what to say instead of love in a cover letter

14 common cover letter phrases and what you can use instead

When you’re working on a cover letter, it’s very difficult to keep your writing fresh throughout the whole document.

It’s all too easy to repeat the same word twice across multiple paragraphs without even realizing you’ve done so. And unfortunately, this can be the sort of thing that hiring managers will mark against you — especially in positions that require a strong written ability.

So, we’ve put together this helpful list of words that might appear in your cover letter along with some synonyms to use instead. Let’s transform you from a strong people manager with a strong background in building strong teams into a more well-rounded candidate, eh?

In most situations, there’s likely to be a more suitable way to say ‘eager’. Here are some options for you:

• “I’m eager to hear from you” —> “I look forward to exploring my fit for this role with you”
• “I’m eager to join a company like yours” —> “Joining a company I respect is important to me”
• “I’m a marketing graduate eager to find my first role” —> “I’m a marketing graduate looking to grow as a professional”

On its own there’s nothing wrong with the word ‘excited’, but you shouldn’t be saying it 17 times throughout your document. If that happens, here are some synonyms you can use instead:

• “I’m excited to apply to you” —> “I had to apply as soon as I could”
• “I’m excited to progress my career with you” —> “This would be the next natural step in my career”
• “I’m excited about expanding my skills in the role” —> “This role is an ideal place for me to expand my skills”

3. Experience

It’s very easy to say ‘experience’ too frequently in your cover letter, so try these alternatives to keep things varied:

• “My experience with cloud systems makes me” —> “My expertise in cloud systems makes me”
• “I’m looking to build more experience in marketing” —> “This position would help me become a more complete marketer”
• “I’m experienced with leading teams and setting goals” —> “Working as a team leader at [company name] has made me comfortable managing direct reports and setting goals”
• “I’m a great fit for this role because of my experience in sales” —> “My background as a senior salesperson makes me a natural fit for this role”

4. I am confident

The issue with “I am confident” isn’t that it’s likely to get overused — it’s just not necessary in most cases. Here, we’ll show you:

• “I am confident I have the background needed to succeed in your sales team” —> “I have the background needed to succeed in your sales team”
• “I am confident that my customer service experience will prove vital in the role” —> “My customer service experience will prove vital in the role”

5. I believe

‘I believe’ is the same as ‘I am confident’; you don’t usually need it:

• “I believe I have the background needed to succeed in your sales team” —> “I have the background needed to succeed in your sales team”
• “I believe that my customer service experience will prove vital in the role” —> “My customer service experience will prove vital in the role”

6. I have experience

It’s perfectly fine to start a sentence with ‘I have experience’, just don’t use it in every single one. Use these alternatives instead to avoid sounding like a broken record:

• “I have experience in social media and paid ads” —> “I’m well-versed in social media and paid ads”
• “I have experience in startup companies” —> “I’ve come to thrive in a startup environment”
• “As requested in the job description, I have 2 years of experience in hospitality” —> “I’m a qualified hospitality professional with 2 years of relevant experience”
• “I have experience in similar positions to what you’re hiring for” —> “I’ve previously worked as a [job title] so would pick up the responsibilities quickly”

7. Interest

You might be looking for synonyms of ‘interest’ for a couple of reasons. Either you’re using it too often, or it’s sounding overly formal. We can help with both:

• “I’m writing to express my interest in this position” —> “I’d like to apply to your [job title] position”
• “I’m interested in reading and spending time in nature” —> “I enjoy reading and spending time in nature”
• “My interests include reading and spending time in nature” —> “Outside of work you’ll find me reading or spending time in nature”

According to your cover letter, you love the company you’re applying to, the job itself, and the opportunity to learn. But just how many **things can you love in a job application? Keep your writing fresh with these substitutes:

• “I love what your company does to support its employees” —> “I respect how your company supports its employees”
• “I love to work in a team” —> “I work best when collaborating with others”
• “I love working in a small company because I can see the results of my work” —> “Seeing the results of my work inspires me to keep improving”

9. Opportunity

How can you apply to a job opportunity without constantly saying ‘opportunity’? With these synonyms, of course:

• “I would excel in this opportunity” —> “I would excel in this position”
• “I had to apply to this opportunity” —> “I had to apply to this vacancy”
• “Thank you for the opportunity to join you” —> “Thank you for your consideration”

10. Passion

People can get a bit too passionate with their use of this word — not to mention it’s a weaker choice than some of the alternatives. Shake it up with these contenders:

• “I’m a passionate marketer who’s ready for a new challenge” —> “I’m a dedicated marketer who’s ready for a new challenge”
• “I have a passion for helping others through my work” —> “Helping others through my work energizes me”
• “I have a passion for deploying quality-of-life improvements” —> “I find deploying quality-of-life improvements to be immensely satisfying”

If you’re skilled in everything, doesn’t that dilute the word’s meaning? Here are some other ways to talk about your skills:

• “I have skills in paid marketing and social media” —> “Paid marketing and social media are my top strengths”
• “I’m skilled in Photoshop” —> “I’m an expert in Photoshop”
• “I’m a skilled people manager” —> “I’m a capable people manager”

The same goes for ‘strong’. If everything is a strength of yours, then the hiring manager is going to question how much weight that word holds with you:

• “I’m a strong marketer” —> “I’m an exceptional marketer”
• “I have strong knowledge of Premiere and other video editing software” —> “I have in-depth knowledge of Premiere and other video editing software”
• “I would be a strong addition to your team” —> “I would be an immediately-contributing member of your team”

13. To whom it may concern

Unless you’re applying in an exceptionally formal industry, then it’s time to ditch ‘To whom it may concern’. If you know the name of the hiring manager, then address your cover letter to them directly. If you don’t know their name, there are still plenty of alternatives:

• Dear hiring manager

14. Yours sincerely

Here’s another cover letter phrase that’s outdated. Unless you’re applying in a formal industry, then end your cover letter with a more modern sign off, like:

• All the best
• Best wishes
• Kind regards

If you’ve found the synonym you were looking for but still need help with your cover letter, we have some other resources to guide you:

💡 Full cover letter guide

🎓 Writing a cover letter for an internship

All that’s left to say is the very best of luck with your application! We’re all rooting for you here.

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• Condolences & What To Say

60 Best Alternatives to ‘Sincerely’ for a Card, Email or Text

Updated 04/5/2024

Published 02/26/2020

Amy Wolkenhauer, BA in English/Creative Writing

Contributing writer

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

Using the appropriate letter closing can save you from some TMI with the local florist, help you solidify that perfect cover letter, or show appreciation for someone’s time via email or snail mail. 

To craft the best closing, reflect back on the content of your correspondence, and consider how you want to leave the conversation—so to speak. While the good old “sincerely” may be appropriate, it’s also dated and may lack that oomph you might be looking for. Explore some of the options listed to see what serves you best!

Jump ahead to these sections:

• Informal or Personal Alternatives to Sincerely

Formal or Business Alternatives to Sincerely

Alternatives to sincerely for a cover letter, alternatives to sincerely for a condolence or sympathy card, funny alternatives to sincerely, friendly alternatives to sincerely, informal or personal alternatives to sincerely .

This is a place where you can be as creative as you like. Alternatively, you can stick to some safe options that are both sentimental and sweet, perfect for an informal email, ecard, or physical card ( like this small pack of blank greeting cards .) You’ll find both options below.

1. With Love,

This sweet letter closing adds more than just a simple little "love." It's perfect for an email, birthday card, or floral arrangement card. This closing fills the need to magnify your feelings, yet it prevents you from having to share too much with the local florist.

2. Happy Summer!

This exuberant letter closing should reflect the content of the email. Perhaps you want to express how you feel about the impending time off. Or maybe you've been having a wonderful summer and want to share the sentiment.

3. I hope you have a great day!

This letter closing takes the typical farewell and makes it into something so much more sincere.

It's the perfect closing in a card for an extended family member with whom you have a bond, whether they are an aunt, uncle, or cousin. This message can also work as an opening for an email, similar to " I hope you're doing well ."

4. Warmest Regards,

This letter closing is appropriate when you’d like to sign off in a warm, empathetic, and caring manner. The closing also works well when you are on the receiving end of sympathy and goodwill like a funeral thank you card or a get well card .

5. Bye for now…

This email or letter closing is open-ended. It's perfect for the neighbor with whom you stay in touch or check up on as well as any old classmate from high school or college.  

6. Gotta Boogie!

This text closing is perfect for that old friend with whom you spent most of your formative years. It may sound a little dated, but if you want to leave them with a smile and fond memories, this may be a way to do it.

7. Lots of Love,

This closing works for times when someone needs a lot of encouragement.

For example, if you have a niece or nephew struggling at home or in school, this closing tells them to " stay strong " and offers the support they need to hear. It also works as a sympathy message for anyone who has lost a loved one.

8. Your Friend,

While this email sign-off may seem a bit bland, it's the opposite of boring. The closing is really nothing but honest and completely sincere, which makes it the best for someone with whom you have a beautiful friendship.

9. Yours ‘til the Cat Meows!

This closing also relates to the honesty of a friendship, but perhaps this one is a bit more magical.

It's a beautiful closing for the person in your life who just gets you, and no matter how much time lapses, whenever you get together, it's like no time has passed at all.

10. Yours Respectfully,

If you’re sending along get well wishes for your boss or other company personnel, this phrase can tie up your message in a bow. 

You can maintain the separation of work-home life while letting them know you have heard about their situation.

The selections below relate to both you as the consumer as well as you as a business associate seeking information. Here, your correspondence will either resonate or flub, so pick one that’s best suited for the situation, whether you're sending a corporate sympathy gift basket or a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers .

11. Cordially,

This ending is suitable for anyone who wants to remain as neutral as possible without resorting to the standard "sincerely."

It works well if you have met or corresponded a few times, but the relationship is very much in a business-to-business channel.

12. Yours Respectfully,

Finishing an email with “yours respectfully” wraps up a correspondence you have had with a business associate in some capacity or other. It is also neutral enough to make you feel like you’re on a level playing field.

13. Best Regards,

Trying out your formal email formula? Sticking with “best regards” is perfectly acceptable in almost any situation from a professional-professional setting or to a student-mentor setting.

