When coupled with a strong resume, cover letters can be a critical factor in getting an interview. Eighty-three percent of hiring managers and recruiters say they are important in making hiring decisions.
Cover letters also give you a chance to explain unique life and career situations not captured by your resume, and highlight what makes you a standout candidate for the job.
So how do you write a cover letter and what are the qualities of a job-winning example of an application letter? Look no further! Resume Now’s professionally written cover letter examples can help answer your questions and guide you through building a solid cover letter to support your resume.
Anatomy of an employment cover letter example
Once you’ve found an appropriate example, it’s time to put it to work.
The best cover letter examples:
- List contact details of the applicant and the employer correctly.
- Show you how to address an employer in the salutation appropriately.
- Provide a substantial introduction that conveys interest and intent.
- Express the job candidate’s personality.
- Are specific about work experience and include measurable achievements.
- Include an invitation for the employer to follow up.
- Show how to sign off professionally.
To get the most from a sample cover letter:
- Select the appropriate cover letter format for your industry and job title.
- Pick a cover letter template, which will provide the design and layout of your cover letter.
- Study the cover letter example for cover letter writing best practices.
- Use our Cover Letter Builder to build your cover letter quickly and easily.
- Complement your cover letter with a well-written resume.
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Good employment cover letter examples by industry and job title
Pick a sample cover letter for your resume below from a broad range of industries, job titles and experience levels. You’re sure to find one (or more!) great cover letter examples to guide you through the process of writing a cover letter that wins over hiring managers.
Some more Cover Letter Examples by Industry
Pro tip: Adding a personal touch to your cover letter is a must. You can do this by:
- Mentioning a shared connection if you have one.
- Adding words and phrases from the job description or the company’s mission that align with your experience.
- Showing how you can help the company meet its goals by highlighting past achievements.
- Using the hiring manager’s name when addressing your cover letter.
Good cover letter examples for unique job search situations
We’ve focused so far on standard cover letters, which are traditionally used to find work through an employment ad or an online job board. But some circumstances call for variations on the classic cover letter.
We offer the examples below as guides for tailoring your cover letter to match your unique job search situation:
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Benefits of using a sample cover letter for a job application
Good cover letter examples can help job candidates:
- Choose the appropriate cover letter format.
- Pick the best cover letter template for their job and industry.
- Ensure they are following accepted standards.
- Format their cover letters correctly.
- Decide what information to use and leave out.
- Set the proper tone for their cover letters.
- Pick the best keywords for their cover letters.
- Find the best words to express their experience and interest.
Pro tip: Research pays off!
It’s crucial to research the company before you write your cover letter. Studies show that employers give more consideration to applicants whose cover letters indicate they’ve researched the company over those who appear less interested.
How to choose good cover letter examples
Keep the following in mind when picking out a cover letter example:
Think about the job.
One of the best ways to ensure your cover letter is noticed by hiring managers is to customize it for the job. With that in mind, look for an employment cover letter sample that matches the job title and industry you want.
Consider your experience and goals.
Your cover letter should always reflect where you’ve been and where you’re going in your employment journey. For instance, if you aim to move into a higher position or a different role, you should explain in your cover letter why you’re making a move and show precisely why you’re a good fit. Find good cover letter examples that speak to your specific goals and experiences.
Review your skills and achievements.
An attention-grabbing cover letter always mentions the job seeker’s most relevant skills and achievements. Make sure you choose a sample cover letter for your resume that shows how to highlight your best job-relevant skills to your advantage.
Check your resume format and design.
Make sure the sample cover letter for your job application has a style consistent with your resume. A cover letter and a resume should work together to paint an attractive picture of your professional competence. While you don’t want your cover letter to repeat the contents of your resume, you should use the same header in the same font, and the designs should match.
More resources
But wait — that’s not all. We have many more articles on cover letters to support your job search.
Cover letter-writing articles:
Once your cover letter is in line, don’t forget about the main event — your resume.
We have an entire library of free articles on the subject.
Resume articles:
FAQ
What is a sample cover letter for a resume?
A sample cover letter for a resume, also known as a sample cover letter for a job application, is an industry-specific example that shows you what to include in a cover letter. A sample cover letter helps establish guidelines for formatting, content and tone, and provides other tips for applying to a variety of jobs. They also help you avoid common pitfalls and mistakes.
Where can I find cover letter samples?
You can find some of the best cover letter examples online through Resume Now’s Cover Letter Builder. Campus career centers or hiring agencies may also offer options.
What does a cover letter look like?
A cover letter looks like a standard business letter. It should contain a header with the job applicant’s contact information, the date, the employer’s contact information, a formal salutation (like “Dear Jane Doe”), an introductory paragraph, one- to three body paragraphs, a closing (like “Thank you,”) and the job candidate’s signature. A resume cover page example from our extensive library will show you what a cover letter looks like.
How do you write a good cover letter?
Begin by researching the position and the company to understand what they are looking for, then choose and study some great cover letter examples. Jot down your skills and experiences, choosing one or two for focus, then pick a cover letter template, and use it to craft a letter that shows your personality. Then use our Cover Letter Builder to write a letter you can download, save and send to a prospective employer. Every job requires a new cover letter, tailored to that specific position.
Are cover letters necessary?
Cover letters are not necessary for jobs that specifically say, “No cover letter.” Otherwise, you should include a cover letter with your resume every time. They help employers choose which candidates to interview and give you a chance to introduce yourself. We have some of the best cover letter examples for almost every job and industry to help you write a great letter.
Do I need a cover letter for an agency?
If you are submitting your resume to a talent agency, always include a brief but interesting cover letter. Talent agencies and hiring managers are looking for unique personalities to interview in person. You can find a resume cover page example in our library to help you craft a professional letter.
Is it OK to have a long cover letter?
A cover letter should be brief and to the point. Most hiring managers won’t have time to read anything longer than three to five short paragraphs on one page, so you need to catch and hold their attention right away. Our cover letter examples for job applications can help you write a succinct yet compelling letter that will have a big impact and make a great impression.
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