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How and Why to Write a Great Cover Letter

Student working in career planning guide

A cover letter is a one-page business letter that you submit when applying to a job, along with your resume. As a piece of persuasive writing, your cover letter will aim to convey to the employer why you’re a great candidate for the role.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

Your cover letter complements your resume by making it easy for the employer to see how your experience and interest connect to the position. Your goal is to convince the employer to interview you.

With your cover letter, you’ll aim to:

  • Highlight your qualifications:  You’ll show how your skills and experience relate to the employer’s needs for a specific position.
  • Showcase your motivation: You’ll demonstrate your enthusiasm for the specific position and the organization.
  • Reflect your voice and written communication skills: You’ll give the employer a sense of your personality and writing style.

When should I write a cover letter?

Not all jobs require cover letters. So, how do you decide whether to submit one?

Submit a Cover Letter when…

  • The posting explicitly requests that you do so
  • You’re applying to an opportunity at a mission-driven organization
  • You think that doing so could provide important information to the employer that they wouldn’t get from your resume

Consider Submitting a Cover Letter when…

  • It’s marked “optional” in an application, and you have the bandwidth to do so
  • You have content that you can easily recycle or repurpose into a tailored cover letter

No Need to Submit a Cover Letter when…

  • A posting specifically tells you not to submit one
  • There’s no way to submit one in an application portal, and doing so would require a serious workaround

If you’re applying to several similar opportunities, creating a draft cover letter in advance, geared toward that type of opportunity, can be a helpful way to save time in your actual application process.

How do I write a cover letter?

Your cover letter should articulate your qualifications and motivation for the position. Read the job description closely and research the organization. As you craft your cover letter, use examples that demonstrate your relevant skills, knowledge, and interests. The cover letter should be concise, clear, and well-organized.

Before Writing

Research the employer.

Learn enough about the organization to articulate why you are a strong fit for that firm. 

  • Review the firm’s website and LinkedIn page.
  • Speak with current or previous employees.
  • Read articles and social media for current news.

Analyze the job description

Look for skills, duties, and qualifications of the job so you can design your letter to match these as much as possible.

Reflect on your experience and motivation

Identify skills and personal qualities you have developed which will be useful in this role. Ask yourself:

  • What attracts you about this role/company/industry?
  • What have you have done in your work experiences, classes, internships, activities, projects, volunteer work, travel, etc., that is similar to the duties required of the job? 

Cover Letter Structure

As a business letter, the cover letter should include:

  • Heading: Include your name and contact information in the same format as your resume
  • Salutation: Address your letter to the specific individual who can hire you, if this is known. If the name is not included in the job description, address the letter to the Hiring Manager or title mentioned in the job description.
  • Body Paragraphs:  Discuss your experiences, interests, and skills to show the employer how you can add value to their team. See the section below for more guidance.
  • Signature Line: Include a closing and your name.

The cover letter should be one page, about three or four paragraphs, and single spaced. Use 10-12 point font and one inch margins. 

When applying online, upload your cover letter as a PDF file, unless another format is specified. When sending your resume and cover letter by email, you may write a short note or paste your cover letter in the body of your email (without the address header) and also attach the PDF file.

Cover Letter Content

Your cover letter should answer who, what, when, where and why you are applying for the opportunity. 

Introduction

State the position for which you are applying. If you have a referral or spoke with someone from the company, you can mention it in the introduction. Provide some basic information about yourself; this can include your class year and what you’re studying at Columbia. Briefly outline why you’re interested in the organization and what you bring in terms of relevant experience and skills. 

Body Paragraphs

These paragraphs will highlight your qualifications and strengths that are most relevant to the organization and position. Use the job posting and your research as clues to determine what the employer is seeking in a candidate. Have your resume beside you and reflect on what you want the employer to know about you. Are there experiences you want to expand upon that demonstrate your understanding of the role and ability to do the job requirements?

Structure the paragraphs based on relevance, not chronology. Lead with your most relevant skill or strongest experience.

Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence.  This can highlight a key skill set, a transferable experience, or a core area of knowledge you’ve built through your studies. Walk the reader through a project or experience, integrating the relevant skills you used and qualities you demonstrated. Provide details about your accomplishments and impact. Connect how these experiences have prepared you for this role and why you are motivated to do this job. There is no need to apologize if you feel you lack experience; focus on the accomplishments that you have.

