cover letter description of yourself

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Best Words To Describe Yourself (For Resumes, Cover Letters, and Interviews)

• How To Write A Resume
• Free Resume Templates
• How To Build A Resume
• Specific Resume Words
• Action Verbs On A resume
• Words To Describe Yourself
• Resume Outline
• How To Make A Resume
• How To Make A Resume On Word
• How To Write A Resume Profile

Using the right words can make a huge difference in a resume, cover letter , or interview. You only get a show time to sell yourself as a candidate, meaning that picking the right descriptors can make a huge difference. Make sure to use strong adjectives, action words, power words, and language specific to your industry when describing yourself.

Word choice in a resume and cover letter are extremely important, as they’re both short documents that need to impress a hiring manager in a hurry. If you’re writing a resume, cover letter, or going to an interview and want to know the right adjectives to use, then keep reading.

Key Takeaways

You can use action verbs, industry-specific skill words, and powerful adjectives to describe yourself in resumes, cover letters, and interviews.

Stay away from buzzwords, slang terms, and hyperbolic descriptors.

Incorporate keywords from the job description into your resume and cover letter in order to get past ATS filters and to a real person.

Power words are words that evoke an emotional reaction. They’re often used in marketing techniques, but can also be useful for resumes, cover letters, and interviews.

The best words to use to describe yourself

Tips for using power words in your resume, tips for incorporate power words into your cover letter, how to answer “how would you describe yourself” at a job interview, example answers to “how would you describe yourself”, resume-killing phrases to avoid, best words to describe yourself faqs, ask the experts.

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It’s important to use evocative words when describing your personality, skills, or accomplishments. You have to make sure you don’t go overboard, but be sure to use active voice and powerful adjectives. You want to sound proactive and results-oriented.

Emphasize using these types of words:

Strong verbs. On your resume, you want to make sure that you start your sentence with a verb, and the stronger the better.

For instance: Arranged and organized weekly team meetings.

Rather than: Responsible for arranging and holding weekly meetings.

The first once sounds much more proactive and punchier, emphasizing the active part of your duties. A well-written cover letter will prioritize stronger verbs as well, as will an interviewer . For instance, replace commonly used verbs with stronger one, such as:

Change cut costs to decreased, streamlined, economized, reduced expenses, or controlled costs

Replace led with: orchestrated, conducted, directed, or spearheaded

Created with designed, crafted, developed, formulated, or conceptualized

Boosted with increased, accelerated, drove, improved, or optimized

Improved with advanced, enhanced, increased, or strengthened

Trained with facilitated, educated, instructed, taught, guided, or coached

Industry skill words

If you want to catch a recruiter ’s attention, consider what industry you’re in. There are certain skills or keywords that show your expertise in a particular industry and are likely to be skills that hiring managers are looking for. It also shows that you’re familiar with the skills and expertise required in the job you’re applying for.

Here are a few examples:

Sales: relationship building, negotiation, persuasive communication, prospecting, closing, territory development

Management: leadership, supervisory skills, coaching, mentoring

Marketing: SEO, conversion optimization, email marketing, content marketing

Accounting: taxation compliance, automatic data processing (ADP), reconciliation, accounts payable, accounts receivable , return on assets

Project management: budget management, proposal writing, compliance, vendor management, risk mitigation

Administration: attention to detail, creating macros, confidentiality, Microsoft Office suite, scheduling

Engineering: quality control , troubleshooting, materials management, research and development, systems integration

Web development: graphic design, user experience, e-commerce, web design, front end/back end, Java, HTML/CSS

Finding these industry-related keywords is easier than you think. Just do a quick Google search for the job openings in that industry. Read the job descriptions and look for any keywords that stand out. Jot down any that describe the qualifications and skills that you have.

Or, even better, identify keywords from a specific job description. Then include these keywords in your resume. When you know what your potential employers are looking for , it’s easy to reverse engineer your resume to show you are a perfect match for their needs.

Powerful Adjectives

When you are writing your resume you want to come across as a rock star, but not sound like a commercial. You need to strike that perfect balance between strong and enticing and blatantly promotional. Choosing the right adjectives for your resume summary statement and the body of your resume will help you find that sweet spot.

Employers are looking to attract and retain top talent. Leadership shows that you have initiative and can drive results for their organization.

You don’t want to use the word leadership over and over. You want to vary it a bit. Here are some words to describe your leadership qualities. Below are a couple of examples. Leadership Adjectives:

Authoritative

Goal-Oriented

Teamwork Adjectives:

Deadline Driven

Detail Oriented

Communication Skills

Collaborative

Cross-functional

Team-player

Using power words, strong verbs, and powerful adjectives are a great way to catch a recruiter’s attention — so long as you don’t overdo it. There are ways that you can incorporate strong language into a resume more effectively, and here are tips to writing up an excellent resume.

Be concise. Short pithy sentences beat longer sentences. Simple direct sentences have more power.

Keep bullet points to one line. Try not to have bullet points wrap around. Shorten them to one line if possible.

Eliminate any widows. A widow is a single word that is wrapped around and is alone on the next line. Don’t do this:

Spearheaded initiative to go green and eliminate delivery truck gas emissions by August 2021

Include ATS friendly words. You may have the best resume in the world, but if your resume is not ATS-friendly , it may never be seen by the potential employer. ATS stands for applicant tracking system and is the robot filter that companies use to handle large amounts of resumes — you need to make it past the filter to be seen.

If you want to get your resume seen, you’ll want to include the right ATS keywords. You write resumes both for people and for the applicant tracking system. Many bigger companies scan and search through resumes pulling top applicants to the top. If your resume doesn’t make it through the ATS system, it may never be seen by a recruiter or hiring manager.

The keywords that the ATS system checks for are determined by the future employer. That’s why it’s important to closely read a job description, look for keywords, and include these keywords in your resume.

Cover letters are where you showcase both your writing skills and other interests and skills that don’t fit well into your resume. That means that it’s your employer’s first introduction to you as more than just a list of skills. Here are some ways to use power words to ensure you have an engaging cover letter.

Focus on the opening line . The first line of the cover letter is where you can hook your reader . Make sure that it’s powerful and gives them an idea of why you’re interested in the job. Don’t be afraid to be enthusiastic, so long as you maintain professionalism.

Don’t just rehash your resume. Your cover letter isn’t just your resume in paragraph form. Make sure to include skills and interests that aren’t in the cover letter. Once again, pay attention to industry skills, and the verbs and adjectives you use.

Showcase your passion. Part of a cover letter’s job is making you interesting. Don’t list any interesting thing about yourself — try to make it relevant to the job. But beyond that, draw in whatever passion or interest you have and make it applicable to the job you’re applying for.

Add a call to action. Don’t forget to add a call to action. This can be as simple as saying you look forward to hearing from them, or it can be that you are excited to discuss your qualifications in an interview. But make sure to use strong verbs and active voice.

Make sure it’s ATS friendly. Not every ATS will scan cover letters, but that does’t mean that you should overlook the importance of keywords. Make sure to put both industry specific keywords as well as ones listed on the job description. If the ATS does scan your cover letter, it’ll show you to be eminently qualified.

It’s always difficult to balance being underprepared for an interview and coming off overly scripted. That means that you need to consider what you know about the position and the company and come up with good off-the-cuff answers, which is a difficult skill to master. But here are some ways to help you answer this question.

Get to the point and stay relevant. It can be easy to go off on a tangent when this question comes up. Get straight to the point and give one or two personality traits that showcase the professional skills you feel the employer values most.

Be honest. Of course, it’s not just about telling the interviewer what you think they want to hear. You’re not doing anyone any favors by lying about your personality or work style . Answer honestly so that both you and the hiring manager can decide whether the job is a good fit for you.

Pick universally likeable traits. Words like “authoritative” or “tolerant” might be positive to some, but others might read negative traits into them. Instead, stick with personal qualities that everyone can agree are positive, like “collaborative,” “curious,” or “diligent.”

Give context. This is the most important part of your answer. It’s not enough to simply rattle off a few adjectives and call it a day. The interviewer will appreciate a story in which the descriptive words come to life.

For example, if you describe yourself as persistent, describe a professional situation in which your persistence paid off with fantastic results.

I would describe myself as a team player who always puts big-picture objectives over personal gain. When I was working on a design project with other graphic designers, we realized late in production that there a number of small, difficult-to-ingrain elements that we failed to implement. While it was a group mistake, I took up the extra work to make sure that the other designers could start work on the client’s next project. That client ended up being impressed with our attention to detail and remains a customer to this day.

Persistence is what sets me apart. When I had a dream for a social media marketing campaign, I worked tirelessly at it. For months, we saw no traction as posts went un-shared and engagement was rock bottom. While I was by no means an expert on this part of digital marketing, I made it a goal to seek out advice and study up on best practices. After six months and countless trials and errors, I was able to earn us over 15,000 subscribers and engagement had gone up by over 1000%. When I know an idea is a winner, I’ll stop at nothing to make it a reality.

My biggest asset is my creativity, and it’s a word my former supervisor used to describe me a lot. We once had a project that involved coding multiple landing pages with similar assets. When I saw that this was going to be a long-term project, I took a few hours to write a Python script that could automate a lot of the grunt work while ensuring consistency. Nobody had approached the problem that way or indicated that this was a possible solution, but my manager was impressed. She credited this creative idea as saving over $10,000 in hours of labor.

As an executive assistant , I find that organization is the trait that defines me in my professional life. When you have a boss who handles dozens of client accounts worth over $1M, you need to make sure that each and every client is receiving the attention they need, when they need it. By creating a master spreadsheet that included all important information, and condensing that master list into highly readable notes for the VP of sales, I was able to streamline client meetings and account management.

You know the feeling you get when your parents try to use phrases to be cool? Like when your mom is hanging out with you and your friends and says something is “sick”. It’s kind of icky, inappropriate, and disgusting. That’s how hiring managers feel when you use buzzwords on a resume.

Are resume buzzwords worth it ? Many of these phrases were cool in their day, but now, these cliches have seriously lost their staying power and it’s time to retire them.

Are you guilty of using any of the following outdated terms? Here are the resume buzzwords and things to avoid putting on a resume .

If you don’t want to make recruiters cringe, explain what you mean in engaging conversational language. Don’t lean on these overused terms.

How do you describe yourself in a resume?

You describe yourself in a resume by using action words, industry-specific skills, and powerful adjectives throughout it. By making the most of the words you use to describe your goals and accomplishments, you can give hiring managers a solid understanding of who you are and what you’re about.

What are three words to describe yourself for a job?

Three words to describe yourself for a job are “motivated,” “reliable,” and “strategic.” There are plenty of other words out there to describe you as well, but these are likely to please almost any employer (just make sure they actually describe you before you use them).

