Cover Letter Template For A Resume
A cover letter is an important part of almost any job application. While a resume offers a thorough look at your background, skills, and education, the cover letter is your opportunity to point out information that makes you well qualified for the position at hand.
Think of the letter as making the case for your candidacy. And, while resumes tend to be a bit dry, listing information in bullet points, a cover letter has room to be more engaging.
Myth : You Wont Stand Out If You Use A Cover Letter Template For Word
Put yourself in the hiring managers position. Would you rather read:
a) A poorly formatted cover letter made from scratch or,
b) A well-structure and professional looking cover letter?
Hint: the answer is b. A cover letter written using a well formatted, professional cover letter template, will always stand out more than a messy cover letter made from scratch.
A cover letter template is simply a framework that allows you to easily write the best cover letter possible. Once youve added your own skills, professional experiences, and unique wording, itll already stand out from any other cover letter as uniquely yours and the hiring manager will see that too.
Tips For Using A Cover Letter Template
A cover letter template helps you with the layout of your letter. Templates also show you what elements you need to include in your letter, such as introductions and body paragraphs.
While you should follow the template, you can customize the body paragraphs to suit your needs:
- For instance, the template lists several paragraphs, but if you need to fewer paragraphs, adjust accordingly.
- If you feel bullet points are the most effective way to convey your qualifications, go ahead and use them.
- Keep in mind that there are slightbut significantdifferences in the cover letter format if you’re sending your letter as a hard copy or attached letter, or if you are sending it as an email.
Also Check: How To Make A Resume For Work
Template 1: Healthcare Cover Letter
Get it here.
What stands out to me in this cover letter is the direct, straight-to-the-point bullet points that reference the job posting. The cover letter, created by The Balance Careers, cuts down on repetition by following the “I have” statement with six bullet points that highlight the applicant’s strengths, including “I have … practical knowledge of creating and implementing care plans” and “I have … a proven track record of compassionate, effective care”.
Additionally, phrases like “I’d love to put my skills to work for your clinic” and “Please contact me at your convenience and let me know how I can help you” focus on what the business will gain as a result of hiring the applicant, rather than what the applicant is looking to gain.
Write An Introduction That Grabs Attention At First Glance
Your cover letter is the very first chance you get to introduce yourself to your potential future employer, so make sure you make it count. However, as we mentioned earlier, recruiters and hiring managers receive a lot of applications. Many of them probably wont even read entire cover letters, especially those that look completely generic.
Think of it as having a couple of seconds to grab the hiring managers attention. The very first few lines of your cover letter should already spark interest and must have a positive impact on recruiters. Make them want to read the rest of your cover letter and flip through your resume, too.
Here are some quick tips that will help you start writing the perfect cover letter introduction.
- Write a brief introduction about yourself. Let the recruiter know who you are and what you do.
- Specify the position you are applying for and make this clear right from the very start.
- Summarize your qualifications or your selling points. Let them know why you are the right person for the job.
- Include some of your most important achievements and best skills that are relevant to the position.
Tip:
Correct example
Heres a great example of a cover letter introduction:
I am Vanessa Curry, a digital marketing specialist focusing on social media and paid advertising management. I have over 7 years of professional experience and would like to continue nurturing my career at ABC Digital Marketing Co. as a senior digital marketing specialist.
Incorrect example
Read Also: How To Remove Resume From Linkedin
Show Honest Interest And Enthusiasm
In the introductory paragraph of your cover letter, state why the specific company or position you are writing about interests you. Also, include a sentence that conveys your passion for the organizationâs mission, product, culture or other attributes. Show the reader why you want this opportunity, specifically.
For example, if you are writing about a sales opportunity at a solar company, you might include the following background in your introduction:
âI have always been interested in sales. In fact, while growing up, I had endless ideas and multiple business ventures to show for it. I channeled that skill into a professional sales career and, now, as a passionate advocate for alternative energy, I am drawn to your organization. I am impressed by âs projects and position as an innovative industry leader and I would be thrilled to offer my expertise to your team.â
How To Use Samples And Templates
Designing a document from scratch can be time-consuming and difficult. Along with helping with your layout, written examples can help you see what kind of content you should include in your document. They can also give you ideas on the type of language you want to use. For example, a sample resume might show you the kind of action words you should include in your resume.
