how to write a cover letter for lpn resume

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LPN Cover Letter Sample and Writing Guidelines

LPN Cover Letter is used to apply for the job against any opening for the position of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The cover letter acts as an introduction to the job advertisement acknowledged by the candidate. The cover letter highlights the professional competencies of the candidate and reveals his/her interest in the job. Good presentation skill is very important for the professional activity. The first step to ensure a good impression on the employer is to make an excellent job application, especially the cover letter. As the cover letter is the introduction to the job application, a good start can make things work more smoothly.

A Cover Letter for Licensed Practical Nurse Should display following essential qualities:

• Caring personality and Bedside manners
• Nursing expertise and clinical skills
• Good communication skills
• Team Player
• Decision-making skill
• Adhering to health and safety standards
• Resilience and Stamina

Guidelines for Writing the LPN Cover Letter

1. Get in touch with the Right contact Person

Healthcare industry is managed by several people sitting at several designations. So, it is advisable to send your cover letter to the right person.

2. Use Proper Format of the Cover Letter

The cover letter should furnish all details as per the Job requirement. Customize your cover letter so that it makes a good impression on the employer. There are multiple ways to write a cover letter but some common layout is as follows:

• Introduction Paragraph: Start your cover letter with an impressive introduction. It will show your willingness and interest in the job position.
• Second Paragraph: Highlight your skills and previous experience (if any). You can also mention your achievement at your previous organization that can add value to the company. Use a proper set of keywords from the job description and relate your past experience with the job requirements.
• Concluding Paragraph: Reassure the employer that you are the best fit for the job. Schedule a face to face interview or a callback. Provide your contact number and e-mail id for further proceedings. Visit here for Interview tips and suggestions .

3. Avoid Making Any Grammatical or Spelling Mistakes

Try to make your cover letter straight and simple. Check your cover letter for any spelling mistakes and rectify it as soon as you find any. The cover letter must be error free.

4. Cover Letter Must be Concise and To the Point

Develop a convincing cover letter so that it interests the hiring manager.

5. Optimise Your cover Letter with Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Software

This software is designed to scrutinize your cover letter in terms of correct phrases and keywords. It has been witnessed that majority of vacancies are filled through ATS.

A fresher or newly graduated LPN needs to showcase exemplary skills and traits in their cover letter. We have provided some LPN cover letter templates below that will help you with job hunting and successful application.

Sample 1: LPN Cover Letter For New Grad With No Experience

This sample cover letter is for the individual with no experience. The individual has just graduated from Parkland Community College and looking for an LPN job. He has got Associate's Degree in Nursing. He has knowledge of nursing fundamentals along with clinical experience from the coursework.

Your Address Phone number: Email: [email protected]

September 08, 2017

Mr. ABC Manager Human Resources Employer Address

Dear Mr. ABC,

I am writing to apply for the position of Licensed Practical Nurse at New Hospital. I have graduated from Parkland College with an associate's degree in nursing. I have learned nursing fundamentals and received intensive clinical experience in my coursework. I am a self-motivated individual with keen interest in nursing. I am willing to put my energy in the compassionate field of nursing.

I have cleared the state boards and certified to pursue a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse. I have excellent communication skills in both oral and written formats. I possess good clinical as well as non-clinical skills that will help the patients to recover at a faster pace. I hold knowledge of medication dispensing and patient care. I would love to bring the skills and passion to work for New Hospital.

I hope you find my skills matching to your requirements. Please don't hesitate to contact me over call or email to schedule interview at a convenient time for both of us. Thank you for reviewing my application. I look forward to meeting you soon.

Sincerely, (Signature) Your Name

Sample 2: LPN Cover Letter For Experienced Candidate

This sample cover Letter is for the individual with experience in nursing. The individual applying for the LPN job has come across a vacant LPN job position at ABC Healthcare Management. He has got an Associate's Degree in nursing and a Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification along with one year of relevant experience.

Your Name, Current Designation Your Address Phone Number Email: [email protected]

September 8, 2017

Danish Thomas Managing Director ABC Healthcare Management Employer Address

Re: Licensed Practical Nurse (Job # xxxx)

Dear Mr. Danish Thomas,

I am pleased to apply for the position of Licensed Practical Nurse at ABC Healthcare Management. With my active LPN licensure, one year of experience and a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, I am confident about my ability to add advantage to the organization.