How can I describe myself in one word?

You can describe yourself in one word by choosing a word that can be applied to you in many situations. For example, “tenacious” and “positive” are both words that you can exemplify in a variety of settings.

What are good action words to use on a resume?

Good action words to use on a resume include words like “achieved,” “conducted,” and “assisted.” Use stronger words that evoke more specific meanings, and avoid more bland terms like “managed” or “worked on.”

University of Colorado Boulder – Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume

Harvard Business Review — How to Respond to “So, Tell Me About Yourself” In a Job Interview

Forbes — 34 Words and Phrases That Scream ‘I’m a Leader’ on Resumes

What tips would you give to optimize a resume?

Bill Gutches The Path To Inkc

In an Overview or Value Proposition, use power verbs to start each bullet or statement and be sure to quantify the amount of benefit your client / employer received as a result of your work.

Make sure the Start and Stop dates for each Employer or Contract are contiguous: that there are no gaps in the work timeline.

Create a unique resume with appropriate key phrases for each application so that the words in the resume match as closely as possible to the job description you are applying for.

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Hope Stebbins is an experienced writer and editor within the field of finance and contracts, sales, and business operations. She combines operational analysis with creativity to develop compelling written content. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Eastern University.

Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.

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How to Show Your Personality in a Cover Letter

Write a Unique Cover Letter

Avoid clichés, try a creative first sentence, make a connection, think of unique examples.

• Show You’ll Fit the Company Culture

Tailor Your Tone to Fit the Industry

• Keep It Professional

Don’t Go Negative

More cover letter examples.

Hiring managers read dozens, if not hundreds, of applications for every job they post. If you want to get the job, you have to stand out. It’s important to show the hiring manager not only that you are qualified, but also that you are the best candidate for the position.

One way to get your application noticed is to write a unique, engaging cover letter that shows not only your qualifications but also your personality. Go beyond some of the clichéd, formulaic language found in many letters.

If you make your personality stand out in your letter, the hiring manager will more likely give your application a second look.

Of course, there is also such a thing as putting too much personality in your letter. You want to remain professional, and focus on what makes you an ideal candidate. Find the right balance between showing your personality and being professional in your cover letter, and you will be on your way to a job interview.

The best way to show who you are to the company is to avoid writing one generic cover letter for every job listing . Instead, tailor your letter to the specific job and company.

You can write a targeted cover letter in a number of ways:

• Include keywords from the job listing in your letter.
• You can also reference the company itself–for example, mention a particular success the company has had, or explain why you are interested in working for the company.
• Perhaps most importantly, send your letter to a specific person , if possible.

If you have to, do some digging to find the name of the hiring manager, and address your letter to them.

Avoid the phrase “ To whom it may concern ” unless you can't find a contact. It's important to do your best to show a hiring manager that you have taken the time to write a unique cover letter for the specific job.

One of the best ways to avoid sounding like everyone else in your cover letter is to leave out some of the most overused phrases in cover letters. For example, don’t say you are a “hard worker” or that you “go above and beyond.” Try to find unique ways to explain who you are. One way to do this is to focus on particular examples —show them who you are, rather than tell them.

So many cover letters start with the sentence, “I am applying for X position.” While this is a fine way to start, the hiring manager has likely seen this sentence hundreds of times. Try starting with a more engaging first sentence (or first sentences) that shows who you are.

You might express why you are passionate about the job or the company. For example, you could start, “I have always been a storyteller. As a child, I would write countless stories about princes and princesses. Now, I have turned my passion for storytelling into a career in marketing.” Or, “When I first researched your company for a project in a business class over five years ago, I became inspired by your mission to provide low-cost tech solutions.”

A great “hook” will keep the hiring manager reading and will show him or her a bit about why you are a good fit for the job and company.

If you know anyone at the company, or if someone at the company referred you to the job , mention this early on in your cover letter (ideally in the first couple of sentences).

This humanizes you, and makes you seem more like you are already a part of the company culture . It also shows that someone in the company already thinks you are qualified for the job.

Remember that a cover letter should not simply restate your resume. While your resume lists your qualifications, your cover letter goes deeper, providing examples of times you demonstrated particular skills and abilities necessary for the job.

One way to show your personality is to include some unique, even surprising, examples that demonstrate your skills. For example, if you are applying for a job that requires organizational skills, you might mention how you accurately manage and process dozens of monthly shipments from your Etsy account. These kinds of examples are particularly useful if you do not have much relevant work experience.

Of course, only include examples that are relevant—they need to connect back to a skill or trait necessary for the job.

Show You’ll Fit in With the Company Culture

Hiring managers want to know not only that you are qualified, but also that you will fit in with the company culture. Before writing your letter, research the organization. Check out the company’s website, and talk to anyone you know who works there. Then you can mention ways that you might fit into the culture.

For example, if you know they do a lot of after-work team sports, you might briefly mention at the end of the letter that you would love to put your pitching skills to good use.

Some job listings also give you a peek into the company culture . For example, if the listing itself is very silly or funny, feel free to add a little humor to your letter, if that feels natural.

Similarly, you can tailor your letter to fit the personality of the industry. If you are applying for a corporate job, for example, you might want to write a more traditional cover letter. You can still include some personal examples, and maybe a catchy first sentence, but you should avoid too much humor or zaniness.

If you are applying for a job in an industry that is a bit more informal—say, a tech startup company—you can get a little bit more creative. Your tone can be more lighthearted, and you can include some creative examples.

If you’re applying for a job in a visual, creative field, consider showing your personality through the form of your letter. You might include bullet points , or even a visual (such as an infographic). You can include some of these nontraditional elements in your resume too.

Keep It Professional 

No matter how much of your personality you decide to put into your cover letter, keep the letter professional. It needs to be well written and error-free. It also needs to stay focused on the main topic: why you are a terrific fit for the job.

Some people try to add personality by using phrases like “I know you hate reading cover letters, but…” or “I know I am one of many candidates, but…” Avoid any phrases that sound negative.

Also, avoid phrases that imply you know how the hiring manager feels. You don’t actually know whether he or she hates reading cover letters, and you don’t know how many candidates applied for the job. Focus on the positive, and don’t make assumptions about the hiring manager, the job, or the company.

Sample Cover Letter Showing Personality

Sara Jones 7 Chestnut Street Anytown, Anystate Zip Code 555-555-5555 email@email.com

January 5, 2019

John Wilson Editorial Director XYZ Magazine 5 Main Street, Suite 1 Anytown, Anystate Zip Code

Dear Mr. Wilson,

I’m writing this cover letter to you at 11 pm. Why? Because I just finished speaking with my former coworker, Jane Smith, who tells me that you’re hiring for the position of editorial assistant, and I wanted to apply immediately.

Jane will tell you that I’ve been eager to apply for a role at XYZ Magazine since we worked together, first at our student magazine, where I was managing editor and she was editor in chief, and then at ABCmag.com as assistants. I’ve always valued XYZ’s showcase for diverse and emerging voices, as well as its commitment to fact-checking and copyediting.

In fact, my desire to work for your magazine informed my studies at Large Public University. I took several copyediting and multimedia graphic design courses in my last year and have continued taking classes after graduation.

In addition to my background in multimedia design and copyediting – and my passion for XYZ – I have:

• Three years of experience brainstorming, pitching, and assigning stories
• Excellent research and reporting skills
• Extensive experience analyzing traffic trends with Google Analytics
• Expert-level social media management skills
• An intense love affair with the Oxford Comma (which I know you share)

I’ve also had a few bylines on XYZ over the years:

I’d love to speak with you about the role. Please feel free to contact me at 555-555-5555 or email@email.com to discuss it or to arrange an interview.

Thanks, and best regards,

Sara Jones [signature for hard copy]

Review cover letter examples for many different types of jobs and get templates you can use to write your own letters.

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

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

After weeks of heavy job searching, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume.

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

So now, you’re stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where to start...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

• How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter, Step by Step
• 15+ Job-Winning Cover Letter Examples

Let’s get started.

A cover letter is a document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume or CV.

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter is supposed to impress the hiring manager and convince them you’re worth interviewing as a candidate.

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

First of all, it should complement your resume, not copy it. Your cover letter is your chance to elaborate on important achievements, skills, or anything else that your resume doesn’t give you the space to cover. 

For example, if you have an employment gap on your resume, the cover letter is a great place to explain why it happened and how it helped you grow as a person. 

If this is your first time writing a cover letter, writing about yourself might seem complicated. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be super creative or even a good writer .

All you have to do is follow this tried and tested cover letter structure:

• Header. Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
• Formal greeting. Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
• Introduction. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
• Body. Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
• Conclusion. Summarize your key points and wrap it up professionally.

Now, let’s take a look at an example of a cover letter that follows our structure perfectly:

New to cover letter writing? Give our cover letter video a watch before diving into the article!

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

You should always include a cover letter in your job application, even if the hiring manager never reads it. Submitting a cover letter is as important as submitting a resume if you want to look like a serious candidate.

If the employer requests a cover letter as part of the screening process, not sending one is a huge red flag and will probably get your application tossed into the “no” pile immediately.

On the other hand, if the job advertisement doesn’t require a cover letter from the candidates, adding one shows you went the extra mile.

Putting in the effort to write a cover letter can set you apart from other candidates with similar professional experience and skills, and it could even sway the hiring manager to call you for an interview if you do it right.

Need to write a letter to help get you into a good school or volunteer program? Check out our guide to learn how to write a motivation letter !

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn how to write one!

We’ll go through the process in detail, step by step.

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, stylish template?

Just choose one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in no time!

As a bonus, our intuitive AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter as you write it. You’ll have the perfect cover letter done in minutes!

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

Here, you want to include all the essential contact information , including:

• Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top.
• Job Title. Match the professional title underneath your name to the exact job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Email Address. Always use a professional and easy-to-spell email address. Ideally, it should combine your first and last names.
• Phone Number. Add a number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country, no need for more details.
• Relevant Links (optional). You can add links to websites or social media profiles that are relevant to your field. Examples include a LinkedIn profile , Github, or an online portfolio.

Then it’s time to add the recipient’s contact details, such as:

• Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, add it.
• Hiring Manager's Title. While there’s no harm in writing “hiring manager,” if they’re the head of the department, we recommend you use that title accordingly.
• Company Name. Make sure to write the name of the company you're applying to.
• Location. The city and state/country are usually enough information here, too.
• Date of Writing (Optional). You can include the date you wrote your cover letter for an extra professional touch.

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed all the contact information, it’s time to start writing the content of the cover letter.

The first thing you need to do here is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager.

In fact, you want to address the hiring manager personally .

Forget the old “Dear Sir or Madam” or the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.” You want to give your future boss a good impression and show them that you did your research before sending in your application.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes something sticks with their generic approach

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager?

