best job application letter in kenya

Best Sample Job Application Letter in Kenya Today

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By Michelle Wanjiku

A job application letter is the most important part of a job application. This is what you use to show the employer that you are uniquely qualified for the position you are applying for.

Having a well written job application letter is therefore paramount to you getting shortlisted for an interview.

Sadly most people overlook this important step and end up making mistakes that cost them the job in the end.

Here are some tips to help you as you write your job application letter.

1. Tailor make it

Most people think that they can use the same generic cover letter to apply for all the jobs. This is not true as every position is different and as such the cover letter should also be different.

2. Give relevant experience.

For example, when applying for a Finance position it is important that whatever experience you put in the job application letter be related to finance. There is no point I giving your sales experience unless the job description specifically asked for someone with sales experience.

Giving irrelevant experience takes up space and doesn’t really show that you are suited for the position.

3. Address the recipient

When drafting your job application letter it is important that you address it to the one who will receive it by their last name.

Make sure you find out who will get your job application letter and use their name in the salutation as opposed to dear sir/madam. This will show that you took the time to research and that you are truly interested in the position.

4. Make it short

There is no point in having a job application letter that is 2 pages long. The hiring managers do not have time to read through all this and as such your application will be thrown out. The trick is to keep it short and cover the important parts.

Here is a sample Job Application Letter for a Finance Position.

Michelle Wanjiku P.O Box 5555- 00100 Nairobi Email: [email protected] January 2016

The Human Resources Manager XYZ Company P.O. Box 8596-00100 Nairobi.

Dear Mrs. Wamaitha,

RE: APPLICATION FOR THE FINANCE POSITION

I am writing in relation to the above mentioned Finance position. As advertised, I possess experience in financial management and I am currently pursuing a Degree in Business Management, Finance Option.

Currently though, I am in- charge of Financial Management with ABC company where I am tasked with managing accounting books.

Additionally, I have served as an Accountant with GHF Ltd Clearing and Forwarding Company where I was in-charge of accurately updating the cash book and preparing bank and general ledger reconciliations, filling finance related documents and accounting records to ensure easy tracing and checking petty cash vouchers for proper authorization and acknowledgment of cash by recipients and ensuring proper posting of the same.

Over and above, my approach to my work goes beyond my job description, as I am always looking for ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs. I am well versed in leading teams and I have significant expertise in training and mentoring junior staff members.

I am looking forward to playing a vital role in financial decision-making and adding significant value to your company. I would also like to mention that I am looking forward to joining your organization and offer my contribution in its financial stability and development, thereby assisting in the growth of the organization within the market financially.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Michelle Wanjiku

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How To Write Job Application Letter Sample For Any Position

It has become increasingly necessary for job seekers to submit an application letter alongside their resume during the job application process .

But why is this so important?

First, attaching an application letter helps to set you apart from other applicants and research has shown that about half of recruiters reject job applications without application letters.

So if you're currently job hunting and want to increase your chances of having your resume read and landing an interview, then you need to learn how to write the perfect job application letter.

Now we understand that writing application letters every single time you're applying for a new post can be exhausting. Some of these job openings have a really short application window, leaving you with little to no time to craft out something good from scratch. That is why we have created the perfect job application letter template for any position with a sample you can swipe in a minute.

What Is An Application Letter?

An application letter is a document that can either be attached to your resume, sent in the body of an email or sent as a standalone document to a potential employer, with the sole purpose of expressing your interest in an open job position.

A well-written application letter should give the reader a good reason why you should be called in for an interview and must also highlight key skills and qualifications that make you a great fit for the role being advertised.

Aside from showcasing your job-worthy qualifications, an application letter is a great way of showing your personality and familiarity with the company you're applying to. Feel free to mention your professional goals and aspirations and how they align with the company goals.

What Is The Format Of A Job Application Letter?

When writing a job application letter, you are expected to follow a business letter format. There's also a slight difference when formatting depending on the medium through which it will be sent.

Here are three easy steps on how to format a job application letter

Use a professional format- you must keep your application letter professional and precise. This means that your document must include single line spacing, one-inch margins and left alignment. Avoid using fancy fonts and stick to more traditional ones like Times New Roman, Arial or Calibri. Your font size should be between 10 to 12 points and keep the letter one page long.

Create the heading- use a formal business letter heading if you are submitting a hard copy application. This includes your name and contact information, the date, company name and address. Example of the header:

[Your name]

[Your City]

[Your phone number]

[ Your email address]

[Name of hiring manager]

[Title of hiring manager]

[Company name]

[Company address]

Including your contact information, makes it easy for the hiring manager to follow up with you regarding the job.

The major difference between formatting a hardcopy application letter and an email is in the heading. For an email, you'll need to include a catchy subject line that clearly states your purpose for writing. This will determine if your email gets opened and is read. A simple email application subject line would be "Videographer - Michael Williams". And unlike in a hardcopy version where your contact information is written at the top of the letter, with email, you can place it below your signature.

Address the letter to the hiring manager- Find out the name of the person in charge and address the letter to this person using a common business greeting like Dear Mr/Mrs and their Last Name. If you don't know their gender and which pronouns to use, you can write your greeting as "Dear First and Last Name". And if you're unable to find their names, a simple "Dear Hiring manager will work just fine.

Best Tips For Writing An Application Letter

When writing an application letter, make sure to incorporate the following tips to increase the effectiveness of your letter.

