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Writing Compelling Physician Cover Letters

Writing Compelling Physician Cover Letters

Career resources content posted on NEJM CareerCenter is produced by freelance health care writers as an advertising service of NEJM Group, a division of the Massachusetts Medical Society and should not be construed as coming from, or representing the views of, the New England Journal of Medicine , NEJM Group, or the Massachusetts Medical Society

Making a positive first impression is a crucial first step in landing a desired job. One challenge of cover letter writing is to follow a prescribed format yet simultaneously set yourself apart from your peers. This can be accomplished by clearly and concisely articulating your core professional goals and your commitment to the calling of medicine.

— John A. Fromson, MD*

By Bonnie Darves , a Seattle-based freelance health care writer

The cover letter is usually the first bit of written communication from job seekers that hits the desk of a hiring physician, staff recruiter, or human resources professional. As such, it can make the difference between getting an interview and your dossier landing in the “maybe” pile.

Although writing a cover letter may be an unfamiliar challenge for many residents, it’s not terribly difficult if you follow three basic rules: Keep it short, make it clear, and cover the basics. “Think about the needs of the reader,” says James W. Tysinger, Ph.D., deputy chair for education in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Texas Medical School and author of Resumes and Personal Statements for Health Professionals . “Let the reader know right away who you are and why you are writing.”

Brevity, Personalization, and Passion Tysinger recommends starting the letter with a simple introductory statement such as “I am a third-year family-practice resident at [insert program name]. I seek a position as a family practice physician in your practice” (or “in your fellowship program” or “at your institution,” as the case may be).

Ideally, the cover letter should be no more than three paragraphs that fit on a single page. “Simplicity is best,” Tysinger says. “Letters that go on for two or three pages, or that try to impress rather than inform, may cause the reader to lose interest.”

To increase the chance that your application ends up atop the “active” pile, whenever possible personalize the letter and indicate that you have some knowledge of the position and institution, says James St. Clair, a senior search consultant with J&C Nationwide in Atlanta. Always write to the appropriate person, St. Clair advises, and unless you’re answering a blind ad, avoid salutations such as “to whom it may concern,” which may give the impression that you’re uncertain about yourself and the process.

Both Tysinger and St. Clair also urge physicians to briefly mention why they are interested in pursuing a position in a particular region. “You want to create a compelling tie to the area rather than simply stating that you’re looking for a position as a general internist,” St. Clair says. If you or your spouse is a native of the area where the practice is located, for example, you could add the following: “My husband and I grew up in [name the city], and we are eager to move back there.”

Mazie Blanks, a 30-year veteran of the physician-recruiting field who now recruits for the Permanente Medical Group in Northern California, advises ratcheting personalization up into the realm of passion. “The cover letter is an opportunity to differentiate yourself from others,” Blanks says. “Show some passion, because people want to hire physicians who love what they do.” Because personalization and passion are so important, Blanks also discourages physicians from using cookie-cutter cover letters, such as those included in “one-size-fits-most” software packages.

Cover Letter Do’s and Don’ts Pay attention to basic details. Spell all names, titles, and addresses correctly and ensure the letter doesn’t contain any grammatical errors. Make sure your contact information is listed accurately.

Write directly and avoid generalities. Rather than “I would like to express my interest in the position that is currently available at your practice,” write the following: “I seek a position as a gastroenterologist at your clinic.” Specifically mention the appeal of the practice opportunity.

Highlight special expertise. Subspecialists and some specialists familiar with new procedures should briefly explain their expertise and/or the number of procedures they’ve performed.

Briefly address any time gaps in training or practice that are evident in your CV to prevent potentially negative reader assumptions.

Request confidentiality, if necessary, and make sure contact information (which may include e-mail addresses) directs respondents to channels that are suitable for confidential communications.

Obtain professional writing or editing help. If writing isn’t your strong suit, ask a program director or a professional writer to help you craft the letter. Remember, poorly written letters often give a negative first impression.

Use high-quality, easy-to-copy paper. White or off-white, 24-pound paper is best because the cover letter and CV are frequently photocopied and routed to several individuals. Avoid colored paper or paper with a high rag content, both of which may reproduce poorly.

Resources Writing tips and sample letters . Writing Help-Central, at www.writinghelp-central.com , provides tips for writing clear, concise cover letters and other documents. The American Medical Association ( www.ama-assn.org ) and the American Academy of Family Physicians ( www.aafp.org ) also provide helpful resources for physicians entering the job market.

Books and guides. The following books specifically address the physician job search:

Resumes and Personal Statements for Health Professionals , 2nd ed., James W. Tysinger, Ph.D., Galen Press, Ltd., 2001.

Physicians’ Resume and Cover Letter Workbook : Tips and Techniques for a Dynamic Career Presentation , Sharon Yenney, American Medical Association, 1998.

Strategic Career Management for the 21st Century Physician , Gigi Hirsch, M.D., and Mike Scott, American Medical Association, 1999.

*Dr. Fromson serves as the editor for Career Resources and is Vice Chair for Community Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Hospital; Chief of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital; Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School.

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Physician Cover Letters: Why Writing a Good One Is As Important As Ever

Physician Cover Letters: Why Writing a Good One Is As Important As Ever

Author: Justin Nabity

Last updated: October 27, 2023

Everything That Physicians Need to Know About Cover Letters 

Table of contents.

  • 1. How Long Should a Physician Cover Letter Be?
  • 2. What Your Physician Cover Letter Should Include
  • 3. What Your Cover Letter Should NOT Include
  • 4. Physician Cover Letter Examples

Every professional knows that a cover letter goes hand-in-hand with a CV .

But, while cover letters tend to be standard across most industries, physician cover letters are a bit different.

If you’ve spent time perfecting your CV so you can apply for a new position, now it’s time to get to work on that cover letter.

From the content to the formatting, here’s everything that physicians need to know about cover letters.

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How Long Should a Physician Cover Letter Be?

In general, a cover letter should be between three and five short paragraphs. Three paragraphs is the standard. However, you can add a fourth or fifth paragraph if there are specific things you want to include that relate to the position.

Ideally, your cover letter should be less than one page . Unlike a CV, it is not okay to stretch your cover letter to two pages.

Remember, the purpose of a cover letter is to shed a bit more insight into who you are and why you’re the ideal candidate for the position. It is not to describe yourself in detail, recap, or talk about anything that is already written in your CV.

What Should a Physician Cover Letter Include?

Physician cover letter length

There are seven key things to keep in mind when formatting and writing your cover letter. Here are the main points to consider when crafting yours:

1. Include Your Personal Information

Your cover letter should contain all of your personal data, including:

  • The abbreviation of your medical degree
  • Current title
  • Mailing address
  • Phone number
  • Email address

Make sure this information matches the information listed at the top of your resume exactly .

2. Address Your Letter to the Proper Person

Writing “To Whom It May Concern” just won’t cut it. Every cover letter should be addressed directly to the person who will be reading it.

Take the time to research the name of the hiring manager who will be looking at candidates (this is usually the department chair).

If you can’t find the person’s name through online research, take a moment to call the employer and ask who it is. A little thing like this goes a long way in showing that you pay attention to detail.

3. Create a Strong Opening Paragraph

The purpose of a cover letter is to grab the attention of the employer and make yourself stand out from all of the other physicians applying for the same position. Your first paragraph will set the tone for the entire letter. Therefore, it needs to make the reader want to continue reading.

In the opening paragraph, be sure to mention the specific position you’re applying for . If there is a job code or reference number associated with the job listing, include it. If not, simply state the job title as posted in the job description.

You should also mention if the job you’re applying for is full-time, part-time, or a temporary locum tenens position.

In summary, the opening paragraph should clearly state your goals and show that you have a genuine interest in the position .

4. Discuss the Geographic Location of the Position

The one thing that makes physician cover letters so different from other industries is that it’s important to connect to the geographical location.

Employers want to hire physicians that want to work in their specific town, city, or state. And that’s because they want physicians to stay for the duration of the contract term and beyond.

If you’re applying for a position in the Midwest, the employer wants to know that Midwestern life is what you’re looking for. They want physicians who are excited about their location and the community they serve.

It’s also important to do your research and learn a bit about the patients the employer serves .

Let the employer know that you love the hardworking people of Tennessee, the family-oriented communities in Kentucky, or the grit and wit of New Yorkers. The more the employer thinks you are excited to work for them (and serve their community), the better your chances are of getting an interview.

5. Mention Personal Connections if You Have Them

If you have a personal connection to the town where the position is located, mention it. Maybe it’s the town you grew up in. Maybe you went to school in a nearby city. Or maybe it’s a city you visited once and fell in love with. Whatever the reason may be, it’s important to show that you have a connection to the geographic area.

6. Briefly Mention Some of Your Skills

You do not need to recap all of your practical skills — those should already be included in your CV. But you should use your cover letter as a way to draw attention to specific aspects of the position, especially ones that you are exceptionally qualified to do.

Give a brief example of some of the ways you excelled in your current role or in a previous position. Be specific and include details of things you’ve done in the past that will be relevant to the new job you’re applying for.

You may be able to glean this information from the job posting, or you may need to do a bit more research. The more you know about the position, the more you can tailor your cover letter to include specific examples of some of your achievements. Ultimately, your cover letter should demonstrate that you will be effective if hired for this role.

7. Include a Thank You

Every cover letter should conclude with a thank you and a slight push toward next steps. Thank them for taking the time to read your cover letter and review your CV then include a polite request for an interview . Make it clear that you want the opportunity to discuss your experience and qualifications in greater detail.

Related: How to Work With a Physician Recruiter

What Your Cover Letter Should NOT Include

How to write a cover letter physicians and doctors

Your cover letter should not be a recap of everything in your CV. Let your CV speak for itself and use your cover letter as a way to show some insight into who you are, without rehashing too many details about your education and experience.

Make sure your cover letter does not include any negative language or pessimistic outlooks on the job at hand or the industry in general. This is not the time to write a manifesto on all that you wish you could change about the healthcare industry.

If your cover letter or CV includes typos or grammatical errors, you probably won’t even be offered an interview. Make sure that your cover letter is error-free. Proofread it several times before submitting it or have a colleague or a professional writer look it over for you before sending it off.

Do not mention anything that might limit your opportunities. While you should be clear if you are interested in a full-time or a part-time position, now is not the time to say that you only want to work two days a week or that you do not want to have to be on-call .

Save those specifics for the interview or for the contract negotiation process (if your demands are reasonable). The point of your cover letter is to get an interview, not to eliminate yourself from the candidate pool before you have a chance to show them who you are and what you can offer.

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Important: Create a Unique Cover Letter for Every Position

Every position you apply for deserves its own cover letter. Create a standard template that includes the formatting and your contact information, but tailor every cover letter specifically to the individual job.

Because every job is slightly different.

Though the duties may be the same, where you’ll be working and the sort of patients you’ll be seeing can vary. By creating different cover letters for each job, you can change your language and phrasing in a way that works with that specific employer.

Don’t send the same cover letter with every job application. Employers will see this, and it will reflect negatively on you.

Physician Cover Letter Examples

Ready to write your cover letter?

Here is an example that you can use as a guide to creating your own.

Dear Dr. Smith:

Introduction

I am writing in response to the Radiology Oncology position posted on the American Society of Radiation Oncology Career Center, Job ID 1817, located in Sandusky, Ohio. I am currently serving as Chief Resident (PGY5) in the radiation oncology residency at Baylor College of Medicine, under the chairmanship of John Smith, MD. Moreover, I am excited about the potential opportunity to join your team at the conclusion of my residency in July. As highlighted in the enclosed application materials, including CV and letters of recommendation, I am recognized not only for my professionalism with colleagues, but most importantly, for my dedication to patients and the restoration of their good health.