14. With Appreciation,

Should you be looking for advice or help from someone in a professional circumstance, this could be a nice way to remind them of your interest.

Also, if you have had some prior contact, this is also useful to send in the follow-up and closing letter suggesting that your business needs have been met.

15. Warmly,

A lot of times over email, you can develop a friendly connection with someone over time and have shared some laughs over the long-term.

Ending an email with the word “warmly” is suitable if you have been working one-on-one with regards to a project. It may be a little awkward however if you send it to more than a few close work folks.

16. Thank you for your assistance in this matter,

This formal closing phrase may work when you have concerns or complaints with a product or person within the company. It can also be a way to find out more about an item's warranty, the company guarantee, or a possible replacement.

17. Thank you for your time,

When you are unfamiliar with someone, but you know that they are doing you a favor by addressing your query, saying thank you for your time is always good. It shows that person that although you are adding to their work pile, you also appreciate the time they spend helping you.

18. Your help is greatly appreciated,

Like the above, this closing reflects on your knowledge of someone having worked diligently to make sure your request has not gone unnoticed. 

19. Thank you for your recommendation,

When someone has responded to your initial question, send your gratitude over by wrapping up your message with this.

Saying thanks for a recommendation helps especially if you are new in town or at a job and need help finding some things.

20. In Appreciation,

If all else fails, remind someone that you appreciate them for their work. If someone has gone above and beyond to help you, consider using this term to add the right ending to your message of thanks.

Finding a new job is already stressful, so don’t go over the top with a letter closing here. Keep it simple and let your resume do most of the talking.

21. Thank You,

This is easily one of the best cover letter closings to a cover letter. You don't need to put any more thought into it, and no one will look at it as lacking in any way.

22. Thank You for Your Consideration,

Sometimes the candidate pools are very big. When they are, this cover letter closing will let HR and the hiring manager than you are grateful for the time they took to actually read through your resume and cover letter.

23. Respectfully,

Again as mentioned above, using the word respectfully can help remind folks of your admiration for the work they do.

24. Respectfully Yours,

If you have developed a relationship with the hiring manager or a human resources staffer at a company, finishing up an email or letter with “respectfully yours” will let them know how much you value their help while maintaining the professional balance.

25. Most Sincerely, 

This mildly personal phrase is a simple but effective flourish when you're filling out your cover letter for admission to an undergrad, post-baccalaureate, or master's program.

Because you are looking to cultivate a strong relationship with multiple mentors, being sincere helps when applying for a job afterward.

26. With Best Regards,

“Best Regards” can elicit a sense of understanding or a bolster good relationship you may have with an admissions counselor or hiring manager. It assumes a little bit more but remains understated.

27. Kind Regards,

This cover letter closing is next to the best closing to a simple thank you. It's also very understated, lacks nothing, and will not be questioned for impertinence or insincerity.

When you're just trying to get some experience writing cover letters, this closing won't raise or lower your resume's position on the pile. If you’re looking to wrap it up succinctly, this is perfectly fine in a pinch.

29. Happy Regards,

In the event that you’re applying for a job thanks to a great network connection, using happy regards can be a positive marker to top off your letter.

But also err on the side of caution if you’re not as familiar with the hiring folks or the people who will be interviewing you, as it can sound a bit awkward and unprofessional.

30. Best Regards, 

And finally, “Best Regards” is the most accepted and succinct way of finishing up a cover letter. The closing says that you are eager and business savvy, and they have a lot to look forward to from you.

Continue to offer emotional support with your closing words on any condolence or sympathy card using one of the following options.

31. Sending our love,

This message is a simple but perfect alternative to using ‘sincerely.’ Though you and your family can’t be there, it says you’re sending as much of your love as possible.

32. Our hearts continue to be with you all,

Writing that your collective hearts are with others while they grieve assures them your love extends beyond that hour or day. It’s also for every moment after that that your loved ones need uplifting, talk to, or a shoulder to cry on.

33. You’re in our prayers,

Religious or spiritual closings convey that you’re bringing loved ones into your contemplations, meditations, and continued thoughts. Share it with anyone who understands that this is how your heart works when supporting others.

34. May God hold you in His heart,

Here’s another closing that’ll reflect your religious values. The one just prior is internal and reflective, whereas this one is more of a plea for God’s assistance.

35. You are loved, 

When loss is present, loneliness plays havoc on a person’s mental state. To help, leave this message so your loved one knows that there are people who think about them — and love them.

36. With deep sympathy,

Close your letter indicating that you share a common understanding of your loved one’s sorrow, pain, and continued heartache. Let them know you’re compassionate towards their feelings.

37. Forever in our hearts, 

Though a person may have died, they remain in people’s thoughts, hearts, and conversations. Most people want you to continue mentioning their loved ones because it keeps their memory alive.

38. You’re in our hearts, 

This closing indicates that your friend or loved one is in your present thoughts and will continue to be central in conversation or emotions. 

39. Wishing your family peace and strength, 

Sorrow caused by the loss of a loved one can be so overwhelming that the two things that are certainly toughest to muster are peace and strength. Wish that for your loved one and their family so they may find it sooner rather than later.

40. With loving memories of Hugo,

If you like or if the culture indicates it’s appropriate, go ahead and mention the name of the person who died. And then continue to keep them alive in future conversations or even gift-giving. 

Check below for sarcasm and humor using iconic phrasing from bygone eras, movie or television catchphrases, radio communication, and some obvious cultural references.

41. Rock on,

Never out of date is the iconic party and celebratory phrasing of ‘rock on.’ Use it to indicate your support for anyone maintaining that youthful rock star glow or mentality.

42. You’re a gift that keeps on giving all year long,

This phrase comes straight out of the “Christmas Vacation” movie. It conjures up memories of a non-nutritive varnish on a metal snow disc, frozen features while hunting for the perfect tree, and visits by the best-in-show family members.

43. Keep on keepin’ on, 

One interpretation is to keep going, building, and climbing, or at the very least, maintain the current lifestyle. Another might be to hold steady until the storm passes.

44. God save the Queen,

If you’re a British Royalist, this closing line indicates loyalty, but it’s all about having a good time if you love the punk scene. 

45. Burn after reading, 

Here’s a closing remark for sending sensitive material, including secrets or gossip. 

Or use it when your letter is completely mundane and boring for the effect of sarcasm.

46. Over and out, 

When you’ve had a long talk via emails or texts, use ‘over and out’ to indicate you’ve reached the fullness of time on that subject.

47. Right on.

Some phrases have several meanings—and this is one of them. In this instance, leave ‘right on’ without any additional signatures to indicate and emphasize positive conclusions. 

48. Power to the people.

In the 60s and 70s, this phrase meant empowerment for the masses. And like all good things, a lot of ideas come back around. So, if you’ve been chatting about making improvements in your life or community, drop this at the end of your conversation.

49. Damn the man. 

Leave ‘damn the man’ at the end of your conversation stream for a genuinely sarcastic point of view regarding government, policy, and more. 

Or insert it to mean that you support your friend’s journey despite the hurdles they’re about to encounter.

50. Be good and be good at it, 

Using an ‘and’ in contrast to an ‘or’ in this particular sign-off is about conjuring the best of oneself when striving for improvement. Add it to your closing if you’ve just left an uplifting character report of your friend, trying to build them up so they can climb that mountain.

Below are closing messages from the perspective of mentorship, long friendships, companions, and fur kids. 

51. In Solidarity,

Being in solidarity means having something in common, being supportive, having the same purpose or goal, and having someone’s back.

Use it if you’re showing support for a friend going through a rough time or if you’re part of a nonprofit or social goods organization.

52. To Be Continued, 

Long-term relationships understand life’s sequels and sagas. Over time, your conversations build and build into one beautiful story.

With this closing, you never have to say ‘goodbye’ or ‘farewell.’ Instead, you leave the ending open to whatever comes your way.

Aloha has a few meanings: hello and goodbye, living in harmony with the natural world, and respecting the earth and each other. 

It’s not your typical closing from, say, a Midwesterner, but it would certainly work if you’re vacationing in Hawaii or just returned with a new outlook on life.

54. Peace out,

‘Peace out’ works for meaningful friendships instead of anything business-related. You wouldn’t use it if you were chatting up HR about a new job or complaining about a product. That said, it could work for your surf shop newsletter.

55. Stop being afraid of getting older, 

Without sounding too pretentious, you can impart some wisdom in your closing statements that aptly apply to your conversations with others.

This one works for the person whose worry-ometer about aging is off the charts.

56. Remember - words and ideas can change the world,

If your role in the relationship is as a mentor or sage, leave lasting bits of encouragement in your email closings like this one.

Give your friends opportunities to realize their potential, intimating or giving voice to the wisdom they already possess.

57. Always in my thoughts, 

This closing would work for those impenetrable and deep friendships. You’re not suggesting anything out of line or context when you use it. It’s really about letting someone know you value them.

58. I ruff you fur-ever,

Furkids are getting in on this action, too. This one is tame, but watch out for those goofballs who can get cheesier with their pet puns. Gotta love it. 

59. Be safe, healthy, and happy,

Send healthy wishes instead of just leaving a blah ‘sincerely’ after your message. Wish them good fortune, favor, and more to show your overall love and support.

60. Stay as you are,

I don’t know about you, but most people start a friendship with someone because they’re unique and wonderful, right? Then let them know to keep on with all that loveliness and not change a bit.

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Common Cover Letter Phrases to Avoid

So, you’ve written your cover letter… you’ve customized it for the company and position you’re seeking, you’ve opened and closed strongly, and you’ve stated your case. You’re ready to submit your application, but before you do, go back through your cover letter one more time and eliminate these commonly used phrases because they can kill even the strongest of cover letters.

1) “I think I’d be a great fit.”

Opinion phrases can inadvertently cast doubt on what you’re saying. You “think” you’d be a great fit? Why don’t you know you’d be a great fit? Would other people disagree with you and think you wouldn’t be great fit? Why do you only think you’d be a good fit? You don’t want to leave these thoughts in the hiring manager’s mind.

These types of opinion phrases can make you sound insecure. Sure, you may have simply been trying to avoid sounding too cocky, but instead, you’ve undermined your own abilities. Don’t use opinion phrases. Period. And keep in mind that sentences such as “I’m confident I’d be a good fit” are also opinion phrases that can cause similar problems.