1 . Always send an application letter

You should always send an application letter with your resume for every job you're applying for unless the job ad specifically says not to send one. An application letter helps the employer to learn more about you than they would have from reading just your resume and it also sets you apart from other applicants.

2 . Use keywords

Most job postings will include skills and abilities that they expect candidates to possess. Review the job posting to find out these keywords and incorporate them into your application letter to show the employer that you're a good fit for the role.

3 . Emphasize your skills and abilities

While your resume contains information on your skills and qualifications, an application letter offers your more room to sell yourself as the best candidate for that position. Instead of just listing your skills and accomplishments, give specific examples of how you applied your skills and abilities to situations that benefited the organisation.

For example instead of saying "I managed website content for ABC for 2 years" you can say " I created a content calendar consisting of four SEO-optimized articles per week for ABC's website which saw a 50% increase in organic traffic within 3 months"

4. Keep it brief

While sharing your skills and accomplishments, don't forget to only mention the important stuff and keep it short. Your application letter should be a page long, so focus on mentioning only those things that relate to the position you're applying for.

5. Proofread the letter

Don't be in such a hurry to write and submit your application letter without proofreading and editing. Maintain your professional approach by making sure that your letter is error-free. Check for spelling mistakes, punctuations and proper spacing before you click the send button.

What To Say In A Job Application Letter

If you find yourself struggling with what to say in your application letter, you're not alone. Here are the key things to mention in your application letter.

1 . Express your interest

In the first paragraph of your letter, you're expected to express your interest in the role being advertised. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm through your words. The hiring manager should be able to tell from the tone of the letter that you're excited about working with them and that this is not just another routine letter that you're sending to every other company.

❌ "In response to your job ad for a Graphic designer, I would like to indicate my interest in the position"

✔️ "As a lifelong enthusiast of ABC's marketing initiatives, I was thrilled to see your posting for the position of a Graphics designer in your marketing team".

2. List your experience and qualifications

Right after you have shown interest in the job being advertised, mention your skills, experience and qualifications in a way that aligns with the company's mission and goals. For example, if the role you're applying for is in the financial sector, you can emphasize how you have worked within the accounting department at your previous job.

3. Mention your best personality traits

While maintaining a professional approach, don't forget to mention your best personality traits that show your potential employer that you're friendly and easy-going. If the job requires you to work with a team, you can explain how you value community spirit.

4. Express appreciation

Before your sign off your letter, remember to appreciate the hiring manager for taking out time to read what you have written.

5. Close the letter

Avoid focusing on how much you need the job and instead place emphasis on what you have to offer. Also, avoid repeating cliche phrases like " thanks for your time and consideration" instead close with a promise. A simple way to go about this is to tell the hiring manager that you're looking forward to an interview with them so you can discuss how your knowledge and experience can help them achieve the company's future goals.

To sign off, instead of using "Sincerely" you can replace it with other synonyms like " Best regards", or "Respectfully yours".

6. Add a postscript

All of the above are must-haves in your application letter but this last one is optional. Adding a postscript is a special trick that some people use. The postscript P.S screams "important information that you cannot miss" it draws the reader's attention and leaves them wanting more, hence earning you at least a callback or an interview. You can use this to tell the hiring manager something impressive about your career and say that you'd like to share more details if they are interested.

How To Send A Job Application Letter

There are three ways you can send your application letter, you either submit it through the company’s recruitment portal or via email or a hardcopy alongside your resume in an envelope to the physical address of the company.

Since most companies now digitize their application processes, sending a job application letter through email has become the most popular option. When sending via email, make sure to use a subject line that contains your name and the position you're applying for.

Job Application Letter Template

Contact Information (if you are submitting a hard copy. Not necessary for online applications)

City, State

Phone Number

Email address

Employer's Contact Information (if you are submitting a hard copy. Not necessary for online applications)

City, state

Dear Mr/Ms Last Name or Dear Hiring manager (if you don't have the name of the person in charge)

Body of Application Letter

The body of your application letter is where you show your interest in the job, the position you're applying for, and mention solid reasons why the employer should grant you an interview. It should include about three to four paragraphs and not be more than one page long.

First Paragraph - mention where you saw the job posting, include the name of a mutual contact where applicable, and express your interest in the position

Middle Paragraph- this paragraph can be broken down into two, and for easy comprehension, you can use bullet points to state and explain your experiences and accomplishments.

Final Paragraph- thank the hiring manager for reviewing your letter and including follow-up information.

Sincerely, Best regards

Your Signature (for hardcopy)

Job Application Letter Example

Cassandra Ejiro (if you are submitting a hard copy. Not necessary for online applications)

17 DLA Road

Asaba, Delta State

08145633323

[email protected]

21 July 2022 (if you are submitting a hard copy. Not necessary for online applications)

Hezekiah Obi

Human resource manager

Vienna Int'l Hotel

Warri, Delta State

Dear Mr Obi,

I was thrilled when I came across your job ad for the post of a social media manager on MyJobMag and I decided to give it my best shot.

Looking at your company's ongoing project to launch new community bus terminals, it is obvious that a social media campaign would be a great way to create awareness for the brand, attract potential sponsors and connect with your customers at the grassroots level. I believe I have just what you need to bring this campaign to life.

I've worked as a content manager at New Media group where I had the responsibility of overseeing research, writing, editing and publishing of the company's blog posts. I was also in charge of handling three social media accounts, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram which I successfully grew to above 5000 active followers on each platform within 3 months of consistent posting.