Medical Background

As you will see, I chose to attend medical school outside of the United States to foster cultural growth and satisfy my appetite for travel. While abroad, I had the opportunity to participate in multiple clinical and professional development opportunities that differentiate me from other applicants. Given your international clientele and the cultural and linguistic diversity of the Rockford community, my international and multicultural experience will enhance the contributions I would bring to your practice.

Current Experience

Now in my final year of training, I have met the ACGME clinical requirements as we have very strong clinical experience with exposure to all types of cancers. We have most notably achieved great success with HDR brachytherapy for gynecologic cancers, and I have over 175 cases to date. As chief resident, I am an active member of ASTRO, TRS, and RSNA with both oral and poster presentations at several national meetings.

As you consider candidates for your radiation oncology position, I encourage you to consider my multicultural experiences overseas. Along with the exceptional training of the Baylor program. I would truly appreciate the opportunity to meet you in person to learn more about your position. Please contact me to discuss my qualifications and your position in greater detail.

Sincerely, First and Last Name, MD [Chief Resident] Optional, if applicable PGY[X]Name of Residency Program Department of [Specialty] Cell: (555) 555-5555 email: [email protected]

Here’s the Bottom Line:

A cover letter is just as important as your CV. It’s a way to separate yourself from other candidates applying for the position, showcase specific skills that are relevant to the job, and demonstrate that you have some connection or interest in the geographic location.

Looking for more information on physician job searches ? The Physicians Thrive blog features a variety of informational articles. Including how to work with a physician recruiter, the best places to live and work, and how to advance your career goals.

Finally, be sure to protect your interests before negotiations start. The best time to start is now, but be absolutely sure to read our contract review resources or contact Physicians Thrive for contract review guidance before you sign an employment agreement.

Subscribe to our email newsletter for expert tips about finances, insurance, employment contracts, and more!

About the Author

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Putting a little extra effort into these materials can help you make a good first impression with potential employers.

SARINA SCHRAGER, MD, MS

Fam Pract Manag. 2021;28(5):4-5

Applying for jobs can be exciting — and stressful. Business experts recommend diligent attention to developing your resume or CV (curriculum vitae) and writing a cover letter as these are the first things that any future employer will see about you. The CV and cover letter are concise ways to share details about your skills and accomplishments. A good CV and cover letter do not get you the job, but they may make you more likely to get an interview. A CV is basically a list of your education, accomplishments, and specific skills. It is normally accompanied by a cover letter that tells potential employers more about you, what you are looking for in a new job, and why you are the right person for the job they have advertised.

A CV for medical professionals includes several different sections. It should start with your full name and contact information. In the business world, most CVs include a concise, descriptive statement about your skills, but this is not always included on medical CVs.

The next section describes your education and training. Include your undergraduate degree, any graduate studies, medical school, residency, and fellowship. Extra training can be inserted here as well (for example, competency in obstetric ultrasound or colonoscopy, or extra training in evidence-based medicine or quality improvement).

The CV continues with descriptions of previous related jobs (it's OK to leave out your bartending stint in college), any presentations or publications, substantive committee work (e.g., if you chaired a committee, contributed to a significant change in practice, or spent a lot of time on a project), and relevant volunteer work. CVs feature very little narrative except to provide brief explanations where a bulleted list does not suffice.

Most physician employers are relatively conservative, so experts recommend using a simple font and limited color in your CV. Physician CVs can be as long as they need to be, but be careful to avoid including facts that are not relevant to medicine.

COVER LETTER TIPS

A cover letter allows you to expand on the bulleted list of accomplishments included in your CV. The cover letter is a place where you can be specific about why you are interested in a particular position and why your skills would be a good fit. While the CV lists all your accomplishments, the cover letter highlights unique skills that make you a good candidate for the job. It is important to do your homework, make sure you address the letter to the person doing the hiring, and demonstrate that you have read about the position and the organization by making specific statements about them.

Cover letters have three main components: 1) an introduction, 2) a short list of relevant work that highlights one or two positions or accomplishments, and 3) a conclusion. They should be no longer than one page. If you are applying for your first job out of residency, you can talk about the skills you have gained during your training and how they would be a good match for the job. You should write different cover letters for each job and not use a standard template. Each letter should include a specific detail about the particular practice, whether it is the patient population, the job description, or the location. You want to make sure the hiring manager knows that you are interested in that specific job.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Writing effective CVs and cover letters allows you to present yourself and your accomplishments in a professional and clear light. Putting a little extra time into these materials may make all the difference in getting the job you desire.

To help you write an effective CV:

Creating a standout CV . American Medical Association.

How to write a curriculum vitae . American Academy of Family Physicians.

How to write a medical CV . International Journal of Surgery Oncology .

What makes a good CV? FPM .

To help you write an effective cover letter:

Everything that physicians need to know about cover letters . Physicians Thrive.

How to write a cover letter . Harvard Business Review .

Physician cover letters: why writing a good one is as important as ever . NEJM CareerCenter.

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Physician Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Physician cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

how to write a cover letter medicine

Table of Contents

  • Physician Cover Letter Example 1
  • Physician Cover Letter Example 2
  • Physician Cover Letter Example 3

Physician Cover Letter Writing Tips

Physicians diagnose and treat diseases, injuries, and other physical and mental impairments. Their expertise and experience are crucial for medical facilities, so employers look for candidates with a solid education and extensive experience.

When you’re looking for a job as a physician, your cover letter is a great place to highlight your skills and experience. Follow these examples and tips to write a physician cover letter that impresses hiring managers.

Physician Cover Letter Example 1

I am writing this letter to present myself as a candidate for the Physician position within your organization. I am very excited about the opportunity to work in this capacity for your company and believe this position would be a perfect fit for someone with my unique skills, interests, and professional expertise. My extensive experiences in primary and continuing medical care management, coupled with strong academic background and relevant certifications, have equipped me with the critical abilities enabling me to contribute immediately in the fast-paced environment within your firm.

The positions that I have held, as listed in my attached resume, have given me the experience that would make me a strong candidate for this position with your company. Throughout my experience as a Medical Doctor and a Staff Physician professional, I have successfully provided strong and effective leadership, guidance and direction to team members while demonstrating efficient and innovative solutions to the complex issues facing the research projects and laboratory facility. In addition, I helped ensure that each function and operational aspect was conducted in a highly professional manner and adhered to corporate standards, industry regulations, and professional ethics. While conducting various hospital and clinical functions, I faced and overcame numerous challenges. My organization and analytical skills, combined with my professional attitude, have allowed me to successfully complete any work-related tasks to which I have been assigned.

During my tenure at each organization, I gained valuable insight into health program coordination, individualized patient care, health and physical examinations, clinical processes, hospital operations, patient needs assessment and education, and healthcare management. All of these experiences, among many others, afforded me invaluable opportunities to develop and enhance my leadership and collaboration skills.

Crucial to my success in these positions has been my ability to succeed in an environment where decision-making, self-motivation, a commitment to integrity and excellent communication skills are held at a premium. I truly believe that my skills, experience and character will enable me to offer as much to this position and your company as I’m sure it can offer to me. I sincerely thank you for your consideration of me for this exciting opportunity.

Physician Cover Letter Example 2

This letter is to express my interest in the Orthopedic Physician job opportunity with your esteemed Wellbeing Hospital in Dallas, TX.

I understand from your listed job requirements that you are looking for a physician who has prior experience in combat/non-combat casualty care in inpatient, outpatient, surgical, and ICU environments. I am pleased to inform you that I not only meet this requirement but am also someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment with challenging cases.

At present, I am employed with Sunshine Hospital in Dallas. My key responsibilities include, among others, the following:

  • Leading a team of six technicians and four physician assistants
  • Providing outstanding inpatient and outpatient care
  • Evaluating and admitting patients
  • Streamlining the desk operations
  • Managing scheduling, brace shop, and cast room services and personnel
  • Serving as first call for severe injuries

As noted on my resume, my key areas of expertise are orthopedics, surgical first assist, process improvements, trauma care, medical evaluation/admission, labs interpretation/radiographic studies, and sports medicine.

I have a friendly and compassionate nature and enjoy a good working relationship with colleagues and staff. These two inherent qualities and a strong spirit of cooperation allow me to provide the highest quality care to patients and support and contribute to the organization’s growth and prosperity.

In addition to my extensive experience, I offer you strong time-management and people-management skills. Given my intensive experience, strong qualifications, and a proven record as an Orthopedic Physician, I am sure I will be able to form a mutually-beneficial and long-lasting working relationship with your establishment.

Attached with this application is my resume. I am highly interested in joining a large and esteemed establishment such as yours and hope that you give me application due consideration.

Physician Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing in response to your advertisement for a Staff Physician that appeared in the Herald Daily Newspaper. The details of your requirements as listed in the ad have given me enough reasons to believe that I am a suitable candidate for this position. I am a Diplomate in Internal Medicine and have over seven years of experience in both hospital and clinic settings.

My education, training, and experience have given me an opportunity to develop a strong background in the field of Internal Medicine. Currently I am working as a Physician with Helping Hands Medical Centre’s Department of Medicine. In my present role of Physician-in-Charge for 2 clinics, I have had solid exposure to a range of disease states and health disorders, including a high volume of hepatitis, substance abuse, and HIV cases, as well as an above-average percentage of oncology, pulmonary, diabetes, and cardiac patients.

My key job responsibilities include the following:

  • Providing direct medical services to patients
  • Contributing in interdepartmental consultations
  • Supervising resident physicians, medical students, and mid-level staff
  • Participating in the development of medical services, including standard procedures, management of activities related to patient care, and standard procedures
  • Contributing towards the improvement of the efficiency of my department

In addition to the relevant skills so important for a Staff Physician job, I offer you a proven and unparalleled commitment to high-quality health care, first-class training and treatment skills, and an indubitable desire to continually improve the quality of life of the patients and my skills as a physician.

I have attached my resume with this application for your consideration. I am very much interested in becoming a part of your reputed establishment and hope that you would provide me with an opportunity to discuss my candidacy for the listed position further in a personal interview.

Address your application to a specific person

One of the most common mistakes job seekers make is not addressing their application to anyone in particular. Make sure you do so with your physician cover letter. If you don’t know who will be reviewing your application, call the company and ask. You can find the name by checking out their website or LinkedIn page.

If there are more than one people involved in reviewing applications, address it accordingly: To Whom It May Concern or Dear Hiring Manager(s). When doing this, include a brief description of how you connected with that person – it could be through mutual colleagues or by going through a recruiting agency.

Show how you can improve patient care

Whether you’re a newly minted doctor or someone who has been in practice for years, your cover letter should demonstrate how you have the knowledge and training to make your potential employer’s patients healthier.

To do this, quantify your accomplishments and provide concrete examples of how they can positively impact their bottom line (i.e., lower costs) or affect patient outcomes (i.e., increased efficiency). For example: “In my previous role as an emergency room physician, I decreased wait times by 15 minutes per visit by implementing new workflow processes that saved time and money. In addition, I reduced readmission rates by 20 percent over the course of six months through effective follow-up with patients discharged from our facility.”

Show your personality

Your cover letter is a great opportunity to show the hiring manager that you’re more than just a resume. You can use this opportunity to share your personality and interests as well as demonstrate leadership skills and communication abilities.

For example, you might mention that you love working with people or have experience communicating health information in a way that’s easy for patients to understand. This will help them see how they can incorporate these attributes into their workplace!

