essay examples

write job application letter example

QuestionsAnswered.net

What's Your Question?

How to Write a Job Application Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.

Write a First Draft

Writing a first draft makes your letter concise and professional, states The Balance Careers. Organize your thoughts by making a list of what you’re trying to convey. Make sure you prioritize certain aspects like your previous job experience and why you would be a good fit for the position. Clearly state what position you’re interested in and why. Think about why you’re applying and what caught your eye about this specific position. Your cover letter will be easier to write after your thoughts are collected and organized.

Customize Your Salutation

When writing a salutation, make sure you know who you are writing to. Is this person the owner of the company or a Human Resources administrator? If you’re not sure, research the company to find out. Addressing your cover letter to a specific person shows initiative and attention to detail. After your salutation, start your letter with a short introduction of yourself. This gives future employers insight into who you are and the purpose of your cover letter.

Write Intentionally

Your cover letter should be no more than one page, so keep your points brief. Clearly state what position you are interested in and why. Explain why you are a good fit for the company because of your past job experience. If you have no similar job experience, let the employer know why you are changing career paths. Expand on your skills and give specific examples of how that skill set helped you at your last position. Name projects you’ve worked on and show results.

Close Your Letter

End your cover letter with a brief sentence and sign off. Thank the employer for their time and express your interest towards the job again. Let them know you’ll follow up with them if you do not hear back within a week and leave your contact information. Sign off with a professional farewell and leave room for a signature if sending a hard copy.

Edit and Proofread

As you finish writing your cover letter, make sure you take time to edit and proofread your document. Make sure it’s structured in a professional format with the company’s information, the salutation and introduction, the body of the letter, a brief closing sentence and farewell. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes to ensure a formal result. Make sure all names are spelled correctly, as well.

MORE FROM QUESTIONSANSWERED.NET

write job application letter example

Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

Alison Doyle is one of the nation’s foremost career experts.

write job application letter example

What is an Application Letter?

What to include in your application letter, tips for writing a cover letter, cover letter sample and template, email cover letter sample.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Alex Dos Diaz / The Balance

What's the best way to write a letter to apply for a job? Your letter should detail your specific qualifications for the position and the skills you would bring to the employer. What’s most important is to show the employer that you’re a perfect match for the job.

Your job application letter is an opportunity to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experience. An effective cover letter will enhance your application, showcase your achievements, and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Review what to include in a job application letter, tips for writing a letter that will get your application notice, and examples of letters and email messages sent to apply for a job.

Key Takeaways

A   letter of application, also known as a  cover letter , is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information about your skills and experience to an employer. Your letter of application is intended to provide detailed information on why you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, what makes you a strong candidate, why they should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up.

Effective application letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify the most relevant skills that qualify you for the job.

Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, explain your qualifications for the job, why you should be selected for an interview, and how you will follow up.

Unless an employer specifically requests a job application letter sent by postal mail, today most cover letters are sent by email or attached as a file in an online application tracking system.

As with all cover letters, a job application letter is divided into sections:

Here’s how to ensure that your application supports your resume, highlights your most relevant qualifications, and impresses the hiring manager.

Get off to a direct start.  In your first paragraph, explain why you are writing. Mention the job title and company name, and where you found the job listing. While you can also briefly mention why you are a strong candidate, this section should be short and to the point.

Offer something different than what's in your resume. You can make your language a bit more personal than in your resume bullet points, and you can tell a narrative about your work experience and career.

Application letters typically accompany resumes, so your letter should showcase information that your resume doesn't.

Make a good case.  Your first goal with this letter is to progress to the next step: an interview. Your overarching goal, of course, is to get a job offer. Use your application letter to further both causes. Offer details about your experience and background that show why you are a good candidate. How have other jobs prepared you for the position? What would you bring to the position, and to the company? Use this space to  emphasize your strengths .

Close with all the important details.  Include a thank you at the end of your letter. You can also share your contact information and mention how you will follow up.

This is a sample cover letter.  Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for an email sample.

The Balance

John Donaldson 8 Sue Circle Smithtown, CA 08067 909-555-5555 john.donaldson@email.com

September 6, 2022

George Gilhooley LTC Company 87 Delaware Road Hatfield, CA 08065

Dear Mr. Gilhooley,

I am writing to apply for the programmer position advertised in the Times Union. As requested, I enclose my certification, resume, and references.

The role is very appealing to me, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education make me a highly competitive candidate for this position. My key strengths that would support my success in this position include:

With a BS degree in computer programming, I have a comprehensive understanding of the full lifecycle of software development projects. I also have experience in learning and applying new technologies as appropriate. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.

I can be reached anytime via email at john.donaldson@email.com or by phone at 909-555-5555.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.

Signature  (hard copy letter)

John Donaldson

The following is a sample email cover letter to send as part of a job application.

Email Application Letter Example

Subject: Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

I'm writing to express my interest in the Web Content Manager position listed on Monster.com. I have experience building large, consumer-focused, health-based content sites. While much of my experience has been in the business world, I understand the social value of this sector, and I am confident that my business experience will be an asset to your organization.

My responsibilities have included the development and management of website editorial voice and style, editorial calendars, and the daily content programming and production for various websites.

I have worked closely with health care professionals and medical editors to provide the best possible information to a consumer audience of patients. I have also helped physicians to use their medical content to write user-friendly and easily comprehensible text.

Experience has taught me how to build strong relationships with all departments in an organization. I have the ability to work within a team, as well as cross-team. I can work with web engineers to resolve technical issues and implement technical enhancements. 

I am confident working with development departments to implement design and functional enhancements, monitor site statistics, and conduct search engine optimization.

Thank you for your consideration.

Colleen Warren colleen.warren@email.com 555-123-1234 www.linked.com/colleenwarren

How to Send an Email Application Letter

If sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title you are applying for in the  subject line  of the email:

Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Include your contact information in your email signature but don't list the employer's contact information.

Do you have to write a cover letter when you apply for a job?

Some employers require cover letters. If they do, it will be mentioned in the job posting. Otherwise, it’s optional but it can help your chances of securing an interview. A cover letter gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer, showcase your qualifications, and explain why you are a perfect candidate for the job.

How can you use a cover letter to show you’re a qualified candidate?

One of the easiest ways to show an employer how you’re qualified for a job is to make a list of the requirements listed in the job posting and match them to your resume. Mention your most relevant qualifications in your cover letter, so the hiring manager can see, at a glance, that you have the credentials they are looking for.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter ?"

CareerOneStop. “ Effective Cover Letters .”

By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.

21+ Cover Letter Examples in 2023 [For All Professions]

Background Image

No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must . 

Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.

Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done. 

You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates. 

And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.

Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples 

#1. career change cover letter example .

cover letter example for career change

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

Want to learn how to write a career change resume that’s on par with your cover letter? Check out our guide!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example 

cover letter example for a recent graduate

Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish! 

job search masterclasss novoresume

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Middle Management

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for business manager

Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample. 

