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How To End a Cover Letter (With Closing Examples)

yours sincerely for cover letter

Cover Letter Closing Examples

Closings not to use, how to sign a cover letter, set up an email signature, more cover letter writing tips.

Hugo Lin / The Balance

When you're writing a cover letter or sending an email message to apply for a job, it's important to close your letter in as professional a manner as possible. End your letter with a formal closing, followed by your signature.

As with any job-related correspondence, it's best to opt for a more formal language and tone—a cover letter is no place for "XOXO," “Cheers,” or even a casual "take care" as a closer.

The following is a list of letter closing examples that are appropriate for cover letters and other employment-related correspondence, such as thank-you notes and/or emails to schedule interviews or pass along references.

  • Sincerely yours
  • Best regards
  • With best regards
  • Kind regards
  • Yours truly
  • Most sincerely
  • Respectfully
  • Respectfully yours
  • Thank you for your consideration

A cover letter is a formal correspondence, so it's important not to be too casual or friendly when writing it. Here are some letter closings that are fine to use when emailing or writing to a friend, but are not appropriate to use in a cover letter. 

  • Affectionately
  • Best wishes
  • Eagerly waiting for a response
  • Warm regards
  • Warmest regards
  • Take it easy
  • Have a great day
  • Have a nice day
  • Yours faithfully
  • Abbreviations (Thx or any other abbreviated word isn't appropriate)
  • Any emoticon (no smiley faces)
  • Sent from my phone (if your phone automatically includes it, you can remove it in the settings)

For a printed letter, follow the closing with a comma. Then, on a new line, put your name. Leave a space above your typed name for your written signature.

Signature (hard copy letter)

If you're sending an email, you can add your contact information below your name. For example:

Best regards,

Your Name Your Email Address Your Phone Number Your LinkedIn Profile URL

Whichever sign-off you choose, make sure always to capitalize its first letter.

To simplify, you can set up an email signature that includes your contact information.

An email signature will make it easy for correspondents to readily see how to get in touch and saves you the time of typing the information repeatedly.

Use a Professional Email Account

It’s a wise idea, when conducting a job search, to set up an email account (and accompanying address) dedicated. Doing so will help to ensure that you don’t miss emails from potential employers who might be interested in interviewing you. It also will allow you to provide a professional-sounding email address on your resume and cover letter. This email address should be comprised simply of your name (examples: “John.T.Smith@gmail.com or marjoriejones@email.com).

Too often, job candidates use their personal email accounts to apply for jobs, often using “cute” email names such as “Crafty_catlady@yahoo.com” or OrcWarrior100@gmail.com.” This casual practice often raises hiring managers, eyebrows, raising red flags about whether a candidate is a serious, qualified applicant for the job to which they are applying.

It’s better to err on the side of safety and separate your professional and personal email accounts.

What To Include in Your Signature

In your signature, include your email address and phone number. You can add your LinkedIn profile URL to make it easy for your recipients to view your skills, accomplishments, educational background, and work history. Depending on your field, you may also want to include a link to your Twitter account; if you do so, make sure that your account is professional and appropriate for viewing by potential employers. 

Find out how to set up a professional email signature, including formatting style and links to help you save a signature in your preferred email program.

Cover letters, whether submitted through email or traditional mail channels, are always the first impression you provide a potential employer. Make sure that this impression is a good one by following the “best practices” outlined in these links so that your cover letter shines.

Having an appropriate close is just one of the many steps required to craft a winning cover letter.

Review how to write a cover letter , including what to include in your cover letter, how to write a cover letter, typical cover letter formats, targeted cover letters, and cover letter samples and examples.

Status.net

How to Close a Cover Letter: 60 Examples of Strong Closing Statements

By Status.net Editorial Team on December 12, 2023 — 16 minutes to read

A strong cover letter closing is essential in making a great impression and reinforcing your enthusiasm for the job opportunity. It provides a final opportunity to emphasize your relevant skills, experiences, and personal attributes that make you an ideal candidate. A compelling closing also encourages the employer to take action, such as inviting you for an interview. Consider these examples:

  • Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute my skills and experiences in this exciting role.
  • I am eager to discuss how my background aligns with your team’s goals and how I can contribute to your company’s growth.
  • I am confident that my expertise in social media marketing makes me well-suited for this position, and I appreciate your time and consideration.

Positive Impact on Employers

Your cover letter closing is crucial, as it leaves a lasting impression on the employer and influences their perception of you as a candidate. A positive and engaging closing helps you stand out among other applicants and increases your chances of being selected for an interview. Here are a few key points that can create a positive impact:

  • Express gratitude : Show appreciation for the time the employer has spent reading your cover letter, and thank them for considering your application.
  • Be enthusiastic : Reiterate your excitement about the job opportunity and the prospect of joining their team.
  • Include a call to action : Encourage further engagement, like scheduling an interview or discussing your qualifications in more detail.

For example:

Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I am highly enthusiastic about joining your team and discussing my potential contributions to your ongoing projects. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at your earliest convenience.

Crafting Your Final Paragraph

Summarizing your enthusiasm.

To leave a lasting impression, summarize your enthusiasm for the role in your closing paragraph. Highlight your excitement about the opportunity and express gratitude for the potential connection with the company. For instance:

I’m thrilled about the prospect of joining the (…) team and contributing my marketing skills to drive innovative campaigns. Thank you for considering my application.

Reaffirming Your Best Fit for the Role

Before signing off, reinforce why you’re the perfect candidate for the position. Briefly recap your relevant experience, skills, or accomplishments that set you apart. Be concise yet confident in your message. For example:

With my five years of experience in international sales and my proven ability to develop long-term client relationships, I am confident in my ability to excel as your next Sales Manager.

Choosing the Right Sign-Off

Professional sign-off options.

Selecting the appropriate closing for your cover letter can leave a lasting impression. Here are some professional sign-off options to consider:

  • Sincerely : This classic sign-off is appropriate for most scenarios and conveys professionalism.
  • Best regards : A versatile and slightly more casual option, ideal for a variety of industries.
  • Kind regards : This friendly sign-off is suitable when you have developed a rapport with the receiver, like the hiring manager.

You can also try other options such as Yours truly , Respectfully , or Yours faithfully , depending on your preference and the nature of the job you are applying for.

Matching the Company Culture

Try to tailor your sign-off to match the company culture. Researching the company’s website, social media, or reviewing employee testimonials can help you get a better understanding of the company culture. For example:

  • Innovative or creative industries : Feel free to express yourself with a casual yet professional closing, like Warm Regards or Cheers .
  • Traditional or formal industries : Stick to more formal options such as Sincerely or Best Regards .

Incorporating a Call to Action

Proposing the next steps.

A well-crafted cover letter should inspire the reader to take the next step. This could include scheduling an interview, discussing your application further, or even simply reviewing your attached resume. To encourage this action, incorporate a call to action (CTA) at the end of your cover letter that guides the hiring manager.

Some examples of CTAs in the context of cover letters include:

  • Schedule a meeting : “I’m excited about the opportunity to discuss my experiences and how they align with the [job title] position. Let’s set up a time to chat!”
  • Ask for a callback : “I’d be thrilled to further discuss my application and the value I bring to the table. Give me a call at your earliest convenience to chat more.”
  • Direct them to your portfolio : “I’d love to showcase my recent work, which you can find at [website link]. Let’s discuss how my skillset aligns with the [job title] role.”

Remember to tailor these examples to your specific application and the company to which you’re applying.

