at [Previous Company], I recognized the value of thorough planning and cross-functional collaboration.' This not only establishes your credibility but also directly ties your experience to tangible results. From there, express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and hint at how your skills align with the company's objectives. Such a start demonstrates your proactive nature, expertise, and understanding of the pivotal role a Project Manager plays in driving organizational success.

Project Managers should end a cover letter by summarizing their interest in the position and their belief in their ability to contribute positively to the company. This can be done by reiterating key skills or experiences that align with the job description. It's also important to express enthusiasm for the opportunity to discuss the role further in an interview. For example: "I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of project management skills and experience to your team, and I am confident that I can help drive successful project outcomes. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my candidacy further. Thank you for considering my application." Remember to end with a professional closing like 'Sincerely' or 'Best regards', followed by your full name. This ending strikes a balance between professionalism and enthusiasm, leaving a positive impression on the hiring manager.

A Project Manager's cover letter should ideally be about one page long. This length is enough to succinctly present your skills, experiences, and achievements relevant to the job without overwhelming the reader. It's important to keep it concise and to the point, focusing on your most relevant experiences and how they align with the job requirements. Remember, hiring managers often have to go through numerous applications, so a shorter, well-crafted cover letter is more likely to hold their attention.

Writing a cover letter with no direct experience as a Project Manager can seem challenging, but it's important to remember that many skills are transferable and relevant to the role. Here are some steps to guide you: 1. **Research**: Understand the role of a Project Manager and the skills required. This will help you identify which of your experiences and skills are relevant. 2. **Introduction**: Start your cover letter by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role. 3. **Highlight Relevant Skills**: Even if you haven't worked as a Project Manager, you likely have skills that are relevant to the role. These could include leadership, organization, communication, problem-solving, and time management. Discuss these skills and provide examples of when you've used them. 4. **Discuss Relevant Experiences**: If you've managed a project, even if it wasn't in a professional setting, it's worth mentioning. This could be anything from organizing a charity event to leading a group project at school. Be sure to discuss the outcomes of these projects and what you learned from them. 5. **Show Your Willingness to Learn**: As you don't have direct experience, it's important to show that you're eager to learn and grow in the role. You could mention any relevant courses or certifications you're planning to take. 6. **Closing**: In your closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the role and your willingness to bring your transferable skills to the job. Thank the employer for considering your application. Remember, your cover letter should be concise, professional, and tailored to the job description. Proofread it carefully to avoid any errors.

Related Cover Letters for Project Managers

Program manager cover letter.

Project Coordinator Cover Letter

Technical Project Manager Cover Letter

Event Planner Cover Letter

Event Manager Cover Letter

Agile Project Manager Cover Letter

Assistant Project Manager Cover Letter

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5 Project Manager Cover Letter Examples Created in 2024

• Project Manager (PM) Cover Letter
• Creative PM
• Technical PM
• Write a PM Job Cover Letter
• PM Cover Letter FAQs

Project managers are integral in achieving company objectives, communicating, budgeting, and delegating to lead teams to complete projects on time with excellent deliverables. Project managers like you often need to collaborate with other project teams while serving as a liaison who shares team questions, concerns, and ideas. 

Your  job skillset  brings people together to get things done and surpass new company goals. To advance your project manager career, you’ll first need to create a cover letter to complement your  project manager resume . 

Almost everyone dreads writing a cover letter ! But luckily, we’re here to inspire and guide you with our five project manager cover letter samples, a few useful tips, and an outline to get you on your way!

Project Manager Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Why this cover letter works

• Besides ensuring that the company will remember your project manager cover letter, nab the opportunity to show your past and present alignment with the company’s focus and values.
• If you’re struggling to pick which experiences, examples, or metrics to reference, revisit the  project manager job description . Even if you don’t have an exact match, sometimes parallel qualifications will work if they align strongly with the company vision. 

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifiting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Creative Project Manager Cover Letter Example

• As for painting a picture of your professional experiences, capitalize on the reverse chronological order technique. Present your most recent and senior roles first, then narrate the earlier, junior ones.

Project Manager Intern Cover Letter Example

• Such an approach doesn’t just establish an instant connection with the hiring manager. It also demonstrates your understanding of the hiring organization, portrays your enthusiasm for the role, and screams, “Yes, I’m more than ready to be part of your story.”

Technical Project Manager Cover Letter Example

• Connecting on a personal level is a great move! In your technical project manager cover letter, seize the opportunity to offer skills from the job description and tie in background information that aligns you with the company’s mission statement.
• Never hesitate to research more. The job description should give you a wealth of information—and if the job ad is vague, the company’s website ought to be more lucrative. 

Senior Project Manager Cover Letter Example

• A relevant anecdote can be effective if you keep it brief. Provide qualifications that relate to the job role, too, as this is your senior project manager cover letter—and not material for your next slam poetry event!
• Observe the company culture and job description’s tone, and work a similar feel into your letter. Look through the company’s “about” section online for ways to show that you, as a senior project manager, have spent years overcoming obstacles like the very ones they currently face.

Project Manager Resume

Need a resume to pair with your project manager cover letter?

or download as PDF

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Project Management Job

While you’re contemplating the above examples and outlining your own project manager cover letter, remember these three tips for an outstanding final piece: Always learn about the company and job you’re applying for, spotlight your best achievements, and polish your tone.

Write to the project management role and company

So many cover letters get pushed into the abyss for being generic. You don’t want your cover letter to be like everyone elses! So, look for details in the  job description  and “about” sections on the company website that other candidates will overlook. Research the company and role thoroughly, seeking out specific and unique needs that resonate with you.

Project managers are sought after for their ability to bring innovative ideas and prioritized information together for a streamlined game plan, so your cover letter should demonstrate you’ve done this! Research the company’s objectives and use their previous projects as grounds to establish a connection when possible. Look on the company site for specific mission statements or values, and spotlight them when you discuss your qualifications called for by the job ad.

Share your best project management success

You’ll have limited space to work with since your project management cover letter must remain under a page. But on the flip side, don’t simply repeat the bullet points from your resume, either! Pull one or two of your most incredible accomplishments from your resume and then go beyond the bullet points to show the positive impact you made.

For instance, how did you lead a software development project that wound up increasing sales or customer retention rates? Did you meet an impressively high percentage of your team’s project deadlines—er even exceed expectations? What about the time you collaborated with other project managers on a cross-departmental SaaS project that dramatically boosted company profits? 

Find possible opportunities where you can highlight how your experience as a project manager has benefitted others in ways that parallel what the job description and company need.

Mimic the tone of the company

Many hopeful applicants struggle with polishing their cover letters; you’ve described your accomplishments in-depth with eye-catching details and tailored your skills to the job ad after researching the company—and all in under a page! But what now? Next up, you’ll perfect your cover letter’s tone and resulting overall message.

If you’ve checked all the boxes but still don’t feel like you’ve nailed it, revisit the job listing and company website with fresh eyes. This time, now that you’ve got all your ducks in a row in terms of your qualifications and background, focus on the personality that’s demonstrated in the job description—and especially on the company site. What’s the company culture like?

Study the tone of the organization: Do they sound more corporate, sticking with formal terms and efficient wording? Or do they cultivate a more laid-back atmosphere with a conversational tone and occasional touches of humor? 

Focus on the personality that’s demonstrated in the job description—and especially on the company site .

Whatever tone the company uses, revise your cover letter to match it and show that you’re the one who gets it! You may spend a little extra time editing and revising, but it’ll be well worth it to showcase what a stand-out candidate you are.

