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Cover Letters for a Promotion or Internal Position

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

• Sample Cover Letter for Promotion
• Email Job Promotion Letter

Applying for a Transfer

More about getting promoted.

When you're being considered for an internal position or a promotion, you may need to write a cover letter to officially apply for the new position within your company.

What should you write in a cover letter for a job at a company where you already work? What's the best way to frame your credentials to secure a promotion?

Here's everything you need to know about crafting the perfect cover letter for an internal role, along with sample letters and writing tips.

A job promotion cover letter should clearly explain your interest in the job and delineate  how you are qualified for the position . The letter should also recap your experience and knowledge of your employer’s current mission and needs, as well as the progressive growth you have enjoyed within the company.

Don't presume the hiring manager or department manager reviewing your qualifications will know your background just because you work for the company.

Sharing the specific details of your history with the organization will help ensure  your resume gets a closer look  and that your qualifications get noticed.

This is especially true when applying for a position at a large company. Also, be prepared to discuss these  qualifications during job interviews .

See below for a general cover letter for a job promotion, as well as an email cover letter written for a retail position.

Sample Cover Letter for a Promotion or Internal Position

This is a cover letter example for an internal position. Download the internal position cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or see below for more examples.

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

June 4, 2024

Julia Lee Director, Communications ACME Retail 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Lee,

I would like to formally apply for the Assistant Communications Manager position in the Corporate Communications Department. As you are aware, I have had extensive experience with Acme Retail starting when I participated in your summer editorial intern program while I was still in college.

Since then I have been advanced through progressively more responsible positions in both the Human Resources and Marketing Departments. During my tenure, I have developed exceptional writing and editing skills and have designed and implemented highly successful communication strategies at the departmental level.

I have also demonstrated my ability to work with leaders across business units and multiple lines of business, consistently earning exemplary scores on my annual performance evaluations by my supervisors.

In addition, I have been responsible for benefits communications and employee relations, as well as liaising with the company's clients and vendors to ensure all projects are completed by established milestones.

These are just a few examples of my accomplishments and contributions to our company. I hope you will find that this brief view, in combination with the attached resume, describes a dedicated employee of Acme Retail with the experience and skills to meet or exceed the requirements of the position of Assistant Communications Manager.

I appreciate your consideration and look forward to discussing this opportunity for promotion with you at your convenience. Please let me know if there is any other information I can provide that will support my candidacy for this promotion.

Best regards,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Lewis Applicant

Email Job Promotion Cover Letter

Here's an example of a letter or email message used to apply for a job promotion to a management position at a retail store:

Subject:  Application for Manager - Shoe Department

Dear Janice,

It was with great interest that I read that Human Resources is seeking applications for a new Manager in the Shoe Department. Please accept my resume for review and consideration for this role.

I have been with Casey's for a total of four years, two in my current position of Assistant Manager in the Children's Department, and two as a Sales Associate in the Junior Department. Before coming to Casy's, I worked for Mears as a Sales Associate in the Shoe Department as well as in the Men's Department.

With my experience in varied departments, I feel I would be an asset as a Manager here at Casy's. In my capacity as an Assistant Manager, I successfully took on many of the managerial duties in the Children's Department last year when Suzy Smith was out on maternity leave, and I would welcome the opportunity to bring that same stability, energy, and dedication to the Shoe Department within the vacancy created by Amy Jenner's sudden departure.

I appreciate your consideration for this position. It has been a real pleasure to come to work every day since you hired me, and I thus look forward to continuing to grow in my career at Casy's.

Caroline Xao Assistant Manager, Shoes caroline.xo@caseys.com 555-555-1212

If you're seeking a transfer instead of a promotion, here's a transfer request letter example , a letter to use when you're relocating , and tips for requesting a transfer to a new job with your current employer.

When you're working on getting a promotion, it may take some effort to get noticed by management. There are ways you can enhance your promotability and lay a strong groundwork for a successful move up the career ladder.

