Land the job with cover letter templates
Show hiring managers why you're the perfect job candidate with professional, customizable cover letter templates. find the perfect cover letter template for any industry or career path..
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Stand out from other job applicants with free, professional cover letter templates. Cover letters are a perfect complement to your resume and provide an effective opportunity to show your personality and enthusiasm for a position. Focus on writing a compelling cover letter and let a professionally designed template do the rest.
These free cover letter templates are perfect for any stage of your career, whether you're looking to land an internship or your dream job. If you're applying for a corporate position, you may want to opt for a simple cover letter template. There are a variety of other cover letter designs available, from basic cover letter templates to creative cover letter templates.
Each of these cover letter templates is customizable in Word , so you can add your own text, change design elements, and more. Print out your cover letter or download it for free to use for online job applications. Once you've customized the perfect cover letter, explore resume templates that will match your cover letter design, or download free business cards for your next networking event.
How to Create a Compelling Cover Letter in Microsoft Word
E very time you apply for a job, it's a good idea to include a cover letter. Deciding how to write each one is hard, but at least you don’t have to start from scratch with their design.
Microsoft Word offers templates and welcomes third-party designs to help you create compelling cover letters. Here’s how to use such options in Word and make the best first impression possible to potential employers.
Use Microsoft Word’s Cover Letter Templates
Formal letters don’t have to be bland. Go to File > More templates on Word, and type “cover letter” in the search box. You’ll find several stylish designs that add structure and color to your document.
What reflects you better, a subtle or sharp color scheme? If you’re considering a bold header for your professional details, learn how to design letterheads on Word , too. You can even add your portrait to your cover letter.
Microsoft Word’s built-in templates also include fields for you to fill in with your information and that of your potential employer. They guide you in these small ways, some even providing a sample for your letter’s main body. It’s a good idea to rephrase that, though, to fit each job application.
If you don’t like any of the options on Word’s desktop app, explore more Microsoft cover letter templates online and download your favorites from there.
Use Third-Party Templates in Microsoft Word
You can create cover letters for your dream job on platforms besides Microsoft. If you’d rather stick with it, you’ll even come across third-party templates specifically designed for you to download and customize on Word. Here are some examples.
1. ResumeLab
Explore over 50 cover letter templates, ranging from minimalist to eye-catching designs. Keep in mind that a few of them are meant to be created on ResumeLab. The rest you can bring onto Word by clicking their Download it free here link.
You’ll be redirected to websites like Good Resume and Resume Genius , which help you quickly download your documents. Then, all you have to do is open them in Microsoft Word.
You’ll also notice that some cover letters on ResumeLab are edited versions of Word’s built-in templates, but this just adds to your selection and gives you more ideas.
2. Template.net
This is a popular site for templates of all kinds, including cover letters. For some designs, you pay a small fee, but Template.net has an impressive range of free options, too. What’s more, the download process is very easy.
Just browse its collection, click on a design you like, and select the Word button under Download Free Template . In the next window, hit Free Download . If you’re not signed in already, you’ll be asked to as the final step.
Follow Best Practices for Cover Letters
Familiarize yourself with the dos and don’ts of writing a cover letter . Remember these guidelines when selecting and customizing a template or crafting a cover letter from scratch. They boil down to the following rules.
1. Research Potential Employers
Do your research before writing or designing your cover letter. Get to know each company and even the recruiter you’re addressing. It’s the same strategy as tailoring your resume for different job types .
2. Tailor Your Cover Letter
When showcasing your skills and interest in a position, use your research to tailor your letter so that it grabs the recruiter’s attention and impresses them. Be smart, enthusiastic, and concise with your words.
3. Use Your Blank Space Wisely
Aim to limit your cover letter to one page. Any more than that, and you risk losing the recruiter’s interest. Think about what you need to say, including important and relevant details not covered in your resume. Express these things as succinctly as possible.
4. Your Visuals Should Complement and Not Overwhelm the Letter
Add a bit of color and texture, going for a subtle effect. You could even use some small icons, as long as they’re tasteful and discreet. Whatever you choose, keep these visuals on the letter’s edges, and don’t let them dominate the text.
5. Master Word’s Features That Benefit Cover Letters
For example, you can create your cover letter more efficiently by setting the text’s boundaries from the get-go. To do this, go to Layout > Margins . From the same toolbar, you can adjust paragraph spacing and indentation.
Through Insert > Pictures , you can import an image of your signature and place it at the end of the letter. Your header and footer can be customized from here, too.
Even the Mailing toolbar might be of interest. It can help streamline the process of writing and sending letters, as well as keeping track of recipients.
Good Planning and Wording Make the Best Cover Letters
Between Microsoft and other providers, you have access to a wide selection of templates for simple but attractive cover letters that you can personalize on Word. The app itself is full of useful writing and editing tools.
With this leg up, designing a cover letter for every occasion is easier. Sound research and planning in terms of how to approach each application can help polish the letter even more.
What is a Cover Letter? Definition, Structure, Purpose, Types & Meaning
What is a cover letter?
What is the purpose of a cover letter in a job application, what to include in a cover letter, cover letter format and layout, should you use a cover letter template or example, what is a cover letter - takeaways.
Asking yourself, “What is a cover letter?”
In this article, we break down for you the basics about cover letters, their purpose, and what to include in yours.
When you’re applying for a job, a cover letter is just as important as your resume in a lot of ways. You always want to include a cover letter when you’re submitting your resume, to personalize the facts about your work history and to tailor your application to the job.