A template helps you with the layout of your document. Templates also show you what elements you need to include. For example, a resume template will show you some possible sections you might include in your resume.
You May Like: How To List Training Skills On Resume
Template : Data Scientist Cover Letter
Get it here.
This is our second template from Princeton University. While this is focused on a data scientist role, it is an excellent template to use for students applying to jobs prior to graduation.
The text emphasizes how the applicants academic research and projects makes them an ideal candidate for the position. The format is also simple enough to submit as a pdf, as text in an email message or an application text box.
Myth : For Such An Important Document It Feels Lazy Not To Make A Cover Letter From Scratch
Using a cover letter template is not lazy. Its efficient and resourceful .
Not to mention, using a template is proven to increase your chances of landing a job. Of course, you could delve into the mysteries of formatting your own cover letter, and after hours of frustration and headaches, develop a somewhat decent looking cover letter.
Or, you could download and use one of our free Google Docs cover letter templates or templates for Microsoft Word. Its up to you.
Related Articles
Recommended Reading: How To Make Money Writing Resumes
Elaborate On Your Skills And Achievements
Next, you want to write more about your skills and achievements. Re-read the job posting carefully and note all the critical skills the recruitment manager is looking for.
This is the same technique you applied while targeting your resume by highlighting specific resume keywords.
All you have to do is take those skills and achievements and describe them in more detail. The middle paragraph of your cover letter should convince the reader that youre the one and only candidate for the job.
Heres a librarian cover letter example that can inspire you:
Sample Librarian Cover Letter
The job ad mentions that youre seeking a librarian with experience in . As a with , I gained extensive experience with . Therefore, Id love to apply my skills and knowledge at .
Top 5 Good Cover Letter Templates
You May Like: How To Write An Acting Resume
General Cover Letter Example
This general cover letter was written by a candidate with two years of work experience.
In the example, the candidate is applying for a mid-level digital marketing position. In the first paragraph, the applicant:
Start Your Cover Letter With Your Title
Just the same as with your resume, you need to begin your cover letter with a title or header. The title section includes your name, title, and contact information. Make sure all these are clear, easy to read, and accurate. You want the hiring manager to know how to reach out to you even without having to look up your details on your resume.
The title section of your resume should include the following information.
- Your first and last name
- Profession, occupation, or position
- The date youre sending out the cover letter
Use this cover letter template as a guide when writing the best cover letter header.
Tip:
Read Also: What Is A High School Degree Called On Resume
Experienced Professional Cover Letter Template
Need an application letter for a senior position? Our professional cover letter template offers a clear format for presenting your skillset and accomplishments.
If youre established in your field or applying for a promotion, customizing this professional template in Word will help you create a cover letter that makes a powerful impression.
Resume Examples And Templates
When it comes to writing a resume, one size does not fit all. The template you should use depends upon factors including your industry, your level of experience, and whether you are considering a career change. Reviewing these resume examples and templates will give you a better idea of which format would work most effectively for you.
Read Also: Are Resume Writers Worth It
How To Write A Perfect Cover Letter In 5 Steps
Especially for applicants who dont consider themselves to have good writing skills, crafting a cover letter might seem like a very challenging task. Some applicants would even skip writing a cover letter altogether simply because they find it inconvenient or just too difficult.
However, preparing a cover letter to attach to your resume is not as difficult as it seems. Allow us to share with you a simple step-by-step procedure that you can keep in mind. Before you know it, youre done writing an impressive cover letter!
Browse Top Search Terms On Seek
Did you know, many candidates preparing a resume also research their industry by exploring top search terms?
Think of your cover letter as a pitch a way to introduce yourself professionally and show the value you could bring to the role youre applying for. Your resumé is there to document your skills, experience, and achievements, but your cover letter sums these things up in a way that speaks to the job and offers a sense of who you are.
Its also your chance to show why youre interested in the particular role, and that youve done your research about the company or organisation.
You can tailor the cover letter to you and the job youre applying for, by explaining:
- why youre interested in that role
- what the most relevant skills and experience you could bring to it.