Instead, drop the opinion part of the sentence and just state your position because if you’re saying it, it’s obviously your opinion. You don’t need to clarify that it’s your opinion. Moreover, simply stating, “I’d be a great fit,” is far more convincing than the same message with “I think” or “I’m confident” in front of it. It’s also shorter and gets right to the point.

Cover letters often highlight our best qualities, but if everything is just “good” – i.e., “I’m a good writer,” “I have good project management skills,” “I’m good at working with other people” – we actually sound rather average.

There are so many more exciting adjectives that we could use that will really make us sound spectacular. For example: “I’m an accomplished writer,” “I have expert project management skills,” and “I’m efficient and experienced at working with other people.” These small word choice changes make these phrases take on a whole different connotation. Clearly the person being described in this paragraph is much more qualified than the one described in the first paragraph.

Here’s a list of many other words that you can substitute for the word “good” that will help you shine throughout your cover letter:

Skilled, talented, experience, accomplished, expert, successful, apt, seasoned, thorough, capable, competent, efficient, etc.

Use any one of these (and more) words to replace “good” and see how quickly your cover letter improves.

3) “This position would help me because…”

Sometimes we may feel inclined to describe how a position fits well with us and our goals in efforts to explain why we’re applying for the job. Thus, it may seem fitting to describe how a certain job would help you further develop your leadership skills, for example. However, the hiring manager truly does not care how this job can help you. He is primarily concerned with how you will help him and the company . That’s it.

So instead of trying to use these types of arguments to explain why you’re applying for the job, use a different tactic. Simply describe your abilities in the context of the company’s needs and then detail how, together, you two can achieve the company’s desired results and goals. You can fix their problems and address their needs – THAT is why you are applying for the job.

4) “As you can see on my resume…”

If the hiring manager can see it on your resume, you don’t need to highlight its presence there. They can see it for themselves.

Similar to point #1, this is a phrase that could indicate some insecurity on your part. If you have the experience, it should be blatantly obvious on your resume; thus, you shouldn’t have to point it out.

So instead of saying, “As you can see on my resume, I’ve been working in medical communications for the last three years; thus, I will be an asset to the marketing department of XYZ pharmaceutical company,” drop the first part, and just say, “I’ve been working in medical communications for the last three years; thus, I will be an asset to the marketing department of XYZ pharmaceutical company.” This is a more direct statement that is not only stronger, but also projects unwavering confidence.

5) “I’m the best candidate because…”

Speaking of confidence… confidence in a cover letter is great, but there is a fine line between confident and cocky. If you are overly confident, you will merely appear arrogant.

You may believe you are the “best” candidate, but without reading ALL of the applications yourself, you really can’t be completely sure that you are indeed THE best candidate for the position. And imagine if you were the hiring manager and you read 10 cover letters in a row, all of which stated that they were either “the best candidate,” “the ideal candidate,” or “the perfect candidate.” That would get pretty annoying rather quickly and you’d probably dismiss all of them.

Instead, remain confident without crossing the line into arrogance and cockiness by using any of these words:

Excellent, great, terrific, strong, outstanding, unique, etc.

Conveying the idea that you would be “a strong candidate” for the position is much more accurate, demonstrates your confidence, and doesn’t overstate your abilities.

Eliminating these five common phrases from your cover letter will instantly make your letter sound stronger, and, in turn, your letter will be much more effective.

Your cover letter is your first opportunity to impress the hiring manager. Don’t unintentionally doubt your own abilities, make yourself sound average, or frustrate the hiring manager in the process. You never get a second chance to make a first impression, and with cover letters, that first impression comes across in your word choice, so make sure you choose words and phrases that make you shine!

** Review your cover letter(s) for these mistakes, correct them, and let us know how it goes! **

Share your thoughts below by clicking the “Leave a Reply” link or by clicking the chat bubble in the top right of the post.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Perfect Cover Letter...

Perfect Cover Letter Salutations: Start Strong

11 min read · Updated on April 24, 2024

Greet your future employer professionally with these cover letter salutations

Cover letters – some recruiters love them; some recruiters hate them. Unfortunately, you'll rarely know which type of recruiter you're contacting, so the safest bet is always to send one, just in case. 

The aim of a cover letter is to make the reader want to find out more about you, so in this article, we're looking at starting strong. 

Which are the best cover letter salutations to make a great first impression?

What is a cover letter salutation?

When we say “salutation,” we mean the opening line of the letter where you greet the person you're writing to. For example, when you write to thank your aunt for the jumper she knitted for Christmas, you might use “Dear Aunt Betty” as your salutation. These days, the salutation may refer to the opening of an email as much as to the opening of a handwritten or printed letter. 

While cover letter salutations generally refer to the opening line of your epistle, some people also refer to the sign-off as a salutation as well, so we'll look at that at the end of the article. 

Considerations when choosing cover letter salutations

A cover letter is a formal business document that you use to try to make yourself more memorable. Remember, though, you want to be remembered for the right reasons and not the wrong ones! 

Starting your letter “Yo!” or “Hey” doesn't convey the impression of a competent professional who knows the unspoken rules of office writing etiquette. 

While not everyone is a natural writer, relying instead on personality, speech, and body language, cover letters depend very much on the written word. In fact, a cover letter, along with your resume, is part of your personal sales brochure. You need to choose the right words to sell yourself effectively. 

Stick to these guidelines, and you can't go far wrong.

Keep it formal and professional

Your tone should be aligned with the tone you'd use when speaking to a teacher, religious leader, or grandma, not the tone you'd use with your mates or kid brother. This is the first impression you'll make on your potential employer, so it's important to show that you can communicate professionally , with respect, and in line with workplace norms. 

Personalize wherever possible

Bonus points if you know, or can find out, the name of the person who will be reading the letter. If you can address them by name, you're instantly showing that you've made the effort, done your research, and have taken the time to write a personalized letter rather than firing the same one off to multiple vacancies. 

Always use a salutation

Even if you can't find out the recipient's name, never leave the greeting line blank. It conveys the impression of someone who lacks attention to detail or is just plain lazy. Not a great impression to create on someone you need to impress! 

This doesn't just apply to the cover letter salutation but to the entire document. Punctuation is important as it enables your reader to accurately interpret your meaning. Use capital letters for names and add a comma after the salutation. Get a trusted friend or family member to check over your letter when it's written to help you give it the polish it needs. 

Options for cover letter salutations

Let's take a look at some different salutations you could use on your cover letter. 

Dear Mr Donnelly 

Addressing the hiring manager by name is the ideal option. If it's not given in the job posting or provided by the person connecting you, it's fine to resort to good old Google. You may find their name on the company website or be able to track them down on LinkedIn. It's also perfectly acceptable to contact the company directly and ask them who you should address your application to.

If you're lucky enough to know the name of the hiring manager, you should always use it in the cover letter salutation. Bear these considerations in mind, though: 

Double and triple check the spelling – even the most common names sometimes have unconventional spellings 

Default to “Mr,” “Mrs,” or “Miss” plus their surname and use the generic “Ms” if you're not sure whether “Mrs” or “Miss” would be most appropriate

Reflect the gender-neutral title “Mx” if that's what you find online or on the job advert

Dear Doctor Foster

If the recipient has a professional title, it's recommended you use that instead of “Mr,” “Mrs,” or “Miss.” Examples could include “Dear Professor Dumbledore,” “Dear General Eisenhower,” or “Dear Doctor House.” 

While the formal “Dear Ms Farrell” is the preferred and most formal option, if you only have the hiring manager's first name, it's perfectly acceptable to use it to open the letter. Again, check the spelling. A slightly less formal salutation here isn't a reason to take a less formal tone throughout the rest of the letter, however. This is a suitable salutation for a job application email, as you can get away with a slightly more relaxed approach in an email.

Dear HR team

If you need a greeting for a cover letter to an unknown recipient, this is a popular option. It's not ideal, but your letter is likely to be forwarded to the right department at least. If you can't find the name of the hiring manager, this is a viable Plan B. 

Dear hiring manager

This is an alternative cover letter greeting when you have no name available. It's better than leaving a blank space, but it's far from warm and personal. Additionally, your letter may not find its way to the right person if the company has different teams hiring for different roles. Try to avoid this unless you've run out of other options.

Dear Sir / Madam

This cover letter salutation is falling out of favor. It's not just impersonal; it doesn't even address a specific team or department. Still, it's better than an overly casual greeting or a blank space. 

How NOT to address a cover letter

As we've already said, there are some greetings that are just too informal to use as cover letter salutations. There are others, however, that tread a very fine line. We'd advise avoiding these openings, as they're either too colloquial or too stuffy. 

To whom it may concern

We're not in the 19th century anymore. Trim your whiskers and relegate this stuffy greeting to history, it's too impersonal even for the most uptight offices. 

Using “dear” on its own, with no name or further greeting attached, gives the wrong vibe. It sounds like a combination of your old aunt, someone unfamiliar with the English language, and someone who's forgotten to fill in a blank on their template. Literally, anything is better than nothing after the word “dear.”

Hi, hello, hi there!

While these cover letter salutations certainly aren't stuffy or over-formal, they fall too far in the other direction. They're friendly and casual but too much for an initial introduction. Save these for the interview. 

Expert tip: Read this article to find out more about cover letter mistakes to avoid: 10 of the Worst Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid  

Cover letter closing salutations

How you end is just as important as how you begin. After all, you want to end on a high! Before you come to an abrupt end, you'll want to do both of these things: 

Thank the reader for their time and consideration 

Add a call to action, for example, directing them to look at your resume or give you a call

Cover letter salutations to close 

You've started strong and used the body of the email to convince the hiring manager that you're the ideal candidate for the role. Now, it's time to choose your sign-off. 

Yours sincerely, yours truly

These two phrases should be your go-to sign-offs for a formal business letter. If you've started your letter with the recipient's name, choose sincerely; otherwise, choose truly. 

Best regards, kind regards, regards

These are all acceptable closing phrases but better suited to an email than a full letter. They veer towards the casual and aren't generally considered the best letter-writing etiquette. 

Respectfully

This is a polite way of signing off a letter, although not especially conventional or formal. While it's better than no closing at all, it would be wiser to choose a more formal option. 