Proofread your cover letter

Physician cover letters are only as good as the proofreading behind them. Cover letters are often read by hiring managers who are looking for an excuse to disqualify applicants. An error in a cover letter, such as grammar or spelling, will likely give them one. Read over your work carefully before submission and be sure to have someone else proofread it if you can’t do so yourself.

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Medical Doctor Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Julia Gergelova — Resume Writer

Writing a medical doctor cover letter may seem daunting, but with the right tools and tips, you can craft a compelling narrative that catches the attention of prospective employers. This guide will provide insights and examples to help you master the art of cover letter writing.

Cardiologist Cover Letter Example

Remember, the goal is not merely to summarize your CV. Your cover letter should complement your resume , engaging HR in a way that makes them want to delve deeper into your qualifications.

Read on and learn all about:

  • Formatting your medical doctor cover letter
  • Writing an effective cover letter header
  • Crafting an eye-catching headline for your medical cover letter
  • Customizing your cover letter greeting
  • Writing a compelling cover letter introduction
  • Highlighting your skills and accomplishments in the body of your cover letter
  • Ending your cover letter persuasively
  • Avoiding common mistakes in a medical doctor cover letter
  • Average salary and job outlook for medical doctors
  • Medical doctor's resources

1. How to properly format your medical doctor cover letter

Correct formatting ensures that your cover letter is easy to read and professional . Use these guidelines to create a well-structured cover letter:

  • Font: Choose a standard, readable font such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. The size should be between 10 and 12 to maintain readability.
  • Margins and spacing: Aim for one-inch margins on all sides of your document. Spacing between lines should be 1.15 or 1.5 for an uncluttered look.
  • Alignment: The text should be left-aligned for maximum readability.
  • Sections: Divide your cover letter into four essential sections which include: your contact information and salutation, introduction, body, conclusion, and signature.
  • Brevity: Keep your cover letter concise. One page is sufficient. 
  • File format: Save your cover letter as a PDF to preserve formatting across different platforms. Name your files professionally, such as "John_Doe_CoverLetter.pdf"
  • Proofread: Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.
  • Consistency: Ensure your cover letter mirrors the formatting of your resume. This consistency applies to font style, size, heading styles and even the paper you're printing on if you're delivering a hard copy. It shows attention to detail and creates a cohesive application packet, making it more visually engaging and professional for the hiring manager. 

By keeping these formatting tips in mind, you'll ensure that your medical doctor cover letter is crisp, easy to navigate, and leaves a positive, professional impression on potential employers.

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2. how to create a medical doctor cover letter header.

The header is the initial part of your cover letter where you include your personal contact details and those of the employer. Correctly formatting the header is crucial since it sets the tone for the rest of your document .

Your header should include the following:

  • Your full name
  • Your professional title
  • Your address (street, city, state, zip code)
  • Your contact details (phone number, professional email address, optionally LinkedIn profile)
  • The recipient's name, title, organization name, and organization address

Incorrect medical doctor cover letter header

Dr. Sam, New York, [email protected], July 2021, Dr. Johnson, Hospital

Why is this example wrong? This header is incorrect because the information is incomplete and poorly presented. It doesn't clearly distinguish between the applicant's details and the recipient's. Plus, using an informal email can seem unprofessional. 

Correct medical doctor cover letter header

Dr. Samantha Green 123 Peach Street, New York, NY, 10001 +1 212-111-2222 [email protected] July 15, 2021

To: Dr. Henry Johnson Human Resources Director St. Patrick Hospital 7979 Blueberry Ave, New York, NY, 10002

Why is this example correct? This header is clear and complete. Each piece of information has its place and purpose, and it's also written in an easily readable format. The use of an email address further enhances the document's professionalism.

Always take the time to lay out your header correctly. It not only helps portray you as an organized professional, but it also ensures that potential employers have your information at a glance.

medical doctor cover letter header example

3. How to write a compelling medical doctor cover letter headline

Once you’ve got your header in place, the next crucial section is the headline. The headline is a single line statement that introduces you and your intention to apply for the specific role . This one-liner should be punchy, persuasive and leave the hiring manager intrigued to read more.

Here are a few tips to crafting a compelling headline:

  • Be specific: In this line, clearly state the position you're applying for. Explicit mention of the job title and perhaps the job reference number ensures that your application lands in the right pile.
  • Showcase your professionalism: Use your professional title or key certification in the headline. This immediately shows that you're qualified.
  • Highlight your value proposition: In a few words, summarize what unique value you bring to the role.

Let’s take a look at the following headline examples:

Incorrect medical doctor cover letter headline 

Looking for a Medical Doctor Job

Why is this example wrong? This headline is too vague and unprofessional. It doesn't state the specific job or offer any value proposition.

Correct medical doctor cover letter headline

Board-Certified Cardiologist with Proven Leadership Skills Seeks the Cardiology Consultant Position [#12345]

Why is this headline correct? Now, this headline adds a soft skill (leadership) to the mix, making it more compelling. Not only does it state the professional title and specific job but it also introduces an additional strength that could be relevant to the job.

The added value proposition gives the hiring manager a hint that you have more to offer beyond just your medical expertise. It invites them to delve deeper into your cover letter to find out more about your qualifications and unique offerings.

Your headline is the first taste of your cover letter content, so make it count. Leave your prospective employer looking forward to reading the rest of your cover letter.

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4. How to customize the greeting on your medical doctor cover letter

Starting your cover letter with a well-tailored greeting is the first step towards making a personal connection with your prospective employer . It shows respect, professionalism, and that you have taken the time to research the organization.

Here's why using a personalized greeting is vital:

  • Respect and professionalism: Addressing the hiring manager by their full name or title represents respect and acknowledges their position and authority within the organization.
  • Demonstrates your efforts: When you have taken the time to learn about the person to whom you are writing, it displays your genuine interest in the position and the lengths you're willing to go for it.
  • Breaks the impersonality: Customized salutations can make your cover letter feel less generic and more personal. 

Now let's explore some examples of greetings, their uses, and impacts:

  • Formal/Reserved: "Dear Dr. [Last Name]," — This is the most professional greeting, especially when you're sure of the hiring manager's name and title. 
  • Neutral/General: "Dear [Team/Department Name] Hiring Manager," — Use this salutation only if you can't find the specific hiring manager's name, but you know the team or department. 
  • Last resort: "Dear Hiring Manager," — You can use this phrase when you have exhausted all options to find a name or specific department.

Here a few examples of personalized greetings on a cover letter

  • Dear Hiring Manager Alex Peterson,
  • Dear Mr. Peterson
  • Dear Dr. Peterson,
  • Dear Alex Peterson,

Always prioritize finding the hiring manager's name, but be careful to use it correctly. If unsure about their title or gender, it's better to stick to neutral phrases like 'Hiring Manager' to avoid any faux pas.

Sports Medicine Doctor Cover Letter Example

5. How to write a compelling introduction to your medical doctor cover letter

The opening paragraph of your medical doctor cover letter directly influences the impression potential employers form about you. The introduction should succinctly cover your career and academic background, purpose for seeking the position, and mention any shared connections, if any. 

Experienced medical doctor cover letter introduction example

Dear Dr. Thompson,

As a seasoned Geriatrician with over ten years of experience in providing compassionate care in high-stress hospital environments, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my expertise to the Geriatric Medicine opening at Wellspring Health Center. I have always admired Wellspring's patient-centric approach and innovative medical practices. Notably, Dr. Anderson, Chief of Internal Medicine at your facility and a former colleague, suggested I apply, believing my patient handling skills and dedication would contribute positively to your institution.

Why is this opening strong? This opening statement packs a punch with a demonstration of robust experience, a clear reason for applying, and a mutual connection suggesting a fit for the company culture. 

Fresh medical graduate cover letter introduction example

Having just completed my residency in Pediatrics at City General Hospital, I am eager to apply for the Pediatrician position at Wellspring Health Center. I believe your clinic's focus on combining cutting-edge research with attentive patient care matches my ambitions perfectly for a fulfilling practice. Samuel Martin, a senior faculty member at CGH and alumni of your facility, recommended I consider your institution for its nurturing and comprehensive care environment.

Why is this opening compelling? For a fresh graduate, underlining the successful completion of relevant education, expressing their motivation, and validating their choice through a mentor's suggestion can significantly resonate.

All in all, ensuring your introduction is tailored, concise, and compelling invites the employer to read further, significantly boosting your chances of consideration.

6. Highlight your top skills and accomplishments as a medical doctor

After the introduction, it's time to lay out the substance of your medical doctor cover letter — your skills and accomplishments . Here, you persuasively illustrate why you'd be an ideal fit for the role and for the organization. 

The body of your cover letter should be divided into two or three short paragraphs. Start with your most significant achievement or an aspect of your work that sets you apart. Then, delve into your relevant expertise, experiences, and skills . Be specific and try to link your abilities to the requirements mentioned in the job description.

For instance, instead of merely stating that you possess excellent diagnostic skills, narrate a brief instance where your diagnostic ability made a significant difference in patient care or treatment outcome.

  • For professionals with experience , you can discuss contributions you've made at your current or past place of work. Quantifying these achievements with percentages, numbers, or time frames can give them more impact. For example:

Seasoned medical doctor cover letter body paragraphs example

In my role as a General Practitioner at HealthFirst Medical, I led a dedicated team of healthcare professionals to streamline our patient triage system. We successfully managed to reduce patient wait times by 30% over a 6-month period. This achievement not only increased patient satisfaction rates, but also enabled our team to operate in a more calm, collected and efficient manner.

Moreover, I also spearheaded the implementation of a new electronic health record system, which enhanced our medical documentation efficiency by 40%. My ability to manage change and lead innovation without disrupting service delivery further solidified my leadership skills and dedication to efficient healthcare

  • If you've recently graduated and lack professional experience, focus on your rotations, internships, or any special projects during your medical training. What did you learn? Did you receive any commendation for your efforts? Highlighting such experiences portrays your commitment, enthusiasm, and learning potential. 

Fresh graduate cover letter body paragraphs example

During my final year of medical school, I was part of a team managing an infectious disease breakout during my pediatric rotation at Grand City Hospital. Our efforts were focused on both treatment of affected patients and preventive measures within the community.

We successfully reduced the spread of the disease by 50% within the first month. My role was primarily patient management and I was directly responsible for monitoring patient symptoms and the effectiveness of treatments. The head of the Department acknowledged my consistent efforts and iterated that my actions helped deliver exceptional patient care under pressure. This experience amplified my passion for pediatrics and strengthened my crisis management skills.

Each paragraph in these examples is focused on a singular achievement or experience but paints a broader picture of the candidate's professional assets. Always remember, the objective is to pique interest and encourage the hiring manager to explore your skills further via your resume or an interview .

7. How to conclude persuasively your medical doctor cover letter

The conclusion of your medical doctor cover letter holds significant importance. It is your closing argument , the final opportunity to persuade the reader of your suitability for the position. It also lays out the next steps in your application process. 

In your conclusion:

  • Summarize your competence for the role in a sentence or two
  • Reiterate your enthusiasm about the opportunity
  • Indicate your availability for further discussion
  • Include details on how and when you can be best contacted and your plan for follow-up
  • Sign off professionally

Here’s an example of a strong cover letter conclusion

The prospect of bringing my patient-centered care and diagnostic expertise to the medical team at Wellspring Health Center genuinely excites me. Available at your earliest convenience, I welcome the opportunity to explore how I can contribute to maintaining and improving patient care standards at your facility. I will touch base next week to follow up on my application. However, please do not hesitate to contact me at your convenience, via phone (555-555-5555) or email ([email protected]). 