Take the time to ensure you're in a perfect position to make the best impression at work and to  get that promotion you're seeking .

Key Takeaways

Provide details. Remind your employer of your history with their company, contributions to their success, and dedication to their corporate mission and goals.

Be grateful. Express your appreciation for the opportunities the employer has given you to grow within your current job with them. This will also serve as a reminder to them that you have taken good advantage of the training and increased responsibilities they have offered you.

Enhance your promotability. From the moment you accept an entry-level position with an employer you respect, look for opportunities to gain the skills that will position you to assume promotions to roles of greater responsibility in the future. 

• Career Blog

Cover Letter for Internal Position or Promotion in 2024

When it comes to applying for an internal position or seeking a promotion within your current company, it’s common to assume that your accomplishments and qualifications will speak for themselves. However, a well-crafted cover letter can make all the difference in getting noticed and ultimately landing the job.

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of a cover letter for an internal position or promotion and provide tips and strategies for crafting a standout document. Whether you’re seeking a higher-level position or simply want to transition to a different department, the tips we share can help you showcase your skills and experience in a way that catches the attention of decision-makers.

The purpose of this article is to provide guidance and insights for professionals who are seeking to advance their careers within their current organization. We’ll discuss the key elements of an effective cover letter for an internal position or promotion, such as highlighting relevant experiences and framing your accomplishments in a way that aligns with the values and goals of your company.

With the right approach, your cover letter can showcase your enthusiasm, professionalism, and suitability for the role you’re after. So, let’s dive in!

Understanding the Internal Job Application Process

One of the first things to understand when considering applying for an internal position or promotion is the differences between internal and external applications. Internal candidates have already established a foothold within the company, with knowledge of the company culture, policies, and procedures. External candidates often lack this knowledge, and may take longer to acclimate. Internal candidates may also have the opportunity to showcase their skills and experience, as they have had the opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities while in their current role.

Another important factor to consider is that the internal job application process is typically different than the external process. Internal job applications may require a different set of documents, such as a manager’s recommendation or departmental approval. Additionally, internal candidates may need to go through several rounds of interviews or assessments, as the company wants to be certain that they are the right fit for the role. In contrast, external candidates may be required to complete a more extensive screening process, such as a background check or skills assessment.

Despite the differences in the application process, there are several benefits to applying for an internal position. One of the primary benefits is the opportunity to advance within the company. Internal candidates are already familiar with the organization, its values and goals, and the skills required to succeed. This knowledge makes them uniquely positioned to excel in the new role.

Additionally, applying for an internal position allows the employee to gain new skills and experiences. While in their current role, an employee may have focused on a particular skill set or area of expertise. Moving into a new role can broaden their skill set and provide new challenges and opportunities for growth.

Another benefit of applying for an internal position is the potential for improved work-life balance. Internal candidates are already familiar with the company’s policies and procedures, which can make the transition to a new role smoother and less stressful. This can help to reduce the likelihood of burnout and increase job satisfaction.

Applying for an internal position requires a different set of considerations than applying for an external position. However, the benefits of the internal job application process can be significant, including the opportunity for career advancement, new skills and experiences, and improved work-life balance.

Researching the Company and the Position

Importance of researching the company and the position.

When pursuing an internal position or promotion, conducting thorough research on the company and the specifics of the position is critical. Not only will it demonstrate your interest and commitment to the company, but it will also equip you with vital information to showcase your skills and experience as a candidate. Employers want to see that you have done your homework and understand the company’s values, history, culture, and current goals, as well as how the open position fits into the larger picture.

Moreover, researching the position itself allows you to assess whether it aligns with your career goals and qualifications. You may discover that the position involves different responsibilities or qualifications than you anticipated, or that it’s not precisely what you’re looking for. Additionally, research allows you to tailor your application and cover letter to highlight how your experience, skills, and values align with the position and the company.