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for phd

Here’s what this cover letter does right: 

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for senior executive

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example 

Cover Letter Example

Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example 

cover letter examples

Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume . 

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example 

best cover letter example

For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Digital Marketing

Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example 

Cover Letter Example for Graphic Designer

Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Administrative Assistant

Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Front Desk

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Human Resources

This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example 

Cover Letter Example for Sales Agent

Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Receptionist

Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Information Technology

Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Real Estate Agent

This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Teacher

Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Project Manager

This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Paralegal

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

What is a Cover Letter? 

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume . 

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).

So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day. 

Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough. 

Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

cover letter structure

9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."

#1. Pick the right template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?

You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!

cover letter examples templates

#2. Add your contact details on the header

The best way to start your cover letter is through a header. 

Here’s what you want to include there:

Optionally, you can also include the following:

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter. 

A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.

So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?

One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.

If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking something like this: 

Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates. 

What you want to do, instead, is start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position. 

For example:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.

The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.

Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?

#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job

One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job. 

A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+. As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit

The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.

After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary . 

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:

Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter! 

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:

#8. Write a formal closing

Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.

Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions in a cover letter:

#9. Proofread your cover letter

Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included. 

The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos! 

For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article ! 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:

1. How do I write a simple cover letter? 

To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action). 

2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter? 

The three parts of a cover letter are: 

3. What makes a great cover letter?

A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”

To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.

Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by. 

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .

Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.

And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.

If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles: 

cookies image

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

Job Application Letter Samples For 8 Job Profiles

A job application letter is usually the first step to initiate the job application process.

This makes it the most crucial step towards bagging your dream job.

Don't worry, we have you covered.

Take cues from these job application letter samples to get the word out.

You can also download the job application letter samples for different job roles!

Job application letter sample - 1

Subject: Application for the Role of {Sales Manager} at XYZ Ltd.

Dear Mr./Ms./Mrs. {Recipient's Name},

This is with reference to your job requirement on {portal name} for the role of Sales Manager. I truly believe that my qualifications and experience make me a perfect candidate for the job.

I completed my MBA in Sales and Marketing from {Institute Name}. I have worked as an Area Sales Manager and Assistant Marketing Manager at {Company Name}. During my stint as Area Sales Manager, I conceptualised and executed a Customer Engagement Program that resulted in higher sales. As Assistant Marketing Manager, I worked on the planning and execution of a new product launch. With 4 years of experience in B2B sales and marketing, I have an in-depth understanding of the process. I am confident that I will be the right fit for the job.

I have attached my CV to the email for your reference. Please have a look at it.

I hope to meet you and discuss this opportunity further. Thank you for considering my application for the role.

Best regards, {Your Name} Mob: {Your Contact Number} Email Id: {Your Email Address)

Download job application letter sample 1 .

Also read: A Trans Candidate Can Tell If A Company Is Serious About Inclusivity: Nishant, PeriFerry

Job application letter sample - 2

Subject: Job Application for {Assistant Manager – Supply Chain}

Dear Mr./ Ms./ Mrs. {Recipient's Name},

I am writing to apply for the position of Assistant Manager – Supply Chain at your esteemed firm. I got to know about the job role through a member of your team, {Mr./Mrs. Name, Designation}, who happens to be my neighbour.

I have completed my Masters in Supply Chain Management from {University Name}. I worked as a Management Trainee for a year at {Company Name}. At {Company Name}, I gained vast knowledge and experience about supply chain management in an e-commerce field. I was also a part of the team that was responsible for planning and executing new inbound supply chain processes.

Working at your esteemed e-commerce organisation is the dream of every person who wants to make a career in supply chain management. With my experience and skills, I will surely be able to add value to your business.

I request you to consider my application for the role. My resume and cover letter are attached to the email. Please refer to them for more information.

Kindly feel free to contact me for further discussions.

Yours sincerely, {Your Name} Mob: {Your Contact Number} Email Id: {Your Email Address)

Download job application letter sample 2 .

Job application letter sample - 3

Subject: Application for the Post of {Software Developer}

This is regarding your post on {Portal} about a vacancy in your company for the role of Software Developer. Please accept my application for the same.

Here is a brief about myself. I have completed B.Tech in Computer Science from {Institute Name}. I secured {Marks/Grade} in my final exams and passed with {distinction/Percentage}.

During my studies, I participated in various tech fests and also won a gold medal for creating an app from scratch in an inter-university tech competition.

I am confident that I have the skills to excel at your dynamic organisation. I have always dreamed of being a part of your company due to the development opportunities you provide. I request you to give me an opportunity to learn and grow at your esteemed firm through this job role.

Please refer to my resume and cover letter, attached with the email, for detailed information.

Yours sincerely, {Your Name} Mobile:{Your Contact Number} Email Id:{Your Email Address)

Download job application letter sample 3 .

Job application letter sample - 4

Subject: Job Application for the Role of {English Teacher}

Dear Sir/Madam {Recipient's Name},

This is regarding your advertisement published in {Portal Name} regarding a vacancy for an English Teacher. I would be glad to apply for the role.

Teaching has always been my passion, and I have always been great with students. I have been a Supervisor at {School Name} for 5 years. I have also taught class VI and VII for 2 years earlier. My qualification and experience match your requirements.

I have attached my resume for your consideration, and request you to consider my application for the role. If you find it suitable, please feel free to contact me at the below mentioned contact details.

Yours sincerely, {Your Name} Mobile: {Your Contact Number} Email Id: {Your Email Address)

Download job application letter sample 4 .

Also read : How to write an application for teaching job

Job application letter sample - 5

Subject: Application for the Post of {Data Analyst}

I am {Your Name}, and I would like to apply for the post of {Data Analyst} at your esteemed organisation.

I have 3 years of work experience at {Firm’s Name} where I helped the marketing team with useful insights into their customer base through data analysis. I am adept at data management software like MS Excel, SAS, and Visualr.

I have attached my detailed profile with this email, and I hope to work with you in the future.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Download job application letter sample 5 .

Also read : How to become a data scientist

Job application letter sample - 6

Subject: Application for the Post of {Project Manager}

This email is in response to your job post about an opening for a Project Manager’s role at your firm. I would like to apply for the same.

My track record of completing every project within the given time and budget proves my efficiency as a Project Manager. I have worked extensively in the social sector as well as with corporate organisations.

My skills match your requirements well, and I have attached my detailed profile to this email for your consideration.

I hope to discuss this opportunity with you in person. Thank you for considering my application.

Download job application letter sample 6 .

Job application letter sample - 7

Subject: Job Application for the Post of {Graphic Designer}

I am very interested in the position of Graphic Designer at your esteemed organization. I came across the position via your advertisement in {Portal Name}.