First, check the job ad. The hiring manager’s name might be listed somewhere in it.

If that doesn’t work, check the company’s LinkedIn page. You just need to look up the head of the relevant department you’re applying to, and you’re all set.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novorésumé. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer.

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

But let’s say you’re applying for a position as a server . In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager” or “food and beverage manager.”

If the results don’t come up with anything, try checking out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Make sure to address them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, you can just stick to their full name, like so:

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

But what if you still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, no matter where you look?

No worries. You can direct your cover letter to the company, department, or team as a whole, or just skip the hiring manager’s name.

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear [Company Name]

Are you applying for a research position? Learn how to write an academic personal statement .

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Hiring managers get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The biggest problem with most opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Here’s an example:

• My name is Jonathan, and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a Sales Manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

And do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start with some of your top achievements to grab the reader’s attention. And to get the point across, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

Your opening paragraph should also show the hiring manager a bit about why you want this specific job. For example, mention how the job relates to your plans for the future or how it can help you grow professionally. This will show the hiring manager that you’re not just applying left and right—you’re actually enthusiastic about getting this particular role.

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

My name’s Michael, and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked as a Sales Representative with Company X, another fin-tech company , for 3+ years, where I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month and beat the KPIs by around 40%. I believe that my previous industry experience, passion for finance , and excellence in sales make me the right candidate for the job.

The second candidate starts with what they can do for the company in the future and immediately lists an impressive and relevant achievement. Since they’re experienced in the same industry and interested in finance, the hiring manager can see they’re not just a random applicant.

From this introduction, it’s safe to say that the hiring manager would read the rest of this candidate’s cover letter.

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

The next part of your cover letter is where you can go into detail about what sets you apart as a qualified candidate for the job.

The main thing you need to remember here is that you shouldn’t make it all about yourself . Your cover letter is supposed to show the hiring manager how you relate to the job and the company you’re applying to.

No matter how cool you make yourself sound in your cover letter, if you don’t tailor it to match what the hiring manager is looking for, you’re not getting an interview.

To get this right, use the job ad as a reference when writing your cover letter. Make sure to highlight skills and achievements that match the job requirements, and you’re good to go.

Since this part of your cover letter is by far the longest, you should split it into at least two paragraphs.

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Before you can show the hiring manager that you’re exactly what they’ve been looking for, you need to know what it is they’re looking for.

Start by doing a bit of research. Learn what the most important skills and responsibilities of the role are according to the job ad, and focus on any relevant experience you have that matches them.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. The top requirements on the job ad are:

• Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
• Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
• Excellent copywriting skills

So, in the body of your cover letter, you need to show how you meet these requirements. Here’s an example of what that can look like:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

• Google Search

Our example addresses all the necessary requirements and shows off the candidate’s relevant skills.

Are you a student applying for your first internship? Learn how to write an internship cover letter with our dedicated guide.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

As skilled and experienced as you may be, that’s not all the hiring manager is looking for.

They also want someone who’s a good fit for their company and who actually wants to work there.

Employees who don’t fit in with the company culture are likely to quit sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary , so hiring managers vet candidates very carefully to avoid this scenario.

So, you have to convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about working with them.

Start by doing some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company’s product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the company’s culture like?

Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or on job-search websites like Jobscan or Glassdoor.

Then, pick your favorite thing about the company and talk about it in your cover letter.

But don’t just describe the company in its own words just to flatter them. Be super specific—the hiring manager can see through any fluff.

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features, such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2, were real game changers for the device.

I really admire how Company XYZ strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

So, make sure to do your fair share of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying to that specific company.

Is the company you want to work for not hiring at the moment? Check out our guide to writing a letter of interest .

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Finally, it’s time to conclude your cover letter.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't make in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? If there’s any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision, mention it here. If not, just recap your key selling points so far, such as key skills and expertise.
• Express gratitude. Politely thanking the hiring manager for their time is always a good idea.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. This means you should ask the hiring manager to do something, like call you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.
• Remember to sign your cover letter. Just add a formal closing line and sign your name at the bottom.

Here’s an example of how to end your cover letter :

I hope to help Company X make the most of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your Facebook marketing goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

Feel free to use one of these other popular closing lines for your cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Once you’re done with your cover letter, it’s time to check if it meets all industry requirements. 

Give our handy cover letter writing checklist a look to make sure:

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

• The hiring manager in the company
• Your future direct supervisor
• The company/department in general

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention some of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
• Did you convey enthusiasm for the specific role?

Do you show that you’re the right candidate for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
• Did you show how your experiences helped you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

• Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
• Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you conclude your cover letter properly?

• Did you recap your key selling points in the conclusion?
• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
• Did you use the right formal closing line and sign your name?

15 Cover Letter Tips

Now you’re all set to write your cover letter! 

Before you start typing, here are some cover letter tips to help take your cover letter to the next level:

• Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job. Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the job you're applying for. This shows you're not just sending generic applications left and right, and it tells the hiring manager you’re the right person for the job.
• Showcase Your Skills. Talk about how your skills meet the company’s needs. And while your hard skills should be front and center, you shouldn’t underestimate your soft skills in your cover letter either.
• Avoid Fluff. Don’t make any generic statements you can’t back up. The hiring manager can tell when you’re just throwing words around, and it doesn’t make your cover letter look good.
• Use Specific Examples. Instead of saying you're great at something, give an actual example to back up your claim. Any data you can provide makes you sound more credible, so quantify your achievements. For example, give numbers such as percentages related to your performance and the timeframe it took to accomplish certain achievements.
• Research the Company. Always take time to learn about the company you're applying to. Make sure to mention something about them in your cover letter to show the hiring manager that you're interested.
• Follow the Application Instructions. If the job posting asks for something specific in your cover letter or requires a certain format, make sure you include it. Not following instructions can come off as unattentive or signal to the hiring manager that you’re not taking the job seriously.
• Use the Right Template and Format. Choose the right cover letter format and adapt your cover letter’s look to the industry you’re applying for. For example, if you’re aiming for a job in Law or Finance, you should go for a cleaner, more professional look. But if you’re applying for a field that values innovation, like IT or Design, you have more room for creativity.
• Express Your Enthusiasm. Let the hiring manager know why you're excited about the job. Your passion for the specific role or the field in general can be a big selling point, and show them that you’re genuinely interested, not just applying left and right.
• Address Any Gaps. If there are any employment gaps in your resume , your cover letter is a great place to mention why. Your resume doesn’t give you enough space to elaborate on an employment gap, so addressing it here can set hiring managers at ease—life happens, and employers understand.
• Avoid Quirky Emails. Your email address should be presentable. It’s hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Just use a [email protected] format.
• Check Your Contact Information. Typos in your email address or phone number can mean a missed opportunity. Double-check these before sending your application.
• Mention if You Want to Relocate. If you’re looking for a job that lets you move somewhere else, specify this in your cover letter.
• Keep It Brief. You want to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel, so if you go over one page, they simply won’t read it at all.
• Use a Professional Tone. Even though a conversational tone isn’t a bad thing, remember that it's still a formal document. Show professionalism in your cover letter by keeping slang, jargon, and emojis out of it.
• Proofread Carefully. Typos and grammar mistakes are a huge deal-breaker. Use a tool like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar, or even get a friend to check it for you.

15+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Check out some perfect cover letter examples for different experience levels and various professions.

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing a college student cover letter here.

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a project manager cover letter here.

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a team leader cover letter here.

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to a career change resume and cover letter here.

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a management cover letter here.

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an executive resume here.

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing an IT cover letter here.

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a consultant cover letter here.

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a human resources cover letter here.

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business cover letter here.

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales cover letter here.

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a social worker cover letter here.

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a lawyer cover letter here.

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an administrative assistant cover letter here.

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineer cover letter here.

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist cover letter here.

Need more inspiration? Check out these cover letter examples to learn what makes them stand out.

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Not sure how to start your cover letter? Don’t worry!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the blanks for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application falls through.

After all, your cover letter is meant to complement your resume. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression in your cover letter, only for the hiring manager to never read it because your resume was mediocre.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here, too.

Check out our dedicated guide on how to make a resume and learn everything you need to know to land your dream job!

Just pick one of our resume templates and start writing your own job-winning resume.

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
• To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
• Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
• Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve every step of the way! 

Follow our career blog for more valuable advice, or check out some of our top guides, such as:

• How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers [Full List]

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125+ Words to Describe Yourself in a Job Interview, Resume, and More

Ever been asked to share a fun fact and your mind went blank? Or tried to fill out a dating profile and found it harder than the SATs? Describing yourself can be nerve-racking. You might worry that it sounds braggy, weird, or straight-up boring.

Behold, more than 125 words to describe yourself perfectly, whether you’re giving a quick intro, preparing to answer  interview questions like “How would you describe yourself in three words?” or whipping up a  resume or  cover letter . Plus, we’ll share exactly how to choose the right words for you.

Best words to describe yourself

These words can be used in a variety of circumstances:

• Charismatic
• Collaborative
• Competitive
• Conscientious
• Considerate
• Cooperative
• Data-driven
• Emotionally intelligent
• Enthusiastic
• Experimental
• Extroverted
• Hardworking
• Imaginative
• Independent
• Inquisitive
• Introspective
• Introverted
• Light-hearted
• Open-minded
• Self-reliant
• Spontaneous
• Trustworthy
• Unconventional

Best words to describe yourself in an interview

In a job interview, you may be asked to “Describe yourself in three words,” and you want your answer to stand out. Be ready to:

• Choose words that are relevant to the position. (Hint: Check the job description !)
• Back up why you chose each word with a succinct example or explanation.
• Use this answer as an opportunity to bring up a professional quality or two (or three) that you haven’t gotten to discuss yet.

For example, you could say:

“I’d have to say that I’m resourceful—when I worked in marketing at an early stage startup, I often came up with ways to get our name out there with a very limited budget and a marketing staff of two. I’m also empathetic—my team members often feel comfortable opening up to me and I’m good at adjusting business plans to account for my employees’ personal well-being while still hitting goals. And third, I’m adaptable—that early stage startup changed up its product strategy three times in the first year I was there and I was able to quickly switch gears while seeing what existing work could be repurposed.”

In an interview, it’s also good to have some adjectives in your back pocket to sprinkle into your answers to other questions, like “ Tell me about yourself ” or “ What is your work style? ” But make sure you can always back up what you’re saying, either in your answer or if your interviewer asks you to elaborate.