But if you haven’t written a cover letter before, it can be intimidating to figure out what to include. Don’t worry, this expert guide boils it all down into a quick read that gives you an overview and points you in the right direction to find everything you need to know about them.
In this post, we’re going to cover:
- What is a Cover Letter?
- What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter in a Job Application?
- What to Include in A Cover Letter
We also describe how you can lay out your cover letter to amp its impact, and we’ve even made it dead simple for you by including some perfect cover letter examples for you to check out.
A cover letter is a one-page document that you include with your resume as part of your application for a job. A good cover letter grabs a Hiring Manager’s attention and gets you to the next step of the hiring process.
While every job you apply for will have either a specific application form or will ask for a resume, not every one will ask for a cover letter. But you should always include one – it’s a game changer.
The upshot is that a resume is a summary of your work and education experience, while your cover letter adds relevant context to that experience for the specific job.
A cover letter is tailored to a specific job you’re applying for, and it highlights what your qualifications are and how they relate to that role and company. You can use it to give examples of how your experiences relate to the role and show how you’re the best person for the job.
Just as its name implies, a cover letter is written in a letter format, including a greeting, three or four body paragraphs, and a closing. Unlike a resume, your cover letter should be written in full sentences, and you want to use the first-person – “I’m writing to you today to…”.
You don’t want to just rhyme off the same things that are in your resume, though. Use your cover letter to give real life examples of how your experience, skills, or interests make you perfect for the job.
Head to our full article on the differences between a resume and a cover letter to learn more on this.
Put simply, it’s your chance to make a great first impression. It’s a tool you use to grab a hiring manager’s attention long enough that they look over your resume a bit closer and call you in for an interview.
A cover letter may not be something a job posting asks you to include, but don’t think that means you shouldn’t. A good cover letter is always a good idea, here’s why:
- You can tell a story in a cover letter that dives deeper into your qualifications,
- experience, and interests to show why you’re the best candidate for the job.
- A lot of candidates skip writing a cover letter, so by including one you immediately put yourself ahead of the competition!
- You can introduce yourself in a more personalized way and tailor your application specifically for the job.
- You can add a bit of flair or personality that gets a hiring manager to ask you in for an interview
- It shows that you put effort into your application, which again, puts you ahead of most of the competition.
This is just a snapshot of how a cover letter can help you. We’ve got a great article for you to look over if you want to know more about the purpose of a cover letter .
Should you send a cover letter for a job?
There is no question, yes, you should absolutely include a cover letter with your application.
We’ve done our homework on this and can tell you: a majority of hiring managers need or expect a cover letter, even if it’s not specified in the job posting.
Not only are they expected, but they’re a great tool for you too:
- Explain the reasons for any work gaps
- Clarify how the experience you have from other jobs applies
- Show how you fit their company culture
- Let them know why you’re changing jobs or fields
So, while a cover letter may not absolutely be necessary, they’re extremely useful, and always something you should take the time to write and include with your application.
Cover letters should usually include some of the same basic elements. We’ve put together a quick list below, but head over to our complete guide on what to include in your cover letter for a full explanation.
- A header – This is where you’re going to include all the contact info the hiring manager is going to expect to see. You want to be sure to give them what theyère looking for.
- Opening statement – You can get right to it here and make sure this is an attention grabber. Summarize your skills or experience and give them one good reason why it’s important for the job you’re applying to.
- Body – This paragraph should give some more details about you personally. Employers often hire someone for who they are, not what they know; this is your time to show them you’d be a great fit on their team.
- Closing and Call to Action – You want to close your cover letter with a thanks for the time they’ve taken and a professional sign-off. You should also let them know you’re eager to hear from them, and let them know to contact you to follow up.
Try to end with a great impression. It’s key that you know how to close your cover letter well to hit all the right notes.
A hiring manager takes about 7.4 seconds to look at each resume that comes across their desk, and there may be hundreds of those. A strong cover letter design can grab their attention long enough for them to set you into the callback pile instead of in the recycling bin.
We’ve put together the details on how you can really grab a recruiter’s attention with your cover letter design , but here’s the basics:
- Font - Always use a standard, easy-to-read font like Times New Roman or Arial. It should be 12pt or slightly bigger.
- Heading – Always use a professional format of heading, which includes your name and contact info, the date of writing, and the contact info for the person you’re writing to.
- Spacing – You want to single space the body of your cover letter, but leave spaces between the heading, the greeting, each paragraph, and your sign-off.
- Length – We know that it’s tempting to try to fit in as much as possible in the cover letter, but this is definitely a case of less is more. You want the content to be about half a page, so shoot for between 250-400 words.
Keeping your cover letter lean can be hard the first few times you write one. Check out our article on ideal cover letter length to get more tips on how to hit the sweet spot.
If you’re already a pro, maybe you can go it on your own and write a killer cover letter. But if this is your first cover letter, or you have any doubts, use our Cover Letter Examples to get some great ideas on how to write and format yours – we’ve got a few samples below.
Our examples cover different industries and positions, so you can fine tune the fit of your letter for exactly the job you’re applying to without trying to reinvent the wheel! Plus, these are cover letters that work to get interviews, so you can be sure you’ve got a great start.
If you want a real head start, we’ve even got a Cover Letter Templates page where you can head to get all the basics covered for you. Head there, input your specifics, and you’ll have a winning cover letter, easy-peasy.
- A cover letter is a one-pager you include with a job application to dive deeper into exactly why you are the best fit for the job.
- You always want to include a cover letter, even if it’s not specified in the job posting.
- Hiring managers get hundreds of resumes, and they fly through them - your cover letter can and should be designed to grab their attention.