Don’t Miss: Google Docs Resume Format
Examples Of How To Write A Cta
- I would love to hear any feedback that you can offer.
This call to action encourages the recruiter to reach out to you outside of your application.
- I want to discuss my background further at your earliest convenience.
This call to action implies that there are more details about you, and this may interest the recruiter in getting back to you to know more about your background.
- Please let me know if you need anything else.
This is a good way to open dialogue with the recruiter and may encourage them to get back to you.
- Dont hesitate to contact me here.
This call to action invites the recruiter to contact you and implies that youre eager to hear from them.
- Please keep me in mind for future openings.
This call to action encourages the recruiter to keep your information even if you dont get the opportunity which may help you get another opportunity that comes up in the future.
Cover Letter Sample For A Resume
The Balance / Alex Dos Diaz
Do you need to write a cover letter for a job? You may feel as though the document is unnecessary since you are already providing a resume with plenty of information.
Not so! A cover letter serves an important purpose: it presents the case for why you should be hired and distinguishes you from other candidates. Your cover letter is where you can show your passion for the position and the company, and highlight your most relevant qualifications. A well-written cover letter will supplement your resume by focusing on why you’re a well-qualified candidate for the job.
Many employers require cover letters as part of the job application process. However, even when an employer does not explicitly ask for a cover letter, you should send one. A Robert Half survey reports that 58% of employers prefer to receive a cover letter and find them to be valuable.
You May Like: What Does A Resume Consist Of
Why Use A Cover Letter Template
Your cover letter is just as important as your resume.
After all, your resume is what gets your foot through the door, but a cover letter is what opens that door.
So, if you put so much effort into your resume, why not do the same for your cover letter?
A good cover letter template can show the recruiter that youre serious about the job .
Myth : Hiring Managers Disapprove Of Candidates Who Use A Cover Letter Template
Hiring managers love cover letters that look professional, are well-written, well-formatted, comprehensive, and follows a standard cover letter format. We know, because thats exactly what the HR professionals who helped design every resume cover letter template requested.
So why would they ever look down on someone using a template that is perfectly formulated to fulfill those requirements? They wouldnt.
Don’t Miss: Non Specific Resume Summary Examples
Modern Cover Letter Templates
When youre in an industry thats forward-thinking and innovative, a traditional cover letter just wont cut it. Thats why weve developed a collection of sleek options to convey your unique abilities in fields like tech, start-ups, marketing and design. If a youthful look is what youre after, our free modern cover letter templates are right for you.
These templates are characterized by bold headers with energetic color palettes and strong fonts. They allow optimal white space for a clean look, all while highlighting what really matters your most impressive achievements and unique qualifications.
Why This Is A Great Example Of A Cover Letter
In the cover letter example above, the candidate is concise and direct. She conveys much of what a cover letter should say in the opening paragraph, like her amount and type of experience, plus where she found the job.
Then the candidate lists specific responsibilities from the job description, and mentions her experience handling similar work. She even gives an example of how her efforts have benefited her current employer.
At this point, the candidates cover letter has already helped the hiring manager better understand her value as a hire. But shes not done yet.
Finally, the candidate signs off by mentioning how shell reach out if she doesnt hear back from the hiring manager. This is a key part of a general cover letter, because it highlights the writers interest in the job, and willingness to go further than other candidates for the opportunity.
Write your own call to action to show youre serious about the job, and willing to make the first move if necessary.
Read Also: How To Write The Best Resume
What To Include In Your Cover Letter
Every good cover letter has the following sections:
Header – On top of the cover letter, you write down your own contact information, as well as the recruiters .
Greeting – A formal greeting for the recruiter. E.g. Dear Sir or Madam, To learn how to address your cover letter better, check out our article.
Opening paragraph – The introduction of your resume. Here, you summarize your background info , state your intent , and summarize your 1-2 achievements to get the recruiter hooked.
Second paragraph – In the second paragraph, you explain how youre qualified for the position and why the recruiter should pick YOU.
Third paragraph – You talk about why youre a good match for the company. Do you share common values? Is the company working on projects youre interested in? Etc
Formal closing – Finally, you end the cover letter with a quick summary and a call to action .