What Is a Letter of Intent? Tips on How to Write a Great One (With Examples!)

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You scan a job posting and everything looks standard (responsibilities and requirements, check; lots of jargon related to your field, check), until you come across the following: Please submit a resume and letter of intent .

That’s a phrase you’ve never seen before: “letter of intent.” Is it like a cover letter ? Well, yes and no. There are plenty of similarities between the two, and also several differences.

While cover letters showcase both your interest in a company and your qualifications for a specific job, letters of intent primarily focus on the employer and why you want to work for them. Here’s everything you need to know about it, including tips for writing your letter and practical examples.

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What is a letter of intent?

A letter of intent, also known as letter of interest , is typically meant to state your intentions to work for a particular company. In it, you should elaborate on the reasons you're interested in working for that organization, and highlight some of your skills and experiences that may be valuable for them.

“I’ve seen an intent letter used usually when there’s not a specific job that a candidate is interested in applying for,” says Kaila Kea , a career coach at The Muse. So you’d probably write one if you’re submitting a general application to an organization you’re a major fan of that isn’t necessarily hiring for your dream job just yet.

A letter of intent can also come in handy when you do have a job opportunity in mind, but the company itself isn't quite sure about what they're looking for. They might have multiple open roles at the moment or simply be receptive to hearing where you think you'd be a better fit.

If you Google this term, you may come across some articles and videos about a letter of intent (LOI), which is a document used to legally formalize business transactions. Don't mix up a LOI with a letter of intent for a job—they are two entirely different things.

How does a letter of intent differ from a cover letter?

It can be easy to confuse these two, but the purpose of a letter of intent is slightly different.

“Intent letters tend to be more company focused—you’re talking a little more about the employer than the specific job,” Kea says. They’re also more general in terms of how you talk about your skill set. “On the flip side, the cover letter can be more job-focused, a little more position-oriented, because there’s a specific job that’s posted that you want to speak to,” she adds.

As a result, each type of letter requires a different approach. For example, says Kea, with a cover letter you might say, “ I’m highly interested in a product manager role at [Company] for the following reasons, ” while with a letter of intent you’re more likely to say something along the lines of, “ I’m highly interested in a managerial role at [Company] for the following reasons. ”

Going broader “gives you more wiggle room with what roles the employer may align you with,” says Kea. Rather than pigeonhole yourself, you allow the hiring manager to slot you into the best-fit scenario.

Letters of intent can also present themselves in situations outside the application process—for example, if you want to follow up after a job fair or a networking event. “There may not be a specific role listed that you’re interested in or that you can apply for at that time,” Kea says, but emailing a letter of intent is a great way to express interest in working for their organization one day.

Why do companies ask for letters of intent?

Companies ask for letters of intent mainly when they’re as torn about what they’re looking for as you might be. “In some cases, employers might have several jobs posted at once for one department or for one specific project,” Kea says. They may ask for a letter of intent because they’re not entirely sure what kind of person they need to fill the gaps in those departments.

Maybe they’ll end up hiring two senior-level managers, or they may be just as satisfied with one mid-level exec and one entry-level employee—depending on which people wow them in the application process.

Letters of intent are also frequently used to hire for contractors or freelancers who aren’t standard W2 employees, because if, for example, a contract falls through, companies can easily line up the next qualified candidate for the job. Put simply, a hiring manager most likely wants to widen their candidate pool, so they’re looking for anyone and everyone who shows an eagerness and passion for the company.

The type of letter can also vary across sectors. “In my experience, the more established organizations and private companies typically go with a cover letter,” says Kea, while letters of intent might present themselves at startups or nonprofits that are more mission-focused and growing at a greater rate.

“From a candidate perspective, if you’re asked to submit a letter of intent, that may mean that the company is newer, and that they’re trying to source talent in a different way,” she says.

What is in a letter of intent?

In terms of content, a letter of intent is quite personal—after all, you're expressing your interest in working for a company simply because of who they are, what they do, and/or what they stand for. However, when it comes to the letter of intent format, it basically resembles any professional email you've ever written. Here's how to structure it:

  • Greeting or salutation: Since it's a professional communication, you can go with “ Hello, [hiring manager name] ”, “ Dear, Mr./Ms. [hiring manager name] ”, or anything similar. Avoid casual greetings, such as “ Hey ” or “ Hi ”.
  • Introduction: Give some background information about yourself—including your name and your current degree or job title—and explain why you're contacting them. If you want to add a creative touch, you can start by sharing the story of how you first became aware of the company.
  • Body: In the first paragraph following the introduction, discuss your interest in the company and what makes you want to work there. Then, include another paragraph to briefly highlight your skills, experience, and accomplishments.
  • Call to action (optional): You can include a call to action in your closing paragraph. For example, thanking the hiring manager for their time and inviting them to reach out for further information or to discuss future job openings.
  • Closing line: Go with one standard sign-off, such as “ Best regards ” or “ Sincerely ”. Similar to the salutation, you must keep it professional, avoiding casual language.

How to write a letter of intent: 5 tips

Here are five tips for writing a letter of intent that clearly demonstrates your interest in working for a company—and potentially can open some doors for you. For those who struggle with talking about themselves, it can be easier than writing a cover letter because, for most part, you're focusing on the potential employer.

1. Gather information about the company

First and foremost, if you haven't already, do your due diligence. You want to learn everything you can about the organization. Access their website and search for their mission, values, long-term goals, and initiatives. Check their social media to see how they communicate with their clients, customers, or the general public. This essential information will make your letter less generic and can serve as reasons why you're interested in working for them.

You should also do your best to find the hiring manager or recruite's name—LinkedIn is great for this—so you can address them directly. If you can't find it anywhere, start your letter with “ Dear Hiring Manager ”, for example. It's not ideal, but definitely better than “ To whom it may concern. ” (Seriously, here are 7 ways to address your letter that aren't “To whom it may concern.” )

2. Explain your interest in the company

A letter of intent is about the employer, so you want to express plenty of interest in the company itself. “A lot of people get really wrapped up in saying, ‘ I’m the perfect person for this job, I want this job, I’m great for this job, hire me for this job ,’” Kea says. “And there’s nothing wrong with that, but one of the things that makes an intent letter so successful is really showing that you identify with the company’s mission, their values, their goals.”

Letters of intent can also be more current. For example, rather than talk broadly about the company, you may mention something about them in the news or a recent update to their product.

You want to include “anything that would grab the attention of the employer and also show that you’re keeping up with what’s happening with that organization or in your industry,” she says. And, as with a great opening line to a cover letter , “it helps to capture their interest and encourage them to keep reading; that’s of course the goal.”

3. Share relevant information about yourself

If you’re struggling to come up with something specific about the company to discuss, then talk about something that’s engaging about yourself, says Kea. What makes you stand out? What unique skills, experiences, or passions do you bring to the table? And how do these align with what the company needs, given what you know about them?

Overall, you want to make it general enough that you’re showing interest in the company as a whole, “but also specific enough so that the employer walks away with at least one key takeaway from you and your skill set and what you can bring to this organization,” she says.

Let’s go back to the product manager versus managerial role example above. If you were to write a cover letter , says Kea, you’d probably try to speak to a particular product manager position.

So you would focus your letter on why you’d be good at that job—the experiences you have working on a product’s lifecycle, managing vendor relationships, and collaborating across teams, to name a few examples. You’d also want to make sure you’re addressing specific points in the job description.

But if you were writing a letter of intent, you’d instead want to focus on how you’d be great for a managerial role—whether it’s as a product manager or something else entirely. In this case, rather than mention your product manager experience, you might talk about how you led a team, managed expectations, or coordinated logistics for meetings.

You’re referencing specific skills, sure—and your resume is highlighting both sets of skills—but you’re tailoring your letter to what the hiring manager may be looking for.

4. Keep your letter concise

Hiring managers receive dozens, if not thousands, of emails daily. If you want them to read yours through to the end, you should keep it concise. Four to five paragraphs are more than enough space to introduce yourself, highlight what about that company interests you, and how your career goals and specific skills align with their mission or values.

5. Write a clear and direct subject line

Crafting a good subject line can sometimes be the most difficult part of sending an email. After all, it's the first thing the receiver will see, and it can determine if they're going to open it or not. Since you don't want your letter of intent to be confused with a spam email, write a clear and direct subject line. Something simple, such as “ Introduction — [Your Name] ”, works perfectly fine.

Examples of letters of intent

Now that you've learned the theory, let's see some letter of intent examples to make the tips less abstract.

Sample letter of intent: If you're a senior-level candidate

Let’s say you’re an experienced designer and product manager looking to join a startup in some capacity. You do some digging to figure out who to address your letter to , and discover that the head of the product department is named Caroline Coffman.

You might send her the following:

Dear Caroline Coffman,

When I was 10, my brother fainted while waiting to ride a rollercoaster at Six Flags. It was an incredibly hot day, and we’d been in line for an hour.

I don’t remember anything else about that day—what other rides we took, what we ate, even who exactly we were with—but I distinctly remember the feeling of wanting to know why. Why did this happen? Why did we have to wait in such long lines? Why hasn’t anyone come up with a solution to the problem of overcrowded amusement parks?

It’s for this reason that I’m thrilled to apply to work on the product and design team at Rydes. Not only does your mission of revolutionizing and adding efficiency to theme parks spark my curiosity and eagerness to fix things, it also reminds me of the bigger picture: that you should leave an amusement park, or any family outing for that matter, with fonder memories than your sibling passing out. Your latest product update featured in Forbes around waiting times on lines especially spoke to me and further encouraged me to write this letter.

A little bit about me: I majored in design and applied arts because I wanted to be self-sufficient in how I solved problems, and because I enjoyed working with my hands as well as my mind. I took on a role as associate UX designer at a small startup because I was fascinated with making websites that were seamless and free of obstacles.

Then, I shifted to a product manager position at a larger company because I realized how much I liked collaborating across departments and working with various experts to brainstorm ideas and solutions. To me, the most rewarding part of my day is helping my team members be productive, feel motivated, and achieve their goals. With this experience and skill set, I’m ready to leap back into the startup world and work for a company whose ambitions align with my own.

I want to thank you for considering me to join this fantastic team of innovators and creatives, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Jack Williams

Sample letter of intent: If you're an entry-level candidate

Let's say you've recently graduated from school with a major in mass communications. Now, you're eager to join an established communications company that operates many different ventures, such as television, physical and digital magazines and newspapers, and a streaming service. Here's a letter of intent example for this specific situation:

Dear Megan Smith,

My name is Clara Johnson. I'm a graduate in mass communication from NYC University, and I'm writing to express my interest in working at XY.

As a child, I used to wake up for the XYTV kids' segment at 10 am. As a teenager, my interest shifted to your afternoon roundtables about lifestyle, fashion, and celebrities. Now, as an adult and recent mass communications graduate, I admire your journalists on XYTV News at 9 pm and the amazing editorial work on your website.

XY has been a part of my life since early childhood and inspired me to study mass communication. I admire XY's past, which was the blueprint for what many communications companies in the country do today, and your ability to reinvent, capturing the attention of all generations. As a creative person, I identify with your passion for exploring new ventures and your mission to keep revolutionizing journalism and entertainment.

I majored in mass communication because I loved the idea of creating something that would reach and impact people's lives, whether it was a piece, a commercial, or a short film. During my time at NYC University, I took advantage of all the practical classes to develop writing and editing skills, filmmaking, and content creation.

I was also one of the hosts of the course's podcast as part of a project for the radio and TV class. Besides presenting the podcast, I was responsible for searching relevant topics to explore, people to interview, and scriptwriting. Through this project, I developed strong communication skills, a sense of urgency, critical thinking, and teamwork. With this set of skills, I believe I am ready for my first work experience and would love the opportunity to work at XY.

Thank you for taking the time to read this email and consider me to be a part of the XY team. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Clara Johnson

Letter of intent template

Not quite there yet? Here's a template to help you master the structure and guide you through writing your own letter:

Dear [Hiring manager name],

[Introduction: Introduce yourself or your relationship with the company]

[Paragraph 1: Talk about your interest in the company and why]

[Paragraph 2: Discuss what you admire in the company's history or values]

[Paragraph 3: Talk about yourself, your qualifications, skills, and experiences]

[Paragraph 4: Explain how your skills and experiences relate with the company]

[Paragraph 5: Thank them for their time and/or make a call to action]

[Your name]

Letter of intent FAQs

How serious is a letter of intent.

A letter of intent is all about you approaching a potential employer to express your interest in working for them. Thus, it is a professional communication. If you decide to write one, take it seriously—research the company, keep a professional tone, and double-check for grammar and spelling mistakes. Overall, strive to make a positive first impression.

How do you start a letter of intent?

You can start a letter of intent in two different ways: 1) Introduce yourself, stating your job title or degree, and explain why you are reaching out. 2) Begin by narrating how you met the company, perhaps sharing a memorable experience, and then introduce yourself.