I also have:

Expertise in WordPress, Facebook and Instagram ads

Basic graphic design skills like creating simple picture graphics and slides best for Instagram posts

Feel free to reach out to me at your convenience to discuss your company's goals and needs in the coming year. You can reach me on 0912345678.

Best regards

Cassandra Ejiro

PS: I would love the opportunity to show you how I generated new customer leads from the comments section of the New Media Twitter handle in just a month, using my 30-day content creation calendar.

Now that we know how to write an application letter, it is time to start applying for the right job vacancies in Kenya .

Staff Writer

47 comment(s).

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Sample Cover letter and how to write a job application cover letters

Last updated on: January 12, 2021 by Doris Makori 17 Comments

Sample cover letter and writing guide: Whether you are out searching for a job or is about to graduate, a cover letter is an important document in job seeking. Therefore, there is need for you to know how to write the best cover letter for that dream job to gain higher chances of being invited for interviews. Here is how to write a simple and good job application cover letter:

NOTE for Census: You can download a well written letter meant specifically for census enumerator job application from this page: census en umerators cover letter ( link removed ).

Guide on how to write a cover letter

Start your cover letter by clearly indicating your name and address. In the current times phone numbers and email addresses are more valuable than postal addresses. Remember to indicate the date right after your details.
On the left side of your cover letter indicate the name of the receiver of your cover letter. In most cases it is the Human resources department but then sometimes companies offer different addresses, pay attention.
Provide the proper salutation and since most of the time you might not know who will be reading your letter use the common “Dear Sir/Madam” phrase.
The subject line of your letter should clearly indicate the position applied for, if the company provided a unique job code in their advertisement, be sure to use it.
In your first paragraph illustrate the reason for writing and why you feel you are the correct match.
The second paragraph of your cover letter should be based on convincing the reader as to why they should hire you by giving a more detailed description of your job matching skills.
Conclude your cover letter by indicating your availability on short notice for an interview. Remember to thank the receiver for their time.
Wrap up your cover letter with your full names and a signature.

Sample Cover letter Templates

Sample Cover letter and how to write a job application cover letters

Elvis M. Nyakang’I,

P.O Box 45722-00100,

17th Jan 2018,

Kyote Internet Group Limited

Dear Sir/Madam,

REF : Application For Social Media Executive

I am writing to apply for the position of Social Media Executive, which was advertised in indeed.com .

The opportunity presented is very suit for me, and I believe that my strong technical experience, passion for the work, team player skills and education will make me a very competitive candidate for the position.

I graduated from Moi University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Linguistic Media and Communication.

I have worked as a content editor, Video Editor, Social Media Manager and Photographer for National Geographic (NatGeo), KTN and EDU TV which has helped me gain a deep understanding of content development, web analytics and web rankings techniques (alexa, Google analytics, Webmaster, SEO, Social Media) among others.

I have also trained as a Photographer and received a certificate of exemplary performance from National Geographical a world leader in geography, cartography and exploration .

Other key strengths that I possess have been listed in my CV.

I am available for interview at any time. I can be contacted most easily on mobile phone number +25472000000341. I will be happy if my application is considered fairly.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

Elvis Nyakang’i

Do not miss all our latest updates on how to write acceptable formal cover letters and examples

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February 8, 2023 at 11:46 am

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How to write an application letter for employment

An application letter also known as a cover letter is a document accompanied by the curriculum vitae when applying for a job. Your CV contains your skills, experience and education background in detail while your application letter for employment highlights the requirements you have for your desired job. This article will guide you on how to write an application letter for a job vacancy. Read on to know more.

Writing an application letter requires some skills. Everything has to be professional. Your potential employer will want to see your abilities and talents in your application letter before seeing what you can present. The first rule of writing an application letter is that it should be concise and to the point. Employers do not have time for long letters as they are probably vetting more candidates. Check out job application letter examples and writing tips below.

Steps to writing a good letter of employment

Best CV samples for fresh graduates in Kenya

Prepare and organize your thoughts: Keep in mind that a lot of candidates are applying for the same position. Highlight the most useful or relevant skills and experiences. You need to understand what the employer is looking for and be in a position to convince him or her that you are fit for the job. Explain your qualifications and skills in such a way that the need of the employer will be met. With the ideas of what you want to write in mind, better still, written down; you can then proceed to the actual writing.
Writing guide: This is a totally different write-up from a quick email to your friend or a thank you note to someone you appreciate. There are expectations from those who will receive your application. Meeting the bare minimum would mean better consideration of your case. You need to adhere to spacing, presentation and length guidelines if you want hiring managers to read your letter.
Length: The length should not exceed a page
Font: Have between 10 and 12 points in your font size so as to make your legible.
Formatting and margins: The format and page margins of your letter matter too. Single space your letter with spaces between every paragraph. Align your text to the left if it is not the default setting. Use at least 1” margins and use a favorable font. Times New Roman, Calibri, and Arial are the most suitable MS Word fonts to use in your application letter for a job.

Complete guide to writing an effective appointment letter

READ ALSO: How to write articles in few easy steps

The format of an application letter

The following format should be used when writing an application letter:

This includes both your contact and that of your potential employer. The heading contains your name, postal address, the email, phone number, and the date beneath the contact information. The recipient's contact information includes the company name, the address, and their role. Add the reference just below the contact details.