Here are some words you might use to describe yourself in an interview (but the ones in the list above are still fair game, too!):

• Approachable
• Forward-thinking
• Motivational
• Resourceful
• Straightforward
• Self-starting

Best words to describe yourself in a resume or cover letter

When you’re writing a resume or cover letter, you’re working with a limited amount of space—so you need to find the strongest, most precise, and most relevant words you can to describe yourself. Go back to the job description to look for the skills, qualities, experiences, and values that seem most important to the job and the company and describe yourself in a way that aligns—while still being truthful, of course. For example, are they looking for people who can quickly transition between different tasks? Then maybe you want to describe yourself as adaptable in your application materials.

Your resume should focus on your accomplishments, tailored to the specific job you want , rather than descriptions of yourself. So these words should generally be restricted to your resume summary . On a cover letter , you’re less constrained in what you write about and you can describe yourself throughout. But like in an interview, you’re going to want to back up any word you use to describe yourself with concrete examples and achievements.

The words you use to describe yourself in a resume or cover letter should take job description keywords into account, but here are some to get you started:

• Accomplished
• Detail-oriented
• Experienced
• Knowledgeable
• Self-taught
• Media-savvy

Bonus tips for describing yourself in professional settings

• Adjust your choices based on the situation: There are dozens of words that could describe anyone, so pick the best ones for each scenario. If you’re looking for a job, different employers and positions call for different qualities. For example, if you’re applying for some jobs where you’d be managing direct reports, you might want to focus more on words that describe what you’re like as a leader and boss. Use the job description to see what qualifications matter most for any given posting.
• Choose specific words: Words have their own meanings. Even synonyms rarely mean the exact same thing or evoke the same tone, images, or emotions. So find the word that best suits you and steer clear of the bland descriptors. Sure, you’re “nice” but what form does “nice” take? Are you “dependable,” “generous,” or “empathetic”?
• Don’t sound like a thesaurus: At the same time, you don’t want to choose words just because they’re uncommon or formal. Make sure you’re choosing the best word, not the fanciest. You’re not “gregarious”—you’re “sociable” or “outgoing.” You’re not “exuberant”—you’re “enthusiastic.” You’re not “contrarian”—you’re “annoying” (so you really shouldn’t be using either word as a selling point).
• Select descriptors you can back up: Whether or not you’re going to need to tell a story that exemplifies words you’ve chosen to describe yourself, you should have evidence that shows you’re being truthful rather than just saying what you think the other person wants to hear. In a similar vein, stay away from words that are extremely subjective or too hyperbolic to be realistic like “awesome,” “inspirational,” “tireless,” or “groundbreaking.”

• Career Blog

Describing Yourself: 5 Perfect Examples for 2024

As humans, it is essential for us to accurately describe ourselves in different scenarios. Whether it is for a job application or a social media profile, a clear and precise self-description can make a significant impact. In this article, we will explore the key elements one should consider when describing themselves and the different types of descriptions that can be provided.

Being able to describe oneself effectively allows individuals to showcase their strengths and unique qualities. It can help in creating an impressive first impression and can provide insight into one’s personality traits and values.

When crafting a self-description, one should consider elements such as their skills, experiences, personal qualities, and achievements. It is essential to strike a balance between highlighting the strengths and being humble. Employers and potential connections are interested in knowing what sets an individual apart and what they can offer.

There are different types of self-descriptions that one can provide depending on the context. A professional self-description, a personal self-description, or a creative self-description, among others. Each type requires specific elements and should be tailored to suit the intended audience.

In the next sections, we will explore the different types of self-descriptions and provide examples of perfect self-descriptions that can inspire you in crafting your own.

Personality Descriptions

When it comes to describing yourself, one crucial aspect is your personality type. So in this section, we’ll cover some helpful tips on how to create an accurate and compelling personality description.

Overview of Personality Types

There are numerous personality typing models out there, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Big Five personality traits, and the Enneagram. Each model differs in the specific traits and categories they include, but they all aim to identify patterns in individuals’ behaviors, thoughts, and emotions.

Understanding your personality type can help you better understand yourself and how you interact with others. While no personality type is inherently better or worse than others, knowing your type’s strengths and weaknesses can help you optimize your personal and professional relationships.

Identifying Your Personality Traits

To craft an authentic personality description, you need to have a clear understanding of your personality traits. Start by reflecting on what comes naturally to you and what challenges you. Consider how you process information or make decisions, whether you prefer working alone or in groups, and how you respond to stress.

You can also take personality assessments based on different typing models to gain more insights into your strengths, weaknesses, and preferences. While these tests aren’t foolproof, they can offer useful starting points for self-reflection and self-improvement.

Crafting a Personality Description

Once you have a good grasp of your personality traits, it’s time to craft a personality description that accurately represents you. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

• Be honest and transparent about who you are
• Avoid stereotyping or generalizing people with similar traits
• Use vivid language and specific examples to illustrate your traits
• Consider how your personality traits align with your personal and professional goals and values
• Seek feedback from trusted friends or colleagues to ensure your description resonates with others

A well-crafted personality description can not only help you showcase your unique strengths and qualities but also connect with like-minded individuals.

Examples of Personality Descriptions

To give you a sense of what a personality description might look like, here are five hypothetical examples based on different personality types:

The Visionary – Creative, driven, and future-oriented, the Visionary enjoys imagining bold new possibilities and pushing boundaries. They thrive when given the freedom to experiment and innovate, whether on their own or as part of a team.

The Guardian – Dependable, responsible, and detail-oriented, the Guardian excels at executing plans and keeping things running smoothly. They take pride in their work and value stability and consistency.

The Explorer – Curious, adaptable, and spontaneous, the Explorer loves experiencing new things and taking risks. They enjoy exploring different cultures, ideas, and environments and often find themselves at their best when learning or adapting to new challenges.

The Advocate – Empathetic, sensitive, and idealistic, the Advocate is deeply committed to making a positive impact on the world.

Professional Descriptions

As you showcase who you are, it is important to include a professional description that portrays your abilities in the most effective way possible. A professional description is a brief yet comprehensive summary that highlights your skills, education, work experience, and accomplishments relevant to your chosen field.

Overview of professional descriptions

A professional description is a powerful tool that can help you encapsulate your unique expertise and convey your value as an asset to potential employers or clients. This section of the article will guide you through the process of identifying and crafting a professional description that accurately represents who you are and what you offer.

Identifying your professional abilities

Before you begin drafting your professional description, it is essential to evaluate your skills, knowledge, and experience. This step will help you put your best foot forward and highlight your unique abilities that set you apart from others. Some questions to consider when identifying your professional abilities include:

• What skills do I have that are relevant to my industry or field?
• What knowledge and education qualifications do I possess that showcase my expertise?
• What experience have I gained in my career thus far that supports my skills and knowledge?

Answering these questions will enable you to focus on the most important aspects of your professional abilities when crafting your professional description.

Crafting a professional description

The key to creating an effective professional description is to keep it concise, direct, and specific. Your professional description should quickly communicate your strengths and provide a compelling reason for others to consider working with you. To craft a winning professional description, consider the following tips:

• Start with a strong opening statement that highlights your unique selling point.
• Use relevant keywords that demonstrate your expertise and is tailored for the industry you are working in.
• Provide specific accomplishments, credentials or experience relevant to the desired position or role
• Conclude with a clear call to action, indicating what the reader must do next to collaborate with you.

Examples of professional descriptions

Here are five examples of professional descriptions, each showcasing different industries, expertise and tone of language:

• Highly organized and results-driven project manager with 10+ years of experience guiding large-scale construction projects to successful completion on time and within budget.
• Creative and versatile graphic designer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling through visual media. 5+ years of experience in brand identity, web design, and print collateral development, collaborating with clients across various industries.
• Seasoned lawyer with over 15 years of experience developing and deploying scalable commercial, litigation, and regulatory legal strategies to achieve optimal outcomes for corporate clients in the telecommunications industry.
• Resourceful and proactive social media specialist with 3+ years of experience in developing effective digital marketing campaigns, cultivating brand awareness, and growing social media followers for clients within the beauty and fashion industry.
• Passionate educator dedicated to fostering student learning through innovative instructional methods and curriculum development.

Physical Descriptions

When it comes to describing yourself, your physical attributes can play a significant role in how people perceive you. In this section, we will cover the following topics:

Overview of physical descriptions

Physical descriptions include attributes such as height, weight, hair color, eye color, and body type. These attributes can either be stated plainly or through vivid and descriptive language that paints a picture for the reader.

Identifying your physical attributes

Before you can craft a physical description, it’s important to identify your physical attributes. Take a moment to reflect on how you look and how you would describe yourself to someone else.

Crafting a physical description

When crafting a physical description, it’s important to consider your audience and what kind of impression you want to make. Are you describing yourself for a job interview or a dating profile? Once you’ve identified your audience, choose words that accurately and positively portray your physical attributes.

Here are some tips for crafting a physical description:

• Be honest but positive. Highlight your best features without exaggerating or lying.
• Use sensory language. Incorporate descriptive language that engages the reader’s senses and paints a visual picture.
• Consider context. Depending on the situation or audience, you may need to emphasize different physical attributes.

Examples of physical descriptions

• I am 5’7″ with hazel eyes and curly brown hair. My athletic build is the result of regular exercise and a healthy diet.
• At 6’2″, I am taller than average, with piercing blue eyes and short, buzzed hair. I have a lean and muscular build from a lifetime of playing sports.
• My dark brown hair cascades to my waist and frames my heart-shaped face. I have bright green eyes that sparkle when I smile, and a curvy figure that I embrace and love about myself.
• I am a petite 5’1″ with striking copper-red hair and big brown eyes. While my small stature may be deceiving, my athletic build and love for fitness keep me strong and healthy.
• My wavy blonde hair falls just above my shoulders, complementing my bright blue eyes. While I am naturally slim, I am toned and fit from a passion for outdoor activities like hiking and surfing.

Crafting a physical description is an opportunity to highlight your best features and make a positive impression on others. By being honest, descriptive, and context-aware, you can create a physical description that accurately and positively represents you.

Emotional Descriptions

In this section, we will discuss how to effectively use emotional descriptions to portray your personality or character. Emotional descriptions are an effective way to connect with your audience on a deeper level and show them a more human side of yourself.

Overview of Emotional Descriptions

An emotional description is an expression of feelings that depict your state of mind. It can be achieved by using descriptive words that help capture the exact emotions you are experiencing. Emotional descriptions help to create a more vivid picture of who you are, thereby making it easier for people to understand you.

Identifying Your Emotional State

Identifying your emotional state is a crucial step in creating emotional descriptions. You need to be self-aware and in touch with your feelings before you can effectively communicate them to others. Take some time to reflect on your emotions and how you are feeling currently. This will help guide you in crafting a more accurate and genuine emotional description.

Crafting an Emotional Description

When crafting an emotional description, it’s important to use language that vividly describes the emotions you are experiencing. Be specific and avoid generalizing feelings. Use relatable and familiar analogies to paint a clear picture of your emotional state.