Understanding your requirements and the candidature you are seeking for the LPN position, here are the facet of my experience that will prove to be relevant to your needs:

• Well-versed in managing labs and work areas along with stocking, cleaning, maintaining clinical equipment, and ordering supplies
• Experience in preparing patients for diagnosis and keeping records of the relevant health information
• Proficient in performing trep test, laboratory procedures following infection control guidelines and standard precautions
• Good at assisting Registered Nurses and physicians in surgeries such as EMG, cautery, allergies scratch testing, colposcopy, and pelvic exams

Along with the clinical skills, I have good communication skills and interpersonal skills. I like to work in teams and work effectively with all age groups. I have the ability to be friendly and compassionate with families, patients, and government regulators. My enclosed resume will provide you more information about my education and experience.

I would love to discuss more in a Face-to-face interview. You may contact me through phone or email. As a passionate Licensed Practical Nurse, I believe that my skills and knowledge would add great value to the organisation.

Sincerely, (Signature) Your Name Enc. Resume and Recommendation Letter

Sample 3: LPN Cover Letter Against Unadvertised Opening

This cover letter is used by an experienced LPN who has worked in a skilled nursing facility. He is seeking employment at a hospital. He has got Associate's degree and state licensure along with multiple certifications.

Dear HR Director:

I am a Licensed Practical Nurse practicing in the State of Alabama. I have been working for 4 years with elderly patients at ABC nursing facility. I have an Associate’s degree in Nursing from XYZ Vocational college and carry certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Basic Life Support (BLS). I have a great passion for working with patients of all age group. I would be a great asset to your nursing facility.

I have gained extensive clinical skills while working at the ABC nursing facility. My experience includes updating patient's electronic health record, taking vital signs, documenting medications. I performed my daily tasks such as cleaning and maintaining clinical apparatus, preparing exam rooms and lab areas efficiently. I have been assisting several doctors with regular procedures and surgeries like EMGs, pelvic exams, allergy shots, colonoscopies, and endoscopies. I am skilled to perform lab procedures such as collection of specimens, strep tests, and wound cultures. I have enrolled myself in continuing education courses to keep myself updated and enhance my nursing skills.

I would be pleased if you review my application and resume and consider my qualification for the position of LPN. I will be happy join a telephonic interview prior to the face to face personal Interview. I can be reached at the cell number xxx-xxx-xxxx or through email. I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely, (signature) Name

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Professional LPN Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your LPN cover letter must swiftly highlight your nursing qualifications and experience. Show your dedication to patient care and your proficiency in a fast-paced healthcare setting. Bring your personality to the forefront and let your passion for the nursing field shine through. Illustrate how you'll be an asset to the healthcare team with specific examples of past achievements.

Cover Letter Guide

LPN Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience LPN Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

As you dive into the job market as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), crafting the perfect cover letter can seem daunting. You've likely realized it's a requirement that complements your resume, but it's not as simple as rehashing your job history. Your cover letter should weave a compelling narrative around your proudest professional moment, all while staying concise and avoiding worn-out phrases. Remember, this one-page introduction is your chance to truly shine in the eyes of potential employers.

• Personalize the greeting to address the recruiter and your introduction that fits the role;
• Follow good examples for individual roles and industries from job-winning cover letters;
• Decide on your most noteworthy achievement to stand out;
• Format, download, and submit your lpn cover letter, following the best HR practices.

Use the power of Enhancv's AI: drag and drop your lpn resume, which will swiftly be converted into your job-winning cover letter.

If the lpn isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

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LPN cover letter example

Amelia Miller

San Diego, California

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Emphasizing relevant experience with a specific project, such as leading a medical service delivery model overhaul, showcases the applicant's capability in handling significant responsibilities within managed care.
• Highlighting measurable achievements, like the reduction of patient inpatient stays and the cutting of annual healthcare costs, provides concrete evidence of the candidate's impact on quality improvement and cost management.
• Expressing a proactive approach to negotiating with external service providers demonstrates the applicant's ability to balance clinical and fiscal aspects of healthcare, which is crucial in managed care environments.
• Incorporating the readiness to engage in discussions about contributing to the team indicates the candidate's collaborative attitude and aligns with healthcare environments that value teamwork and patient-centered solutions.

