Examples of Cover Letters + Free Template and Easy Tips

If you're submitting a printed copy of your cover letter, you should use the format of a traditional business letter. Don't forget to add a handwritten signature and note that you're enclosing a copy of your resume.

In this first cover letter example, we have an experienced teacher applying to work at a local school:

Susana C. Smith

12345 Maple Lane

Janesville, MA 55555

May 17, 2017

Angela Adams

Janesville Consolidated Schools

54321 West Oak Avenue

Janesville, MA 55555

Dear Ms. Adams:

As an experienced elementary school teacher committed to developing lifelong inquisitive learners, I'm confident my skills and background align perfectly with the requirements of your recently advertised fourth-grade teaching position.

Enclosed is my resume outlining my expertise in classroom management, curriculum planning, and teacher-parent relations. My credentials include a history of creating rigorous and relevant lesson plans in reading, mathematics, language, science, and social studies, incorporating both play and hands-on teaching.

I'm also committed to building strong relationships with students and their families, as demonstrated by my past experience volunteering at PTO events throughout the school year and serving as a teacher liaison during the summer reading program at the North Oak Public Library.

Thank you for your interest and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you again.

Sincerely,

[Handwritten Signature]

Susana C. Smith

Enclosure: Resume

With our first example under your belt, take a look at Writing a Creative Cover Letter. With these tips in mind, let's move on to the next example.

Here's another example of a cover letter in a traditional format. This one is geared toward a career in IT. It begins with an objective (I'm interested in…), moves into related experience, and cites an example of what the applicant can do for the company.

Christopher L. Smith

12345 Maple Lane

Janesville, MA 55555

May 17, 2017

Adam Masterson

ABC Software

987 Birch Street

Janesville, MA 55555

Dear Mr. Masterson:

In my search for a new challenge where I can leverage my experience in project leadership, database administration, and solution architecture, I was pleased to find ABC Software's opening for a senior software development manager. Eager to learn more about this exciting opportunity, I have enclosed my resume for your review.

As my career profile illustrates, I have specialized in enterprise-wide IT solutions and application development for the past six years. I am accustomed to the rigors of fast-paced, highly regulated environments requiring sharp attention to detail, consummate accuracy, and outstanding communication skills.

In me, ABC Software will gain a diligent, goal-oriented professional with the agility, dedication, and focus required to successfully fill the role of senior software development manager. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

[Handwritten signature]

Christopher L. Smith

Enclosure: Resume

For more on the art of the resume, check out these Tips for Writing a Professional Resume.

If you're submitting your cover letter in the body of an email, you don't need to include address information at the top or use the enclosure notation to indicate that your resume is attached to the message.

While an email letter is more informal, you should still write your email in a professional tone.

Dear Mr. Morris,

As an experienced leader in the field of marketing and project management, I'm eager to learn more about Jacobson & Jackson's open project manager position.

Throughout my 15-year professional career, I've found my greatest successes have been in developing strategic partnerships, implementing innovative marketing strategies, and increasing company revenues. Accomplishments in my most recent position include managing a $2 million department budget, designing and executing a $300 million cause marketing partnership with the largest media and entertainment conglomerate in the world, and developing ongoing advertising partnerships with seven key industry leaders.

I look forward to meeting with you to discuss your expectations for the project manager position and my ideas to energize the department. I will follow up with you shortly to answer any questions you may have.

Sincerely,

Marcus J. West

You'll notice a similar flow here: a statement or objective, a brief review of professional experience, and a statement of the applicant's unique ability to fill the role.

Dear Mr. Clark,

With over 10 years of account management experience, I believe that I possess the passion, experience, and acumen to be successful in your recently advertised senior account management position.

Throughout my career, I have been most proud of my ability to anticipate, identify, and meet customer needs. At my most recent employer, I developed strong relationships with C-levels and decision makers, as well as with end users. Additionally, I supervised a staff of 16 professionals and maintained a $900,000 annual budget.

As someone who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment and is driven to continually exceed revenue targets, I wholeheartedly believe I am the perfect candidate for this opportunity with your company. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

William V. Jones

Let's review what we've seen. Writing a winning cover letter isn't difficult if you keep a few simple tips in mind.

• Address your letter to an actual person. If at all possible, address your cover letter to a specific person within the company. Nobody likes to read generic form letters, so a few minutes of online research, or a quick phone call, is often well worth the effort.
• Express your enthusiasm. Your resume is a summary of your experience and qualifications. Your cover letter is a chance to highlight why you're the perfect fit for this particular role. A letter that demonstrates you're familiar with what the company does and that you know how you can contribute will make you stand out.
• Highlight key points from your resume. While you don't want to rehash your resume completely, it's a good idea to highlight particularly relevant skills or keywords. For example, you may choose to elaborate about a project demonstrating mastery of a key software program used in the position you're applying for.
• Keep it brief. Be respectful of the hiring manager's time. Your cover letter should never be more than one page. Often, two or three paragraphs are sufficient.
• Proofread carefully. Don't simply rely on spell check to catch mistakes. Spell check won't catch errors in company names or mistakes such as typing "form" when you meant "from." Proofread your cover letter yourself, then ask a friend to look it over as well.

To help you format your cover letter correctly, download the PDF below and use it as a template.

While silly jokes or informal slang are never appropriate in a cover letter, don't be afraid to show off your unique personality, especially if you're applying for a job in a creative industry, such as design or media.

A creative resume and cover letter that sets you apart from the pack is often just what you need to earn an interview for your dream job. And, when it's time to ace that interview, check out these Smart Questions to Ask in an Interview.