Currently, I am working with {Company’s Name}, and I have been handling a wide range of high profile projects. I have been working on Adobe Creative Suite for the last 4 years. Please find below a link to my portfolio. {Insert link}

I am confident that my skills perfectly match your requirements. I have attached my detailed profile to this email for your consideration.

Thank you for considering my application. I hope you find it suitable so that we can arrange a meeting.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Download job application letter sample 7 .

Job application letter sample - 8

Subject: Application for the Post of {Social Media Manager}

Dear Mr./Ms./Mrs. {Recipient's name},

I would like to apply for the position of Social Media Manager at your esteemed firm.

I have been working with {Company name} as a {Designation} for the last {Number of months/years}. I have also been running my own blog page for the last 2 years. Here is the link for the same {Insert link}.

I have a lot of ideas for your social media campaigns that I hope to discuss with you in person. I hope to get an opportunity to use my skills to help your company grow and develop my own skills at the same time.

Please refer to my CV for more information, which is attached to the email.

It would be great if you could arrange a meeting with me for further discussion.

Download job application letter sample 8 .

Also read : Social media interview questions and answers

Naukri's Official Blog icon

You control your data

We use cookies to tailor the experience of creating resumes and cover letters. For these reasons, we may share your usage data with third parties. You can find more information about how we use cookies on our Cookies Policy . If you would like to set your cookies preferences, click the Settings button below. To accept all cookies, click Accept.

Cookie settings

Click on the types of cookies below to learn more about them and customize your experience on our Site. You may freely give, refuse or withdraw your consent. Keep in mind that disabling cookies may affect your experience on the Site. For more information, please visit our Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy .

Choose type of cookies to accept

These cookies allow us to analyze our performance to offer you a better experience of creating resumes and cover letters. Analytics related cookies used on our Site are not used by Us for the purpose of identifying who you are or to send you targeted advertising. For example, we may use cookies/tracking technologies for analytics related purposes to determine the number of visitors to our Site, identify how visitors move around the Site and, in particular, which pages they visit. This allows us to improve our Site and our services.

These cookies give you access to a customized experience of our products. Personalization cookies are also used to deliver content, including ads, relevant to your interests on our Site and third-party sites based on how you interact with our advertisements or content as well as track the content you access (including video viewing). We may also collect password information from you when you log in, as well as computer and/or connection information. During some visits, we may use software tools to measure and collect session information, including page response times, download errors, time spent on certain pages and page interaction information.

These cookies are placed by third-party companies to deliver targeted content based on relevant topics that are of interest to you. And allow you to better interact with social media platforms such as Facebook.

These cookies are essential for the Site's performance and for you to be able to use its features. For example, essential cookies include: cookies dropped to provide the service, maintain your account, provide builder access, payment pages, create IDs for your documents and store your consents.

To see a detailed list of cookies, click here .

This site uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. To learn more visit our Privacy Policy

Letter of Application: Job Example, Format & How-To Guide

Letter of Application: Job Example, Format & How-To Guide

Are you thinking about writing yet another letter for your job application? Definitely not! I’ll prove to you that a letter of application is nothing more than a cover letter.

Katarzyna Furman

As seen in:

Oh, come on! What is this? Another letter to get an interview?

That was your reaction to hearing a “letter of application” for the first time. 

Am I wrong?

The list seems never to end: a cover letter, covering letter, motivation letter… 

You’ll be happy to know that it’s the same thing. 

And there’s more.

This guide will show you:

Did you know that our builder can take care of the formatting for you? No need to worry about margins and spacing: just add your text and watch the Zety builder arrange everything on the page just the way it should be. Here’s what your job application letter can look like: 

letter of application example

You can take your pick from 20+ professional templates to make your letter of application not only formatted well but also look great! 

Did you mean how to write a cover letter ? No worries! Find our guides right below:

This letter of application template proves you’re second to none:

Letter of Application Example

[Your Name]

[Job Title]

[Mailing Address]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

[Place, Date]

[Hiring Manager Name]

[Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager Name],

I was thrilled to hear you opened a post for an event planner. As an office assistant in Staff, I single-handedly organized a year-end party for the entire office, deemed the most entertaining and successful event the employees had a chance to attend. 

It came to my attention that my position as an office assistant may seem off-track for the post you are advertising, yet let me assure you it is not. Allow my achievements to speak for the qualities you are looking for in an event planner:

The job of an event planner is not to arrange seats and tables. It is to create memories worth a lifetime. Together, we will organize events worth remembering.

Let’s schedule a meeting to discuss how my transferable skills could help your team.

Best Regards,

[Your Name], [Job Title]

PS—I will also be happy to tell you how my social media campaign for the local animal shelter’s community event boosted attendance by 20%. My methods were unconventional, and they sure worked! 

Send your job application letter with a job-winning resume for synergy. See our article: Resume Writing: Your Go-To Guide

What is a Letter of Application?

A letter of application is yet another name for a cover letter or job application letter. You submit it with your resume to apply for jobs. It’s a one-page letter intended to explain why you’re a perfect fit for the advertised position. 

This is what a letter of application should include:

Now, here’s how you write an application letter:

How to Write an Application Letter? 

Start from the beginning, which in this case is to—

1. Create an ATS-Friendly Job Application Letter Template

You need something to write on. But instead of grabbing paper, open a text editor and adjust the format of the letter page.

No splatters guaranteed!

See how to format your job application letter:

Format of an Application Letter

Disclaimer: The Applicant Tracking Software sees your application first, so if the software can’t parse it, the recruiter won’t even have a chance to read it.

By taking care of the layout, you ensure your letter of application passes the ATS scan and lands in the candidates list you’re targeting. 

Plus, with clear formatting, you’re making it easy for the recruiter to read it and quickly pick out the best bits.

That’s it in terms of your letter’s technicalities.

Let’s move on to the job letter introduction.

2. Open Your Application Letter Right

Do you know why patterns appeal to so many people?

They’re consistent. Seamless.

To achieve a similar effect with your letter, mirror the design of your resume in the header section. That way, you’ll make your application more memorable and cohesive. (And simultaneously, you won’t risk making a mistake in your contact information.)

Later, a challenge awaits. Or not? It depends.

You’re about to address your hiring manager , and if they gave their name in the job ad, you’re lucky. But if they have not, then the hunt is on.

Look for it on the company’s LinkedIn page or website. You can even call the place and ask, yet get prepared to talk directly with that particular person.

It’s important because you don’t want to address the letter to whom it may concern . It’s heartless (and almost inhumane, as you’re not addressing a person).

To avoid that, in case you’ve searched through hills and valleys and found nada, write “ Dear Hiring Manager ” instead. But remember, it’s your last resort.

And now—

The opening.