Recap what you would bring to the organization and your interest in the position. Thank the employer for their consideration. Keep your tone positive and enthusiastic. 

Check out our example of how to structure your cover letter content . 

Editing Tips

Use our  Cover Letter Checklist to make sure your format and content is in line with best practices. 

  • Ensure that the content reflects the requirements in the job description
  • Keep the cover letter concise, at one page or less
  • Correct any errors in grammar, sentence structure, and spelling
  • Use the active voice
  • Avoid beginning too many sentences with “I”

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What Is a Cover Letter?

Understanding cover letters, types of cover letters, how to write a cover letter, tips for writing a cover letter.

  • Cover Letter FAQs

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What Is a Cover Letter? Types and How To Write One

what are cover letters used for

A cover letter is a written document commonly submitted with a job application outlining the applicant's credentials and interest in the open position. Since a cover letter is often one of only two documents sent to a potential employer, a well- or poorly-written letter can impact whether the applicant is called for an interview .

Key Takeaways

  • A cover letter is commonly submitted with a job application explaining the applicant's credentials and interest in the position.
  • A good cover letter complements the resume and explains why the candidate is the ideal person for the job.
  • Common cover letter mistakes can sink a job applicant.

Investopedia / Joules Garcia

Most job postings are done online and no longer require a physical application. Instead, applicants send companies a copy of their resume along with a cover letter either by email or with a hard copy through the mail. A resume offers a glimpse into the professional and academic experience of a potential employee. The cover letter, on the other hand, acts as an introduction written by the candidate to express their interest in the position and what makes them the best fit for the job.

A good cover letter complements a resume by expanding on items relevant to the job. In essence, it's a sales pitch that describes why the applicant is the best person for the position. Career experts advise job seekers to spend time customizing each cover letter for the particular position, rather than using a generic missive. Although this requires extra effort, it can be very helpful in allowing an applicant to stand out above the competition.

The cover letter provides information to the employer about who the candidate is as a professional and as a person. This includes their areas of interest, professional goals, knowledge, skills they've gained over the years, achievements, passions, and aspirations. The cover letter should be a one-page document that provides a clear and concise idea about why the candidate is the best person for the job . It should also highlight the cultural fit.

While there is no set template for a cover letter, the type of letter that you write will depend on the requirements of each individual company or employer. The information that is included in a cover letter will vary depending on the goals and purpose of your application.

  • An application cover letter is the most familiar type of cover letter. This is generally written in response to a vacancy that is posted on a company's website or a job board. In addition to answering any specific questions posted in the job ad, it may also highlight any experience or skills that are suitable for the position.
  • A referral cover letter is similar to an application letter, but it includes the name of a colleague or employee who recommended the applicant for the open position. A strong referral can help you stand out against other applicants.
  • A prospecting cover letter , also known as a letter of interest, is written by a job seeker and addressed to a company where they would like to work. However, it is not aimed at a specific role or vacancy. Instead, this type of letter inquires about open positions in general and may highlight any special skills that make the writer suitable for the company.

When employers post a job ad that requires a cover letter, they may specify certain requirements for the cover letter to address. For example, they may require applicants to answer certain questions, or to respect a certain word limit. It is important to follow these requirements, as they reflect on the applicant's ability to understand and follow directions.

If the employer does not set any expectations, a typical cover letter should be about a page or less, and may include a formal greeting, contact information, and links to the applicant's portfolio or work. It should highlight any special skills, and explain why you would be a good fit for the position. This is your chance to impress the employer: Even if your resume does not have everything an employer wants, a well-written cover letter can make the applicant stand out from the crowd.

However, it is possible to include too much information. Most employers will simply glance at the majority of their cover letters, and a long-winded essay might end up at the bottom of the pile. A few short paragraphs explaining your skills, and why you chose that specific employer, should be enough to put your best foot forward.