- Personalize your cover letter and tailor it to the specific job you’re sending it in to, this includes relating specific skills, letting your personality shine, and getting the hiring manager’s name.
- Make sure it’s in perfect shape to get great results. Use our Cover Letter Checklist to make sure you’ve covered all the bases and haven’t overlooked any little mistakes that could cost you the job.
- Cover Letter Guides
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What Is a Cover Letter?
Understanding cover letters, types of cover letters, how to write a cover letter, tips for writing a cover letter.
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What Is a Cover Letter? Types and How To Write One
A cover letter is a written document commonly submitted with a job application outlining the applicant's credentials and interest in the open position. Since a cover letter is often one of only two documents sent to a potential employer, a well- or poorly-written letter can impact whether the applicant is called for an interview .
Key Takeaways
- A cover letter is commonly submitted with a job application explaining the applicant's credentials and interest in the position.
- A good cover letter complements the resume and explains why the candidate is the ideal person for the job.
- Common cover letter mistakes can sink a job applicant.
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Most job postings are done online and no longer require a physical application. Instead, applicants send companies a copy of their resume along with a cover letter either by email or with a hard copy through the mail. A resume offers a glimpse into the professional and academic experience of a potential employee. The cover letter, on the other hand, acts as an introduction written by the candidate to express their interest in the position and what makes them the best fit for the job.
A good cover letter complements a resume by expanding on items relevant to the job. In essence, it's a sales pitch that describes why the applicant is the best person for the position. Career experts advise job seekers to spend time customizing each cover letter for the particular position, rather than using a generic missive. Although this requires extra effort, it can be very helpful in allowing an applicant to stand out above the competition.
The cover letter provides information to the employer about who the candidate is as a professional and as a person. This includes their areas of interest, professional goals, knowledge, skills they've gained over the years, achievements, passions, and aspirations. The cover letter should be a one-page document that provides a clear and concise idea about why the candidate is the best person for the job . It should also highlight the cultural fit.
While there is no set template for a cover letter, the type of letter that you write will depend on the requirements of each individual company or employer. The information that is included in a cover letter will vary depending on the goals and purpose of your application.
- An application cover letter is the most familiar type of cover letter. This is generally written in response to a vacancy that is posted on a company's website or a job board. In addition to answering any specific questions posted in the job ad, it may also highlight any experience or skills that are suitable for the position.
- A referral cover letter is similar to an application letter, but it includes the name of a colleague or employee who recommended the applicant for the open position. A strong referral can help you stand out against other applicants.
- A prospecting cover letter , also known as a letter of interest, is written by a job seeker and addressed to a company where they would like to work. However, it is not aimed at a specific role or vacancy. Instead, this type of letter inquires about open positions in general and may highlight any special skills that make the writer suitable for the company.
When employers post a job ad that requires a cover letter, they may specify certain requirements for the cover letter to address. For example, they may require applicants to answer certain questions, or to respect a certain word limit. It is important to follow these requirements, as they reflect on the applicant's ability to understand and follow directions.
If the employer does not set any expectations, a typical cover letter should be about a page or less, and may include a formal greeting, contact information, and links to the applicant's portfolio or work. It should highlight any special skills, and explain why you would be a good fit for the position. This is your chance to impress the employer: Even if your resume does not have everything an employer wants, a well-written cover letter can make the applicant stand out from the crowd.
However, it is possible to include too much information. Most employers will simply glance at the majority of their cover letters, and a long-winded essay might end up at the bottom of the pile. A few short paragraphs explaining your skills, and why you chose that specific employer, should be enough to put your best foot forward.
Writing a cover letter doesn't have to be tedious—even though it may seem like it's a chore. Here are a few simple tips you may want to consider when composing your cover letter:
- Personalize your letter for each role. Never use a generic cover letter. This means you have to write a new one for each position. Be sure to include your strengths and skills, and explain why you’re the perfect candidate.
- Include contact information. If the posting doesn't include the hiring manager's name, call the company , or check its website. Including this person's name gives your letter a proper greeting and also shows you have initiative. And don't forget to add your contact information, too. This is important if your resume gets separated from your cover letter.
- Simplify your letter. Communicate clearly and concisely. Using complex words and sentences would most certainly fail to convey your intentions with the company and the person reading the letter probably won't bother with the rest of your application.
- Be specific when needed. Don't rehash your resume, so be sure to quantify your accomplishments. For instance, expand on your marketing experience in your cover letter by saying you brought in 200 additional clients each month and increased revenue to $10,000. This can set you apart from candidates with vague personal details.
- Proofread. After you’ve written the letter, go over it a few times to ensure there are no errors. Then ask someone else to do a once-over and recommend any changes you may need to make.
A simple, focused cover letter without any typos or grammatical errors will get you noticed by potential employers.
A perfect resume can often be sabotaged by a poorly thought-out cover letter or one that is laden with mistakes. Whether you include the letter as per required submission guidelines, or you simply want to emphasize your interest in the job, make sure you avoid making these blunders.
- Names matter. This includes the name of the hiring manager, the company, and yes, even yours. Make sure you have the right names and the correct spelling. And don't forget to change the names if you're using the same cover letter for multiple jobs.
- Restating your resume. Since the cover letter is used to identify your skills and explain how your previous experience is applicable to the desired position, don't restate the stuff on your resume. Remember, the cover letter should complement your resume, not just summarize it.
- Keep your letter tight. Recruiters often go through hundreds of applications and don't have time to read through a three-page missive. The absolute maximum length for a cover letter should be one page, with a few concise paragraphs.