READ ALSO: How to write a personal profile (with examples)

Introduction

The introduction of an application letter for a job should have a simple salutation such as Dear Mr. /Ms. which is followed by the person's last name. Do not be casual in your greetings. Avoid words like “Hey or hello” and use more professional terms. Only use “To Whom It May Concern” if you are unsure of the name or title person you are addressing. You can also use general salutations like “Dear Human Resources Manager” or “Dear Hiring Manager” if the contact person’s name has not been provided.

A step by step guide for writing an awesome attachment letter

This part contains the most weight in your application letter. Start by mentioning the job you want and where you heard the vacancy from. Next state your qualifications and convince your employer to be that you are the best guy for the job. Mention any accomplishments you have had in your career or how your skills saved a company you previously worked for in your application letter for a job vacancy. Employers love to hear about your achievements as they are assured that your addition to the company will make the firm more successful. Share every detail in your experience.

READ ALSO: How to write a script for a movie or video

In conclusion, be grateful to your potential employer for taking the time to hear you out and thank them for considering you. The conclusion is usually short, just three to four sentences.

Sign off with with a polite close like yours sincerely or yours faithfully. Complete the letter with your handwritten signature followed by your name, typed. Include your contact information as you end..

Different styles used to write letters

Job application letter template

Job application letter sample

(Your contact information )

(Employer’s contacts information )

Dear Sir/Madam, (salutation)

Re: Application for the Sales Manager job

I would like to express my interest in the Sale Manager position that was posted on the Daily Magazine on 4th December 2018. My experience and skills are sufficient enough to meet the requirements of this job. (Indicate your interest in the job and from where you learned about it).

Working as a Sales Manager for MNP Company exposed me to very many activities that enhanced my experience in my line of work. I effectively managed the budgets for the company and solved customer complaints amicably for six years. (Talk about what you did in the past that enabled you to gain the skills).

Attached is my resume providing further details about me. Thank you for considering me. (Express gratitude).

How to write a verification of employment letter

(Signature)

Kate Williams

How to Write a Cover Letter: 10+ Examples, Tips & Templates to Use

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After looking through job offer after neverending job offer, you’ve finally found your dream position.

They offer amazing compensation and benefits. You’ll be surrounded by great coworkers. Perhaps they even have free snacks and great coffee in the breakroom.

Before you can show them how well-suited you are at the interview, you need to write a cover letter that convinces them to give you a shot.

It’s not as hard as you think.

How to Write a Cover Letter:

Format the Cover Letter Template for Perfection
Construct a Cover Letter Header With Addresses & Dates
Open With a Formal Salutation Using Their Name
Introduce Yourself & the Position to Which You’re Applying
Explain How They Benefit From Hiring You
Show Enthusiasm & Inform Them Why They’re the Ideal Workplace for You
Make Them an Offer They Can’t Refuse
Sign Off Using a Closing Sentiment & Your Name
Add a Postscript for One Last Shot at Winning Them Over

After our guide on how to create a cover letter, there are plenty of cover letter tips and advice to make sure you beat out other candidates.

Then, we end the saga by giving you dozens of links to cover letter examples for specific professions. Use these if you want to go more in-depth on how to write a cover letter for a particular career path.

But first, here are…

3 Awesome Cover Letter Examples to Get the Gears Turning

Before we get to our guide on how to write a cover letter for a job, let’s get things started with three great sample cover letters.

One is for an experienced candidate, and another is for an entry-level applicant. The third one is a fill-in-the-blanks cover letter template for you to copy, paste, and use for yourself.

1. Experienced Cover Letter Example (Mid-Level Job)

In this first cover letter sample, we have a seasoned professional applying for a job she’s got experience in.

Annabel is an office assistant in New Jersey. For the unfortunate reason that her last office was shut down, she’s applying for a similar position at a new company.

Let’s look at how Annabel wins the office manager’s heart over with this cover letter example:

Sample cover letter created with our builder: See more templates and create your cover letter now .

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What’d you think?

In less than 300 words, Annabel has definitely created an attention-grabbing cover letter. She shows passion, plenty of experience, and accomplishments to all but secure her a desk and a filing cabinet.

2. Entry-Level Cover Letter Example (First-Time Job)

In this next example, we’re now going to see how to write a cover letter for a job with no experience in that field.

Here we have Thomas.

Thomas just graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. He has no professional working experience in IT, but he is positive he would be a great fit nonetheless.

Let’s watch how he pulls this off:

How about that?

Thomas has had real-world working experience in the past, but his time employed as a barista was to help him get through college. Though he learned some great skills as a barista, they don’t help him much in getting the job as a software engineer.

However, he makes up for his lack of paid IT experience by showing he has the skills, knowledge, and passion for software engineering.

Use this style also when thinking of how to write a cover letter for an internship.

Let’s continue—

3. General Cover Letter Example (Fill-in-the-Blanks Template)

Below is a sample cover letter template you can copy and paste and use for yourself. Simply replace the bold items in brackets with your information, and you’ll have a great, personalized cover letter written in under 15 minutes!

Here is our cover letter sample template:

[Your Full Name]

[Your Professional Title] (Optional)

[Your Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL]

[Date of Writing]

[Employer’s Full Name]

[Employer’s Professional Title]

[Company Name]

[Company Address]

[Company Address Line 2]

Dear [Employer’s Name]:

I was thrilled to locate the [Job Title] at [New Company Name]. With my [## of Years] years working as a [Previous or Current Job Title], I’ve become quite experienced with [Give Example of Most Relevant Skills or Competencies]. I am sure that I possess the necessary skills, background, and experience to be a perfect candidate for this position.