Writing a cover letter doesn't have to be tedious—even though it may seem like it's a chore. Here are a few simple tips you may want to consider when composing your cover letter:

  • Personalize your letter for each role. Never use a generic cover letter. This means you have to write a new one for each position. Be sure to include your strengths and skills, and explain why you’re the perfect candidate.
  • Include contact information. If the posting doesn't include the hiring manager's name, call the company , or check its website. Including this person's name gives your letter a proper greeting and also shows you have initiative. And don't forget to add your contact information, too. This is important if your resume gets separated from your cover letter.
  • Simplify your letter. Communicate clearly and concisely. Using complex words and sentences would most certainly fail to convey your intentions with the company and the person reading the letter probably won't bother with the rest of your application.
  • Be specific when needed. Don't rehash your resume, so be sure to quantify your accomplishments. For instance, expand on your marketing experience in your cover letter by saying you brought in 200 additional clients each month and increased revenue to $10,000. This can set you apart from candidates with vague personal details.
  • Proofread. After you’ve written the letter, go over it a few times to ensure there are no errors. Then ask someone else to do a once-over and recommend any changes you may need to make.

A simple, focused cover letter without any typos or grammatical errors will get you noticed by potential employers.

A perfect resume can often be sabotaged by a poorly thought-out cover letter or one that is laden with mistakes. Whether you include the letter as per required submission guidelines, or you simply want to emphasize your interest in the job, make sure you avoid making these blunders.

  • Names matter. This includes the name of the hiring manager, the company, and yes, even yours. Make sure you have the right names and the correct spelling. And don't forget to change the names if you're using the same cover letter for multiple jobs.
  • Restating your resume. Since the cover letter is used to identify your skills and explain how your previous experience is applicable to the desired position, don't restate the stuff on your resume. Remember, the cover letter should complement your resume, not just summarize it.
  • Keep your letter tight. Recruiters often go through hundreds of applications and don't have time to read through a three-page missive. The absolute maximum length for a cover letter should be one page, with a few concise paragraphs.
  • Omit unnecessary details. Stay on topic. There's no need to mention your graphic-design skills if you're applying for an accounting position. It's a good idea to leave out personal things like your IQ, recreational accomplishments, interests, and hobbies. That is unless they relate to the job or company.
  • Avoid sounding arrogant. Ensure your cover letter does not make you appear arrogant . While the cover letter is about you and your accomplishments, find a way of saying "I'm the best" without actually saying it. Avoid overusing words like "I," "me," or "my."
  • Remember that spelling counts. Typos and grammatical errors can show you didn't bother to proofread your own letter. And make sure to be consistent—don't convey a dash with "--" in one place and "—" in another.
  • Design matters : with the proliferation of publishing, design trends, and software, candidates have become creative in making their cover letter stand out from a design perspective. Make sure your cover letter projects your personality in terms of design while remaining professional. That is personal signature and branding.

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

According to Indeed , a leading job-seeking site, a typical cover letter should be about three or four paragraphs long and highlight any special experience or achievements that make the applicant exceptionally well-suited to the position.

How Do You Start a Cover Letter?

A cover letter should start with a formal greeting, preferably addressed to the hiring manager. If you do not know who will be reading your cover letter, a generic "to whom it may concern" is an acceptable, albeit old-fashioned, way to address a cover letter. It is also acceptable to address the letter to a title, such as "Dear Hiring Manager," or "Dear Talent Acquisition Team."

What Should a Cover Letter Contain?

An effective cover letter should highlight the applicant's skills, experience, and any achievements that make them a good fit for their prospective employer. It is also a good chance to mention anything that is not included in the resume: For example, if an applicant is drawn to a certain employer because they love a certain product, the cover letter is a great place to mention it. Make sure your cover letter also includes your name and contact information.

In a competitive jobs market, an effective cover letter is one way to make a job application stand out. This is a chance for an applicant to demonstrate why they think they would be a good fit. However, a poorly-written or meandering cover letter can hurt an application more than it helps.

Harvard Extension School. " Resources and Cover Letters: An Extension School Resource ," Pages 3 and 5.

Harvard Extension School. " Resources and Cover Letters: An Extension School Resource ," Page 5.

Jobscan. " Cover Letter Formats ."

Indeed. " What Is a Cover Letter? "

Indeed. " How to Address a Cover Letter (With Examples). "

what are cover letters used for

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3 Types of Cover Letters & When to Use Each

You’ve probably heard that a cover letter should be creative, reveal a bit of your personality and be concise so as not to bore a busy recipient. But did you know that there’s more than one type of cover letter ? And, depending on the purpose of the letter, t he content, the writing style and the facts you’ll decide to include will be different.