- Omit unnecessary details. Stay on topic. There's no need to mention your graphic-design skills if you're applying for an accounting position. It's a good idea to leave out personal things like your IQ, recreational accomplishments, interests, and hobbies. That is unless they relate to the job or company.
- Avoid sounding arrogant. Ensure your cover letter does not make you appear arrogant . While the cover letter is about you and your accomplishments, find a way of saying "I'm the best" without actually saying it. Avoid overusing words like "I," "me," or "my."
- Remember that spelling counts. Typos and grammatical errors can show you didn't bother to proofread your own letter. And make sure to be consistent—don't convey a dash with "--" in one place and "—" in another.
- Design matters : with the proliferation of publishing, design trends, and software, candidates have become creative in making their cover letter stand out from a design perspective. Make sure your cover letter projects your personality in terms of design while remaining professional. That is personal signature and branding.
How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?
According to Indeed , a leading job-seeking site, a typical cover letter should be about three or four paragraphs long and highlight any special experience or achievements that make the applicant exceptionally well-suited to the position.
How Do You Start a Cover Letter?
A cover letter should start with a formal greeting, preferably addressed to the hiring manager. If you do not know who will be reading your cover letter, a generic "to whom it may concern" is an acceptable, albeit old-fashioned, way to address a cover letter. It is also acceptable to address the letter to a title, such as "Dear Hiring Manager," or "Dear Talent Acquisition Team."
What Should a Cover Letter Contain?
An effective cover letter should highlight the applicant's skills, experience, and any achievements that make them a good fit for their prospective employer. It is also a good chance to mention anything that is not included in the resume: For example, if an applicant is drawn to a certain employer because they love a certain product, the cover letter is a great place to mention it. Make sure your cover letter also includes your name and contact information.
In a competitive jobs market, an effective cover letter is one way to make a job application stand out. This is a chance for an applicant to demonstrate why they think they would be a good fit. However, a poorly-written or meandering cover letter can hurt an application more than it helps.
Harvard Extension School. " Resources and Cover Letters: An Extension School Resource ," Pages 3 and 5.
Harvard Extension School. " Resources and Cover Letters: An Extension School Resource ," Page 5.
Jobscan. " Cover Letter Formats ."
Indeed. " What Is a Cover Letter? "
Indeed. " How to Address a Cover Letter (With Examples). "
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The Ultimate Cover Letter Writing Guide
The complete guide to writing an effective cover letter.
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Any of these sound familiar? The simple answer is yes, having an effective cover letter is completely necessary and highly recommended and we’ll tell you why you need a cover letter as well as a resume!
When you’re applying for a job, whether it be for an entry-level position after graduating or for a high-level executive vacancy with a professional resume , a cover letter is essential to make your application stand out .
Without this extra introductory letter, a resume alone could easily be discarded by a hiring manager. CareerBuilder estimates you’re 10% more likely to miss out on an opening if you don’t include a cover letter.
Writing a good cover letter it’s not a skill many many people master, but that doesn’t mean it’s an impossible feat!
With our complete cover letter guide , you’ll learn how to write a cover letter that will attract the hiring manager and convince them to read your winning resume.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is an extension to your job application. It is not obligatory but including a well-written cover letter is strongly advised by all human resource experts . By definition, a cover letter is an accompanying, explanatory letter.
All jobseekers need a sales pitch of sorts, they need to hook the reader and demonstrate to the hiring manager why they are the right person for the vacancy on offer. This style of self-marketing for a job application must come in the form of a winning resume and cover letter combination that complement one another.
A simple cover letter is an introduction to the candidate behind the qualifications and experience. The aim is to show a prospective employer how you can take on the role and what you can offer the company in question.
Cover letters generally follow a basic structure and can be in either hard or digital format, that is to say, either printed and sent via regular mail or as a document scanned and attached to send digitally, or written directly in an email cover letter .
Why include a cover letter on a job application?
If you want to stand any chance at all of catching the eye of a potential employer , it is imperative to include a cover letter with your job application.
Simple – even if you create an effective, outstanding resume , using all the right keywords and qualifications etc. it’s possible there are candidates more qualified than you or with more experience so it’s necessary to add a cover letter to back up your resume and allow the hiring manager to see more of your personal side that is relevant to the vacancy.
- The cover letter demonstrates your communication skills.
- The cover letter serves as an introduction to the resume.
- The cover letter can be used to emphasize certain skills, or mention skills that you couldn’t fit on the resume (it serves as an addendum).
- The cover letter is what you customize for each position, to show why you are the right person for “That” role, as opposed to the resume which stays pretty much the same for all applications.
A cover letter is the added value that you need in a job application to ensure the call-back you’ve been waiting for.
To create a unique, tailor-made job application , each candidate should use a cover letter to highlight their strengths and elaborate on relevant achievements that demonstrate their ability to take on the new responsibilities.
Is it practically always sensible and appropriate to write a cover letter to accompany a resume for a job application that should be customized for the role you’re applying to including any explanations of information that might be missing from the resume, such as employment gaps, traveling, periods of study etc.
The only time it is acceptable to not include a cover letter in your job application is if the job listing specifically requests that you do not.
Advantages of Writing a Cover Letter
A cover letter directly adds to the likelihood that you are called in for an interview and gives you a better chance of being hired .
If you’re successful in writing an effective cover letter , it will offer you the following advantages:
- Hiring managers will see your added effort
- Demonstrates you put in the time to learn about the company
- It will add a personal touch to your application
- It shows your enthusiasm for the opening
- Hiring managers will become acquainted with your best qualities
Knowing exactly what is in a cover letter will ensure that it gives you a major advantage over the other applicants.
