what's a cover letter when applying for a job

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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• Cover Letters

Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

What Is an Application Letter?

What to include in your application letter, tips for writing a cover letter, cover letter sample and template, email cover letter sample.

• How to Send an Email Application

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Alex Dos Diaz / The Balance

What's the best way to write a letter to apply for a job? Your letter should detail your specific qualifications for the position and the skills you would bring to the employer. What’s most important is to show the employer that you’re a perfect match for the job.

Your job application letter is an opportunity to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experience. An effective cover letter will enhance your application, showcase your achievements, and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Review what to include in a job application letter, tips for writing that will get your application noticed, and examples of cover letters and email messages to send when applying for a job.

Key Takeaways

• An application letter accompanies a resume and may be uploaded to a job portal, sent via email, or even sent by postal mail, depending on the employer’s requirements.
• Application letters are an ideal way to show your interest in a job and highlight your most relevant skills.
• It’s important to match your letter to the job description and show the employer you have the qualifications they are seeking.

A   letter of application, also known as a  cover letter , is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information about your skills and experience to an employer. Your letter of application is intended to provide detailed information on why you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, what makes you a strong candidate, why they should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up.

Effective application letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify the most relevant skills that qualify you for the job.

Unless an employer specifically requests a job application letter sent by postal mail, most cover letters today are sent by email or attached as a file in an online application tracking system.

As with all cover letters, a job application letter is divided into sections:

• The heading includes your name and contact information.
• A  greeting  addressed to a specific person, if possible.
• The introduction includes why the applicant is writing.
• The body discusses your relevant qualifications and what you have to offer the employer.
• The close thanks the reader and provides contact information and follow-up details.
• Your  signature to end the letter .

Here’s how to ensure your application supports your resume, highlights your most relevant qualifications, and impresses the hiring manager.

Get off to a direct start.  In your first paragraph, explain why you are writing. Mention the job title, company name, and where you found the job listing. While you can also briefly mention why you are a strong candidate, this section should be short and to the point.

Offer something different than what's in your resume. You can make your language a bit more personal than in your resume bullet points, and you can tell a narrative about your work experience and career.

Application letters typically accompany resumes, so your letter should showcase information that your resume doesn't.

Make a good case.  Your first goal with this letter is to progress to the next step: an interview. Your overarching goal, of course, is to get a job offer. Use your application letter to further both causes. Offer details about your experience and background that show why you are a good candidate. How have other jobs prepared you for the position? What would you bring to the role and the company? Use this space to  emphasize your strengths .

Close with all the important details.  Include a thank you at the end of your letter. You can also share your contact information and mention how you will follow up.

This is a sample cover letter.  Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for an email sample.

The Balance

John Donaldson 8 Sue Circle Smithtown, CA 08067 909-555-5555 john.donaldson@email.com

September 6, 2023

George Gilhooley LTC Company 87 Delaware Road Hatfield, CA 08065

Dear Mr. Gilhooley,

I am writing to apply for the programmer position advertised in the Times Union. As requested, I enclose my certification, resume, and references.

The role is very appealing to me, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education make me a highly competitive candidate for this position. My key strengths that would support my success in this position include:

• I have successfully designed, developed, and supported live-use applications.
• I strive continually for excellence.
• I provide exceptional contributions to customer service for all customers.

With a BS degree in computer programming, I have a comprehensive understanding of the full lifecycle of software development projects. I also have experience in learning and applying new technologies as appropriate. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.

I can be reached anytime via email at john.donaldson@email.com or by phone at 909-555-5555.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.

Signature  (only if a hard copy letter)

John Donaldson

The following is a sample email cover letter to send as part of a job application.

Email Application Letter Example

Subject: Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

I'm writing to express my interest in the Web Content Manager position listed on Monster.com. I have experience building large, consumer-focused, health-based content sites. While much of my experience has been in the business world, I understand the social value of this sector, and I am confident that my business experience will be an asset to your organization.