How NOT to sign off a cover letter 

Just as there are ways not to start a cover letter, there are ways not to sign off. 

Well, it's polite but way too informal. “Thank you” would be better, but a line within the body of the letter saying that you appreciate the time they take to consider your application would be best. 

Just no. You're not taking leave of a friend you've just dropped in on; you're addressing your potential future employer. A more formal and respectful tone is needed. 

However you choose to end your cover letter, remember to finish with your name – and leave space above to sign it if you intend to print it out.

Cover letter examples

Below you'll find two cover letter examples with strong salutations, one a traditional letter and one an email, that you can use for inspiration. 

Traditional cover letter example

Dear Ms Searle, 

Re: Sales Manager vacancy 

Having seen your advertisement for a Sales Manager on LinkedIn, I would like to outline my professional experience and strong track record. I believe I can make a very significant contribution to Acme Corp.

In addition to extensive experience in a sales environment, I also have a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and a proven ability to meet targets. As you will see from my enclosed resume, I am a natural people person, communicating effectively with a diverse range of people and demonstrating excellent negotiation and influencing skills. My leadership abilities mean that I am able to successfully engage and motivate teams – my current team has surpassed its Q1 targets by 23%. 

I am driven, ambitious, and keen to progress my career in a growing and innovative business such as Acme Corp. I am confident that my strong work ethic, combined with my sales results and integrity, will enable me to play a key role in your success. 

Please do not hesitate to call me at 555-555-5555 so we can arrange an interview to discuss my application in greater depth. I appreciate your consideration. 

Yours sincerely,

Email cover letter example 

Dear Liz, 

Re: Assistant Security Manager vacancy (ref: 12345)

Having read your advertisement for an Assistant Security Manager with interest, I am writing to outline my extensive professional experience. I believe that I possess the talents necessary to make a positive contribution to your hotel.    

I have a comprehensive understanding of security and a commitment to exceptional service. As a Police Officer, I led teams of up to 6 personnel, overseeing security patrols and managing performance. Colleagues would recommend me for my ability to build and motivate teams to achieve exceptionally high standards and positive outcomes. 

As a manager, I take pride in providing training and development opportunities across the team to improve individual skill levels and ensure the achievement of organizational objectives.

The position at Acme Hotel is particularly appealing to me as I believe it will make the best possible use of my security and leadership skills whilst providing opportunities for further development. 

Please do not hesitate to call me at 555-555-5555 so we can arrange an interview to discuss my application in greater depth. I appreciate your consideration of my application and look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards, 

Choose the right cover letter salutations to set the right tone

As you can see, there are several options for opening and closing a cover letter. Make sure you choose one that is professional, has the right amount of formality, and shows you understand corporate communication. 

At TopResume, we create impactful resumes that land jobs. If you need help with your cover letter, we can do that, too! Why not contact us for a strong start on your journey towards a new career? 

Recommended reading: 

Resume vs Cover Letter: How They're Different

What is the perfect cover letter length?

How to Tailor Your Cover Letter for Each Job Application

Related Articles:

How to Maximize Your Resume Action Words to Wow the Employer

Resume Spelling and Accent Explained

Guide to Writing a Great Resume with No Work Experience

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"I have/am" - what are other short ways to not repeat this in a cover letter?

I use the GIS/Programing ones extensively.

For a cover letter, what are ways that you can avoid repeating

I have done .... I have experience with ... I am experienced in... ...

• cover-letter

• This question is asking for a list, something that doesn't work well with Stack Exchange sites. (How will you pick the answer? How are people expected to vote?) Could you please rewrite to tell us what you are looking for, as opposed to what you're trying to avoid? Otherwise we'll have to close. –  Goodbye Stack Exchange Commented Oct 18, 2012 at 17:39

2 Answers 2

There are actually quite a few options, many of which come naturally when you're not forced to consciously write formally.

You can change the verb into an –ing:

"Having done freelance for 8 years, I..." "Choosing to work from home has..."

or in some cases turn the verb into the subject or your sentence.

"Experience with Java has helped..."

This gives it an assertive feel, as does any other form of eliminating personal pronouns. Though one should include some personal pronouns for fear one begins to sound impersonal. :)

You can also add introductory phrases or prepositional phrases to the beginnings of your sentences:

"In my extensive set of skills, I..." "With my passion for social media, ..."

If you're currently writing the cover letter, it might be best to get all your thoughts and strengths down first before editing for repetition and word choice.

Instead of saying, "I have experience with X," consider describing what you did with X. "I created a global meteor defense system using Java and Arduino."

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged letter resume phrasing cover-letter or ask your own question .

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Letter closing other than "Love"

I am writing an email to a family member (in-law or brother/sister). While in the past I used "love" and signed off with my first name for closing, I usually wondered if there are better words I could use instead of "Love". For one thing, it sounds uncreative and a little trite. For another, it seems phony as I do not feel a close relation to some family members. What are the alternatives?

• word-choice

6 Answers 6

off the top of my head, you could use the old "yours truly" but that is distant and formal. How about "Fondly" or "Best Wishes" and "Have a great day!"

In a personal letter, while there is some traditional etiquette, you can largely close it however you'd like. Any sort of well-wishing or expression of affection/sincerity is acceptable. A few examples:

• "Best Wishes"
• "Yours Truly"
• "See you soon"
• "Wishing you good fortune in the New Year"
• "God bless"

Anything works really.

• "Best Regards"
• "Best Wishes to Your Family"

(I agree that "Love" is not always the most appropriate closing but as long as it won't be misconstrued, I err on the side of using "Love" because it is not "said" often enough!)

• I agree. Love is not said often enough. However, doesn't it sound a little imposing (or insincere?) if you are not that close to the other side? –  inewbie Commented Dec 27, 2012 at 19:55
• 1 @inewbie, I realize this is entirely based on opinion - but if imposing or not said with sincerity, it's not the best closing - but if it is someone who may be a long-time family member by marriage or someone who is not immediate family but you're close to, (like my sister-in-law or uncle's 3rd wife), I would still say "Love" - if the communication was of a personal nature. –  Kristina Lopez Commented Dec 27, 2012 at 21:32

Fond regards, Warm regards, or All the best

Closer relative: With warmest affection, With much love, or Much love to you, Dad,

Sincerely, [name]

Using an en dash before the name. (It may supposed to be an em dash , but w\e IMO, just as long as it isn't a hyphen or a plan old dash.) Personally, I omit the space to denote attribution, to avoid confusing it with any other use.

Another option is to omit the sign-off entirely or phrase it into a TL;DR:

I hope to see you at [that party I mentioned]. Don't forget to bring your towel!

Also, emotes ;)

Make a regard to an upcoming holiday such as Christmas, Halloween, The new year, or really any holiday examples: Merry Christmas, [name] Happy New Year, [name] Have a Spookly-good Halloween, [name] Love and good wishes this Valentine's, [name] but really, saying 'love' isn't so bad. love, anonymous

• Where in the world is Halloween a holiday? –  KillingTime Commented Dec 17, 2020 at 19:06
• @KillingTime Christmas Eve is considered to be a "partial" holiday...whatever that means. It is not much of a stretch to consider "All Hallow's eve" the same for "All Saint's day"... –  Cascabel_StandWithUkraine_ Commented Dec 18, 2020 at 18:45
• @KillingTime Halloween is considered a holiday in the USA, especially for families with children, although not in the sense of school/work closures. The holiday is connected with the Christian observance of All Saint's Day as well as the pagan festival Samhain. –  augurar Commented Dec 21, 2020 at 5:58

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Nine Ways To Say I Love You (Without Saying I Love You)

Whether you want to express your love to a romantic partner, a friend, or a family member, below you’ll find nine other ways to say I love you without saying I love you.

How Else Can I Say “I Love You”?

• I adore you.
• You complete me.
• You fill my heart with love.
• You’re everything to me.
• I’m crazy about you.
• I care about you.
• I appreciate you.
• You mean a lot to me.
• You matter to me.

Saying “I Love You”

Oh, love—that elusive feeling that we all experience one way or another. Love is ubiquitous and represented in various types of relationships and situations. It can mean so many different things to so many different people.

That being said, expressing love can be a challenge sometimes. Especially if you want to tell someone you love them without actually saying I love you.

Below, we’re going to give you nine different ways to say I love you, whether you’re looking for a romantic or friendly way to express it.

Keep in mind, though, that expressing love has no rigid guidelines. You can use the alternatives listed below however you’d like. In other words, just because it’s labeled “romantic” doesn’t mean it’s only to be used in romantic relationships. Instead, just use the following list as inspiration to help you better express your love.

Nine Ways To Say I Love You

The following five I love you synonyms are perfect to use when you want to articulate a deep, intense type of love. Romantic partners often use the alternatives below, but it’s also common among family members, like a parent to their child. The point is, the following ways of saying I love you carry a lot of weight, so use them wisely.

1. I adore you.

Happy anniversary, Cheryl. I adore you .

2. You complete me.

I’m so happy with you. You complete me .

3. You fill my heart with love.

Happy Valentine’s Day! You fill my heart with love .

4. You’re everything to me.

The past few months have been wonderful. You’re everything to me .

5. I’m crazy about you.

I just want you to know I’m crazy about you .

Of course, you can love someone without being in a relationship with them or being family. Friends can love each other too. If you’re looking for a more casual way to tell someone you love them, try the alternatives below.

1. You mean a lot to me.

You mean a lot to me, Joseph. I’ll miss you while you’re gone.

2. I appreciate you.

Thanks for keeping me company. I appreciate you .

3. I care about you.

I just want to let you know I care about you .

4. You matter to me.

Our friendship means a lot. You matter to me .

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7 Cover Letter Words and Phrases That Are Costing You the Job

You want this job. You’re putting everything you’ve got into this  cover letter . You’ve tailored it to the role and company, written an amazing opening , and made sure you’re showing just enough enthusiasm . But still, you want to go that extra mile. You want to make sure you’re not using cover letter words and phrases that the hiring manager has read a hundred times already. You want even the most jaded, exhausted hiring manager to perk up and pay extra attention.

You’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together a list of words and phrases that can sabotage even the greatest cover letters—and will tell you what to write instead.