What are the 3 Types of Cover Letters?
Adding a cover letter is almost always essential, but choosing the appropriate letter will also be key. Depending on the job post you are applying for, you will need to select the best type of letter to send along with your resume.
There are 3 types of cover letters that you can send to a hiring manager. The 3 types are:
- Application cover letters
- Letters of Interest
- Email Cover letters
The letter you write is influenced by whether you are going to apply for a job directly , citing a referral, or asking about vacancies that are not advertised.
Whatever the case may be, ensure that the cover letter is specific to the job vacancy . It’s always important to avoid making a generic cover letter for every single job you apply for.
So, what are the 3 types of cover letters you should consider sending to a job recruiter?
Application Cover Letter
This is your classic cover letter that you send to a hiring manager when you spot a company advertising a job opening. When you want to directly apply for a position, it is mandatory to send this, unless you are specifically asked not to.
Using this letter, you can mention why you want to work for a specific company and why you are the perfect candidate for the position.
Letter of Interest
Say you notice a company that you would really like to work for. It fits your sector, and you know it offers great benefits and good pay. However, you can’t find any openings that match your skill set.
If that’s the case, you don’t need to sit around and wait for the company to have a job vacancy. You can take action with a letter of interest. This type of cover letter states your interest in being employed by a company that isn’t currently advertising any vacancies.
This type of letter goes by a couple of other names, such as:
- Letter of intent
- Statement of interest
Of course, since there is no vacancy there is no role you can specifically mention, which is the major difference between a letter of intent and a traditional cover letter. Your objective will be to advertise yourself well enough that an employer will just have to interview you.
Email Cover Letters
Over the years, the job application process has shifted to a nearly 100% online hiring process . Due to this, it may be necessary to send your cover letter in an email as part of your job application.
While applying, there may not be an option to upload your cover letter. Or maybe you would just like to send it in the body of your email along with your resume . You can send it in one of two ways, in the body of your email or as an attachment (in PDF).
How to write a cover letter
A cover letter, although short in length generally, can take time to elaborate as it is important to get it right. Sometimes, due to the scarce space for writing, candidates find it difficult to know what to include in a cover letter and what to leave out .
However, knowing how to do a cover letter can make all the difference to your job application and be the just the thing to capture the attention of a hiring manager.
A professional cover letter should be well-formatted, following a structure with a header, an opening paragraph, a second main paragraph, a final closing paragraph and a closing with signature/electronic signature.
To begin writing a cover letter for a job application , candidates should analyze their skills, qualifications, accomplishments and experience to decide which are the most fundamental aspects to include in their personalized cover letter.
Next, each jobseeker will have to select the most job-relevant of these elements to include by comparing them with the required or desired qualifications and experience in the job description.
Finally, the applicant should choose some memorable examples which demonstrate evidence of each element included in their cover letter, aiming to tell a story which shows their aptitude concerning each skill or qualification.
Jobseekers should also ensure to explore how to make a cover letter for their specific role or industry because, similarly to resumes, each cover letter should be tailored for the vacancy and company to which it will be sent.
It is vital for candidates to consider several factors when it comes to writing their professional cover letter . A jobseeker must review their resume work history section as well as any skills and honors included to find the most pertinent experiences that can be explored further. Detailing examples of when a candidate demonstrated certain abilities or expertise is how a candidate can convince a hiring.
One way to create a winning cover letter is to use an online cover letter creator or take advantage of cover letter templates as a stepping stone as well as checking out cover letter examples that can serve as a great source of inspiration for you to make your own unique cover letter .
Our cover letter builder forms part of our resume builder and allows jobseekers to create a more complete job application. Users can write their cover letter with pro tips and design help thanks to our pre-designed templates. Read our cover letter writing guide to get to grips with cover letter writing techniques and tips before using our online cover letter builder!
How to Structure a Cover Letter
The structure and layout of a cover letter is essential to make sure the letter displays each point that you wish to get across clearly and concisely . This means it’s necessary, in general, to follow a commonly-accepted format for an effective cover letter.
Similarly to a resume format , designing and writing a cover letter has certain rules which should be adhered to in order to convey the necessary information in a brief and to the point introductory letter.
Check out some of the cover letter best practices as advised by human resources experts below:
- It’s imperative to begin a cover letter with a header , including the candidate’s name and contact information as well as the date. This primary cover letter section can also include the job title, website and other relevant personal information.
Following this, the letter should include the details of the company and person to whom you are writing, with the full name, job title or team, company name and address.
- The main body of a cover letter should be divided into three sections : an introduction, a bullet list of accomplishments followed by a paragraph highlighting skills, and a closing paragraph inviting the hiring manager to contact you. By using bullet points when detailing your achievements and capabilities, you can make sure that recruiters will be able to quickly pick out key information. This is especially important as studies have found that recruiters spend very little time reading each individual application.
- Finally, the letter should be electronically or physically signed with your full name in a formal manner.
The universally-accepted cover letter length is no longer than one letter page, which in total has about 250-300 words for the main body of text.
Don’t repeat information or be too detailed because hiring managers simply do not have the time to read it all and will simply skip to the next one. Resumes that run over 600 words get rejected 43% faster and cover letters can easily fall into this trap too.
Keep your cover letter short and sweet and to the point!
Get more cover letter formatting advice in our guide on how to format a cover letter with tips and information about all aspects of a good cover letter structure.
Cover letter advice
The importance of including a cover letter with your job application is often overlooked by jobseekers of all categories, however this can seriously reduce your possibilities of getting an interview with a prospective employer.