Now that you have all the information you need to understand exactly what is—and how to write—a letter of intent, you can confidently consider this new form of applying the next time you set your eyes on your dream company.

Amanda Cardoso contributed to the latest version of this article.

letters of intent job cover letter

The Future World of Work

How To Write A Letter Of Intent: Samples and Extra Tips

Christina J Colclough

By Christina Colclough

Last updated: April 25, 2024

A letter of intent (sometimes called a letter of interest) expresses your desire to work for a company or organization, even when no open positions are advertised at the time.

The Complete Guide to Write A Letter Of Intent

Since LOI is not as common as cover letter templates, beginners have sent my team many questions regarding its format and content structure. Having experienced both sending and receiving LOIs myself, I have gathered some helpful statement of intent examples to share here. 

In this article:

Differences between a letter of intent and a cover letter.

A cover letter is specifically written to address a job opening . It highlights your skills and experience to convince the employer you’re the perfect fit for the open position.

On the other hand, an LOI has a broader purpose: applicants use it to express their interest in the company itself, even if there isn’t an open position. It shows your enthusiasm and interest in being part of the team.

Cover letters focus on your qualifications , as you mention specific achievements, skills, and career goals that match the job description or fit into the company’s long-term vision. 

At first glance, an LOI might look similar to a cover letter; however, your interest in the company, in general , remains the focus. It showcases your extensive knowledge of the company’s work and values and how you could contribute to its future success. 

Let me simplify it for you:

  • A cover letter addresses the employer’s needs, explaining how you’ll solve their problems and fulfill the specific requirements of the advertised position.
  • An LOI shows how you can benefit the company as a whole, not just a specific department. You should detail how your current knowledge/experience aligns with the company’s goals and future direction.

Typically, a cover letter wouldn’t be sent without an open position. Applicants only write them in response to a specific job advertisement, unlike LOIs, which can be sent anytime . 

There’s no need to wait for a job opening to write an LOI, which is why many consider it a proactive way to land potential opportunities at a company they have always followed or admired. 

Sample Letter Of Intent For Position

Letter Of Intent

The sample below is an excellent letter of intent for two main reasons:

  • A strong introduction. John clearly expresses his admiration for NovelFront’s work ethic and specific book genres (showing that he’s researched the company) and positions himself as an “ardent bibliophile” and “dedicated writer” to instantly connect with the company’s core values.
  • Focused value proposition . The letter mentions John’s Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and editorial experience, directly relevant to NovelFront’s publishing needs. He also highlights his achievements and their quantifiable impacts (discovering best-selling authors for varied genres).

Letter of Intent Sample:

John Doe 123 Main Street Anytown, USA [email protected] (555) 123-4567

Ms. Emily Thompson Senior Editor NovelFront Publishing 456 Bookworm Avenue Metropolis, USA

April 18, 2024

Dear Ms. Rodriguez,

Dear Ms. Thompson,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in employment opportunities at NovelFront Publishing. As an ardent bibliophile and dedicated writer, I have long admired NovelFront’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling. Your publication of groundbreaking contemporary works, particularly in the Fantasy and Historical Fiction genres, has truly challenged conventions and inspired readers worldwide.

With a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and over five years of experience in editorial roles within the publishing industry, I have honed a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the editorial process. At Inkwell Publishing, I worked as a Senior Editor, leading a team that acquired and developed manuscripts across Romance, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, and Poetry, all of which are also NovelFront’s major literary genres. I am particularly proud of my role in discovering and nurturing emerging authors, several of whom have gone on to become bestselling authors in their respective fields.

My experience also includes extensive manuscript evaluation and project management; I know how to provide constructive feedback to authors to help them refine their manuscripts while preserving their unique voices. I have a proven track record of delivering high-quality publications on tight deadlines, collaborating closely with authors, agents, and cross-functional teams to ensure successful book launches.

I am confident that my professional experience and passion for literature align closely with NovelFront’s long-term goals. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss in more detail how my skills and experiences can be a valuable asset to your future missions. 

Warm regards,

How To Draft A Letter Of Intent

Step 1. salutation or greetings.

The salutation acts as the first handshake that sets the tone for your communication with the company. It’s your chance to make a positive impression, so do not waste it. The typical structure for a formal salutation is:

  • Dear + Title (Mr./Ms./Mx.) + Last Name (e.g., Dear Ms. Jones)

If you can’t pinpoint the recipient, consider “Dear [Department Name] Hiring Manager” to demonstrate effort while keeping it professional. Even as a last resort, do not use impersonal approaches like “To Whom It May Concern.” 

How about casual, informal greetings like “Hi” or “Hello”? They might be acceptable if the company has a more casual environment (you can check their website for clues). But from my observation, it’s always safer to err on the side of formality in your initial contact.

Step 2. Introduction

Start by showing your genuine enthusiasm for the company. 

Mention something specific about them that resonates with you, such as their mission statement, a recent project it completed, or their overall achievements in the industry. Experienced hiring managers like me would be even more impressed if you could frame your background right from the start regarding how it benefits the company. 

On the other hand, you should aim for only 2-3 sentences – enough to grab attention without being overwhelming. Most importantly, ensure your introduction is free of typos and grammatical errors. First impressions matter, after all, and an unpolished opening discourages us from reading the rest.

Step 3. Body

Here, you build your case and convince the reader that you would be a valuable asset to their company. Research the company’s needs and goals beforehand, then identify your valuable skills that specifically address those needs.

Remember, numbers speak volumes; whenever possible, use quantifiable results to demonstrate the impact of your work. Examples: increased sales figures, improved efficiency metrics, or the number of successful projects you’ve led, etc.

Likewise, do not just claim you’re a great communicator or have excellent analysis skills. Always illustrate them with examples from previous work experiences so readers can visualize your capabilities and how you will contribute to their work environment.

If you have multiple key points to highlight (which is very likely), structure your body paragraph into subsections. I suggest transition words like “Additionally,” “Furthermore,” or “In line with” to create a smooth flow between your points and help readers connect your ideas.

Step 4. CTA (Call To Action)

You’re reaching the end of the letter, and it’s time to encourage the reader to take the next step. Briefly restate your value proposition and interest in contributing to the company’s success, then express your willingness to discuss your qualifications further. You can mention your availability for an interview or suggest other ways to connect (e.g., an informational interview).

Also, ensure your contact information (phone number and email address) is clearly listed at the end of your letter so the company can reach out as soon as possible if they’re interested.

Step 5. Closing

Sign your name above your typed name; you can include a typed signature or forgo it if submitted electronically. If you want to include a professional title, place it below the signature line.

Here’s an example closing: 

Sincerely,/Best regards,

[Your Signature]

[Your Typed Name]

[Your Professional Title (Optional)]

Avoid overly casual closings like “Thanks” or “Best.”

Common Mistakes In Letter Of Intent Examples

Mistake #1. no focus and research.

Many applicants I know write generic letters to send to several companies at a time. This impersonal approach shows a clear lack of effort on your part and makes your qualifications even less relevant; they will not understand why their company needs to hire you and not someone else. 

Solution: There’s no shortcut here. Research is the only way; you must take time to understand the company’s specific mission, values, and ongoing challenges that set it apart from other companies. 

Mistake #2. Excessive Length

Employers are busy. A long, rambling letter that fails to get to the point quickly will not get examined entirely; the readers just skim over what you wrote and end up missing most of your key qualifications. 

Solution : Your letter of intent should be concise (ideally 3-4 paragraphs), focus on the most relevant information, and leave no room for unnecessary details. All your strongest skills and qualifications must be presented at the very top instead of being scattered in the last few sentences. 

Mistake #3. Not Following Submission Guidelines

Some companies prefer receiving letters of intent via email, an online application portal, or even physical mail. 

There are likely specific formatting requirements (regarding font size, margins, document type, etc.) and they might even request additional materials along with your letter of intent. For example, I often ask applicants to send me their portfolio or writing samples if they want to work in my in-house content creation team. 

Needless to say, a letter not submitted in the preferred format (or arriving at the wrong location) takes longer to reach the hiring manager. Worse, it shows your obvious lack of attentiveness – a quality of strong candidates that employers value. 

Solution: Before submitting your letter of intent, carefully read any application instructions provided by the company, which could be on their careers page, job posting, or a separate email. 

If the guidelines seem unclear, contact the company’s HR department or the hiring manager for clarification.

You might also like: How Long Should A Cover Letter Be? 7 Powerful Ways To Close A Cover Letter How To Start A Cover Letter Greeting? Who To Address Cover Letter To To Whom It May Concern Alternatives

Hopefully, my letter of intent example helps you grasp what to include to highlight your professional skills and experience. Keep it focused and brief with measurable achievements, and feel free to reach out if you need further assistance with your job search.

Christina J. Colclough

Dr Christina J. Colclough is an expert on The Future World of Work and the politics of digital technology advocating globally for the importance of the workers’ voice. She has extensive regional and global labour movement experience, is a sought-after keynote speaker, coach, and strategist advising progressive governments and worker organisations.

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What is a Letter of Intent? How to Write One for a Job [+ Examples]

Stephanie Trovato

Published: March 14, 2024

Standard job applications have a standard set of practices. You turn in a resume and cover letter, and then, if selected, you move through a few rounds of interviews and get the job.

person at their computer writing a letter of intent

However, not all potential job opportunities start with an application. In fact, many begin with initiative from a job seeker.

Free Kit: Everything You Need for Your Job Search

Those job seekers will send in a letter of intent rather than a  cover letter . In this article, we’ll take a look at what a letter of intent is and highlight some strategies for writing the best LOI you can. We’ve even included a template to help you get started. 

Here’s what you’ll find:

What is a letter of intent?

Letter of intent vs. cover letter, letter of intent vs. letter of interest, when to use a letter of intent.

How to Write a Letter of Intent for a Job

Letter of Intent Samples

Letter of intent template.

A letter of intent is a less common way of expressing interest in a company. It targets reasons you’re looking for opportunities with a specific organization.

A letter of intent does include elements of a traditional cover letter, such as relevant experience and skills, but it’s used in slightly different contexts. LOIs emphasize alignment between a job seeker and an organization.

letter of intent example for Publishing Now

There are a few key differences between a  cover letter  and a letter of intent, including:

Context. While a cover letter responds to a specific job listing, a letter of intent targets an organization more generally. It may or may not have a specific job opening at the time that the LOI is sent in.

Focus. A cover letter explains why an applicant is a  good fit for a specific role . An LOI, on the other hand, addresses an individual’s compatibility with an overall organization or more general role.

Initiative. A cover letter is a reactive document responding to a job opening. A letter of intent, however, demonstrates more initiative and provides information before an organization specifically requests it.

letters of intent job cover letter

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Letter of intent and  letter of interest  are often used interchangeably. While there are a lot of similarities between the two documents, there are also a few key differences:

Level of intent. Letters of intent have a high level of intentionality, while letters of interest are more exploratory. A letter of intent proposes action, while letters of interest are for information gathering.

Commitment level. A letter of intent is a high-commitment way of expressing interest in a company, while a letter of interest is a lower commitment. An individual is more likely to send out multiple letters of interest. 

Action orientation. A letter of intent always ends with a call to action, while a letter of interest is more laid-back and may not request anything specific from the recipient.

While both letters demonstrate initiative and are closely tailored to the company, they do serve slightly different purposes.

There are lots of scenarios where a job seeker may want to send out a letter of intent. Here are a few examples: 

You have a high level of interest in a specific company, but there’s not an open role.

You are interested in networking with a company in a committed way.

You want to reach out with a formal follow-up after a networking event.

You’re applying to a highly competitive field.

You’re aware of a potential job opportunity with an organization that hasn’t been published yet.

Additionally, students or job seekers switching industries may use letters of intent to apply to educational opportunities like internships and apprenticeships — though those may also be called  cover letters . 

when to use a letter of intent

How to Write a Letter of Intent

There are plenty of ways to approach writing a letter of intent for a job. Here’s a step-by-step process for writing your LOI draft:

1. Provide your contact information.  

At the top of your LOI, you’ll want to provide contact information so your recipient can contact you about future opportunities. This can include your phone number, email, and address.

2. Use an appropriate greeting.

For some opportunities, a formal greeting is appropriate. In other situations, a more informal approach may be ideal. If possible, address the specific recipient. 

3. Provide an introduction.  

In the intro paragraphs, you’ll want to tap into three specifics:

Who you are.

Why you’re reaching out.

How you got this company’s information.

Feel free to vary the order of this information. Your LOI intro may be formal or more playful, depending on who you are and the organization you’re submitting to.

4. Dive into your strengths and company alignment.  

An LOI is created to clearly convey why you’re a good fit for the organization. In the body paragraphs of your letter, you’ll want to explain:

  • Your strengths.
  • What you do.
  • How those things would fit with the organization.