A Cover Letter Outline for Project Managers

Let’s break things down so that your letter will be downright incredible! If you find a  resume outline  helpful, we dare say that this handy outline—complete with examples from the letters you read earlier—will be vital for understanding the nuances and taking your next steps with confidence.

How to start a project manager cover letter

Your contact info:  Include your name, address, phone number, and email address (plus your LinkedIn or other professional social media) if you’re using a cover letter template. 

• Formatting : Leave your name out of your address if you’re using a block format.

513 Made-up Street Upland, CA 91784 (123) 456-7890

Date:  This should reflect the exact submission date of your application materials, e.g., January 5, 2023.

• Formatting : Write out the full date—it’ll look more professional than the shortened version. 

Inside address:  This is just the address of the person receiving your application materials. Always look up and include their name, company and role, and address. 

Isabelle Brody, Hiring Manager PharmaCord  150 Hilton Dr. Jeffersonville, IN 47130

• Formatting : Each part of the address should be on a new line. Remember to double-space between the inside address and greeting, too.

Greeting:  Your greeting, also known as your salutation, is the first impression you’ll make in your cover letter—and first impressions are critical! Hunt down the name of the person you’re writing to (LinkedIn is your friend here), always avoiding generic terms like “Dear Sir/Madam.”

• Formatting : You can follow your greeting with a comma if the overall company tone is more casual. When in doubt, use a colon.

Dear Mr. Iglesias,  Dear Ms. Brody:

How to write your project manager cover letter

Body:  The body of your cover letter is the stage for your career highlights and qualifications to shine. Write three to four paragraphs that develop your interest, credentials, and enthusiasm for future contact and discussion.

Opening paragraph:  To put it bluntly, most cover letters are terribly boring and unenthusiastic—and the company will be just as unenthusiastic about a candidate with a bland cover letter, regardless of how qualified they might be. Compare the following examples to see how you can write an eye-catching opening paragraph for your project manager cover letter.

I didn’t really like having to use Zoom at first, but now I like it. I’d like to work for the company too and I’m great at organizing stuff so I’m a great choice.

Why It’s Bad:  Oh no—what was that?! It should go without saying to never reference the company in a negative way—there’s no redemption after that. Besides, this opening paragraph is much too informal and lacks examples of how the candidate is supposedly “great at organizing stuff” that could connect them with the company’s goals.

Like countless others across the globe, I experienced difficulties adjusting to a new lifestyle after 2020, but Zoom saved the day with a platform for everything from work-at-home meetings to connecting with my family for occasions that I otherwise would have missed. And thanks to my adaptability, SaaS experience, and PMP certification, I now hope to provide my coordination, organizational, and management skills to help Zoom deliver happiness to other folks as well.

Why It’s Good:  While the candidate with the sketchy opener probably meant that they disliked having to use Zoom because of its association with the pandemic, this much-better opener is crystal-clear about how Zoom actually helped alleviate stress in a difficult situation. Then, we see a smooth transition into skills and experience that reference Zoom’s mission statement of improving communication.   

Paragraphs 2-3:  Now it’s time to put your money where your mouth is! These body paragraphs are meant to substantiate and expound upon the claims made in your opening paragraph. Think of when you revolutionized a company app’s infrastructure or brought various departments together to improve customer feedback—but stick to one achievement per paragraph since you don’t have much room.

While I thrive in creative environments, I never hesitate to take ownership of the technical aspects of project management as well. Etsy afforded a unique view into customer fulfillment infrastructures and key components like monitoring competitive bids and value engineering for the sake of maintaining profitability. By using Google Analytics to gauge and proactively improve the success of new product features, I boosted daily engagement by 21 percent.

Why It’s Good:  This candidate draws compelling parallels between their experience at Etsy and their present potential to further Spotify’s goals. The two companies are quite different, but the applicant finds soft and hard skills coupled with metrics that translate beautifully between the two. The abilities mentioned in this paragraph also reference specific challenges and skills from the job description. Two thumbs up!

Closing paragraph:  Your closing paragraph should summarize the highlights that make you the perfect candidate who’s ready to make the company’s needs and vision your own. Finally, end with a call to action that further emphasizes your interest.

Spotify’s great, I listen to it all the time. As you already saw, I’ve got all kinds of qualifications that would help your company. If you’re interested in more information, just ask.

Why It’s Bad:  Well, this could be worse, but it’s still too informal and vague—not to mention a tad presumptuous. The candidate misses opportunities to work in specifics from the job description or company mission statement. The tone needs work, too: This reads more like a text than the conclusion of a cover letter.

Thinking analytically, communicating proactively, and building trusting relationships that would drive Spotify’s initiative to create more meaningful connections between artists and fans excites me for the future. Music has been core to some of the most special moments in my life, and I am eager to create equally beautiful moments for millions of others by acting as Spotify’s project manager. I’d love to connect with you soon on how I can improve your reach. 

Why It’s Good:  This candidate leads with more relevant skills and an enthusiastic description of how they’ll further Spotify’s goals. Before the call to action, the applicant’s personal connection makes a return appearance and elegantly reinforces their reference to the company’s initiative.

• Formatting : Single-space your body text, but double-space between paragraphs for better readability.

Signature:  Thank the reader for their time if you didn’t already do so in your closing paragraph. Otherwise, use a brief and professional closing phrase followed by your real name.

Cynthia Anderson

• Formatting : If you’re giving out hard copies of your project manager cover letter, quadruple space after your name, so you can sign by hand in blue/black ink.

Enclosure(s):  This important piece tells the reader that there’s more good stuff to review after your cover letter. Project managers should include their resume, application, and any professional recommendation letters or required certifications.

Enclosures: Resume Application ACP certification

• Formatting : Check that you’re using the singular or plural form of “enclosure” correctly depending on the number of materials you attach.

Build Your Best Project Management Resume Next

Congratulations! You’re on the fast track to writing a superb project manager cover letter! But, we gotta ask—is your resume just as cohesive and spectacular? 

In fact, it’s easier to start writing your cover letter once your  project manager resume  is done! That way, all your bullet points are laid out, making it simple to pick the most outstanding achievements to spotlight in your cover letter. 

We’ll help you  make a resume , and you can choose a  modern Word resume template , a  creative Google Docs resume template , or one of our own  resume examples  to edit like the one below. Building from the ground up is daunting, but we’re committed to getting you the right tools to ease the frustration of the job hunt.

IT Project Manager Resume

Need a resume to pair with your IT project manager cover letter?

You can use the same principles we’ve outlined for your cover letter to make a glowing resume, too: Tailor your resume to the job description’s specific skills and key company values. Before you know it, you’ll have hooked a potential employer’s attention—and they won’t forget you anytime soon!

Rely on the project manager job ad to guide your way here. For instance, if the company requires knowledge of project management methodologies like Agile or Lean Six Sigma, try to incorporate this into your cover letter. It also helps to make your career-defining achievement something that was achieved under your leadership, such as restructuring the marketing department or improving customer satisfaction.

Your cover letter gives you a unique chance to highlight why this can be a good thing. Let’s say you’re transitioning from a role where you were part of a team—highlight that you know the day-to-day life of an entry-level employee and that helps you create a project management strategy that aligns with high employee satisfaction and retention. Make sure to lean into other transferable skills, too, such as time management.

