A cover letter is a short, one-page document that goes with a resume when someone applies for a job.
It introduces the applicant to the employer, highlights important skills, and explains why they are a good fit for the role.
Unlike a resume, a cover letter gives a chance to show personality and talk more about experience and goals.
Many employers expect a cover letter along with a resume.
This letter can help an applicant stand out by focusing on their most relevant strengths and showing real interest in the job.
Writing a clear and focused letter can make a big difference in getting noticed during the hiring process.
A well-written cover letter adds a personal touch and can make a job application feel more complete.
To learn more about what to include, see this helpful guide on what is a cover letter.
What Is a Cover Letter For a Resume?
A cover letter is a short document that introduces an applicant to a potential employer.
It highlights experiences and skills, and explains why the applicant is a good fit for the job.
Purpose and Importance
A cover letter gives job seekers a way to share more about who they are beyond the facts listed in their resume.
It acts as a personal statement that can show interest in a specific job or company.
Employers often use cover letters to judge if someone has put effort into their application.
A thoughtful letter can help an applicant stand out in a large pool.
It can explain gaps in work history, highlight special skills, or show how past experiences fit the new role.
Writing a strong cover letter also shows good communication skills.
A clear, well-organized cover letter makes a positive first impression on hiring managers.
For more details, visit this page about what to include in a cover letter.
Difference Between a Resume and Cover Letter
A resume is a list of facts.
It includes job history, education, skills, and basic contact information in a bullet-point or table format.
The resume is usually organized by sections, making it easy for employers to scan.
In contrast, a cover letter uses full paragraphs.
It explains why the applicant is interested in the job and how their skills and experiences match the position.
The cover letter complements the resume by providing context to those facts and telling the employer more about the person behind the application.
While a resume stays the same for most applications, each cover letter should be unique.
The letter can address the company’s needs or show knowledge about the organization’s goals.
Learn more about the difference between a resume and a cover letter.
Role in the Job Application Process
During a job search, the cover letter is often the first part of the application the employer reads.
It can set the tone for the rest of the process and influence whether the resume is reviewed closely.
A strong cover letter connects the applicant’s background to the specific job description.
It can address the hiring manager by name, show knowledge of the company, and explain why the applicant wants this role.
Example 1: Marketing Associate Cover Letter
Emily Nwosu
emilynwosu@email.com
(555) 987-6543
Lagos, Nigeria
May 12, 2025
Hiring Manager
Creative Hive Ltd.
London, UK
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Associate position at Creative Hive. With over two years of experience managing digital campaigns and a strong foundation in SEO and content marketing, I am confident I can add value to your team.
In my current role at Sparkle Digital, I helped grow website traffic by 45% in six months through targeted content strategies and social media engagement. I’ve managed cross-functional teams on product launches and routinely use tools like HubSpot, Canva, and Google Analytics to measure performance.
What excites me most about Creative Hive is your focus on bold storytelling and data-driven strategy. I’d love the opportunity to bring my creative thinking and analytical mindset to your next campaign.
Thank you for considering my application. My resume is attached, and I welcome the chance to discuss how I can contribute to your marketing team.
Sincerely,
Emily Nwosu
Example 2: IT Project Manager Cover Letter
David Benson
davidbenson@email.com
(555) 444-3322
Dallas, TX
May 12, 2025
Hiring Team
TechNova Solutions
Austin, TX
Dear Hiring Team,
I am excited to apply for the IT Project Manager position at TechNova Solutions. With over six years of experience managing cross-functional teams on cloud migration, software deployment, and security integration projects, I bring both technical insight and strategic leadership to every initiative.
At Cardinal Health, I led a multi-phase Salesforce implementation for a newly acquired business unit, delivering the project under budget and two weeks ahead of schedule. I’m fluent in Agile, JIRA, and SDLC methodologies, and I’ve worked closely with stakeholders, engineers, and compliance teams to meet critical deadlines.