In the employment ad’s job responsibilities section, it says you require a [Job Title] with expertise in [List Competencies You Have Which Are Mentioned in the Job Advertisement]. As a [Previous or Current Job Title] with [Previous or Current Company], I successfully managed [Give One or Two Responsibilities Relevant to the New Job Title]. On top of that, I had a few wins which I am quite proud of, including:

[Add an Achievement With Numbers to Prove You’re Talented]
[Another Accomplishment With Numbers to Drive the Point Home]

Working at [New Company Name] would be an amazing opportunity for me, but not solely because I fit the requirements. Your company also [Mention Something About the Company You Admire, e.g., Values, Projects, Contributions, Ethics, etc.]. Because of that, it would be an honor for me to work for [New Company Name] as the next [Job Title].

Do you have time for a brief chat in the next few days? I’d love to talk about how I can help [New Company Name] achieve its upcoming [Plans , Goals, KPIs, Targets, etc.].

[Digital Signature] (optional)

[Your First & Last Name]

P.S. [Add a Postscript, Optionally, to Remind Them of Your Value, Throw in One More Fact, or to Add a Creative Touch].

Not so bad, right?

This one follows our standard guidelines on what to include in a cover letter. To make sure you don’t neglect any important cover letter sections, see this article: What to Include in a Cover Letter (15+ Examples of What Goes Where)

Also, show your resume the same love and attention—it’s just as important if you want that interview. Read our guide here: How to Write a Resume for a Job

Otherwise, let’s continue—

Here is our step-by-step guide on….

How to Write a Cover Letter

1. format the cover letter before you begin writing.

Most employers prefer to read a resume if a cover letter comes attached.

And guess what?

Those same employers favor a cover letter which is arranged correctly.

Here’s how to format a cover letter effectively:

Align everything to the left side (block formatting), from beginning to end. Don’t use text justification.
Single line space all text (or use 1.15 line spacing).
Use a double space between each cover letter section and paragraph.
Include a 1-inch margin on all sides of the cover letter.
Choose a great cover letter font . Select the font by how legible it is over how pretty it looks.
When in doubt, a cover letter is a business document, so follow formal letter formatting rules.
Pick a cover letter template that matches your resume template to give the employer one unified job application package.
Unless otherwise instructed, send them a cover letter PDF rather than Microsoft Word doc or another format. PDFs look better on more devices than Word cover letters.

Never let your cover letter spill over onto a second page . One page is plenty. In general, the best cover letters are relevant, concise, and have a word count which doesn’t exceed 300 words.

A cover letter should be relatively simple: why you are interested in the position, why the company should be interested in you, and how you fit the job posting. A resume tells the reader where you’ve been while the cover letter tells them where you hope to go. Be authentic, keep that one thing in mind, and don’t overcomplicate it. Krystal Yates career transition mentor, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

Pro Tip: If you choose a creative cover letter template with your personal details enlarged and styled to the center or right, don’t worry. Just make sure it matches your resume, and left-align the remainder of your job application letter.

Want more ideas and tips for formatting a cover letter properly? Read our guide: Cover Letter Format: Templates, Ready-to-Use Layouts, & 20+ Samples

2. Construct a Proper Header Including Your Info and Theirs

The header of a cover letter is quite simple—it’s basically like addressing a postcard. Just your deets, a date, and their info.

Here’s how to write an effective cover letter heading area:

On any formal letter, such as when writing a good cover letter, the sender’s information goes first. Include your name and address, to follow standard letter formatting rules. Add relevant contact information, such as your phone number, email address, or LinkedIn URL.
Leave a line break, then add the date of writing.
Finally, add the recipient’s information, including the name and job title of the person reviewing your application, followed by the company’s name and address.

This is what it looks like in practice:

[Your Job Title] (Optional)

[Hiring Manager’s Full Name]

[Hiring Manager’s Title]

Like I said, piece of cake, right?

Pro Tip: Don’t worry about adding other contact details of the hiring manager or company; their name and address will do.

Want to go into more detail on your cover letter heading? We’ve got a detailed writeup right this way: Cover Letter Heading: Templates, Rules, and 4+ Sample Headers

3. Open Using a Simple Salutation as a Greeting

Dear Jennifer:

The cover letter salutation sounds even easier than the heading, doesn’t it?

Not so fast.

There are a lot of nuances to be considered here.

Who to address a cover letter to?

Find the name of the hiring manager or recruiter, because science says people are more receptive to the sound of their own names.
Locate their names by searching LinkedIn, checking the job ad, or looking at the company’s about page online.
If those fail, give them a call!

First name or last?

If applying to a more traditional role, such as at a law firm or at a university, go with their title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Mrs., Dr.) and their last name to be on the safe side. Otherwise, using their first name is a great way to grab the reader’s attention.

How to address a cover letter with no name?

If you tried everything and can’t find the hiring manager’s name, go with “Dear hiring manager.” Replace “hiring manager” with a job title (e.g., “IT director,” “HR manager”) if you at least have that information.

If you aren’t happy with these options, go ahead and skip the salutation, jumping straight to the first paragraph. That’s much better than the universally despised “Dear sir or madam.”

Comma, semicolon, or colon?

Finally, use a colon (:) rather than a comma after your cover letter greeting. Save the commas for less-formal letters to your grandparents.

Pro Tip: How to address a cover letter to two or more people? Separate each name as you would any comma-separated list (e.g., “Dear Jessica, John, and Jill:”). However, go in descending order by job title, listing the person who is highest in company rank first.