60 Examples of Strong Closing Statements For a Cover Letter

  • 1. This position seems like a perfect match for my experience, passions, and career aspirations. I would love to bring my skills and expertise to your organization.
  • 2. I am confident that I can make an immediate and positive impact if given the opportunity to join your team. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your organization’s success.
  • 3. My background and capabilities align well with the responsibilities of this role. I am excited by the prospect of applying my experience to this position.
  • 4. I am enthusiastic about the chance to join your organization. Please contact me to further discuss my qualifications and how I can add value.
  • 5. I would welcome the opportunity to showcase my abilities and help drive growth and innovation through this position. I am eager to learn more.
  • 6. With my skills and experience, I am prepared to excel in this role and hit the ground running. I look forward to speaking with you.
  • 7. I am confident I would thrive in this position. I am eager to bring my skills, passion, and drive to your dynamic team.
  • 8. I believe I am an excellent fit for this opportunity and am excited by the prospect of contributing my talents to your organization. I welcome the chance to speak with you further.
  • 9. My experience aligns well with the responsibilities of this exciting role. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to apply my skills to benefit your organization.
  • 10. I am excited by the chance to join your team. I look forward to further discussion.
  • 11. I am confident that I possess the necessary qualifications for this role and would excel if given the opportunity.
  • 12. With my background and passion, I am prepared to hit the ground running and make an immediate impact through this position. I would love to join your team.
  • 13. I am eager to apply my expertise to help drive success and innovation for your organization. Please contact me to arrange a time to talk.
  • 14. My experience has fully prepared me to excel in this role. I am excited by the prospect of bringing my skills to your dynamic organization.
  • 15. I am enthusiastic about this opportunity and the chance to contribute to your company’s continued growth and innovation. I look forward to elaborating on my qualifications.
  • 16. I am confident I can perform exceptionally well in this position. I am excited by the prospect of joining your team and organization.
  • 17. With my proven track record, I am prepared to dive in and deliver results through this role. I would be thrilled to join your organization.
  • 18. I am eager to join an organization where I can utilize my expertise to create meaningful impact. This role seems like an excellent fit.
  • 19. I am excited by the prospect of joining your innovative company. My skills would enable me to contribute to your team’s success right away.
  • 20. I am confident my background makes me a competitive applicant for this opportunity. I am excited to further discuss my qualifications with you.
  • 21. With my experience and passion, I know I would thrive in this position. I hope to have the chance to join your talented team.
  • 22. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of bringing my skills and experience to your dynamic organization.
  • 23. I am eager to apply my expertise to help drive innovation and success in this role. I would be thrilled to join your team.
  • 24. I am confident my abilities make me a strong candidate for this opportunity. I am excited by the chance to contribute to your company’s growth.
  • 25. I believe I possess the necessary skills, experience, and drive to excel in this position.
  • 26. With my background, I am prepared to dive in, roll up my sleeves, and immediately begin adding value in this role. I am excited by this opportunity.
  • 27. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your team. I am confident my experience would allow me to thrive in this position.
  • 28. I would welcome the opportunity to join your organization and collaborate with your talented team in this role. Please contact me to further discuss my qualifications.
  • 29. I am excited by the chance to apply my skills and experience to help drive innovation and success for your company. I hope to speak with you soon.
  • 30. I am eager to bring passion, expertise, and a strong work ethic to this position. I am confident I would excel on your team. I look forward to further discussing how I can contribute to your organization’s success.
  • 31. I am confident that I have the necessary qualifications to excel in this role, and I am excited by the prospect of contributing my skills to your organization. I look forward to discussing this opportunity further.
  • 32. With my experience and capabilities, I know I would be a great asset to your team through this position. I am eager to bring my passion and expertise to your dynamic organization.
  • 33. I am enthusiastic about the chance to apply my background in a way that drives meaningful impact and innovation. This role seems like an ideal fit for my skills.
  • 34. I am eager to join your organization and collaborate with your talented team to deliver exceptional results.
  • 35. I am prepared to hit the ground running and make immediate contributions in this role. My experience aligns well with the responsibilities, and I am excited by the prospect of joining your company.
  • 36. I am confident that I possess the ideal qualifications for this opportunity. I would love to join your organization and contribute my skills to help drive future success.
  • 37. With my proven track record and expertise, I am prepared to dive in and immediately begin adding value through this position. I am excited by this opportunity and welcome further discussion.
  • 38. My background and capabilities make me confident that I can perform exceptionally well in this role.
  • 39. I am eager to apply my skills in a high-impact position with a respected organization like yours. I am confident I would thrive on your team. Please contact me to arrange a meeting.
  • 40. I believe this role is an excellent match for my qualifications. I am excited by the opportunity to contribute my experience and talents to your innovative company.
  • 41. I am confident that my background has prepared me well to excel in this position. I would be thrilled to join your talented team and organization.
  • 42. With my passion, expertise, and proven ability to deliver results, I am prepared to dive in and immediately begin driving value through this role. I am excited by this opportunity and look forward to further discussion.
  • 43. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of applying my skills in a challenging and rewarding position at your respected company. I am eager to learn more about this opportunity.
  • 44. I am excited by the chance to join your dynamic team. My experience has fully prepared me to thrive in this position and help drive your organization’s continued success.
  • 45. I am confident I possess the ideal qualifications for this opportunity. I would welcome the chance to join your team and contribute to future growth and innovation.
  • 46. With my background and capabilities, I am prepared to excel in this role. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of applying my experience to benefit your organization. I look forward to speaking with you.
  • 47. I am eager to utilize my expertise. Please contact me to arrange a meeting to discuss my qualifications.
  • 48. I am excited by the prospect of joining your team. I am confident my skills and experience make me a competitive applicant for this opportunity. I look forward to further discussion.
  • 49. This role seems like an excellent match for my background. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your organization’s success and future growth.
  • 50. I am confident I possess the necessary experience and qualifications to excel in this position. I would be thrilled to join your talented team. I look forward to speaking with you.
  • 51. I am excited by this opportunity and welcome the chance to further discuss my qualifications.
  • 52. I am eager to apply my expertise in a challenging role that enables me to create meaningful impact. I am confident I would thrive in this position on your team.
  • 53. I believe I am an excellent fit for this opportunity. I would be honored to join your organization and collaborate with your talented team. I look forward to further discussion.
  • 54. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing my experience to help drive innovation and continued success. I am excited by this opportunity and confident in my ability to excel.
  • 55. Thank you for reviewing my application. I am eager to bring my background and capabilities to this exciting role on your team. I am confident I can perform exceptionally well if given the opportunity. I look forward to speaking with you.
  • 56. With my proven skills and expertise aligned with this position’s responsibilities, I am prepared to dive in and immediately begin adding value to your organization.
  • 57. I am confident that my experience, capabilities and passion for excellence would allow me to thrive in this role. I would welcome the opportunity to join your respected organization and am eager to further discuss my qualifications.
  • 58. I am excited by the prospect of utilizing my background to help drive innovation and success in this position. I am confident in my ability to excel on your team and look forward to learning more.
  • 59. I believe I am an excellent candidate for this opportunity. I am enthusiastic about applying my experience to contribute to the continued growth and success of your esteemed organization.
  • 60. With my proven track record and expertise, I know I would thrive in this role. I am eager to bring my skills and passion to your dynamic team. Thank you for your consideration – I look forward to discussing this opportunity further.

When choosing a closing statement, make sure it matches the overall tone of your cover letter and reflects your personality. Also, take into consideration the company culture and position you’re applying for.

Examples of Effective Cover Letter Closings

Formal closings.

  • Respectfully,
  • Yours faithfully,
  • Kind regards,
  • Best regards,
  • Yours sincerely,
  • Yours truly,

Semi-Formal Closings

  • Warm regards,
  • Best wishes,
  • With appreciation,
  • Looking forward to your response,
  • Yours in professional success,
  • Many thanks,
  • Thank you for your consideration,
  • Eager for the opportunity to connect,

Casual Closings

  • Have a great day,
  • All the best,
  • Thanks so much,
  • Excited to chat soon,
  • Grateful for your time.

Polishing Your Cover Letter Ending

Proofreading for errors.

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-proofread cover letter. Before sending it off, give it a thorough read-through, and look closely for any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors. Consider using a grammar tool to help catch mistakes you might have missed. Also, ask a friend, family member, or even a professional to review your cover letter. Their fresh perspective can provide valuable insights and catch anything you might have overlooked.

Ensuring Consistency with Your Resume

To make your application seamless, double-check your cover letter and resume to ensure consistency. Pay special attention to details such as job titles, dates, and company names, as inconsistencies can raise concerns from potential employers. It’s also a good idea to match the formatting and fonts across both documents to give your application a polished and cohesive look. Make sure the skills and experiences you highlight in your cover letter are complementary to those mentioned in your resume, so they work together to make a strong case for your candidacy.

Sending Your Cover Letter

Email versus hard copy.

When sending your cover letter, you’ll usually have two options: email or hard copy. Each has its benefits and considerations:

  • More convenient and faster
  • Allows for easy tracking and organization
  • Often preferred by employers
  • Be sure to use professional language and an appropriate subject line
  • Formal option, which may be required for certain industries or applications
  • Neatly print and sign your cover letter
  • Use quality paper and a matching envelope

It’s crucial to consider the preferences of the employer when deciding which method to use. If they haven’t specified a preference, feel free to choose the one that makes the most sense for you.

Following Submission Guidelines

No matter how well-written your cover letter is, failing to follow submission guidelines can hurt your chances of being considered for the position. Pay close attention to these key details when preparing your cover letter:

  • Deadline: Be punctual in submitting your application – submit on time or even earlier.
  • Formatting requirements: Follow any formatting requirements mentioned explicitly, such as font type, font size, and margins.
  • File format: Save and send your cover letter in the requested file format, like PDF or Word Document (.docx).
  • Contact information: Don’t forget to include your up-to-date contact information, such as your email address and phone number.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some strong closing statements for a cover letter that stand out to employers.

A strong closing statement should reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and demonstrate your confidence in your qualifications. Here are some examples:

  • “I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to your team and look forward to discussing my qualifications further.”
  • “Thank you for considering my application. I believe my expertise aligns well with the role, and I am eager to contribute to the success of your organization.”
  • “I’m confident that my skills make me an ideal candidate for the position, and I’m eager to discuss how I can add value to your company.”

What’s the best way to format the closing section of my cover letter?

To format the closing section of your cover letter, you should:

  • Leave a space between the last paragraph and your closing.
  • Use a closing phrase like “Sincerely” or “Kind regards.”
  • Add your full name and contact information, such as email address and phone number.
  • If applicable, include any relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile or online portfolio.
  • Leave a space between your closing phrase and your name so you can add a digital or printed signature.

Should I use ‘Kind regards’ or ‘Yours sincerely’ to finish off my cover letter?

Both ‘Kind regards’ and ‘Yours sincerely’ are acceptable and professional ways to end a cover letter. You can choose which one you feel most comfortable with or suits your individual style. In general, ‘Kind regards’ is a safe and widely used option, while ‘Yours sincerely’ is considered a bit more formal.

How can you make a cover letter feel personal and engaging without being too casual?

To make your cover letter personal and engaging, try these tips:

  • Address the recipient by name, if possible, to create a connection.
  • Start your cover letter by mentioning a specific detail about the company or role to show you’ve done your research.
  • Share anecdotes from your experience that directly relate to the requirements of the job and showcase your unique qualities.
  • Focus on the value you can bring to the company, rather than just listing your qualifications.
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  • Get an instant price to have your English document edited by professionals.

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English Editing Blog

yours sincerely for cover letter

How to Start and End a Cover Letter

Now that you’ve written your resume in English , and you’ve found a job advertisement, here are a few tips on how to write a respectable cover letter.  I consider these tips to be the ‘good manners’ you’d want to extend to your potential new company.

When we’re editing cover letters at English Trackers , I’ve come to realise that many people don’t know how to start or finish a letter in English.

Compared to some of the flowery endings you find in other languages, English is incredibly simple and the salutation and sign off should be learned in pairs.

Let me explain.

The Salutation  – How to start a cover letter

There are three possible choices:

You know the person’s name – then use it:

  • Dear Mr Parker

You don’t know the person’s name – but have been told to write to the HR department:

  • Dear HR Manager

You don’t know the person’s name and don’t want to offend either gender:

  • Dear Sir or Madam

NOTE : Do not use ‘To Whom It May Concern’

This should only be used on letters of reference, certificates etc. These kinds of documents are submitted over and over again, and are therefore addressed to many different people – whom ever it may concern.

The Sign Off – How to end a cover letter

There are only two choices: Yours sincerely or Yours faithfully

Here’s a very simple way of remembering whether you end with Yours sincerely or Yours faithfully.