Thank you for considering my application.

[Your Full Name]

This conclusion is succinct yet comprehensive, conveying excitement and forward momentum in the application process. It ends on a respectful note, with a professional sign-off. 

Remember, your overall aim is to leave a lasting, positive impression on the hiring manager, urging them to take the next steps with you.

medical doctor cover letter conclusion tips

8. How to avoid common mistakes in a medical doctor cover letter

Your medical doctor cover letter is your opportunity to make a good first impression. However, certain common missteps could derail your chances of landing that coveted role. Here are some tips to help you avoid those errors:

  • Sending generic cover letters: Customizing your cover letter for each application is critical. Using generic, "one-size-fits-all" cover letters implies a lack of effort and interest. Tailor each cover letter to the specific role and organization.
  • Including too much information: While it's essential to provide enough detail to pique the employer's interest, avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive information. Stick to highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences.
  • Failing to proofread: Errors in punctuation, grammar, or spelling can convey negligence and lack of attention to detail. Always double-check your cover letter for mistakes. 
  • Writing in a complicated style: Write as clearly and simply as possible while maintaining a professional tone. Avoid using jargon or overly complex language.
  • Talking too much about yourself: While it's important to market yourself, the employer also wants to know how you can add value to their organization. Ensure you balance information about yourself with how your skills and abilities can benefit prospective employers.
  • Forgetting to follow instructions: If the job ad asks for specific information or a certain format, make sure you adhere to these requirements.

By keeping in mind these common pitfalls and how to navigate them, your medical doctor cover letter is much more likely to stand out and make a lasting impression on potential employers. 

9. Average salary and job outlook for medical doctors

If you're considering a career in medicine or already on that path, it's essential to understand the job market and salary expectations. 

According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average yearly salary for a medical doctor was approximately $229,300 as of May 2022. This figure, however, can vary widely depending on specialty, experience, and geographic location.

In terms of job outlook, the BLS projects a steady growth for the medical profession. Overall employment of medical doctors is expected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032. This growth rate is on par with the average for all occupations. 

Although the growth percentage might not seem high, in real terms, it represents a significant number of job openings given the size of the field. Specifically, about 24,200 openings for medical doctors are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

10. Medical doctor’s resources

Feeling lost while job hunting as a medical doctor? Don't worry. There are plenty of resources to help you find your way:

  • Networking platforms: LinkedIn allows you to create a professional profile, network with other medical professionals, join relevant groups, and search for job openings. What’s more, you can easily turn your LinkedIn profile into a polished resume with just one click!
  • Professional associations: Associations like the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Association of Physician Specialists (AAPS) provide opportunities for networking, professional development, and job listings.
  • Job search sites: Health eCareers , PracticeLink , DocCafe and MedJobCafe are some of the many job boards specifically tailored to healthcare professionals.
  • Online courses: Various platforms offer online courses to enhance your skill set and knowledge. Websites like Coursera or Khan Academy have collaborations with top universities and organizations to provide high-quality, relevant courses for medical professionals. This not only enhances your learning but also adds value to your CV.
  • Residency programs: For those embarking on their professional journey, consider a residency program. These enlisted on the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) database offer hands-on experience in the medical field while under the supervision of an experienced physician.
  • Medical journals: Subscribing and regularly reading relevant medical journals like The New England Journal of Medicine or The Lancet can keep you abreast with the latest medical trends, research, and news in your specialty area. It helps to be knowledgeable about changes in the field during interviews.

Remember, hunting for a job as a medical doctor involves both showcasing your unique skills and standing out from the crowd. By availing yourself of these resources, you'll be well-equipped to find and secure the right position for you.

Medical Doctor Cover Letter FAQ

While both documents complement each other, they serve different purposes . A resume is a concise summary of your skills, experiences, and achievements. A cover letter, on the other hand, is a personalized letter to the employer explaining why you're the right fit for the specific job role.

A cover letter should ideally be one page long. Keep it concise yet impactful, ensuring you've highlighted your most relevant skills, experiences, and why you're a good fit for the role.

If you're early in your career, emphasize your medical training, rotations, or internships in your cover letter. Discuss influential projects or coursework and any commendations you've received.

Typically, a job application requires you to submit both your resume and cover letter. Follow the instructions provided in the job listing. If unsure, it's better to include both.

It's best to tailor your cover letter to each job you're applying for. Using the same cover letter may make you appear less invested in the specific role, reducing your chances of landing the job. Always align your cover letter with the requirements of the particular job listing.

Julia Gergelova — Resume Writer

Julia Gergelova

Julia is a professional writer, translator and graphic designer. She holds degrees in translation and interpretation, and has international work experience from a number of different countries in Europe as well as China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and as a graphic designer contributed to outlets such as  The Business of Business . She has a passion for lifelong learning and good coffee.

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Why does a medical cover letter keep importance even if you have all the essential information in your resume?

Well, your medical resume might have all the professional information, but a medical cover letter can showcase what kind of person you are and what qualities you possess.

According to research, the United States medical job market will encounter 2.6 million new job openings between 2020 to 2030 . Still, you can not expect easy competition on these job openings as the population is increasing rapidly.

A medical cover letter can make your job application better than your competitors and might also impress the recruiter during the screening round. Considering this, we are here with the answers to the following medical cover letter building queries:

  • Why should you write a medical cover letter?
  • How do you write a medical cover letter?
  • What are the important sections of a medical cover letter?
  • What should you do and avoid in a medical cover letter?

Why Should You Write a Medical Cover Letter?

A medical cover letter will help you showcase your achievements, qualities, or any other mind-blowing thing you have done in your career. Cover letters possess information absent in the resume as a backup during the recruitment process.

Like any other profession, you can add your achievements and specializations to your medical cover letter to impress the recruiter and enhance your shortlisting chances. We recommend writing a cover letter along with a resume while applying for a job to emphasize the effectiveness of their job application.

Also Read: How to build Physician Assistant Cover Letter in 2022?

How Should You Start Writing Your Medical Cover Letter?

You can initiate writing your medical cover letter by choosing a suitable format.

Your job application must be professional and impressive enough to stand apart from the crowd of other applicants. For that, you need to use a professional cover letter template and check the following details in your cover letter before submitting it:

  • Your contact details and LinkedIn profile
  • The hiring manager’s contact details
  • Company name & address
  • Personal greeting. For example, ‘Dear Mr. Dumbledoor’
  • Introduction paragraph
  • Skill-focused second paragraph
  • Research-focused third paragraph
  • Professional sign off

What are the Important Sections of a Medical Cover Letter?

Writing a medical cover letter can be tough for you without expert guidelines. You can refer to the online medical cover letter examples to craft your physician cover letter. But, you will not be able to create an effective one without practical steps.

Hence, we are elaborating on the guidelines for creating a highly impactful medical scribe cover letter in 2022:

Medical Cover Letter Header

The header of your medical cover letter must include:

  • Your name & contact information
  • Submission date
  • The recruiter's name & designation
  • The targeted company name & address

Here is the format that you can follow while creating the header of your sample medical cover letter:

Your Name Current Job Profile Email Address Phone Number LinkedIn Profile

Submission Date-

Recruiter’s Name Designation Organization name Address

Dear Mr./Ms. (Recruiter's Name),

Medical Cover Letter Introduction

The first paragraph of your medical cover letter works as an introduction. Hence, you must frame it professionally in an easy-to-read English language. Here you can showcase the position you are applying for, work experience, educational background, and any achievement related to the target job profile.

Medical Cover Letter Body

In the second paragraph, you can showcase your skills in line with the applied profile. Here you can mention your qualities and skills admired by your previous employers. You can also mention the highlighting achievements of your professional journey in this part of your medical receptionist cover letter.

Medical Cover Letter Final Paragraph

You can showcase the research you have done in the last paragraph. The research can be related to the profile, healthcare unit, or hospital you are applying to. We recommend you add some nice things for the hospital or clinic along with the value that you can add in the last paragraph. Give them a reason to consider you for the next round in this paragraph.

Medical Cover Letter Sign Off

Lastly, you can sign off professionally with a thanking note and a statement that you are looking for a positive response. Wrap up the medical cover letter with your full name.

Also Read: How to write a Lab Technician Cover Letter in 2022?

What Should You Practice & Avoid in a Medical Cover Letter

You must keep certain things in mind while creating your medical cover letter. Moreover, you will also need to avoid certain things for a personalized and professional tone in your medical cover letter.

Things you must practice:

  • Address recruiters with their full name instead of 'To Whom it May Concern'
  • Keep a positive tone and show your dedication towards the medical niche
  • Attach letters of references if you have any strong connection already working in that hospital
  • Wrap your letter up with a call to action by requesting the recruiter for a call or meeting in person

Things you must avoid:

  • Don’t sound too desperate for the job, even it is an ideal position
  • Try to sell your skills instead of manipulating the recruiter to hire you
  • Avoid humor or sarcasm and be professional throughout your medical cover letter
  • Do not mention any negative information regarding your previous work or colleagues

Pro Tips to Polish Your Medical Cover Letter

You can not write an impressive and professional medical cover letter without expert guidance in 2022. Your medical cl must be unique, easy-to-read, and address every requirement to shortlist you during the screening time.

Considering this, we are listing some points that will help you enhance the effectiveness of your medical cover letter:

  • Read The Job Description

Read the job description before writing your medical cover letter. It will give you a clear vision on the job requirements. Then you can frame your cover letter accordingly addressing all the requirements.

  • Do Not Repeat Your Details

You must ensure that the details you are writing in your medical cover letter is not present in the resume. Repetition of information might degrade the effectiveness of your application. Hence, we suggest you add unique skills, and capabilities in your medical cover letter.

  • Quantify Your Achievements

You must quantify your achievements and capabilities in your medical cover letter. It will make your information unique even if you repeat some skills and capabilities.

  • Add a CTA Statement at The End

We recommend adding a CTA statement at the end of your cover letter. You can state, 'I will be waiting for a positive response' or 'let us talk more in detail via email or in-person', or anything similar to take things forward.

Key Takeaways

Building a medical assistant cover letter can consume a lot of your time, even if you refer to an online physician cover letter example. However, you can minimize the time by following these practical medical cover letter building guidelines:

  • Outline your cover letter in a professional medical cover letter format
  • Greet recruiters by their name instead of random greeting format like Dear sir/ma’am
  • Use easy-to-read English language in a positive tone while writing your cover letter for medical jobs
  • Introduce yourself impressively with your education, experience, and accomplishments in the first paragraph
  • Mention your skills, qualities, and something from your previous role relatable to the applied profile in the second paragraph
  • Write whatever you liked about the hospital or clinic culture and the reason why the recruiter must hire you in the third paragraph
  • Sign off nicely with a thanking note and your full name at the end of your medical assistant cover letter

You can use these guidelines to build a job-winning cover letter for medical jobs. However, if you want to save time and dodge the process of analyzing sample medical cover letter templates online, you can check out Hiration’s 360-degree Career Service Platform .

It is based on AI technology, and its 24/7 chat support is a great plus in your overall operational experience.

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Career Resources Cover Letters and References

  • Career Resources
  • Cover Letters and References
  • Cover letters typically accompany a curriculum vitae (CV).
  • Reference letters should only be provided upon request.

Cover Letters

What is a cover letter.

You may be considering whether or not you should include it in your application. Your cover letter is used to elaborate on your CV in further detail. It gives you the opportunity to highlight your strengths, describe your professional goals and give the employer a deeper look at you as a person.