1. “I think I’d be a great fit…”

When I was in high school, my English teacher told us never to use “I think” in an essay because if we were writing something, well, it was obvious that was what we thought. The same holds true for cover letters. Not only are “I think,” “I feel,” “I believe,” and so on redundant, they also make you sound insecure.

Alternatives to “I think I’d be a great fit…”

Get rid of every “opinion phrase” in your cover letter. Ninety nine percent of the time, you won’t even have to reword the sentence. For example, instead of saying, “I’m confident my communication skills would make me a strong project manager,” write, “My communication skills would make me a strong project manager.” It’s shorter, simpler, and more convincing.

Sure, you could say you’re “a good writer” or “good at working with other people.” But there are so many options out there, and they’re almost all more powerful than “good.”

Alternatives to “good”

Replace “good” with one of these descriptors:

• Experienced
• Accomplished

Note: Make sure the alternative you choose accurately represents your skill or experience. If you’ve got two years’ worth of recruiting under your belt, you’d probably want to call yourself a “skilled,” “capable,” or “enthusiastic” recruiter rather than an “expert” or “experienced” one.

3. “This job would help me because…”

You, your friends, and your family members care why this job would help you. But the hiring manager does not. All they care about is finding the best person for the role. Read: They want to hire the person who would help them the most. So if you find yourself explaining how this position would help you develop your leadership skills, learn more about your desired industry, or get established as a thought leader—hit the delete key.

Alternatives to “This job would help me because…”

You do need to explain how you would help them.

Here’s the magic formula: your abilities + the company’s needs = desirable results.

Let’s say you’re applying for a front-end engineering job. By following this formula, you’d get:

“My four years of experience with open-source JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS3, combined with my passion for building responsive web applications, would allow me to create elegant, maintainable, and functional front-end code—and ultimately make Panther’s products even more user-friendly than they already are.”

4. “As you can see on my resume…”

This is a common filler phrase. But if the hiring manager can see something on your resume, announcing its presence is unnecessary.

Alternatives to “As you can see on my resume…”

All you have to do is remove this phrase—no other changes needed! So instead of saying, “As you can see on my resume, I’ve been working in marketing and PR for the last five years,” you’d write, “I’ve been working in marketing and PR for the last five years.” Bonus: Your directness will project confidence.

5. “I’m the best candidate because…”

Confidence is good, but arrogance is not. And even if you’re sure that you’d be an absolutely fantastic choice, you don’t know you’re the best . Imagine reading through six cover letters in a row from people who all claim to be “the best candidate.” That would get annoying pretty quickly, right?

To stay on the hiring manager’s good side, refrain from using “best.” Along similar lines, I’d also stay away from “ideal” and perfect.”

Alternatives to “I’m the best candidate because…”

You want to choose descriptors that are in between “good” and best.” Words like:

• Outstanding

6. “To whom it may concern”

There’s no quicker way to communicate to a hiring manager that you’re not truly interested in a job than to address your cover letter in such a bland, impersonal way. Not only does it sound old fashioned, but it tells whoever’s reading that you couldn’t be bothered to figure out the name of the hiring manager, an HR employee, or even the department you’d be working for. 

Alternatives to “To whom it may concern”

Your first choice for addressing a cover letter is always the hiring manager for the position. If you can’t figure out who the hiring manager is, read this list of other options —all of which are infinitely better than “To whom it may concern.”

7. “I may not have a lot of experience, but…”

…or any other phrase that  apologizes for not meeting the exact requirements for a position . Your cover letter is a place to make the strongest case possible for yourself, so you don’t want to bring in any negatives.

Alternatives to “I may not have a lot of experience, but…”

Just get rid of this phrase. Instead, focus on the qualifications you do have and all the unique ways you’d be great at this job.

Done cutting? Great, now go send the thing!

Regina Borsellino contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

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How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job In 2023 (With Examples)

• How To Write A Cover Letter
• When Is A Cover Letter Necessary
• Free Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Mistakes To Avoid
• Cover Letter Tips
• How To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter

Find a Job You Really Want In

Cover letters aren’t required with every application, but the majority of managers pay more attention to a candidate who includes a cover letter. This is especially so if you make an effort to tailor your letter to the specific position. It’s important not to just change the names and job positions, but also to show how your professional experience fits with the job.

A good cover letter greatly increases your chance of getting an interview. If you’re looking to write a cover letter, rework a letter that you have, or just want to know what’s involved in the job application process, then keep reading.

Key Takeaways:

A cover letter should be a maximum of one page long, with three to five paragraphs.

Before writing your cover letter, it’s important to reread the job description and include keywords from it.

Do research to figure out who you are addressing, and make sure to keep your greeting gender neutral if you don’t know.

Tailoring your resume to each job can help you stand out from other candidates.

What is a cover letter?

Why cover letters are important, how to write a cover letter, cover letter examples, cover letter template, do’s and don’ts in a cover letter, cover letter faq, expert opinion.

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A cover letter is a one-page document that describes your professional background, fitness for the role, and interest in the company. Cover letters are a way of introducing yourself to hiring managers in a more engaging way than resumes can.

While your resume spells out the “who, what, where, when” of your relevant experience, a cover letter fills in the “why” and “how.” A good cover letter not only expands on your resume’s accomplishments but also highlights the soft skills that make you an excellent person to work alongside.

While there are no official formatting guidelines for cover letters, hiring managers and recruiters do have certain expectations regarding structure, length, and content.

Writing a good cover letter is important because it is your chance to stand out from other potential candidates. Showing your personality while also matching the tone of the company will help recruiters to visualize how you could fit into the role.

Simply submitting a cover letter isn’t enough though. Each cover letter you write should be specifically tailored to the job you’re applying for (just like resumes). It’s essential that you show the reader that you’ve done your homework and understand exactly what function you’d be serving if hired. You do that by providing examples of past work experiences that directly relate to the responsibilities of the new job.

Cover letters are inherently unique based on who’s writing them and for what position. However, as a cover letter is a business letter, it has an expected format that it should follow. This is important because you want the hiring manager to be able to look over your cover letter quickly and understand your qualifications and interest in the position.

Here’s the standard way that a cover letter should be formatted and what to include:

The header. The header of your letter is where you should input all of the contact information for yourself and the hiring manager . Do you best to address it directly to the person who’ll be reading the letter — typically either the hiring manager or HR manager.

Traditionally, you should include both your name and address and the employer’s name and address. However, as the majority of applications are online, the employer’s address is often omitted. But a traditional cover letter’s heading would look like this:

Page Roman 444 Frog Rd. Marigold, TX, 10987 August 27th, 2021 Chris Morgan Marketing Manager New Media Company 833 Rune Rd. Marigold, TX, 10987

If you’re emailing your cover letter, you can simply include your name, telephone number, email address, and fewer address details (just your city and state will suffice). You can also include a zip code if you live in a big city with multiple zip codes.

Jessica Dancer jessica. dancer @email.email | (555)-444-3333 | Colombus, OH 43110

Be sure to use a professional-sounding email address that’s not associated with your current or past employer. It’s disrespectful to both your current employer and the company you’re applying to, and will likely hurt your chances of being invited for an interview.

The greeting or salutation. Traditionally, the best salutation would be to use Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]. Make sure that you know the person’s gender when doing this, however, as you don’t want to misgender the hiring manager. Using “Dear [First Name] [Last Name]” is becoming more popular for this reason, patriotically among younger workers.

Dear Mr. Morgan, Dear Mrs. Smith Dear Ms. Conner

Avoid using generic greetings such as “To whom it may concern” as it’ll look like you didn’t bother to personalize the letter (even if you did.) That particular phrase has become somewhat controversial as well, so if you need to put a generic address — if you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, for instance — use something else, such as:

Dear Hiring Manager Dear [Department] Manager Dear [Title of the Person You’d Report to if Hired] Dear [Department] Hiring Team

Opening paragraph. The opening of your professional cover letter should instantly grab the attention of your reader . Try to lead off with one of your most relevant and impressive accomplishments.

Open strong . Open with a statement other than your name or stating your interest in the position. Lead with an interesting experience or achievement that directly relates to the new position.

Convey your personal value. There are always other qualified applicants with similar skills, so it is key to express why you personally would bring value to the organization. Give specific details as to the value you brought in a previous position, and how that could transfer to the new role.

Show your enthusiasm. Recruiters want to hire candidates who are excited about the position. Express enthusiasm and convey why you are passionate about the role. This is another opportunity to share a quick personal anecdote related to the job.

Keep it short. All of these points in your opening paragraph shouldn’t be more than a sentence or two each. You don’t want your introduction to be too long, as you want the reader to be able to quickly go through your cover letter.

As a Content Writer with a passion for travel and literature, I was thrilled to see the Senior Content Writer position open up at BookFly. My past experience driving organic traffic by 23% YoY to the travel website, XTravel, would translate perfectly into the position’s stated goals from the job description.

First body paragraph. Here is where you should really sell yourself across several areas. Showcase how your personality traits, such as being honest or having the ability to work under pressure, make you a good fit.

Emphasize transferable skills. Explain how the skills you’ve cultivated make you the perfect fit for the role. This can include collaborative work you’ve done in the past, a leadership role you had that drove results, or interpersonal skills.

Revisit the job description. Make sure to pull relevant skills from the job description and put them in your cover letter. If the hiring manager spent the time to list those skills, they’re going to be looking for candidates that have them.

It also helps with applicant tracking systems that may sift through cover letters looking for keywords.

Don’t skimp on personality traits. These are especially important if you don’t have a lot of experience. Desirable skills such as ambition, dedication, and getting work done on time are good for both entry-level positions and if you’re making a career change.

I have a passion for content creation and a deep understanding of the content cycle, from ideation to promotion. My years in the digital publishing world have crafted my ability to drive killer CTR and resonate with an audience. Not only did CTR jump by 2.1% in the months after I was brought on board, but it had a knock-on effect on social media engagement, which rose by 8% in the same time frame. I believe good content has its roots in good data. This is why while at Media Company I created a content-marketing dashboard to highlight KPIs like those mentioned above. The dashboard allowed us to take advantage of wins more rapidly and avoid repeating losses.

Second body paragraph. Just as an employer wants to know why you’d want the role, they also want to know why you’d want to work at their company. Do your research and learn more about the core values of the company. Discuss how they align with your own.