Examples of Emotional Descriptions

Here are some examples of emotional descriptions that can be used to describe yourself:

• My heart races with excitement every time I discover something new
• My mind is a chaotic garden of ideas, sprouting out in every direction
• I feel lost and confused, like a ship lost at sea
• I am overwhelmed with a sense of calmness and tranquility, like a still lake at dawn
• My emotions are like a pendulum, swinging from one end to another.

Emotional descriptions offer an opportunity to create a more accurate portrayal of yourself to others. Be authentic, use descriptive words, and try to connect with your audience on a deeper level. By following these guidelines, you can create emotional descriptions that truly capture your personality and character.

Social Descriptions

In today’s digital age, creating a strong social presence has become increasingly important for personal and professional branding. Social descriptions can help highlight your unique attributes and showcase your personality to the world.

Overview of social descriptions

Social descriptions are brief summaries of your social attributes and traits that you want to highlight on social media platforms. These attributes can include your profession, interests, skills, and hobbies.

Identifying your social attributes

Before crafting your social description, take time to reflect on your personal and professional qualities that make you unique. Consider your strengths and what sets you apart from others. Ask yourself, “What would I want people to know about me?”

Crafting a social description

When crafting your social description, keep it concise and to the point. Aim to capture your essence in a few short sentences. Be sure to include your profession or industry, interests, and personality traits. Use keywords relevant to your field to make your description more searchable.

Examples of social descriptions

Expert marketer, avid traveler, and foodie.  Passionate about creating innovative marketing strategies that capture consumer attention. Loves exploring new cities and trying new cuisines.

Creative writer, film buff, and cat mom.  Experienced in content creation and copywriting. Has a passion for storytelling and a love for all things cinema. Enjoys spending time with her furry feline.

Fashion enthusiast, fitness junkie, and animal rights advocate.  Experienced in the fashion industry and committed to sustainable fashion practices. A dedicated fitness enthusiast and animal lover.

Tech enthusiast, social media guru, and music lover.  Obsessed with the latest digital trends and platforms. Has a passion for music and loves attending live concerts.

Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and avid reader.  Founder of a successful startup and passionate about giving back to the community. Enjoys reading books on business and personal growth.

Social descriptions are a great way to showcase your unique attributes and personality to the world. By identifying your strengths and crafting a concise description, you can create a strong social presence and stand out from the crowd.

Value Descriptions

Value descriptions are an essential part of describing yourself and your personal brand. A value description conveys what you believe in and what drives your actions and decisions. It’s crucial to create value descriptions that effectively communicate your beliefs, as they reflect your character and can help you build stronger relationships in both personal and professional settings.

Overview of Value Descriptions

Before crafting a value description, it’s important to understand what it represents. A value description is a concise statement that encapsulates your most important principles and beliefs. It should be phrased in a way that is easy to understand and memorable, making it an effective tool for communicating your values to others.

Identifying Your Values

To create a compelling value description, you must first identify the values that drive your behavior. Start by thinking about your life experiences and what you care most about. Consider what motivates you and what you would fight for. Your values may relate to family, work, personal growth, or societal issues.

Crafting a Value Description

Crafting a value description requires an understanding of what you believe in and how to communicate it effectively. The key is to create a statement that is brief, memorable, and captures the essence of what you stand for. You should aim to use positive, action-oriented language that inspires others to adopt similar beliefs.

Examples of Value Descriptions

Here are five examples of inspiring value descriptions:

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” This phrase, popularized by Mahatma Gandhi, encompasses the value of personal responsibility for making a positive impact on the world.

“Always do what’s right, not what’s easy.” This value encourages consistently making ethical and moral decisions, even if it requires more effort or sacrifice.

“Live every day as if it were your last.” This value emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and making the most out of life.

“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” This value encourages treating others with compassion and empathy, even in difficult situations.

“Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.” This value emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and resilience in achieving personal and professional goals.

Crafting an effective value description requires introspection and an understanding of what you stand for. By creating a compelling value description, you can communicate your beliefs and inspire others to adopt similar values.

Skills Descriptions

When it comes to describing yourself, it’s important to focus on your skills. Employers look for candidates who possess the necessary skills to perform the job at hand. But identifying your skills might not be as easy as it sounds. That’s where skills descriptions come in.

Overview of Skills Descriptions

Skills descriptions are brief summaries of your abilities and competencies. They provide employers with a quick snapshot of what you bring to the table. Crafting an effective skills description requires a bit of self-awareness and creativity.

Identifying Your Skills

To create a skills description, you need to first identify your skills. Start by listing everything you’re good at, whether it’s a technical skill like programming or a soft skill like interpersonal communication. Don’t be afraid to ask friends, colleagues, and family members for input. They may have a different perspective on your strengths that you might have overlooked.

Crafting a Skills Description

Once you’ve identified your skills, it’s time to craft a description. Start by choosing the most important skills you possess that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. State the skill and then provide an example of how you’ve demonstrated that skill in the past. Make sure to highlight the value that these skills bring to the employer.

For example, if you’re applying for a sales position, you might write:

• Persuasive communicator: Demonstrated ability to create and deliver presentations that convert prospects into customers.

Examples of Skills Descriptions

Here are some examples of skills descriptions:

Project management: Successfully led cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and within budget.

Attention to detail: Consistently produced error-free work by meticulously reviewing and proofreading documents.

Problem-solving: Proven ability to identify and solve complex problems using a data-driven approach.

Team player: Collaborated effectively with colleagues to achieve shared goals and create a positive work environment.

Adaptability: Demonstrated flexibility and resilience while working in fast-paced and rapidly changing environments.

By crafting effective skills descriptions, you’ll be able to effectively communicate your strengths to potential employers and differentiate yourself from other candidates.

Achievements Descriptions

When it comes to describing yourself, nothing speaks louder than your achievements. In this section, we’ll take a look at the importance of achievements descriptions, how to identify them, and best practices for crafting them.

Overview of Achievements Descriptions

Achievement descriptions are concise, yet powerful summaries of your professional accomplishments. They serve as evidence of your capabilities and showcase your value proposition to potential employers or clients. Achievements descriptions can be used in resumes, cover letters, and online profiles.

Identifying Your Achievements

Before you can craft an achievements description, it’s important to take stock of your accomplishments. Start by asking yourself the following questions:

• What goals have I accomplished?
• How have I made a tangible impact in my professional field?
• What specific tasks or responsibilities have I excelled at?
• Have I received any awards or recognition for my work?

Once you’ve identified your achievements, you can begin to distill them into clear and compelling descriptions.

Crafting an Achievements Description

When crafting an achievements description, it’s important to keep in mind the following best practices:

• Be concise: Summarize your achievement in 1-2 sentences.
• Be specific: Use data points or metrics to emphasize the impact of your accomplishment.
• Be relevant: Focus on achievements that align with the job or client you are targeting.
• Be action-oriented: Use strong action verbs to convey your accomplishment.

For example, instead of saying “Increased sales revenue,” you could say “Boosted sales by 30% through targeted marketing campaigns.”

Examples of Achievements Descriptions

Here are five examples of achievements descriptions that follow the best practices outlined above:

• “Led a cross-functional team that reduced production costs by 25% through process optimization and automation.”
• “Revamped the company’s social media strategy resulting in a 50% increase in engagement and a 20% increase in website traffic.”
• “Developed and implemented a new employee training program that resulted in a 25% increase in staff retention.”
• “Created a project management system that saved the company over $100,000 in project delays and increased customer satisfaction by 20%.”
• “Consistently achieved a customer satisfaction rating of 95% or higher through proactive communication and issue resolution.”

By following these best practices and providing clear and compelling achievements descriptions, you can effectively showcase your value and land your dream job or client.

Short Blurb Descriptions

Short blurb descriptions are brief summaries or teasers used to grab the reader’s attention and provide a concise understanding of the content. They can be used for various purposes, such as advertising, marketing, or promoting products, services, or ideas.

The primary purpose of a short blurb is to capture the reader’s interest and entice them to read more. It aims to pique their curiosity, give them a sneak peek, and persuade them to take action, such as clicking a link, watching a video, or buying a product. Therefore, a short blurb must be compelling, engaging, clear, and focused.

Crafting a short blurb requires a combination of creativity, clarity, and conciseness. It should provide enough information to convey the key message or benefit while leaving out unnecessary details. A good short blurb should also be tailored to the target audience and reflect the tone, style, and language of the content or brand.

To give you some examples, here are five short blurb descriptions that showcase different approaches to describing yourself:

• The Bold Innovator:  I transform challenges into opportunities and spark breakthroughs with my visionary thinking and fearless approach. Join me on the frontier of change.
• The Versatile Maverick:  I’m a master of surprises and a jack of all trades, navigating life with creativity, humor, and resourcefulness. Ready for an adventure?
• The Caring Empath:  I listen deeply, feel passionately, and connect authentically with others, building meaningful relationships that enrich and inspire. Let’s make a difference together.
• The Expert Guide:  I have the knowledge, experience, and wisdom to help you reach your goals, solve your problems, and achieve your dreams. Ready to unlock your potential?
• The Authentic Voice:  I speak my truth, share my story, and inspire others to embrace their uniqueness, empower their voice, and live their purpose. Are you ready to be heard?

Long-form Descriptions

As a copywriter, mastering the art of long-form descriptions is an essential skill to communicate effectively with readers. A long-form description is a piece of content that conveys a thorough explanation of a product, service, or an idea. It typically comprises of 500 or more words and aims to educate and persuade the reader to take action.

The primary purpose of a long-form description is to provide extensive information about the product or service being described. It helps the reader to make an informed decision and builds trust with the audience. Furthermore, it creates a strong emotional connection with the reader and evokes a sense of urgency.

Crafting a compelling long-form description begins with identifying the target audience and their needs. It is crucial to understand the buyer persona, their pain points, and how the product or service can solve those problems. Researching the competition and industry trends also plays a vital role in crafting an effective long-form description.

When writing a long-form description, it is essential to keep the content engaging, user-friendly, and structured. The introduction should hook the audience and give them a reason to continue reading. The body should provide a clear solution to the problem and highlight the benefits of the product or service. Adding testimonials, statistics, and case studies can also improve the credibility of the content.

Here are some examples of long-form descriptions that describe a person or an idea:

A day in the life of a successful entrepreneur: This long-form description takes the reader on a journey through the life of a successful entrepreneur, highlighting the challenges, lessons, and daily routines involved in building a thriving business.

The art of public speaking: This long-form description provides an in-depth guide to public speaking, including the benefits, techniques, and tips for becoming a skilled speaker.