Five tips on formatting your lpn cover letter

Do you want to make a good impression on recruiters and, at the same time, follow the best industry advice on writing your lpn cover letter?

Make sure to include the following:

• Header and Salutation;
• Introductory paragraph;
• Body paragraph;
• Closing paragraph;
• Signature (this one is up to you).

Remember to use the same modern, simple font for your lpn cover letter as you did for your resume (e.g. Lato, Rubik, etc.)

Ensure your lpn cover letter is single-spaced and is wrapped around a one-inch margin, like in our cover letter templates .

Once completed, use our cover letter builder to export your lpn cover letter in the best format to keep your information intact - PDF.

At the end of the day, your lpn cover letter won't be assessed by the Applicant Tracker System (ATS) software, but by the recruiters. Your information should thus be legible, organized, and follow a structured logic.

The top sections on a lpn cover letter

• Header: Include your name, address, contact information, and date, which is important for the recruiter to know how to get in touch with you and to identify your application quickly.
• Greeting: Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name if possible, as it shows you have taken the time to personalize your cover letter and are genuinely interested in the position.
• Introduction: Clearly state the LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) position you are applying for and your current licensing status, which immediately informs the recruiter of your qualifications and the relevance of your application.
• Professional Experience: Highlight your clinical skills, any specialized areas of expertise, and patient care experience, which demonstrate your aptitude for the LPN role and show you can hit the ground running.
• Closing: Reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute as an LPN, thank the reader for their consideration, and include a call-to-action, such as the hope for an interview, which leaves the conversation open and indicates your proactive approach.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Clinical competence and technical skills: Demonstrates the ability to perform nursing tasks such as administering medication, wound care, and taking vital signs efficiently.
• Attention to detail: Shows meticulousness in monitoring patients, maintaining accurate records, and following healthcare protocols, reducing the potential for errors.
• Compassion and patient-centered care: Highlights the capacity for empathy and providing comfort to patients often dealing with stressful health situations.
• Effective communication: Illustrates the ability to clearly convey information to patients, families, and the healthcare team, contributing to better patient outcomes.
• Adaptability and flexibility: Reflects the willingness to adjust to varying patient needs, work schedules, and unexpected situations common in healthcare settings.
• Teamwork and collaboration: Emphasizes the ability to work cohesively with healthcare professionals, including registered nurses and doctors, to provide comprehensive care and support.

How to start your lpn cover letter: with a greeting, of course

Have you ever considered just how powerful a personalized salutation can be?

We sure have news for you! Your lpn cover letter should start with the right salutation to recruiters, nurturing a sense of respect and individuality.

Greet recruiters by using their first name (e.g. "Dear Tom" or "Dear Patricia") if you've previously established contact with them.

Otherwise, opt out for the less familiar, "Dear Ms. Peaches" or "Dear Ms Kelsey", if you've found the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or a corporate website.

"To whom it may concern" is never a good option, as it creates a sense that you've been sending out your lpn cover letter to anyone. Instead, use "Dear HR team" or "Dear (company name) recruiter" for a feeling of exclusivity.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Specific Job Title] Manager,
• Dear [Recipient's Full Name],
• Dear [Department] Team,
• Dear [Company Name] Recruiter,
• Dear [Recipient's Professional Title] [Recipient's Last Name],

What to include in those first two sentences, or your lpn cover letter introduction

Have you ever wondered what the best way is to present your profile in the lpn cover letter introduction ?

There's no right or wrong answer if you're being concise and authentic to yourself.

Some professionals start their lpn cover letter by:

• congratulating the company - focusing on something impressive, whether that's an award, an industry-leading project, or a key event;
• aligning their passion for the field or industry with the job - if you're enthusiastic about what you do, you'd thus grow your skill set and value as a professional.

Choosing your best achievement for the middle or body of your lpn cover letter

Now that you have the recruiters' attention, it's time to write the chunkiest bit of your lpn cover letter .

The body consists of three to six paragraphs that focus on one of your achievements.

Use your past success to tell a story of how you obtained your most job-crucial skills and know-how (make sure to back these up with tangible metrics).

Another excellent idea for your lpn cover letter's middle paragraphs is to shine a light on your unique professional value.

Write consistently and make sure to present information that is relevant to the role.