Cover letters follow a very basic format. The letter should be adtressed to the employer and should consist of an introductory paragraph, a body paragraph, and a closing paragraph (or conclusion).

As we previously mentioned, your cover letter will be accompanying your CV, so all details in your CV should not also be in your cover letter. Your cover letter should explain why you are a perfect fit for the job. It is also important that you are direct in your letter. Do not use generic language and be sure to tailor your cover letter to each opportunity you apply for. Try to include the organization's name, the recruiter's name, and location somewhere in your letter naturally.

Your cover letter also gives you the opportunity to discuss your professional aspirations. This is where you should mention what type of practice is the most ideal for you and what you are looking to do in the future. Explain why and how this opportunity lines up with your future goals.

It is also acceptable to include personal reasons for applying to an opportunity. You aren't able to do this in your CV, so you should include it in your cover letter. Mentioning personal reasons for applying to an opportunity helps employers see you as a human rather than just a physician.

Reference Letters

Who should i use.

The references you choose should be people who are willing to write positive letters for you. You could choose a program director, attending physician or anyone else that you work closely with at your organization. Make sure that whoever you choose knows what your duties are on a daily basis. They should also know more about you than the fact that you work together on rounds. If you practice medicine at multiple locations, try to pick someone at each location to write you a reference letter.

How do I know who to pick?

Be sure to screen your candidates. Just because you choose someone to write a letter of recommendation for you does not mean that they will write to the best of their ability. Find out who your best promoters will be by asking them questions.

  • Would you be willing to write me a reference letter?
  • How would you describe me to others?
  • Would you be willing to give an example of my skills?
  • Do you have time to write me a letter or be contacted by a potential employer?

You should ask your references to include things about you in their letter that are relevant to the job you are applying for. For example, if a job you are applying for requires you to be a team player, ask your references to give examples of you being a team player

Although you may be worried that your references won't know what to say about you in their letters, you can coach them on what they should include. You should also provide each of your references with information about the job(s) you are applying for, so that they can write a letter specific to each opportunity. If you find that you are still nervous about the contents of the letters, read them before sending them off. With that being said, do not change anything about the letter without permission from the reference. If there are errors of any kind, reach out to the reference(s) and ask them to adjust the letter.

Can I use a past reference?

Using a past reference is fine as long as you confirm with them that they are okay being a reference for you. If you have not worked with them in awhile, they may no longer be okay with being a reference for you.

How do I list out my references?

You should have three to six references who will write letters for you and agree to being contacted by a potential employer to provide a reference for you. If any of them have asked to be listed as confidential, make sure that you do so. You should include each reference's title, name, medical organization, and the nature of the reference (personal or professional). Even after you've gained permission to use someone as a reference, you should always make sure you request their preferred method of contact and list only that method.

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Physician Cover Letter Examples

Including tips and strategies for writing the best cover letter.

Physician Cover Letter Examples

If you are a physician looking to secure your dream job, then you must take a look at our physician cover letter examples. Often overlooked, cover letters can be the application component that makes you stand out. Whether you are working on your job applications alone or with a physician career advisor , it’s important to know what a cover letter should entail and how to write it. In our article, we will share expert tips on physician cover letter standards, format, and provide you with stellar physician cover letter examples to inspire your own!

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 12 min read

Why is a cover letter important.

Physician cover letters are often neglected because they usually cannot convey the wealth of experience the applicant possesses. Unlike a CV, a cover letter is a short document, usually no more than 3-5 paragraphs long, so you must be extremely careful about what you decide to include. But if you plan correctly, a cover letter can truly be the optimal way to demonstrate why you are the best candidate for a position.

Essentially, a physician cover letter is your chance to really demonstrate your desire for and dedication to the position you are applying to. A CV cannot do that! A CV or a resume can outline why you possess appropriate education, skills, and experiences, but they cannot express why you want to pursue the positions you apply to. And that’s where a cover letter comes in. In a cover letter, you can express your genuine interest and commitment, as well as suitability. And while the credentials on your CV are important, the hiring committees want to see sincere interest from applicants, which can only be conveyed on paper via a cover letter.

Furthermore, a cover letter is also an application component that humanizes the candidate. It gives a real sense of the person behind the CV or resume. And while the latter are essential in the committee’s decision-making, a cover letter can give them a sense of your personality, background, and even interests. It's always great to have an accomplished professional on your healthcare team. But having a professional who possesses great communication and interpersonal skills, or a professional who demonstrates true commitment to their team is a much bigger coup. It is no wonder that residency program directors consider interpersonal skills and interactions with the team as the most important factors when it comes to making their rank order list. Use the cover letter to demonstrate these skills and your dedication even before you are called into an interview! And in this article, we will show you how to do just that!

Are you a resident planning your future after completing your training?

Why You Are Interested in the Position/Your Suitability

Your physician cover letter must convey why the job ad or the job itself caught your eye. Why is this your dream job? Why are you sending this letter? Sometimes, to convey this, it takes more than a sentence or two, or a paragraph; you may use the entirety of the letter to convey this interest.

Some useful tips for showing this interest may include:

Other connections, such as geography, colleagues, past work experience in the institution, etc. "}]">

But at the same time, your interest must be backed up by your own background and experiences. It’s not enough to say that the job seems interesting to you – you must have informed interest that comes from skills and events in your life. While you are expressing interest, don't forget to emphasize your suitability at the same time. Show what you can contribute to the team and the institution.

How You Can Help Improve Patient Care

As a physician, your number one priority is always patients. If you are applying for a clinical position, then your cover letter should also indicate how you can help improve patient care at the institution you are applying to. This can be as simple as demonstrating great past experiences, like this:

“During my time at the walk-in clinic, I minimized wait time by 10 minutes by implementing a new software system that ended up saving time and money for both the clinic and the patients.”

In addition to demonstrating that you are an innovative thinker and problem-solver, this sentence shows that you care about solving the wait times and financial burdens that come with healthcare.

Essentially, your cover letter should indicate that the institution will gain better patient care options by hiring you. While you do not have to cure cancer or resolve the healthcare budget issues, it would be beneficial if you can show how you have helped patients have better healthcare experiences before.

This might seem less relevant, but your geographical ties to the position might be the one tie-breaker that surprises you. Having geographical ties to an institution, a city, or a state/province, indicates that you want to stay and practice in the area. Retention is a very serious issue in healthcare. By demonstrating that you have history, family, or, simply, interest in working in the area long-term, you are further showing genuine interest in the position.

Be specific. You should not go on a long tirade about the geographical area. Try to showcase your dedication very subtly, like so:

“Having grown up and started a family in X town, I want to continue dedicating my professional knowledge and experience to improve the lives of X citizens.”

Simple but effective. This sentence demonstrates that the applicant grew up in this town, which means she knows the kind of population she will be serving. Plus, she has already started a family here, which means she is really settled and ready to start or continue her professional life here.

Are you wondering about what kind of income you can expect? Check out this video:

Important Do’s and Don’ts

Before we jump into the discussion of how to write your cover letter, let’s go over some important rules and standards of cover letter etiquette:

Do Create a Narrative

Your cover letter is not a list! This is one of the biggest mistakes candidates make when they create this application component. They start to list all the accomplishments that make them look suitable for the position – and while this may seem like an appropriate approach, a cover letter has a completely different purpose! Remember, you have your CV or resume to demonstrate why you are suitable for the position “on paper”; your education, skills, experiences, awards, and so on, are all listed on the CV, so it’s not worth repeating the same items in your cover letter.

Your cover letter should be a narrative. As a physician, you have experience creating compelling narratives in your medical school personal statement and your residency statement . And while the cover letter will be slightly shorter, its objective is quite similar to the application essays. Your cover letter should demonstrate why you want and deserve the position via a strong, compelling story. We will be going into more detail about what exactly to include in the narrative, but first, it's important to remember the first rule of cover letter writing: you are creating a short essay.

Do Tailor to Each Position

Before you even start writing your letter, make sure to research the position you are applying to. You must have done so already if you are interested in it, but make sure to review what kind of work the position involves, what kind of skills are important for the position, and what kind of goals and mission are emphasized by the institution you are pursuing. Tailor your cover letter to emphasize your relevant skills, background, and interests. This does not mean that you have to embellish or lie – simply try to reflect on what kind of skills and experiences from your life can relate to these requirements and values.

Additionally, when you start writing, do not forget to address your letter to a specific person or hiring committee. You want to showcase genuine dedication and interest, so simply addressing the letter “To Whom It May Concern” is impersonal and, frankly, forgettable. Do your best to research who will be reviewing your application.

Don’t Skip Soft Skills

Your CV is the place to really highlight your hard skills, such as your specialty training, your experiences in the field, your research background, and so on. But your cover letter should be able to give a glimpse into your personality and soft skills that are highly valued by hiring committees. For example, writing a compelling and strong narrative in your cover letter is so important – it shows your written communication skills and critical thinking skills. By showing that you are able to articulate your thoughts concisely, you show that you can pinpoint the most important aspects of your candidacy and highlight them appropriately.

In your cover letter, you can also emphasize soft skills like ethical proclivity, professionalism, leadership, and even commitment to the specialty. Remember, it's important to try and show rather than tell the reader about these qualities. For example, instead of simply saying “I am dedicated to professional ethics, and I have leadership skills”, you can write:

“As the head of the Center for Healthcare Ethics during my tenure with the X residency program, I have dedicated much of my time creating awareness of dementia and related patient treatment in Arkansas. I believe I can affect more change in making the lives of these patients better as a member of your team in X clinic.”

This sentence demonstrates that:

That he has a dedication to improving healthcare and awareness for a specific state "}]">

Do Address Gaps

If you have any gaps or setbacks in your resume or CV, a cover letter is a perfect place to briefly address them. Do not take up the entire space to make excuses for these problems, but try to explain why x, y, or z happened. For example, if you have a large gap in your resume due to illness or if you had to take a leave of absence from your position, address it like so:

“Having had to take a prolonged leave of absence from my position due to cancer diagnosis, I am more than eager to return to working with patients and doing my best to promote their well-being and health.”

Remember not to dwell on the gap or the setback. A brief explanation is best. If the hiring committee wants to further investigate it, you will be asked about this issue in the interview. And keep in mind that if there is a reasonable explanation for the setback in your cover letter, then the setback should not prevent the hiring committee from speaking with you in person. Leaving the gap or the setback unaddressed is more of a red flag than including a brief explanation in your letter.

Don’t Just Repeat CV/resume

It’s worth repeating that your cover letter is not a CV, so do not simply repeat the same information in your cover letter. While you can certainly bring up the jobs or positions you list in the CV, use the cover letter to express items you cannot include in the CV, such as your genuine interest in the position, your connection to the institution you are applying to, your connection to the geographical area, your soft skills, your background, and so on. You have a limited amount of space to convey your suitability for the position, so repeating the same information in the same format throughout your job application is just not a wise approach.

Your physician cover letter should not be more than a page, so around 3 to 5 paragraphs long. Use professional language and avoid a colloquial tone. Make sure to structure it as an academic essay, with an intro, body, and conclusion:

In the conclusion, restate your interest and include one last strong argument for why you would be the perfect fit for this position. This last little argument can help you make the cover letter and therefore your candidacy more memorable! You can also offer to answer any further questions and express interest in meeting in person. ","label":"Conclusion","title":"Conclusion"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

In the heading of your cover letter, don’t forget to include your contact info, such as your full name, address, email, and telephone number. 