5. Guide the conversation into the future.  

All LOIs end with a call to action, which is one of the things that differentiates it from a letter of interest or a cover letter. Map out potential next steps so it’s easy for the reader to take action. It could include:

A request to schedule a meeting.

Making a specific pitch.

Encouraging the recipient to send a follow-up email.

6. Write a thoughtful conclusion .

Conclude your LOI by reiterating your interest in the company. Make sure to thank the recipient for their time, too — there wasn’t a job opening request, so they took time out of their day to read your letter.

If you’re sending your LOI because of an internal referral, be sure to reference them within the letter. 

how to write a letter of intent

Let’s go through a few different samples of LOIs and highlight what each does well. Refer to these samples as you draft your own letter of intent for guidance on incorporating the elements of an LOI seamlessly.

Internal Connection

Dear Mr. Waterhouse, My name is Jennifer Orlando, and I am an accomplished sommelier with a decade of experience. I recently enjoyed a glass at your wine bar, and I would love to chat with you more if you’re hiring soon. My colleague, Jackson Marymount, has worked at Italiano Wine Bar for several years and highly recommends working with your organization. I have a wine service background and a Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 certification. I’m passionate about Italian wines — Nebbiolos are my favorite! Jackson says you’re a fan, as well. My passion for Italian wines, combined with my experience, make me a great candidate for Italiano Wine Bar if you’re ever in need of an extra hand. I appreciate you taking the time to read my letter today, and if you’d like to chat further, please email me, and we can schedule a time to sit down together. Thank you again for your time. Warm regards, Jennifer

In this letter of intent, Jennifer leverages an internal connection. This is a great way to earn a few extra points when explaining how you know about the business. Beyond that, Jennifer’s experiences align well with the work that the wine bar does.

What I like:  This letter of intent does a great job of personalization, weaving through the internal connection perfectly in a few different spots. A referral is a powerful aid to incorporate into an LOI, and Jennifer did a great job dropping hints of her connection.

Making a Pitch

Dear Elise, My name is Mark Morgan, and I’m a freelance graphic designer with a passion for bold marketing materials. I found your marketing company while on LinkedIn the other day, and I would love to collaborate with you in the future. As I read up on your company, I discovered a lot of similarities between my work and your organization. I, too, advocate for bright and forward advertising, and creating smart and attractive ads is my specialty. While I noticed you don’t have any posted project needs at this time, I was browsing your offerings and saw an opportunity to bolster your products. Your “Full-Stack Ad Copywriting” package covers strategy and copy, but it doesn’t offer graphic design. I’d love to bring my skills to the table to supplement your product. If you’d like to chat further, please shoot me an email, and we’ll set up a time to discuss potential collaboration. Thanks so much for taking the time to read my letter. Take care, Mark

What I like:  In this letter, Mark is making a pitch. He still covers the bases of a great LOI — discussing his strengths and alignment with the brand. But instead of just calling for a meeting, he makes a pitch that is specific to the organization. This provides value to the recipient and makes Mark look like a strong collaborator. 

Mark could benefit from HubSpot’s CMS Hub to manage his pitches. Lead generation and content creation are important parts of freelancing, and Mark needs to stay organized in order to do it well. Learn more about  HubSpot’s CMS Hub here .

Diving Into Alignment

Dear Michael, My name is Jordan, and I’m a non-profit manager. I’m reaching out today because I discovered your organization through one of my colleagues. I’d love to see if you’re in need of any managerial services. My values are in close alignment with the values of Trees 4 Life Canada. I’m dedicated to service and passionately believe saving the trees is one of the best ways we can save the world. I studied agriculture in college and have since dedicated my professional life to collaboration with tree nonprofits. If you’re seeking a manager in the near future, I’d love to be considered for the role. With my experience and alignment with your values, I’d surely be a great fit. Please feel free to send me an email at jordanlovestrees@example.com. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Jordan

Letters of intent are standard documents, so you don’t need to worry about reinventing the wheel each time you send one. Use this template as a resource to ensure your letter includes all the important parts.

[Your name]

[Your contact information]

[Recipient’s Name]

[Recipient’s contact information]

Dear  [Recipient or To Whom It May Concern] ,

My name is  [Your Name] ,  [title/relevant information about yourself] , and I heard about your organization through  [how you know the organization] . I’m reaching out to connect. I would love to chat if your team plans on expanding.

I have skills in  [skills]  that I believe would be a great fit for your organization. Your values of  [company values]  are in close alignment with my strengths, and I believe I could make a great contribution.

I believe that my  [abilities/skills/interests]  would benefit your company, and I’d love to talk more about any potential opportunities that arise with  [name of organization] . If interested, please reach out by  [phone/email]  to schedule a time to meet with me.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter, and I hope to talk with you further in the future.

Of course, you’ll want to edit the template for tone and specifics related to yourself and the organization you’re contacting. 

Finding Success With a Great Letter of Intent

Sending a letter of intent can be vulnerable, but it’s a great way to make new connections and set yourself up for employment success.

Refer to these strategies, samples, and templates to make sure your LOI is going to be the most effective letter possible. Emphasize your alignment with the organization, and you’re sure to see success!

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  • Finding a Job

How to Write a Letter of Intent for a Job (With Examples)

letters of intent job cover letter

  • Why Write a Letter of Intent?

What to Include in a Letter of Intent

Tips for writing a letter of intent, sample letter of intent for a job, letter of intent example, email letter of intent sample.

Image by Marina Li © The Balance 2019 

If you’re job searching, you may have spotted a few online job postings that ask for a letter of intent—but what does that mean? In this context, a letter of intent is similar to a cover letter . It includes information on why you are qualified for the position.

You should write a letter of intent when an employer requests one in a job listing. Send this letter in addition to your resume and other required application materials.

One difference between a letter of intent and a cover letter is that you can also write a letter of intent when you want to express interest in working for a company that does not have any specific jobs listed. You can use this letter to explain why you would be a good fit for the organization should an appropriate role open up. In this situation, a letter of intent is similar to an inquiry letter , also called a letter of interest .

When writing a letter of intent without a specific job opening in mind, explain what type of work you are interested in. For example, maybe you are looking for a managerial position or a position in a certain department. Keep in mind that staying flexible can be beneficial. By not being overly specific, you may open yourself up to opportunities that you may not have otherwise considered.

Whether you are submitting a letter of intent for a specific job or are simply expressing your interest in working for a company, make sure your letter is well-written, professional, and shows why you are a good fit for the company.

Why Write a Letter of Intent?

Letters of intent are used as a means of introduction to personalize your application and provide the hiring manager with your resume . They make it easy for the recruiter or employer to see exactly what your qualifications are and what you can bring to the table that other applicants cannot.

A well-written letter will help your application get noticed and provide the employer with details on why you're a strong candidate and should be considered. A good letter can help you land an interview .

Salutation Begin with a professional salutation . Find out the name of the employer or hiring manager, and include it in your opening. If you do not know to whom you should address the letter, call the office and ask.

Body Paragraph 1: Introduction Begin your letter by introducing yourself and explaining why you are reaching out. If you are responding to a specific job listing, say so. Otherwise, simply explain that you are interested in working for the company and explain the type of work you are interested in.

Body Paragraph 2: Highlight Relevant Skills This is where you connect your skills and abilities to the job listing . Take the time to carefully review the job description and the requirements listed in it. Mention one or two important requirements of the job, and explain how you meet those requirements. Provide specific examples from your past work experiences.

If you are "cold contacting" the employer , explain how your skills would make you a good fit for the company. The closer you can match your credentials to the job requirements or the company’s needs, the better your chance of getting chosen for a job interview.

You might break this section into two paragraphs, depending on the number of skills you mention.

Body Paragraph 3: Call to Action Conclude your letter with a brief paragraph on how you will follow up. If the job listing says not to follow up, simply state that you look forward to hearing from the employer.

Closing End with a professional closing such as “Best” or “Sincerely.” If you are submitting a printed letter, include a handwritten signature followed by your typed name. If you are emailing the letter, conclude with your email signature.

Use the appropriate format. Use business letter format for your letter. Begin with your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information.

When sending an email, include a clear subject line. If you decide to send your letter in the body of an email, be sure to include a concise subject line that explains why you are emailing . If you are applying to a specific job, include your name and the job title. If you are reaching out cold, include your name and a phrase like “Job Inquiry” or “Marketing Expert Looking to Share Expertise.”

If you decide to send the letter via email, you also do not need to include any contact information or the date at the top. Instead, include your contact information in the email signature.

Research the company. Before writing, be sure to research the company to get a sense of the company’s culture , mission, and needs. You need to explain how you would add value to the company, and you can only do this if you know what the company is looking for.

Don’t rehash your resume. Don't simply repeat what is on your resume. Instead, pick out your strongest qualifications and highlight them. Your goal is to showcase your best credentials to the employer so they will be persuaded to read your resume, not to provide a full career history.

Consider using bullet points. A good strategy for formatting your letter of intent is to include a bulleted section that highlights your qualifications for the job. The bullets will help to make your qualifications “pop” on the page, immediately drawing attention to the skills and expertise you offer. A careful use of boldface can also help to catch the hiring manager’s eye.

Keep it short. Your letter should be no longer than a page. If you write a longer letter, the hiring manager will not likely read it.

Proofread your letter. Don’t forget to thoroughly proofread your letter for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors. Consider asking a friend or family member to read it over before you submit it. Your letter needs to be professional and polished.

This is a sample letter of intent for applying to a job. Download the letter of intent template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).

Olive Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 olive.applicant@email.com

September 1, 2023

James Lee Head Librarian Acme University 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee:

I am writing to express my strong interest in the position of library aide at Acme University, as listed on Monster.com. I am a recent college graduate with extensive library experience and a record of excellent written and oral communication. I believe I would be an ideal fit for this position at your organization. 

I am skilled at communicating effectively with different people across various platforms. In my position as an administrative assistant at Longmont Library, I greeted dozens of patrons each day on the phone and in person. I also answered patron queries via email and social media. I received recognition from the circulation department head for my friendly demeanor, patience, and ability to communicate professionally with all patrons.

I am passionate about staying up to date with the latest library best practices. I have two years of experience working with some of the most widely used library management software, including Ex Libris and Koha. I am also familiar with the latest OCLC input standards. 

I believe my experience, communication skills, and interpersonal abilities would make me a strong fit for this position. I look forward to speaking with you more about my qualifications.

Olive Applicant

Cold Call Email Example

Subject: Introduction Briana Applicant

Dear Mr. Lee,

Throughout my 15 years of experience in sales and sales management, I have always been impressed with your company’s reputation for exemplary customer service and your excellent sales record. I believe my experience and sales knowledge would make me an asset to Acme Sales.

Qualifications and skills I bring to the table include:

  • 10 years of progressive experience  in retail sales management, consistently triggering year-over-year sales increases by  more than 15%  for each year of tenure.
  • Proven  leadership and team-building talents , successfully training and guiding teams of 20+ sales representatives to new levels of sales achievement.      
  • Keen analytical and strategic planning skills  leveraged to control inventory/costs, reduce churn, and maximize sales productivity. 

I would love to speak with you about how I can contribute to the sales team at XYZ Company. I will call you next week to arrange a time to discuss my qualifications further. I look forward to speaking with you.

Briana Applicant

Write a letter of intent to express your interest in a company: Some employers will ask for a letter in job postings. In other cases, you may send a letter of intent to a company with no current job openings.

Don’t rehash your resume: Your letter should be a sales pitch. It should complement your resume and generate interest in you as a candidate.

Be professional: Use business letter format and be sure to proofread your letter before you send it. 

UC Davis. " Write an Effective Cover Letter/Letter of Intent ."

Letter of Intent

Job Letter of Intent: How to Write (with Example and Template)

The job letter of intent is a general letter, no more than one page long, summarizing the applicant’s key skills and work experience that directly relate to the position you are applying to.

It is similar to a cover letter and should cover the following topics:

  • Employment history
  • Credentials

Only include those attributes that directly relate to the job. Keep it to one page. Your resume can fill in the remaining details, such as additional skills and experience.

Types of Job Letters of Intent

There are a variety of job letters of intent, each aimed at a particular situation or job type. Your letter should be customized to the type of job applied for or situation. They include:

  • Continue working
  • Planning to hire
  • Nursing position
  • Plan to promote
  • Retire from a position or company
  • Teaching including teacher’s aide
  • Transfer to another job or department
  • Leave on Maternity
  • Resign from a position
  • Request for vacation time off

What is a Job Letter of Intent?

The job letter of intent is usually attached to a resume if you are applying for a job, however, it may stand alone if it is being used to advise that you will be on vacation or are planning to resign.

The letter introduces the candidate and provides a clear message why you are well suited for a position with the company. Include work experience and education that are relevant to the position, but do not rehash your resume. Review how you will help the company reach its goals using your experience and training.

Tailor the letter of intent to each position applied for and keep it to one page in length. This is your chance to introduce yourself and nab an interview.

How to Write a Job Letter of Intent?