My responsibilities have included the development and management of website editorial voice and style, editorial calendars, and the daily content programming and production for various websites.

I have worked closely with health care professionals and medical editors to provide the best possible information to a consumer audience of patients. I have also helped physicians use their medical content to write user-friendly and easily comprehensible text.

Experience has taught me how to build strong relationships with all departments in an organization. I have the ability to work within a team, as well as cross-team. I can work with web engineers to resolve technical issues and implement technical enhancements. 

I am confident working with development departments to implement design and functional enhancements, monitor site statistics, and conduct search engine optimization.

Thank you for your consideration.

Colleen Warren colleen.warren@email.com 555-123-1234 www.linked.com/colleenwarren

How to Send an Email Application Letter

If sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title you are applying for in the  subject line  of the email:

Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Include your contact information in your email signature but don't list the employer's contact information.

Do you have to write a cover letter when you apply for a job?

Some employers require cover letters. If they do, it will be mentioned in the job posting. Otherwise, it’s optional but it can help your chances of securing an interview. A cover letter gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer, showcase your qualifications, and explain why you are a perfect candidate for the job.

How can you use a cover letter to show you’re a qualified candidate?

One of the easiest ways to show an employer how you’re qualified for a job is to make a list of the requirements listed in the job posting and match them to your resume . Mention your most relevant qualifications in your cover letter, so the hiring manager can see, at a glance, that you have the credentials they are looking for.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter? "

What Supplemental Information Should Your Resume Include?

Your resume is a snapshot of your professional journey so far, and you’ve perfected it.

But now that you’re about to apply for that job you’ve been eyeing, you realize there might be something missing.

Whether you want to elaborate on something from your resume or the application asks for an additional document, you might need to provide some supplemental resume information.

The good news is that supplemental information can give your resume a boost while providing necessary documents. You just need to figure out exactly what those documents are.

The great news? We’re here to help.

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• What Supplemental Information Is
• Examples of Supplemental Resume Information and Supporting Documents
• Tips for Submitting Supplemental Resume Information

Let’s dive in.

What Is Supplemental Information?

Any additional documents or materials that can complement or expand on the details in your resume are supplemental information.

While your resume is meant to provide a concise overview of your work experience , skills, and education, the supplemental information can help show the hiring manager the bigger picture.

For example, supplemental information can give you the chance to explain your education in more detail through transcripts, elaborate on previous achievements with deliverables, or back up your skills or qualifications with certificates.

Including the right supplemental information and supporting documents alongside your resume can make your job application stand out. On top of that, it can give hiring managers a more comprehensive idea of you as a professional.

When Should You Include Supplemental Information?

In most cases, supplemental information isn’t mandatory.

Your most important career information should already be included in your resume .

However, if the job ad specifies that the company wants supporting documents from candidates, you should provide any supplemental information that the hiring manager asks for.

That said, if the job ad or hiring manager doesn’t ask you for supplemental information, there are still a few cases when it’s a good idea to provide it. These include:

• Explaining employment gaps. If your resume shows irregular employment periods or career gaps, you should always provide context for the hiring manager. The best place to do this is in a cover letter.
• Applying for a college program. Both university programs and internships for students often require supplemental information, such as transcripts or letters of recommendation.
• Showing relevant qualifications. You might want to provide a copy of a relevant degree, professional license, or other certification , depending on the industry you’re applying to. For example, nurses and estheticians usually have to submit their relevant licenses.
• Mentioning additional work experience. While your resume might include your most recent professional experience, you might want to prove a relevant internship or personal project through supplemental documentation.
• Providing client testimonials and product reviews. If you’re a business owner or a contractor, backing up your expertise with reviews is always a good idea.
• Including publications or a portfolio. Depending on your field, you might want to provide examples of your work, such as published books or a design portfolio.

7+ Types of Supplemental Information and Supporting Documents

There are different types of supplemental information you can provide for a job application. Let’s look at the most common documents you can expect to need:

#1. Letters of Recommendation

Whether you’re applying for college or looking for a new job, you might need a letter of recommendation .