Check the company’s website but also start to explore LinkedIn for greater insights. Employers want to make sure that you fit into the overall culture, and this is also something you should consider for yourself. However you feel you fit into the work culture, explain to the recruiter why. Paint a picture of how you’ll be better from the company, and how the company will also benefit.

I thrive in a fast-paced environment and excel at creating structures from scratch. I spearheaded our SEO efforts, developing workflows and systems to ramp up content production from zero. BookFly’s commitment to core values of “collaboration and imagination” aligns with my own preferred approach to tackling projects and dreaming of big ideas.

Closing. The closing of your letter is your final impression to the hiring manager, and therefore should clearly express your eagerness to take on the position. You don’t need to rehash all of the accomplishments and skills highlighted in previous sections. Consider this more of a statement of intent.

First, express gratitude that they took the time to consider you for the job by making it all the way through your letter. Then, quickly remind them of the benefits that you can bring to the role and company.

Finally, your closing should state a clear call-to-action (CTA) for the recruiter to take next, such as calling you to schedule an interview. Being confident and direct at the end of your cover letter helps to close the deal.

I look forward to learning more about how the Senior Content Writer operates within BookFly and the current content process. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. Sincerely, Jessica Dancer

With thousands of cover letter templates on the internet, you want to make sure you choose the right one. Here’s a basic format of what a good cover letter will contain:

Jessica Dancer [email protected] | (555)-444-3333 | Colombus, OH 43110 Dear Mr. Morgan, As a Content Writer with a passion for travel and literature, I was thrilled to see the Senior Content Writer position open up at BookFly. My past experience driving organic traffic by 23% YoY to the travel website, XTravel, would translate perfectly into the position’s stated goals from the job description. I have a passion for content creation and a deep understanding of the content cycle, from ideation to promotion. My years in the digital publishing world have crafted my ability to drive killer CTR and resonate with an audience. Not only did CTR jump by 2.1% in the months after I was brought on board, but it had a knock-on effect on social media engagement, which rose by 8% in the same time frame. I believe good content has its roots in good data. This is why while at Media Company I created a content-marketing dashboard to highlight KPIs like those mentioned above. The dashboard allowed us to take advantage of wins more rapidly and avoid repeating losses. I thrive in a fast-paced environment and excel at creating structures from scratch. I spearheaded our SEO efforts, developing workflows and systems to ramp up content production from zero. BookFly’s commitment to core values of “collaboration and imagination” aligns with my own preferred approach to tackling projects and dreaming of big ideas. I look forward to learning more about how the Senior Content Writer operates within BookFly and the current content process. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. Sincerely, Jessica Dancer

If you’re putting the cover letter in an email, you can omit putting the contact information at the top and instead include it below your signature. You want to make sure to include your name, phone number, and LinkedIn link, as well as a professional portfolio , if applicable.

Dear hiring manager: I am writing about the position of veterinary receptionist at Pet Care Clinic posted on indeed.com. I am a certified dog trainer with both Petsmart and Petco, allowing me insight into animal behavior. I’m also an aspiring novelist , making me a fast, experienced typist as well as adept with Microsoft Word and Apple Pages. Since I’ve worked at pet stores for several years, I am familiar with different kinds of animal and animal care, as well as building a rapport with pet owners. While I enjoy working with animals and my coworkers, I would like to move into a business where I can continue to learn and build on my experience. I would also like to work for a smaller business. Veterinary medicine has always interested me, and I very much enjoy learning new things. I’m eager to learn more about it in order to help customers make the best choices for their pets. I’ve always enjoyed working with animals, even before I was able to get a job that allowed me to. I grew up with dogs and cats, so I’m comfortable and familiar with their behavior. Being a pet owner myself, I’m able to understand what customers are looking for in a veterinary clinic and tailor the experience to their needs. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Michelle Bolivar Email: [email protected] Phone: (555) 545-9706

[your contact information] [date] Dear [Hiring Manager], I’m writing to apply for the open [position] at [company] that you posted [place job ad was found]. I believe that my [relevant experience] would be an excellent fit with [company name]. I have long been interested in [specific industry/department], and particularly your company because [why you’re interested in the company/awards they have won/accomplishments]. That experience and [relevant skills] that I’ve cultivated as a [current position] for [time worked in position or industry] will be an asset to the company as it’ll make me effective [at the job/particular aspect of the job]. The [responsibilities required in the job description] will be a [challenge/interesting task] and I look forward to making use of my [relevant skills]. I excel at [working with a team/working alone] and I want to use my expertise to further [company’s] success. I am excited about the possibilities this position holds, and I believe that my qualifications ensure I’d be an asset to your team. I look forward to being able to further discuss the details of the position and my qualifications with you in an interview. Please let me know if you require further information from me. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, [Your name] [Your contact information (if it’s an email)

Knowing the proper format of a cover letter is the most important factor, of course, but there are some additional dos and don’ts that if you follow can make your cover letter better. It’s during the editing process, it’s important to go over and make sure that you haven’t made any common mistakes that’ll hurt your chances.

Here are 10 dos and don’ts for writing a good cover letter:

Do’s:

Do start by scanning the original job posting for keywords you can include in your letter.

Do be proud of your accomplishments and make sure to highlight them.

Do clearly express why you would be an asset to the organization.

Do tailor your cover letter to every hiring manager and position that you apply for.

Do try to find unique experiences, but make sure to always discuss measurable and relevant results.

Don’ts:

Don’t feel the need to lie about your skills or accomplishments. One of the worst mistakes to make is being caught in a lie.

Don’t copy and paste a template and only change your name and job titles. Recruiters will not see the value in a plug-in-play cover letter that has been used by multiple applicants.

Don’t forget to be direct and include a call to action.

Don’t make your cover letter too long. Similar to your resume, you want the reader to sum up who you are and get a quick explanation of why you’re a good fit.

Don’t forget to proofread. Grammatical errors on a cover letter and resume are a quick way to get your packet in the “no pile”.

What do you write in a cover letter?

In a cover letter, you should mostly write about impressive accomplishments from past jobs or academic experiences that relate to the job you’re applying for.

What is the purpose of cover letter?

The purpose of a cover letter is to help a hiring manager see why your background makes you suitable for the role in question. While a resume lists achievements, educational background , and skills , it doesn’t give the reader an idea of your actual expertise or personality.

A cover letter allows you to share your approach to work, as well as your ability to communicate your value effectively. A good cover letter makes it easy for a reader to think “I could imagine this person working for us.”

How do you write a simple cover letter?

To write a simple cover letter, start with the header and greeting we outlined above. Next, state your interest in the position (give the exact job title as listed in the job description) and mention your years of industry/job experience.

To keep your cover letter simple, you can now briefly mention in 1-2 sentences or 3-4 bullet points what parts of your background are most important for the hiring manager.

Finally, thank the reader for considering your application, and sign off as usual (e.g., “Sincerely, [full name]”).

What is the best way to start a cover letter?

The best way to start a cover letter is with an accomplishment that speaks directly to your ability to provide value for the company. Other good strategies include describing your long-standing passion for the field, mentioning an important reference at the company, or referring specifically to challenges the company is currently facing.

Do you introduce yourself in a cover letter?

No, you do not introduce yourself in a cover letter. By that we mean you do not say “My name is so-and-so” — you simply jump into your background and why you’re interested in the position.

Your name can be found at the bottom of the cover letter, as well as the header, your email address, and your resume, so there’s no need to force it awkwardly into your cover letter’s opening.

How do you end a cover letter?

To end a cover letter, thank the reader for their time and/or consideration, express enthusiasm for further correspondence and conversation, and sign off with a standard closing like “Sincerely.”

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be a maximum of one page long, with three to five paragraphs. Half a page is the shortest that your cover letter should be.

Harvard Business Review — How to Write a Cover Letter

University of Washington — Writing the Cover Letter

What’s a quick cover letter tip?

Michael Akbar Vice President Certified Professional Career Coach

Use your six seconds to show the employer in a tailored cover letter and resume that you understand their pain and will make their lives better if put in the position.

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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17 Amazing Tips for Writing Your Cover Letter like a Love Letter

Your cover letter should be a proof to tell to your manager that you are the right person for the job. Be passionate about the job as much as you can. Try to write a cover letter in such a way that the employer should have utmost belief in you. There are many ways in which you could write the perfect cover letter. As when you write a love letter, you try to express your passion and interest towards the recipient. A good cover letter should be similar in that manner. You are expressing your love for the job to the employer via the cover letter.

What Cover Letter Should Include?

1. try to include your past experiences:.

While writing a cover letter, you should assure the recipient that you are always ready for any circumstance and that you are ready to face any emergencies or challenges that occur. The main purpose of a love letter is to convey the other person that you are willing and ready to protect and safeguard them. Similarly, a cover letter should be seen as a way of communicating your interests for the job towards the employer.

State what all goals you have achieved for the company during your previous job. Try to create an impression that you are well adapted for working under pressure and stress. Try to take the role as a problem solver. Make a good impression for the employer that you are a reliable person when an emergency arises. Also include examples of instances where you have played a key role and achieved positive results.

For example, you could include instances like “During my previous job, I worked as a sales representative and as a part of my job, I created lists of potential clients and customers and tried to secure a large number of deals for the company.” the employer gets an idea that you are a hardworking individual and that you are very meticulous in your work.

2. Know the employer:

Love letters are used to court loved ones, by expressing their interests for one another. Talk about the little things that make them special to you. Knowing one another builds a strong sense of trust and loyalty between one another. Love letters explain why one person loves the other. Writing a love letter makes them special and feel loved.

Before submitting a cover letter for the job, make sure that you know the basic details about the employer. One of the common mistakes that every jobseeker face is that they always write incorrect information about the employer. Sometimes candidates mix up the gender of the employer, they may incorrectly write the name of the employer, or address the employer wrongly in terms of his/her designation. All these mistakes can be prevented with the help of a simple research. Try to ensure that you know all the basic details about the employer correctly.

Moreover, learn about the needs of the employer and understand what they need to see in their ideal candidate. Try to reflect these qualities to the employer through your cover letter.

3. Create the perfect cover letter:

When creating a love letter, try to include points and details, so that “the only one“ likes it. Love letters can be in the form of a long poem, how you feel for them and tell them what all details you like about them. Make sure that the feeling is mutual and resonates with each other effectively.