TechNova’s mission to build scalable enterprise tools aligns with my passion for creating high-impact systems. I’d love the opportunity to contribute to your roadmap and help accelerate delivery across your platforms.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please find my resume attached. I look forward to the opportunity to speak further.
Best regards,
David Benson
Some employers even ask for a cover letter to test attention to detail and writing skills.
A cover letter gives the job seeker a chance to explain their interest in the role and their value to the team.
It is an important part of making a strong first impression during the application process.
Key Components of a Cover Letter
A strong cover letter follows a clear structure.
Each part serves its own purpose, guiding the reader from the greeting to the closing statement.
Salutation and Contact Information
The cover letter begins with the writer’s contact information at the top.
This includes their full name, phone number, email address, and sometimes their mailing address.
After the sender’s details, the date and the employer’s contact information appear on the page.
A professional greeting comes next.
Using “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],” is best if the name is known.
If not, “Dear Hiring Manager,” is also acceptable.
This section sets the tone and shows attention to detail.
Making sure names and titles are correct is important because it signals respect and professionalism.
For more about this, Indeed explains the parts of a cover letter.
Body Paragraphs Structure
The body paragraphs form the main text of the cover letter.
The opening paragraph should clearly state the job being applied for and show why the applicant is interested.
Mentioning where the job was found can also help.
The middle paragraph(s) highlight skills, experience, and achievements most relevant to the job description.
Candidates should focus on matching their qualifications to the needs of the employer.
Adding specific examples or data can help make claims about skills and experience more convincing.
The connection between the candidate’s background and the position should be direct and relevant.
Writing in a clear way helps the reader quickly see how the applicant fits the job.
Tailoring each letter to the job and company makes a stronger impact, as seen in this guide on effective cover letters.
Closing Paragraph and Call to Action
The closing paragraph wraps up the letter and encourages the employer to take the next step.
A good closing restates interest in the job and thanks the reader for their time.
Including a simple call to action is important.
For example, suggest discussing qualifications further in an interview.
Expressing hope for a response can show enthusiasm without sounding pushy.
End with a formal sign-off such as “Sincerely,” followed by the applicant’s full name.
A neat and polite finish leaves a positive impression, according to advice on what to include in a cover letter.
Essential Content to Include
A strong cover letter helps job seekers stand out by showcasing their skills, education, and genuine interest in the position.
Each section should clearly show why the applicant is the right fit and provide specific details.
Highlighting Relevant Skills and Experiences
Employers want to see how a candidate’s skills match the position.
The best cover letters pull words and phrases directly from the job description.
This helps show the writer has what the company is looking for.
Listing specific skills and giving short examples helps prove ability.
For example, mentioning teamwork, then explaining a time collaborating to finish a project, shows both skill and experience.
A simple table like the one below can help make key points clear:
| Skill | Relevant Experience |
|---|---|
| Communication | Led group presentations at school |
| Data Analysis | Analyzed sales data in part-time job |
| Customer Service | Assisted customers at retail store |
Being clear and direct is better than making vague claims about abilities.
Each skill listed should connect directly to an experience when possible.
Showcasing Qualifications and Education
A cover letter should highlight degrees, certifications, and any special training.
For job seekers with work experience, this is a good place to describe how their education relates to the role.
When writing about education, focus on parts most related to the employer’s needs.
For example, a computer science degree is important when applying for a tech job.
Mentioning honors, advanced coursework, or projects also adds value.
It is a good idea to include:
- Degree(s) held
- Name of institution(s)
- Graduation year(s) (if recent)
- Courses or certificates related to the job
Education can also show a candidate’s commitment to learning and improvement, which many employers value.
Expressing Enthusiasm and Personality
Employers are often looking for candidates who will be a positive addition to their team.
A cover letter is a chance to show real excitement for the job.
Writing with enthusiasm means clearly stating why the role is exciting and what draws the writer to the company.
Phrases like “I am eager to join your team because of your commitment to innovation” help set the right tone.
Personality comes through in the way a letter is written.