Yes! This is a powerful way to prove that you’ve done your homework and that you care about this company in particular. Don’t force it, though; if the company culture or mission doesn’t really resonate with you, try to instead express how your background in project management can bring things like more revenue, efficiency, or customer retention.

Project Manager Cover Letter Example for 2024 (W/ Guide!)

You've moved past the days of managing group projects in school. 

You've always had a knack for leadership, and now you're ready to take it to the next level as a professional project manager. 

But here's the hiccup—you're stuck on your cover letter. 

That blank screen meant to showcase your project management skills and experience, feels like a project you can't quite get off the ground.

Don't worry, we've got you covered.

In this article, we're going to map out your skills in project management, one milestone at a time.

We're going to cover:

• What Makes a Great Project Manager Cover Letter Example
• 5 Steps to Writing the Best Project Manager Cover Letter
• Essential Cover Letter Tips for Project Managers

...and more!

So, let's get this project started.

Project Manager Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Project Manager Cover Letter

You've seen what a killer cover letter looks like. 

Now, you're more than ready to craft your own masterpiece . No need to stress; just follow a few simple steps, and you'll nail it.

Here’s what you need to start with: 

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Kick off your project manager cover letter by getting your contact details up top, just like you would on your resume .

Here's what that entails: 

• Full Name. Your name should be the first thing the hiring manager sees when they look at your cover letter.
• Job Title. Make sure your job title aligns with the job you're aiming for. Hiring managers are swamped with applications for various roles, so being precise about the job you want can only help.
• Email Address. Opt for a straightforward and professional email. Ditch the quirky one you made years ago for something clean and simple. For instance, swap out '[email protected]' for '[email protected]' .
• Phone Number. Double-check that your phone number is correct. If you're applying from another country, include the dial code.
• Location. Your city, followed by the state or country, will do. If the job is remote or you're willing to move, make that clear.
• Relevant Links (optional). Feel free to include any links to professional sites or your LinkedIn profile.

Next, list the hiring manager's contact information :

• Company Name. List the name of the company you're applying to.
• Hiring Manager’s Name. Do a little research to find the name of the hiring manager for the department you're interested in. Check the job ad or the company's website.
• Manager’s Job Title. If the hiring manager is also the head of the department you’re applying for, use that title on your resume.
• Location. State the city and country where the company is based. You can be more specific if you like, but this is usually enough.
• Email Address (optional). If you can find it, include the hiring manager's email.
• Date (optional). You can add the date you wrote the cover letter to make it look even more polished.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've got all your contact information in place, focus on addressing your cover letter the right way . And, by the right way, we mean skip the outdated ‘to whom it may concern.’

Getting the addressee right can set a positive tone for your cover letter.

Start by doing some homework. Look at the job posting, company website, or LinkedIn to locate the hiring manager in charge of project management roles. This will likely help you find their full name and email address. 

When you know their name, go ahead and address them formally. We suggest using "Ms." or "Mr." along with their last name. If you're uncertain about their gender or marital status, using their full name works too. For example:

• Dear Mr. Thompson,
• Dear Jamie Thompson,

If you hit a dead end and can't find details about the hiring manager or the head of the project management department, no worries. You can direct your letter to the department or company at large:

• Dear Project Management Team,
• Dear Project Management Hiring Group,
• Dear Human Resources Team,
• Dear Head of Project Management,

Make sure you avoid the most common cover letter mistakes while you’re writing your own.

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers often spend just a few seconds scanning an application before deciding if it's worth a full read. So, grabbing their attention right away is key to a winning project management cover letter.

Kick off with your name and clearly state why this particular role excites you. Showing you’re passionate about project management or the specific project can make the hiring manager interested in learning more about you.

Doing your homework on the company can also pay off. The better you understand them, the more you can show you'd be a great fit for their culture. This tells the hiring manager you're not just sending out applications at random—you're genuinely interested in this role.

Depending on how seasoned you are, you might also want to start your cover letter by pointing out a significant achievement or skill that makes you ideal for the job.

Keep this paragraph short and sweet. The goal is to spark the hiring manager's interest and prompt them to read the rest of your cover letter in detail.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The core section of your project management cover letter is your chance to delve into what makes you the right pick for the job.

Here's the key: Don't just rehash your resume. This section is your chance to elaborate on your unique skills and know-how. Your task is to convince the hiring manager that you're a cut above the rest. So, expand on any relevant accomplishments you listed on your project manager resume by explaining just how you did them.

Next, align your cover letter with the job ad by discussing particular abilities they're after or precisely how you'll add value to their team. For instance, if the job requires experience with Agile methodologies, focus on that instead of your general management skills.

Knowledge of the company or the industry they're in can also make you stand out. If you're acquainted with the company's projects or methodologies, don't hold back—explain just how you align with their goals or culture.

End on a high note. Show your eagerness for the role and how sure you are that your skills and experience make you the person they need.

If you need more inspiration, check out more of our cover letter examples in this article. 

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Ending your project management cover letter on the right note is like nailing the project deliverables before the deadline.

Make sure your closing remarks keep the hiring manager's interest and don't undermine your previous points. Recap why you're the ideal choice for the project management role or sum up the unique skills that give you an edge.

Next, it's call-to-action time. Encourage the hiring manager to move forward, like arranging an interview, to leave a memorable impact and boost your odds of getting a callback. 

Lastly, cap it off with a polished closing line, followed by your full name. Here's an example:

Feel free to reach out via the given email or phone number to set up an interview. I'm eager to delve into my qualifications in more detail at your convenience.

Best regards,

If "Best regards" feels played out, consider these alternatives:

• Kind regards,
• Yours truly,
• Appreciate your time,

Choose one that aligns well with your style and the job you're applying for.

3 Essential Project Manager Cover Letter Tips

You've got the rundown on what makes a standout cover letter for a project manager. Now, let's dive into some key cover letter tips to put the final touches on yours.

#1. Match Your Resume

A great manager has exceptional presentation skills . 

As such, your cover letter’s style and layout should be in sync with your resume. A mismatch might hint at a lack of attention to detail or presentation skills. 

Ensure your details sit tidily on the page and stick to a consistent font choice. Just as you'd manage project timelines, be mindful of the margins and spacing. And aim for a concise cover letter that fits just right within a single page.

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Want to skip all the hard work?

Check out our cover letter templates . They're designed in close collaboration with global hiring managers, ensuring top-notch industry standards. Best of all, they match the templates our free resume builder has to offer.

Pop in your information, and there you have it—a professional letter that pairs perfectly with your resume. Simple, right?

#2. Mention Skills

Talking about your skills in your project manager cover letter is more than just a checkbox—it's a golden opportunity. When you lay out your skills , you're telling hiring managers what you bring to the table. And let's face it, they want to know what you can do, not just who you are. 

But don't just toss in a random list of skills. Tie them back to why you're the best fit for that job. For example, if the job ad mentions that teamwork is a priority, don't just say you're a "team player." Go further. Explain how you've led teams to consistently complete projects ahead of schedule. That's your ticket.

When you thoughtfully mention skills, it shows you're not just throwing your hat in the ring—you're seriously eyeing the role. It tells hiring managers you've read the job description, understand it, and are ready to hit the ground running. 

#3. Save It to the Right Format

So you've crafted the perfect project manager cover letter—nice!

But before you hit that 'send' button, take a moment to consider the file format. Saving your document the right way might sound like a minor detail, but it can make a world of difference. 

The golden standard is PDF . It keeps your formatting intact, no matter what device the hiring manager uses to read it.