There are several strategies you can use to start your letter. Among them are:

There can be thousands of reasons why you’re applying for a job, so first and foremost, stay true to yourself and don’t look for inspiration elsewhere. If you’re having a hard time coming up with something, the above have proved successful many times.

See the below application letter sample to see what I mean by successful job letter introduction:

Application Letter Sample [First Paragraph]

Yikes! 

The second one just won’t do. It’s the opposite of success. 

Your opening paragraph needs to compel the reader, make them eager to carry on with your letter, not move it aside to the boring pile.

It’s important you remember there’s no “I” in “employers must be charmed by your paragraphs,” so drawing attention from the employer and their needs only asks for ignorance. Build your sentences without much use of the “I” pronoun, and you should end up just fine.

Now, I won’t let you think that the same rules apply to inexperienced candidates writing their application letters.

Employers look for your motivation to grow and learn instead of accomplishments. However, they’re indeed helpful in convincing them of your fit. 

Why don’t you see for yourself that an inexperienced candidate with a proper attitude can create the same strong argument:

Job Application Letter Example for Candidates With No Experience

And that’s impressive!

ProTip: Make sure you don’t use your high school email address ([email protected]) even if you had to create a new one only for this job application.

3. Show Off in the Middle

Now’s the time for the main dish. 

It’s two-course.

In the first paragraph of the middle section, you should convince the reader that you’re perfectly qualified for the job. To do that, you can use your accomplishments and real-life examples of your skillset . 

In the second paragraph, speak of your motivation and reasons for joining. You want to get your message across very clearly so that the employer believes you’re a good fit for each other.

Take a look at the below examples to see how to describe your achievements and experience in the middle section of your job application letter:

How to Write an Application Letter Sample [Middle]

Wow…

Here’s how to go about it the right way: 

Now check out how you can impress recruiters in the middle paragraphs of the application letter if you don’t have much experience:

Application Letter Example for Candidates With No Experience [Middle]

It’s not so hard, is it?

  

Pressed for time or still not sure what to say? Good news: the Zety builder can also help you with your wording. Alongside matching job application letters and resume templates , it comes with drag & drop bullet points and other pre-written content to speed up your job application: 

Create the perfect resume

Just think: you could skip the boring parts and be ready to apply for your dream job in minutes! 

4. Close Your Letter of Application With a CTA

The worst’s behind you.

Now it’s time to thank for consideration, time, and other clichés.

Exactly—clichés.

They’re not effective in job applications. Not really, no. So get rid of any voices in your head telling you to write “Thank you for considering my application” or “ Looking forward to hearing from you .”

Make a move and ask the recruiter directly whether they’ll invite you for an interview. 

See how to write a Call to Action in the job application closing paragraph:

Simple Job Application Letter [Ending]

Not only does it make the recruiter feel obliged to reply, but you can also count on a quick response!

Plus, you created one more opportunity to sell yourself and your strengths that have the power to solve your employer’s problems. Well done!

To sign the letter, you can use “Best Regards” variations, such as “Kind Regards,” “With Kind Regards,” or “With Best Regards,” followed by your full name.

The postscript is totally optional. Still, you can use it to seal the deal by pitching a finisher-level accomplishment.

Key Takeaway

An application letter in a nutshell:

Thank you for reading my article!

Want more info on how to write a great letter of application? Wondering how your simple job application letter can get you noticed? Is there anything more you’d like to know about a job application letter? 

Leave a comment. We’ll be happy to reply!

Katarzyna Furman

Don't miss out on exclusive stories that will supercharge your career!

Get a weekly dose of inspiration delivered to your inbox

Similar articles

Do I Need a Cover Letter? Are Cover Letters Necessary in 2023

Do I Need a Cover Letter? Are Cover Letters Necessary in 2023

Do I need a cover letter? Is it important? What if the job offer doesn’t require a cover letter? Read this guide to find out all you need to know.

Cover Letter Heading & Header Template (4+ Examples)

Cover Letter Heading & Header Template (4+ Examples)

Creating the perfect cover letter header is easy. Actually, there are only two rules you need to follow. Here’s where you’ll learn them & see ready-to-use examples.

5 Short Cover Letter Examples for Any Job (+ Writing Guide)

5 Short Cover Letter Examples for Any Job (+ Writing Guide)

Today’s hiring process is fast and furious. Don’t waste the recruiter’s time—see our 5 short cover letter examples and learn how to make every word count.

LiveCareer

Best Cover Letter Examples for 2023

Our cover letter examples help with your job application because they show you what to include and how to convince employers you’re the right person for the job. We have 245+ samples from over 18 industries. Plus, we give advice and tips on how to use cover letters in various hiring situations.

brands image

Popular cover letter examples

Here are some of our most-viewed cover letter samples.

Don’t see your job title? Keep scrolling to search for the exact job title you need,and find hundreds more examples below!

Search cover letters by job title

Use this search bar to scan all the cover letters in our database and find one for the exact role to which you’re applying.

SEARCH BY JOB TITLE

Universal cover letter example

Every cover letter should include the same sections as the sample seen here, regardless of the job.

All cover letters should include these five sections:

Address/Salutation:

Salutation:

Introduction paragraph:

Body paragraph(s):

Closing paragraph:

Also known as a job application letter, our cover letter samples help you write a cover letter .

A cover letter example for your industry or job title shows exactly how the end result should look. Use them for inspiration as you write your own!

For even more help, use our Cover Letter Builder !

It’s a great tool that gives step-by-step guidance, features 30+ cover letter designs and provides industry-specific phrasing created by resume experts.

Our builder will eliminate the guesswork of writing a cover letter, and save you a lot of time!

Cover letter examples by industry and job title

Looking for a sample cover letter for a resume in your industry? Check out our examples listed by job title and organized by industry.

Accounting & Finance Cover Letter Examples

Study our accounting and finance cover letter samples for your job application to multiply your chance for success. See how other candidates describe their math skills, tax code knowledge and education to earn these roles.

Administrative Cover Letter Examples

A cover letter demonstrates your organization and communication skills before you step into the office. These administrative letter examples will help you get ready to write. Use our cover letter examples for the job you desire.

Business Cover Letter Examples

Here are good cover letter examples for business roles. They’ll help you see the selling points your job competition uses to frame their experience.

Construction Cover Letter Examples

We’ve got example cover letters that you can use as blueprints for your own solid introduction. Get inspired and learn how other job seekers are framing their skills in the construction field.

Customer Service Cover Letter Examples

Writing a cover letter is a breeze if you’ve got the patience and communication skills required for customer service roles. Just stick to the script! Write a great letter using our cover letter examples to guide you.

Education Cover Letter Examples

A good cover letter example can show you what you should say to get hired. Study our education cover letter examples below. They’ll help you brainstorm and craft a cover letter worthy of a gold star.

Fire Fighting Cover Letter Examples

Our firefighting example cover letters provide you with good ideas for how you can tell your own career story.