Factors to Consider when Researching the Company and the Position

Here are some key factors to consider when researching the company and the position:

Company research:

• Company Values: Understanding a company’s values helps you frame your application and cover letter within the organization’s culture and philosophy.
• Company History: Knowing the history and background of a company can give you insight into the company’s priorities, challenges, and successes.
• Company Goals: Researching a company’s current goals can help you understand its direction and how you can contribute to its success.
• Key Players: Knowing who the key decision-makers are can help you tailor your application to align with their preferences and priorities.
• Current News: Stay up to date on the company’s recent news, developments, awards, and recognition, as you can use this information to tailor your application, cover letter, and interview responses.

Position research:

• Position Requirements: Understanding the necessary skills, qualifications, and responsibilities of the position are critical for customizing your cover letter and resume to highlight how you meet these requirements.
• Job Description: Carefully review the job description to understand the expectations and goals associated with the position.
• Skills and Experience: Consider your skills and experience and how they align with the job requirements. Determine specific examples of past successes and achievements that demonstrate how you could excel in this new role.
• Network: Consider reaching out to current or former employees in the position, the supervisor or other departmental personnel to gather additional information and insights.

Performing thorough research on the company and the position is an essential part of landing an internal job or promotion. With this knowledge, you will be better positioned to demonstrate your qualifications, passion, and commitment to the organization, increasing your chances of securing your desired position.

Understanding the Job Requirements and Qualifications

When it comes to applying for an internal position or promotion, understanding the job requirements and qualifications is crucial. This will help you determine whether you are a good fit for the position and tailor your application accordingly. Here are some tips for analyzing the job requirements and qualifications.

How to analyze the job requirements and qualifications

The first step in analyzing the job requirements and qualifications is to carefully read the job description provided. Take note of the key responsibilities and tasks, as well as the required education, experience, and skills. This will give you a better understanding of what the employer is looking for and what you need to bring to the table.

Next, consider the company culture and values. How can you demonstrate that you are a good fit for the company and the position? Think about your experience, skills, and achievements that align with the company’s mission and values.

Finally, take a look at the qualifications of others who currently hold the position or who have recently been hired for similar positions. This will give you an idea of what the employer is looking for and what you need to bring to the table.

Tips for matching your skills and experience to the job requirements

Once you have a clear understanding of the job requirements and qualifications, it’s time to match your skills and experience to the job. Here are some tips to help you do this effectively:

Identify your strengths: Look at your previous experience, accomplishments, and skills to identify your strengths. How can you use these strengths to excel in the position you are applying for?

Highlight relevant experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have that aligns with the job requirements. This could include previous job duties, projects you have worked on, or skills you have developed.

Show your potential: Don’t be afraid to highlight skills or experiences that may not be a perfect match for the job requirements, but show your potential to succeed in the role. This could include transferable skills or experiences that demonstrate your ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.

Use keywords: Use keywords from the job description in your cover letter and resume to help show the employer that you are a good match for the position.

Understanding the job requirements and qualifications is key to landing an internal position or promotion. By carefully analyzing the job description and matching your skills and experience to the job, you can demonstrate your value to the employer and increase your chances of success.

Tailoring Your Cover Letter for an Internal Position or Promotion

When applying for an internal position or promotion in a company, it’s crucial to tailor your cover letter to demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the job. This is because the hiring manager already knows you and your work to some extent, and you have the opportunity to highlight your relevant skills and experiences within the company. Here are some techniques for customizing your cover letter:

Importance of tailoring your cover letter

Tailoring your cover letter shows that you’re invested in the position and have put effort into your application. It also demonstrates that you understand the company culture, values, and goals. A cover letter for an internal position or promotion is not just a formality, but an opportunity to showcase your strengths and achievements within the company.

When tailoring your cover letter, it’s important to focus on your specific accomplishments and how they align with the requirements of the position. Use this as an opportunity to highlight your relevant experiences and successes, and how they make you the ideal candidate for the role.