A letter of recommendation is a document in which someone, usually a former employer, professor, or colleague, vouches for your skills, character, and accomplishments. It provides a third-party perspective on your capabilities and work ethic and adds credibility to your application.

A letter of recommendation can be particularly valuable when you're looking for a job that requires strong interpersonal skills or specific technical abilities. By attaching a letter of recommendation to your application, you’re giving the hiring manager tangible proof that someone was impressed with your past performance and professionalism.

#2. Client Testimonials

If you’re a freelancer, an independent contractor, or someone who has their own business, client testimonials can be valuable supplemental information for your job application.

Client testimonials are real-world endorsements of your work and professionalism and provide a first-hand account of your essential skills , reliability, and the quality of your work. 

They act as personal references that the prospective employer can trust and could influence their decision to hire you.

Usually, client testimonials are pinned somewhere on your product or service’s website. For example, if you’re a carpenter, you might have a personal website where you should include endorsements from past and current clients.

This helps build your reputation and increases your chances of landing your next project.

#3. Transcripts

If you’re a recent graduate or applying for a research position, you might need to provide transcripts along with your resume.

Transcripts provide potential employers and admissions committees with a detailed record of your education and academic performance , including the courses you’ve taken, your grades, and your degrees.

Employers might want transcripts to verify your knowledge in specific subject areas or to see your commitment to continuous learning. So, this is one of the cases where your relevant courses and GPA can make a difference.

#4. References

One of the most common bits of supplemental resume information is your professional references .

For some employers, references are vital since they offer them insight into your work ethic and skills directly from someone who has seen how you work. That said, they’re rarely something you need to list on your resume .

Typically, former supervisors, coworkers, or mentors may give you references. If you have no work experience , your references can even be former educators or classmates.

Employers use references to confirm the claims you make on your resume and cover letter, so make sure you choose references that can back up the most important information you’re giving the hiring manager.

For example, if your previous job includes impressive achievements, make sure that one of the references you choose confirms those accomplishments. For example, you don’t want to include your high school classmates as professional references if you’re applying for a job as a marketing executive .

#5. Salary History

Your salary history is information that’s rarely requested, and it doesn’t normally make it to your resume. Depending on where you live, it might not even be legal to disclose this information on a job application.

For starters, research your local labor laws to see if the employer is allowed to ask you about your salary history at all. The practice is banned in some countries and states, and sometimes it’s banned for specific industries.

If the employer has requested your salary history but you’ve found it’s not legal, just include a line in your cover letter that explains the situation and tell them you’d love to discuss your salary expectations instead. (E.g.: due to state laws, I cannot disclose my salary history. However, I would be more than happy to discuss my salary expectations during an interview.)

This can be the first step in negotiating your salary for the job.

Salary history might seem like an unusual request, but employers might not always know what an appropriate salary range for your position is. In that case, they might need your past salary information to base their offer on and set appropriate expectations for raises. 

To include your salary history in the supplemental information on your resume, you can simply add the approximate yearly salary next to your professional experience. We recommend using a salary range instead of an exact number. For example, if you earned $35.000 , we recommend writing it down as $30.000 - $40.000 .

Alternatively, you can also create a separate document known as a salary history letter, where you can provide more details about your career profession and your previous salaries.

#6. Publications

Other types of supplemental information you can include are any publications under your name.

Publications are common for academics and professional writers alike, though the types of publications are different. 

For example, editors can show their work across different platforms, like blogs or books, while digital marketers would need to show copywriting samples.

Academics, on the other hand, can provide copies or references to their research papers, articles, or books that have been published in academic journals or presses. Unlike writers who use publications to show their writing skills, an academic’s publications showcase their expertise in their field, including research skills or in-depth knowledge of a subject.

Both types of publications contribute to your credibility, and they can pique the hiring manager’s curiosity, so we recommend providing links to your published work.