Types of Cover Letters

Today, our best resume writers will present the three most commonly used types of cover letters for you. We will explain the peculiarities of writing each type so that you could compose a letter that grabs the reader’s attention and serves your job-hunting goals. Our writers will also point out when and how to use all 3 types of application letter.

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The qualified resume makers from Resumeperk.com will create a strong resume and a cover letter based on your directions. The writer will highlight your professional strengths in the most favorable light, helping you to get noticed and increase your interview chances.

What are the different types of cover letters?

➤ Application letter – in most cases, when people say ‘cover letter’, they mean this type of letter. An application letter is what you send in response to a job posting along with a resume. It provides additional details for your resume and convinces the hiring person to call you for an interview.

➤ Prospecting letter – this type of letter is sent to the company of interest . However, this cover letter seeking employment does not address a specific job opening. Instead, in this letter you inquire about the existing openings and outline what you could possibly bring to the table if hired.

➤ Networking letter – the least formal of all cover letter types, this letter is written not to the company of interest. Networking letter is what you can write to alumni, former colleague or boss to wonder if the person could assist with your job search or recommend you for a position.

Now that you are aware of different kinds of application letters, the qualified writers from resume sites will guide you through the process of writing each one. 

Writing an application cover letter

When to use : As mentioned above, this type of letter is written with an intent to market yourself as an ideal candidate for a particular job. It is attached with a resume and expands on the facts of your career bio that don’t belong to a resume (for instance, you can explain the employment gap here).

Writing tips & tricks:

✓ Make it original . The internet abounds in job seeking cover letter templates. Yet, if you truly want to catch the attention of a busy hiring manager, take your time to make it unique and personal. The recruiters have an eye for cookie-cutter letters and the one you’ve copied from the internet won’t help you land an interview.

✓ Use the traditional structure . Start with an introduction that briefly outlines who you are and the purpose of the letter. Then, write a 1-2 paragraph body and a polite closing. Don’t write an overly long and detailed letter. For most positions, 250-350 words are sufficient to explain your potential value for the company.

✓ Tailor it for a job posting . A cover letter, just like your resume, should contain the keywords from the job listing. It will help your application to pass an electronic selection and boost the interview chances. For that, mention the required qualifications and skills from the job posting in your letter.

✓ Tell a story . A surefire way to stand out with your cover letter asking for job opportunity is to show your personal connection with the company or industry. For instance, you can show the connection to the company’s mission or tell why you want to move up the career ladder with them.

Not sure if teamwork vs individual work is best for you? Check out our guide to find out.

Writing a prospecting letter

When to use : Like many professionals, you probably have a few companies in mind that you’d like to work for. In this case, you can write a prospecting letter to show your interest in the company and wonder if there are any opportunities that you’re qualified to fill.

✓ Show what attracts you about the company . Since this is not a traditional seeking for a job cover letter, tell how you learned about the company or what inspires you to work for them. It might be a corporate culture, exciting projects, or even their green initiatives.

✓ Make it brief . You don’t know for sure if there are suitable openings for you, so no need to tell your professional bio in detail. Just mention your areas of specialization and top accomplishments which are relevant to what the company does. You might also want to attach a resume for further use and ask them to inform you about the future opportunities.

✓ Address it to the right person . Don’t just send your letter to whatever general contact email address. Send it to the hiring manager directly or to the manager of the department you’d like to work in. If you have a connection in the company, it’s a good idea to send it to them as well.

Struggle to stay productive all day? Check out the morning routines for better productivity: https://resumeperk.com/blog/7-morning-routines-for-better-productivity .

Writing a networking cover letter

When to use : Networking is the most effective way of looking for an employment. By sending out the networking letters to people you’ve met at work, trainings or professional events, you let them know that you’re job-hunting and ask for assistance or advice.

✓ Keep it professional, but not too formal . From all different kinds of cover letters, this one is the most casual. Since you are writing to someone you know in person, keep the tone friendlier, language more conversational, and sentences shorter. Use a more casual greeting as if you were writing a personal email.

✓ Outline what kind of help you expect . Simply pointing out that you want a new job will not suffice. Do you want to meet in person to ask for the industry insights, get referred to the company they work for, or you want a recommendation for a different employer? Be specific. Also, tell what kind of job do you have in mind to get more specific advice and help.