Therefore you need not ask yourself when to write a cover letter because the answer is just that simple – it is always appropriate to include a cover letter in your job application , unless the listing explicitly requests that you do not.
Check out the following expert cover letter tips to create a winning cover letter that will convince the hiring manager to give you a call:
- We may be quite repetitive with this one but the sheer quantity of resumes and cover letters that are disregarded simply for forgetting this vital and basic rule is incredible: USE A PROFESSIONAL EMAIL ADDRESS for your contact details and that does not include your current work email but a personal, suitable email address.
- It is essential to remember to maintain your focus on the needs of the company you’re applying to and the requirements and desired abilities of the ideal candidate for the role. Do not focus on how you can benefit by becoming a member of their team, but on how the team can make the most of your experience and knowledge.
- Remember to highlight your transferable skills , especially in cases where you may not meet all the required qualities in the job description such as in student resumes and cover letters.
- Each cover letter for a job application, cover letters for internships , for further study or even volunteer experience should be tailored to their specific organization and position with the pertinent keywords.
- Use specific examples to demonstrate the candidate’s individual capacity to take on the role and tell a story with your cover letter to convey more of your personality and passion towards the sector or profession.
- Towards the end of a cover letter , each candidate should write a convincing finish to entice the hiring manager and in sales terminology “ seal the deal ”.
- Finally when you have completed your polished cover letter, potentially one of the most important steps in the process is to PROOFREAD . Candidates should request that a friend, mentor, teacher or peer takes a look at their cover letter for not only grammatical and spelling errors but also any unwanted repetition or unrelated information .
Some jobseekers doubt whether a cover letter is necessary or not , but as most human resource professionals agree without a well-written cover letter, candidates lose the possibility to demonstrate different aspects of their profile from those included in their resumes which could easily be the deciding factor in your application!
An easy and fast way to write an effective cover letter for a job application is to employ an online cover letter creator that will offer advice on how to complete a cover letter with examples and HR-approved templates.
Cover Letter FAQs
What do employers look for in a cover letter, can a cover letter be two pages, what is the difference between a cover letter and a resume, should you put a photo on a cover letter.
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Use a template to create a resume
If you need help creating a resume or cover letter, start with one of the dozens of professionally-designed resume and cover letter templates that are available in Word.
Go to File > New .
In the search box, type Resume or Cover Letter.
Double-click the template you want to use.
Replace the placeholder text with your own information.
On the File menu, select New from Template .
Create and use your own template in Office for Mac
Making a resume like this while you're online is quick and easy.
Note: This template comes with a cover letter, so you'll have everything in one document.
Choose one of our resume templates , and open it in Word for the web to make it yours.
As you work on the resume, you'll probably want to rename it.
The template uses a table to line everything up. If you need to add more lines for job experience or education, add rows to the table by going up to Layout under Table Tools and clicking Insert Below (or Insert Above) .
For tips on writing your resume, check out Six steps to developing a great resume .
When you're finished, print it out or share it online. You can do this with the resume still open in Word for the web. No need to save it first (that's already done for you).
To print it, press Ctrl+P, and wait for the Print dialog box.
Note: If you don't see a Print dialog box, click the link for opening a PDF version of your resume. From there, use the PDF program's Print command.
To share it online, send a link:
Near the top of the screen, click Share .
Under Share , click Get a Link .
Under Choose an option , click View only .
Click Create Link .
Click on the web address to select it, and then copy and paste it into an email, message, or post.
Tip: If you have a blog or website, you can embed a view of your resume there.
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Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Writing > Using ChatGPT to write resumes and cover letters
Using ChatGPT to write resumes and cover letters
Job hunting can feel like a job of its own, which is why some are using ChatGPT to write resumes and cover letters. Learn how AI can make the process of creating these documents easier as well as its limitations.
ChatGPT has become a popular choice for all kinds of content creation . Here’s what you need to know about using ChatGPT for your resume or cover letter.
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Should I use AI in my job search?
The process of searching for a new job is rarely easy. Not only are you constantly checking job boards to find positions that both interest you and fit your skillset, but you’re also updating your resume and cover letter with every new application and editing these documents to suit each potential employer.
Using AI like ChatGPT for your job search can help you if you’re truly stumped for how to express your thoughts. Of course, it isn’t foolproof, either. Because this technology is so new, its output won’t be entirely accurate, and is no substitution for putting in the work yourself. The AI does the best it can with the information it’s given, which means it’s up to the job seeker to be both specific and accurate when inputting prompts, and to make any necessary adjustments to achieve a specific result.
If you plan to use ChatGPT for resume writing or crafting a cover letter, make sure you have a solid understanding of how to write both documents. After all, they’re a potential employer’s first impression of you; if you’re not well-represented because you relied on AI instead of your own skills, you’re not likely to get the job. ChatGPT can be useful for helping you come up with new ways to talk about your relevant skills and experience, but your personal touch is what will really make your resume and cover letter stand out.
Tips for writing a resume and cover letter
Whether you’re editing existing documents or starting from scratch, here are some tips to make sure that your resume and cover letter can help you make a good first impression.
- Use simple, professional formatting. Use a template to ensure that you’re delivering something that makes you look your best and is easy to read.
- Less is more. A busy resume can feel overwhelming for a recruiter. Show results where you can and leave off any unnecessary details.
- Proofread. Even if you’re using ChatGPT to help you with your job search, you’ll still need to look over the results to not only make sure that the content is accurate, but that it’s grammatically correct and sounds like you.
- Insert yourself. Make sure that your resume and cover letter are representative of you and not a chatbot. Your own personality should shine through, even if you’ve used AI to help you put things together.