To create the perfect cover letter, always think carefully about what to write and what not to write. Take some time for thinking. Try to ensure that each and every word creates an effect to the employer. Instead of slapping a bunch of information about yourself and your achievements, try to present the information in a systematic manner. Try to draw more attention towards the overall construction of the project. Spend more time in phrasing the cover letter correctly and cross check every once in a while. Ensure that the punctuation is right and there are no spelling mistakes. No employer wants a jobseeker who presents a poorly written cover letter.

4. Proclaim your devotion:

When you write a love letter, there is only one underlying purpose: to declare to them how much you feel about the other person and to convey your love and devotion to them. Try to show how much love you feel about the recipient. A cover letter should be written in a similar pattern. You should convey your love towards the job that you are applying to.

In your cover letter, state the reasons that why you think that the job is ideal for you, and state the reasons that why you think you are the ideal employee for the job. Sell your characteristics to your potential employer through your cover letter. Explain what all qualities you have with the appropriate examples. Also, explain the reasons what aspect of the job you love the most, to the employer. The employer should get a clear image of how passionate you are about the job.

5. Draw attention from the employer:

Love letters are written to attract one’s attention and to let them know how much love you feel towards them. It is a great way to show your degree of interest and passion towards the recipient. Try to tempt them and make them feel wanted and loved. Also, try to make them contented by stating why you feel an interest towards them. The cover letter should be written in the same manner. A cover letter should also have points and details that shows how much researching you have done about the company.

Try to write a cover letter that will attract the employer’s attention towards you. Write sentences and phrases that will attract them. Also write reasons why you think the company is a good option for you. Provide appropriate explanations about the various working traditions of the company. This will create an impression to the employer that you have done a thorough research about the company. This will easily impress the employer. Exemplify and stress out your strengths and capacities. Do not use overused terms like “team player” or a “people – person”. Try not to be clichéd in your approach and also in your writing style. Try to be descriptive about your skill as much as possible and back it up with a suitable anecdote.

6. Freely express your love:

While writing a love letter, one of the main points that stand out is how the sender expresses their love for the recipient. Consider the cover letter as a chance to serenade the employer with your words and points. Try to woo the employer by stating the qualities of the employer. A cover letter should contain examples and statements on how much you love and look up to the employer. Point out what all qualities of the employer you admire the most. Also, add examples to back up your statements. Also, try to praise about the works of the employer.

For example : “ I like the way how you sell only environmental friendly and consumer friendly cars in the region, even though your company is the one of the largest car retailers present in the city. Being an environmentalist myself, I like how your company introduced low cost hybrid cars to the market and how it has helped in the betterment of the surrounding environment.”

7. State the final operation:

At the end of every love letter, there is a phrase that intimates future meetings with the sender and the recipient. Many love letters end by asking the recipient questions like “will you be my valentine”, ”will you be the love of my life” and so on. This decides whether the recipient wants to continue the relation or take the relationship to the next step. A cover letter should also have a similar purpose. A cover letter should be successful in providing any interests for future interactions between the candidate and the employer.

Try to make sure that you are successful in getting a positive response form the interviewer. Try to extend support from the employer and add phrases like “I would like to know more about the job” or “I would like to meet up and discuss about the job in person” and so on. Try to give subtle hints to the employer that you are ready to do the job and have a genuine interest towards the job. This gives the employer a sense of assurance while hiring you as the new employee.

How to Write a Cover Letter That Gets You the Job?

While writing a cover letter also make sure that it should not strictly look like a love letter. Do not try to make it awkward to the sender, if they do not know who you are. Try to be as subtle as possible while writing such cover letters. The trick to writing an ideal and a successful cover letter is by finding the perfect balance. Do not give the impression that you are stalking the employer. There are several guidelines that should be followed when writing the perfect cover letter.

1. Try to use the interviewer’s correct name and designation when starting the cover letter. Try to find out the relevant information about the employer. Also make sure that the name of the organisation and the job title is spelled correctly.

2. When writing the perfect cover letter, do not try to make the cover letter haphazard and hard to read, as this would waste the time of the employer. Try to follow a certain standard when preparing the cover letter.

3. Try to include keywords that best describe the qualities of the employee that the employer is looking for. Keywords should be eye catching and attention grabbing for the employer. This should make the employer more interested about you and this increases the chances of your selection.

4. Make sure that the cover letter is not too crowded. Try to contain the whole letter within 3 to 4 paragraphs. This is for easy reading by the employer.

5. Try to be as brief as possible about various aspects. The employer might be an individual who do not have much time to carefully read all the cover letters sent to him. So for an effective reading, make it short and simple.

6. Try to be formal in language while writing a cover letter. Also use phrases like “yours sincerely” and “yours faithfully” depending on the content of your cover letter. How you end the cover letter should also depend on how you start the cover letter, especially when using salutations or by addressing by their first names.

7. Do not try to introduce anything new and unwanted in your cover letter that was not included in the resume or CV.

8. As mentioned before, the cover letter is a brief summary of the candidate’s resume or CV, so try to ensure that there are no repeating or common words that are present both in the CV and in the cover letter.

9. Try to include your goals and aspirations that aligns with the aim and target of the company. This shows how much you are compatible with the work culture of the company.

10. Try to keep the cover letter as unique and interesting as possible. Authenticity plays a key factor while selecting employees. Employees who think outside the box are sought after within the company.

It is necessary that the cover letter should be treated as a love letter and that the candidate should show that why he/she is the ideal match for the company. Also, stress the fact that you are an invaluable candidate who has the necessary skills and talent to keep the company forward and also increase the output of the company. By explaining all these factors through your cover letter, you are thereby increasing the chances of your selection and you will be seen as a valuable individual for the company.

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How to avoid the repetition of "I" while writing a cover letter for an academic job?

I use active voice for cover letter and while doing that I end up with too many "I" and most of the sentences in my letter also begin with "I". This makes my letter quite boring. I would appreciate if you share your suggestion/tips to avoid this while writing a cover letter.

Since cover letter is the first thing that the potential employer notices, I want to write a concise and attractive cover letter. It will be also helpful if you share a link of a well-written cover letter.

• application-cover-letter

• 2 This could be a good question for English language & usage as well. –  Peter Jansson Commented Oct 3, 2013 at 9:22
• @Peter, thanks for the useful suggestion. Is there any way to link my question to that forum? –  rana Commented Oct 3, 2013 at 9:26
• It is up to the moderators if the question should be migrated. I think it is a good question and keen to see the answers. –  Peter Jansson Commented Oct 3, 2013 at 9:28
• 4 @CharlesMorisset to be more accurate, cross-posting is forbidden if you post the exact same question on both sites. But you can post two slightly different questions, one here focussing on the academic issues (”should I avoid it? if so, how to?”), and a more generic one on English. You won't get the same type of answers on both sites! –  F'x Commented Oct 3, 2013 at 10:08
• 1 @F'x: Very good point. I was mostly mentioning it for the benefit of rana, who seems to be quite a new user, in order to avoid the question to cross-posted as such on ELU. But a different question would be of course just fine! –  user102 Commented Oct 3, 2013 at 10:11

2 Answers 2

Because it's a cover letter, I think it's quite natural that you say a lot about you in it. That's actually not to be avoided, because you want to give the addressee a good idea of your background, your motivations, your interests, etc. In short, you want to show them who you are, so they want to work with you. This is a totally different exercise than usual academic writing.

Now, regarding the redundancy of I , it is a matter of writing style. It probably wouldn't bother me much, but if you want to diminish it for some reasons, here are worthy alternatives:

Instead of starting your sentence with I , just push it somewhere down in some sentences. That way, you avoid the pattern of I as the first word of every sentence.

Looking at your group's wide range of research, I must confess a certain attraction for your recent groundbreaking work on the correlation between beer-drinking and publication rate .

Use constructions that, while retaining the first person, shift from the subject pronoun to other cases:

It has been my intention for a few years now to shift my research interests from pure psychology to experimental psychohistory, and I have thus taken in 2009 a post-doc position at the University of Trentor (group of prof. Seldon)

instead of “I decided a few years ago to move to the field of psychohistory…” . Similarly, you could say

The standard techniques of academic writing… introduce the pronoun once, then shift the discuss to avoid being the actor, e.g. using passive voice.

During my thesis, I introduced a new data reduction technique called XXZ. This algorithm, when applied to large datasets, was used to univocally establish whether data was being manipulated. In particular, results obtained on the 2000 election showed systematic bias against a specific candidate, highlighting its power as a diagnostic tool for real-life applications.

Be aware that there are downsides, though: most of these alternatives are longer than a direct sentence starting with I , which means overusing them could make you sound windy.

• thanks for the detailed discussion. I like to avoid passive voice and the introductory phases at the beginning of each sentence as these somehow dilute the importance/purpose of the sentence. So I prefer to use active voice and end up with many "I"! I think I should use a proper balance of active/passive voice and don't overuse any of these! Again, do you have example/link that might be useful? –  rana Commented Oct 3, 2013 at 10:18
• 3 While the link doesn't work for me, +1 for the link to the Grim study. –  StrongBad Commented Oct 3, 2013 at 14:08
• @DanielE.Shub link fixed (DOI changed since the ASAP version I had on my hard drive) –  F'x Commented Oct 3, 2013 at 14:36
• 2 Speak like Yoda, you can. –  Rolf Commented Jul 31, 2019 at 18:55

One possibility is to use "my" now and then: instead of "I am experienced in ...", write "My fields of experience include ...". Another possibility is to use references to previous sentences: instead of writing "I developed the method of ... . I applied it to the problem of ... ." write "I developed ... . Its application to ... resulted in ... .". Also, instead of writing "I'm interested in the position because ...", write "This position will allow me to ... and benefit my ...". The idea is always the same: look at all other words in the sentence and think of whether one of them can be made the subject without changing the meaning or diluting the "importance" of the sentence. If it can, do it. If not, resort to passive voice and other techniques suggested in this thread. If it is still not satisfactory for some reason, just use "I" and go to the next sentence.