My journey to self-discovery: This long-form description describes an individual’s experience in exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and innermost desires, leading to personal growth and fulfillment.

The power of positive thinking: This long-form description explains the benefits of positive thinking and how it can transform one’s mindset, leading to success and happiness.

Overcoming adversity: This long-form description shares the story of an individual who overcame significant obstacles and how their experiences taught valuable life lessons.

Long-form descriptions are a powerful tool for copywriters to communicate effectively with their audience. By understanding the purpose, crafting engaging content, and providing examples, writers can create compelling long-form descriptions that inspire and motivate their readers.

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How To Write A Cover Letter in 2024 (Expert Tips and Examples)

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to write a cover letter that will get you noticed by recruiters.

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A survey revealed that 77% of recruiters prefer candidates who send in a cover letter, even if submitting it is optional. Additionally, 90% of executives consider cover letters invaluable when assessing job candidates.

So, if you think cover letters are no longer important and necessary in 2024, think again.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you write a cover letter that effectively sells your skills and professional experience, increases your chances of getting interviews, and gets your foot in the door.

Table of Contents

What is a cover letter and do you still need one in 2024?

A cover letter is a letter of introduction accompanying your resume that paints why you are the best person for the job, what you bring to the table, and how you can help move the company forward.

Is the cover letter dead? No! In fact, a recent study by ResumeLab revealed that 64% of job vacancies still require that you include a cover letter in your application and 83% of HR pros said that cover letters are important for their hiring decision.

The bottom line is that a cover letter is still a valuable piece of your job search collateral. Nail your cover letter and you could end up getting that dream job.

So what exactly do you need to accomplish in your cover letter?

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

According to 49% of HR managers , your cover letter is the second best way to call attention to your resume and distinguish yourself from other applicants.

So the main purpose of your cover letter is to compel the recruiter to read more about you on your resume and move you to the next part of the hiring process.

Further, according to award-winning resume expert Melanie Denny , your cover letter is your value proposition letter. It proves why you are the best candidate to address the company’s needs with the professional skills and qualifications to succeed in the job.

Here’s an example of a great cover letter:

Now let’s get into the details of what your cover letter needs to include.

Cover Letter Structure Checklist

Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to include in your cover letter.

• Contact Details Name Address (or City, State with zip code) Phone number Email address
• Greeting Whenever possible, address the hiring manager by name.
• Opening Who are you? What are your relevant skills and accomplishments?
• Body (1-2 paragraphs) What do you know about the company? Why are you applying for this job? What value can you bring to the company? Include measurable results when possible.
• Closing Reiterate your interest. Add a Call to Action. Mention any attachments. Use a professional sign-off like “Best” or “Sincerely” before your full name.

Here’s an example for the visual learners out there:

Now that you know the basics of what to include in your cover letter, let’s go through the process from start to finish to see how you can write a cover letter that will make you stand out from the rest of the candidates.

How to write a cover letter in 9 steps

It can be intimidating to try to parse down all your best qualities into a few quick paragraphs for your cover letter.

Here are 9 steps you can take to make sure you’re headed in the right direction:

Step 1. Do your research

Before writing your cover letter, thoroughly read the job description and the requirements for the job.

Melanie Denny , award-winning resume expert, likens the job description to your cover letter cheat sheet. And when checking the job description, she says you need to consider the following:

• What are the company’s priorities?
• What are their goals for the role?
• What outcomes and accomplishments in your previous roles match the goals?
• What are the key phrases and verbiage the company uses?

This will help you customize your cover letter, angle yourself and your narrative to fit the role better, and impress the hiring manager.

Try reaching out to the recruiter, hiring manager, or someone working in the company if you want more in-depth information about the company and the position you are applying for.

Step 2. Customize your cover letter for every job

Make sure your cover letter matches the job you are applying for. Writing a generic cover letter is a missed opportunity as this will not appeal to the recruiter or hiring manager. According to research from ResumeGo , 81% of HR professionals value job-specific cover letters over generic ones. Jobseekers who had tailored cover letters received a 53% higher callback rate compared to those who had no cover letter.

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to prove that you are passionate about working for a given company, so take the time to write a tailored cover letter for each position . You can do this by mentioning your skills and experience that are directly related to what’s mentioned in the job description. If you’re applying for a data analyst role that requires expertise in Microsoft Power BI, cite an example of a Power BI dashboard you built and how it helped the company.

Read our full guide: How to Optimize Your Cover Letter

Step 3. Include all of your contact info

You should make it easy for the hiring manager to reach you. In your cover letter, list these three things:

• Address (including zip code– for ATS purposes )
• Phone number with area code
• Email address
• Name of the Hiring Manager
• Name of the Company
• Address of the Company

Traditionally, your contact information is included in the upper left corner of your cover letter if you’re writing in a document. If you’re writing an email, this can be included beneath your signature at the end of the message.

Cover Letter Header Example:

Jane Jobscan Seattle, WA 98101 (555) 555-5555 • [email protected] linkedin.com/in/jane-jobscan

February 25, 2024

Lavinia Smith Hiring Manager Media Raven, Inc. Plantersville, MS 38862

Step 4. Address your cover letter to a real person

According to Melanie Denny, resume expert and President of Resume-Evolution, addressing your cover letter to a real person and addressing them by their name feels more personal and shows recruiters and hiring managers that you took time and did the research.

You can usually find the hiring manager’s name by searching the company website or LinkedIn profile, or by calling the company and asking which hiring manager is assigned to the particular position.

Once you learn the name, a simple greeting of “John” or “Hello John” is all you need.

If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, you can use any of the following:

• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear (Department) Team
• To whom it may concern

Read our full guide: How to Address a Cover Letter

Step 5. Write a strong opening statement

Melanie Denny suggests that you start your cover letter with a bang. This will hook the hiring manager’s interest and show them how you can be a valuable addition to the team.

Here are things you can do:

• Open with a thought-provoking question
• Make a big claim about what you can do for the company
• Say something relevant and specific to the company

For example,

“I want to bring the marketing department of Media Raven Inc. to the next level and help the company exceed goals and reach more customers as Marketing Manager.”

Step 6. Prove how your professional background and skills help the company in the body of your cover letter

Take advantage of this real estate and prove to the prospective employer how your background, values, and professional experiences position you as the best fit for what the role requires.

This is especially important if you are switching careers. Highlight your relevant accomplishments in your cover letter, showcase your transferable skills, and explain how you can help the company address its challenges and succeed.

For example:

“As the Director of Marketing at ABC Company since 2018, I directed all phases of both the creative and technical elements of marketing initiatives, including data mining, brand creation, print/web collateral development, lead generation, channel partner cultivation, customer segmentation/profiling, as well as CRM and acquisition strategies.

Perhaps most importantly, I offer a history of proven results, as evidenced by the following marketing accomplishments for my current employer:

• Captured a 28% expansion in customer base since 2018, achieved during a period of overall decline in the retail industry.
• Led national marketing campaign (comprised of trade shows, media, and PR initiatives) for my company’s newly launched technology services division
• Developed and executed SEO strategy that achieved and sustained top 3 rankings on Google (organic, nonpaid results) for key product search terms.
• Oversaw the creation of a new company logo and rebranded 100+ products to cement a cohesive corporate identity and support new company direction.”

Just like when writing a resume, your cover letter should only include the most relevant and positive information about you. To home in on the right skills and qualifications to mention, try scanning your cover letter .

Read our full guide: What Do You Put in a Cover Letter?

Step 7. Write a strong closing statement and a call to action

Use the closing of your cover letter to:

• Thank the hiring manager for their time
• Mention any attachments (resume, portfolio, samples)
• Invite to schedule an interview
• Let the hiring manager know that you will follow up

Keep the closing professional and try not to sound too eager since that can come off as desperate. You must also keep in mind the tone and personality of the company you’re communicating with.

“Given the opportunity, I’m confident I can achieve similar groundbreaking marketing results for Media Raven, Inc.

Ms. Smith, I would welcome the chance to discuss your marketing objectives and how I can help you attain them. Feel free to call me at (555) 555-5555 or email me at [email protected] to arrange a meeting. I look forward to speaking with you.”

Read our full guide: How to End a Cover Letter With a Call to Action

Step 8. End with a professional closing salutation

To finish out the closing , use a formal signature. You can use “Sincerely,” “Best,” “Regards,” “Yours,” or any other professional signoff.

Use your first and last name as your signature. If you’re sending your cover letter in the body of an email, make sure it’s your personal email account that does not list your current work signature beneath the email. Your other option is to write the cover letter in a word document, save it as a PDF, and attach it to your email.

Step 9. Optimize your cover letter for the ATS

The Applicant Tracking System or the ATS is a software that companies use to screen applications and shrink their pool of applicants. Through the ATS database, a recruiter or hiring manager can just search for specific skills and keywords and the ATS will return a list of the top candidates who match the search criteria.

To optimize your cover letter for ATS, you need to:

• Carefully read the job description
• Take note of skills and resume keywords frequently mentioned
• Incorporate these keywords into your cover letter

Read our full guide: How to Optimize Your Cover Letter to Beat the ATS

Does your cover letter pass the test?

Scan your cover letter to see how well it matches the job you're applying for. Optimize your cover letter and resume with Jobscan to get more interviews.

How to Format Your Cover Letter

A cover letter is a letter, but that doesn’t mean you should just plop everything onto the page in a stream-of-consciousness flow. After all, cover letter formats determine the order in which the hiring manager learns about you, which can significantly influence their first impression. Use the format order below as a guideline for building the structure of your cover letter.

Notice how the topics flow like a conversation? When you first meet someone, you introduce yourself, tell them your name and a little about yourself, and then leave the conversation open for future meetings.

Your cover letter is just a like having a conversation with someone for the first time. Keeping that in mind will help you to keep things simple and focus on the right information.

Below are some examples of how to format your cover letter for different types of applications.

How to format your cover letter for a job

• State your name
• Explain your work history
• Tell them what you can do for their company
• Say goodbye

How to format your cover letter for an internship

• Explain your coursework history and education
• Explain what you can gain professionally

How to format your cover letter with no experience

• Explain your skillset and character qualities that make you well-suited for the role
• Outline entry-level achievements

You can also check out our cover letter templates to help you as you write your own cover letter.

Do you want to save time and receive instant feedback on your cover letter? Check out Jobscan’s cover letter tool .

Read more : How to Write a Resume for Today’s Job Market

Cover Letter Examples

Here are some examples to help you create a cover letter that will make you stand out and give a strong first impression.

1. Internship Cover Letter Example

2. Career Change Cover Letter Example

3. Operations Manager Cover Letter Example

4. Communications Professional Cover Letter Example

5. Software Engineer Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Do’s and Don’ts

Aside from the basic steps of how to write a cover letter, there are some things you definitely need to make sure you avoid – and things you can’t skip! Follow these do’s and don’ts for writing a cover letter, and you’ll end up with a much better result.