So those bold headlines and bullet points you spent time perfecting? They'll look just as good on a phone as they do on a computer screen.

Now, there's one key exception: if the job ad asks for something else.

Sometimes employers might specify a particular format, like DOC or RTF. In those cases, stick to the instructions. Otherwise, PDF is your best bet for making a professional first impression. It's a simple step, but it shows you're someone who pays attention to the little things—and in project management, those little things often make all the difference.

Key Takeaways

That’s all there is to a project manager cover letter!

Hopefully, you feel inspired to write your own and land that dream job on the horizon.

But before we part ways, let’s recap what we mentioned:

• Addressing your cover letter to the hiring manager can make a great first impression. Do some research on the job ad and company to find out who’s doing the hiring, and greet them by name.
• One of the things hiring managers want to know about is your skills, so tailor them accordingly. Use the job ad as a reference for what they’re looking for, and focus on that.
• Present a gorgeous application by matching your cover letter to your resume. You can make this step easier on yourself by using an online resume and cover builder instead of starting from scratch.
• Once you’re all set, save your cover letter as a PDF. This way, all your formatting will stay intact, no matter what device or software the hiring manager uses to open it.

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Project Manager Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Do you want a project manager cover letter that impresses even the most demanding recruiters? Why don't you try our best tips and examples! Simply follow our guide, packed with classy templates and real-life samples, and make your writing process feel seamless.

In this guide, we teach you all there is to know about writing an excellent project manager cover letter. Keep reading to learn how to:

• Properly format your project manager header & headline
• Personalize the greeting & content of your project manager cover letter
• Craft a compelling project manager cover letter introduction
• Highlight your best skills & accomplishments as a project manager
• Finish your project manager cover letter with a strong conclusion
• Access top resources for job-seeking project managers

1. Properly format your project manager header & headline

The first key step when writing a project manager cover letter is to create a well-formatted header and headline. These elements help give your cover letter structure, as well as provide all the essential information about who you are and what the main focus of your letter is.

Your cover letter header comes first, located in either the top left or center of the document. In your header, you should include:

• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information
• The name & department of the company you are applying to
• The address of the company (this detail is particularly important if the company has more than one location)

Here is an example of a well-formatted project manager header

Jane Doe , Project Manager

(123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/jane-doe

To: Howard Business Solutions Project Development Department 1234 Street Address Chattanooga, TN 37405

Once you have your header in place, the next step is to write an attention-grabbing cover letter headline . Your headline should always include a keyword related to the position, an eye-catching number or trigger word, a powerful adjective or verb, and a promise to the employer that the letter is specifically written for them.

Here is an example of a well-written project manager headline, followed by a brief explanation of its main components

My Top 3 Skills as a Project Manager & How I Will Apply Them for Your Company’s Benefit

Trigger Word/Number: 3 Skills Keyword: Project Manager Adjective/Verb: Top, Apply Promise: Your Company’s Benefit

Still looking for a job?  These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

2. personalize the greeting & content of your project manager cover letter.

When you write a cover letter as a project manager, one of the best ways to make your letter stand out from competing applicants is to personalize the greeting and content.

Personalizing a cover letter requires you to thoroughly research the company you are applying to, looking for key pieces of information such as:

• What the company’s current goals and objectives are
• Any projects the company is currently involved in
• Who at the company is responsible for reviewing applications

Using this last detail, you can create a personalized greeting that addresses this specific person by name. This immediately reveals to the employer that you have taken the time to tailor your cover letter and research the company , showing your excellent attention to detail.

Here are 3 examples of personalized cover letter greetings

• Dear Mr. Jack Green,

Dear Executive Manager Jack Green,

• Dear Mr. Jack Green & the Project Development Team,

3. Craft a compelling project manager cover letter introduction

With your greeting, headline, and header in place, your next key step is to write a compelling project manager cover letter introduction.

In this introduction, make sure to include:

• A brief overview of your professional history (years of experience, specializations, etc.)
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible) — including a mutual acquaintance helps build immediate rapport and trust with an employer. If you do not have a mutual acquaintance, try using LinkedIn to expand your professional network.

Here is an example of a compelling introduction from a project manager’s cover letter

I am a certified project management professional with more than 7 years of experience overseeing IT and software development projects. As your company is a leader in the tech industry, I am beyond thrilled to be considered for this position. My mentor and your company’s IT marketing specialist, Mr. John Doe, reached out to me about this opening and strongly recommended I apply as my skillset is a perfect match for this role.

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4. Highlight your best skills & accomplishments as a project manager

Following your introduction are the remaining body paragraphs of your project manager cover letter. These body paragraphs should dive into more in-depth detail about your best professional skills and accomplishments to help show employers the value you have to offer.

When describing your key skills and accomplishments, ensure that all the information you include is highly relevant, contextual, and quantifiable.

For instance, do not just state that you have strong communication skills — instead, describe how your communication skills have benefited your project management capabilities.

Here are 6 examples of project management skills to include in your cover letter

• Developing project ideas
• Setting deadlines and key performance indicators
• Coordinating and communicating with shareholders
• Budget development
• Performance evaluations
• Creative problem-solving

Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in a project management cover letter

As a project manager at [Former Employer], I was given the task of improving the efficiency and productivity of the project development team. By implementing a new performance evaluation system, I was able to boost productivity by 45% and improve project completion rates by 25%.

5. Finish your project manager cover letter with a strong conclusion

To complete your project manager cover letter effectively, you need a strong conclusion that includes:

• An enthusiastic sentence saying you are looking forward to hearing from them
• An additional sentence stating how and when you can be contacted, as well as when you plan to follow up about your application
• A formal sign-off

Here is an example of an effective project manager cover letter conclusion

If chosen for this position, I will guide your team to success and ensure a high level of quality and productivity for each of your company’s projects. I am eager to speak with you directly and can best be reached any weekday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (123) 456-7890. I look forward to hearing from you and plan to reach out next Tuesday if I have not yet heard back.

[Applicant Name]

If you have ever wondered how a cover letter differs from a resume,  this article will tell you everything about the key differences between the two .

6. Top resources for job-seeking project managers

Congratulations, now you know how to craft the perfect cover letter! But this alone won’t be enough to secure your dream job. You also need to know where to look for job opportunities. We've gathered a list of resources that might help you with this: 

• Industry-specific job boards: Your first steps may lead to job boards like Project Manager Jobs , PMjobs , or PMI Jobs that are especially curated to cater for project managers of all industries.
• General job boards: Then you can try searching through engines that aggregate a broad spectrum of job postings. For example: Indeed, Glassdoor , ZipRecruiter , or SimplyHired . 
• LinkedIn : A job-seekers staple! Use LinkedIn to discover project management opportunities, connect with industry professionals, and learn about companies.
• Professional associations: Associations like the Project Management Institute (PMI), the Association for Project Management (APM), or the International Project Management Association (IPMA) can bring you job listings, networking opportunities, training programmes, and access to specialized publications. 
• Continuous learning: Working as a project manager means that you need to learn constantly. To upskill and expand your knowledge, consider taking on new courses, such as those offered by Coursera , edX , LinkedIn Learning , or Udemy . 
• Specialized publications: To keep up with industry news, innovations, trends, and methodologies, consider reading media like “ Project Management Journal ,” “ Project Manager Today ,” and “ Project Times .”

Final reminder: No matter how many job postings you end up responding to, always remember to custom tailor each and every single cover letter you send. Good luck with your job search!