The job letter of intent should always be customized to the position applied for. Keep it to one page, introduce yourself and highlight your skills, knowledge, and training. Focus on matching your skills etc. to the stated needs of the company for this position.

Each letter must be professional and free of grammatical and spelling errors. Many HR managers will immediately toss a candidate when they notice grammar or spelling errors. They often have many candidates, and this is one way of weeding out the candidates.

A cover letter and a letter of intent are similar; however, a cover letter is often used to apply for a specific position. A letter of intent is used to demonstrate an interest in working for a company in several potential positions.

What to Include in a Job Letter of Intent?

The job letter of intent should include the following:

  • Address information for yourself and the contact in the company
  • The introduction paragraph
  • Skills summary and match to the company
  • Call to action

Address information:

Include your full name and address with phone number and the person’s name, address, and phone number the letter is being sent to.

Introduction:

Introduce yourself, why you are writing to the company, the position applied for, or your interest in working for the company if there is no specific position.

Skills Summary:

Identify key skills, experience, and education and how they match the needs of the company and the job or position you are applying for.

Call to Action:

State your follow-up plan, if the position canvas indicates no follow-up is requested, indicate you look forward to hearing from the company.

Tips and Things to Avoid

  • Always use a business letter format
  • If sending your letter by email, include a concise subject clearing showing why you are sending the email
  • When sending by email, include your contact details in the email signature
  • Do some research – learn as much as you can about the culture, mission, and staffing needs
  • Explain how you will add value to the department and company
  • Highlight your strongest credentials and skills related to the company’s needs
  • Do not repeat your resume in the Job Letter of Intent
  • Make it short, 3 or 4 short paragraphs
  • Always proofread your job letter of intent

Format – for a Job Letter of Intent

Your name, address, and phone number

Name of the person the letter is addressed to, address, phone number

Body – Paragraph 1 – Introduction

Body – Paragraph 2 – Describe Skills, Abilities & Credentials

Body – Paragraph 3 – Next Steps and/or Call to Action

Your Signature

More Details to Include – Job Letter of Intent

Your name, address, and phone number: This information goes in your contact information area if you are sending an email.

Date: make this the current date. Some people will post-date the letter to account for delays in mailing. There is no need to include the date when sending the letter by email.

Name of the person the letter is addressed to, address, phone number: address the letter to the person posted on the job posting. If there is no name, call the company to obtain the full name, address, and phone number.

Salutation: Keep it professional, Dear XXXX, use the appropriate salutation, e.g. Mr., Mrs., Ms.

Body – Paragraph 1 – Introduction: Introduce yourself and cover why you are sending the letter. Mention the job posting, serial number, or other identifier and title.

If there is not a specific job posting, mention your interest in finding a position with the company.

Body – Paragraph 2 – Describe Skills, Abilities & Credentials: Match your job skills and credentials to the requirements outlined in the posting. Provide examples, focus on your strengths to increase your chance of receiving a call for an interview.

Body – Paragraph 3 – Next Steps and/or Call to Action: Indicate your plan to follow up with the person the letter is being sent to. If the job posting requests that follow-ups are not accepted, indicate that you look forward to hearing from the company.

Closing: Use professional business terms such as sincerely or best.

Signature: sign the letter, include your resume and any other information requested and send these materials to the company. If sending by email, use your email signature.

Sample Job Letter of Intent

Current Date

Name of the person the letter is addressed to,

Full corporate address, phone number, and email

Dear Mr., Mrs. Miss Name of Person,

I am contacting you to express my interest in working in (name of job) at (name of Company). I studied at (Name Trade School, College or University) and graduated in (year) with a degree (Name of degree or specialization). I believe I would be an excellent addition to your company and this position.

My experience and skills, (name two or three) meet your stated requirements in the job posting. In my previous position as (name previous employer – job position), I (describe how you used your skills to complete the job function) (Include one major challenge and how it was successfully overcome). I received recognition from (co-workers, supervisors, clients) regarding the achievements and milestones met in this position (These should relate to the requirements of the position you are applying to).

I am focused on maintaining best practices and learning new skills. I have (XX) years of experience working with (Name processes, applications, and software that relate to this position), including (provide examples). I am also familiar with the latest (add as applicable – standards, systems, laws, regulatory or government requirements) relative to this position.

I believe my training, experience, and knowledge, along with communication, and interpersonal abilities would make me a great fit for your company and this position. I look forward to speaking with you more about how my qualifications can make a substantial contribution to meeting your company’s goals.

Job Letter of Intent (Word Template)

Job Letter of Intent (Word Template)

The purpose of the job letter of intent is to make an introduction to the company, summarize your skills, education, and experience and show how they will assist the company in meeting their goals. Always customize the letter to the company and the job or position applied for. Keep it to one page in length and only include those skills relevant to the position or company you are applying to.

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How to write a letter of intent for a job [+ 2 samples]

How to write a letter of intent for a job [+ 2 samples]

Madison Norton

Throughout your job search, you may have noticed that some job postings ask for a letter of intent with your application. Exactly what this means, and how it is different from a cover letter, may not be clear. In this article we will discuss letters of intent, their uses, and how they are different from cover letters.

Recommended links:

  • Our collection of 500+ professional resume examples .
  • Our gallery of 20+ downloadable resume templates .
  • What is a letter of intent?

A letter of intent is a brief document, usually paired with a resume, that states your intention to work for a particular company. It should summarize your relevant skills and express why you are a good fit for that organization. Letters of intent are highly tailored to the company they are addressed to, and can be sent when requested by a job posting or independently.

Browse our gallery of resume examples here.

create a resume

  • What is the difference between a letter of intent and a cover letter?

Whereas cover letters are specific to an open position and tailored to suit the needs of that role, letters of intent tend to focus on the larger company. Instead of detailing why you are the best person for a job based on a job posting, a letter of intent will show your interest in the company as a whole by showing your respect for the company’s values, the relevant skills you have to contribute, and your ideas for how you could fit right in if hired. Even if the company does not have a position open right now, this enthusiasm is a great way to get your name in the running for the next one.

Suggested - Cover letter examples

  • Why write a letter of intent?

Letters of intent are most often used by job-seekers when they are requested by a job posting. Cover letters are more common, but if a job posting specifically asks for a letter of intent you should be ready to write one.

You can also send a letter of intent when it hasn’t been requested to show your enthusiasm for a company. When you have a specific organization that you would like to work for but they aren’t hiring, a letter of intent is a great way to make yourself known. The hiring manager may not have a position open for you now, but with a good letter of intent that shows your personality and qualifications you will be at the top of their mind when they do.

Browse our gallery of resume templates here.

  • Why do companies ask for letters of intent?

Letters of intent are most commonly asked for by small or new companies who do not have clearly defined roles like larger companies. Where a large company would likely be hiring for an established position with specific requirements, positions at newer companies are often flexible, with employees wearing many hats. A letter of intent allows you as the job seeker to express what experience you bring to the company and how you can create value in your own unique way. When the responsibilities of a role are not yet clearly defined, allowing applicants to define their niche is a great way for companies to get new ideas for what they need.

import a resume example

  • What should I include in my letter of intent?

The contents of a letter of intent are flexible, as the specific skills or anecdotes you choose to highlight will depend on your experience and industry. However, you should still make sure that your letter contains everything you need to impress an employer. When you write your letter of intent, it can be useful to use a standard format to make sure it is readable and professional.

  • Greeting. Begin your letter of intent with a polite salutation. If possible, find the name of the hiring manager or department head that you would like to reach so that you can address your letter to them directly. This information is likely available on the company’s website, or you can browse the company’s employee’s profiles on LinkedIn.
  • Introduction. Open the body of your letter with a sentence or brief paragraph that introduces you, including your name and skillset, and what your intention is for the letter. This can be as simple as saying “My name is Sam Rogers. I am a recent graduate of NYU’s business program and I am writing to express my interest in your company,” though including more details, such as how you discovered the company, will better show your personality.
  • Mirroring the language that the company uses will let them know that you share similar values. If you are writing in response to a job listing, you can use the key words found there to choose the skills you highlight. If you are sending the letter unrequested, use what you know about the company and your industry to choose the skills you emphasize.
  • Be very clear about what level of experience you can bring and what type of responsibility you are looking for. If you are an experienced manager, you don’t want to write a great letter of intent only to be considered for an entry level role.
  • Show that you are the right fit for the company, and show that you have the right attitude to make a difference. Explain what draws you to the company, why your skills are a match, and how you can contribute to company culture.
  • Call to action. Before signing off, it is important to give the employer an easy way to follow up with you. This can be as simple as saying that you look forward to their response and leaving your number, or you can say that you will be following up yourself at a later date. Either way, if you want to hear from that employer again you must make sure they know that you would like to hear from them and how they can contact you.
  • Closing. “Sincerely,” “Best,” “Cheers,’—use whichever sign-off best suits your personality, so long as it is professional and appropriate. Leave them with your name, email, phone number, and any online portfolios that may help, such as LinkedIn.

example-letter-of-intent

  • Tips for writing a letter of intent
  • Research the company. Before writing your letter, make sure you know your audience. Browse the company’s website and social media, and see if they have been featured in any news items. You will be much more able to describe your interest in the company if you really do know them well.
  • Format your letter well. Use a readable, professional font, and keep paragraphs short and readable. No employer likes reading a huge block of text. VisualCV’s cover letter builder works great for both cover letters and letters of intent.
  • Be brief. Your letter should not be longer than a page. Even if you are a great candidate, employers are unlikely to read much more than a page, if that.
  • Proofread. Typos and spelling errors will leave a terrible first impression. No matter how perfect you are for the company, employers will find it difficult to look past spelling mistakes. It is important to read and reread your letter to check for errors, and if you are not a confident writer, you may even want to have a friend look it over for mistakes.
  • Letter of Intent Sample #1

Dear Susan Williams,

My name is Rob Stanfield. I am a front-end developer and user experience specialist with 8 years of experience and I am writing to express my interest in working for the product team at TrueTeach. As the child of two teachers I understand the importance of education and I believe that educators deserve the best possible platform for delivering content online, and I think that TrueTeach can be that platform.

I am currently the UX team lead at the social media management start-up Dashbored, where I work with the product team to develop an efficient, customer-focused platform. Our user base has grown 300% in the time that I have been a part of this team, and as proud as I am of this business and the Dashbored community, I have always known that my career journey would lead me to education eventually. As an undergraduate, I volunteered at a local elementary school teaching introductory coding, and my master’s thesis focused on accessible content delivery for distance learning.

I am familiar with the tech stack used at TrueTeach and I believe strongly in the TrueTeach mission. My experience in product development and my passion for education make me an ideal fit for your team.

I would love to schedule some time to discuss my qualifications and the future of TrueTeach with you. I can be reached at [email protected] , or by phone at 555-5555. Thank you for your time.

Best, Rob Stanfield

  • Letter of Intent Sample #2

Hello Caroline,

My name is Stephanie Ross and I am a marketing director with over 10 years experience in the startup, tech and SaaS space. I've spent the majority of my career building brands and exceptional customer experiences and I'd love to express my interest in discussing opportunities to join the marketing team at Hubspot.

From the outside looking in at the growth at Hubspot over the last several years, the company has looked after your customers above everything else - this is a mission-driven organization and brand that aligns perfectly with my beliefs on marketing and customer experiences. From early on in my career, I've always approached marketing strategy from an empathetic position to make sure that the experience we've created at the companies I've worked for puts the customer's needs first and really getting to the root of what problems they need help solving.

I pride myself on being a critical and open-minded thinker and with extreme attention to detail. My approach to building marketing strategies always starts with speaking with and learning from the customers directly, as well as building tight-knit relationships with other teams across the organization. I believe it's critical to connect with and learn from sales, engineering, support and others to understand what their internal challenges are to find synergies that marketing may be able to help solve.

I'd love to chat further with you and answer any questions you may have, and discuss opportunities on your team. I'm available by phone at 555-555-5555 or by email at [email protected] . Thank you very much for your consideration and look forward to speaking soon.

Sincerely, Stephanie Ross

Letter of Intent Sample

  • How do you Start a Letter of Intent?

Here’s how you can start a letter of intent for a job in the right way:

  • Select the right layout for the letter.
  • Start the letter of intent with a professional salutation.
  • Then, start with an introductory paragraph
  • How do you Introduce yourself in a letter of intent?

When writing a letter of intent for a job, start writing your letter by informing the reader who you are and why you want to apply for this job. A good example is “My name is Jane. I am a quality assurance lead at FrontEnd Co. with over 11 years of experience…”

  • How do you Write a Simple Letter of Intent?

To write a simple letter of intent you should:

  • Write the letter in a very easy to understand language.
  • Avoid using hyperboles in your writing.
  • Make sure to add a date, address of the recipient and your address
  • Ensure that you add a salutation followed by an introduction.
  • Briefly talk about your skills and have a final call to action.
  • Add a closing to your simple letter of intent
  • What is an example of a letter of Intent?