Check out the golden rule of writing any professional letter or statement:

Physician Cover Letter Example #1

Paula Alvarez

123 X Street, Fresno CA, 93711

123-456-7890

[email protected]

Dear Dr. Johnson,

I am writing in response to the Family Staff Physician position posted in the X City Daily Newspaper, Job ID 1234, located in Orange Cove, California. I am a young, but experienced family doctor, with more than 7 years of clinical experience in Fresno County. I believe my dedication, skills, and experience will be a valuable addition to your institution. Having lived in California all my life, I received my education and training in some of the best medical programs in the country. Throughout my education, I was driven by the desire to become a physician who advocates for healthcare accessibility for low-income households and vulnerable populations. 

After graduating from Stanford Medical School , I was trained and served as a primary-care doctor at the St. Agnes Medical Center for 7 years. During my tenure, I operated as a staff physician, serving over 150 patients from low-income backgrounds per week. This experience exposed me to a variety of disorders that continue to plague the vulnerable populations of California, including HIV, hepatitis, substance abuse, as well as a variety of other health problems that were often neglected by my patients.

As a result, I became involved in the promotion of the Low-Income Health Program to help bring healthcare to low-income and vulnerable populations of Fresno County. Furthermore, I joined the board of the California Department of Health Care Services to promote initiatives that further alleviate the financial burden of healthcare for low-income families. We have made significant improvements to the lives of Californians by instating payment reforms and lifting policies forbidding physicians from serving immigrants without proper paperwork.

What I would like to bring to the X Hospital of Orange Cove is a proven dedication to first-rate healthcare to all patients regardless of their class or socio-economic status. The mission and goals of your institution greatly align with my own - I have vast experience working with the type of population that makes up the majority of your patients. Not only does my experience show that I am dedicated to working with low-income and vulnerable populations, but my fluency in Spanish will also help me communicate easier with a large part of our patients.

I attach my CV with this application for your review. I am very interested in becoming a part of your establishment and I hope that you can provide me with an opportunity to discuss my candidacy for the position in more detail in a personal interview.

Physician Cover Letter Example #2

567 ABC street, Kelowna, BC, V1P 1U8

098-765-4320

Dear Dr. Rosen,

This letter is to express my interest in the Pediatric Immunologist position with the X Hospital in Toronto, ON. I am an experienced pediatrician, having worked with immune-compromised children for the last 17 years and I would like nothing more than to contribute my knowledge and experience to the healthcare efforts of your esteemed establishment. I have been advised of this position by your colleague, Dr. Palmer, who has assured me that I would be the perfect candidate for this position.

For the last 10 years, I have been working as a pediatric immunologist at X hospital in Y city, British Columbia. Within 3 years of my tenure at this institution, I was promoted to the head of the Pediatrics Department, having had a significant impact on research developments in the field and on patient care practices. My contributions to the treatment research have led to significant developments in treatments for young patients with allergies and skin conditions. My work on psoriasis has been published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and recognized by my colleagues all over the world.

During my time as a researcher, I never left clinical practice. The well-being and healthcare of my patients remained my main concern. The more I worked with children, the more I understood the gravity of my responsibility before my patients and their families. I did everything in my power to improve the healthcare experience for my young patients. My colleagues and I created playrooms where the children could play with their peers and families while they wait for their appointments. We provided toys, games, and allergy-free snacks for our patients to enjoy. This initiative has been especially supported by the parents, who claim that their children were much more eager to attend our appointments since the playrooms were introduced. 

I have loved working with my colleagues and patients in Y city, BC, but I have always longed to return to Ontario. I grew up and attended university in Toronto. Currently, my family and I are looking to return to Ontario, as my wife is also from Toronto. When I was told of this opportunity, I wasted no time preparing my application. I am ready to exceed your expectations and to dedicate my most sincere efforts to improving the health and the healthcare experience of my patients in Toronto.

My CV is enclosed with this letter. I am highly interested in joining your dynamic and esteemed team and hope that you give my application due consideration. I sincerely thank you for your time.

Best wishes,

A cover letter allows you to express your interest in a specific job. While your CV may remain mostly the same for each position you may apply to, a cover letter will allow you to demonstrate what exactly attracted you to each position and why you would be a great fit for each position you pursue.

It should be no longer than a page.

Use academic essay structure with an intro, body, and conclusion.

Yes, each cover letter should address the person who is in charge of the hiring process or who will be supervising you in the position. Try to find out who will be reading your application and address the cover letter directly to them. You may find this information in the job ad, on the institution’s website, or you may want to call the institution and ask who is in charge of the hiring process.

Express your genuine interest in the position and why you are a good fit. Also, try to include some geographical connection you have to the position, the city, or the state.

Unless you are explicitly asked not to submit a cover letter, always include a cover letter as part of your application.

No, your physician cover letter should be a narrative and not a list.

You can discuss the most important jobs or positions, but try to extrapolate on your significant experiences by adding details and events that cannot be found in your CV.

Yes, you should. 

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Scientific Publishing in Biomedicine: How to Write a Cover Letter?

Zahra bahadoran.

1 Nutrition and Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Parvin Mirmiran

Khosrow kashfi.

2 Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education, School of Medicine, City University of New York, New York, USA

Asghar Ghasemi

3 Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

A cover (covering) letter is a brief business letter introducing the scientific work alongside the submission process of a manuscript and is required by most scientific peer-review journals. A typical cover letter includes the name of the editor and the journal, date of submission, the characteristics of the manuscript, the importance of the work and its relevance to prospective audiences, declarations such as author agreements, conflicts of interest statement, funding source (s), and ethical statements. The letter also includes the contact information of the corresponding author (s) and may also include suggestions of potential reviewers. Spending enough time to draft an informative, comprehensive, and concise cover letter is quite worthwhile; a poorly drafted one would not persuade the editor that the submitted work is fit for publication and may lead to immediate rejection. Here, we provide a practical guide to draft a well-written, concise, and professional cover letter for a scientific medical paper.

The Cambridge dictionary defines a cover letter as “a letter that contains information about the thing it is sent with”. The cover letter is commonly known as a motivation letter submitted along with the curriculum vitae (CV) or a job application for employment ( 1 ) or academic position ( 2 ), and it is not clear why and how it was introduced into the scientific field ( 3 ). In scientific writing and publishing, a cover/covering letter is a letter to the editor’s target journal ( 4 ).

Providing a cover letter alongside the submission process is now required by most scientific journals. In fact, some high-quality and prestigious journals pay specific attention to the cover letter ( 3 ). Amongst the different steps of the publication process, the cover letter is the last step and is often overlooked ( 5 ). One of the most common complaints voiced by editors regarding submitted manuscripts is that the authors neglect to write a well-written cover letter, including a statement justifying the importance of their work ( 6 ). Missing this opportunity may have unintentional consequences, rejection without further consideration instead of being sent for external peer-review ( 5 , 6 ). Contrary to this view, some believe that the cover letter’s content overlaps with the manuscript’s abstract and gives mostly redundant information already found within the online submission system ( 3 ). The cover letter may also be a “misleading commercial advertisement” where it would not represent the content of the manuscript ( 3 ).

Although many editors may not read or seriously consider the cover letters of the submitted manuscripts ( 3 , 4 ), neglecting the importance of the cover letter may be a risk for the authors. Therefore, spending an adequate amount of time to write a coherent and persuasive cover letter is worth it. Following our previous publication on choosing a journal in a new series entitled Scientific Publishing in Biomedicine ( 7 ), here, we provided a practical guide to draft a well-written, professional, and concise cover letter needed to be accompanied by an original scientific paper, either with the initial submission or subsequently at revision/resubmitting stage. Since there are subtle differences in writing a cover letter for an original research paper versus a review article or an opinion, some points for drafting a cover letter for such papers are also discussed.

2. The Function of the Cover Letter

A cover letter is “a brief business letter”, which introduces the submitted manuscript to a prospective editor (s) ( 8 ). There are essentially two types of letters; the first is the one that is initially submitted with the manuscript (cover letter), and the second is when a revision is being submitted (revised letter). The first letter introduces the work at the initial manuscript submission ( 9 ), while the second one is needed following an invitation to revise and resubmit the manuscript. Here, the authors respond to the suggestions/criticisms of the reviewers ( 10 ). In this paper, “cover letter” and “second letter” refer to the first/submit letter and the revised letter, respectively.

A well-written cover letter is an effective tool for authors to sell their work to the journal editor and make a “good first impression”. A cover letter is a summary that highlights the main points, emphasizes the novelty, and communicates the potential implications of the submitted work ( 3 ). A cover letter allows the authors to persuade the editors regarding the novelty/originality and significance of the research in a less formal manner than in the manuscript itself ( 6 ). A well-written and informative cover letter helps the journal’s editor to be informed about the work and its significance. Regardless of the novelty and significance of the submitted manuscript, editors may miss those points without providing insights in a cover letter ( 5 ).

3. The Content of a Cover Letter

3.1. first cover letter (submit letter).

One point of view is that the cover letter’s content should be covered in the manuscript’s abstract ( 3 ). A typical cover letter includes the name of editor (s) and the journal, date of submission, the characteristics of the manuscript (i.e., title, type of the manuscript, e.g., review, original, case report), the importance of the work and its relevance to the readership of the journal, verification of the originality of the work, the authors’ confirmation that the manuscript is currently submitted only to this journal, declarations and ethical statements, suggested potential reviewers, and contact information of the corresponding author of the submitted work ( 5 , 6 ). Other manuscript characteristics, including the length and number of tables and figures, can also be indicated. If the manuscript belongs to a special issue or is being submitted upon an official invitation from the journal’s editorial office, it should also be addressed. The main contents of the first cover letter are described in Table 1 .

The most critical element of a cover letter is a “statement of novelty/significance/implication.” The authors are advised to carefully write a brief and concise description of their work’s impact toward communicating its significance ( 6 ). The authors are strongly advised not to copy the abstract into the cover letter and instead explain in their own words the significance of the work and the reason for submitting it to the journal ( 11 ). If this information is lacking, the editors may rely on the reviewers who may not appreciate the significance of the work and just focus on the technical issues rather than the scientific value of the work ( 5 ). Providing a clear and robust statement of novelty and significance would be more critical for editors and potential reviewers with diverse and interdisciplinary backgrounds ( 6 ).

The statements are expected to answer the following questions: (1) why is the work important? (e.g., emphasizing a new measurement, a new diagnostic method or criterion, a newly discovered biological process); and (2) how does the work advance current knowledge in the field? The best approach to answer this question is by describing the current state of knowledge in the field and clarifying how the work provides an added value by answering a previously unanswered question, finding the solution to a problem, or improving existing methods ( 5 ). Checking the recently published papers on similar topics in the journal provides new insights for the authors to clarify in the cover letter as to how the manuscript follows the publication trends of the journal and will add something new that would be relevant to the trend ( 12 ).

The cover letter is also expected to emphasize why the manuscript will attract the journal’s readers ( 5 ). The authors also need to consider the journal’s Aims and Scope to underscore how the manuscript would fit within the journal’s scope and attract potential readers ( 13 ). Instead of stating simply that the manuscript is “of interest to the field” or “novel,” the authors should address specific aspects of the journal’s Aims and Scope statement, e.g., “We believe that this manuscript is appropriate for publication by [journal name] since it… [reference to the journal’s aims and scope] ( 11 ).

For a review, opinion, or a trends paper, emphasizing the timeline and novelty is needed, as stated by Sacristán, the editor of trends in molecular medicine: “The synthesis and conceptual advance should be particularly stated in terms of what is new and has been trending in the field for the last one to five years”. She also recommends that the authors need to provide a future perspective beyond the main take-home message of the manuscript for a trends paper and take a strong and novel stance on a hypothesis or idea for a cover letter of an opinion manuscript ( 14 ).