✓ Share your key accomplishments and skills. If you haven’t met with the person for years, they might not be aware of your current accomplishments and professional strengths. Outline them in a few sentences so that a person could give you an in-depth advice or recommend you for the position you qualify for.

Do you spend a lot of time getting to the office every day? Here’s how to use it productively: https://resumeperk.com/blog/make-the-most-of-your-commute-9-tips-from-a-resume-writer .

Do you always have to include a cover letter?

Unless the company asks you not to use a cover letter, it’s a good idea to always attach it. Cover letter is a chance to expand on your qualifications and establish a personal connection. Moreover, they are considered a good business etiquette. And the two latter types of application writing expand the number of opportunities for you as you reach out to many people and organizations. 

Need a professional cover letter?

Now that you are aware of different types of cover letters for jobs, it’s time to start writing. If you are too busy to compose multiple letters on your own or simply want the letter to be flawless, consider seeking professional help. Our experienced resume creators will compose a custom cover letter based on your instructions and in line with your career goals.

Our professional can write a brand new letter or edit the one you already have. The charges are highly affordable – take a look at our resume prices . This winter, take advantage of our extra 20% discount.

Our experienced writers can create a powerful resume suitable for each position. However, you may also request a specific resume depending on the job you are applying for, thus it will be tailored individually for your profession:

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How to Create a Compelling Cover Letter in Microsoft Word

E very time you apply for a job, it's a good idea to include a cover letter. Deciding how to write each one is hard, but at least you don’t have to start from scratch with their design.

Microsoft Word offers templates and welcomes third-party designs to help you create compelling cover letters. Here’s how to use such options in Word and make the best first impression possible to potential employers.

Use Microsoft Word’s Cover Letter Templates

Formal letters don’t have to be bland. Go to File > More templates on Word, and type “cover letter” in the search box. You’ll find several stylish designs that add structure and color to your document.

What reflects you better, a subtle or sharp color scheme? If you’re considering a bold header for your professional details, learn how to design letterheads on Word , too. You can even add your portrait to your cover letter.

Microsoft Word’s built-in templates also include fields for you to fill in with your information and that of your potential employer. They guide you in these small ways, some even providing a sample for your letter’s main body. It’s a good idea to rephrase that, though, to fit each job application.

If you don’t like any of the options on Word’s desktop app, explore more Microsoft cover letter templates online and download your favorites from there.

Use Third-Party Templates in Microsoft Word

You can create cover letters for your dream job on platforms besides Microsoft. If you’d rather stick with it, you’ll even come across third-party templates specifically designed for you to download and customize on Word. Here are some examples.

1. ResumeLab

Explore over 50 cover letter templates, ranging from minimalist to eye-catching designs. Keep in mind that a few of them are meant to be created on ResumeLab. The rest you can bring onto Word by clicking their Download it free here link.

You’ll be redirected to websites like Good Resume and Resume Genius , which help you quickly download your documents. Then, all you have to do is open them in Microsoft Word.

You’ll also notice that some cover letters on ResumeLab are edited versions of Word’s built-in templates, but this just adds to your selection and gives you more ideas.

2. Template.net

This is a popular site for templates of all kinds, including cover letters. For some designs, you pay a small fee, but Template.net has an impressive range of free options, too. What’s more, the download process is very easy.

Just browse its collection, click on a design you like, and select the Word button under Download Free Template . In the next window, hit Free Download . If you’re not signed in already, you’ll be asked to as the final step.

Follow Best Practices for Cover Letters

Familiarize yourself with the dos and don’ts of writing a cover letter . Remember these guidelines when selecting and customizing a template or crafting a cover letter from scratch. They boil down to the following rules.

1. Research Potential Employers

Do your research before writing or designing your cover letter. Get to know each company and even the recruiter you’re addressing. It’s the same strategy as tailoring your resume for different job types .

2. Tailor Your Cover Letter

When showcasing your skills and interest in a position, use your research to tailor your letter so that it grabs the recruiter’s attention and impresses them. Be smart, enthusiastic, and concise with your words.

3. Use Your Blank Space Wisely

Aim to limit your cover letter to one page. Any more than that, and you risk losing the recruiter’s interest. Think about what you need to say, including important and relevant details not covered in your resume. Express these things as succinctly as possible.