“You can never have more than one ‘ S ’ in a salutation and signoff.” Therefore – Dear S ir & Yours s incerely – should never appear together.

If you know the person’s name, you ALWAYS sign off with Yours sincerely. For every other salutation, you sign off Yours faithfully.

  • Dear Mr Parker – Yours sincerely
  • Dear Ms Little – Yours sincerely  
  • Dear Sir – Yours faithfully
  • Dear Madam – Yours faithfully
  • Dear HR Manager – Yours faithfully

I said it was simple! If you want more info on coping with letter etiquette, download the English Trackers Email Etiquette Tips – we’ve covered just about every eventuality in there.

Setting the tone

Tone is not an easy thing to master in another language. You need to write in such a way that you don’t presume anything – that the person will call you for an interview, that the company will hire you etc. – but you do want to show you’re a good fit for the position.

Endings are very hard – as hard and important as the beginning of a cover letter, and they merit a fair amount of time. You want to end on a positive note that points to the future – the possibility of an interview, the submission of further information.

In the edited version below, these two points are merged together into one fluid and positive last sentence.

I thank you for taking the time to consider my application, and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you in more detail.

In the following unedited example, the first sentence is not too bad in terms of tone, but the second sentence is basically an order; there is not even a please or a thank you!

In case this application together with my attached CV has paid your attention I will be happy to elaborate on the value I can bring xxx company.

As I am permanently employed it is very important that you treat this application with full discretion and confidentiality.

Below, is a polite, edited version of those two sentences:

Should you wish, I would be very happy to discuss the contents of this letter and the enclosed CV in person. I would also request that in light of my on-going permanent employment this application be treated with full discretion and confidentiality.

And don’t forget, when you’ve finished writing  – edit, edit, edit .

Re-read it and then if possible, leave it for a night. Come back to it fresh and go through it again. Ask someone else to read it – preferably a native English speaker – and only when you are sure it’s error free and ready to represent you politely – then push SEND!

Good luck with your job applications.

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How to Sign a Cover Letter

Greg Faherty

When  writing a resume cover letter , you should focus on each aspect. One of these key aspects is the conclusion of your cover letter. A good ending to a cover letter includes a proper  cover letter signature . How you  sign off your cover letter  is crucial as it will either leave the prospective employer with a positive,  professional first impression .

Choosing  how to sign off a cover letter  the right way depends on a few factors, such as the  cover letter format  of your email. However, in general, it’s better to remain  formal and professional . You can be positive and even friendly, but  avoid casual language  such as “thanks”, “cheers”, or “take care”.

If you get it wrong by  making a small mistake  or by using inappropriate language in your  cover letter ending , you risk leaving the wrong impression on the hiring manager. As employers receive  so many applications for each position , this can be enough for yours to be discounted.

The  signature on your cover letter  is a crucial part of your cover letter that you need to nail. Ensure you  sign your cover letter the right way  and leave the hiring manager with a fantastic impression. Check out the information below to ensure you know how to  conclude your cover letter in the best way possible .

How to sign a cover letter when emailing

Emailing job applications, including cover letters and resumes, is the new normal. Regarding the conclusion of your cover letter, you may be asking yourself, “do I need to sign a cover letter that is  submitted electronically ?”

You need to  have the proper sign-off  when you conclude your cover letter, even by email.

It’s essential to know how and  where to sign a cover letter  if you are emailing it to a hiring manager. Use a  professional sign-off  (such as sincerely, sincerely yours, best regards, or most sincerely) at the end of the letter, followed by your full name written underneath. Doing so makes your  cover letter  and job application that much more effective.

If you’re emailing a  cover letter with a signature  you should use a  professional sign off  (such as sincerely, sincerely yours, best regards or most sincerely) followed by your  full name written underneath .

You don’t need to sign the letter by hand when  signing a cover letter electronically . Also  avoid using italics  or an alternative font as this can look childish. Just write your full name in the  same font as the rest of the letter .

It’s also essential to clearly  include your contact details  when you  sign off a resume cover letter . It would be a tragedy if you  nailed your cover letter , spent time tailoring your resume using a   resume builder , and then the employer  didn’t know how to contact you .

An easy, time-effective way of doing this is by  setting up an email signature . You should include your name, telephone number, email address and a link to your  LinkedIn profile  (and any other useful links which may help your application).

Closing signature examples

Here are some examples of  how to sign a cover letter electronically . The first example contains the very least you should include (name, email address, and phone number). The third is the ideal example of  how to sign a cover letter via email .

Sincerely yours,

Mary Washington [email protected] 70997654

Best regards,

Mary Washington 17 Cherry Tree Lane, Portland, Oregon, 97035. [email protected] 70997654

Mary Washington 17 Cherry Tree Lane, Portland, Oregon, 97035. [email protected] 70997654 www.linkedin.com/marywashington www.personalwebsite.com

Examples of Bad Signatures on Cover Letters

Including  this part of a cover letter is essential , and doing it well can give your chances of being hired a serious boost. However, there are things you should avoid writing in your cover letter signature. In a cover letter, you as an applicant have a chance to show off some of your personality, but that  does not mean you can be too casual .

Here are some  examples of words you should avoid writing  when you are signing off your cover letter:

  • Best wishes
  • Take it easy
  • Affectionately

It is also a good idea to not use abbreviations of words, such as “thx”. Also, erase any messages that are automatically included by your cell phone. Delete messages such as “Sent from my x phone” before sending.

How to sign a paper cover letter

Though it is  becoming less common , you may need to either  mail a cover letter  or upload one to a website. In these cases, you should leave enough space between the sign-off and your full name to  include a handwritten signature . After printing your cover letter, you should sign your name  using black ink .

For  written cover letters , you should use a formal business  cover letter format  which  includes your contact details  and those of the employer at the top of the page, as well as a  heading and salutation . As you include your contact details at the top, there is  no need to include them  with your signature as you would in an email.

Though the  importance of signing a cover letter  shouldn’t be underestimated,  how to end a cover letter  is only one part of your application. Read more  cover letter advice  for information on  writing the other parts of your cover letter  and also spend time researching  how to write a resume . Using  resume templates  is an effective way of  producing professional-looking results  quickly.

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How to write a cover letter.

A cover letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to think about your application. 

It’s a short letter, usually 3 to 5 paragraphs long.

When to include a cover letter

You should always include a cover letter when you apply for a job using a CV. 

You can write it as an email if you’re applying online or print a copy to go with a paper application.

When writing a cover letter, let the employer know you’re keen by showing that you’ve researched the company. Learn more about what they do through:

  • their website
  • recent news articles
  • talking to people you know who work there

Send it to the right person

It's important to try to address your cover letter to someone by name. Check you have the details of the person you need to send it to. 

You'll need their name and preferred title. For example, ‘Dr’, ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’, ‘Ms’, and their job title. You should also make sure you have the right company name and address, including postcode.

If you do not know their name

If the job advert does not include a name you can check the company website. Try to find details of the head of the department, head of human resources or a recruitment manager.

If you still cannot find a name, you can start your letter with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.

Introduction

Introduce yourself and explain how you found the advertised job. You can mention the job title, and reference number if there is one. 

If you’re asking about any job openings and not applying to a vacancy, tell them what sort of job you’re looking for. Let the employer see how keen you are to work for them.

Show you're right for the job

Highlight the skills and experience you have that match what the employer is looking for. 

Convince them that you're enthusiastic about working for them. Let them know you share their work values, culture and style.

Give extra information

If you have gaps in your employment history, you could talk about the skills you gained while you were out of work.

If you’ve mentioned on your CV that you have a disability, you might want to talk more about this in your cover letter. Organisations like Disability UK can give you advice on how to do this. You do not have to mention your disability at this stage if you prefer not to.

You can get more help with specialist advice on finding work if you have a disability.

Ending your cover letter

Thank the employer for considering your application. Let them know that they can get more details from your CV, and tell them you're looking forward to hearing from them.

Let them know how they can best contact you. Make sure your contact details are correct on both your cover letter and CV.

Yours sincerely or yours faithfully

If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with ‘Yours sincerely’.

If you’ve addressed the letter ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, you should end the letter with ‘Yours faithfully’.

Tips for writing a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, remember to:

  • write a new one for every job you apply for and make sure it’s tailored to the company and the specific role
  • use the same font and size as you do for your CV, so it looks consistent
  • make sure the company name and recruiter’s details are correct
  • use the right language and tone: keep it professional and match the keywords used by the employer in their job advert
  • show you’ve done your research into the job and the company
  • highlight your most relevant skills and experience to stand out from other applicants
  • back up any statements you make with facts and use the STAR method
  • double check spelling and grammar before you send it
  • keep a copy of your cover letter as they may ask you about it in an interview

Related content

How to write a CV

Completing application forms

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Resources > Unitemps Career Advice > Cover letter mistakes and how to avoid them

Cover letter mistakes and how to avoid them

Cover letters seem straightforward enough but there is an art to making them stand out – find out what to avoid if your cover letter is to have the impact you want it to.

1. Don’t write a personal statement

A cover letter should give a brief indication of why you think you are right for this role. You will also want to showcase your passion for the work involved but be wary of writing a statement that is all about you – a personal statement would be a more appropriate document to tell your story and only some employers will want this as part of the application process. A cover letter, on the other hand, ‘covers’ the skills detailed on your CV by going into more detail and demonstrating your ability and how these skills have been put into practice.

2. Keep it succinct

It’s tempting to overload your cover letter with multiple examples of your skills and how you have utilised these in your work so far but the employer needs a short and snappy summary to get through a lot of applications. Instead, save some of your examples and scenarios for the interview stage, where you will be able to talk about your work in much more depth. Your cover letter should be no longer than one page.

3. Don’t repeat your CV

A cover letter shouldn’t simply list your achievements and work to date as this is the task your CV takes care of. Instead, you should reflect your skills and experience using specific examples to back up the information on your CV. Your cover letter is all about proving you’re the right person for the job through clear scenarios, so think about what qualities the employer is looking for and then instances of when you have shown these qualities at work.