Techniques for customizing your cover letter

One effective technique for customizing your cover letter is to use specific examples and achievements of your work within the company. For example, if you’re applying for a management position, you could mention how you successfully led a team or implemented a new process that improved productivity. Use specific metrics and figures where possible to illustrate your accomplishments.

Another technique is to mention your familiarity with the company culture and values. Highlight how your work aligns with the company’s vision and mission, and demonstrate how you would continue to contribute to achieving those goals in the new position.

Lastly, don’t simply assume that the hiring manager knows everything about you. Provide context and background information about yourself and your experience, especially if it’s relevant to the new position. You want to show that you’ve taken the initiative to tailor your cover letter and that you are the best candidate for the job.

Tailoring your cover letter for an internal position or promotion is vital. Customize your cover letter to showcase your experiences and achievements within the company and demonstrate how you would excel in the new position. Show that you understand the company culture, values, and goals, and take the opportunity to provide context where necessary. By putting effort into your application, you stand a much better chance of securing the internal position or promotion.

Format and Structure of a Cover Letter for an Internal Position or Promotion

If you’re applying for an internal position or promotion within your company, it’s important to know the proper format and structure for your cover letter. The way you present yourself and your qualifications can greatly impact your chances of getting the job.

Guidelines for the Format and Structure of a Cover Letter

Here are some guidelines to follow when creating your cover letter:

Use a professional format:  Your cover letter should be formatted like a professional business letter. Use a font that is easy to read and keep your letter to one page.

Address your cover letter appropriately:  Address your letter to the appropriate person, such as the hiring manager or HR representative.

Include a subject line:  Clearly state the purpose of your letter in the subject line, such as “Application for [Position Name].” This will ensure that your letter is quickly understood and routed to the correct person.

Include a clear introduction and conclusion:  Your introduction should state the purpose of your letter and your enthusiasm for the position. Your conclusion should summarize your qualifications and express your desire to further discuss the opportunity.

Highlight your accomplishments and qualifications:  Use the body of your letter to showcase your skills, accomplishments, and qualifications. Be sure to mention any relevant experience and education that you have.

Use a friendly and professional tone:  Your tone should be friendly, yet professional. Avoid using overly formal language or slang.

Tips for Organizing Your Content for Maximum Impact

To ensure that your cover letter makes a strong impression, consider these tips for organizing your content:

Focus on the employer’s needs:  Tailor your letter to the specific job requirements and company culture.

Use bullet points to highlight key information:  Bullet points can help to draw attention to important qualifications or achievements.

Use numbers to demonstrate quantifiable achievements:  Employers like to see concrete examples of your accomplishments, so use statistics when possible.

Provide evidence to support your claims:  Back up your statements with examples from your past work experience.

Be concise and to the point:  Employers receive many applications, so make your points quickly and clearly.

By following these guidelines and tips, you can create a cover letter that showcases your qualifications and makes a strong case for why you should be considered for an internal position or promotion.

Opening Paragraph of Your Cover Letter

Purpose of the opening paragraph.

The opening paragraph of your cover letter serves as your chance to make a great first impression on the reader. In just a few short sentences, you need to accomplish several key things:

• Introduce yourself and state why you are writing
• Highlight the position you are interested in and how you learned about it
• Grab the reader’s attention and make them want to keep reading

Keep in mind that your opening paragraph should be concise and to the point – a lengthy introduction may turn the reader off and make them less interested in what you have to say.

Techniques for grabbing the reader’s attention

To make your opening paragraph stand out, consider using one or more of the following techniques:

• Start with a bold statement or question that sets the tone for the rest of the letter
• Use a personal anecdote or story that highlights your passion for the position or industry
• Mention a recent accomplishment or achievement that demonstrates your qualifications for the position
• Use statistics or other data to showcase your knowledge of the company or industry

No matter which technique you choose, remember to keep your language clear and professional, and avoid using clichés or overused phrases. With the right opening paragraph, you can set yourself apart from other applicants and demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the job.