• Use a cover letter unless one was requested.
• Attach a cover letter directly to your resume unless requested to do so.
• Use the same boilerplate cover letter for multiple job applications.
• Over-explain your work history, employment gaps, or qualifications – save it for the interview.
• Badmouth any of your past employers.
• Use the cover letter to complain or tell about your job search journey.
• Use non-standard formatting like tables, columns, or graphics. (ATS can’t read those and your cover letter copy might not be scannable by the system.)
• Use long paragraphs.
• Customize a cover letter for every job application that asks for one.
• Incorporate the top skills or keywords from the job description in your cover letter.
• Include the company name and address, the job title, and point of contact’s name on your cover letter.
• Incorporate relevant and compelling measurable results in your cover letter.
• Explain, briefly, any dramatic shifts in a career (i.e. you are changing industries or job titles).
• Use company information to relate your interest in the job.
• Keep your cover letter concise.
• Convey WHY you are right for the position.

More Cover Letter Tips

• When emailing your cover letter, be strategic with your subject line. Never leave the subject line blank, and double-check for specific instructions in the job posting. If possible, use the email subject line to sell yourself. For example: “Experienced Software Engineer Seeks Senior Level Mobile Position.”
• Keep your cover letter brief and to the point. The hiring manager will be reading many cover letters. By carefully selecting your words and experiences to include, you can stand out from the crowd of applicants.
• Be confident. Let the hiring manager know the reasons why you deserve this position, and make yourself believe them too!
• Your cover letter should not be simply a rephrasing of your resume. Let your personality show and go into further detail about your most valuable skills and experiences.
• Do your research on the company and position before writing the cover letter. It should be customized to that specific company’s values and needs. Hiring managers can spot a generic resume from a mile away.
• Use the job posting as your guide for what topics, skills, and experience to focus on.
• The best cover letters include keywords from the job posting. Applicant tracking systems may scan your cover letter along with your resume and will be using these keywords to sort through the applicants.
• Check for spelling and grammar errors.
• Send your cover letter as a PDF to avoid readability issues and to present the most professional application package.
• Scan Your Cover Letter with Jobscan to make sure you’re checking all the boxes.

Optimize Your Cover Letter with Jobscan’s Cover Letter Scanner

In addition to resume scans, Jobscan Premium users can also scan their cover letters against a job description.

This generates a report of the top hard skills and soft skills found in the job description that should be included in your cover letter, plus additional checks for optimal length, contact information, measurable results, and more.

Here’s how it works:

Key Takeaways

Your cover letter gives recruiters, hiring managers, and prospective employers an overview of your professional qualifications and relevant accomplishments that position you as the best candidate for the job.

So you have to make your cover letter powerful and interesting enough to make the recruiter or hiring manager read your resume and move you to the next step of the hiring process.

Here are key pointers when writing your cover letter.

• Make sure you’ve read the job description and done your research about the company.
• Get to know the name of the recruiter or hiring manager so you can address your cover letter properly.
• Include relevant and measurable accomplishments in the body of your cover letter to prove to the hiring manager that you have what it takes to succeed in the job.
• Keep your cover letter short and concise.
• Your cover letter is not a substitute for your resume so don’t just copy and paste whatever is in your resume into your cover letter.

One last important reminder!

Having a strong cover letter is not enough. You also need to create a killer resume to make sure you stand out and land job interviews.

Learn more about writing a cover letter

How to Address a Cover Letter

10 Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

The Career Change Cover Letter: How to Get it Right

What Do You Put in a Cover Letter?

Is Your Cover Letter Robot-Approved?

How to End a Cover Letter with a Call to Action

Frequently asked questions, what are the different types of cover letters.

There are four types of cover letters.

• Application cover letter An application cover letter is what you send to the recruiter or hiring manager along with your resume.
• Prospecting cover letter You send this when you want to inquire prospective employers about open positions in their company or put yourself top-of-mind when they do decide to hire.
• Networking cover letter You will send this to professionals in your network in hopes of getting referrals, introductions, job search advice, and job opportunities.
• Career change cover letter This is what you send when you are switching careers or industries.

What tense should I use when writing a cover letter?

It can be appropriate to change tenses throughout your cover letter.

For example, you can explain who you are in the present tense and explain important aspects of your work history in the past tense. You can switch to future perfect tense when discussing the ways you would perform if given the position.

Think of it like this, “I am ABC, I did XYZ previously, and I look forward to doing EFG in this position.”

What to include in a cover letter

Our cover letter guidelines above explain how to write a cover letter more deeply, but in summary, you should always include your name, relevant work experience, and reasons why you are right for the job in your cover letter.

When not to include a cover letter

• When the job posting clearly states not to include a cover letter
• When you don’t have the time and energy to customize your cover letter. It’s better not to send a cover letter than to send a half-baked and mediocre one.
• When you are applying online and there is no field to upload your cover letter.
• When your cover letter has a lot of typos and errors.

What should you send first: a cover letter or a resume?

Typically, your cover letter and resume will be sent as a pair, but your cover letter is meant to be an introduction to your resume. If it is an email, use the cover letter in the body and attach your resume, otherwise, attach both.

Pro Tip: Be sure to review all instructions in the job description to follow the hiring manager’s requests.

How long should a cover letter be?

According to 70% of recruiters, a cover letter should not exceed 250 to 300 words.

Although there is no hard and fast rule about this, the ideal cover letter length should be around half a page to one full page in length to keep your message concise, clear, and easy to digest.

Should a cover letter be sent as a file attachment?

If it is not specified in the job posting, a cover letter can be sent either as an attachment (PDF is best) or in the body of an application email with your resume attached.

How to share a cover letter with a potential employer

There are several methods of sharing a cover letter with potential employers, depending on their application process.

Cover letters can be written on a document and turned into a PDF to be uploaded to a job application website or attached to an email along with your resume.

In other cases, your cover letter can simply be written in the email message to a hiring manager, with your resume attached.

How to title and save your cover letter

The key in every aspect of job applications is to make yourself an easy “yes” for your potential employer. That means making it easy for the hiring manager to keep track of your application materials for later review. With this in mind, make sure your full name and the phrase “cover letter” are included in the file label. Other helpful details might include the job title you’re applying for or the year of your application.

Here are a few examples:

• Your Name_Cover Letter_Job Title.pdf
• Cover Letter_Your Name_Job Title.pdf
• Job Title_Your Name_Cover Letter.pdf
• Your Name_Cover Letter_2024.pdf
• Cover Letter_Your Name_2024.pdf

Explore more cover letter resources

Cover Letter Formats

ATS-Optimized Cover Letter

Cover Letter Templates

Generate a personalized cover letter in as little as 5 seconds

Say goodbye to the stress of writing a cover letter from scratch. Our AI-powered cover letter generator uses GPT-4 technology to create a personalized and ATS-friendly cover letter in one click. Stand out from the competition and land more job interviews.

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What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter

A cover letter is a formal letter that complements a resume or other position application materials. It allows you to introduce yourself to an organization and demonstrate effective written communication by expressing your interest and showcasing your education, experience, and skills.

It is important for this document to not replicate your resume, but to highlight your accomplishments, strengths, and transferable skills focusing on what you’ve learned and how you will add value. A cover letter is an important part of the job search process and should be tailored to the position for which you are applying. They are typically one page and three to four paragraphs. Save your cover letter as a PDF before sending it.

FOUR QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF BEFORE BUILDING A COVER LETTER

• What are three reasons why you’d like to be in this specific position at this organization compared to others like it?
• What is the organization’s mission statement and/or values?
• How can you tie in your past experiences to fit in with the position description the organization is looking for?
• How does this job and company align with your vision for yourself in the future?

KEY AREAS OF A COVER LETTER

Opening Section: Who You Are and Why You Are Applying

• Name the job for which you are applying and how you learned about it
• Briefly highlight your education, skills, and experience
• If appropriate, mention the name of the person who referred you to the organization

Second Section: Your Skills and Qualifications

• Discuss the skills and strengths you bring to the job, and explicitly connect them to the tasks of the position
• Provide brief examples of a few related achievements or experiences, discussing how it can transfer to the position
• Even if you haven’t done the exact things the job entails, you can show your preparedness through transferable skills

Third Section: You and the Company

• Demonstrate that you’ve researched the company by incorporating information such as their mission statement, motto, services or products and relating it to your previous experience, goals, and why you are interested in working for them
• State why you would be a good fit for the organization, emphasizing how you can help the organization reach its goals
• Some organizations may have a focus on helping employees grow, but overall focus on what you offer, not what you want

Closing Section: Wrapping Up

• Very briefly restate any important themes, creatively tying them together into a cohesive conclusion
• State that you are available for a personal interview at your reader’s convenience
• Make it easy for the person to contact you: list your email address, as well as your phone number. Even if this information is on the resume, list it here again, as you do not want to make the employer search for a way to contact you
• Thank the reader for their time

DO I NEED A COVER LETTER?

A cover letter, while not always “required” for an application, gives you another opportunity to share your interest in the position and introduce your resume in context. Although cover letters can be time-consuming to write, they can help the search committee/hiring manager understand more about you and your skills and qualifications. This can help your application stand out from others.

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How to Write a Letter of Introduction (With Examples)

By Priya Jain

Published: January 22, 2024

Writer & Career Coach

Writing a letter of introduction serves as a tool for individuals and businesses to establish new connections, explore opportunities, or introduce services and products. An effectively written letter of introduction can open doors to job opportunities, business collaborations, and networking.

Whether you’re a freelancer seeking new clients, a business looking to forge new partnerships, or an individual exploring job opportunities, a compelling introduction letter can set the stage for fruitful interactions.

In this article, we explain what a letter of introduction is, explore what to include, and give examples you can use while creating your letter. 

What Is a Letter of Introduction?

A letter of introduction is a document that introduces one party to another. It can serve various purposes in different contexts, including professional, academic, or personal settings. 

This letter can be used to introduce oneself or by someone else to introduce a third party. The key purpose is establishing a connection or a rapport with the recipient, usually with a specific goal, such as exploring job opportunities, proposing business collaborations, or extending networks.

Individuals can use letters of introduction in social settings, like joining a new club or group, where you want to introduce yourself to the members. These letters often introduce a third party, like a colleague or a friend, to your contacts. This can be particularly helpful in professional networking or recommending someone for a job or project .

The Difference Between a Letter of Introduction and a Cover Letter

A letter of introduction and a cover letter are very different. Letters of introduction are generally used when you want to establish a new relationship that may or may not be job-related. It could be an introduction to a potential business partner, a networking contact, or a new community or group. 