Healthcare Cover Letter Examples

Give your job search the booster shot it needs, a cover letter that demands attention. Our cover letter samples will help you write your own letter that will impress hiring managers and land you an interview.

Hotel & Hospitality Cover Letter Examples

Our cover letters are at your service! Check out our collection of hospitality cover letter samples below. They’re full of great ideas for describing your passion for hospitality, guest satisfaction and great service.

Human Resources Cover Letter Examples

HR is often responsible for hiring at many companies, so your cover letter should be top-notch. Review our cover letter samples for HR positions. See how others describe their skills in hiring, managing and developing talent within a company.

Information Technology Cover Letter Examples

Nearly every modern business needs technical support. Get insight into how others sell their tech skills. Take advantage of our great cover letter examples to help land the IT job you desire.

Janitorial Cover Letter Examples

Spruce up your cover letter to score a new job with our maintenance and janitorial example cover letters below. They’ll help you craft a letter that shows employers you’ll keep their workplaces up and running.

Marketing Cover Letter Examples

If your resume is your personal branding statement, your cover letter is the sales pitch to get hired. Hone your message for marketing and advertising positions by looking over cover letter example letters here.

Medical Cover Letter Examples

Our cover letter samples for medical professionals will show hiring managers you’ve got the necessary skills, schooling and work experience to succeed. We’ve got examples from every medical specialty.

Retail Cover Letter Examples

Earn a new job in retail with a stellar cover letter. See how our cover example letters for retail jobs demonstrate the full range of skills needed in the industry.

Sales Cover Letter Examples

Sell your future employer on hiring you with an excellent cover letter. Browse through our sales cover letter samples for one matching the role you want.

Safety & Security Cover Letter Examples

Secure a job by submitting a great cover letter. Check out some top-notch security cover letter samples to see how you can best sell your own experience to employers.

Transportation Cover Letter Examples

A cover letter is a vehicle to accelerate your job hunt. Take a look at our transportation application letter examples for ideas on how to impress hiring managers. They’ll help you arrive at your next job.

Cover letter examples for every scenario

Use the example letters below to find the right words or phrases to explain yourself in different professional scenarios.

When you are new to the workforce, a cover letter can help you fill in the work gaps of your resume by pointing out the skills, education and training you possess that make you an excellent fit for the role.

A cover letter is valuable if you have limited work or internship experience. It helps you draw a direct connection between the experience and education milestones you cite in your resume to the role to which you’re applying.

If you have an employment gap on your resume, a hiring manager will likely wonder why. In this case, a cover letter is perfect for explaining your situation. In the body of your cover letter, briefly mention why you stepped away from the workforce, such as because of a layoff, family emergency or to raise children. Keep it brief, though; the purpose of the cover letter is to focus on your credentials and what you bring to the table.

When you want to make a career change, your cover letter provides the space to explain your motivation and reasons for doing so. Remember, the letter should focus on what you’ll offer the employer, so keep your explanation for making the change brief. The bulk of your cover letter should highlight your relevant work experience and transferable skills .

A cover letter is critical when seeking a promotion or transfer with your current employer. This type of cover letter explains your motivation for applying for the promotion and why you believe you would excel in the new role.

If you have a connection who works at the company you’re applying to or is a colleague of the hiring manager, the first paragraph of your cover letter is where you should mention your connection. It will increase your chances of getting the job if someone with close knowledge told you about it.

If you’ve had your eye on a company you’d like to work for but haven’t seen any job openings, you can use your cover letter to explain that. Your introduction should explain what makes you passionate about working for this company. In addition, you should outline the skills and type of role you would like.

Have a lead on a great role that will open in the future? There’s no need to wait for it to be posted to the job board. View our sample letters of interest for a job you want, even if it hasn’t been posted yet. Learning to write this type of letter can set you apart from the competition.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. Its aim is to introduce yourself, outline your skills and experience, and explain why you would be the best fit for the role.

Cover letters shouldn’t be long, just a few paragraphs –– about 250 words or one double-spaced page.

They are a great way to convey your enthusiasm for the position or company and discuss what interests you about the role. Personalize your letter by directly addressing the hiring manager or recruiter.

What does a cover letter look like?

A cover letter looks like any other standard business letter: It consists of a recipient address, a greeting, two to three body paragraphs (the main text) and a signature. It’s three to four paragraphs long and should all fit on a single page.

While a cover letter will always consist of the same parts, you can change the appearance by changing details such as the font or adding a touch of color.

If you’re uncertain about what a cover letter looks like, it’s a good idea to use a cover letter template .

A template is just a preformatted document that takes care of the visual elements of your cover letter. That way, you can focus on the message of your cover letter instead of the design.

How important are cover letters when applying for jobs?

Cover letters are very important to apply for jobs. The only time that you shouldn’t include one is if the job post requests that you don’t or if the website you’re using to apply for a job does not allow you to attach one.

Even if it’s not requested, submitting a cover letter will help attract the attention of hiring managers. It’s a way to show that you have solid communication skills and expand on your resume’s key skills.

Since it’s more space to advertise yourself than a resume alone, it helps you better sell yourself. Cover letters are critical because you may be at a disadvantage for the job if you don’t take the time to include one, and other candidates do.

What are three good cover letter tips to remember?

Here are three helpful cover letter tips:

What should be in a well-written cover letter?

Our sample cover letters show you all the elements of a strong cover letter. At its most basic, a well-written cover letter is composed of five key sections:

Is it OK to have a two-page cover letter?

Cover letters should be focused and concise, so it’s not advised to go past one page. That’s the accepted standard practice for cover letters.

That’s because recruiters often get hundreds of applications for a single job opening and don’t have time to read long letters. That’s not to mention including a cover letter that is longer than other candidates’ may look sloppy and unprofessional.

How should I prepare my cover letter?

There are two ways to write a cover letter:

See more on our FAQ Page

Create a Cover Letter with LiveCareer

As seen in *

*The names and logos of the companies referred to in this page are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with LiveCareer.

write job application letter example

Resume Genius

The World's Smartest Resume Builder

Home Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter Examples for All Job Applications in 2023

Conrad Benz

Paired with your resume, a well-written cover letter will help you land the job you want. We have nearly 200 cover letter examples by type and industry to help you make your cover letter persuasive.

five cover letter examples stacked on top of each other — internal position, career change, relocation, entry-level, and professional cover letter samples together

The best way to start writing a cover letter for a job in 2023 is to check out examples of good cover letters.

Our extensive list of cover letter samples is perfect for all job seekers, whether you need to write one for a specific life situation (like a career change) or you’re looking for the best cover letter format to use in your industry.

Table of Contents

Cover Letter Examples by Industry

What should a great cover letter say.