4. Format it correctly

Be sure to present the information on your cover letter in the correct style and layout. It’s professional to include your address in the top right column and the address of your employer in the top left column of your letter, regardless of it being sent electronically. You should start the letter with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ or even by name if you have this information to hand. If you have addressed the receiver as sir or madam, you should sign off with ‘Yours faithfully’. If you have addressed the receiver by name, then ‘yours sincerely’ is best. Check our the Unitemps cover letter template for an example of what to do.

5. Write a new cover letter for every job role

Writing cover letters shouldn’t be rushed – and this means it can be time-consuming and the temptation to copy and paste from previous covering letters is strong. The problem with doing this is that it is often obvious to the employers that you haven’t tailored your skills to the job description. It appears lazy and you can come across as unmotivated straight away – so, if you want your covering letter to have an impact, put the time in and explicitly link your skills and experience to the person specification.

Register with Unitemps to upload your CV and begin applying for jobs straight away.

Last updated on 12 December 2022

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  • Yours Sincerely | Meaning, When to Use & Examples

Yours Sincerely | Meaning, When to Use & Examples

Published on 16 December 2022 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on 27 June 2023.

Yours sincerely is a standard sign-off, used to end an email or letter, followed by your name on the next line. ‘Sincerely’ is an adverb meaning ‘genuinely’ and is used to emphasise your honest intentions toward the person addressed.

This sign-off is relatively formal, but it should usually only be used when writing to someone you already know, not a complete stranger. An alternative like ‘Yours faithfully’ should be used with someone you’ve never written to before.

I am writing to inform you …

Yours sincerely,

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Table of contents

Yours sincerely or sincerely yours, sincerely on its own, sincerely, truly, or faithfully, frequently asked questions.

The order in which you write the two words depends on whether you’re writing in US or UK English :

  • In US English , Sincerely yours is the normal word order.
  • In UK English , Yours sincerely is used instead.

Sincerely yours, / Yours sincerely,

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A popular alternative, particularly in the US, is to write Sincerely on its own, without including ‘yours’ at all. This usage is now more common than the version with ‘yours’ in US business correspondence. It conveys a slightly less formal tone, although still not casual.

Use this sign-off in US correspondence if you want to tone down the formality slightly without becoming overly informal. In the UK, where it hasn’t gained as much popularity, it’s still safest to stick with Yours sincerely .

Sincerely can also be replaced with either faithfully or truly in formal correspondence. Both these alternatives are supposed to be used when writing to a person you haven’t interacted with before, especially if you addressed them as ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.

Their popularity again varies between US and UK English:

  • Yours truly is more popular in US English .
  • Yours faithfully is standard in UK English .

Note that the rules of when to use each one are followed less strictly in US correspondence. Yours truly is often used whether you know the person or not, and people are unlikely to object to it.

Yours truly, / Yours faithfully,

Sincerely is an adverb meaning ‘genuinely’ or ‘honestly’. It’s related to the adjective ‘sincere’. It’s commonly used on its own or in combination with ‘yours’ as a sign-off at the end of an email message or letter. It’s a formal way of ending a message that emphasises your honest intentions toward the recipient.

It’s also used in other contexts to emphasise the genuineness of a feeling (e.g., ‘I am sincerely sorry for my comments’).

‘Your sincerely’ is a mistake; the correct spelling of the phrase used as a sign-off for email messages and letters is Yours sincerely .

The possessive pronoun ‘Yours’ is needed, not the possessive determiner ‘Your’. A determiner like ‘your’ doesn’t stand on its own but modifies a noun.

Traditionally, the sign-off Yours sincerely is used in an email message or letter when you are writing to someone you have interacted with before, not a complete stranger.

Yours faithfully is used instead when you are writing to someone you have had no previous correspondence with, especially if you greeted them as ‘ Dear Sir or Madam ’.

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Caulfield, J. (2023, June 27). Yours Sincerely | Meaning, When to Use & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved 2 April 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/strong-communication/yours-sincerely/

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The English application: Cover letter

Cover letter: final statement and ending salutation, final statement.

The last paragraph of your cover letter should mention when and how you are reachable as well as that you would welcome an invitation for a personal interview. Emphasize that you will reach out to the company yourself in the next few days to ensure that your application has arrived. Having sent the application, you now have a reason to call there. During the phone call, ask whether references and/or additional certificates are required and build an immediate personal contact, preferably with the person responsible.

Short and sweet

  • When and how are you reachable?
  • You are looking forward to an interview.
  • You will call in the next few days to ensure that the application has reached.

Ending salutation

The ending salutation depends on whether the name of the contact person is known. ‘Sincerely’ (US) and ‘Yours sincerely’ (UK) are the most common greetings if you know the person’s name. If you do not, however, and have used the salutation, ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, then ‘Yours faithfully’ is the preferred ending salutation. Phrases like ‘With best regards’ must never be used here, as they represent a more colloquial style and are used in email.

Whether you should place a comma after the ending salutation will depend on whether you have placed a comma after the greeting.

Dear Mr. XY, ... Yours sincerely, Dear Mr XY ... Yours sincerely

After the ending salutation, about four blank lines serve as placeholders for your signature, followed by your first and last names. In contrast to the CV, British and American cover letters are both signed.

Kurz und bündig

  • ‘Sincerely’ if the contact person is known
  • ‘Yours faithfully’ if the contact person is unknown
  • Comma after ending salutation if there is also a comma after the greeting
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  • Laying Out a Letter

How to End a Letter Sincerely: 14+ Tips for Business & Personal Letters

Last Updated: September 27, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was reviewed by Seth Hall and by wikiHow staff writer, Glenn Carreau . Seth T. Hall (ICF ACC, CLC, and MNLP) is a Certified Life Coach and Founder of Transformational Solutions, a Los Angeles-based life-coaching company that helps people achieve their toughest goals, find their own voice, and think outside the box. He has been a life coach for over 10 years, specializing in personal development, relationships, career and finance, and wellness. He has helped his clients break the negative cycles in their lives and replace them with a positive, proactive mindset. Seth believes that everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling and rewarding life, and works passionately to help them reach their full potential. With a deep understanding of how our minds work and the power of positive thinking, he encourages his clients to find their unique paths in life and find success on their own terms. He is a certified master practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, a featured co-author for WikiHow, and co-author of "The Mountain Method”, “The Happy Tiger”, and “The V.I.S.I.O.N.S. Program”. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 285,473 times.

Are you feeling confused about how to choose a sincere, situation-appropriate closing phrase for your letter? You’re not alone! Whether you’re writing a business letter or a thank-you note, your closer is an important piece of the puzzle—and the right one often depends on the situation. Here, we’ll show you which closing phrases are most sincere and teach you how to choose the best one for your letter.

Things You Should Know

  • Phrases like “Sincerely” and “Best” (along with variations like “Sincerely yours” and “Best wishes”) are great additions to any letter.
  • Use professional closes like “Regards” and “Thank you for your time” to convey your message while being polite to people you don’t know well.
  • Write more personal closes like “Take care,” “Cheers,” and “Your friend” in letters to people you know well and are friendly with.

Professional Closers

Step 1 “Sincerely”

  • Sincerely yours
  • Very sincerely
  • Very sincerely yours

Step 2 “Regards”

  • Respectfully
  • Best regards
  • “Regards” is a fairly neutral phrase. If you want to add some decorum without getting too friendly, “Best regards” is an easy switch.

Step 3 “Kind regards” or “Yours truly”

  • Kindest regards
  • Warm(est) regards
  • Have a good day/evening/weekend

Step 4 “Hope to talk soon”

  • Looking forward to your reply
  • Hope to hear from you soon
  • When writing to a friend, you could shorten the phrase and say, “Talk soon.”

Step 5 “Thank you for your time”

  • Thank you for your consideration
  • Thank you for your recommendation
  • Thank you in advance
  • Thank you for your assistance
  • Thank you (or “Thanks again” if you’ve already said it once near the beginning of the letter.)

Step 6 “With appreciation”

  • With gratitude
  • With sincere thanks
  • Many thanks

Step 7 “Best”

  • Best wishes
  • All the best
  • Best of luck

Personal Closers

Step 1 “Love” or “Fondly”

  • Your friend

Step 2 “As always”

  • With heartfelt admiration
  • With my most sincere apologies
  • With a heavy heart

Formatting & Signature Tips

Step 1 Base your signature on how well you know the person you’re writing to.

  • Sign your first and last name when you write to someone you’ve never met in person.
  • Sign only your first name on letters to friends or work colleagues who know you.
  • Write your last name in parentheses if you’ve spoken to the recipient on the phone but never met them in person.

Step 2 Use a handwritten or email format when sending professional letters.

  • On a handwritten letter, include: Sincerely, Ashton Bailey (Signature) Ashton Bailey (Your written name) [email protected] (Your email) 555-555-5555 (Your phone number)
  • In an email, you only need your name, email address, company website, and logo (if there is one).

Examples to End a Business and Personal Letter

yours sincerely for cover letter

Community Q&A

Community Answer

  • Leave personal pronouns out of your closing phrase, as they can sound awkward. Sentence fragments make the best letter closers! In other words, use "Looking forward" instead of "I am looking forward" to ensure your closing flows seamlessly. [13] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Remember that some types of personal letters can do more harm than good. For example, when you send a letter full of bitterness and anger, you can’t take those words back—they’re on the page for good. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Before sending a negative or angry letter, put it aside and let your emotions settle for a little while. When you return and re-read the letter, you may find you’d rather soften the tone or not send it at all. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

yours sincerely for cover letter

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Sign a Letter

  • ↑ https://www.hunter.cuny.edu/rwc/repository/files/business-and-professional-writing/business_letter_handout-major-rev.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.exclaimer.com/email-signature-handbook/email-sign-offs-guide/
  • ↑ https://www.grammar-monster.com/lessons/yours_faithfully_or_sincerely_at_end_of_letter.htm
  • ↑ https://erinwrightwriting.com/close-emails-letters-part-1/
  • ↑ https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/how-to-end-a-business-letter
  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/job_search_writing/job_search_letters/cover_letters_workshop/formatting_and_organization.html

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Sincerely or Faithfully?

If you know the name of the person you’re writing  to (‘Dear Jane…’) use sincerely . If you don’t know the name of the name of the person you’re addressing then you should use faithfully .

