The best cover letter ever

Welcome to Career Insider. Employers get hundreds (sometimes thousands) of resumes for each job opening. And often, it's the little things that will set you apart from the rest. What if writing the best cover letter they've seen instantly puts you in the "must interview" pile?

Here’s how to completely master your next cover letter.

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COVER LETTERS
How to write a killer cover letter

A great cover letter will separate you from a sea of mediocre candidates. It’s usually a one-page document submitted with your resume introducing you to the hiring manager. Usually, it’s your first impression.

Think of it as your written pitch – a chance to make a solid impression and show why you're the ideal candidate.

Here's a breakdown of what a cover letter does:

• Introduces You: It tells the hiring manager who you are and what position you're applying for.
  

• Highlights Your Skills and Experience: It connects your qualifications to the specific requirements of the job description, showcasing how your abilities and background make you a good fit.
  

• Expresses Your Interest: It demonstrates your genuine enthusiasm for the role and the company, explaining why you're drawn to this opportunity.
  

• Expands on Your Resume: It provides context and details that your resume can't, allowing you to tell a more compelling story about your career path and aspirations.
  

• Calls to Action: It encourages the hiring manager to take the next step, such as inviting you for an interview.

A cover letter is not just a rehash of your resume. It's a chance to showcase your personality, communication skills, and passion for the role. A well-written cover letter can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview.

Things to include in your cover letter

The best cover letters include several key elements (we’ll also examine a couple of examples that combine these concepts).

Here are the must-have elements to include in a cover letter:

1. Header:

   • Include your contact information (name, address, phone number, email).

   • Include the date.

   • Include the employer's contact information (name, title, company, address).
     

2. Salutation:

   • Address the letter to a specific person, if possible. Use "Dear [Name]" or "Dear Hiring Manager" if the name is not available.
     

3. Introduction:

   • State the position you are applying for and how you learned about it.

   • Briefly introduce yourself and mention an essential qualification or experience that makes you a strong candidate.
     

4. Body:

   • First Paragraph: Explain why you are interested in the position and the company. Show that you have researched and understand the company’s goals or values.

   • Second Paragraph: Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you meet the job requirements and can contribute to the company.

   • Third Paragraph: Address any potential employer concerns about your application, such as gaps in employment or a career change, if applicable.
     

5. Conclusion:

   • Reiterate your interest in the position and the company.

   • Mention that you have attached your resume and are looking forward to the opportunity to discuss your application further.

   • Thank the employer for their time and consideration.
     

6. Closing:

   • Use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name.
     

7. Signature:

   • If sending a hard copy, leave space for your handwritten signature above your typed name.

   • For an email, type your name.
     

8. Attachments:

   • Mention any additional documents you have included, such as your resume or portfolio.

By including these elements, you can create a compelling cover letter that effectively communicates your qualifications and enthusiasm for the job.

In the next section, we’ll look at a couple of examples

COVER LETTER EXAMPLES
Here’s what great cover letters look like

Enough with the background. If you’re like most people, you probably learn by example. So, let’s take a look at some examples of great cover letters.

Example #1: Stacey Jackson
Position: Senior Accountant
Employer: Acme, Inc

123 Main Street
Anytown, USA 12345
(555) 123-4567
[email protected]

[Date]

Hiring Manager
Acme, Inc.
456 Corporate Blvd
Business City, USA 67890

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Senior Accountant position at Acme, Inc., as advertised on your company website. With over eight years of experience in accounting and finance, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and help drive Acme, Inc.'s financial success.

In my current role at XYZ Corporation, I have successfully managed a team of accountants and have been responsible for overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance. My efforts have led to a 15% reduction in reporting errors and a streamlined month-end closing process. I am particularly proud of implementing a new financial software system that improved data accuracy and efficiency across departments.

I am drawn to Acme, Inc. because of your commitment to innovation and excellence in the industry. I am impressed by your recent expansion into international markets and believe my experience in global financial regulations and cross-border transactions would be a valuable asset to your team. I am eager to bring my financial analysis and strategic planning expertise to support Acme, Inc.'s continued growth and success.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your team. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to Acme, Inc., and I am excited about the opportunity to work with such a dynamic and forward-thinking company.

Sincerely,

Stacey Jackson

Example #2: Thomas Henderson
Position: Executive Assistant
Employer: Apple

Thomas Henderson
789 Elm Street
Metropolis, USA 54321
(555) 987-6543
[email protected]

[Date]

Hiring Manager
Apple Inc.
1 Infinite Loop
Cupertino, CA 95014

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Executive Assistant position at Apple, as advertised on your careers page. With over six years of experience providing high-level administrative support to senior executives, I am eager to bring my organizational skills and proactive approach to your innovative team.

In my previous role at Tech Solutions Inc., I supported the CEO and executive team by managing complex calendars, coordinating international travel, and organizing high-profile meetings and events. My ability to anticipate needs and streamline operations resulted in a 20% increase in executive productivity. I am exceptionally skilled in using technology to enhance efficiency, having implemented a digital filing system that reduced document retrieval time by 30%.

Apple's reputation for innovation and excellence draws me to this opportunity. I am inspired by your commitment to creating products that enrich people's lives and am excited about the prospect of contributing to such a forward-thinking company. My experience in fast-paced environments and my passion for technology make me a perfect fit for the dynamic culture at Apple.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your team. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of supporting Apple's executives and contributing to the company's continued success.

Sincerely,

Thomas Henderson

Notice that both cover letters did several vital things well: They expressed confidence in the company’s mission, which tells the hiring manager this candidate did their homework and knows the industry. Both letters also detailed their experience in similar roles, helping to make a compelling case for an interview.