Middle Paragraphs of Your Cover Letter

When writing the middle paragraphs of your cover letter for an internal position or promotion, the main purpose is to showcase your related experience, skills, and achievements that make you the best candidate for the position.

To ensure that your strengths and accomplishments stand out in the middle paragraphs, follow these tips:

• Provide specific examples of your achievements in your current role and how they have helped the company succeed.
• Demonstrate how your skills and experience are relevant to the position you are applying for.
• Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and show how you have made a positive impact in your previous roles.
• Show your enthusiasm for the position and the company by explaining why you are interested in the opportunity.
• If you have relevant education or certifications, highlight them in this section of your cover letter.

Remember to keep your middle paragraphs concise and focused on your qualifications for the position.

Closing Paragraph of Your Cover Letter

The purpose of the closing paragraph in your cover letter is to leave a lasting impression on the reader and reinforce your interest in the position you are applying for. It is your final opportunity to communicate your enthusiasm and qualifications for the role.

To express your enthusiasm and interest in the position, consider using the following techniques:

Reiterate your qualifications and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the role. For example, mention specific skills or accomplishments that align with the job requirements.

Highlight your motivation for applying to this role and what you would bring to the team. For instance, you may express your passion for the company’s mission or values and how you see yourself contributing to its growth and success.

Express your eagerness to further discuss your qualifications and fit for the role. You may suggest a follow-up conversation or express your willingness to answer any additional questions.

Remember, the closing paragraph is your final opportunity to make a positive impression on the reader. Use this section to convey your enthusiasm and qualifications confidently and clearly, and demonstrate how you can add value to the organization.

Writing a cover letter for an internal position or promotion requires a strategic approach. By highlighting your relevant experiences and qualifications, expressing your interest and enthusiasm, and showcasing the value you would bring to the team, you can increase your chances of standing out and landing the role.

Avoiding Common Cover Letter Mistakes

When it comes to writing a cover letter for an internal position or promotion, there are several common mistakes that you should avoid. These mistakes can hurt your chances of getting the job you want. In this section, we will discuss the most common mistakes you should avoid and provide tips for proofreading and editing your cover letter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not tailoring your cover letter to the job: If you are applying for an internal position or promotion, it is important to tailor your cover letter to the job you are applying for. You should highlight your relevant skills and experience that make you the best candidate for the job.

Focusing too much on your current role: When writing your cover letter, it is important to focus on the skills and experience that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Don’t only talk about your current role, but also include any relevant experience you have outside of your current role.

Being too generic: A generic cover letter won’t be as effective as one that is tailored to the job. You should use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and experience.

Making mistakes: Spelling and grammar mistakes can make a bad impression on the hiring manager. Make sure you proofread your cover letter carefully.

Tips for Proofreading and Editing Your Cover Letter

Take a break: After you have written your cover letter, take a break before you proofread it. This will help you come back to the letter with fresh eyes.

Read it out loud: Reading your cover letter out loud can help you catch mistakes you might have missed while reading silently.

Use spell check: While spell check is not always perfect, it can catch many common spelling and grammar mistakes.

Get a second opinion: Ask someone you trust to read your cover letter and provide feedback. They may catch mistakes you missed or provide suggestions for improvement.

By avoiding common mistakes and carefully proofreading and editing your cover letter, you can increase your chances of getting the internal position or promotion you want.

Sample Cover Letter for an Internal Position or Promotion

If you’re interested in applying for an internal position or promotion, a cover letter is a great way to demonstrate your interest, enthusiasm, and qualifications. Below is a step-by-step analysis of a sample cover letter, as well as tips for adapting it to your situation.

Step-by-Step Analysis

Introduction.