Dear hiring manager,

My name is Jane. I am a quality assurance lead at FrontEnd Co. with over 11 years of experience. I am writing this letter to express my interest in working for the digital experience team. I am extremely passionate about end user experiences and developing a world class proactive QA program at ThingsPort would be a dream come true.

In my current role as a quality assurance lead, I manage a team of 10 quality assurance professionals who support digital transformation across 10 business units at FrontEnd Co. I worked with technical, business and design teams to establish QA processes to oversee agile deployment of business transformation projects. Writing QA documentation from scratch and improving line of communication with the dev team are some of the most rewarding aspects of my work here.

Processes followed at ThingsPort and the technology used is well within my expertise. And my experience of managing QA for 10 business transformation projects makes me an ideal fit for the QA team at FrontEnd Co.

I would love to schedule a call to discuss my goals and past relevant experience in depth with you. I can be reached at [email protected] or at 555-555-5555. Thank you for your time.

Sincerely, Jane

Madison Norton

Madison Norton

VP Marketing & Resume Expert

Madison is the VP Marketing and General Manager at VisualCV . He's a seasoned marketing leader, resume writing and career marketing expert and now helping people grow their own career marketing strategies to build a career they love.

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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

young-woman-checking-her-cover-lette

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

excited-woman-in-her-office-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

  • Pronouns (optional)
  • Location (optional)
  • Email address
  • Phone number (optional)
  • Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

man-using-his-laptop-while-smiling-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

  • They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
  • They value collaboration and input from every team member
  • They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

man-reading-carefully-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

  • Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
  • Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
  • Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
  • Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
  • Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
  • Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
  • Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
  • Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
  • Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
  • Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
  • Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
  • Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
  • Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
  • Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
  • Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

woman-writing-on-her-notebook-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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Sample Letter of Intent for a Job: Free & Effective

In this guide, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to craft a compelling letter of intent that highlights your unique qualifications and enthusiasm for the job.

Key Takeaways

Key PointsDetails
Explain why you’re writing and what position you’re interested in.
Briefly introduce yourself and your interest in the company.
Highlight your qualifications, experiences, and skills.
Summarize your intent and express enthusiasm for an interview.
Provide a structured format to follow.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Letter of Intent

1. understand the purpose.

The letter of intent is not just a cover letter. It’s a document that expresses your interest in working for a company, even if there isn’t a specific job opening. It’s your chance to introduce yourself and explain why you would be a valuable addition to the team.

2. Start with a Strong Opening

Begin your letter with a strong introduction. Mention how you came across the company and why you are interested in it. For example:

“Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], I am writing to express my interest in joining [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. I have been following your company’s growth and am impressed by your innovative approach and commitment to excellence.”

3. Introduce Yourself

Briefly introduce yourself, highlighting your current role, relevant experience, and key skills. This section should be concise yet impactful. For example:

Trending Now: Find Out Why!

“My name is [Your Name], and I am currently a [Your Current Job Title] at [Your Current Company]. With over [X] years of experience in [Your Industry], I have developed a strong skill set in [Key Skills].”

4. Highlight Your Qualifications

This is the core of your letter. Highlight your relevant experience, skills, and achievements. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your background aligns with the company’s needs. For example:

“In my previous role at [Previous Company], I successfully [describe a key achievement]. This experience has equipped me with the ability to [relevant skill or qualification]. I am confident that my background in [relevant field] and my passion for [specific industry or role] would make me a valuable asset to your team.”

Qualifications and Skills:

QualificationExperience
Strong communication skillsLed a team of 10 in a high-pressure project environment.
Project management expertiseManaged multiple projects with budgets exceeding $1 million.
Industry-specific knowledgeOver 5 years in [specific industry], specializing in [area].

5. Demonstrate Enthusiasm and Cultural Fit

Companies want to hire people who are enthusiastic about their mission and who will fit well with their culture. Show that you’ve done your homework on the company and that you align with their values. For example:

“I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of your commitment to [specific company value or mission]. I believe that my background in [relevant field] and my passion for [related interest] align perfectly with your team’s goals.”

6. Close with a Call to Action

End your letter by reiterating your interest in the company and expressing your desire for an interview. Be polite and professional. For example:

“I would love the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the continued success of [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.”

Closing Checklist:

  • Reiterate your interest
  • Express desire for an interview
  • Thank the reader

7. Use a Professional Template

A well-structured template can ensure your letter is organized and professional. Here’s a simple template you can use:

Letter of Intent Template

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Your Email] [Your Phone Number] [Date]

[Recipient’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in joining [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. My name is [Your Name], and I am currently a [Your Current Job Title] at [Your Current Company]. With over [X] years of experience in [Your Industry], I have developed a strong skill set in [Key Skills].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I successfully [describe a key achievement]. This experience has equipped me with the ability to [relevant skill or qualification]. I am confident that my background in [relevant field] and my passion for [specific industry or role] would make me a valuable asset to your team.

I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of your commitment to [specific company value or mission]. I believe that my background in [relevant field] and my passion for [related interest] align perfectly with your team’s goals.

I would love the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the continued success of [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.

[Your Name]

Real-Life Example

Here’s a real-life example from my own experience. When I applied for a role at a leading tech company, I tailored my letter of intent to emphasize my experience in software development and my passion for innovation. This personalized approach helped me secure an interview and ultimately land the job.

Popular Questions about “Letter of Intent for a Job”

Q: what should i include in a letter of intent for a job .

Answer: In my letters of intent, I always include an introduction, a brief summary of my qualifications, specific examples of my relevant experience, and a conclusion expressing my enthusiasm for the company. This structure has consistently helped me make a strong impression.

Q: How long should a letter of intent be? 

Answer: From my experience, a letter of intent should be no longer than one page. Conciseness is key, so I aim for about 3-4 paragraphs that clearly communicate my interest and qualifications without overwhelming the reader.

Q: How do I address a letter of intent if I don’t know the hiring manager’s name? 

Answer: When I don’t know the hiring manager’s name, I address the letter to the department or simply use “Dear Hiring Manager.” However, I always try to research and find the correct name as it adds a personal touch.

Q: What’s the difference between a letter of intent and a cover letter? 

Answer: A cover letter is specific to a job posting, while a letter of intent expresses interest in working at the company in a broader sense. I’ve found that letters of intent are great for networking and uncovering unadvertised opportunities.

Q: Can I use the same letter of intent for multiple job applications? 

Answer: While it’s tempting, I customize each letter of intent to match the specific company and position. Tailoring my letters has significantly increased my response rate because it shows genuine interest and effort.

Q: Should I include my resume with my letter of intent? 

Answer: Yes, I always attach my resume to provide a comprehensive view of my background. The letter of intent serves as an introduction, while the resume offers detailed insights into my qualifications.

Q: How do I highlight my skills in a letter of intent? 

Answer: I focus on my most relevant skills and provide concrete examples of how I’ve applied them. This approach has helped me demonstrate my capabilities effectively and make a stronger case for my suitability.

Q: Can a letter of intent help me switch careers? 

Answer: Absolutely. I’ve used letters of intent to explain my career shift motivations and highlight transferable skills. This strategy has helped potential employers understand my passion and potential in a new field.

Q: How do I convey enthusiasm without sounding desperate? 

Answer: I balance my enthusiasm with professionalism by expressing genuine interest and confidence in my abilities. Sharing specific reasons why I’m excited about the company and role has worked well for me.

Q: What common mistakes should I avoid in a letter of intent? 

Answer: From my experience, avoiding generic language, spelling errors, and overly complex sentences is crucial. Personalizing the letter and proofreading thoroughly have helped me maintain a polished and professional tone.

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Cover Letter Templates

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Looking to create a cover letter that will help you stand out from the crowd? Try one of our 16 professional cover letter templates, each created to match our resume and CV templates. Pick a cover letter template that suits your needs and impress the hiring manager with a flawless job application!

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Learn More About Cover Letters

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How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Examples

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Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

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60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

Free Cover Letter Sample to Copy and Use

Subject Line: Cover Letter for [Position], [Candidate Name]

[Company Address]

[Company City, State]

[Hiring Manager Email]

Introduction:

Introduce yourself, give a brief professional summary, and optionally, a top achievement. E.g. “My name is [Name] and I’m a [Role] with over X years of experience in [Activity]. Over the past years, I’ve helped X companies achieve [Goals]”

Express your interest in joining their firm. E.g. “I’m looking to join [Company] as [Role] and I’m very excited to help you with [Activity]”

Optionally, if you were referred or you just know someone at the firm, you can mention this here. E.g. “I learned about [Company] from a friend that’s currently working there as [Role], [Friend’s name]. I really like everything I’ve heard about the company and I think I would make a good fit.”

This is where you talk about your work experience and achievements at length. Mention how you excelled at your previous roles, what your most important responsibilities were, and so on.

Look at this as an opportunity to expand on whatever you wrote in your resume, and give the reader a better picture of what kind of tasks you worked on, what you accomplished, and so on. E.g “At my previous jobs as [Role], my duties were [Major 3 duties], and I specifically excelled at [Top accomplishment]. This accomplishment helped the company [Results driven].”

Want to really impress the hiring manager? You can mention what you know about the company and its culture here. E.g. “I’ve read a lot about [Company] and I really think I’d enjoy your democratic leadership style.”

Optionally, you can include a bulleted list of your top 3 accomplishments. For example:

[Example Box]

Some of my top achievements in recent years include:

Launching a successful online ads marketing campaign, driving 100+ leads within 2 months.

Overhauled a client’s advertising account, improving conversion rates and driving 15% higher revenue.

Improved the agency’s framework for ad account audits and created new standard operating procedures.

Conclusion & Call to Action:

Re-affirm your desire to join the company, as well as how you can contribute. E.g. “I’d love to become a part of [Company] as a [Role]. I believe that my skills in [Field] can help the company with [Goals].”

Thank the hiring manager for reading the cover letter and then wrap it all up with a call to action. E.g. “Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing back from you and learning more about the position. Sincerely, [Name].”

Match Your Resume & Cover Letter

Want your application to stand out?

Match your cover letter with your resume & catch the recruiter’s attention!

Matching Cover Letter

Why Novorésumé?

Matching Cover Letters

To keep your job application consistent and professional, our Cover Letter templates perfectly match the resume templates.

Creative & Standard Templates

Whether you apply for a conservative industry like banking or a hype start-up, you can tailor our cover letter templates to fit your exact needs.

Expert Reviews

Oana Vintila

Career Counselor

Cover Letters are usually synonymous with formal and bland rambling that you write down hoping for an invite to a job interview. I just love it how Novorésumé has enhanced that and is offering you a tool to build proper arguments and structured discourse about who YOU ARE and what YOU CAN DO.

A real confidence booster, I tell you, seeing your motivation eloquently written!

Gabriela Tardea

Career Strategist, Coach & Trainer

The best thing about this platform when creating a Cover Letter as an addition to your resume is that the documents will match each other's design and font, creating eye-catching documents that recruiters/hiring managers will love.

You will be initially judged based on your papers, so why not make a first great impression?

Cover Letters Resources

What is a cover letter.

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit alongside your resume or CV for your job application.

The main purpose of your cover letter is to:

Show your motivation for working at the company

Bring special attention to the most important parts of your work history

Explain how your work experience fits whatever the company is looking for

What your cover letter is NOT about , is rehashing whatever you already mentioned in your resume. Sure, you should mention the most important bits, but it should NOT be a literal copy-paste.

Keep in mind that recruiters will usually read your cover letter after scanning your resume and deciding if you’re qualified for the position.

Our cover letter templates match both our resume templates and our CV templates ! Make sure to check them out, too.

Why Use a Cover Letter Template?

A cover letter can complement your resume and increase your chances of getting hired.

But that's only if it's done right.

If your cover letter isn't the right length, is structured the wrong way, or doesn't match the style of your resume, it might do the opposite and hurt your application.

By using a cover letter template, you get a pre-formatted, professional, and recruiter-friendly document that’s ready to go. All YOU have to do is fill in the contents, and you’re all set.

What to Include in Your Cover Letter?

Every good cover letter has the following sections:

Header . Start your cover letter by writing down your own contact information, as well as the recruiter’s (recruiter name, company name, company address, etc…).

Greeting . Preferably, you want to address the recruiter by their last name (e.g. Dear Mr. Brown) or their full name, in case you’re not sure what their pronouns are (e.g. Dear Alex Brown). formal greeting for the recruiter.

Opening paragraph . This is the introduction to your resume. Here, you summarize your background info (“a financial analyst with X+ years of experience”), state your intent (“looking for X position at Company Y”), and summarize your top achievements to get the recruiter hooked.

Second paragraph . In the second paragraph, you explain how you’re qualified for the position by mentioning your skills, awards, certifications, etc., and why the recruiter should pick YOU.

Third paragraph . You talk about why you’re a good match for the company. Do you share common values? Is the company working on projects you’re interested in? Has this position always been your dream role?