Not sure what a cover letter is or what it should include? A killer cover letter is made of the following four parts:

The cover letter template below describes how to write each of these key sections:

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

Opening Paragraph (Introduction)

Your cover letter opening should contain a self introduction. Write about who you are, where your expertise lies, where you found the job posting, and why you want to apply for the job.

Body Paragraphs

The second paragraph of your cover letter should respond directly to the job description written by the hiring manager. Describe how your previous job experiences, skills, and abilities will help you meet the company’s needs. To make that easier, you should include exact words and phrases from the job descriptions in your cover letter.

Do some research about the company and find out what their current activities and goals are. Explain how you can help them achieve those goals.

Closing Paragraph

Your cover letter closing is the call-to-action portion of your cover letter. Inform the hiring manager that you’d love to go in for an interview. Provide your email address or other contact information and tell them that you’ll reach out in a week if you don’t hear back. Thank them for spending their time reading your cover letter.

1. Entry-Level Cover Letter Example

This entry-level cover letter was written by a recent graduate who only has a little part-time work experience.

In our example, the candidate is applying for an entry-level IT technician position. She quickly establishes her enthusiasm about the opportunity, and then highlights her relevant skills to show she can do the job:

The cover letter example

Want a closer look at this cover letter example? Here’s a text version that you can scan through:

Entry-level cover letter example (text version)

Dear Mr. Jacobson,

As a long-term admirer of the work done by the team at Mayflower Technologies, I’m delighted to submit my application for the entry-level IT technician position posted on Indeed.com. As a recent graduate from the University of Rochester with a B.S. in Computer Science, I’m confident that my knowledge of Linux systems, experience in backend coding, and precise attention to detail would make me an asset to the team at Mayflower.

In my former role as a student worker at the University of Rochester’s Technical Services department, I was responsible for troubleshooting a variety of technical issues for staff, assisting with server maintenance, and installing a wide range of equipment. While employed there, I assisted in the development and rollout of new department practices, and helped improve our ticket response time by 12%. I’m sure that this experience will help me pick up new skills and quickly excel as a technician at Mayflower.

I also understand that Mayflower is seeking to expand their cloud computing services. While at the University of Rochester, I specialized in and completed my thesis on cloud computing. The IT technician position at Mayflower would be an exciting opportunity for me to bring my educational background to the table, and learn more about a growing industry.

I’ve attached my resume, which further details my skills and educational background. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about my background. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you further; thank you for your time and consideration.

[Your Name]

What makes this a good cover letter

This entry-level cover letter sample stands out because the applicant emphasizes her enthusiasm about the opportunity from the very first sentence.

Beyond her enthusiasm, the candidate also shows she’s qualified . She quickly (and convincingly) markets her professional strengths , including relevant hard skills (Linux, backend coding) and soft skills (precision, attention to detail).

By the end of her cover letter, the candidate has even demonstrated that she’s researched the position, and is passionate about the work the company is doing. Overall, this is an effective way to make a positive impression as an entry-level job seeker because it shows the employer that you’re energetic and ready to learn.

2. Professional Cover Letter Example

Are you a senior-level professional or experienced manager trying to highlight your professionalism in a cover letter?

The restaurant manager cover letter example below will show you how to come off as a qualified veteran:

An example of a professional cover letter

Download This Free Example

Here’s a text version of this cover letter sample so you can go through line-by-line:

Professional cover letter example (text version)

I’m writing to apply for the Restaurant Manager opening at MOD Sequel. I have more than five years of experience managing restaurants and bars, and my professional expertise aligns closely with the responsibilities outlined in your job advertisement.

In my role as Restaurant Manager for Bar Louie, I proved to be an efficient, enthusiastic, and strong leader. My value quickly became apparent to Bar Louie’s shareholders after I single-handedly trained and prepared the entire waitstaff for opening night and beyond. Not only did our team meet sales goals each month for the first year, but the down payment for the property was even paid back after the first six months of operating.

MOD Sequel would benefit from my skills in the following areas:

• Eye for excellence and high level of standards • Strong work ethic and leadership skills • Positive attitude even under pressure

I believe MOD Sequel will be a great success for many years to come, and my extensive expertise will help ensure your establishment succeeds well into the future. My time spent in this industry has prepared me for such an opportunity, and I sincerely hope I can contribute soon as a member of your team.

It would be a privilege to discuss your Restaurant Manager position in more detail. I’m happy to come by whenever it’s most convenient for you. Thank you for your time, and I’m looking forward to hearing from you.

Why this is a good cover letter

Right from the start, this applicant showcases the managerial skills they developed while working in the service industry. They then highlight how they’ll apply those skills to make an immediate impact on the company.

Additionally, the applicant mentions the company by name three times. It’s clear that they’re familiar with the business, have an interest in joining this specific team, and understand how they’d fit on the team if hired.

Lastly, our applicant’s cover letter includes their address to highlight how close they live to the restaurant . Pointing out where you live can be helpful if you’re applying for a non-remote job because it shows the employer that you won’t need to move or even commute very far if hired.

3. General Cover Letter Example

This general cover letter was written by a candidate with two years of work experience.

In the example, the candidate is applying for a mid-level digital marketing position. In the first paragraph, the applicant:

An example of a general cover letter

Here’s a text version of this cover letter sample in case you want a closer look at each paragraph:

General cover letter example (text version)

Dear Ms. Doe,

I was excited to see your job listing for the Senior Digital Marketing position at Westward Strategies on Indeed.com. As a dynamic email marketing specialist with over two years of professional experience executing market research, analyzing consumer data, and running A/B tests to drive successful marketing campaigns, I’m confident that I would be a valuable asset to the team at Westward.

Your job listing mentions a need for someone who is experienced in email segmentation and campaign development, both of which are areas I have extensive experience in. I’m currently employed at Marketed Inc., where I’ve honed my skills by running numerous successful email marketing campaigns. While employed here, I’ve spearheaded a digital promotion campaign for the company’s new line of sandals that successfully raised our total online engagement by an impressive 13% over the course of six months, contributing substantially to the department’s annual goals.

I’m confident that my proven track record of excellent work ethic, unparalleled attention to detail, and high-performing email marketing campaigns will make me an immediate asset at Westward Strategies, and allow me to contribute to the team’s success.

I look forward to discussing the Senior Digital Marketing position and my qualifications with you in more detail. I’m available to talk at your convenience. I’ll be in touch next week to follow up and to make sure you’ve received my application.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Why this is a good example of a cover letter

In the cover letter example above, the candidate is concise and direct . She conveys much of what a cover letter should say in the opening paragraph, like her amount and type of experience, plus where she found the job.

Then the candidate lists specific responsibilities from the job description, and mentions her experience handling similar work. She even gives an example of how her efforts have benefited her current employer.

At this point, the candidate’s cover letter has already helped the hiring manager better understand her value as a hire. But she’s not done yet.