Project Manager Cover Letter FAQ

Lead with your most impressive achievements. Show how you've driven success in past projects. For example, you might talk about a project you managed that was delivered on time and under budget. You can then mention which particular skills and methods you've utilized.

First of all, avoid presenting a summary of your resume. Use this opportunity to offer insights into how you work. And, make sure to custom tailor your cover letter to match the description in the job posting. Also, don't neglect the basics: spelling errors, typos, incorrect company details, and generic phrases can all harm your chances.

That's okay. Focus on the intersection between what they want and what you have. You can still draw on transferable skills from your previous roles. This might include problem-solving, team leadership, or budget management. Use your cover letter as an opportunity to highlight your best skills and qualities.

Absolutely! Certifications signify dedication to your profession and vouch for a certain skill level. Also, this may be just the thing to make you stand out from the other applicants. Include these in either your introduction or the closing paragraph of your letter for maximum impact. 

One page is ideal for a cover letter. Anything longer might discourage the recruiters from even paying attention to your application in the first place. Keep your cover letter succinct but impactful by sharing a few key achievements, showcasing relevant skills, and expressing enthusiasm for the role.

Nikoleta Kuhejda

A journalist by trade, a writer by fate. Nikoleta went from writing for media outlets to exploring the world of content creation with Kickresume and helping people get closer to the job of their dreams. Her insights and career guides have been published by The Female Lead , College Recruiter , and ISIC, among others. When she’s not writing or (enthusiastically) pestering people with questions, you can find her traveling or sipping on a cup of coffee.

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How to Write an Effective Project Management Cover Letter and Resume

A project manager plans, organizes, and directs the execution of company projects while ensuring they satisfy set requirements. If you are looking to get a job in project management, you’ll need a strong cover letter to go along with your resume.

Your project manager cover letter is your first opportunity to impress any hiring manager. It gives you the chance to show your enthusiasm for the role and highlight accomplishments from previous roles that demonstrate you are the best fit for the job. In this article, you will find a guide to writing the perfect cover letter to help you land your dream role.

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Project management cover letter guide.

A project management cover letter plays a vital role in a job application. It complements your resume, which lists your education and work experience, and gives you a chance to introduce yourself without being physically present. An effective cover letter conveys your personality and helps convince recruiters you are the ideal candidate for the job.

Why Does Your Project Manager Cover Letter Matter? 

Project Management is a competitive field. The Project Management Institute expects to have at least 22 million new project management job openings by 2027. The role is versatile because it can serve in a wide variety of industries both within and outside tech.

Your project management cover letter is not just any formal letter but an opportunity to impress the hiring manager. It is your chance to advertise your achievements and tell your employer that you have the technical expertise and experience that will make you a valuable addition to their team.

A compelling cover letter shows your hiring manager that you took the time to understand the team’s needs and job requirements. It allows you to establish a clear link between your knowledge and skills and the team’s needs. It is your opportunity to show how enthusiastic you are about the new role and give the hiring manager a glimpse into your personality and work ethic.

Essential Components of Your Project Manager Cover Letter

By now, you already know that your cover letter is an avenue to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications. Though the details of the letter depend on the company and the job role, there are some standard elements you should include.

• Heading. The heading of the cover letter contains your name and contact information. You can also share your website and LinkedIn details. 
• Greetings. If you want your cover letter to hit the right notes, you have to avoid generic terms like “to whom it may concern” or “dear hiring manager.” Instead, look for the hiring manager’s name and use it instead. This gives your letter a personal touch and shows your interest and resourcefulness. 
• Introduction. Your introduction should be engaging, show enthusiasm, and give the reader a glimpse of your personality and interest in the role. Make sure you capture the attention of the reader and convince them to keep going.
• Qualifications and skills. Your next paragraph should delve into your qualifications and relevant skills. Don’t list your previous work experiences or education here, as that will be included in your resume. Instead, focus on your strengths and speak of the ways you had a positive impact in a previous role or two. 
• Your reasons for applying. At this point, you want to describe why you want to join the team. Be sure to do your homework and research the company culture and the role, so you can allude to them directly and highlight the reasons why you’d be a good fit.
• Closing . Use this part to reiterate your passion and the value you bring, then add a call to action that would prompt the interviewer to invite you for the next stage of the job selection process. Share appreciation for their time spent reading your letter.

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Project Manager Cover Letter

As you write your cover letter for project manager roles, your intention should be to convince the hiring manager that you are the best candidate for the job. Here are some expert tips to help you write an effective cover letter .

• Highlight your top project manager skills. Your cover letter should highlight your strengths. Make sure you understand the primary project management skills , such as strong leadership skills and communication skills, and choose the ones that fit your profile best. For instance, highlight your cost management and organizational skills by showing scenarios where you prepared budgets and expenditures that had a positive impact on your organization. 
• Show off your achievements with hard numbers. Hiring managers will look for someone efficient in directing, planning, and monitoring critical projects, and they’ll want proof. In your cover letter, highlight your expertise in these areas and use numbers to show your results. This type of hard evidence will surely help you stand out.
• Emphasize your passion for the role. Make sure to explain why you are passionate about project management. Whether you love solving problems, conducting system audits, or identifying gaps in procedures and strategies, make sure to convey your commitment to the role.
• Go straight to the point. Be concise about what you want and how you can solve the employer’s needs. User shorter, more impactful sentences.
• Make your cover letter about the company. Whatever skill or qualification you are highlighting, ensure to make the cover letter about the company. Highlight project management skills and achievements that are relevant to the role. Indicate how your professional background can help them with their client objectives.

Project Manager Cover Letter Example

Every cover letter is unique because every candidate’s knowledge, skills, and professional experience varies. However, consulting project manager cover letter samples can provide a clear idea of what your letter should look like. Here is a project manager cover letter template to help you.

Project Manager Cover Letter Sample

[Your name]

[Your email]

[Your phone number]

[Your LinkedIn profile]

Dear [Name of recruiting manager],

[Department]

[Company Name]

I came across this job opening from the job board at Indeed and was instantly excited because this job fits perfectly with my skills and technical expertise. I am sure my communication, risk management, and project planning skills would be a great fit for this role.

Over the last five years of my career, I worked as the project manager at Jenkinson Enterprises. During that period, I employed project management software and Agile methodologies to execute a wide range of projects per the company’s needs. I earned a sterling reputation for utilizing my project management expertise to deliver successful projects.

I believe my experience working in project management roles would be beneficial to Jenkinson Enterprises. I admire your company culture, commitment, and desire to innovate technological systems. 

Thank you for your consideration. I am looking forward to hearing back from you and preparing for my interview. Feel free to check out my portfolio linked above.

Best Regards,

Project Management Resume Guide

Along with your cover letter, you’ll also need a well-crafted resume to showcase your eligibility for project manager jobs. Your project manager resume highlights your skills, experience, academic background, and achievements. It can be challenging to summarize all your industry expertise and achievements all in one page. Hopefully, our guide will make it easier for you.

Why Does Your Project Manager Resume Matter?

A project manager takes on a lot of responsibilities in an organization. To land this type of role, you need to demonstrate that you have the professional background, credentials, and experience necessary to succeed. A strong resume that highlights the right information can lead to an interview and take you one step closer to landing your dream project management job.

Essential Components of Your Project Manager Resume

If you want your project management resume to be engaging enough to impress your potential employer, it must have some specific components to make it effective. Below are some standard features you should always include.