Formal closing . Finally, you end the cover letter with a quick summary and a call to action (“I’m super excited to work with Company X. Looking forward to hearing from you!”).

How to Write a Great Cover Letter?

There’s a lot that goes into writing a great cover letter. If you want to get the full picture, you can check out our guide on how to write a cover letter .

For a quick summary, though, here are our top 4 cover letter tips :

Avoid Fluff . You want to be as specific as possible with your cover letter. Avoid vague statements like “I’m a good fit for the company because I’m a good critical thinker!”

Do Your Research. Most companies don’t like people who “spray and pray” - applying for dozens of jobs without giving them much thought. What they ARE looking for is someone who’s passionate about their field, the position, and even the company. So, research the companies you apply for as much as you can and show off your knowledge in your cover letter.

Don’t Use a One-Fits-All Cover Letter . As much as you can, try to tailor your cover letter to the job you’re applying for. Even if it’s something small, like addressing the hiring manager by their last name instead of “Dear Sir/Madam,” or mentioning something specific about the role or the company that you’re passionate about, it can help you prove that you’re not using the same generic cover letter to apply to dozens of jobs.

Back-Up Your Achievements with Data . When possible, back up your experience with data. Instead of saying, “I improved company revenue”, say “I managed to hit and exceed sales KPIs for 5 months in a row.”

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

Most recruiters agree that a cover letter should be brief and concise .

Optimally, that’s about half a page to one full page, and between 250 to 400 words long.

How Can I Write a Student Cover Letter?

You should write a student cover letter pretty much the same way you’d write a regular cover letter, with one key difference.

To make up for your lack of work experience, you should talk about the following:

Why do you want to work for the company and the position you’re applying for.

How your educational background has prepared you for the job.

How your skill set can help you stand out and excel at the job.

You also want to mention anything else that’s relevant to the job and that can prove your abilities, such as any internships, awards, honors, and the like.

In case you’re writing a cover letter for an internship , make sure to check out our guide.

How Can I Write a Cover Letter With No Experience?

If you’re an entry-level candidate, writing a cover letter might seem super scary. If you don’t have any work experience and professional accomplishments, what are you supposed to talk about in your cover letter?

Here’s some good news—you can focus on these topics instead:

Education highlights

Relevant skills

Independent projects

Volunteering experience

Extracurricular activities

Passion to learn and grow as a candidate

For a complete guide on how to write an entry-level cover letter , check out our guide.

How to Format a Cover Letter?

Here’s what you need to know on how to format a cover letter the right way:

Choose the right cover letter template for your industry . The better fit the cover letter, the less you’ll have to play with the layout and format.

Use colors sparingly . Don’t go overboard with creativity unless you work in an industry where that’s valued (marketing, advertising, design, and the like).

Select professional font styles and sizes.

Set the margins to 1 inch on each side to make sure there is enough white space and the document doesn’t look crowded with text.

Get Inspired with Our Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter templates faq, do i need a different cover letter for every job.

While you don’t need to write a different cover letter from scratch for every single job you apply for, it’s good to tailor your cover letter contents as much as you can to the company and position you’re applying for.

Hiring managers will always go for an applicant who’s interested in their specific position over a candidate that’s sending the same application to dozens of roles.

If you tailor your cover letter to the position, even if it’s something small like addressing the hiring manager by their name or explaining how you possess the right skills for the specific job, your chances of getting hired are going to be much better!

How to Make a Simple Cover Letter for Your Resume?

Simply pick one of our 16 effective cover letter templates above to get started.

We’d recommend matching your cover letter template to the resume template you picked.

Not only will it make your application package look more sophisticated and professional, but it will also make you more memorable for the recruiter who’ll go over your application.

Who Created These Cover Letter Templates?

Novoresume cover letter templates were created in cooperation with professional recruiters and hiring managers.

This means they’re up to date with the latest industry trends and job market requirements. With a Novoresume cover letter template, you can rest assured that your cover letter will look professional and modern at the same time.

When Should I Email My Cover Letter Instead of Using a Template?

As a rule of thumb, it’s always better to use a cover letter template instead of including it in the body of your email as plain text. By using a well-designed and effective cover letter template, you’re guaranteed to look like a more serious and professional candidate.

So, you should only email your cover letter if the job ad specifically asks you to.

Should I Use a PDF or Word Cover Letter Template?

We recommend going for a PDF cover letter template instead of Word.

All types of Operating Systems and devices can open PDF formats without ruining the formatting, design, or layout.

The same, however, cannot be said for Word templates. If, for example, you’ve used a 2021 Word cover letter template and the hiring manager opens it using an MS Word 2016 software version, there’s a chance your formatting will get messed up, or that your font will be unreadable.

To err on the side of caution, we always advise using a PDF cover letter template.

What is the Best Cover Letter Template in 2024?

There’s no such thing as the “best cover letter template.”

After all, every single recruiter has their own personal taste. Some might like a shiny and flashy cover letter template, while others might think it’s tacky. As a rule of thumb, though, we usually recommend customizing each cover letter for the company you’re sending it to.

Do I Really Need a Cover Letter in 2024?

Yes, you definitely need to submit a cover letter with your resume in 2024.

Even if the hiring manager never reads your cover letter or if the job description doesn’t specifically ask for one, a cover letter can still help strengthen your application and make you look like a more serious and proactive candidate.

As such, it’s always a good idea to include a cover letter with your resume.

How to Make a Cover Letter With Novoresume?

To make a cover letter with Novoresume, simply scroll up and pick a template that you like best. Then, register or log in to your Novoresume account. From there, you can add your cover letter contents, as well as personalize and edit them as you see fit.

The Novoresume builder is very intuitive and user-friendly, allowing you to create your cover letter lightning-fast.

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Jobscan > Cover Letter Writing Guide

How To Write A Cover Letter in 2024 (Expert Tips and Examples)

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to write a cover letter that will get you noticed by recruiters.

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A survey revealed that 77% of recruiters prefer candidates who send in a cover letter, even if submitting it is optional. Additionally, 90% of executives consider cover letters invaluable when assessing job candidates.

So, if you think cover letters are no longer important and necessary in 2024, think again.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you write a cover letter that effectively sells your skills and professional experience, increases your chances of getting interviews, and gets your foot in the door.

Table of Contents

What is a cover letter and do you still need one in 2024?

A cover letter is a letter of introduction accompanying your resume that paints why you are the best person for the job, what you bring to the table, and how you can help move the company forward.

Is the cover letter dead? No! In fact, a recent study by ResumeLab revealed that 64% of job vacancies still require that you include a cover letter in your application and 83% of HR pros said that cover letters are important for their hiring decision.

The bottom line is that a cover letter is still a valuable piece of your job search collateral. Nail your cover letter and you could end up getting that dream job.

So what exactly do you need to accomplish in your cover letter?

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

According to 49% of HR managers , your cover letter is the second best way to call attention to your resume and distinguish yourself from other applicants.

So the main purpose of your cover letter is to compel the recruiter to read more about you on your resume and move you to the next part of the hiring process.

Further, according to award-winning resume expert Melanie Denny , your cover letter is your value proposition letter. It proves why you are the best candidate to address the company’s needs with the professional skills and qualifications to succeed in the job.

Here’s an example of a great cover letter:

cover-letter-writing-guide

Now let’s get into the details of what your cover letter needs to include.

Cover Letter Structure Checklist

Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to include in your cover letter.

  • Contact Details Name Address (or City, State with zip code) Phone number Email address
  • Greeting Whenever possible, address the hiring manager by name.
  • Opening Who are you? What are your relevant skills and accomplishments?
  • Body (1-2 paragraphs) What do you know about the company? Why are you applying for this job? What value can you bring to the company? Include measurable results when possible.
  • Closing Reiterate your interest. Add a Call to Action. Mention any attachments. Use a professional sign-off like “Best” or “Sincerely” before your full name.

Here’s an example for the visual learners out there:

cover-letter-writing-guide

Now that you know the basics of what to include in your cover letter, let’s go through the process from start to finish to see how you can write a cover letter that will make you stand out from the rest of the candidates.

How to write a cover letter in 9 steps

It can be intimidating to try to parse down all your best qualities into a few quick paragraphs for your cover letter.

Here are 9 steps you can take to make sure you’re headed in the right direction:

Step 1. Do your research

Before writing your cover letter, thoroughly read the job description and the requirements for the job.

Melanie Denny , award-winning resume expert, likens the job description to your cover letter cheat sheet. And when checking the job description, she says you need to consider the following:

  • What are the company’s priorities?
  • What are their goals for the role?
  • What outcomes and accomplishments in your previous roles match the goals?
  • What are the key phrases and verbiage the company uses?

This will help you customize your cover letter, angle yourself and your narrative to fit the role better, and impress the hiring manager.

Try reaching out to the recruiter, hiring manager, or someone working in the company if you want more in-depth information about the company and the position you are applying for.

Step 2. Customize your cover letter for every job

Make sure your cover letter matches the job you are applying for. Writing a generic cover letter is a missed opportunity as this will not appeal to the recruiter or hiring manager. According to research from ResumeGo , 81% of HR professionals value job-specific cover letters over generic ones. Jobseekers who had tailored cover letters received a 53% higher callback rate compared to those who had no cover letter.

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to prove that you are passionate about working for a given company, so take the time to write a tailored cover letter for each position . You can do this by mentioning your skills and experience that are directly related to what’s mentioned in the job description. If you’re applying for a data analyst role that requires expertise in Microsoft Power BI, cite an example of a Power BI dashboard you built and how it helped the company.

Read our full guide: How to Optimize Your Cover Letter

Step 3. Include all of your contact info

You should make it easy for the hiring manager to reach you. In your cover letter, list these three things:

  • Address (including zip code– for ATS purposes )
  • Phone number with area code
  • Email address
  • Name of the Hiring Manager
  • Name of the Company
  • Address of the Company

Traditionally, your contact information is included in the upper left corner of your cover letter if you’re writing in a document. If you’re writing an email, this can be included beneath your signature at the end of the message.

Cover Letter Header Example:

Jane Jobscan Seattle, WA 98101 (555) 555-5555 • [email protected] linkedin.com/in/jane-jobscan

February 25, 2024

Lavinia Smith Hiring Manager Media Raven, Inc. Plantersville, MS 38862

Step 4. Address your cover letter to a real person

According to Melanie Denny, resume expert and President of Resume-Evolution, addressing your cover letter to a real person and addressing them by their name feels more personal and shows recruiters and hiring managers that you took time and did the research.

You can usually find the hiring manager’s name by searching the company website or LinkedIn profile, or by calling the company and asking which hiring manager is assigned to the particular position.

Once you learn the name, a simple greeting of “John” or “Hello John” is all you need.

If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, you can use any of the following:

  • Dear Hiring Manager
  • Dear (Department) Team
  • To whom it may concern

Read our full guide: How to Address a Cover Letter

Step 5. Write a strong opening statement

Melanie Denny suggests that you start your cover letter with a bang. This will hook the hiring manager’s interest and show them how you can be a valuable addition to the team.

Here are things you can do:

  • Open with a thought-provoking question
  • Make a big claim about what you can do for the company
  • Say something relevant and specific to the company

For example,

“I want to bring the marketing department of Media Raven Inc. to the next level and help the company exceed goals and reach more customers as Marketing Manager.”

Step 6. Prove how your professional background and skills help the company in the body of your cover letter

Take advantage of this real estate and prove to the prospective employer how your background, values, and professional experiences position you as the best fit for what the role requires.

This is especially important if you are switching careers. Highlight your relevant accomplishments in your cover letter, showcase your transferable skills, and explain how you can help the company address its challenges and succeed.

For example:

“As the Director of Marketing at ABC Company since 2018, I directed all phases of both the creative and technical elements of marketing initiatives, including data mining, brand creation, print/web collateral development, lead generation, channel partner cultivation, customer segmentation/profiling, as well as CRM and acquisition strategies.

Perhaps most importantly, I offer a history of proven results, as evidenced by the following marketing accomplishments for my current employer:

  • Captured a 28% expansion in customer base since 2018, achieved during a period of overall decline in the retail industry.
  • Led national marketing campaign (comprised of trade shows, media, and PR initiatives) for my company’s newly launched technology services division
  • Developed and executed SEO strategy that achieved and sustained top 3 rankings on Google (organic, nonpaid results) for key product search terms.
  • Oversaw the creation of a new company logo and rebranded 100+ products to cement a cohesive corporate identity and support new company direction.”

Just like when writing a resume, your cover letter should only include the most relevant and positive information about you. To home in on the right skills and qualifications to mention, try scanning your cover letter .

Read our full guide: What Do You Put in a Cover Letter?

Step 7. Write a strong closing statement and a call to action

Use the closing of your cover letter to:

  • Thank the hiring manager for their time
  • Mention any attachments (resume, portfolio, samples)
  • Invite to schedule an interview
  • Let the hiring manager know that you will follow up

Keep the closing professional and try not to sound too eager since that can come off as desperate. You must also keep in mind the tone and personality of the company you’re communicating with.