The introduction of the cover letter should grab the reader’s attention and establish your interest in the position. The sample cover letter begins with a direct statement: “I am excited to apply for the open [position] role in [department].” This immediately communicates that the writer is interested in the position and is a compelling way to begin the letter.

Body Paragraphs

The body of the cover letter should expand on your qualifications and demonstrate why you are the right fit for the position. The sample cover letter does an excellent job of highlighting the writer’s past experience and achievements. For example, the writer describes their experience working in a similar role and outlines their ability to collaborate with others and achieve results.

Another essential aspect of the body paragraphs is demonstrating your knowledge of the company and the position. In the sample cover letter, the writer notes that they have an understanding of the company’s goals and culture, which is a great way to demonstrate their interest in the position.

The conclusion of the cover letter should summarize your qualifications, express your excitement about the position, and provide a call to action. In the sample cover letter, the writer reiterates their qualifications and their enthusiasm for the position. They also provide a specific request for action: “I would love the opportunity to discuss my application with you in more detail in an interview.”

Tips for Adapting the Sample Cover Letter to Your Situation

Customize the introduction.

When adapting the sample cover letter to your situation, it’s essential to customize the introduction to reflect your interest in the position. Be sure to name the specific position you are applying for and the department you are interested in working in.

Highlight Relevant Experience

One of the most important things to do when applying for an internal position or promotion is to highlight your relevant experience. Be sure to describe past projects, achievements, and anything else that showcases your ability to succeed in the role you are applying for.

Show Your Knowledge of the Company

Demonstrating your understanding of the company’s goals and culture is another way to show your interest in the position. Referencing specific company initiatives or goals in your cover letter can show that you are committed to the organization’s success.

Be Clear About Your Goals

Finally, be clear about your professional goals and why you are interested in the position or promotion. Discussing your career aspirations and how they align with the new role can be a compelling way to demonstrate your enthusiasm and dedication.

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How To Write A Cover Letter For An Internal Position Or Promotion (with Examples)

• Cover Letter Examples
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• General Cover Letter Templates
• Career Change Cover Letter
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• How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job With No Experience In That Field

Find a Job You Really Want In

When you find a position you’re interested in, you’ll likely still need to apply just like everyone else, which means you shouldn’t neglect your cover letter. This is why knowing how to write a cover letter for an internal position is important. Whether you’re going for an internal position or a promotion, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll go over how to write a cover letter for an internal position or promotion, provide a sample cover letter, and give you some tips to keep in mind when writing yours. Key Takeaways When writing a cover letter for promotion, you should put just as much effort into it as you would when applying to an external position — don’t assume you’ll automatically get any favor just because you already work at the company. Be specific about why you’re the right candidate for this role and how you’d help the company by working in that new capacity. Your cover letter for internal promotion should only be one page long, so include only the necessary details. In This Article    Skip to section How to write a cover letter for an internal position or promotion Cover letter example for an internal position or promotion Cover letter for an internal position or promotion template Tips for writing a promotion or internal cover letter How an internal cover letter differs from a standard cover letter Cover letter for internal position FAQ References Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More How to write a cover letter for an internal position or promotion

In order to craft a stand-out cover letter that will stand out among the pile of other applications, it will be crucial to understand the specific elements that should be included. Those include (in order of appearance):

Date and contact formation. This should include your contact information and the date of submission.

Be sure to also include the employer, hiring manager , or recruiter’s name (whoever will be reading the cover letter) and professional information.

Opening paragraph. Explain how your current role prepared you for the new position. Include information regarding the specific role and department that you’re applying for.

Body paragraph. This should be a detailed (but brief) explanation of your current role, previous experience, and notable achievements at your employer’s company. Be sure to highlight both “hard skills” (technical skills) as well as “soft skills” (interpersonal communication skills).

Closing paragraph. This paragraph should show your expression of gratitude to your employer for your previous experience with the company up to this point, and for the opportunity to be considered for the role you’re now applying for.