Emails tend me be less formal than traditional letters so you could always keep it simple and use regards/kind regards .

Yours sincerely and Yours faithfully are both traditional ways to end a letter. Letter writing over the years has been an art form and signing off has a long history with conventions attached to it. When you sign off a letter at the end, phrases such as Yours sincerely are known as valedictions . Take a look at these examples :

  • Yours truly
  • Kind regards
  • Yours hopefully

For our American readers there is little fuss over the sincerely/faithfully question because there it is common to use sincerely and not muddle things by adding faithfully to the equation.

But for the rest of us the question arises about how to sign off a letter and make sure that we are using the correct valediction.

Here is how we do it (and how to remember which one to use: faithfully or sincerely).

Yours sincerely

This is used if you know the person’s name (perhaps the job advertisement has told you to send letters to a Mr J. Fox). You know their name so you will be addressing the letter to them and signing off Yours sincerely.

Yours faithfully

This is used where you do not know the name of the person to whom you are sending the letter. You may have seen a job advertised but you have not been given a name to address your cover letter to. You may start your letter, Dear Sir or Madam and end it with Yours Faithfully.

Sincerely or faithfully: How Do I Remember Which One To Use?

This is how I remember it: if you are writing a letter to someone and you do not know their name you are writing to them blindly and you must have blind faith that they will reply and be helpful. With this faith in mind you must use faithfully.

If you know the name of the person you are writing to then you are in a stronger position to be sincere in your letter to them: use sincerely

Sincerely or faithfully: another way to remember which one to use.

Many people remember it like this:

Never use Sir with Sincerely

So if you open with Dear Sir or Madam you will never end with sincerely; you will use faithfully.

Remember that a covering email is usually a little less formal and frequently uses less stuffy ways to sign off ; you may use lighter language to sign off such as Regards.

Perhaps you have your own ways of remembering valedictions. Leave your own ideas in the comments section.

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Cover Letter , CV , Jobsearch

3 Responses to Sincerely or Faithfully?

The usage of “sincerely” and “faithfully” as described above is nonsense. If you only know a person’s name you clearly do not know the person so “faithfully” is the only valediction that can be used. The meanings of the nouns “person” and “name” are not synonymous but in the above criteria they have been used as such.

Person : A human being regarded as an individual

Name : A word or set of words by which a person or thing is known, addressed, or referred to i.e. label

One then has to clarify what is considered to be the meaning of to know a person. As the noun “person” in this case is the object the word “know” has the following meaning:

[WITH OBJECT] Have developed a relationship with (someone) through meeting and spending time with them; be familiar or friendly with:

It would therefore seem that “faithfully” is the only valediction unless one has met the addressee! It would seem that the above guide to usage is pretty much useless. I was taught if you know the person “sincerely” and if you don’t know the person “faithfully”. KNOWING A NAME IS NOT KNOWING A PERSON! I’m not a scholar of the English language but I do understand that “person” and “name” mean different things. I would seem that English guidelines have been adulterated to allow the one size fits all American usage.

Oxford University Press does not agree that this is nonsense:

“The wording at the end of a business letter follows a standard format: If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with Yours sincerely. If your letter begins with Dear Sir or Dear Madam, it should end with Yours faithfully.”

Citation: http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/words/business-letters

Regardless of your sensible, laudable, logical, and probably better suggestion, the convention is as the Job Fox describes, namely (pun intended) “Sir doesn’t go with sincerely”.

To use faithfully where you know the name, but have otherwise no knowledge of the person, will look odd to most people and distract from the purpose of the letter.

Having said that, language changes. Maybe when you were at school, your definition was more generally accepted, but since then the custom has changed. Maybe in a couple of generations, the distinction between sincerely and faithfully will be less known and so widely disregarded that it becomes irrelevant. Maybe we’ll just put a smiley and hit send.

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"Yours sincerely", "Yours faithfully," and "Yours truly"

When to use "yours sincerely", "yours faithfully," and "yours truly".

The Quick Answer

  • If you know the recipient or use their name, end your letter with 'Sincerely yours' (US) or 'Yours sincerely' (UK).
  • If you don't know the recipient or don't use their name, end your letter 'Yours truly' (US) or 'Yours faithfully' (UK).

Starting and Ending Letters

yours sincerely faithfully truly

"Yours sincerely" or "Yours faithfully"?

Use "yours faithfully" ( ) or "yours truly" ( ) for unknown recipients.

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Use "Yours sincerely" ( ) or "Sincerely yours" ( ) for Known Recipients

With "yours sincerely" and "yours faithfully" give only the first word a capital letter.

correct tick

Follow "Yours sincerely" and "Yours faithfully" with a Comma

Write the salutation, postamble, and your name by hand, top tip: don't use "s" twice.

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  • Sincerely Yours | Meaning, When to Use & Examples

Sincerely Yours | Meaning, When to Use & Examples

Published on December 16, 2022 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on June 27, 2023.

Sincerely yours is a standard sign-off, used to end an email or letter, followed by your name on the next line. “Sincerely” is an adverb meaning “genuinely” and is used to emphasize your honest intentions toward the person addressed.

This sign-off is relatively formal, but according to some authorities it should only be used when writing to someone you already know, not a complete stranger. An alternative like “ Yours truly ” should be used with someone you’ve never written to before.

I am writing to inform you …

Sincerely yours,

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Table of contents

Yours sincerely or sincerely yours, sincerely on its own, sincerely, truly, or faithfully, other interesting language articles, frequently asked questions.

The order in which you write the two words depends on whether you’re writing in US or UK English :

  • In US English , Sincerely yours is the normal word order.
  • In UK English , Yours sincerely is used instead.

Sincerely yours, / Yours sincerely,

Check for common mistakes

Use the best grammar checker available to check for common mistakes in your text.

A popular alternative, particularly in the US, is to write Sincerely on its own, without including “yours” at all. This usage is now more common than the version with “yours” in US business correspondence. It conveys a slightly less formal tone, although still not casual.

Use this sign-off in US correspondence if you want to tone down the formality slightly without becoming overly informal. In the UK, where it hasn’t gained as much popularity, it’s still safest to stick with Yours sincerely .

Sincerely can also be replaced with either faithfully or truly in formal correspondence. Both these alternatives are supposed to be used when writing to a person you haven’t interacted with before, especially if you addressed them as “Dear Sir or Madam.”

Their popularity again varies between US and UK English:

  • Yours truly is more popular in US English .
  • Yours faithfully is standard in UK English .

Note that the rules of when to use each one are followed less strictly in US correspondence. Yours truly is often used whether you know the person or not, and people are unlikely to object to it.

Yours truly, / Yours faithfully,

If you want to know more about commonly confused words , definitions , and differences between US and UK spellings , make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.

Confused words

  • Affect vs effect
  • Further vs farther
  • Loose vs lose
  • Whose vs who’s

Definitions

  • Bear with me
  • Presumptuous

US vs. UK spellings

  • Burned or burnt
  • Canceled or cancelled
  • Dreamt or dreamed
  • Gray or grey
  • Theater vs theatre

Sincerely is an adverb meaning “genuinely” or “honestly.” It’s related to the adjective “sincere.” It’s commonly used on its own or in combination with “yours” as a sign-off at the end of an email message or letter. It’s a formal way of ending a message that emphasizes your honest intentions toward the recipient.

It’s also used in other contexts to emphasize the genuineness of a feeling (e.g., “I am sincerely sorry for my comments”).

“Your sincerely” is a mistake; the correct spelling of the phrase used as a sign-off for email messages and letters is Yours sincerely .

The possessive pronoun “Yours” is needed, not the possessive determiner “Your.” A determiner like “your” doesn’t stand on its own but modifies a noun.

Traditionally, the sign-off Sincerely or Yours sincerely is used in an email message or letter when you are writing to someone you have interacted with before, not a complete stranger.

Yours truly is used instead when you are writing to someone you have had no previous correspondence with, especially if you greeted them as “ Dear Sir or Madam .” But the difference is no longer strictly observed in US English, and you can generally use Yours truly for someone you know without any issues.

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Grammarhow

“Yours Faithfully” or “Yours Sincerely”? Best Choice In Formal Letters

When signing a letter, you can use a few options to end it. “Yours faithfully” and “yours sincerely” are two such options, and this article will look at which is best in formal letters. There are certain rules to follow when using both, so we’ll cover those as well.

Is “Yours Faithfully” Or “Yours Sincerely” The Best Choice For Ending Formal Letters?

Both choices are good for ending formal letters. You should use “yours faithfully” when starting the letter with “dear sir/ madam ” or when you don’t know the recipient’s name. You should use “yours sincerely” when using a personal name or if you know the recipient.

Is "Yours Faithfully" Or "Yours Sincerely" The Best Choice For Ending Formal Letters?

We refer to both of these statements as “complementary closes.”

They are present at the end of almost every formal email or letter, and we use them to close off before writing our name. Both are correct, and it only depends on how well you know the person you’re writing a letter to that determines which of them you should use.

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When To Use “Yours Faithfully”

We’ll start by going through how “yours faithfully” works.

You should use “yours faithfully” when you don’t know the name of the recipient of your letter. Instead, you’ll write “dear sir” or “dear madam” to address them, meaning you “faithfully” sign off at the end.

We use “yours” here to show that we’re pleased that they’ve allowed us the time to read our letter. It means “this is now yours” and works well to show formality in most cases.

You might see “yours faithfully” in the following ways:

  • I hope this letter finds you well, as I have much to share with you.
  • Yours faithfully,
  • Mr. Tidings
  • Dear ma’am,
  • I am writing this letter to share my displeasure with you, and I hope you will read the contents thoroughly.
  • Mrs. Simmons
  • To whom this may concern,
  • I hope my letter reaches you well. It has been brought to my attention that my concerns raised in the previous meeting have yet to be addressed.
  • Harry Hubert

“Sir,” “madam,” and similar titles are correct to use in this case. We do this when we’re not sure who might receive the letter or want to keep our formalities appropriate.

We can also use phrases like “to whom it may concern” when we have no idea who is going to receive our letter. “Yours faithfully” still applies in these cases, too.