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A Love Letter to Cover Letters: Advice From a Professional Career Educator

As a Career Educator at Aquinas College , I meet many students in one-on-one appointments who share a deep fear and resentment of the dreaded cover letter. “I’ve never written one,” they say, “and I don’t know where to start. 

“No worries!” I joyfully explain. “Think of it as… a love letter !” Given that February is the month of hearts and chocolate and, of course, Saint Valentine, I thought it only appropriate to share these tips with all of you. Just think of me as a Career Cupid!

A rose by any other name…

You would never address a love letter with “To Whom It May Concern,” right? And while Beethoven’s letter to his “Immortal Beloved” lends itself to a certain romantic mystique, it is recommended for a cover letter that you use the person’s actual name. Similarly, if you can find the name of the hiring manager or human resources director, use that instead of a generic greeting. And please, err on the side of using ‘Ms.’ rather than ‘Mrs.’—and never ‘Miss.’ It should also be noted that true love letters, or cover letters, are never texted. This is the time for that high-end stationary your well-meaning aunt bought you for Christmas. 

Form letters make crummy love letters. 

I’m pretty sure your intended would be turned off if you started a love letter with, “I am writing to you today because I am very interested in becoming romantically involved with someone like you. I believe I have the qualities you are looking for in a soulmate .” 

Wait, someone like me? Or definitely just me? Did you copy this letter and send it out to fifty other people? A cover letter is the same, friends! Trust me, I have been on the receiving end of a form cover letter. The impersonal tone made me shudder, and into the ‘no’ pile it went. Warm up your letter and include specific details : the actual position, department, and correct company name that you’re applying for are the minimum. 

I’m pretty great, actually. 

In a love letter, we talk about why we are a good catch, of course, but we also want to mirror what that person is looking for in a mate. If we know they want to move back to their hometown after college, we would never go on and on about our global travels and desires to relocate across the country someday. (Also, you may want to consider that long-distance relationships are not easy!) In our cover letter version, use the job description as your writing prompt . Is clear communication first on the list of requirements? Concisely tell that story about how you had created a set of emails, devised a social media campaign, and spoke at several meetings about the student body’s desire to change an outdated policy on campus. 

But you, you are the sun!

Okay, enough about you! In a love letter, wouldn’t you talk about the other person also? What sweet, wonderful things you have noticed about them? Why you can’t stand to be apart? Yes!

In a cover letter, you want to impress upon the reader that you have done your research. You have taken the bare-minimum step of researching their values and mission on the internet, and you also mention how you share these values and would support this mission! This hearkens back to my point about the form letters; if you truly take your time with a cover letter, there would be no mistaking that it was meant for the recipient, and the recipient alone. Make the reader feel special, that there is no other internship or full-time job you desire.

Yours truly and most sincerely. 

Love letters, in some cases, might have a request or proposal. At the very least, they would include some sort of “next step” and convey a level of excitement to see the recipient again and very soon. Be sure your cover letter similarly has a “call to action,” and convey enthusiasm regarding scheduling a phone or Zoom interview. Be sure to include your contact information, and for the love of all that is good and holy, change your voicemail and check it regularly. How dreadful for your future employer to be swooning over you and your expertly worded letter only to find that your voicemail box isn’t set up or accepting messages! 

Happy St. Valentine’s Day and best of luck in writing your cover letters… and love letters, if you are so inspired. Just be sure not to get any chocolate on that professional stationary! 

Brigid Avery is a Career Educator at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. A psychology and studio art alumna of Aquinas College herself, she also holds a master’s degree in leadership from the University of San Diego. Aquinas lended her many professional growing opportunities as a student, acting as a student tour guide, participating in the highly regarded Chicago Semester, and interning with the Admissions Office. Since her work with a California-based non-profit portfolio of charter schools, Brigid went back to Michigan to work as the Alumni Director and, eventually, a Career Educator within the AQ Advantage Center.

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What can I use instead of I would love to?

I'm writing a cover letter expressing my interest in redesiging a company's website. I want to say something like "I would love to have this opportunity to work on your website" but I think it kinda makes me look desperate in a way. "I would like to" sounds indifferent.

The Ending of Bridgerton Season Three, Explained

What’s next for Lady Whistledown? Do Colin and Penelope make up? And who in the world is Michaela Stirling?

Warning: Major spoilers for Bridgerton season three lie ahead.

The last episode takes place a day after Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington’s wedding . Instead of post-nuptial bliss, tension fills the newlyweds’ home as the two contend with the Lady Whistledown–size elephant in the room. Elsewhere in the Bridgerton family, Francesca is ready to embark on her own life as a newlywed after marrying John Stirling —but an unforeseen complication is thrown her way. As for single Bridgertons Eloise and Benedict, we can expect both siblings to begin new journeys down paths of self-discovery.

Ahead, gentle reader, we’ve rounded up all the answers to your most burning questions about the season three finale.

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How do colin and penelope reconcile and what happens to lady whistledown.

Colin’s discovery that Penelope is Lady Whistledown in episode six spells trouble for their romance. He decides to commit to marrying Penelope, though, despite feeling betrayed and Pen offering him a way out of their engagement. But although the two share a tender moment dancing together during their wedding breakfast, Colin reverts back to being cold and guarded by the next day.

Still, there’s nothing like a crisis to bring a couple together. Cressida Cowper uncovers Whistledown’s true identity and then insists Pen pay her, threatening to reveal the truth to the entire ton otherwise. Faced with this blackmail scheme, Colin goes into emergency mode. First, he beseeches Cressida to show mercy—though that quickly backfires when she instead doubles the amount she’s asking for. Later, Colin tells Penelope that he intends to ask Benedict to lend him the money to pay off Cressida. Penelope refuses this gesture. She does not want Colin to rescue her, she tells him, but simply desires his love. To this, he replies, “As long as you live with this secret, there will always be something between us.” Pen responds, “I know. Perhaps that is the key.”

Penelope writes a letter to Queen Charlotte, unmasking herself once and for all. She also uses all the money she made selling Lady Whistledown columns to fund her sisters’ spectacular vision for a joint ball. It is at this ball that Penelope comes into the light at last, revealing her alter ego before an audience that includes the queen, the Bridgertons, the Featheringtons, and the rest of the ton. The queen allows Penelope to state her case.

“I wrote about all of you because I was captivated by you, living your lives so out in the open,” Penelope says. “And in writing about all of you, I suddenly felt as if I had a life. I had power. And for anyone in this room who has ever had a taste of that, they should know it can be intoxicating.” She admits to being “careless with that power” and vows to courageously “live a life out in the open” and to “honor one’s weaknesses publicly.” Graciously, the queen grants Pen permission to continue writing as Lady Whistledown “more responsibly.”

Afterward, Colin reconciles Penelope’s voice with Lady Whistledown’s. “In truth, I have been envious of you—of your success, of your bravery,” he tells his new wife. “And now I simply cannot believe that a woman with such bravery loves me. How lucky I am to stand by your side and soak up even a little bit of your light.” Swoon!

Fast-forward a year later, and the two—along with Penelope’s sisters—are reveling in their happily ever after and welcoming their first child. Although Prudence and Philippa presumably had their daughters first, Penelope’s child is the only son—making him the Featherington heir.

What’s the deal with Francesca and Michaela?

Penelope and Colin aren’t the only newlyweds in season three. In the finale, Francesca Bridgerton ties the knot with John Stirling, a union that will take her out of Mayfair and to the Kilmartin family seat in the Scottish Highlands.

Joining them on their journey to Scotland is John’s cousin, Michaela Stirling. Upon meeting her, Francesca looks awestricken and momentarily forgets her own name—a callback to a conversation she had with Violet, who said, “When I first met your father, I could barely speak my own name. I was so taken by him. I stumbled over words most familiar.”

For those who haven’t read the original Julia Quinn novels, the introduction of Michaela’s character is our first look into what to expect from Francesca’s season . In the sixth Bridgerton book, When He Was Wicked , Francesca originally falls in love with John’s cousin Michael after John dies unexpectedly, two years into their marriage. It seems the creative team behind the Netflix series has decided to take a gender-bent approach to Francesca’s story.

It’s currently uncertain how the change in gender will affect Francesca’s storyline. Showrunner Jess Brownell told Netflix’s Tudum , “Part of Francesca’s exploration going forward will be about whether or not there is in fact something missing [in her marriage] … You’ll just have to wait to see, going forward, what we do with the addition of Michaela.”

Where are Kate and Anthony?

Sorry, Kanthony shippers, but it seems we’ll be bidding farewell to our season-two leads for quite some time.

Kate and Anthony actually didn’t appear in episode eight of the third season. At Colin and Penelope’s wedding in the previous episode, the couple decided to temporarily relocate to India, where they plan to welcome their first child. But don’t lose hope for Kanthony cameos in future seasons, as Anthony promises Kate in episode seven: “We will return.”

What’s next for Benedict and Eloise?

The remaining single Bridgerton siblings (besides Hyacinth and Gregory, who are children and, respectfully, should stay unmarried for quite some time) are heading on their own journeys of self-discovery by the end of season season.

After spending the entirety of the season engaging in an affair with the widowed Lady Tilley, Benedict embraces the fluidity of sexuality by having a threesome with her and her friend Paul. The throuple situation works out great for everyone—until it doesn’t. It turns out Tilley is ready to take her relationship with Benedict to the next level, while Benedict only wants to further expand his previously limited conceptions of love and lust. As he tells Tilley, “You’ve opened my world, and I’m not ready to close it again just now.” Ultimately, the two end things on relatively amicable terms.

As for Eloise, she finally mends her friendship with her best friend and now sister-in-law, Penelope. Still, she finds herself restless. “I’ve spent nearly all of my life in either Mayfair or at Aubrey Hall,” she laments during a late-night vent session with Benedict. “If I’m going to attempt to make change in the world, certainly I shall need to see some of it first.” Her solution? Joining newlyweds Francesca and John at their estate in Scotland, where she expects to live “outside our tiny bubble” and “have some adventures.” Cheers to new frontiers!

As an associate editor at HarpersBAZAAR.com, Chelsey keeps a finger on the pulse on all things celeb news. She also writes on social movements, connecting with activists leading the fight on workers' rights, climate justice, and more. Offline, she’s probably spending too much time on TikTok, rewatching Emma (the 2020 version, of course), or buying yet another corset. 

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