You can also include information regarding how the recipient – i.e., the hiring manager or your employer – can get in touch with a trusted referral (be sure to confirm with that referral beforehand that he or she is willing to have their information included in your cover letter).

Closing and sign off. End with an appropriate closing and your signature if you’ll be handing in a physical copy of the cover letter.

Cover letter example for an internal position or promotion

Keeping in mind all of the themes that we’ve already outlined above, here’s a cover letter sample for an internal position or promotion:

August 10, 2023 Marissa Swarts Human Resources Manager Swarts & Sons Enterprises [email protected] Dear Mrs. Swarts, I’m excited to submit my candidacy for the role of Content Strategist in the company’s Marketing department. I began my employment with Swarts amp; Sons in August 2018 as an Assistant Copywriter. I have spent the last two years honing and broadening my abilities and learning a great deal from my managers within the department. I believe that the job requirements of the Content Strategist role that you’ve outlined on the company website match the skill set I have developed during my tenure with the company. I’ve contributed to a wide range of valuable projects for the company. Beginning in February of 2019, I spearheaded the new blog strategy which has become the primary format for blog post drafting and publishing across the entire Marketing department. Additionally, I helped launch a department-wide training program on basic SEO practices in May 2019. This program has boosted our company’s website traffic by as much as 25%. If you’re interested in learning more about my experience and accomplishments within the company, I encourage you to reach out to my supervisor , Edwin James ([email protected]). I have worked closely with Mr. James over the course of the last two years, and he would be glad to answer any questions that you might have about my suitability for the Content Strategist role. Thank you very much for your time and for the opportunity to be considered for this position. It’s been a great privilege working with Swarts amp; Sons, and I look forward to continuing to grow within the company. Sincerely, Andy Axelrod

Cover letter for an internal position or promotion template

Here is a template to help you get started on your cover letter. Be sure you tailor it to your specific needs before sending it to your hiring manager or recuiter.

August 10, 2023 Dear, Mr. Smith, I am writing to express my strong interest in the [position name] within [department name], as advertised on the company’s internal job posting. Having been part of the [current department name] team for [years on the team], I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute my skills to a new role that aligns closely with my career aspirations and the goals of the company. Throughout my time with [company name], I have consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the company’s success, such as [mention specific achievements, projects, or initiatives you’ve been involved with]. In my current position as [current position title], I have developed a foundation in [mention specific skills, responsibilities, or accomplishments], which I believe puts me in a position for success in [position you’re applying for]. I am particularly excited about [mention specific aspects that intrigue you]. This opportunity aligns perfectly with my long-term career goals, and I am eager to contribute to [department name]’s success. Thank you for your consideration. I welcome the chance to discuss how my experience and enthusiasm align with [position name] in more detail at [your contact information]. Please find my resume attached for your review. Sincerely, [your name]

Tips for writing a promotion or internal cover letter

You should never assume that you will get the position just because you have experience within the company. You should also stick to a professional format when writing your letter. Here are some more tips to keep in mind when writing your cover letter for a promotion or an internal position:

Don’t assume. Don’t expect that you’ll be chosen solely on the basis of the fact that you have experience within the company you’re applying to. If you’re keenly interested in a job opening, there’s a very good chance that a large number of other internal (as well as external) applicants are too. Make the effort to put your best foot forward with a polished application and cover letter.

Be truthfully self-promoting. By drafting and submitting a high-quality cover letter, you have a golden opportunity to communicate the specific reasons why you’re the ideal candidate for the role in a way that doesn’t sound braggy. Talk about your skills and accomplishments without stretching the truth but also without being self-deprecatingly modest.

Don’t take your cover letter lightly. In many cases, it (along with resumes ) will be a key factor in a hiring manager’s decision regarding which applicants are qualified to advance to the interview stage .

Stick to a classic, professional format. Adhering closely to a tried-and-true cover letter template (like the one we’ve outlined above) will help you to create a cover letter that will grab the eye of any hiring manager without making them work too hard to figure out how your letter is laid out.