It’s important to stay professional but also to let some personal qualities show.
A confident but friendly message often makes a memorable impression.
For more details on what to include, see what a cover letter is and how to write one at Indeed’s guide.
How to Write Your Cover Letter
A strong cover letter can set a candidate apart from others.
Taking the time to research, personalize details, and use clear communication can help make a lasting impression.
Researching the Employer and Job Description
Before writing a cover letter, it is important to research the employer and carefully review the job description.
This helps the candidate understand the organization’s values, mission, and workplace culture.
Reviewing the company’s website, recent news articles, and social media pages gives insight into their current goals and projects.
Take note of keywords and required skills from the job description.
Look for repeated themes or qualifications.
For example, if a company highlights teamwork or leadership, these skills should be referenced in the cover letter.
This research will help the candidate show genuine interest in the organization.
Understanding what the employer wants allows for a more targeted and relevant letter.
For more tips, see this guide on writing a cover letter.
Tailoring Content to the Hiring Manager
Addressing the cover letter to a specific hiring manager is preferred.
If a name is not listed, try to find it on the company website or through professional networking sites.
Personalization shows effort and respect.
Connect past experience and achievements to the needs of the employer.
Use the same keywords that appear in the job posting.
Be clear about why those experiences make the candidate a strong fit for the position.
Structure the letter into short paragraphs that explain interest in the role, how the candidate’s skills support the organization, and why they want to work there.
Avoid generic statements and focus on evidence.
Personalized content is more likely to catch the hiring manager’s attention and demonstrate a thoughtful approach.
See how to write a cover letter that stands out.
Effective Communication Skills
The language in a cover letter should be clear, direct, and error-free. Use active voice and professional wording.
Keep sentences short and to the point. A strong cover letter is organized and easy to read.
Using bullet points or a list can help highlight key skills or achievements:
- Led a team of five colleagues on a major project
- Increased department efficiency by 15%
- Completed advanced training in data analysis
Be enthusiastic but sincere. Check for grammar and spelling errors before sending.
Employers value candidates who communicate well and can express their thoughts clearly. For more detailed writing tips, explore the full cover letter guide for 2025.
Tips for Creating a Strong Cover Letter
A strong cover letter highlights why a person is a good match for the job and demonstrates real interest in the position. To be effective, it should be clear, well-structured, and tailored to each application.
Do’s and Don’ts
Crafting an effective cover letter involves several important steps. Always address the cover letter to a specific person or hiring manager if possible.
This shows extra effort and adds a personal touch. Use a professional format and keep the cover letter to one page to avoid overwhelming the reader.
Do:
- Start with a strong opening sentence that catches the reader’s attention
- Focus on how your skills match the company’s needs
- Give specific examples of achievements related to the job description
- Research the employer and include a detail that shows you understand the company
Don’t:
- Repeat your entire resume
- Use generic phrases
- Be overly formal or too casual in tone
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many cover letters fail because of common errors. A frequent mistake is sending the same letter to different jobs without making changes.
Tailoring each letter to match the job posting increases the chance of getting noticed. Another typical error is focusing too much on what the writer wants instead of what the employer needs.
Avoid using vague statements such as “I am a hardworking individual.” Instead, use direct language and provide clear evidence of qualifications.
Typos and grammatical errors make applicants appear careless. Always proofread before sending the letter.
Leaving out a strong opening and closing paragraph is another misstep. A clear introduction sets the tone, while an effective closing can leave a positive final impression.
Choose words carefully and watch the tone throughout the letter.
Examples and Sample Cover Letters
Job seekers can improve their chances of getting noticed by using clear and targeted cover letters. Samples are helpful guides for format, tone, and content.
Entry-Level and Internship Cover Letters
Entry-level and internship cover letters should highlight education, relevant coursework, part-time jobs, and skills developed through volunteer work or school projects. The main focus is to show motivation and ability to learn.
A strong entry-level letter will often mention specific school projects or extracurriculars. For internships, candidates can discuss their passion for the field and eagerness to gain real-world experience.