When To Use “Yours Sincerely” And “Sincerely Yours”

“Yours sincerely” works when we do know the name. Some people also sign it backward and use “sincerely yours,” though this isn’t a common trope.

You should use “yours sincerely” when addressing someone by their name or with a personal title. Addressing some like “Mr. Smith” or “Daniel Webster” are appropriate times to use “yours sincerely” at the end of your letter.

Whether we only know the surname or the full name doesn’t matter. As long as we know an element of their personal name, we are able to use “yours sincerely” to sign off the letter.

The content of the letter will be much the same as what you can expect from “yours faithfully.” Nothing changes in the contents. It’s simply related to who you address and whether you’re familiar with them.

Some examples might help to make sense of this:

  • Dear Mr. Jackson,
  • I hope this letter finds you well. I’m more than happy to take you on board as a new client.
  • Yours sincerely,
  • Freddy Jones
  • Dear Jackie Paulson,
  • I am writing this letter to tell you all about the discoveries I made when I was abroad.
  • Sincerely yours,
  • Mr. Tomkins
  • Dear Mrs. Harrison,
  • I am writing a letter to you now to ask that you reconsider your decision before the council meeting!
  • Milo Mikkelson

“Sincerely yours” and “yours sincerely” are interchangeable. As long as we address the recipient by name, we can use either closing statement to end our letter.

It’s much more likely that you’ll see “yours sincerely” at the end of a letter than “sincerely yours.” Most native speakers put “yours” first because it stays more in line with other phrases like “yours faithfully” and “yours truly.”

Is It Right To Say “Sincerely Yours”?

There is nothing wrong with using “sincerely yours” in your letters, even though it’s not the most common choice for native speakers.

It might help to look through common usage across American and British English. Sometimes, this helps us to understand whether the phrase is worth learning at all.

According to Google Ngram Viewer , “sincerely yours” and “yours sincerely” are used almost identically in American English. However, neither phrase is particularly popular, as you can see from the rapid decline over the last 200 years.

Sincerely yours vs Yours sinerely - American English

According to Google Ngram Viewer , “yours sincerely” is much more popular in British English, and it’s rare that British speakers will ever use “sincerely yours” in their letters or emails.

Sincerely yours vs Yours sinerely - British English

While American English doesn’t have a preference between the two, British English clearly favors “yours sincerely.”

The exact reason why this is the case is unclear, though it’s taught that “yours sincerely” is the only correct option in British schools. American English like to sway away from standardized rules, so they might have introduced “sincerely yours” as their own unique language construct.

When To Use “Yours Truly”

There is another option that we haven’t covered yet. “Yours truly” is a fairly popular phrase, and seeing how we use it in different languages will show you why.

According to Google Ngram Viewer , “yours truly” is vastly more popular than both “sincerely” and “faithfully” in American English. That’s because “yours truly” is the equivalent of “yours faithfully” to most American English speakers.

yours sincerely vs yours faithfully vs yours truly - American English

According to Google Ngram Viewer , “yours truly” is still more popular than the other two choices but much less popular overall in British English. It seems that all three phrases are used almost to the same degree, and British English has no particular preference.

yours sincerely vs yours faithfully vs yours truly - British English

You should use “yours truly” when you do not know the name of the recipient of your letter, just like “yours faithfully.” However, it’s much more likely that you’ll come across this in American English rather than British English.

Some examples might help you to understand it better:

  • I hope this letter reaches you in time, as what I have to say is of high value.
  • Yours truly,
  • Madam Lopez
  • To whoever receives this letter,
  • I hope that I’m not out of line here, but I have many issues that I’d like to raise before the next government meeting.
  • Dear sir/madam,
  • I am writing this formal letter to criticize the abysmal performance of the staff I’ve noticed in your establishment in recent times.
  • Karen Sinister

Why Is It “Yours Faithfully” And Not “Your Faithfully”?

So, why do we use “yours” in the phrase? We could just as easily use “your” since we’re only talking to one person, right?

You should use “yours” because it’s addressing “your” in the possessive form, meaning that the recipient now owns the contents of the letter. “Your” isn’t the possessive form, meaning it doesn’t make any sense to sign off in this way.

Does This Rule Also Count For “Yours Truly” And “Your Truly”?

The same rules apply no matter what way you choose to sign off your letters.

“Yours truly” is the only correct way to sign off because we need to use “yours” as the possessive form. There are no cases where “your truly” is correct to use.

Synonyms For “Yours Faithfully” And “Yours Sincerely”

While “yours faithfully” and “yours sincerely” are great ways to end a letter, there are still plenty of synonyms out there. We’ll include a good number of them, and we’ll finish off this section by telling you whether any of them are better to use than the original two.

  • Best wishes
  • Kind regards
  • Kindest regards
  • Respectfully
  • Best regards
  • Yours truly

The best options are “yours faithfully” or “yours truly” when you don’t know the name of the recipient and “yours sincerely” when you do know it. In formal writing, these are the only options you should consider.

With that said, we’d like to point out that “kind regards” is a great formal choice, but we mostly use it in emails. You’ll rarely (if ever) see it used in a letter, so you should avoid doing so.

Also, if you’re looking for informal options, we believe “best wishes” is your best choice. It’s a great way to sign a letter or email for someone that you know and trust, and you don’t mind too much about the professional tone of the letter.

Of course, you’re free to use whichever of the synonyms you prefer, but there really is no comparison worth being made over “yours faithfully,” “yours truly,” or “yours sincerely.”

You may also like: 12 Better Ways To Say “Sincerely” In Formal Emails

Final Thoughts

“Yours sincerely” and “yours faithfully” are great ways to end a formal letter and work based on whether you know the name of the recipient or not. “Yours truly” is another valid option, but you should stick to one of those three in all cases regarding formal letter writing.

martin lassen dam grammarhow

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here .

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Three excellent cover letter examples

Cover letters are the first chance you have to impress an employer – they’re not just a protective jacket for your CV. Here’s our guide on what to include and how to format them

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The first thing a potential employer sees in your job application is the cover letter. This doesn’t just support your CV – it’s an opportunity for you to stand out from the crowd and persuade the recruiter to put you through to the next round.

Be wary of spending hours on perfecting your CV at the expense of your cover letter. If you need some inspiration on what to include and what format to use, here are our helpful guides – just remember not to copy them as exact templates.

1. Standard, conservative style

This is ideal for sectors such as business, law, accountancy and retail. For more creative sectors, a letter like this might be less appealing, and could work against you.

Dear Mr Black, Please find enclosed my CV in application for the post advertised in the Guardian on 30 November. The nature of my degree course has prepared me for this position. It involved a great deal of independent research, requiring initiative, self-motivation and a wide range of skills. For one course, [insert course], an understanding of the [insert sector] industry was essential. I found this subject very stimulating. I am a fast and accurate writer, with a keen eye for detail and I should be very grateful for the opportunity to progress to market reporting. I am able to take on the responsibility of this position immediately, and have the enthusiasm and determination to ensure that I make a success of it. Thank you for taking the time to consider this application and I look forward to hearing from you in the near future. Yours sincerely

2. Standard speculative letter

This may vary according to the nature of the organisation and the industry you’re applying to.

Dear Mr Brown, I am writing to enquire if you have any vacancies in your company. I enclose my CV for your information. As you can see, I have had extensive vacation work experience in office environments, the retail sector and service industries, giving me varied skills and the ability to work with many different types of people. I believe I could fit easily into your team. I am a conscientious person who works hard and pays attention to detail. I’m flexible, quick to pick up new skills and eager to learn from others. I also have lots of ideas and enthusiasm. I’m keen to work for a company with a great reputation and high profile like [insert company name]. I have excellent references and would be delighted to discuss any possible vacancy with you at your convenience. In case you do not have any suitable openings at the moment, I would be grateful if you would keep my CV on file for any future possibilities. Yours sincerely

3. Letter for creative jobs

We’ve used the example of a copywriter but you can adapt it for your profession. The aim of a creative letter is to be original and show you have imagination, but understand what the job entails. Balance is essential: don’t be too wacky, or it will turn off the reader.

Dear Ms Green, · Confused by commas? · Puzzled by parenthesis? · Stumped by spelling? · Perturbed by punctuation? · Annoyed at the apostrophe? (And alliteration?) Well, you’re not alone. It seems that fewer and fewer people can write. Unfortunately, there are still a lot of people who can read. So they’ll spot a gaffe from a mile off. And that means it’s a false economy, unless you’re 100% sure of yourself, to write your own materials. (Or to let clients do it for themselves.) To have materials properly copywritten is, when one considers the whole process of publishing materials and the impact that the client wishes to make, a minor expense. Sloppiness loses clients, loses customers. There is an answer. Me. Firm quotes are free. You can see some of what I do on my multilingual website at [insert web address]. If you’d like, I can get some samples out to you within 24 hours. And, if you use me, you’ll have some sort of guarantee that you can sleep soundly as those tens of thousands of copies are rolling off the presses. Luck shouldn’t come into it! With kindest regards

Other helpful resources

How to write a perfect CV and cover letter

Applying for jobs without experience? How to build and sell your skills

Five steps to the perfect graduate CV

School-leavers and graduates: how to write your first CV

How to write a personal statement for your CV

CV templates to fit every stage of your career

Looking for a job? Browse Guardian Jobs for your next career step.

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  • Condolences & What To Say

60 Best Alternatives to ‘Sincerely’ for a Card, Email or Text

Updated 12/27/2023

Published 02/26/2020

Amy Wolkenhauer, BA in English/Creative Writing

Amy Wolkenhauer, BA in English/Creative Writing

Contributing writer

Finish either a personal or professional correspondence with one of these alternatives to 'sincerely.'

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

Using the appropriate letter closing can save you from some TMI with the local florist, help you solidify that perfect cover letter, or show appreciation for someone’s time via email or snail mail. 

Jump ahead to these sections:

  • Informal or Personal Alternatives to Sincerely

Formal or Business Alternatives to Sincerely

Alternatives to sincerely for a cover letter, alternatives to sincerely for a condolence or sympathy card, funny alternatives to sincerely, friendly alternatives to sincerely.