The cover letter must contain some predefined statements, including the “author agreement” statement ( 13 ). An “author agreement” is a statement to confirm that “all authors have read and approved the final version of the manuscript being submitted” ( 8 ). Furthermore, “the authors warrant that the manuscript is their original work, has not received prior publication and is not under consideration for publication elsewhere” ( 8 ). Some journals may request the corresponding author to confirm that he/she will take responsibility for informing co-authors of editorial decisions, reviews received, and any changes or revisions made; additionally, the editor (s) should be informed about any closely related manuscript (s) simultaneously submitted for consideration to the same or another journal ( 15 ). The authors also should declare if any part of the submitted work has been previously published elsewhere, even as an abstract ( 16 ); e.g., “there is some overlap in the content of the introduction section, which we have noted in the text”.

Depending on the journal’s policy, other statements, including “conflict of interest statement”, “funding source declarations”, and “permission note”, may also be required to be included in the cover letter ( 8 , 11 ). As indicated by Elsevier, a conflict of interest statement, known as a disclosure statement, is a declaration from the author that “there is no financial/personal interest or belief that could affect their objectivity”. The publisher emphasizes that the authors should declare and state the potential conflict’s source and nature in cases where a conflict of interest exists. A funding source declaration is defined by the publisher as “a declaration of any funding or research grants (and their sources) received in the course of study, research or assembly of the manuscript”. Elsevier also defines the permission note as a statement that declares that “permission has been received to use any material in the manuscript such as a figure, which is not original content” ( 8 , 17 ). Other statements like “Statement of English native editing” may also be added.

Furthermore, informing the editor (s) regarding any information that will support the submission (e.g., original or confirmatory data, supplementary materials, relevance, topicality) can be helpful ( 8 ). Other operational information, typically provided within checkboxes of the journal’s submission system, is not required to be included in the cover letter ( 5 ).

3.2. Second Cover Letter

The second cover letter, which accompanies the revised version of the manuscript, must be a model of clarity and must address every issue posed by the editor and reviewers ( 10 ). If the revised manuscript is sent for the second round of peer-review, the reviewer (s) will see the letter. The content of the header and footer sections of the revised letter is similar to that of the submitted cover letter. The letter should be directed to the editor as addressed in the first letter unless the authors are informed that a new editor will process the revised version ( 10 ). The first paragraph should start with an “expression of polite gratitude”, e.g., “we would like to thank you for the opportunity to revise and resubmit our manuscript.” The “manuscript ID” or “identification number,” usually assigned by the journal in the first submission, should be addressed in the first paragraph ( 10 ).

The second paragraph usually “signals attention to the reviewers’ comments” by providing an explicit reference to the comments made by the reviewers and the editor. Furthermore, it may contain a positive statement regarding the results, methodology, conclusions, etc., in which case the authors need to acknowledge reviews’ insights ( 10 , 18 ). For example, “We sincerely appreciate all the valuable comments and suggestions made, which helped us improve the revised version of our manuscript” or “we found the reviewers’ comments helpful in guiding us to revise the manuscript.” Such statements will help the authors in creating a polite, formal tone throughout the letter. The paragraph should be followed by providing the editor with a roadmap or a summary of the revisions, addressing “the response to comments attachment.” A point-by-point response to the specific comments of the reviewers must be provided. If the authors disagree with a point raised by a reviewer, a rebuttal or counterstatement may be in order. A scientific and polite approach should spell out why the authors disagree, never losing sight of the reviewer’s opinion ( 19 ).

The footer section (closing salutation) of the letter returns to polite formalities, using statements like “we hope that the revised version of our manuscript is now acceptable to the reviewers, and suitable for publication in the [name of journal], we look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience” ( 10 ).

4. Organization

Although it is not a rule, the cover letter’s content can be organized within a cover letter header (opening salutation), three main paragraphs (the body of cover letter), and a cover letter footer (closing salutation), as described in Table 1 .

The cover letter should be initiated by addressing the editor (s) and the target journal; however, the author’s affiliation and contact information may also be included at the top of page ( 4 ). The name of the editor (s) can be easily found on the journal’s information page. If it is known, the authors must address the editor who will receive the manuscript and handle the peer-review process ( 13 ). If there are several co-editors, the person the author feels has the most appropriate background, and specialty of the topic should be addressed. In cases where such information is lacking, authors can mention all editors by name or address the letter to “dear editors” ( 12 ); however, it has been recommended to avoid writing “dear editor” ( 16 ). Also, the submission date and the journal’s name where the manuscript will be submitted are required ( 13 ).

In the first paragraph of the cover letter body, to introduce the submitted work, the title and the type of manuscript, authors’ name, journal name, and manuscript length are presented ( 4 ). In addition, it is mentioned that whether the manuscript is submitted upon an invitation or belongs to a special issue. The importance of the study, including novelty, potential implications, and its take-home message, are addressed in the second paragraph of the cover letter body. In addition, it is explained why the work would be attractive for journal readers. The third paragraph of the cover letter body includes some statements including authorship agreement, conflicts of interest, funding source, and ethical considerations. If required, potential reviewers are also suggested here.

Within the closing salutation, the authors can appreciate the editor for taking the time to read the cover letter and considering the submitted work for potential publication.

5. Some Practical Tips: The Length, and Dos and Don’ts

The authors need to spend plenty of time crafting their cover letters. They are advised to avoid too many details and keep it within one page (less than 200 words), like an introduction or a brief overview ( 4 , 11 ). The authors should check the guide for authors and cover letter suggestions provided by the journal, including all the requirements, e.g., specific disclosures, statements, and potential reviewers. Some publishers (e.g., Springer, https://www.springer.com/gp/authors-editors/journal-author/cover-letters/1398, Taylor & Francis, https://authorservices.taylorandfrancis.com/publishing-your-research/making-your submission/writing-a-journal-article-cover-letter/) provide sample cover letters that the authors can use. Figure 1 provides a sample for a cover letter.

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If the authors address previously published papers in the cover letter, then appropriate citation should be considered. The authors should carefully check the letter for any spelling and grammatical errors ( 11 , 20 ). They should make sure that they correctly spell the name of the journal’s editor (s) ( 4 ). Being careless regarding the editor’s name or the change of a journal’s name in a cover letter of a resubmitted manuscript, can be embarrassing and make a bad impression ( 4 ). It is suggested that the cover letter be written on the authors’ institutional letterhead to display professionalism and reliability ( 20 , 21 ).

5.2. Don’ts

When authors suggest a number of potential reviewers, they should avoid suggesting their friends and colleagues, as this would be viewed as a conflict of interest. Collaborators whom the authors have published with in the past five years should not be suggested either; an editor may easily be informed of such associations by a quick search of PubMed or other databases ( 22 ). The authors should avoid using complex sentence structures, jargon, and acronyms and keep the text straightforward and easy to read ( 11 , 20 ). The authors should also avoid including unrelated personal information or glorifying their past research papers or any of their academic accolades ( 20 ). They must not be rude towards the editors or complement the editor’s accomplishments ( 4 ). The novelty statement should not exaggerate or overstate the findings of the work; furthermore, any conclusion stated should be completely supported by the data provided in the manuscript ( 23 ). Finally, authors are recommended not to write a generic cover letter that could be used for any manuscript and could be sent to any journal ( 21 ).

6. Conclusion

In summary, a cover letter should highlight the novelty, importance, take-home message, and goodness-of-fit of the manuscript to the journal. These are critical information that can persuade an editor that the submitted work merits publication consideration in the journal. The cover letter should not be general but should be custom-written for the target journal. Although the submitted manuscript may usually pass through the peer-review process and get published regardless of the cover letter, a well-written, informative, and concise cover letter increases the chance of gaining acceptance.

Authors' Contribution: Study concept and design, Zahra Bahadoran and Asghar Ghasemi; Drafting of the manuscript, Zahra Bahadoran, Parvin Mirmiran, and Asghar Ghasemi; Critical revision of the manuscript for important intellectual content, Khosrow Kashfi and Parvin Mirmiran.

Conflict of Interests: The authors have no conflict of interest.

Funding/Support: This study was supported by the Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (grant number 28127).

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Critical Writing Seminar: Craft of Prose : Cover Letter Resources

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Cover Letter resources

  • Cover Letter Writing Guide - Penn Career Services  - A writing guide on cover letters prepared by Penn Career Services that covers the purpose of cover letters, cover letter etiquette,  
  • Job Search Letters - Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL)  - These OWL resources will help you write job application letters, thank you and follow up letters, as well as effective acceptance and rejection letters. Also included are links to other OWL resources geared for entry-level and skilled labor positions.
  • Microsoft Office Templates - Access a wide selection of MS Word templates with formatting for various styles of resumes and cover letters. 

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  • Skill Sumo Future Proof: How to Craft a Cover letter This video, from Academic Video, will teach you how to craft a cover letter.
  • What to Include in the Resume and Cover Letter. From Sage Video, this online tutorial provides tips for developing your resume and for writing cover letters.
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How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job

I ’ve read thousands, maybe tens of thousands, of cover letters in my career. If you’re thinking that sounds like really boring reading, you’re right. What I can tell you from enduring that experience is that most cover letters are terrible — and not only that, but squandered opportunities. When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test.

So let’s talk about how to do cover letters right.

First, understand the point of a cover letter.

The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just your résumé. Managers generally aren’t hiring based solely on your work history; your experience is crucial, yes, but they’re also looking for someone who will be easy to work with, shows good judgment, communicates well, possesses strong critical thinking skills and a drive to get things done, complements their current team, and all the other things you yourself probably want from your co-workers. It’s tough to learn much about those things from job history alone, and that’s where your cover letter comes in.

Because of that …

Whatever you do, don’t just summarize your résumé.

The No. 1 mistake people make with cover letters is that they simply use them to summarize their résumé. This makes no sense — hiring managers don’t need a summary of your résumé! It’s on the very next page! They’re about to see it as soon as they scroll down. And if you think about it, your entire application is only a few pages (in most cases, a one- or two-page résumé and a one-page cover letter) — why would you squander one of those pages by repeating the content of the others? And yet, probably 95 percent of the cover letters I see don’t add anything new beyond the résumé itself (and that’s a conservative estimate).

Instead, your cover letter should go beyond your work history to talk about things that make you especially well-suited for the job. For example, if you’re applying for an assistant job that requires being highly organized and you neurotically track your household finances in a detailed, color-coded spreadsheet, most hiring managers would love to know that because it says something about the kind of attention to detail you’d bring to the job. That’s not something you could put on your résumé, but it can go in your cover letter.

Or maybe your last boss told you that you were the most accurate data processor she’d ever seen, or came to rely on you as her go-to person whenever a lightning-fast rewrite was needed. Maybe your co-workers called you “the client whisperer” because of your skill in calming upset clients. Maybe you’re regularly sought out by more senior staff to help problem-solve, or you find immense satisfaction in bringing order to chaos. Those sorts of details illustrate what you bring to the job in a different way than your résumé does, and they belong in your cover letter.

If you’re still stumped, pretend you’re writing an email to a friend about why you’d be great at the job. You probably wouldn’t do that by stiffly reciting your work history, right? You’d talk about what you’re good at and how you’d approach the work. That’s what you want here.

You don’t need a creative opening line.

If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you don’t. Just be simple and straightforward:

• “I’m writing to apply for your X position.”

• “I’d love to be considered for your X position.”

• “I’m interested in your X position because …”

• “I’m excited to apply for your X position.”