At the end of the day, recruiters want to learn about you and whether you’re a good fit for a job. The best way for you share that information with them is with a well-written cover letter and a resume that’s easy to read .
What are the drawbacks of using ChatGPT to write a resume or cover letter?
Leveraging AI like ChatGPT to write your resume or cover letter does have a few pitfalls:
- This AI is very new technology and is certainly not foolproof. It’s constantly being tested and adjusted due to its newness.
- It may accidentally generate inaccurate statements due to its limited knowledge of the world after 2021.
- If you’re not proofreading carefully, you may gloss over some major errors. ChatGPT may generate content that is biased or harmful and it’s on you to catch those statements and not use them in your resume or cover letter. The AI may also repeat information between sections of a generated resume.
- The AI works with the information it’s given. The quality of the output depends entirely on the quality of the input.
- If you’re not specific enough when entering your prompts, you will get vague, generalized output. Similarly, if your prompt is poorly formatted, the AI may not understand what you’re asking for.
- ChatGPT may embellish some of your accomplishments. While it may be tempting to leave these in place, it’s never a good idea to lie about what you have and have not done.
This AI is not a replacement for doing the actual work yourself, but it can be a useful tool during the process of looking for a new job. Only you can truly know what you’ve achieved through your work and life experiences, and you’re the one who is best suited to crafting any type of resume or cover letter.
Entering resume and cover letter prompts into ChatGPT
The goal of using ChatGPT to write your resume or cover letter is to lessen the stress of creating these documents. But that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. You still must give the AI very clear instructions about what you want it to generate.
Prompts for using AI to write a resume
You can use AI to review an existing resume and provide feedback or tailor your resume to a specific posting. Make sure you ask very clear questions about what you’re looking for, as well as providing very clear guidance to the AI about what its role is. In both scenarios you’ll need to include your resume in its entirety, but if you’re looking for tailored edits, you should also include the job posting.
Prompts for these scenarios might look like:
- I am going to provide my resume and want you to act as a reviewer and provide feedback on it. How can I make it more readable? Are there any action verbs I should use? Am I using too many buzzwords?
- I will provide you with a job description for a position I am applying for. Understand the key points and requirements for this role and summarize them. Then review my resume and provide feedback on how to tailor it for this job.
These might seem overly specific but if you’re not specific enough, you won’t get the response you’re looking for.
Prompts for using AI to write a cover letter
When using ChatGPT to work on your cover letter for a specific job, you’ll need to provide:
- Your resume
- The job description of the role you’re interested in
- Information about what kind of tone you’d prefer
You can also ask the AI to review your cover letter for readability and help you get through a bout of writer’s block.
Prompts for these sorts of asks might look like:
- Write a cover letter for a [position] role at [Company] in a professional tone. Use my resume and the job description as a reference.
- I want you to review my cover letter for readability and relevance to a job post. I will share the job post as a reference. Tailor my cover letter for the job referenced in the post and adjust wording to make it more relevant.
These prompts may feel awkward to write, almost as though you’re explaining something to a small child. But the clearer and more specific you are, the more pleased you’re likely to be with the results.
While AI like ChatGPT is making some waves on the tech scene, it doesn’t totally replace human writing and editing skills, especially when it comes to resumes and cover letters. It certainly has value but comes with a few caveats. Use ChatGPT with caution, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for grammatical errors .
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4 Excel Expert Cover Letter Examples
Excel Experts are masters of data manipulation, transforming raw numbers into meaningful insights through complex formulas and pivot tables. Similarly, your cover letter is a tool to transform your raw skills and experiences into a compelling narrative that highlights your expertise and value. In this guide, we'll delve into the best cover letter examples for Excel Experts, showcasing how to translate your proficiency into a persuasive story.
Cover Letter Examples
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The best way to start an Excel Expert cover letter is by directly addressing the hiring manager and expressing your enthusiasm for the role. Begin by introducing yourself, stating your current role or experience, and explaining why you're interested in the position. For example, "Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], As an experienced Excel Expert with a proven track record in data analysis and process improvement, I was thrilled to see your job posting for an Excel Expert at [Company Name]." This approach immediately highlights your relevant skills and shows that you've done your research about the company.
Excel Experts should end their cover letter by summarizing their key skills and experiences that make them a perfect fit for the role. They should reiterate their enthusiasm for the position and the value they can bring to the company with their Excel expertise. It's also important to express a desire for further discussion in an interview. For example: "I am excited about the opportunity to bring my advanced Excel skills and data analysis experience to your team. I am confident that my ability to manage and interpret large data sets, create complex formulas, and design custom Excel solutions will be beneficial to your company. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further. Thank you for considering my application." Remember to end with a professional closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name.
An Excel Expert's cover letter should ideally be about one page long. This length is sufficient to clearly and concisely present your skills, experiences, and how they align with the job requirements. As an Excel Expert, your cover letter should focus on your proficiency in Excel, your ability to use it to solve complex problems, and any notable projects or achievements you've had using Excel. However, it's important not to overload the letter with too much information. Keep it concise, engaging, and relevant to the job you're applying for.