You can include publications as supplemental information in your resume by adding them as separate sections. Then, you can list and link to your articles, essays, or other texts. You can even add a link somewhere on your resume to a separate portfolio with writing samples.

However, if you don’t have enough space on your resume, another great way to provide this information is by sending a separate document that lists your publications. For some positions, for example, you might be asked to provide separate writing samples, depending on what the employer requests.

#7. Portfolio

If you’re applying for a job in a creative field, such as illustration or photography , you need a portfolio.

Portfolios are essential for creatives because they give employers a clear visual demonstration of your skills, style, and range of work. A well-curated portfolio reflects your best projects and shows the hiring manager that you match what they’re looking for.

If you’re an artist who’s worked with different mediums or held different positions, make sure to tailor your portfolio to the specific job you’re after. An animator ’s portfolio looks very different from a graphic designer ’s. 

Your portfolio should reflect the style and medium that the employer is looking for, so if the job ad says they need someone skilled in Adobe Photoshop, make sure your digital paintings reflect your proficiency with the specific software.

There are several ways you can include a portfolio in your job application. The most common way is to include a link to a digital portfolio. This can either be hosted on a platform like Behance or a personal website.

We recommend bringing physical copies of some of your best work to your job interview. For video editors and musicians, this would have to be on a CD or flash drive.

If you’re applying for a job as an architect or interior designer , you might have to bring a larger physical copy of your portfolio. Read the instructions in the job ad carefully, or ask the company for more information on the dimensions you should use. In the US, the most common portfolio dimensions are 11” x 17” or 8 ½” x 11”.

#8. Cover Letter

Cover letters are the most versatile and impactful type of supporting document you can include with every job application.

By writing a cover letter , you can effectively cover most of the supplemental resume information the hiring manager might want to know.

You might be wondering if you need a cover letter at all , and the short answer is yes. While they aren’t usually mandatory, cover letters show the hiring manager that you’ve gone the extra mile with your job application and that you’re not just a random applicant.

While your resume is meant to factually summarize your skills and experiences, your cover letter allows you to provide context and insight into you as a person. Don’t just repeat your resume here —instead, explain how you accomplished your most impressive achievements and tell the hiring manager what motivates you to join their team.

Your cover letter is your opportunity to sell yourself, in your own words. You can include information about your portfolio or publications, mention significant projects you’ve worked on, or even briefly discuss your research interests if you’re an academic.

To give the hiring manager the best impression possible, choose a cover letter template that visually complements your resume. Just try our cover letter templates to get started!

How to Submit Supplemental Information

Now that you’ve gathered all the supplemental information and supporting documents you might need, it’s time to submit them.

Just follow these simple steps:

• Label it with your name. Make sure every document you submit includes your full name. This way, the hiring manager can easily find every document in your application.
• Send it to the right person. Address your email appropriately so your supporting documents make it to the hiring manager. If you can find the hiring manager’s name, address them respectfully, and also explain that you’re sending supplemental information for your job application.
• Bring copies to your job interview. It’s always a good idea to have copies on hand, just in case something gets lost. Print out copies of your resume, cover letter, and any supporting documents, such as your letters of recommendation and transcripts, or bring samples from your portfolio.

Key Takeaways

And that’s all there is to supplemental resume information!

After reading our article, we’re confident you’ll know when you need to provide supporting documents on your job hunt.

Before you go, let’s do a quick recap of our main points:

• Supplemental information on your resume is any extra information or supporting documents that can tip the scales in your favor. These include cover letters, references, transcripts, and portfolios.
• Unless the job ad specifically requires them, supporting documents aren’t mandatory. Your resume is the main event, and it’s what the hiring manager will be most interested in reading.
• You should still provide supplemental resume information if you have an employment gap or want to provide more context about your experiences. This is why we recommend always writing a cover letter to complement your resume.
• Different types of supplemental information or supporting documents might be necessary depending on your job, so do your research first. Reference the job ad, read more about the company, and think about what would make the biggest difference for your application.

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