To craft the best closing, reflect back on the content of your correspondence, and consider how you want to leave the conversation—so to speak. While the good old “sincerely” may be appropriate, it’s also dated and may lack that oomph you might be looking for. Explore some of the options listed to see what serves you best!

Informal or Personal Alternatives to Sincerely 

Example of alternative to writing Sincerely with image of pencils

This is a place where you can be as creative as you like. Alternatively, you can stick to some safe options that are both sentimental and sweet, perfect for an informal email, ecard, or physical card ( like this small pack of blank greeting cards .) You’ll find both options below.

1. With Love,

This sweet letter closing adds more than just a simple little "love." It's perfect for an email, birthday card, or floral arrangement card. This closing fills the need to magnify your feelings, yet it prevents you from having to share too much with the local florist.

2. Happy Summer!

This exuberant letter closing should reflect the content of the email. Perhaps you want to express how you feel about the impending time off. Or maybe you've been having a wonderful summer and want to share the sentiment.

3. I hope you have a great day!

This letter closing takes the typical farewell and makes it into something so much more sincere.

It's the perfect closing in a card for an extended family member with whom you have a bond, whether they are an aunt, uncle, or cousin. This message can also work as an opening for an email, similar to " I hope you're doing well ."

4. Warmest Regards,

This letter closing is appropriate when you’d like to sign off in a warm, empathetic, and caring manner. The closing also works well when you are on the receiving end of sympathy and goodwill like a funeral thank you card or a get well card .

5. Bye for now…

This email or letter closing is open-ended. It's perfect for the neighbor with whom you stay in touch or check up on as well as any old classmate from high school or college.  

6. Gotta Boogie!

This text closing is perfect for that old friend with whom you spent most of your formative years. It may sound a little dated, but if you want to leave them with a smile and fond memories, this may be a way to do it.

7. Lots of Love,

This closing works for times when someone needs a lot of encouragement.

For example, if you have a niece or nephew struggling at home or in school, this closing tells them to " stay strong " and offers the support they need to hear. It also works as a sympathy message for anyone who has lost a loved one.

8. Your Friend,

While this email sign-off may seem a bit bland, it's the opposite of boring. The closing is really nothing but honest and completely sincere, which makes it the best for someone with whom you have a beautiful friendship.

9. Yours ‘til the Cat Meows!

This closing also relates to the honesty of a friendship, but perhaps this one is a bit more magical.

It's a beautiful closing for the person in your life who just gets you, and no matter how much time lapses, whenever you get together, it's like no time has passed at all.

10. Yours Respectfully,

If you’re sending along get well wishes for your boss or other company personnel, this phrase can tie up your message in a bow. 

You can maintain the separation of work-home life while letting them know you have heard about their situation.

Example of formal or business alternatives to Sincerely

The selections below relate to both you as the consumer as well as you as a business associate seeking information. Here, your correspondence will either resonate or flub, so pick one that’s best suited for the situation, whether you're sending a corporate sympathy gift basket or a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers .

11. Cordially,

This ending is suitable for anyone who wants to remain as neutral as possible without resorting to the standard "sincerely."

It works well if you have met or corresponded a few times, but the relationship is very much in a business-to-business channel.

12. Yours Respectfully,

Finishing an email with “yours respectfully” wraps up a correspondence you have had with a business associate in some capacity or other. It is also neutral enough to make you feel like you’re on a level playing field.

13. Best Regards,

Trying out your formal email formula? Sticking with “best regards” is perfectly acceptable in almost any situation from a professional-professional setting or to a student-mentor setting.

14. With Appreciation,

Should you be looking for advice or help from someone in a professional circumstance, this could be a nice way to remind them of your interest.

Also, if you have had some prior contact, this is also useful to send in the follow-up and closing letter suggesting that your business needs have been met.

15. Warmly,

A lot of times over email, you can develop a friendly connection with someone over time and have shared some laughs over the long-term.

Ending an email with the word “warmly” is suitable if you have been working one-on-one with regards to a project. It may be a little awkward however if you send it to more than a few close work folks.

16. Thank you for your assistance in this matter,

This formal closing phrase may work when you have concerns or complaints with a product or person within the company. It can also be a way to find out more about an item's warranty, the company guarantee, or a possible replacement.

17. Thank you for your time,

When you are unfamiliar with someone, but you know that they are doing you a favor by addressing your query, saying thank you for your time is always good. It shows that person that although you are adding to their work pile, you also appreciate the time they spend helping you.

18. Your help is greatly appreciated,

Like the above, this closing reflects on your knowledge of someone having worked diligently to make sure your request has not gone unnoticed. 

19. Thank you for your recommendation,

When someone has responded to your initial question, send your gratitude over by wrapping up your message with this.

Saying thanks for a recommendation helps especially if you are new in town or at a job and need help finding some things.

20. In Appreciation,

If all else fails, remind someone that you appreciate them for their work. If someone has gone above and beyond to help you, consider using this term to add the right ending to your message of thanks.

Example of alternative to writing Sincerely in a cover letter

Finding a new job is already stressful, so don’t go over the top with a letter closing here. Keep it simple and let your resume do most of the talking.

21. Thank You,

This is easily one of the best cover letter closings to a cover letter. You don't need to put any more thought into it, and no one will look at it as lacking in any way.

22. Thank You for Your Consideration,

Sometimes the candidate pools are very big. When they are, this cover letter closing will let HR and the hiring manager than you are grateful for the time they took to actually read through your resume and cover letter.

23. Respectfully,

Again as mentioned above, using the word respectfully can help remind folks of your admiration for the work they do.

24. Respectfully Yours,

If you have developed a relationship with the hiring manager or a human resources staffer at a company, finishing up an email or letter with “respectfully yours” will let them know how much you value their help while maintaining the professional balance.

25. Most Sincerely, 

This mildly personal phrase is a simple but effective flourish when you're filling out your cover letter for admission to an undergrad, post-baccalaureate, or master's program.

Because you are looking to cultivate a strong relationship with multiple mentors, being sincere helps when applying for a job afterward.

26. With Best Regards,

“Best Regards” can elicit a sense of understanding or a bolster good relationship you may have with an admissions counselor or hiring manager. It assumes a little bit more but remains understated.

27. Kind Regards,

This cover letter closing is next to the best closing to a simple thank you. It's also very understated, lacks nothing, and will not be questioned for impertinence or insincerity.

When you're just trying to get some experience writing cover letters, this closing won't raise or lower your resume's position on the pile. If you’re looking to wrap it up succinctly, this is perfectly fine in a pinch.

29. Happy Regards,

In the event that you’re applying for a job thanks to a great network connection, using happy regards can be a positive marker to top off your letter.

But also err on the side of caution if you’re not as familiar with the hiring folks or the people who will be interviewing you, as it can sound a bit awkward and unprofessional.

30. Best Regards, 

And finally, “Best Regards” is the most accepted and succinct way of finishing up a cover letter. The closing says that you are eager and business savvy, and they have a lot to look forward to from you.

Continue to offer emotional support with your closing words on any condolence or sympathy card using one of the following options.

31. Sending our love,

This message is a simple but perfect alternative to using ‘sincerely.’ Though you and your family can’t be there, it says you’re sending as much of your love as possible.

32. Our hearts continue to be with you all,

Writing that your collective hearts are with others while they grieve assures them your love extends beyond that hour or day. It’s also for every moment after that that your loved ones need uplifting, talk to, or a shoulder to cry on.

33. You’re in our prayers,

Religious or spiritual closings convey that you’re bringing loved ones into your contemplations, meditations, and continued thoughts. Share it with anyone who understands that this is how your heart works when supporting others.

34. May God hold you in His heart,

Here’s another closing that’ll reflect your religious values. The one just prior is internal and reflective, whereas this one is more of a plea for God’s assistance.

35. You are loved, 

When loss is present, loneliness plays havoc on a person’s mental state. To help, leave this message so your loved one knows that there are people who think about them — and love them.

36. With deep sympathy,

Close your letter indicating that you share a common understanding of your loved one’s sorrow, pain, and continued heartache. Let them know you’re compassionate towards their feelings.

37. Forever in our hearts, 

Though a person may have died, they remain in people’s thoughts, hearts, and conversations. Most people want you to continue mentioning their loved ones because it keeps their memory alive.

38. You’re in our hearts, 

This closing indicates that your friend or loved one is in your present thoughts and will continue to be central in conversation or emotions. 

39. Wishing your family peace and strength, 

Sorrow caused by the loss of a loved one can be so overwhelming that the two things that are certainly toughest to muster are peace and strength. Wish that for your loved one and their family so they may find it sooner rather than later.

40. With loving memories of Hugo,

If you like or if the culture indicates it’s appropriate, go ahead and mention the name of the person who died. And then continue to keep them alive in future conversations or even gift-giving. 

Check below for sarcasm and humor using iconic phrasing from bygone eras, movie or television catchphrases, radio communication, and some obvious cultural references.

41. Rock on,

Never out of date is the iconic party and celebratory phrasing of ‘rock on.’ Use it to indicate your support for anyone maintaining that youthful rock star glow or mentality.

42. You’re a gift that keeps on giving all year long,

This phrase comes straight out of the “Christmas Vacation” movie. It conjures up memories of a non-nutritive varnish on a metal snow disc, frozen features while hunting for the perfect tree, and visits by the best-in-show family members.

43. Keep on keepin’ on, 

One interpretation is to keep going, building, and climbing, or at the very least, maintain the current lifestyle. Another might be to hold steady until the storm passes.

44. God save the Queen,

If you’re a British Royalist, this closing line indicates loyalty, but it’s all about having a good time if you love the punk scene. 

45. Burn after reading, 

Here’s a closing remark for sending sensitive material, including secrets or gossip. 

Or use it when your letter is completely mundane and boring for the effect of sarcasm.

46. Over and out, 

When you’ve had a long talk via emails or texts, use ‘over and out’ to indicate you’ve reached the fullness of time on that subject.

47. Right on.

Some phrases have several meanings—and this is one of them. In this instance, leave ‘right on’ without any additional signatures to indicate and emphasize positive conclusions. 