Got further questions on addressing a cover letter correctly? Have a look at our cover letter guidelines here: How to Address a Cover Letter: Sample & Guide [20+ Examples]

4. Start by Introducing Yourself and Stating the Position You’re Applying For

The opening of a cover letter sets the tone for what follows.

Bore them at your own peril.

Intrigue them, and they’ll be dying to read more.

How to write a cover letter opening paragraph that’ll keep you in the running?

Here’s how to make a cover letter intro:

It must introduce you to them as a candidate.
It needs to officially identify the position to which you’re applying.
It should give a quick overview of your professional background, skills, and experience.
It has to be relevant to the company and the particular position.

Let’s look at a sample customer service representative cover letter introduction:

I just happened across the opening for the customer service representative position at Swerve Media Group, and I’m excited at the chance to apply for the position. As a CSR for The Bright Agency for over two years, I’ve become well-versed in resolving conflict, assisting clients, and promoting upsells. I’m certain I have the patience, attentiveness, and personable nature needed to be a stellar customer service rep at Swerve.

As you can see, writing a cover letter is not rocket science.

This cover letter beginning is basic but it will deliver—it ticks all the boxes I mentioned above.

Pro Tip: Cut any unnecessary or irrelevant sentences from your cover letter, whether it’s in your intro or later on. A cover letter should be brief and to the point. Save the hiring manager time while saving yourself time, and save some space while you’re at it.

Need more ideas for how to write a good cover letter introduction paragraph? There are a few effective hacks and strategies. You can get a bit creative, use enthusiasm, or name drop someone who referred you to this job. Check out our complete “beginners” tutorial here: How to Start a Cover Letter: 25+ Introduction Examples & Ways to Open

5. Explain How the Company Benefits by Adding You to the Team

You’re applying for a job, and the hiring manager’s job is to assess how well you’d fit.

In the second paragraph, it’s time to show them you’re the best candidate they could possibly consider.

Refer to the job description.

The employment offer’s job requirements section tells you exactly the applicant they’re looking for.

Let them know their search is over.

Here’s a sample cover letter second paragraph continuing with our CSR job:

According to the job description I found on Indeed, you’re searching for a customer service representative with knowledge of the Salesforce customer relationship management software and who is able to resolve disputes and inquiries professionally. As a customer service representative at The Bright Agency, I used Salesforce on a daily basis, going even further to help train new colleagues on the CRM software. Furthermore, I had the highest client satisfaction rating (97.9%) based on closed cases. I am confident I could bring the same level of attentiveness and initiative to Swerve Media Group as the new CSR.

See how effective that is?

In this middle paragraph, we reiterate a few of the key qualifications they’re looking for according to the job ad. Then, we show them how we meet and exceed their expectations.

Let’s check out one more, this time using a slightly different format:

According to the job ad for the marketing position from LinkedIn, you’re searching for a digital marketer with a wide breadth of expertise in managing campaigns, social media marketing, content strategy, and SEO. At my last position at Smart Marketing Ventures, I had quite a few wins I’m proud of, including:

Increased website traffic on last 10 client websites by an average of 125% through combination of social media strategy and content marketing initiatives.
Improved year-over-year revenue for 5 online retailers by 30% on average, accounting for more than $57,000 in increased profit overall.
Boosted returning readers and customers by 23% through new marketing campaigns.

As you can see, I take my work seriously and care completely about the results I deliver on behalf of my company. Were you to hire me at The Jonas Agency, I would bring that same drive and commitment with me each and every day.

That one’s a bit longer, but it’s super impressive.

Use this bullet point style when you have multiple achievements with numbers to allow them to stand out and be readily seen. Great for jobs like sales, IT, or teaching, for example.

Write a cover letter like you would a marketing email. So instead of starting with, ‘I’m writing this letter to show my interest for the marketing job you have advertised,’ start it with something like this – ‘Looking for more leads? In my role at Google, I helped generate over 327 leads this year with an ROI of 217%.’ By giving a benefit of having you in the company with a concrete example of your success, you’ll captivate the reader and increase your likelihood of a response. Matt Dodgson Founder of Market Recruitment

Pro Tip: Don’t echo your resume. A great cover letter should complement your resume rather than repeat its contents. A great use of a cover letter is also to explain any employment gaps which may be blatantly obvious on your resume.

Are you writing a cover letter in an email? Slightly different rules apply. Make sure you play by these: Email Cover Letter: Sample, Proper Email Format, 20+ Tips

6. Show You’re Interested in Them Rather Than Any General Company

Don’t simply tell them how you’ll make their lives better.

Explain to them that they’re perfect for you , as well.

Of course the company needs to know that you have the job skills, work experience, and professional background they’re seeking. However, they also want to hire someone who’ll enjoy coming to work for them and who’ll be a great fit on the team.

There are several ways to go about this:

Show love for the company, its products, or its history:

I’ve been a fan of Samsung products from my very first flip phone back when I was a teenager. Admittedly, part of that fond hindsight may be due to the fact that it helped me contact my high school crush on the weekends. However, I have been a Samsung devotee ever since, and I’m currently married to the Note 10 and engaged to that same high school crush (so thanks, Samsung!). I would be incredibly fortunate to be considered for the position at a company I’ve admired for more than a decade.