• Personal Information. This part of the resume contains your name, job title, LinkedIn details, email, phone number, and other important information.
• Career Summary. Think of this part as your one-minute sales pitch to describe who you are and why you think you are the right fit. This is focused on your skills, knowledge, and experience.
• Educational Background. This section has details about your education and training. Make sure to only list the degrees or educational experiences that are relevant to the job.
• Certifications. Just after you’ve described your educational background, you should also highlight relevant certifications and training that you may have.
• Work Experience. This section highlights your professional background and project management experience and the impact you made on the teams and projects you’ve worked for.
• Skills . This section highlights your hard and soft skills. Showcase your areas of expertise relevant to the project manager role, such as agile methodology and lean project management.

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Project Manager Resume

Project managers are regarded as the backbone of organizations because their skills are valuable to a project’s success. This is why hiring managers always look to hire only the best by evaluating training, certifications, industry expertise, and key skills. Some of the ways you can get the attention of hiring managers are listed below.

• Highlight keywords relevant to your role . Recruiters often use an applicant tracking system that scans resumes and determines the right ones for the recruiter. The system uses keywords to select the right resumes. Be sure to read the job description and add notable keywords to your resume.
• Showcase your metrics and accomplishments . Project management is a role that involves a lot of quantifiable responsibilities. This means you can let your work speak for itself by including hard facts. An example of this could be, “designed accelerated program roadmap saving 30 percent of expenditures and delivering results in three months.”
• Choose the right layout . Your resume must be well designed and arranged in a way that allows the recruiter to see the essential details first. Use the chronological format to enable you to place your work history and educational background strategically.
• Feature your technical skills and industry expertise . Project managers use a lot of tools and techniques to reach each crucial project milestone and complete complex projects. Make sure to feature your expertise with tools like Asana, Scrum, Waterfall, Microsoft Project, and Trello. If you have completed any specialized training and seminars, include it here to show off your wide range of experience in project management.
• Make sure to proofread . Once you’re done preparing your resume, make sure you thoroughly check it for any typos or errors. Even better, have a friend or a professional review it to make sure there are no mistakes.

Project Manager Resume Examples

Are you getting ready to write? Below is a sample of a specific part of a resume and a template to help guide your writing process. Whether you’re hoping to start out in a junior project manager role or you’re applying for senior project manager jobs, a well-crafted resume can display you are the best-suited candidate.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

Project Manager Resume Sample: The Professional Summary Section

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Astute project manager with over five years of years working in a project managerial role at Jenkinson Enterprise. Seeking a position where I can apply my technical expertise to create innovative technological solutions.

Sample Project Manager Resume Template

[Phone Number]

[Summary of your career goals for employment, where you have been and hope to go in your career]

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

[Job title, Company]

[Month, Year – Month, Year]

[Job Description]

• [Include as many relevant professional experiences as possible]

[Name of College]

[Honors] 

[Include skills pertinent to the job role]

ACHIEVEMENTS

[Volunteer]

[Languages]

Project Manager Resume Template Resources

• BeamJobs . Here you can find several professional cover letter templates to help you craft your own. These templates have been designed with various levels of expertise.
• Enhancv . In a few clicks, you can build your project manager resume using this example. These templates will help you make the right decisions in crafting your resume.
• Novoresume . This is a professional resume builder that can help you properly structure your resume for project management roles. All you need to do is input your skills, contact details, and it will walk you through the rest.

Importance of a Project Manager Cover Letter and Resume

A project management cover letter is an opportunity to impress a prospective employer and help them get a first impression of your personality and skill set. It is the first document the hiring manager sees during the hiring process and, if written well, allows you to stand out from the application pool. On the other hand, your resume offers a deeper look into your education, work experience, and skills.

Project Manager Cover Letter and Resume FAQ

A great project management cover letter is one that carefully highlights your strengths, skills, achievements, and expertise. It also conveys your enthusiasm for the role. It is a letter that your hiring manager is immediately impressed with as soon as they read it.

Hiring managers usually prefer cover letters that are concise and that list clear achievements. Hence, make sure to keep things to the point and focus on measurable successes.

A project manager is responsible for planning and directing all aspects of a project. They are accountable for meeting the goals and objectives of the project and completing it within the specified time and budget. The project manager is responsible for organizing tasks, resources, and people to implement the project efficiently. 

A project manager must have specific skills and experience in relevant projects and tasks. The minimum requirements for a project management position are at least three years of experience in any related role, communication and interpersonal skills, and a PMP certification.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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How To Write a Cover Letter With Examples

Cover letters can help differentiate you from other job applicants and be the determining factor of landing your dream job. By taking the time to craft a custom cover letter, a single sheet of paper can help communicate all the human elements that a resume may fall short of capturing about yourself. 

But what do employers and recruiters have to say about how to write a cover letter? What are the best tips they have to offer for graduate students who are writing a cover letter?

We asked 11 employers for their best cover letter tips. Here is what they had to share.

Let it Set the Stage

In many ways, cover letters should provide background information and context to your resume, while simultaneously addressing how that resume addresses the specific requirements of the job opportunity. The cover letter is your opportunity to "set the stage" and to convince the hiring manager why your specific set of skills, experiences and interests will provide value to their team and its objectives.

Andrew Horrigan '11 BSBA (Management Information Systems), Product Manager at Cisco

Research the Hiring Manager

If possible, find out who the hiring manager is and look them up on LinkedIn. Do your research on the company you're applying for. What's their mission statement and how do they portray their company culture? Hopefully what you're looking for in a job is reflected by those things. Make sure the hiring manager knows that and understands who you are and what drives you. A resume is often about as robotic as things can be. Make sure your cover letter is the opposite—personalize it and let yourself shine through.

Joshua Schlag ’05 BS (Computer Science) ’11 MBA, Digital Marketing Manager at Pyramid Analytics

Utilize Career Development Resources

The University of Arizona and Eller College of Management go to great lengths to make sure students are prepared for their impending career journey. Because cover letters are so important to getting your foot in the door, there are several career development resources online and on campus to take advantage of. The university’s cover letter builder serves as a nice template to get started. And of course, it never hurts to make an appointment with an Eller Career Coach through eSMS to have a professional review your letter before submission. 

Brett Farmiloe, ’06 BSBA (Accounting), Founder, Featured

Discover Past Samples of the Position

Do your research on the company and personalize your cover letter to the role for which you are applying. Don't be afraid to Google, "How to write a good cover letter for X position." Seriously, it helps! There is so much information out there from various perspectives—applicants, hiring managers, etc. Most importantly be yourself and let your personality come through. And don't forget to spell check!

Mariam Nikola '17 MS MIS, Consultant at Point B

Highlight Your Soft Skills

When writing a professional cover letter, there are a couple things you can do to set yourself apart from the pack. First, make sure you tailor your letter to the specific position you are applying for. This should not be a general, "one size fits all" letter—be sure to discuss specific details surrounding the role or the company itself. Secondly, this is an opportunity for you to show a little bit of your personality. Obviously, you want to remain professional, but this is a great time to highlight some of your soft skills that might not be fully conveyed through your resume.  

Brian Ellis ’17 BSBA (Management), Staffing Manager at Randstad Office and Administrative Professionals

Fill in the “Why” Gaps

As a talent advisor, I review a lot of applicants and agree that a cover letter can be a great way to stand apart, if it is done correctly. A great cover letter for me covers the ‘why’ that I cannot understand from just a resume alone. It should clearly state why you are interested in the role, what your goals are for utilizing your graduate degree (if recently graduated) and explain any career pivots reflected on your resume. If you answer those questions in a direct, concise manner it will add value to your application.