4. Your Visuals Should Complement and Not Overwhelm the Letter

Add a bit of color and texture, going for a subtle effect. You could even use some small icons, as long as they’re tasteful and discreet. Whatever you choose, keep these visuals on the letter’s edges, and don’t let them dominate the text.

5. Master Word’s Features That Benefit Cover Letters

For example, you can create your cover letter more efficiently by setting the text’s boundaries from the get-go. To do this, go to Layout > Margins . From the same toolbar, you can adjust paragraph spacing and indentation.

Through Insert > Pictures , you can import an image of your signature and place it at the end of the letter. Your header and footer can be customized from here, too.

Even the Mailing toolbar might be of interest. It can help streamline the process of writing and sending letters, as well as keeping track of recipients.

Good Planning and Wording Make the Best Cover Letters

Between Microsoft and other providers, you have access to a wide selection of templates for simple but attractive cover letters that you can personalize on Word. The app itself is full of useful writing and editing tools.

With this leg up, designing a cover letter for every occasion is easier. Sound research and planning in terms of how to approach each application can help polish the letter even more.

How to Create a Compelling Cover Letter in Microsoft Word

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  1. Cover Letter Format: Proper Examples & Guide

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  2. Free Cover Letter

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  3. 70+ Cover Letter Examples That Will Get You Hired in 2024

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  4. How to Format a Cover Letter (With Tips and Examples)

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  5. 32 Best Sample Cover Letter Examples for Job Applicants

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  6. How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job in 2021 (12+ Examples)

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  1. Video on Cover Letters

COMMENTS

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

    A cover letter, also known as an application letter, is a three- to four-paragraph memo to employers explaining your interest in the job and company and your fitness for the role. It's typically submitted along with your resume in a job application.

  2. What Is a Cover Letter? (And What To Include in One)

    1. Application cover letter This is the most common type of cover letter that candidates use to apply for a job. This traditional style includes details about your professional experience that are relevant to the requirements of the job post.

  3. What is a Cover Letter? Definition & Examples

    A cover letter is a one-page document included in your job application (along with your resume ). The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you to an employer, and give them additional information about your qualifications, character, and why you're interested in working for them.

  4. Glassdoor Guide: How to Write a Cover Letter

    The cover letter is a tool to help introduce yourself in a memorable, personal way during a job application. A well-crafted cover letter goes over information on your resume and expands this information for the reader, taking them on a guided journey of some of your greatest career and life achievements .

  5. The Best Cover Letter Examples for Any Job Seeker

    Diversity and Inclusion Advice / Job Search / Cover Letters 4 Cover Letter Examples That'll Make Writing Yours Way Easier by Alyse Kalish Updated 1/15/2024 10'000 Hours/Getty Images We love having examples. It's so much easier to decorate a cake, build a model, or yes, even write a cover letter when you know what the end product could look like.

  6. What Is a Cover Letter? Definition, Purpose, and Types

    A cover letter's purpose is to supplement an applicant's résumé by filling in any gaps and answering any questions an employer might have after reading their résumé. For example, your cover letter might explain why you spent a few years working outside your industry, or how your unique background would make you an asset to the company.

  7. What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?

    The main purpose of a cover letter is to fill in the gaps in your resume, and give hiring managers a deeper insight into your professional background. The best cover letters act as an effective marketing tool, and the product being marketed is you.

  8. How to Write a Standout Cover Letter in 2022

    Ah yes, the familiar cycle: You sit down to write a cover letter, open a blank document, check your email, browse cover letter examples, do some chores, watch that cursor blink a few more times, and finally Google something like "how to write a cover letter"—which hopefully brought you here.

  9. What Is a Cover Letter for a Job? Purpose & Example

    Purpose & Example. A cover letter is a document attached to your job application that shows why you're the best candidate. Not everyone expects cover letters, but a significant proportion of employers still do. If you don't include one, you're significantly reducing your chances of finding a job.

  10. What Is a Cover Letter & How to Make It Stand Out [10+ Tips]

    A cover letter is a type of letter you include in your job application. Its main role is to let the reader know what motivated you to apply, and what you can offer. A cover letter is not synonymous with a resume or CV. Typically, a cover letter's main body consists of three paragraphs, each for a different purpose.