48. Power to the people.

In the 60s and 70s, this phrase meant empowerment for the masses. And like all good things, a lot of ideas come back around. So, if you’ve been chatting about making improvements in your life or community, drop this at the end of your conversation.

49. Damn the man. 

Leave ‘damn the man’ at the end of your conversation stream for a genuinely sarcastic point of view regarding government, policy, and more. 

Or insert it to mean that you support your friend’s journey despite the hurdles they’re about to encounter.

50. Be good and be good at it, 

Using an ‘and’ in contrast to an ‘or’ in this particular sign-off is about conjuring the best of oneself when striving for improvement. Add it to your closing if you’ve just left an uplifting character report of your friend, trying to build them up so they can climb that mountain.

Below are closing messages from the perspective of mentorship, long friendships, companions, and fur kids. 

51. In Solidarity,

Being in solidarity means having something in common, being supportive, having the same purpose or goal, and having someone’s back.

Use it if you’re showing support for a friend going through a rough time or if you’re part of a nonprofit or social goods organization.

52. To Be Continued, 

Long-term relationships understand life’s sequels and sagas. Over time, your conversations build and build into one beautiful story.

With this closing, you never have to say ‘goodbye’ or ‘farewell.’ Instead, you leave the ending open to whatever comes your way.

Aloha has a few meanings: hello and goodbye, living in harmony with the natural world, and respecting the earth and each other. 

It’s not your typical closing from, say, a Midwesterner, but it would certainly work if you’re vacationing in Hawaii or just returned with a new outlook on life.

54. Peace out,

‘Peace out’ works for meaningful friendships instead of anything business-related. You wouldn’t use it if you were chatting up HR about a new job or complaining about a product. That said, it could work for your surf shop newsletter.

55. Stop being afraid of getting older, 

Without sounding too pretentious, you can impart some wisdom in your closing statements that aptly apply to your conversations with others.

This one works for the person whose worry-ometer about aging is off the charts.

56. Remember - words and ideas can change the world,

If your role in the relationship is as a mentor or sage, leave lasting bits of encouragement in your email closings like this one.

Give your friends opportunities to realize their potential, intimating or giving voice to the wisdom they already possess.

57. Always in my thoughts, 

This closing would work for those impenetrable and deep friendships. You’re not suggesting anything out of line or context when you use it. It’s really about letting someone know you value them.

58. I ruff you fur-ever,

Furkids are getting in on this action, too. This one is tame, but watch out for those goofballs who can get cheesier with their pet puns. Gotta love it. 

59. Be safe, healthy, and happy,

Send healthy wishes instead of just leaving a blah ‘sincerely’ after your message. Wish them good fortune, favor, and more to show your overall love and support.

60. Stay as you are,

I don’t know about you, but most people start a friendship with someone because they’re unique and wonderful, right? Then let them know to keep on with all that loveliness and not change a bit.

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IMAGES

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  4. Sample Letter Yours Sincerely

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  6. Job Application Letter Yours Sincerely

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COMMENTS

  1. How To End a Cover Letter (With Closing Examples)

    Photo: Hugo Lin / The Balance. How to write a closing for a cover letter, examples of the best closings to use to end a cover letter, and tips and advice for signing a cover letter.

  2. How to Close a Cover Letter: 60 Examples of Strong Closing Statements

    Both 'Kind regards' and 'Yours sincerely' are acceptable and professional ways to end a cover letter. You can choose which one you feel most comfortable with or suits your individual style. In general, 'Kind regards' is a safe and widely used option, while 'Yours sincerely' is considered a bit more formal.

  3. How To Close a Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)

    A pair of hands types on a laptop, working on a cover letter. There's also a list entitled, "Qualities of an Effective Cover Letter Sign-off" that includes these steps: 1. Express confidence 2. Be passionate 3. Connect your qualifications to the position 4. State your goals and expectations 5. Connect o the company's goals and values 6. Focus on technical expertise 7.

  4. How to End a Cover Letter? Closing Examples & Tips

    Select an appropriate formal closing: Best regards, Sincerely, or Thank you. End your cover letter on a high note. Show that you feel enthusiastic about the position, too. Offer value to the manager in your cover letter ending. Be direct and strong. Use "P.S." to draw attention to your cover letter closing.

  5. How To Use "Sincerely Yours" in an Email

    The first S stands for "Sir" as in the greeting, "Dear Sir or Madam.". The second S stands for "Sincerely.". The second requirement is that the sender must know the recipient to some degree. Therefore, if you researched the name of the hiring manager for the salutation of a cover letter, you can only use "Yours sincerely" as a ...

  6. How to End a Cover Letter (+Closing Paragraph Examples)

    In a cover letter closing paragraph, "different" should mean, "more competent.". Here are three big how to end cover letters mistakes: The pushy ending a cover letter method: I will make it rain all over your damn department! The needy boyfriend closing paragraph cover letter: Please, please give me the job.

  7. How to End a Cover Letter (With Tips and Templates)

    Include a professional signoff. Follow the conventions of letter writing by providing a formal ending to your letter. If your salutation was either 'Dear Sir' or 'Dear Madam,' end your letter with 'Yours faithfully.'. If you addressed the recipient with their name at the beginning, you should sign off with the phrase 'Sincerely.'.

  8. How to End a Cover Letter with Examples

    How to end a cover letter (4 writing tips) There are four things you should do when writing a cover letter ending: Include a strong concluding paragraph. Connect your experience to the company's goals. Remember to thank the employer. Write a compelling CTA. 1. Include a strong concluding paragraph.

  9. How to End a Cover Letter [Closing + Sign-Off Examples]

    This part of your cover letter is also referred to as the complimentary close. Here's how to do it. For more formal and traditional job sectors and careers use these cover letter closes: Cover Letter Sign Off Examples—Traditional Careers. Use "Yours sincerely" if you know the addressee's name, e.g. 'Dear Mr Sergeant'.

  10. How to Start and End a Cover Letter

    The Sign Off - How to end a cover letter. There are only two choices: Yours sincerely or Yours faithfully. Here's a very simple way of remembering whether you end with Yours sincerely or Yours faithfully. "You can never have more than one ' S ' in a salutation and signoff.". Therefore - Dear S ir & Yours s incerely - should ...

  11. Cover Letters

    Here are some examples of how to sign a cover letter electronically. The first example contains the very least you should include (name, email address, and phone number). The third is the ideal example of how to sign a cover letter via email. Example 1: Sincerely yours, Mary Washington [email protected] 70997654. Example 2: Best ...

  12. Cover letters

    How to write a cover letter. A cover letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to think about your application. It's a short letter, usually 3 to 5 paragraphs long. ... Make sure your contact details are correct on both your cover letter and CV. Yours sincerely or yours faithfully. If you know the name of the person you're writing ...

  13. Cover letter mistakes and how to avoid them

    If you have addressed the receiver as sir or madam, you should sign off with 'Yours faithfully'. If you have addressed the receiver by name, then 'yours sincerely' is best. Check our the Unitemps cover letter template for an example of what to do. 5. Write a new cover letter for every job role. Writing cover letters shouldn't be ...

  14. Yours Sincerely

    Revised on 27 June 2023. Yours sincerely is a standard sign-off, used to end an email or letter, followed by your name on the next line. 'Sincerely' is an adverb meaning 'genuinely' and is used to emphasise your honest intentions toward the person addressed. This sign-off is relatively formal, but it should usually only be used when ...

  15. Cover letter: Final statement and ending salutation

    The cover letter (US and Canada), or covering letter (UK), is a letter that expresses your motivation for applying for a certain job position or placement. ... 'Sincerely' (US) and 'Yours sincerely' (UK) are the most common greetings if you know the person's name. If you do not, however, and have used the salutation, 'Dear Sir or ...

  16. How to End a Letter Sincerely: 14+ Ideas (With Examples)

    Hope to hear from you soon. When writing to a friend, you could shorten the phrase and say, "Talk soon.". 5. "Thank you for your time" Use "Thank you for your time" when asking for a professional favor. It's polite and sincere because it thanks the reader for taking the time to read your message in the first place.

  17. Sincerely or Faithfully? How To Write A Cover Letter

    By JobFox UK on March 24, 2012 in Cover Letters. If you know the name of the person you're writing to ('Dear Jane…') use sincerely. If you don't know the name of the name of the person you're addressing then you should use faithfully. Emails tend me be less formal than traditional letters so you could always keep it simple and use ...

  18. Yours sincerely

    Starting and Ending Letters. Letters that start "Dear Sir," should end "Yours truly" (US convention) or "Yours faithfully" (UK convention). Letters that start with a name (e.g., "Dear Mr. Jones"), should end "Sincerely yours" (US convention) or "Yours sincerely" (UK convention). This infographic summarizes the different scenarios:

  19. Sincerely Yours

    Revised on June 27, 2023. Sincerely yours is a standard sign-off, used to end an email or letter, followed by your name on the next line. "Sincerely" is an adverb meaning "genuinely" and is used to emphasize your honest intentions toward the person addressed. This sign-off is relatively formal, but according to some authorities it ...

  20. "Yours Faithfully" or "Yours Sincerely"? Best Choice In Formal Letters

    Both choices are good for ending formal letters. You should use "yours faithfully" when starting the letter with "dear sir/ madam " or when you don't know the recipient's name. You should use "yours sincerely" when using a personal name or if you know the recipient. We refer to both of these statements as "complementary closes

  21. Three excellent cover letter examples

    Yours sincerely. 3. Letter for creative jobs. We've used the example of a copywriter but you can adapt it for your profession. The aim of a creative letter is to be original and show you have ...

  22. 60 Best Alternatives to 'Sincerely' for a Card, Email or Text

    When they are, this cover letter closing will let HR and the hiring manager than you are grateful for the time they took to actually read through your resume and cover letter. 23. Respectfully, Again as mentioned above, using the word respectfully can help remind folks of your admiration for the work they do. 24. Respectfully Yours,

  23. Writing Cover Letters For A Career Change: Tips And Examples

    Sincerely, [Your Name] Tweaks For Various Career Stages. Whether you are making a change early in your career or transitioning later, your cover letter should reflect your rationale and excitement ...