Monica Larson , ’11 BSBA (Marketing) ‘20 MBA, Talent Advisor

Tell Your Story

A cover letter is your opportunity to tell your story—tying your experience and personal interests into why you want a position and why you are the best candidate for it. Paint the picture of your journey and what about the position excites you personally and professionally. Similar to your resume, keep it short and sweet. No need to repeat what’s already on your resume. Recruiters and hiring managers don’t have time to comb through a novel, so you need to engage them with as few words as possible while also grabbing their attention.

Kelly Castoro, ’06 BA (Spanish, Portuguese), Project Manager at Squarespace

Tailor Each Cover Letter to the Position You Are Applying

Be sure to research the role and customize your cover letter for each position, relating your experience to the particular role you are applying for. Personalization is key—research who you are sending the cover letter to and address the letter to them directly. End your letter with a call to action, stating you will follow up by phone or email if you haven’t heard from anyone. Follow ups are very important! 

Jessica Rosenzweig, ’15 BSBA (Business Management), Account Manager at PeopleWare Staffing

Communicate Bankability and Personality 

Your cover letter answers two crucial questions; are you bankable and are you someone the company will enjoy working with? Communicate bankability with your knowledge of the company, industry and why your skills, capabilities and interests are a great fit. Share your passion for their mission, culture, brand—whatever excites you about becoming a member of their team.  

When conveyed through a concise, well-formulated, well-worded cover letter, you demonstrate the ability to write an effective business case—communicating that you are a ready professional and worthy teammate who will hit the ground running.

Theresa L Garcia, ’83 BSBA (Human Resources), Senior Change Management and Organization Capability Consultant at Boeing

Keep it Concise but Compelling

A cover letter is your chance to speak directly to the hiring team and tell them why you are not only the best match for the position for which you are applying but also give them additional insight into yourself as an individual that is less visible from your experience.

A great cover letter should be attention grabbing and touch upon the qualities that make you stand out from others in the applicant pool, highlight both your recent and most distinguished accomplishments and drive home why you are the right person for the job. Professionalism is always important, but don’t be hesitant to put your voice into the letter to let your personality shine through. Research the company, understand where they currently are, where they are going and show why you are the right person to get them from point A to point B. Recruiters spend a lot of time reviewing applicants and making yourself stand apart from the crowd is key. Keep it concise but compelling!

Matt Reineberg, ’14 BSBA (Marketing), Senior Talent Acquisition Sourcer at Cox Enterprises

Highlight the “Why”

Why are you applying to this company? Why do you want this position? Your cover letter should aim to answer the why behind applying for the job. Conveying an interest and excitement for working specifically for this job at this company, rather than a desire to get any job anywhere that will give you money, can go a long way. Show the company that they should hire you and your passion over someone that might have the skills needed for the job, but doesn’t care about the work as much as you do. 

Ryan Nouis, Trupath 

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Construction Project Manager Resume Examples 2024

Home Blog Project Management Construction Project Manager Resume Examples 2024

In an increasingly fierce construction industry, which is set to experience a shift in its global market value, growing from USD 11.9 Trillion to USD 17.2 Trillion, an accurate resume is your gateway to well-paid opportunities. Whether you’re looking to prepare an entry-level construction Manager resume or hoping to find insights into framing an impactful construction Project Manager CV, exploring the components of a strong resume is the first step toward your dream job.

A suitable resume of a highly-skilled Project Manager in construction is supposed to exhibit the individual’s capacity to assess and manage all stages of construction. Right from highlighting job-related skills to listing interpersonal capabilities, the best construction Project Manager resume should comprehensively explore your strengths, reflecting your significance as an ideal match for the role.

If you’re someone seeking ideas on building a Project Manager resume, this blog can be your ultimate guide. From exploring construction Project Manager resume examples to introducing you to the significance of including Project Management Courses in your resume, I will help you navigate each aspect of your construction Manager CV.

So, let’s get started!

Resume Format

Establishing a well-thought-out construction project manager resume structure/template is one of the key factors in letting hiring managers know about your job skills and experiences. Here's a detailed guide to navigate the right construction Project Manager description for resume:

1. Work Experience Section

• Write down the introduction of your work history and create a list of your recent occupations in reverse chronological order.
• Define years, places, and positions, as well as the full corporate name of related entities.
• Explain in detail your role, experience, and achievements in your previous venture.
• Emphasize your work with construction teams and project delivery, as well as deadlines and budget management.
• Use assertive action verbs to define your achievements and accountabilities, such as "organized," "executed," "coordinated," "led," "achieved," etc.

For example:

“A construction project manager with eight years of experience in large build-outs and commercial construction projects worth between $10 million to $25 million. Excellent track record of hiring and managing a diverse construction staff, negotiating the contracts of subcontractors, and discovering cost-saving opportunities. Skilled in maintaining compliance with building codes, OSHA safety, and zoning terms.”

What if You Don’t Have Work Experience?

If you have limited or no prior work experience in construction project management, ensure that you add details about your internships, volunteering, or freelance projects that reflect your skills and knowledge. Highlight more transferable skills like leadership, analytical abilities, problem-solving, communication, and project management skills that have been enhanced beyond the fieldwork.

“A proactive and goal-oriented person with a B.Sc. degree in civil engineering who is passionate about joining a construction project management team in an entry-level position. Displays a good level of problem-solving skills, communication skills, and awareness of details through consistent participation across diverse academic endeavors, internships, boot camps, as well as extracurricular activities.”

2. Contact Information

In order for recruiters to reach out to you conveniently, do not forget to put your accurate contact information, including a professional email address, contact number, and LinkedIn profile, in the URL form.

3. Add Your Education

Just how impactful resume examples for project managers in construction ensure listing educational backdrop, but make sure you also follow a similar approach. Besides adding details about your bachelor’s and master’s degrees, be sure to mention internships and certificates after completing courses like PRINCE2 Training online or PMP Training, which works as an added advantage. Cite any other academic accomplishments, recognition, or distinctions as well.

For Example:

“M.A. in Construction Project Management

Boston State University

• Relevant Courses: Advanced Construction Cost Estimation and Value Engineering, Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Construction, Sustainable Construction Practices, Construction Quality Management, etc.

4. Include Construction Project Manager Skills Tailored to the Job

Sample resumes for construction Project Managers are often framed, keeping the job description under consideration. Therefore, tailor your skill segment to the exact requirements of the job description, emphasizing the relevant competencies and qualifications related to the employer`s demand.

Some of the skills that you can list include:

• AutoCAD Blueprint reading
• Budget management  
• Building codes
• Capital projects           
• Commercial Construction

5. Summary or Objective

A construction Project Manager resume summary is most probably one of the first things that a recruiter will notice about your resume. In order to be precise and set the tone right, write a brief summary or a statement of purpose that will indicate your objectives, background, and the skillset that you wish to bring to the prospective organization.

Customize this section to the job you are applying for. Elaborate on the occurrences where you exhibited your skills and abilities meeting the requirements of the employer.

“Aspiring construction project management professional motivated to apply academic knowledge to practical scenarios, ensuring project success and personal growth within the industry.”

7. Use Action Words to Strengthen your resume 

Action words, also called power verbs, are essential to be included in your CV or resume cover letter for the construction Project Manager role if you're hoping to quickly get the attention of the recruiters. I believe these words convey a sense of action, an authority that only comes with confidence, experience, and capability.