That’s it! Straightforward is fine — better, even, if the alternative is sounding like an aggressive salesperson.

Show, don’t tell.

A lot of cover letters assert that the person who wrote it would excel at the job or announce that the applicant is a skillful engineer or a great communicator or all sorts of other subjective superlatives. That’s wasted space — the hiring manager has no reason to believe it, and so many candidates claim those things about themselves that most managers ignore that sort of self-assessment entirely. So instead of simply declaring that you’re great at X (whatever X is), your letter should demonstrate that. And the way you do that is by describing accomplishments and experiences that illustrate it.

Here’s a concrete example taken from one extraordinarily effective cover-letter makeover that I saw. The candidate had originally written, “I offer exceptional attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and a talent for managing complex projects with a demonstrated ability to prioritize and multitask.” That’s pretty boring and not especially convincing, right? (This is also exactly how most people’s cover letters read.)

In her revised version, she wrote this instead:

“In addition to being flexible and responsive, I’m also a fanatic for details — particularly when it comes to presentation. One of my recent projects involved coordinating a 200-page grant proposal: I proofed and edited the narratives provided by the division head, formatted spreadsheets, and generally made sure that every line was letter-perfect and that the entire finished product conformed to the specific guidelines of the RFP. (The result? A five-year, $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying this same level of attention to detail to tasks as visible as prepping the materials for a top-level meeting and as mundane as making sure the copier never runs out of paper.”

That second version is so much more compelling and interesting — and makes me believe that she really is great with details.

If there’s anything unusual or confusing about your candidacy, address it in the letter.

Your cover letter is your chance to provide context for things that otherwise might seem confusing or less than ideal to a hiring manager. For example, if you’re overqualified for the position but are excited about it anyway, or if you’re a bit underqualified but have reason to think you could excel at the job, address that up front. Or if your background is in a different field but you’re actively working to move into this one, say so, talk about why, and explain how your experience will translate. Or if you’re applying for a job across the country from where you live because you’re hoping to relocate to be closer to your family, let them know that.

If you don’t provide that kind of context, it’s too easy for a hiring manager to decide you’re the wrong fit or applying to everything you see or don’t understand the job description and put you in the “no” pile. A cover letter gives you a chance to say, “No, wait — here’s why this could be a good match.”

Keep the tone warm and conversational.

While there are some industries that prize formal-sounding cover letters — like law — in most fields, yours will stand out if it’s warm and conversational. Aim for the tone you’d use if you were writing to a co-worker whom you liked a lot but didn’t know especially well. It’s okay to show some personality or even use humor; as long as you don’t go overboard, your letter will be stronger for it.

Don’t use a form letter.

You don’t need to write every cover letter completely from scratch, but if you’re not customizing it to each job, you’re doing it wrong. Form letters tend to read like form letters, and they waste the chance to speak to the specifics of what this employer is looking for and what it will take to thrive in this particular job.

If you’re applying for a lot of similar jobs, of course you’ll end up reusing language from one letter to the next. But you shouldn’t have a single cover letter that you wrote once and then use every time you apply; whatever you send should sound like you wrote it with the nuances of this one job in mind.

A good litmus test is this: Could you imagine other applicants for this job sending in the same letter? If so, that’s a sign that you haven’t made it individualized enough to you and are probably leaning too heavily on reciting your work history.

No, you don’t need to hunt down the hiring manager’s name.

If you read much job-search advice, at some point you’ll come across the idea that you need to do Woodward and Bernstein–level research to hunt down the hiring manager’s name in order to open your letter with “Dear Matilda Jones.” You don’t need to do this; no reasonable hiring manager will care. If the name is easily available, by all means, feel free to use it, but otherwise “Dear Hiring Manager” is absolutely fine. Take the hour you just freed up and do something more enjoyable with it.

Keep it under one page.

If your cover letters are longer than a page, you’re writing too much, and you risk annoying hiring managers who are likely sifting through hundreds of applications and don’t have time to read lengthy tomes. On the other hand, if you only write one paragraph, it’s unlikely that you’re making a compelling case for yourself as a candidate — not impossible, but unlikely. For most people, something close to a page is about right.

Don’t agonize over the small details.

What matters most about your cover letter is its content. You should of course ensure that it’s well-written and thoroughly proofread, but many job seekers agonize over elements of the letter that really don’t matter. I get tons of  questions from job seekers  about whether they should attach their cover letter or put it in the body of the email (answer: No one cares, but attaching it makes it easier to share and will preserve your formatting), or what to name the file (again, no one really cares as long as it’s reasonably professional, but when people are dealing with hundreds of files named “resume,” it’s courteous to name it with your full name).

Approaching your cover letter like this can make a huge difference in your job search. It can be the thing that moves your application from the “maybe” pile (or even the “no” pile) to the “yes” pile. Of course, writing cover letters like this will take more time than sending out the same templated letter summarizing your résumé — but 10 personalized, compelling cover letters are likely to get you more  interview invitations  than 50 generic ones will.

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by The Cut; Photos: Getty Images

IMAGES

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  1. Physician Cover Letters: Why Writing a Good One Is As ...

    The cover letter should be brief, well written, professional and positive in tone, and absolutely error-free. It should also give the recipient the sense that the physician has researched the opportunity or organization before writing the letter. By Bonnie Darves

  2. Writing Compelling Physician Cover Letters

    Highlight special expertise. Subspecialists and some specialists familiar with new procedures should briefly explain their expertise and/or the number of procedures they've performed. Briefly address any time gaps in training or practice that are evident in your CV to prevent potentially negative reader assumptions.

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    How to write a medical cover letter Here are the steps you can follow to write a medical cover letter for health care positions: 1. Provide your contact information

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    1. Include Your Personal Information Your cover letter should contain all of your personal data, including: Your name The abbreviation of your medical degree Current title Mailing address Phone number Email address Make sure this information matches the information listed at the top of your resume exactly. 2.

  5. Physician Cover Letter Example and Template for 2024

    Learning about how to write an effective cover letter for a physician position may help you get the job. In this article, we explain what to include in a physician cover letter, offer tips for writing an effective cover letter and provide a sample to help you write your own.

  6. How To Write a Cover Letter for a Healthcare Role

    1. Review the listing Read the listing you are applying for carefully, making note of any industry-specific keywords. Many employers use software to screen applications before a hiring manager reviews them, so including these keywords might increase the chances of your materials appearing before a person. 2. Brainstorm details

  7. Medical Cover Letter Examples & Expert Tips · Resume.io

    Best format for a medical cover letter Before a doctor meets a patient, they check their chart to understand better how to proceed. The format for your cover letter charts its course the same way. Here is the skeleton you will use to create your medical cover letter: The cover letter header The greeting / salutation The cover letter intro

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    This guide will show you: 10+ medical cover letter examples better than 9 out of 10 others. How to write a cover letter for medical jobs that lands 10x more interviews. How to create your medical cover letter quickly so you can move on with your life. Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder.

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    Physician Cover Letter Example 3. I am writing in response to your advertisement for a Staff Physician that appeared in the Herald Daily Newspaper. The details of your requirements as listed in the ad have given me enough reasons to believe that I am a suitable candidate for this position. I am a Diplomate in Internal Medicine and have over ...

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    This guide will show you: A sample cover letter for physicians better than 9 out of 10 others. Ten effective physician cover letter examples that let you add your skills. The right plan-of-care for how to write a cover letter for physician positions. Why a few well-placed medical achievements can end your job search.

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    Medical doctor's resources 1. How to properly format your medical doctor cover letter Correct formatting ensures that your cover letter is easy to read and professional. Use these guidelines to create a well-structured cover letter: Font: Choose a standard, readable font such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.

  13. Medical Cover Letter: The 2023 Guide with 10+ Examples & Samples

    For that, you need to use a professional cover letter template and check the following details in your cover letter before submitting it: Your contact details and LinkedIn profile. The hiring manager's contact details. Company name & address. Personal greeting. For example, 'Dear Mr. Dumbledoor'. Introduction paragraph.

  14. Physician Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips for 2024

    Home Cover Letter Examples Physician Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips for 2024 02/01/2024 Physician Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips for 2024 You prevent, diagnose, and treat the nastiest of the nasty diseases. Let's diagnose your physician cover letter and see if there isn't a virus hiding within. Dave Rygielski Career Expert

  15. Physician Cover Letter

    Your cover letter should explain why you are a perfect fit for the job. It is also important that you are direct in your letter. Do not use generic language and be sure to tailor your cover letter to each opportunity you apply for. Try to include the organization's name, the recruiter's name, and location somewhere in your letter naturally.

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    A well-crafted cover letter is essential to make your mark in the competitive medical field. If the thought of writing a cover letter seems as challenging as diagnosing complex cases, don't worry — we're here to simplify it for you. Our guide is straightforward and perfectly calibrated to make this process smooth and effective.

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    Physician Cover Letter Example #1. Paula Alvarez. 123 X Street, Fresno CA, 93711. 123-456-7890. [email protected]. Dear Dr. Johnson, I am writing in response to the Family Staff Physician position posted in the X City Daily Newspaper, Job ID 1234, located in Orange Cove, California.

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    Here are a few to keep in mind: Have a summary at the beginning of your cover letter that effectively showcases your abilities and talents. Try to keep it within four to six lines and to mention some specific skills and personality traits, as well as to provide an overview of your experience. List the full job title, name of the employer ...

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    Dear [Mr/Ms/Mx] [Contact Person's Name], My name is [Your Name], and I am a GMC licensed paediatrician with an MB ChB from the University of Warwick. My former colleague Dr Emily Merryrose is a consultant in your unit and recommended that I apply.

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    Medical Advice A thorough, professional cover letter can help you find a job in the fast-growing medical field. The cover letter examples below are perfect for nurses, lab technicians, medical assistants, and many others. Click on any of our samples to get a great start on your medical career. Create my Cover Letter Cover Letter Tips for Medical

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    The recipient's name The first part of your cover letter is where you address the recipient. In most cases, it's preferable to avoid a generic 'Dear Sir/Madam'. Instead, address the person either by their position or by name. You could address it as 'Dear hiring manager', 'Dear recruiter' or similar.

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    3.1. First Cover Letter (Submit Letter) One point of view is that the cover letter's content should be covered in the manuscript's abstract ().A typical cover letter includes the name of editor (s) and the journal, date of submission, the characteristics of the manuscript (i.e., title, type of the manuscript, e.g., review, original, case report), the importance of the work and its ...

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    Here are our tips for writing an excellent medical scribe cover letter. 1. Proofread and pay attention to detail in your cover letter. Cover letters for medical scribes require strong computer literacy and record keeping. Prove to hiring managers you're an ideal medical scribe by presenting them with a well-written and error-free cover letter.

  24. Cover Letter Resources

    Cover Letter Writing Guide - Penn Career Services - A writing guide on cover letters prepared by Penn Career Services that covers the purpose of cover letters, cover letter etiquette, ; Job Search Letters - Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) - These OWL resources will help you write job application letters, thank you and follow up letters, as well as effective acceptance and rejection letters.

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    Now, since you know the difference and have probably chosen this one and only university, let's move on to how to write an intent letter for a medical school. Want to learn the difference between a letter of interest and a cover letter? Visit our guide: Letter of Interest vs Cover Letter. How to Write a Letter of Intent for Medical Schools 1.

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    3. Highlight your other work strengths . Add a short list of bullet points to cover your success in other key areas of nursing. With each bullet point, show the skill in action by giving an example of how you improved clinical operations or patient outcomes.

  27. How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job

    So let's talk about how to do cover letters right., First, understand the point of a cover letter., The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just ...