How to write a cover letter in 6 steps
Here are six simple steps to writing a great cover letter. In the sections below, we'll offer detailed
information about what to include in each area with examples.
1. Start with your header
As with any standard business letter header, you should include a few pieces of personal and role-
specific information at the top of your cover letter to make it easier for a hiring manager or recruiter to
follow up with you. If you'd like, you can center your name and address at the top of the page, mirroring
how it looks on your resume.
Header template:
Your name
Your city and ZIP code
Your phone number
Your email address
Date
Name of recipient
Title of recipient
Company name
Company address
Header example:
Ali Lang
ali.lang@email.com
555 Orchard Lane, Las Vegas, NV(555) 888-4000
May 5, 20XX
Terry Washington
Revolve Inc.
123 Vineyard Drive, Las Vegas, NV
Related: Q&A: Should You Put Your Address on Your Resume?
2. Include a greeting
In your research, try to find the name of the person reviewing applications for the job. Address your
letter to this person with a common business greeting, such as "Dear [first and last name]" or "Dear
[position title]." Avoid using "To whom it may concern."
Greetings example:
Dear Hiring Manager,
Dear Tyler Wallace,
Related: How To Address a Cover Letter
3. Write an opening paragraph
In the first paragraph, mention the job title you're applying for and where you saw the position posting.
Explain your interest in the role and company to show you've done your research. The first section of
your cover letter is also the first impression the reader will have of you, so it's important to appeal to
that person quickly and succinctly.
Opening paragraph example:
"I'm excited to apply for the Graphic Designer position at Cloud Clearwater I found on Indeed. I
understand you're currently adding several new product lines, and I believe my skills in video and
animation provide a significant advantage for creating a successful launch. As a longtime fan of your
products, I'm thrilled at the opportunity to bring my unique style and passion for beachwear to the
company."
4. Add a second paragraph
Your second paragraph should be a brief overview of your background as it relates to the position.
Include key achievements, skills and specialties that make you particularly suited to the position. Focus
on one or two and provide specific details about your success, including measurable impacts you made.
Pay close attention to keywords listed in the job description and include those you identify with in the
body of your cover letter. You should only include information about your most recent professional
experiences.
Second paragraph example:
"As the Director of Human Resources at Wes Morgan Philips, I was a key senior leader in the
organization and was responsible for improving the efficiency and performance of the company's 540
employees. Before that, I worked in human resources, equal employment opportunity and diversity for
Jenkins Technology Solutions, Inc. At Jenkins Technology, I developed an employee retention plan
involving a wellness program, an internal training program and a promotions selection process. This led
to a 50% reduction in the overall employee turnover rate."
5. Finish with a closing paragraph
The closing paragraph should focus on another key achievement or skill relevant to the position. Instead
of repeating details from your resume, summarize a specific story or anecdote that displays you're right
for the role. If you're changing careers, this is a good opportunity to talk about transferable skills or
relatable experiences from your career.
Closing paragraph example:
"Achieving ambitious marketing goals is always a top priority, and I am always looking out for the
company's best interests. I enjoy delivering marketing presentations to potential clients and focusing on
an organization's strengths. My marketing skills at River Tech helped the company experience new levels
of success and a 45% increase in customer engagement. I'm never satisfied with the status quo, and I
believe that a company should continually look for ways to improve and reach new clients through
innovative campaigns."
Related: Career Change Cover Letter Guide (With Examples)
6. End with a professional signoff
You should end your cover letter with a paragraph summarizing why you are applying for the role and
why you would be a great fit. Keep the cover letter conclusion brief and explain that you look forward to
the employer's response about possible next steps. End with your signature at the bottom.
Signoff example:
"Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to learning more about the sales position and
TradeLot. Growth is essential to my continued success, and I'm excited for the chance to be a part of
TradeLot's industry-leading team. My proven track record and TradeLot's quality products are a winning
combination for increasing the company's market share.
Sincerely,
Malik Rabb