Briefly explaining why the company interests them can also make the letter stand out.
Sample Points to Include:
- Relevant classes or certificates
- Short stories of teamwork or problem solving
- Specific interest in the company or role
For more tips and several example templates, visit Indeed’s cover letter samples.
Experienced Professional Cover Letters
Experienced professionals should focus on their most relevant work history, technical skills, and measurable achievements. It is important to connect past results to the job being applied for.
Often, these cover letters use bullet lists to highlight accomplishments or key skills. Professionals may use facts and numbers, such as sales increases or project completions, to show value.
What to Include:
- List of key professional achievements
- Leadership roles or management experience
- Examples of working with clients or teams
Sample cover letters for experienced professionals are available in resources like this PDF from UCF, which provides detailed templates and suggestions.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Cover Letters
Artificial intelligence has changed how people write cover letters. It can save time, offer templates, and help job seekers highlight the right skills, but there are also important things to keep in mind.
AI Tools for Writing and Personalization
AI tools quickly create cover letters based on a user’s experience and the job description. Many tools ask for details like work history, skills, and target job title.
They use this information to make a letter that looks professional and matches the job’s needs. These tools can help users organize their thoughts and structure their cover letter in a clear way.
AI also suggests strong wording or removes grammar errors, which can make a better first impression with potential employers. Some AI tools go one step further by suggesting specific achievements or industry keywords for better personalization.
However, letters made by AI can sound generic if users do not edit them. Job seekers should always add their own experiences and voice to make sure the letter stands out.
Learn more about how AI helps save time and align cover letters with job roles at Kindo.ai’s guide.
Considerations for Job Seekers
Using AI for cover letters has benefits, but there are some points job seekers need to consider. Employers often value authenticity.
If a letter sounds too artificial or does not match the person’s real experience, it can hurt the chance of getting an interview. AI can help catch mistakes, but it is not a substitute for personal insight.
A strong cover letter usually shares personal stories or reasons for wanting to work at a company. Some experts say that using AI can help organize thoughts, but adding an authentic voice is key.
Read more about the pros and cons in Alberta’s career guide.
Job seekers should review and customize any AI-generated cover letter before sending it. This ensures the letter feels genuine and fits both the job and their background.
Managers and recruiters notice when a cover letter feels honest and personal, which influences their decision to offer an interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
A cover letter gives a brief introduction of the applicant and highlights relevant skills. It works alongside a resume to provide details about experiences and interest in a job.
How can I write an effective cover letter for my resume?
To write a strong cover letter, tailor it to the specific job and employer. Use clear language and show how your skills match the job’s needs.
Keep the tone polite and professional. Start by reading the job description carefully.
Mention your interest in the company. Give examples from your past experience that fit the role.
What are the essential elements to include in a cover letter?
A cover letter should include a greeting, an introduction, the body, and a closing. The greeting addresses the hiring manager if possible.
In the introduction, state the job you are applying for. The body explains your qualifications and why you are a good fit.
The closing should thank the employer and invite a response.
Can you provide a good example of a cover letter?
A clear example:
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am applying for the Sales Assistant position at ABC Store. I have two years of customer service experience and strong communication skills.
I am excited to bring my friendly attitude and work ethic to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
John Doe
What distinguishes a cover letter from a resume?
A cover letter is a one-page document that explains why the applicant is right for the job. It is written in paragraph form.
A resume lists facts about education, experience, and skills, usually in bullet points. Cover letters are more personal and specific, while resumes are more general and factual.
Employers use cover letters to look at your communication skills and interest in the role.
Where can I find a free cover letter template?
Free cover letter templates are available on many career websites. For example, Indeed.com offers templates and tips to guide your writing.
These resources can help you format your letter and include the right information.
What is the recommended length for a cover letter?
A cover letter should be one page or less.
It usually contains three to four short paragraphs.
Each sentence should give important details about your skills and fit for the job.
Avoid large blocks of text to make it easy to read.