Writing a cover letter with no experience as an Excel Expert can seem challenging, but it's important to remember that everyone starts somewhere. Here's how you can approach it: 1. Start with a Strong Introduction: Begin your cover letter by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting and if you were referred by someone. 2. Highlight Relevant Skills: Even if you don't have direct experience as an Excel Expert, you may have relevant skills that can be applied to the role. For example, if you have strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, or experience with other data analysis software, be sure to mention these. 3. Showcase Your Excel Knowledge: You may not have professional experience, but if you've used Excel in school projects, online courses, or personal tasks, discuss this. Highlight any complex functions you're familiar with, such as pivot tables, VLOOKUP, macros, etc. If you've taken any Excel certification courses, be sure to mention them. 4. Emphasize Your Willingness to Learn: Employers value candidates who are eager to grow and learn. Express your enthusiasm for the role and your willingness to further develop your Excel skills. 5. Provide Examples: Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and abilities. For instance, if you used Excel to organize a project or analyze data in a previous role or during your studies, describe what you did and the outcome. 6. Close Strong: In your closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the role and your eagerness to contribute to the company. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your hope for further discussion in an interview. Remember, a cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression. Even without direct experience, showcasing your relevant skills, knowledge, and eagerness to learn can make you an attractive candidate.
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Macro excel expert cover letter, microsoft excel expert cover letter, related resumes for excel experts, excel expert resume example.
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Each of these cover letter templates is customizable in Word, so you can add your own text, change design elements, and more. Print out your cover letter or download it for free to use for online job applications. Once you've customized the perfect cover letter, explore resume templates that will match your cover letter design, or download free ...
Here are ten top tips for crafting a cover letter for a job: Address your recruiter or hiring manager by name. Using your recipient's name quickly makes your cover letter stand out. Addressing your recipient by name shows them that you're willing to put that extra work in. Link your history to the job description.
A cover letter is a one-page document included in your job application (along with your resume ). When written well, your cover letter provides employers with important context that isn't covered in your resume. March 4, 2024. Build My Cover Letter Now. As featured in *.
Your cover letter is a quick introduction that accompanies your resume. It's an opportunity to go beyond the format of a resume, highlight your passions, and include some details that an employer won't find on your resume. Read on for essential items to add to your cover letter.
A cover letter is a one-page statement that puts all of your relevant activities in context. For an internship, a cover letter will include a few essential items. These include: An explanation for why you are applying for this particular internship. A description of how your past academic or work history will make you a good intern.
A cover letter is a one-page document you send with your resume that features additional information about skills and experiences related to the job you're seeking. It is typically three to four short paragraphs. In these paragraphs, you should meet these goals: Mention the role you want by name.
The cover letter is a tool to help introduce yourself in a memorable, personal way during a job application. A well-crafted cover letter goes over information on your resume and expands this information for the reader, taking them on a guided journey of some of your greatest career and life achievements.. Its purpose is to elaborate on the information contained in your resume while infusing ...
A cover letter is a type of letter you include in your job application. Its main role is to let the reader know what motivated you to apply, and what you can offer. A cover letter is not synonymous with a resume or CV. Typically, a cover letter's main body consists of three paragraphs, each for a different purpose.
A cover letter is a short introduction to you that concisely communicates your interest in a job opportunity along with your top skills and relevant experience. It's important to customize your cover letter for each role to demonstrate that you've researched the organization's mission and values.—. Genevieve Northup, MBA, SHRM-CP, HCI-SPTD.
Use Microsoft Word's Cover Letter Templates. Formal letters don't have to be bland. Go to File > More templates on Word, and type "cover letter" in the search box. You'll find several ...
A cover letter is a one-page document that you include with your resume as part of your application for a job. A good cover letter grabs a Hiring Manager's attention and gets you to the next step of the hiring process. While every job you apply for will have either a specific application form or will ask for a resume, not every one will ask ...
Cover Letter: A cover letter is a written document submitted with a job application explaining the applicant's credentials and interest in the open position. Since a cover letter is often one of ...
There are 3 types of cover letters that you can send to a hiring manager. The 3 types are: Application cover letters. Letters of Interest. Email Cover letters. The letter you write is influenced by whether you are going to apply for a job directly, citing a referral, or asking about vacancies that are not advertised.
Cover letter format. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Jenn shares her advice on how and why to write a cover letter.
Windows macOS Web. Go to File > New. In the search box, type Resume or Cover Letter. Double-click the template you want to use. Replace the placeholder text with your own information. Start your resume with a professionally designed template and cover letter. You can use Microsoft Word resume templates to create a polished resume.
Entering resume and cover letter prompts into ChatGPT. The goal of using ChatGPT to write your resume or cover letter is to lessen the stress of creating these documents. But that doesn't mean you're off the hook. You still must give the AI very clear instructions about what you want it to generate.
Yes, Microsoft Word has a cover letter template. In fact, the Microsoft Word software comes with several cover letter templates available to download from Office.com. You can also find them by: Opening Microsoft Word. Selecting "New". Typing "Cover Letter" into the search box. After you've picked a cover letter template you like ...
The main purpose of a cover letter is to fill in the gaps in your resume, and give hiring managers a deeper insight into your professional background. The best cover letters act as an effective marketing tool, and the product being marketed is you. According to a recent Resume Genius survey, 68% of hiring managers view cover letters as ...
How to list Microsoft Office skills on a resume. Depending on the specific job requirements, you may be expected to have at least a few specific Microsoft skills, and you can use the following steps to ensure you highlight your skills effectively: Research the job and organization. Match your skills to the requirements.
A cover letter should include the following parts: Header. Salutation. Introduction. Body paragraph. Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. The following cover letter samples and examples will show you how to write a cover letter for many employment circumstances. Browse cover letters by job title for inspiration.
4 Excel Expert Cover Letter Examples. Excel Experts are masters of data manipulation, transforming raw numbers into meaningful insights through complex formulas and pivot tables. Similarly, your cover letter is a tool to transform your raw skills and experiences into a compelling narrative that highlights your expertise and value.