Some of the action words that you can use in your resume include:

• Spearheaded
• Facilitated
• Collaborated

7. Add Extra Sections to Your Resume

While the provided sections above usually include free resume templates for the Construction Project Manager role, to customize your resume further, you can always include additional sections highlighting your capabilities and skill set. Contemplate other sections that align with your previous work background, professional highlights, and leadership experience.

On the other hand, for a more detailed insight into your personality, here are some of the sections you can include as your construction Project Manager resume bullet points

• Awards & Certifications:  Awards, certifications, and additional affiliations show your active nature towards your role, a quality every organization is on the lookout for.
• Languages:  Fluency in multiple languages is not a common trait. Hence, if you have this quality, make sure to highlight it.
• Interests and Hobbies:  Hobbies and interests act as a window to any individual’s personality. List some of your interests in your resume and let your recruiters understand the type of person you are. You might even get a chance to strike up a candid conversation with the panel if your interests match!

8. Write a Construction Project Manager Cover Letter

As you explore an ideal example of a construction Project Manager resume, remember to work on a strong cover letter. Create a customized cover letter on the basis of your resume. Let it feature your motivation, enthusiasm, and free will as they are.

You can also take the cover letter to demonstrate some incidents from your resume that show your strengths and emphasize that you are indispensable in the position. Here’s a cover letter and resume sample for the construction Project Manager role.

“Dear Mr. Walter,

I am eager to convey my enthusiasm for the Construction Project Manager position available at Summit Builders Group. With nine years of robust experience in the commercial construction sector, I bring a proven track record of consistently delivering exceptional outcomes.

The well-acknowledged image of Summit Builders Group in accomplishing superior quality projects inspires me greatly to seek a career under its esteemed wings. I am positive that my knowledge fits perfectly into your goals, and together, we can accomplish the mission this organization continues to perceive as its driving factor.

During my last position as the Manager of Construction Projects at Pinnacle Construction Solutions, I supervised the completion of several building projects whose estimated costs have exceeded $50 million. At all times, my determination to accomplish quality within budget and timelines led to those projects' completion before schedule, in line with set standards of quality and safety. The main part of my task included successfully managing 30 contractors while developing an atmosphere of open communication, cooperation, and coordination among all participants.

I believe that Summit Builders Group's commitment to excellence, innovation, and integrity closely aligns with my own values and professional ethos, which eventually led me to apply for this role. I am confident that my skills, experience, and dedication make me a strong candidate for this role, and I am eager to bring my talents to your esteemed team.

Thank you for your consideration. I am looking forward to contributing my skills to the growth and continued success of Summit Builders.

Shirley Vito”

Best Practices to Make Your Resume Easy to Scan

To ensure your resume is easy to scan and captures the attention of hiring managers, follow these best practices:

1. Quantify Achievements: Quantify your skills with numbers and percentages. This illustrates where "Managed a team of employees" is replaced by "Managed a team of 10 full-time employees".

2. Keywords: Resonate the resume to the job description you seek by inserting the most appropriate keywords and phrases. This, therefore, raises the probability of being monitored by applicant tracking systems (ATS) and human recruiters.

4. Use a Professional Font:  Try a professional typeface like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. The readability of the content should not be sacrificed for fancy, decorative fonts; therefore, difficult-to-read fonts must be avoided.

5. Reverse Chronological Order: Follow a reverse chronological order while listing your academic and professional endeavors. This way, recruiters are first provided with your most current and relative experience.

6. Proofread: Proofread your resume word by word to eliminate potential spelling and grammar mistakes. One major slip-up by you will indicate your resume as unprofessional, which may ruin your chances even before any recruiters look into your application.

Follow this quick table of do’s and don’ts to claim finesse in your resume-making skills!

Construction Project Manager Resume Example/Sample

Entry level construction project manager template - download here, senior construction project manager resume  template - download here, top 10 skills for a construction project manager resume.

Despite having proficiency in high-paying, in-demand skills, lousy work on your resume can lead you to miss out on your dream opportunity. Ensure construction Project Manager resume skills are all listed based on their significance and relevance to the role.

Allow me to share the top ten skills you can include in your construction project manager resume.

1. Project Planning and Execution:  Successful project planning and management skills, including project management, budgeting, and timeline management.

2. Team Leadership and Management: Capacity to lead and inspire the effective group of construction employees formed through the establishment of mutual understanding, thereby entailing high productivity.

3. Budgeting and Cost Control:  Understanding budget management, keeping records of expenditures, and implementing cost-cutting strategies to improve and optimize the utilization of project financial resources.

4. Risk Management: The knowledge of recognizing potential hazards and the capability to create the right strategies to avoid interruptions in the work to prevent the problems from escalating.

5. Contract Negotiation: Proven track record in negotiating contracts with subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers that result in favorable terms and greater project outcomes.

6. Communication Skills: Solid verbal and written communication skills that will help deliver the tasks assigned, cooperate with all the people involved, and take immediate action when a problem occurs.

7. Problem-Solving:  Proficiency in analyzing multilayered problems and implementing the design of innovative solutions for project management obstacles that may arise.

8. Schedule Management: Skill to design and follow up on project schedules, making sure all the tasks take place on time and project goals are met through the achievement of the milestones as planned.

9. Quality Assurance and Compliance:  Pledge to improve quality standards and adhere to regulatory necessities and industry best practices throughout the project.

10. Construction Safety Regulations: Equipped with knowledge of construction safety rules and procedures and individual project-based safety norms.

Showcasing the performance of these duties on a construction project management resume proves that you can confidently run construction projects professionally towards fulfilling their service goals, keeping budgets moving, along with other timelines and quality standards. Hence, ensure that these aspects are incorporated into your resume.

When applying for a construction Project Manager job in 2024, applicants should take a holistic approach to showcase what gives them an edge in their work. Using the specified format, with the relevant abilities and practicing the most effective strategies, you can make your application stand a better chance of securing the position you seek in the difficult market. If you lack ample experience, I suggest you let KnowledgeHut's best Project Management trainin g programs take care of your skill set, helping you strengthen your resume in the long run!

Frequently Asked Questions

Construction Project Managers should avoid common resume mistakes, such as creating overly long resumes, being vague, ignoring keywords, having grammatical errors, and failing to tailor the resume to each job application.

To highlight projects on their resumes, construction Project Managers can create dedicated Professional/ Project Highlights, where they provide key details such as project scope, budget, duration, and their role and responsibilities. By quantifying achievements, using action words, and showcasing diverse projects, they can effectively demonstrate their project management skills and experience to potential employers.

Certifications are important for a construction project manager's resume as they demonstrate expertise, enhance qualifications, and add to your credibility. Examples of relevant certifications include Project Management Professional (PMP), Construction Management Association of America (CMAA), LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Kevin D.Davis

Kevin D. Davis is a seasoned and results-driven Program/Project Management Professional with a Master's Certificate in Advanced Project Management. With expertise in leading multi-million dollar projects, strategic planning, and sales operations, Kevin excels in maximizing solutions and building business cases. He possesses a deep understanding of methodologies such as PMBOK, Lean Six Sigma, and TQM to achieve business/technology alignment. With over 100 instructional training sessions and extensive experience as a PMP Exam Prep Instructor at KnowledgeHut, Kevin has a proven track record in project management training and consulting. His expertise has helped in driving successful project outcomes and fostering organizational growth.

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