“Given the opportunity, I’m confident I can achieve similar groundbreaking marketing results for Media Raven, Inc.

Ms. Smith, I would welcome the chance to discuss your marketing objectives and how I can help you attain them. Feel free to call me at (555) 555-5555 or email me at [email protected] to arrange a meeting. I look forward to speaking with you.”

Read our full guide: How to End a Cover Letter With a Call to Action

Step 8. End with a professional closing salutation

To finish out the closing , use a formal signature. You can use “Sincerely,” “Best,” “Regards,” “Yours,” or any other professional signoff.

Use your first and last name as your signature. If you’re sending your cover letter in the body of an email, make sure it’s your personal email account that does not list your current work signature beneath the email. Your other option is to write the cover letter in a word document, save it as a PDF, and attach it to your email.

Step 9. Optimize your cover letter for the ATS

The Applicant Tracking System or the ATS is a software that companies use to screen applications and shrink their pool of applicants. Through the ATS database, a recruiter or hiring manager can just search for specific skills and keywords and the ATS will return a list of the top candidates who match the search criteria.

To optimize your cover letter for ATS, you need to:

  • Carefully read the job description
  • Take note of skills and resume keywords frequently mentioned
  • Incorporate these keywords into your cover letter

Read our full guide: How to Optimize Your Cover Letter to Beat the ATS

Does your cover letter pass the test?

Scan your cover letter to see how well it matches the job you're applying for. Optimize your cover letter and resume with Jobscan to get more interviews.

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How to Format Your Cover Letter

A cover letter is a letter, but that doesn’t mean you should just plop everything onto the page in a stream-of-consciousness flow. After all, cover letter formats determine the order in which the hiring manager learns about you, which can significantly influence their first impression. Use the format order below as a guideline for building the structure of your cover letter.

cover-letter-writing-guide

Notice how the topics flow like a conversation? When you first meet someone, you introduce yourself, tell them your name and a little about yourself, and then leave the conversation open for future meetings.

Your cover letter is just a like having a conversation with someone for the first time. Keeping that in mind will help you to keep things simple and focus on the right information.

Below are some examples of how to format your cover letter for different types of applications.

How to format your cover letter for a job

  • State your name
  • Explain your work history
  • Tell them what you can do for their company
  • Say goodbye

How to format your cover letter for an internship

  • Explain your coursework history and education
  • Explain what you can gain professionally

How to format your cover letter with no experience

  • Explain your skillset and character qualities that make you well-suited for the role
  • Outline entry-level achievements

You can also check out our cover letter templates to help you as you write your own cover letter.

Do you want to save time and receive instant feedback on your cover letter? Check out Jobscan’s cover letter tool .

Read more : How to Write a Resume for Today’s Job Market

Cover Letter Examples

Here are some examples to help you create a cover letter that will make you stand out and give a strong first impression.

1. Internship Cover Letter Example

cover-letter-writing-guide

2. Career Change Cover Letter Example

cover-letter-writing-guide

3. Operations Manager Cover Letter Example

cover-letter-writing-guide

4. Communications Professional Cover Letter Example

cover-letter-writing-guide

5. Software Engineer Cover Letter Example

cover-letter-writing-guide

Cover Letter Do’s and Don’ts

Aside from the basic steps of how to write a cover letter, there are some things you definitely need to make sure you avoid – and things you can’t skip! Follow these do’s and don’ts for writing a cover letter, and you’ll end up with a much better result.

  • Use a cover letter unless one was requested.
  • Attach a cover letter directly to your resume unless requested to do so.
  • Use the same boilerplate cover letter for multiple job applications.
  • Over-explain your work history, employment gaps, or qualifications – save it for the interview.
  • Badmouth any of your past employers.
  • Use the cover letter to complain or tell about your job search journey.
  • Use non-standard formatting like tables, columns, or graphics. (ATS can’t read those and your cover letter copy might not be scannable by the system.)
  • Use long paragraphs.
  • Customize a cover letter for every job application that asks for one.
  • Incorporate the top skills or keywords from the job description in your cover letter.
  • Include the company name and address, the job title, and point of contact’s name on your cover letter.
  • Incorporate relevant and compelling measurable results in your cover letter.
  • Explain, briefly, any dramatic shifts in a career (i.e. you are changing industries or job titles).
  • Use company information to relate your interest in the job.
  • Keep your cover letter concise.
  • Convey WHY you are right for the position.

More Cover Letter Tips

  • When emailing your cover letter, be strategic with your subject line. Never leave the subject line blank, and double-check for specific instructions in the job posting. If possible, use the email subject line to sell yourself. For example: “Experienced Software Engineer Seeks Senior Level Mobile Position.”
  • Keep your cover letter brief and to the point. The hiring manager will be reading many cover letters. By carefully selecting your words and experiences to include, you can stand out from the crowd of applicants.
  • Be confident. Let the hiring manager know the reasons why you deserve this position, and make yourself believe them too!
  • Your cover letter should not be simply a rephrasing of your resume. Let your personality show and go into further detail about your most valuable skills and experiences.
  • Do your research on the company and position before writing the cover letter. It should be customized to that specific company’s values and needs. Hiring managers can spot a generic resume from a mile away.
  • Use the job posting as your guide for what topics, skills, and experience to focus on.
  • The best cover letters include keywords from the job posting. Applicant tracking systems may scan your cover letter along with your resume and will be using these keywords to sort through the applicants.
  • Check for spelling and grammar errors.
  • Send your cover letter as a PDF to avoid readability issues and to present the most professional application package.
  • Scan Your Cover Letter with Jobscan to make sure you’re checking all the boxes.

Optimize Your Cover Letter with Jobscan’s Cover Letter Scanner

In addition to resume scans, Jobscan Premium users can also scan their cover letters against a job description.

This generates a report of the top hard skills and soft skills found in the job description that should be included in your cover letter, plus additional checks for optimal length, contact information, measurable results, and more.

Here’s how it works:

Key Takeaways

Your cover letter gives recruiters, hiring managers, and prospective employers an overview of your professional qualifications and relevant accomplishments that position you as the best candidate for the job.

So you have to make your cover letter powerful and interesting enough to make the recruiter or hiring manager read your resume and move you to the next step of the hiring process.

Here are key pointers when writing your cover letter.

  • Make sure you’ve read the job description and done your research about the company.
  • Get to know the name of the recruiter or hiring manager so you can address your cover letter properly.
  • Include relevant and measurable accomplishments in the body of your cover letter to prove to the hiring manager that you have what it takes to succeed in the job.
  • Keep your cover letter short and concise.
  • Your cover letter is not a substitute for your resume so don’t just copy and paste whatever is in your resume into your cover letter.

One last important reminder!

Having a strong cover letter is not enough. You also need to create a killer resume to make sure you stand out and land job interviews.

Learn more about writing a cover letter

How to Address a Cover Letter-block

How to Address a Cover Letter

10 Tips for Writing a Cover Letter-block

10 Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

The Career Change Cover Letter: How to Get it Right-block

The Career Change Cover Letter: How to Get it Right

What Do You Put in a Cover Letter?-block

What Do You Put in a Cover Letter?

Is Your Cover Letter Robot-Approved?-block

Is Your Cover Letter Robot-Approved?

How to End a Cover Letter with a Call to Action-block

How to End a Cover Letter with a Call to Action

Frequently asked questions, what are the different types of cover letters.

There are four types of cover letters.

  • Application cover letter An application cover letter is what you send to the recruiter or hiring manager along with your resume.
  • Prospecting cover letter You send this when you want to inquire prospective employers about open positions in their company or put yourself top-of-mind when they do decide to hire.
  • Networking cover letter You will send this to professionals in your network in hopes of getting referrals, introductions, job search advice, and job opportunities.
  • Career change cover letter This is what you send when you are switching careers or industries.

What tense should I use when writing a cover letter?

It can be appropriate to change tenses throughout your cover letter.

For example, you can explain who you are in the present tense and explain important aspects of your work history in the past tense. You can switch to future perfect tense when discussing the ways you would perform if given the position.

Think of it like this, “I am ABC, I did XYZ previously, and I look forward to doing EFG in this position.”

What to include in a cover letter

Our cover letter guidelines above explain how to write a cover letter more deeply, but in summary, you should always include your name, relevant work experience, and reasons why you are right for the job in your cover letter.

When not to include a cover letter

  • When the job posting clearly states not to include a cover letter
  • When you don’t have the time and energy to customize your cover letter. It’s better not to send a cover letter than to send a half-baked and mediocre one.
  • When you are applying online and there is no field to upload your cover letter.
  • When your cover letter has a lot of typos and errors.

What should you send first: a cover letter or a resume?

Typically, your cover letter and resume will be sent as a pair, but your cover letter is meant to be an introduction to your resume. If it is an email, use the cover letter in the body and attach your resume, otherwise, attach both.

Pro Tip: Be sure to review all instructions in the job description to follow the hiring manager’s requests.

How long should a cover letter be?

According to 70% of recruiters, a cover letter should not exceed 250 to 300 words.

Although there is no hard and fast rule about this, the ideal cover letter length should be around half a page to one full page in length to keep your message concise, clear, and easy to digest.

Should a cover letter be sent as a file attachment?

If it is not specified in the job posting, a cover letter can be sent either as an attachment (PDF is best) or in the body of an application email with your resume attached.

How to share a cover letter with a potential employer

There are several methods of sharing a cover letter with potential employers, depending on their application process.

Cover letters can be written on a document and turned into a PDF to be uploaded to a job application website or attached to an email along with your resume.

In other cases, your cover letter can simply be written in the email message to a hiring manager, with your resume attached.

How to title and save your cover letter

The key in every aspect of job applications is to make yourself an easy “yes” for your potential employer. That means making it easy for the hiring manager to keep track of your application materials for later review. With this in mind, make sure your full name and the phrase “cover letter” are included in the file label. Other helpful details might include the job title you’re applying for or the year of your application.

Here are a few examples:

  • Your Name_Cover Letter_Job Title.pdf
  • Cover Letter_Your Name_Job Title.pdf
  • Job Title_Your Name_Cover Letter.pdf
  • Your Name_Cover Letter_2024.pdf
  • Cover Letter_Your Name_2024.pdf

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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.

How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job in 2022 (With Examples)

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?

letters of intent job cover letter

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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Free cover letter templates

Stand out and get hired faster with our collection of free professional cover letter templates expertly-designed to land you the perfect position.

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General cover letter template.

A general cover letter template is the perfect starting point for writing your next job-winning cover letter. In the example below, you’ll find a cover letter that can be modified to suit just about any position or industry. 

Make sure to update it to include key examples from your own experience and education. Each cover letter is a chance to convince the employer that you’re the best candidate for their role, so make it count!

You’ve developed an excellent resume. What a relief! But you’re not finished with your job application package. It’s time to write a stellar cover letter. That blank page can be scary, but the tips below will help you grab that interview.

General cover letter example

Why use our cover letter templates

Resume.io’s cover letter templates offer several advantages when it comes to completing your application and landing your next great position. We take pride in creating fresh and professional designs that stand out and make a positive first impression in today’s competitive job market. 

Here are a few reasons why our free cover letter templates are a cut above the rest:

  • Expertly crafted templates: Our team of professional graphic designers is constantly creating and updating our templates to make sure they meet the needs of today’s job seekers. Our collection of templates ranges from minimalist and modern to bold and creative to ensure that we offer the perfect cover letter template for every candidate.
  • Approved by recruiters: We work with career HR and recruitment professionals to make sure our cover letter templates meet the strict standards of today’s employers. We follow the latest hiring trends to update and adapt our cover letter templates for the needs of modern job seekers.
  • Customize with ease: Not only do we provide expertly designed free cover letter templates, but we also offer an intuitive cover letter builder to help job seekers customize their application letters with ease. Our cover letter builder is easy-to-use and full of helpful features and advice to help you craft a cover letter that’s a cut above the rest.
  • AI-powered tools: Even the best writers could use a hand sometimes. That’s why we’ve introduced AI-powered sample sentences that can be inserted directly within the cover letter builder and updated for your own experience. Our powerful spelling and grammar checker also helps to eliminate costly cover letter errors.

Most job applications specify whether they’d like to receive your cover letter as a PDF or Word Docx format. We’ve made it easy to download either option within our cover letter builder.

Choosing the right cover letter template

Every candidate and every position is unique, meaning the same cover letter won’t work for everyone. That’s why we’ve created an extensive collection of cover letter templates with designs ranging from clean and classic to modern and attention-grabbing. 