  11. How and Why to Write a Great Cover Letter

    Career Resources How and Why to Write a Great Cover Letter A cover letter is a one-page business letter that you submit when applying to a job, along with your resume. As a piece of persuasive writing, your cover letter will aim to convey to the employer why you're a great candidate for the role. What is the purpose of a cover letter?

  12. What Is a Cover Letter? Types and How To Write One

    Cover Letter: A cover letter is a written document submitted with a job application explaining the applicant's credentials and interest in the open position. Since a cover letter is often one of ...

  13. What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?

    A well-written cover letter helps to make a good first impression on the hiring manager, so learning how to write a cover letter is a critical skill to learn. Using a cover letter template is an easy way to get the format right. You just fill in the information that's specific to your qualifications and to the job you're trying to get.

  14. 7 Key Components of an Effective Cover Letter

    A cover letter introduces you to an employer through a personalized explanation of your qualifications and interest in a position. While a resume shares the technical details of your skills and work experience, a cover letter gives insight into your soft skills, attitude and motivations.

  15. How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Pro Tips

    Place your name, city, state, ZIP code, phone number and email address in your cover letter heading. Your email address should be professional like "[email protected]," and not personal like "[email protected]." Include links to your LinkedIn profile or professional online portfolio if you have one.

  16. How to Write a Cover Letter (With Tips)

    A cover letter serves as your introduction to an employer and typically accompanies an application for employment and/or a resume. A cover letter allows you to highlight the qualifications on your resume in more detail.

  17. 70+ Words to Use in a Cover Letter

    Keywords for cover letters are words or phrases describing your hard and soft skills, work experience, and job-related achievements. Essentially, the cover letter phrases you use tell the recruiter why you're the right fit for the job. The keywords you use for your cover letters can be action verbs, adjectives, or nouns.

  18. How To Write A Cover Letter: Useful Tips, Phrases and Examples

    Cover Letter Samples. Now that we have learned exactly what should be included in a cover letter, let's take a look at an example. In this case, John Doe is writing a cover letter to go alongside his application for the position of hotel manager. John Doe. 1234 Main Street. Westside. Florida. 12345. [email protected]. 1800 123456. 01/01/2020 ...

  19. How To Format a Cover Letter (With Outline and Examples)

    A cover letter is a one-page document that highlights your qualifications and often accompanies your resume when you apply for jobs. In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about creating a winning cover letter, including an outline and examples for you to follow. Explore Administrative Assistant jobs on Indeed View more jobs

  20. 3 Types of Cover Letters & When to Use Each

    However, this cover letter seeking employment does not address a specific job opening. Instead, in this letter you inquire about the existing openings and outline what you could possibly bring to the table if hired. Networking letter - the least formal of all cover letter types, this letter is written not to the company of interest ...

  21. Do We Really Need To Write Cover Letters In 2023?

    The earliest record of the cover letter for employment dates back to the 1950s according to The Atlantic, and has been used ever since as an addition to resumes, for candidates to prove to...

  22. The 10 Best Cover Letter Examples of 2023

    The best cover letters always have examples and hard numbers that prove the applicant can produce results. 9. The creative cover letter. A colorful, creative letter like this is sure to stand out from the pile of traditional black and white cover letters that hiring managers see every day:

  23. How to Create a Compelling Cover Letter in Microsoft Word

    Use Microsoft Word's Cover Letter Templates . Formal letters don't have to be bland. Go to File > More templates on Word, and type "cover letter" in the search box. You'll find several ...

  24. FAQ: Is a Cover Letter Necessary? (Plus What Optional Means)

    In general, a cover letter can only help your job application—unless the job posting specifically requests you not submit one, that is. The impact of a well-written, error-free cover letter can potentially mean the difference between landing a job interview or not.

  25. How to write an engineer cover letter (With examples)

    The steps are as follows: 1. Research the role and company. Before you start writing, you need to acquaint yourself with the company you are applying to and the specific role. An effective cover letter should always be tailored to the role and company in question, and you can best achieve this by researching beforehand.

  26. January 2024 updates for modernization and theming in Power Apps

    Note: This blog is in continuation of the series of modern controls coming to canvas apps. We provided updates for November and December in the 2023 recap of modern controls.. Modern controls updates in canvas apps. W e continued enhancing modern controls and theming and delivered some key enhancements, which are rolling out to our customers at the time of publish.