Display enthusiasm for the work you’ll be involved in:

My grandmother immigrated to New York from Bologna almost 50 years ago, and I used to enjoy helping her prepare dishes from her native Emilia-Romagna region when I was a little boy. The love of Italian food, particularly the flavors of this area, hasn’t left me. I’d be thrilled to be considered for the chef position at such a fabulous restaurant, especially one that keeps the tastes and smells of my grandmother’s kitchen alive as authentically as you do.

Demonstrate your willingness and readiness to take on their challenges:

Given the recent investment into your company by Angel Partners—congratulations, by the way!—your company has now allocated a large portion of it to your content marketing efforts. I happen to thrive under pressure and with tight deadlines, and I always make sure the quality of my work is never sacrificed for quantity. If you consider me for the copywriting position, I’m certain I would bring the same balance of high-quality writing and quick turnaround time you’re looking for.

What did you think of these three cover letter examples?

As you can see, there’s no one right way to go about it. Use creativity, bits of humor, even exclamation marks to believably highlight your enthusiasm.

The key thing here is to show them you’re interested in more than the money they’re offering, and you’ll be fine.

7. Make Your Offer by Crafting a Powerful Closing Statement

You’re almost there—

Time to wrap it up with a powerful and compelling cover letter closing paragraph.

How to end a cover letter effectively?

In the last paragraph of a cover letter, invite them to discuss further, request a meeting, and promise them all this greatness you’ve exemplified is just the tip of the iceberg.

Here is a simple cover letter closing example:

Would you have time for a quick phone call or meeting? I’d love to demonstrate how I could bring similar results (the 35% decrease in overhead) to your company.

That’s what you call “ending on a high note!”

Pro Tip: There are two important things to keep in mind when ending a cover letter. Don’t come off needy (no begging!), and skip that tired phrase “thanks for your time and consideration” or any variation like it.

The cover letter ending paragraph is just a sentence or two, but it can make or break your job application. Don’t let that happen: How to End a Cover Letter [20+ Examples of Great Closing Paragraphs]

8. Sign Off With a Complimentary Close and Your Name

Signing off on a cover letter is super straightforward and simple.

Here’s what it looks like:

Jessica Paris

Easy peasy.

“Sincerely” is the most standard complimentary close (also known as a valediction ), but feel free to use other formal or semi-formal options, as well. “Regards,” “Yours Truly,” or “Thank You” work just fine, too.

Avoid anything too informal, such as “Peace,” “Cheers,” or “TTYL.” Just as you start a cover letter formally, end the cover letter formally, also.

Pro Tip: If you’re handing in a physical copy of your cover letter, leave a few extra spaces between the complimentary closing and your name. Then, add a handwritten signature between for a stylish and professional flourish. If you know how, you can also include your digital signature for some bonus points.

9. Add a Postscript for One More Shot at Calling Their Attention to Your Offer

Thought you were done?

While you could end a cover letter here, there’s one nifty little trick that works wonders.

The postscript.

A postscript is meant to be used as a sort of written afterthought. However, you can use the P.S. statement on a cover letter to get one more word in edgewise.

You could use it to reiterate your value statement, like this:

P.S. I was instrumental in raising NPS scores by 30%, and I’d be happy to give you my plan for how I’d implement a similar overhaul at your company, as well.

Or, you could use it to show some early company spirit:

P.S. I know it’s early and I don’t want to be presumptuous. However, I found myself already trying on some black and gold outfits in anticipation!

Or, get them excited about meeting you:

P.S. By the way, I saw on the company’s about page that you enjoy pastries and good coffee. What would you think about meeting at Daily Provisions? They’ve got amazing donuts and the best espresso to wash it all down!

The sky’s the limit!

7+ Cover Letter Tips & How NOT to Write a Cover Letter

Here are cover letter tips and advice to smooth down the edges:

1. Don’t Write a Generic Cover Letter

If there’s only one thing you’ll remember from this guide, it should be this—

Always tailor your cover letter to one specific company and one particular job position.

Hiring managers can tell immediately if you created one generic cover letter and sent it all over the tri-state area. They throw those out.

If you want to save time, consider making a “master” cover letter. Using this, you can just do a few minor modifications prior to sending each cover letter and resume out.

Saves time while still feeling targeted!

If you want to learn how to write an all-purpose cover letter and get a few more master cover letter examples, check out this guide: General Cover Letter that Isn’t Generic

2. Be Professional in Your Contact Details

When adding an email address, don’t use your old high school handle ( str8ballin69@… ). Use a respected email service such as Gmail, rather than one that makes you look ancient (sorry, AOL). Also, it’s disrespectful to use your current company’s email address as your contact email, so just don’t.

Finally, fix your LinkedIn URL . Many people keep the one that’s given to them, such as linkedin.com/in/john-smith-58914z7b . Take 30 seconds, go into your settings, and adjust the URL to just your name or something that represents you professionally.

3. Don’t Make the Cover Letter All About You

The application letter is meant to inform them just how well you match the company’s needs.

However, don’t make it all “I’m looking for such-and-such” or “I have this skill and that ability.”

Rather, say those things while bringing each around to the company’s point of view. If you have communication skills, explain to them how your ability to communicate effectively would benefit them.

4. Show Personality

The resume you wrote probably included fragmented sentences and nothing but fact after monotonous fact.

Let loose a bit on your cover letter to exhibit your human side. Don’t be afraid to tell an (appropriate) joke or let your passion shine through.