On the other hand, a cover letter is job-related. It’s sent alongside a resume when applying for a job. The cover letter focuses on why the applicant is suitable for a specific job, highlighting skills and experiences directly relevant to the job description. It’s more tailored to a particular role or company.

Letter of Introduction Examples

Here are some examples you can take inspiration from:

Job Application Letter of Introduction

This letter aims to introduce yourself to a potential employer, highlight relevant skills and experiences, express interest in the position, and provide a glimpse of your personality.

You can use this example to write a job application introduction letter:

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my keen interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With [X years] of experience in [relevant field/industry], I have developed a comprehensive skill set that aligns with your team’s requirements.

My experience at [Previous Company] involved [mention key responsibilities or projects related to the new job]. I am particularly excited about the opportunity at [Company Name] because of [reasons specific to the company or role].

Enclosed is my resume, which further outlines my achievements. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills can contribute to the continued success of [Company Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your esteemed team.

[Your Name] [Your Contact Information]

Networking Introduction Letter

A networking introduction letter is a valuable tool for establishing new professional connections . It’s a way of introducing yourself to someone in your industry or field whom you haven’t met but wish to connect with for networking purposes.

Here’s an example:

Dear [Contact’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am [Your Name], currently working as a [Your Job Title] at [Your Company]. I came across your profile on [LinkedIn/Professional Event] and was impressed by your extensive experience in [relevant field/industry].

I am reaching out to expand my professional network in the [specific industry or field] and would value the opportunity to learn from your insights. [Mention any mutual connections or shared interests, if applicable].

If you are open, I would appreciate talking with you briefly. I want to hear about your experiences, particularly regarding [specific topic or question].

Thank you for considering my request. I understand the value of your time and would be flexible to accommodate your schedule.

Best regards,

Cold Outreach Letter of Introduction

A cold outreach letter of introduction is used when contacting someone who does not know you or is not expecting your communication. It’s typically used professionally to introduce yourself, your company, or your products/services to a potential client, partner, or employer.

Here’s an example:  

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I am the [Your Position] at [Your Company]. I am reaching out to introduce our company and the innovative solutions we offer in [specific service or product area].

I believe that [Recipient’s Company] could significantly benefit from our [services/products], especially in [specific area of improvement or opportunity you’ve identified in their business]. We have partnered successfully with companies like yours, such as [mention any relevant clients or case studies], and achieved [mention specific results or improvements].

I would love the opportunity to discuss this further with you. Would you be available for a brief call next week? I am also attaching a brief overview of our services for your reference.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to working together.

Warm regards,

Letter of Introduction Template

Creating a letter of introduction involves a structured approach to presenting your information effectively.

Here’s a template that you can adapt based on your specific needs:

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number]

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title] [Company/Organization Name] [Company Address] [City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

[Introductory Paragraph: Briefly introduce yourself, stating your name and current position or role. Explain how you came across the recipient, their work, or their organization.]

[Second Paragraph: State the purpose of your letter. Are you seeking a job opportunity, looking to network, or proposing a collaboration? Be specific about your intentions and why you are contacting this particular individual or company.]

[Third Paragraph: Concisely overview your relevant background and experience. Focus on key aspects of your career or education that align with the purpose of your letter.]

[Fourth Paragraph: Highlight one or two significant accomplishments or skills. Use specific examples demonstrating your capabilities and how they relate to the recipient’s needs or interests.]

[Fifth Paragraph: Mention any personal qualities or soft skills that set you apart and are relevant to the context of your introduction. Relate these traits to how they can be beneficial in achieving the goals outlined in your letter.]

[Call to Action: Clearly state what you hope to achieve with this letter. Whether it’s a follow-up meeting, a phone call, or further discussions, provide a clear action you’d like the recipient to take.]

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. I am very interested in [discussing further, learning more about, etc.] and look forward to the possibility of [working together, meeting you, etc.]. Please contact me at [your email address] or [phone number].

[Your Name] [Attachments: Mention attachments such as your resume, portfolio, or other relevant documents.]

What You Need to Include in a Letter of Introduction

Incorporating specific elements in your letter of introduction can significantly enhance its effectiveness.

Here’s a breakdown of what to include following your provided structure:

Begin with a formal greeting. This is the initial greeting and sets the tone for the letter. Use a formal tone like “Dear [Recipient’s Name]”. If the recipient’s name is unknown, “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern” are alternatives. Personalizing the salutation, however, is preferable if you know the recipient’s name.

Introduction

Introduce yourself by stating your name and your current position or role in a professional context. This section should be brief, offering a snapshot of who you are. For instance, “My name is Jane Doe, and I am a Marketing Manager at XYZ Corporation.”

Purpose of the Letter

Clearly articulate why you are writing this letter. This might be to introduce yourself in a job search context, to propose a business collaboration, or to establish a new professional relationship. Be specific about why you’re contacting this particular individual or organization.

Background Information

Provide a concise overview of your professional background relevant to the purpose of your letter. This could include your current job, professional journey, or key areas of expertise. The aim is to give the reader context about your professional standing.

Relevant Accomplishments

Highlight significant achievements that are pertinent to the recipient. These could be successful projects you’ve led, awards you’ve won, or specific contributions you’ve made in previous roles. The objective is to showcase your competence and success in areas relevant to the letter’s purpose.

Personal Qualities

Share personal attributes that make you well-suited for the intended purpose of your letter. For instance, you might emphasize qualities like leadership, innovation, or collaborative skills if you are applying for a job. This part is about showing your personality and fit.

Call to Action

This is a crucial component where you suggest the next steps. It could be a request for a follow-up meeting, a phone call, or an invitation to review your application. Make it clear what you want the recipient to do next.

Conclude your letter with a formal and professional closing. Common closings include “Sincerely”, “Best regards”, or “Kind regards”, followed by your full name. This part signifies the end of your letter respectfully.

Attachments

If you include additional documents, such as a resume or portfolio, mention them here. For example, “Enclosed, please find my resume, which provides further details about my professional experience.”

What Not to Include in a Letter of Introduction

When writing a letter of introduction, it’s important to be aware of certain elements that should be avoided.

Here are what not to include: 

Unsubstantiated Claims

Your letter should avoid making broad statements about your abilities or achievements without providing specific examples or evidence to support them. For instance, rather than simply stating that you’re an excellent communicator, provide a brief example or mention a relevant accomplishment demonstrating this skill. The goal is to be as concrete and specific as possible to build credibility.

Clichés and Overused Phrases

Avoid overused phrases and clichés that don’t add substantive information to your introduction. Phrases like “team player,” “hard worker,” or “go-getter” are commonly used and don’t distinguish you from other candidates. Instead, use unique descriptions specifically tailored to your experiences and qualifications.

Unrealistic Promises

Be cautious about making promises or commitments that you might not be able to fulfill. Overpromising to impress can backfire if you cannot deliver on those promises later. It’s important to be honest and realistic about what you can offer to the potential employer or contact.

Best Practices for Writing Letters of Introduction

When writing a letter of introduction, following these best practices can greatly enhance the effectiveness and professional impact of your letter:

Tailoring the Letter to the Audience

By researching and familiarizing yourself with the recipient’s work and organization, you can ensure that your letter speaks directly to their needs and interests. Personalization in the letter demonstrates that you have taken the time to understand who they are and what they value, which can significantly increase the effectiveness of your message.

Keeping It Concise and Focused

An effective letter conveys your message in a clear, succinct manner. Long letters can dilute the impact of your key points and lose the reader’s interest. 

Structuring your letter with a clear beginning, middle, and end helps maintain this focus. The introduction should grab attention, the body should elaborate on your purpose and relevant qualifications, and the conclusion should reiterate your intent and suggest the next steps.

Showcasing Personality and Authenticity

An impactful letter is about what you say and how you say it. Infusing your letter with genuine personality and authenticity makes your message resonate more with the recipient. It’s about striking the right balance between professional decorum and personal touch.

Sharing your motivations, interests, or perspectives in a way that aligns with the professional context can make your letter memorable and establish a more personal connection with the recipient.

Proofreading for Clarity and Professionalism

The final yet crucial step in drafting your letter is thorough proofreading. This step is imperative for ensuring your letter is free from grammatical errors and typos and communicates your message.

A well-written and professionally presented letter reflects your attention to detail and commitment to quality. Having someone else review your letter is often beneficial, as a fresh pair of eyes can catch errors and provide feedback on your message’s overall clarity and tone.

About the Author

Read more articles by Priya Jain

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Destination of the Year 2024: Costa Rica

Destinations.

• Central & South America
• Destination of the Year 2024

Introduction

Picture yourself on a white-sand beach, surrounded by palm trees. In the distance, surfers ride the breaking waves. Behind you rises a dense rainforest, where white-faced capuchin monkeys jump from branch to branch. Welcome to Costa Rica . 

I grew up in Costa Rica, and while I’ve lived all over the U.S., I'm always drawn back home. In the northwest, a dry tropical forest stretches down the Nicoya Peninsula. The laid-back beach towns that dot this part of the Pacific coast include Nosara, a mecca for surfing and yoga, and my favorite, the lesser-known San Juanillo, which still has the charm of a small fishing village. Farther south, Santa Teresa has an intriguing mix of cultures and superb international cuisine.

Venture inland and you’ll reach the Guanacaste pampas, with its sabaneros — Costa Rican cowboys — and rich pre-Columbian and colonial history. I love to walk through the town of Nicoya, one of the first Spanish settlements in the country and the home of the Chorotega people.

On the Caribbean side of the country, you’ll find the freshwater canals and serene rivers that meander through the rainforest of Barra del Colorado National Wildlife Refuge and Tortuguero National Park. In Limón, the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture includes the sounds of calypso and an aromatic cuisine built around strong spices and coconut milk.

If hiking is your passion, try the Camino de Costa Rica, a 174-mile trail that cuts across the country: starting in Barra del Pacuare on the Atlantic coast and eventually winding into the Dota Mountains — the place where I grew up. 

Off the Osa Peninsula, in southern Costa Rica, is the Golfo Dulce, a sanctuary for Pacific humpback whales. The region is defined by mangrove swamps and Corcovado National Park, which protects one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world — and where it is possible to see a jaguar strolling along a white-sand beach.

I could go on and on. There is no single recipe for enjoying Costa Rica. Any road you take will likely bring the same result: a sense of wonder and a desire to return. We Costa Ricans are relatively few — the population barely exceeds 5 million. But we’re proud of our shared idea that things will always turn out fine and that life is, above all, beautiful.

— Ronny Rojas

Cover shot on iPhone 15 Pro Max

Cover Story

If 2024 is your year for retirement, then one, congratulations, and two, we've got a destination for you to consider moving to in your golden years. 

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Experiences, culture & style.