Finally, the candidate signs off by mentioning how she’ll reach out if she doesn’t hear back from the hiring manager. This call to action is a key part of a general cover letter, because it highlights the writer’s interest in the job, and willingness to go further than other candidates for the opportunity.

4. Creative Cover Letter Example

A creative cover letter makes you stand out by adding a bit of personality and flair to your application.

In our creative cover letter example, the candidate is applying for a senior-level social media manager position. By the second paragraph, she has the reader’s attention. Then, she establishes her qualifications:

An example of a creative cover letter

Take a more detailed look at this cover letter sample by reading through the plain text version:

Creative cover letter example (text version)

As a quick-thinking online native who’s obsessed (yes, obsessed) with the Scatterplot app, I was thrilled to see your listing for the Social Media Manager position at Scatterplot Entertainment Co.

With over three years of professional experience as an online brand manager under my belt, I’ve analyzed user metrics, run A/B tests, and spearheaded viral social media campaigns. You name it, I’ve clocked an embarrassing number of hours online working on it. I’m confident my adaptability, hands-on branding experience, and encyclopedic meme knowledge would make me a perfect fit for the team at Scatterplot.

Currently, in my role at DotMap as a Social Media Manager, I manage and execute highly successful online branding campaigns. I regularly produce viral content, getting several of our branded Tweets featured on major websites. In one such instance, I tweeted a thread of adorable corgis using the DotMap iOS app — receiving over 60 thousand interactions and earning a spot on Buzzfeed’s front page.

I’m fiercely competitive in my approach, up-to-date on all the latest trends, and can clean up even the messiest social media disasters. I’m positive my knack for creating clickable content will make me an immediate asset to the Social Media team at Scatterplot.

I look forward to discussing the Social Media Manager position and my qualifications with you in more detail. I’m available to talk at your soonest convenience, and I’ll be in touch next week to follow up, just to make sure you’ve received my application!

Warm regards,

First, the candidate doesn’t waste the reader’s time . She immediately states her interest in the position, relevant qualifications, and specific skills. Hiring managers are busy, so it’s crucial to be direct in both your cover letter and resume.

Next, she presents her information in a casual, fun tone . A personal touch in your cover letter helps you present yourself as a creative, enthusiastic job seeker. It also makes your application more memorable.

Finally, the candidate lists specific accomplishments from her previous job, and explains how these accomplishments are relevant to the position.

Elaborating on your professional achievements is essential to writing a great cover letter. Your achievements show the hiring manager what they will gain by hiring you, and emphasize your worth as a potential employee.

5. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Writing a cover letter for a job in your current industry is pretty straightforward. But writing a career change cover letter requires a slightly different approach.

The sample cover letter below includes the three elements you need to persuade a hiring manager you’re ready to transfer industries, such as:

An example of a cover letter for career change

Want a closer look at this cover letter example? Here’s a text version that you can read more carefully:

Career change cover letter example (text version)

Ever since I was a child, I’ve loved transforming people through the art of makeup. My proudest accomplishment was preparing my younger sister for her prom night — she was voted prom queen that evening. Because of my passion for this art form, I’m applying for the makeup artist position at Studio 96.

I’ve worked in several customer service positions since I graduated high school, through which I’ve honed my people skills and improved my ability to work effectively in high-pressure situations. In fact, in my current position at Zara I’ve increased sales by 17% this month.

However, I’ve found that customer service doesn’t satisfy my creative side. Thus, I’m eager to join Studio 96, a company I’ve been a fan of since I learned about the avant-garde approach to makeup application developed under your founder Bianca Del Vanjie.

To meet Studio 96’s needs, I’ve completed the 150-hour course in Makeup Artistry offered by the Los Angeles-based Sonique Academy in my spare time. I’ve also volunteered for the Look Good, Feel Better organization, where I boosted the self-esteem of cancer patients by giving them makeovers.

I am looking forward to hearing back from you. I can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email]. Thank you for considering my application.

The first reason this is a great cover letter example is that it’s sincere . The applicant is sincerely passionate about her target industry — she even provides a relatable story to emphasize this sincerity.

This cover letter is also great because it directly addresses the reason for the applicant’s career change . Letting the hiring manager know why you’re looking for employment in a different industry is necessary if you’re changing careers, because they’ll want to know why you’re making the change.

Finally, it’s clear the writer of this cover letter is committed to the new job . She’s even worked on her skill-set to prepare her for this change in professions.

6. Cover Letter for Promotion Example

Have you been with your current company for a while and want to take on more responsibility ? You’ll likely need to write an internal cover letter for promotion to convince your boss that you’re ready to move up the corporate ladder.

A cover letter for promotion differs from a regular cover letter in two ways:

In the following example, the candidate is writing to the marketing director of their company to apply for an open senior-level sales manager position:

A sample cover letter for an internal promotion

If you’re having trouble reading this cover letter sample, take a look at the text version below:

Cover letter for promotion example (text version)

Dear Mrs. Lasker,

As a loyal employee of Peabody, I’m excited to formally apply for the Sales Manager position in the Marketing Department. Since starting as a Sales Representative at Peabody four years ago, I quickly mastered the requisite skills for the role, and have helped our department regularly exceed sales goals.

From the beginning I’ve demonstrated an ability to learn quickly and exceed expectations. During my tenure, I’ve developed excellent sales skills, honed my interpersonal abilities, and subsequently helped my department generate a 6% increase in profits this quarter. Additionally, this year has given me the opportunity to sharpen my leadership skills — having successfully onboarded 4 new employees and assumed management over a small direct sales team.

I’ve read the requirements for the Sales Management position thoroughly, and I’m confident that the skills I’ve refined during my time working here paired with my passion for customers and making direct sales make me an ideal fit.

I appreciate your consideration and look forward to discussing this opportunity for promotion with you at your convenience. My supervisor is also happy to meet with you to elaborate on my performance in the Sales Department, and will attest to my qualifications. Please let me know if there’s any other information I can provide that would help with this process, and I’d be happy to provide it to you.

This candidate’s cover letter stands out because it’s direct and highlights specific accomplishments expected of a managerial-level employee.

In the introduction of this cover letter, the candidate emphasizes his loyalty to the company, and quickly moves on to talk about the contributions he’s made to his team.

Then, the candidate provides examples of his leadership and management experience to demonstrate that he’s ready to take on a more significant role.

By the end of this cover letter, this candidate has shown his boss that he’s not only made an impact in his current role, but is already exceeding expectations. More importantly, he has the skills needed to keep up with the demands of a more senior position.

Cover Letter Examples by Application Type

The following guides will show you how to write a variety of different cover letter formats and types:

Our robust collection of industry-specific cover letter examples is sure to have a cover letter for your unique situation. You can download all of these sample cover letters for free and customize them to fit your needs.

