“Attach a cover letter “
Just about to send off your job application and then you saw “Attach a cover letter (optional)” at the bottom of the page? What do you do? Skip it? It is optional… No! A well-written cover letter can be the difference between getting your foot in the door and being relegated to the “no” pile. 83% of recruiters agree! But how do you write a cover letter? How do you pick a cover letter format?
In this post, we tell you how to write a cover letter, provide cover letter templates, the cover letter format, and some cover letter examples to help you stand out. Once you get your cover letter nailed down, don’t forget to prepare for your one-way and in-person video interview with Voomer.
In this post we will discuss:
- Why write a cover letter
- Get the cover letter format right
- Cover letter examples to download (Microsoft Word & Pages)
Why?
Sending a cover letter is essential because it gives you another opportunity to explain to the employer why you are the best candidate for the job. Would you turn down the interview? If not write a cover letter. Again, if you want the job write a cover letter.
This first impression from a cover letter gives you the chance to elaborate on your skills and experience, and show who you are as a professional and what you prioritize. Similar to the one-page resume (also known as a one-page CV), a short, sweet, and to-the-point cover letter format shows you care about this application, value effective communication, and are considerate of the hiring manager’s time.
But how do you write a cover letter that will actually get you hired?
Format
You’ve decided you want to write a cover letter. Now what? The most important aspect is the cover letter format. How do you do it right? Use the KISS principle: Keep It Simple Stupid.
3 seconds after opening your email or letter the hiring manager will need to have read through your letter, so using a simple template, keeping the length short, and providing a warm welcome to your application is essential. The key parts of a cover letter are as follows:
- Introduction sentence
- Highlight the most relevant qualifications or experience
- Explain why you are the perfect fit
- Invite the hiring manager to review your application
As you write your letter or customize a template, remember the following points:
- Keep it short and to the point The employer doesn’t want to read a novel, so get to the point and tell them why you’re the best candidate for the job.
- Highlight your relevant experience and skills If you have experience or skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for, make sure to mention them in your cover letter.
- Personalize it A generic cover letter that could be sent to any employer is not going to make that great impression. Take the time to research the company and the specific job you’re applying for, and then tailor your cover letter to them.
- Use strong language Avoid using weak or passive language in your cover letter. Instead, use strong verbs to describe your accomplishments and show off your confidence.
- Proofread A cover letter filled with spelling mistakes or grammatical errors is not going to impress an employer. Take the time to proofread your cover letter before you send it off.
Cover letter examples
OK, you know why to write a cover letter, but you can’t start writing. Don’t worry, these templates below can be copy-pasted or downloaded.
Remember if you are sending the cover letter in an email body instead of as an attachment, you remove the addresses at the top of the letters which are in the downloadable Microsoft Word and Pages templates.
Don’t forget to replace any text in [ ] brackets and to customize and change the wording until you are happy.
Cover letter example 1
Download for Microsoft Word or Pages
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to apply for [position] at [company]. I am a [degree/professional qualification] holder from [college/university] and I have [years] of experience in [industry].
With the skills and experience needed for this job, I am confident I can deliver and exceed the requirements. In my previous roles, I have [example of a time I used relevant experience / skills / competency]. I am dedicated and confident that I can be an asset to your company.
I am excited to have the opportunity to apply for this job and look forward to hearing from you shortly. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[name]
Cover letter example 2
Download for Microsoft Word or Pages
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to apply for [job title] at your company. Based on my research, I believe that my skills and experience would be a valuable addition to your team.
As a [current job] for [current company name], I handled a wide range of [relevant situations]. Alongside this, I developed strong [relevant example skills] that I believe would be beneficial in this role. I am also familiar with your company’s products and services and am confident that I can provide [important skill, competency, or requirement for the job].
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss the position with you further. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[name]
Cover letter example 3
Download for Microsoft Word or Pages
To Whom It May Concern,
I am interested in being the [job title] at your company. Based on my research, I believe that my skills and work experience would be a great match.
Here is a quick summary of my qualifications:
– [relevant qualification, skill, experience, or competency]
– [relevant qualification, skill, experience, or competency]
– [relevant qualification, skill, experience, or competency]
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this with you. My resume is attached for your review. I can be reached at [phone number] or at [email address].
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[name]
Cover letter example 4
Download for Microsoft Word or Pages
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing in regards to the open [name of job] position at [company name]. Based on my research, I believe that my skills and experiences make me the perfect candidate for this role.
In particular, my background in [relevant industry], coupled with my experience working with [type of client or technology], has honed my ability to [relevant skill or competency]. I am confident that I could bring this same level of success to [company name] and help contribute to the firm’s continued growth.
Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[name]
Cover letter example 5
Download for Microsoft Word or Pages
Hello [company name],
I am submitting my application for your open [name of job] position. After reading the job description and requirements, I am confident that I am the ideal candidate for this role.
As a recent graduate of a [enter name of program], I have the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in a [type of job] role. In addition, my previous experience working in [type of industry / job characteristic] has developed my ability to [relevant skill or competency].
I believe that I would be a valuable asset to your team, and I look forward to discussing my qualifications in further detail.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[name]
Cover letter example 6
Download for Microsoft Word or Pages
Dear hiring manager,
I am writing in regards to the [job title] position at [company]. I am a highly experienced and successful [current position / expertise], with [length of time] working in the industry.
I have a proven track record of [examples of relevant skill or competency] and I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications that [company] is looking for in a [job title]. In addition to my extensive experience, I have a deep understanding of [relevant skill or competency].
I would love the opportunity to discuss my experience and qualifications further with you. Please do not hesitate to contact me to arrange a meeting. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[name]
Conclusion
Hiring managers receive hundreds (or even thousands) of applications for a single job. A good cover letter format should be short, sweet, and to the point. Introducing you and your qualifications, the cover letter should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for.
Now you’ve nailed your cover letter with the above examples, use Voomer to prepare for your one-way and in-person video interview.