The cover letter is where you have the opportunity to showcase your personality a bit. Take a look at the company’s webpage and social media and mimic their style and culture. Always be authentic and yourself, but if you feel that there is a synergy to your personality and the organization’s philosophy or ethos, then the cover letter is where you can begin to illustrate that! Roy Munk President, GHS Recruiting

5. Use Keywords

Many organizations, particularly larger ones, use an ATS (applicant tracking system) to help them sort through and manage all the resumes and cover letters they get each day.

The ATS also has the added role of locating particular keywords and phrases the HR manager or recruiter searches for. The ATS then scores each resume and cover letter based on how well they match the job description.

If you’re a poor match, no interview.

So, look through the job description to identify the particular skills and experience they want. Work those keywords into your cover letter and resume for a job application sure to get a callback.

6. Refrain from Buzzwords and Jargon

You might know what it means.

And your potential future supervisor may understand it.

However, industry buzzwords and jargon often get lost in translation somewhere in the middle. Hiring managers often know just the basics about your particular role, since they recruit for multiple positions. Specific lingo from your niche will confuse them or mean nothing, at the very least.

7. Proofread

It sounds obvious, but this doesn’t stop a sizable portion of cover letters and resumes from having typos, dating errors, and other mistakes.

Use a spell checker and grammar checker such as Grammarly to be safe. Then, give it to a friend or family member for another once-over just in case.

It would be a shame to be super qualified but dismissed from the running for such a stupid oversight!

8. Prepare for the Interview!

By now, you know how to write a cover letter for a job application sure to get a reply and an interview offer.

There’s no time to waste—

Read our guide on how to prepare for an interview , prepare yourself for the common questions they’ll ask you , and learn what to bring to your meeting .

There are plenty more cover letter tips and advice to heed and to help ensure you get that job offer or interview. Take a gander at this one: 35+ Successful Cover Letter Tips, Advice & Guidelines

Specific Cover Letter Examples: Guides on Writing Cover Letters for Particular Jobs

This was a general guide on how to make a cover letter for any job.

One of the most important rules is to tailor your cover letter to one particular job. With that in mind, here are cover letter guides for specific trades and occupations:

Accounting & Finance

Accounting Cover Letter

Bank Teller Cover Letter

Business Analyst Cover Letter

Finance Cover Letter

Financial Analyst Cover Letter

Investment Banking Cover Letter

Creative & Cultural Fields

Acting Cover Letter

Graphic Design Cover Letter

Journalism Cover Letter

Education & Learning

Academic Cover Letter

Elementary Teacher Cover Letter

Graduate School Cover Letter

Internship Cover Letter

Librarian Cover Letter

Recent Graduate Cover Letter

Research Assistant Cover Letter

School Counselor Cover Letter

Substitute Teacher Cover Letter

Teacher Cover Letter

Teaching Assistant Cover Letter

Engineering & Scientific

Data Analyst Cover Letter

Engineering Cover Letter

Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter

Food Service & Hospitality

Flight Attendant Cover Letter

Restaurant Manager Cover Letter

Server Cover Letter

Information Technology (IT)

Computer Science Cover Letter

IT Cover Letter

IT Technician Cover Letter

Software Engineer Cover Letter

Web Developer Cover Letter

Legal, Law Enforcement & Emergency Services

Legal Cover Letter

Paralegal Cover Letter

Management & Leadership

Business Cover Letter

Human Resources Cover Letter

HR Generalist Cover Letter

Project Manager Cover Letter

Manager Cover Letter

Medicine, Healthcare & Wellbeing

CNA Cover Letter

Dental Assistant Cover Letter

Esthetician Cover Letter

Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Medical Scribe Cover Letter

Nursing Cover Letter

Pharmacist Cover Letter

Physician Assistant Cover Letter

Physical Therapy Cover Letter

RN Cover Letter

Office & Administrative

Accounts Payable Cover Letter

Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Data Entry Cover Letter

Executive Assistant Cover Letter

Front Desk Cover Letter

Medical Receptionist Cover Letter

Office Assistant Cover Letter

Office Manager Cover Letter

Personal Assistant Cover Letter

Receptionist Cover Letter

Secretary Cover Letter

Real Estate & Construction

Architecture Cover Letter

Retail & Customer Service

Call Center Cover Letter

Cashier Cover Letter

Customer Service Cover Letter

Retail Cover Letter

Sales & Marketing

Consulting Cover Letter

Marketing Cover Letter

Marketing Manager Cover Letter

Sales Cover Letter

Sales Associate Cover Letter

Sales Representative Cover Letter

Career Change Cover Letter

Entry-Level Cover Letter

Relocation Cover Letter

Is the specific job title you’re looking for not listed above? We are constantly adding more cover letter examples and guides. Learn how to write a good cover letter for a specific industry here: Cover Letter Examples for Every Profession

Key Takeaway

Writing a cover letter always sounds like a bore and a pain.

Hopefully you now see that it’s not so difficult to write a cover letter that’ll score you an interview after all.

Let’s go over the general rules once again.

Here’s how to write a cover letter:

Format the cover letter template first.
Create a cover letter heading in a formal style.
Use the hiring manager’s name in the cover letter greeting.
Introduce yourself with a captivating opening statement.
Identify how the company benefits by taking you on board.
Show them you’re interested in more than the money.
End the cover letter with a powerful call to action.
Sign off professionally with a complimentary close and signature.
Consider an optional postscript to grab their attention once more.

There you have it! If you’ve got any additional questions on how to write a cover letter for a resume, we’d be happy to answer them below in the comment area. Thanks for reading!

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