Click your industry below to find examples for different jobs:

Accounting & Finance

Administration & office support, business & management, business development, construction & maintenance, customer service & retail, customer service & retail, customer support & sales, digital art & production, education & human services, emergency services, engineering, finance & banking, fine arts & aesthetics, food service, healthcare & wellbeing, healthcare & wellbeing, human resources (hr), information technology (it), law & legal, life situation, maintenance, marketing & sales, personal & child care, public safety & security, resume: yes, science & research, spa & salon, transportation & travel, warehouse & logistics, web development & design, writing & media.

Once you’ve found a cover letter example for your target position, use a matching resume sample to help you write a resume and complete your job application.

Frequently asked questions about cover letters

Still have questions? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about cover letters:

What are 3 things you should include in a cover letter?

Three things you should include in a cover letter are:

Combined, these three elements make for a compelling cover letter that communicates why you’re the ideal person for the job.

How do you write a simple cover letter?

Here’s how to write a simple cover letter in six steps:

How important is a cover letter?

A cover letter is very important because it not only shows off your professional qualifications, it also gives you an opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the position and explain why you’re the ideal person for the job.

A well-written cover letter is often the difference between being offered an interview or being outright rejected for a job, so why not write one to improve your odds on the job hunt?

How do you build a cover letter?

There are three ways you build a cover letter:

The fastest (and easiest) way to build a cover letter is by using an online cover letter builder .

These tools use AI to automatically write a strong cover letter for you based on a few bits of information that you provide for the tool.

However, most cover letter generators aren’t free, so if you need to save money you may want to build a resume the old-fashioned way.

Writing your cover letter yourself is the highest effort and most time-consuming way to make your cover letter. However, it’s also free and you have complete control over the content.

If you’re applying for a job that requires writing skills, it’s a good idea to write your cover letter from scratch because it gives you an opportunity to highlight your writing abilities.

A simple cover letter template is a good starting point from which to make your cover letter. Most cover letter templates provide a general format that you can quickly fill in with your information, so you don’t need to use as much energy as you would writing your letter from scratch.

Using a template is a good way to make your cover letter if you’re unsure where to start and need some guidance. However, the end result is that your cover letter might come across as generic or awkward if you’re not careful, so it’s not always the best method.

Additional cover letter FAQs

Click to rate this article

Conrad Benz

Written by Conrad Benz

Conrad Benz is a Digital Media Specialist & Resume Expert at Resume Genius, where he helps countless job-seekers craft standout resumes and launch their careers. His... more

Related Articles

An illustration of a cover letter with statistics shown behind it

Cover Letter Statistics for 2023

January 12, 2023 | By   Rebecca Tay, Ph.D.

Image showing how to write a cover letter that impresses recruiters.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job

December 22, 2022 | By   Ida Pettersson

cover letter template hubpage hero image, animated man pointing at cover letter templates

September 18, 2022 | By   Pauline Delaney

Cover letter with a question mark on top of it, are cover letters necessary?

Are Cover Letters Necessary in 2023?

January 11, 2023 | By   Corissa Peterson

Hiring managers contemplate the best cover letters they've received for a job opening.

Best Cover Letter Examples of 2022 & Why They’re So Good

May 18, 2022 | By   Aaron Case, CPRW

How to write a cover letter with no experience

How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience

July 26, 2022 | By   Eva Chan, CPRW

Proper cover letter format set upon a wooden table with leaves

Cover Letter Format: How to Format Your Cover Letter in 2023

December 8, 2022 | By   Emily Crowley

short cover letter example hero image, sample of a cover letter that's under 100 words

5 Short Cover Letter Examples (+How to Write)

February 24, 2023 | By   Ida Pettersson

Resume Tools

Cover Letter Tools

Career Tools

© 2023, Sonaga Tech Limited. All rights reserved

ResumeGenius.com is owned and operated by Sonaga Tech Limited, Hamilton, Zweigniederlassung Luzern with offices in Luzern Switzerland.

IMAGES

  1. Job Application Letter

    write job application letter example

  2. job application letter ~ samples business letters

    write job application letter example

  3. Samples Of Job Application Letters In Kenya

    write job application letter example

  4. Job Application Letter Sample

    write job application letter example

  5. How To Write A Letter Of Job Application

    write job application letter example

  6. Job Application Letter Examples

    write job application letter example

VIDEO

  1. 3 Main Point Regarding Job Application Letter

  2. Letter for job || Formal letter || letter for job for class 10th/12th students || Sunil Satpute Sir

  3. How to write job application letter#shorts

  4. APPLIACTION FOR EMPLOYMENT AS A SALES GIRL

  5. how to write job application letter/TMSS NGO আবেদন করার নিয়ম TMSS JOB

  6. How to write job application for the post of an English Teacher || Job application for Teaching Job

COMMENTS

  1. How to Write a Job Application Cover Letter

    Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.

  2. How Do You Write a Letter to Request a Job?

    Job seekers must write job application letters, otherwise known as cover letters, which include the applicant’s contact information, a salutation, the body of the letter and a closure, according to Alison Doyle for About.com.

  3. How Do You Write a Letter Requesting a Job Back?

    To write a letter asking for your job back, you should state your intention directly and immediately within the letter or email. Address the boss in a formal tone, and then immediately state that you are inquiring about the potential for be...

  4. How To Write a Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)

    Think about your experiences and how you would like to relate these experiences to a hiring employer. · Think about how you learned about the job

  5. How To Write an Application Letter (Template and Example)

    1. Research the company and job opening · 2. Use a professional format · 3. State the position you're applying for · 4. Explain why you're the best

  6. How To Write a Job Application Letter (With Examples)

    How To Write a Job Application Letter (With Examples) · Length: A letter of application should be no more than one page long. · Format and Page

  7. Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

    The role is very appealing to me, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education make me a highly competitive candidate for

  8. How to Write a Cover Letter in 2023

    Hey, my name is Jonathan and I'd like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I've worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years

  9. 21+ Cover Letter Examples in 2023 [For All Professions]

    A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume. Its purpose is to introduce you

  10. Job Application Letter Samples For 8 Job Profiles

    I am confident that I have the skills to excel at your dynamic organisation. I have always dreamed of being a part of your company due to the

  11. How to Write a Cover Letter for Any Job in 8 Steps (2023)

    A cover letter is a document attached to a job application designed to introduce the candidate in a more personal way. It should complement the

  12. Letter of Application: Job Example, Format & How-To Guide

    What is a Letter of Application? · Header with your name and contact details · Hiring manager's address · Opening paragraph introducing yourself

  13. Cover Letter Examples to Get a Job in 2023

    Address/Salutation: This belongs at the top of the document, where you include your contact info and the address of the person to whom you are writing.

  14. Professional Cover Letter Examples for Job Seekers in 2023

    The second paragraph of your cover letter should respond directly to the job description written by the hiring manager. Describe how your