Within our cover letter builder, you can also easily switch from one template to another, meaning the perfect cover letter design is always within reach. Our free cover letter templates are divided into four categories:

  • Simple: Our simple cover letter templates are go-to classics that can work for a wide variety of positions and applicants. These templates are best-suited for students and first-time job seekers, along with applicants working in fields like hospitality, transportation, logistics, and retail. Our simple templates are highly versatile and can serve as a great starting point for any cover letter.
  • Modern: If fresh ideas and innovation are the keys to your industry, our modern cover letter templates are the right choice. These designs feature minimalistic lines, clean fonts, and a refreshing balance of white space to text. Our modern cover letter templates are perfect for candidates in IT, marketing, administration, and sales.
  • Creative: If your industry or job title calls for a bold approach, look no further than our collection of creative cover letter templates . These designs feature bright colors, striking fonts, and larger-than-life headers to draw attention to your cover letter. Our creative cover letter templates are perfect for candidates in fields like film and television, design, photography, art, architecture, content creation, and any job where your personality should be in the spotlight.
  • Professional: Sometimes, tried-and-true is the only option, and that’s where our professional templates come into play. These are classic designs with traditional font choices and the organized sections recruiters expect to see. When in doubt, a professional cover letter template is the way to go, especially in fields like business, medicine, education, engineering, accounting, and finance.

What makes a good cover letter template?

A good cover letter template is a combination of elements that work together to highlight and emphasize a candidate’s experience and qualifications for the role. 

Here are a few factors that make a good cover letter template:

Header: An excellent cover letter template features a header that draws attention to the applicant’s name and contact information. The header may be located at the top or on the side of the page, but it must contain key details like a phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile or portfolio website.

Balance of white space to text: A great cover letter template is easy to read and carefully balances the amount of white space in the text to avoid visual fatigue for the reader. Paragraphs should be divided in a logical way, and margins should not be shrunk to cram in more text.

Font choice: The best cover letters use font styles and sizes that are both legible and appropriate for the industry or job title. A good cover letter builder eliminates the guesswork by automatically choosing the right font and size for the cover letter template.

Color or design elements: While not appropriate for every industry, a touch of color or a dividing line can help create a more attractive page design and make the candidate stand out in a crowded applicant pool. Resume.io’s cover letter templates that feature color give several options so that you can choose the hue that works best for your application.

Different jobs can require different cover letter formats , which is why we’ve made it easy to switch colors, line spacing, or even whole templates directly inside our cover letter builder.

Cover letter template frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is a good format for a cover letter.

A good format for a cover letter is one that catches the hiring manager’s attention with an attractive layout, easy-to-read font, and clear and concise information about the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

What are the three parts of a cover letter?

The four parts of a cover letter are as follows:

  • The greeting: The way the hiring manager is addressed at the start of the cover letter.  
  • Introduction: The first one or two sentences that introduce the candidate and the role they are applying for.  
  • Body: The main paragraphs of the cover letter where the candidate discusses their experience and the reasons why they’re right for the job.  
  • Conclusion and sign-off: The final sentences that express interest for the role and include the candidate’s full name as a signature.

How long should a cover letter be?

A good cover letter should be around 300 words or within the range of 250-350 words. This equals roughly three paragraphs. Any shorter and the reader may not fully understand why you are qualified for the role. Any longer, and you risk losing the reader’s attention before they get to the end of your letter.

What are three do’s and three don’ts with a cover letter ?

  • Include a header that aligns with the design and information on your resume
  • Use numbers and concrete information to show your accomplishments
  • Leave a balance of white space to text to increase readability
  • Change the document margins to cram in more text or make your cover letter appear longer
  • Add a full street address to your cover letter
  • Go overboard with images, design elements, or colors

What are two things that should always be in a cover letter?

Two things that should always be in a cover letter are the name of the company and the role you are applying to. Hiring managers often look for candidates for multiple openings at once, so this helps the employer identify who you are and the job you are looking for.

Are cover letters necessary?

Cover letters are one of the best ways to increase your chances of landing your desired position. That’s because they give you the opportunity to expand on key experiences from your resume. 

While not every hiring manager reads cover letters, the ones that do can often use them to determine who is on the shortlist for an interview. We recommend every applicant write a cover letter to show their interest and qualifications for the position.

How to end a cover letter

We recommend always ending your cover letter with a call to action. This sentence expresses your enthusiasm for the position and politely suggests that the hiring manager get in touch with you for an interview. 

You can also leave your name and contact information in this section once again, space permitting. Then, sign off with a phrase like “Sincerely” or “Best regards” and your full name.

How do you address a cover letter without a name?

While using the hiring manager’s name on your cover letter is the best way to establish a personal connection, some companies do not share information about who will be reading your cover letter. In that case, a more general greeting like “Dear (Company Name) Hiring Team” or “Dear (Department Name) Team Lead” can do the trick.

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COMMENTS

  1. How To Write a Letter of Intent (With Template and Tips)

    2. Introduction. Use the first one or two sentences of your letter to formally introduce yourself. This section can include your name, a brief explanation of your current experience level and your reason for writing. For example, if you're a recent graduate, include information about your degree and areas of study.

  2. Letter of Intent: What It Is, How to Write It, and Examples

    It's not ideal, but definitely better than " To whom it may concern. " (Seriously, here are 7 ways to address your letter that aren't "To whom it may concern.") 2. Explain your interest in the company. A letter of intent is about the employer, so you want to express plenty of interest in the company itself.

  3. How to Write a Letter of Intent (With Template & Example)

    Use this template to write your letter of intent: Subject line: [Your Name] - [Current Title] Looking to Share Expertise. [Date] Dear [recipient's full name or Hiring Manager], Introduction and hook: [Introduce yourself, state your intent and add an exciting hook to grab the reader's attention.]

  4. How To Write A Letter Of Intent: Samples and Extra Tips

    Differences Between A Letter Of Intent And A Cover Letter Purpose. A cover letter is specifically written to address a job opening. It highlights your skills and experience to convince the employer you're the perfect fit for the open position. ... Some companies prefer receiving letters of intent via email, an online application portal, or ...

  5. Letter of Intent: What Is It & How to Write One (with Examples)

    Please don't hesitate to contact me for further information. My email address is [email address], and my phone number is [phone number]. Thank you again, [name] 3. Letter of intent for a business proposal. Dear [name of recipient], I'm writing to outline the proposed business transaction you and I discussed on [date].

  6. What is a Letter of Intent? How to Write One for a Job [+ Examples]

    A letter of intent proposes action, while letters of interest are for information gathering. Commitment level. A letter of intent is a high-commitment way of expressing interest in a company, while a letter of interest is a lower commitment. An individual is more likely to send out multiple letters of interest. Action orientation.

  7. Letter of Intent: Template & Writing Guide (With Examples)

    Format your letter of intent just like a cover letter—with three paragraphs and 1-inch margins. Use your first paragraph to hook the reader fast with your #1 accomplishment. In paragraph two, add more achievements that show you fit the job like hand-in-glove. Write a call-to-action in the last paragraph of your LOI.

  8. How to Write an Impressive Letter of Intent for a Job

    Body paragraphs: Discuss the points you introduced in your introduction in detail. Final paragraph: Restate your motivation to join the company, keep a line of communication open, and thank the reader for their consideration. Closing: End the letter with a formal closing phrase and your name. 5.

  9. How To Write A Letter Of Intent For A Job (With Examples)

    To write a letter of intent start strong with a greeting to the correct person and briefly explain why you are writing. You should explain why you would be a good match for the company and a work area that you are interested in. Be sure to focus on your accomplishments in your letter. If you've ever wanted to work for a specific company but ...

  10. How to Write a Letter of Intent for a Job

    Here are three tips to follow to make the writing process easier: 1. Express interest in the company. The first paragraph should make it clear why you're writing a letter of intent, but also why you're writing to that particular company. The more specific you are, the better. Here are some topics you can bring up in your intent letter to ...

  11. How to Write a Letter of Intent for a Job (With Examples)

    Write a letter of intent to express your interest in a company: Some employers will ask for a letter in job postings. In other cases, you may send a letter of intent to a company with no current job openings. Don't rehash your resume: Your letter should be a sales pitch. It should complement your resume and generate interest in you as a ...

  12. Job Letter of Intent: How to Write (with Example and Template)

    Format - for a Job Letter of Intent. Your name, address, and phone number. Date. Name of the person the letter is addressed to, address, phone number. Salutation. Body - Paragraph 1 - Introduction. Body - Paragraph 2 - Describe Skills, Abilities & Credentials. Body - Paragraph 3 - Next Steps and/or Call to Action. Closing.

  13. Letter of Intent (LOI) How-To Guide + Expert Examples

    A letter of intent, also known as a letter of interest, is a letter that expresses your desire to work for a particular company and provides an overview of your professional accomplishments. It may sound like a cover letter, but it serves a different purpose. The letter of intent is used when there are no job openings that fit your job search ...

  14. How to write a letter of intent for a job [+ 2 samples]

    To write a simple letter of intent you should: Write the letter in a very easy to understand language. Avoid using hyperboles in your writing. Make sure to add a date, address of the recipient and your address. Ensure that you add a salutation followed by an introduction.

  15. How to Write a Great Cover Letter in 2024 (+ Examples)

    1. Personalization. Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role. 2.

  16. Letter of Intent vs Cover Letter: What's the Difference?

    Cover letters and letters of intent also aren't sent in the same ways. Letters of intent can be sent at any moment while cover letters are sent only when you are applying for a specific position. If you're applying for a job opening like most people usually do, definitely write a cover letter that will go along with your resume.

  17. Sample Letter of Intent for a Job: Free & Effective

    Answer: A cover letter is specific to a job posting, while a letter of intent expresses interest in working at the company in a broader sense. I've found that letters of intent are great for networking and uncovering unadvertised opportunities. Q: Can I use the same letter of intent for multiple job applications? Answer: While it's tempting ...

  18. How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job in 2024

    Respectfully, Kind regards, Best regards, Yours truly, Then, make two spaces below the salutation, and type your full name. For some professional (but optional) flair, sign your cover letter either with a scan of your signature or by using software like DocuSign. 8. Check your cover letter's content and formatting.

  19. Cover Letter for Internal Position & Promotion Examples

    Cover letter for promotion example. Although similar to a general cover letter for an internal position, a promotion cover letter differs in two key ways. First, a cover letter for a promotion specifically emphasizes your higher-level experience.For instance, if you're looking to land a managerial role, provide examples of management experience you've acquired as an employee.

  20. Cover Letter Examples for an Internal Position or Promotion

    Cover letter for promotion example. Dear Ms. Silverton, Delighted at the prospect of growing my career with Company ABC, I'm writing to apply for the open Administrative Assistant position. The opportunity to join your team two years ago as a Receptionist gave me the chance to work with a highly talented team in an exciting industry.

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

    Middle paragraph (s) Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Show Transcript.

  22. 16+ Cover Letter Templates [Get Started in 1 Click]

    From there, you can add your cover letter contents, as well as personalize and edit them as you see fit. The Novoresume builder is very intuitive and user-friendly, allowing you to create your cover letter lightning-fast. Build a professional cover letter within minutes. Pick one of our 16 top templates, fill it in online, and download it in ...

  23. How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Step 2. Customize your cover letter for every job . Make sure your cover letter matches the job you are applying for. Writing a generic cover letter is a missed opportunity as this will not appeal to the recruiter or hiring manager. According to research from ResumeGo, 81% of HR professionals value job-specific cover letters over generic ones ...

  24. The Short Cover Letter: What to Include & Why (with Examples)

    Cover letters, short or long, are increasingly unpopular among job seekers. However, a 2023 survey of 625 hiring managers across the nation found that 60 percent of companies still require cover letters, writes Rebecca Tay, Ph.D. at ResumeGenius.. While medium and large companies are more likely to require cover letters (72 percent and 69 percent, respectively), nearly half of small businesses ...

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

    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.

  26. Cover Letter Templates and Examples for 2024

    3. Win the name game. If possible, address your cover letter to the hiring manager or project manager by name. This personal touch shows your attention to detail—and it's attention-grabbing. If the job post doesn't include a contact name, visit the company website or LinkedIn to try to find the right person.

  27. Best Cover Letter Templates for 2024 (+ Free)

    Cover Letter Templates. Click on a cover letter template, fill it online, and download in seconds. Build a professional cover letter in a few clicks. Just pick one of 18+ cover letter templates below, add ready-made content, and get the job. Resume templates.

  28. Free Cover Letter Templates (Try Now) 2024 · Resume.io

    Boston. With a defined header and strong horizontal lines, this cover letter template makes for a bold approach. 27 Free Cover Letter Templates that get you hired faster Pick a Modern, Creative, Professional, or Simple Cover Letter Template 31 million users!

  29. Free Cover Letter Template for Your Resume (Copy & Paste)

    Pantheon. The "Pantheon" cover letter template's bold header projects confidence, making it ideal for executives. 2024. Designed for the modern job seeker, our "2024" cover letter template is perfect for people in any industry. Classic. "The Classic" cover letter template is clean, traditional, and the perfect format to start off your application.