Remember brevity is important. Hiring managers and HR employees tend to be very busy people, and it’s one of their job requirements to review dozens (and sometimes hundreds) of job requirements.

Don’t lie. You should never lie on your cover letter or resume, but this is especially important for a cover letter for an internal position or promotion.

How an internal cover letter differs from a standard cover letter

Now, it’s important to understand from the outset that the process of drafting a cover letter for an internal position or promotion will differ in some important respects from that of a cover letter that’s submitted by an external applicant.

Cover letter for internal position. In the case of a cover letter for an internal position or promotion, the hiring manager will very likely already be (at least somewhat) familiar with the applicant’s background and experience, which makes it very important for the applicant to record details as truthfully as possible.

Standard cover letter. In the latter case, an employer will be largely unfamiliar with the applicant’s professional profile, so there’s always the chance that the applicant might risk exaggerating (or fabricating) some of the information that’s included. This leads to an understandable wariness in the minds of many hiring managers when they’re reviewing the qualifications of an external candidate.

It’s also important to bear in mind that internal applicants have some significant advantages over external applicants in the review and hiring process. As an internal applicant, you’ll be able to:

Draw on specific contributions that you’ve already made to the company

Include references who are (ideally) trusted acquaintances of the hiring manager

Understand what the company values and use that to your advantage

These factors make it much more likely that your application will be favored – and ultimately selected – during the hiring process.

Cover letter for internal position FAQ

Do you write a cover letter for an internal position?

Yes, you should write a cover letter when applying for an internal position. Writing a well-crafted cover letter helps distinguish you as a strong candidate for promotion among your competition and allows you to formally apply for the position.

How do I write a cover letter for a promotion?

When writing a cover letter for a promotion, be sure to explain your interest in the job and what your qualifications are for the position. Although your hiring manager may already know your accomplishments and experience, it’s a good idea to reiterate them all in one document to demonstrate your readiness for a new position.

Additionally, you should include your knowledge of the company’s mission, needs, and the growth you have experienced in your current position thus far.

Including these things reminds your employer that you have a history with the company, that you have directly contributed to its success, and that you are invested in its mission and goals.

Craft your cover letter for promotion exactly as you would a regular cover letter, but be sure to add the prior mentioned specifics to demonstrate the value of promoting an internal employee versus hiring an outside candidate.

The first paragraph should begin with a statement of interest regarding the position. Here you can summarize your career goals and any stand-out qualifications or accomplishments.

Your second paragraph should discuss your qualifications and experience in more detail by including figures and data when possible.

Your third paragraph should expand on your improvements in your current job since joining the company. Be sure to tie these to the open position at hand.

Your final paragraph should remind the hiring manager of your interest and include the next step in the hiring process. Don’t forget to express your gratitude before signing off with a formal closing.

How do you start a promotion cover letter?

Start your promotion cover letter by saying, “I would like to formally apply for the [job title] position in the [department].

When you send a cover letter internally, it’s assumed you have discussed the position at hand with your current or new hiring manager.

They may anticipate you applying, so it’s a great idea to articulate that this is simply your formal application when crafting your cover letter.

How long should your cover letter be for an internal position?

Your cover letter should only be one page for an internal position. You should only include the necessary details that pertain to the position that you are applying to. Your cover letter should be one page single-spaced.

Is a cover letter for a promotion necessary?

Yes, a cover letter for a promotion is necessary if the job requires one. You should never assume that you are going to get a promotion just because you work for the company. You should write your cover letter the same way you would if you were applying as an outside candidate. Make sure you are professional in your letter. Just because you work with the hiring manager doesn’t mean you can slack off.

Harvard University – Resumes and Cover Letters

Broad Institute – Cover Letter for a Job

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Kate is a graduate of Brigham Young University, where she completed a degree in Comparative Literature with a minor in Mathematics. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and enjoys hiking and reading.

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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