Two ideas on how to end the final paragraph of your lpn cover letter

Closing your lpn cover letter , you want to leave a memorable impression on recruiters, that you're a responsible professional.

End your cover letter with how you envision your growth, as part of the company. Make realistic promises on what you plan to achieve, potentially, in the next six months to a year.

Before your signature, you could also signal hiring managers that you're available for the next steps. Or, a follow-up call, during which you could further clarify your experience or professional value.

What could you write about in your lpn cover letter when you have no experience

Candidates with zero professional experience often struggle to write their lpn cover letter .

You may lack experience, but your application could still be impressive when you focus on your strengths.

Consider your most relevant talents (and/or one achievement) that align with the role and help you stand out.

Perhaps you spent every summer volunteering at your local dog pound - think of the job-relevant skills this experience taught you.

Sharing your tangible career goals is another good strategy to stand out.

Key takeaways

Summarizing the most important aspects in writing your lpn cover letter, remember to:

• Create a personalized lpn cover letter for each role you apply for, that includes the recruiter's name in the salutation;
• Format your lpn cover letter with single-spacing, one-inch margins, and a modern, yet ATS-friendly font;
• Always start off your lpn cover letter with two sentences that reflect what is most important about your application;
• Your lpn cover letter body should feature your biggest accomplishments and the job-relevant skills it has taught you;
• Instead of opting for the "Sincerely yours" ending, close your lpn cover letter with a nod to the future with what you aim to achieve in this potential role.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
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How to write an LPN cover letter

A cover letter for an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) is a formal letter that accompanies a job application when applying for a position as an LPN. It is typically addressed to the hiring manager or the person responsible for hiring LPNs in a healthcare facility or organization. The purpose of the LPN cover letter is to introduce yourself, highlight your qualifications and skills, and express your interest in the specific LPN position you are seeking.

Tips for writing an LPN cover letter

Here are some tips for writing an LPN cover letter;

• Research the employer: Take the time to learn about the healthcare facility or organization you're applying to. Understand their values, mission, and any specific requirements they may have for LPNs. Add this information to your cover letter to showcase your genuine interest and alignment with your goals.
• Start with a strong opening: Grab the reader's attention from the beginning by stating the position you're applying for and expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Consider mentioning how you learned about the job opening or any connections you may have with the organization.
• Showcase your relevant qualifications: Highlight your LPN education, training, certifications, and any specialized skills you possess. Draw attention to experiences that directly relate to the responsibilities of an LPN, such as administering medication, wound care, or providing compassionate patient care.
• Provide specific examples: Instead of simply listing your skills and qualifications, provide concrete examples of how you have successfully applied them in previous roles. For instance, mention situations where you effectively collaborated with a healthcare team, resolved conflicts, or improved patient outcomes.
• Demonstrate your passion for patient care: LPNs play a vital role in patient care, so emphasize your dedication to providing compassionate, high-quality healthcare. Discuss your commitment to patient advocacy, empathy, and the ability to create a supportive and comfortable environment for patients.
• Highlight your interpersonal skills: Effective communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for an LPN. Illustrate your ability to build rapport with patients, families, and colleagues. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated complex medical information or addressed the concerns of patients and their families.
• Address any employment gaps or career changes: If you have any employment gaps or a non-traditional career path, briefly explain the reasons and highlight any relevant experiences or skills gained during those periods. Focus on how these experiences have prepared you for the LPN role.
• Optimize your letter to the job specification: Analyze the job description and identify the specific qualifications and requirements sought by the employer. Align your skills and experiences with those mentioned in the description, using similar keywords and phrases to demonstrate your fit for the role.
• Keep it brief and professional: Aim for a well-structured, one-page cover letter that concisely presents your qualifications and experiences. Use a formal tone throughout and check carefully for grammar and spelling errors.
• Request an interview: Conclude your cover letter by expressing your gratitude for the opportunity to apply and your interest in further discussing how you can contribute to the healthcare team. Request an interview or express your availability for a conversation to demonstrate your eagerness to move forward in the hiring process.

Things to consider when preparing an LPN cover letter

When preparing an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) cover letter, there are several things to consider;

• Research the Employer: Take the time to research the healthcare facility or organization you're applying to. Understand their mission, values, and any specific requirements they may have for LPNs. It will help you tailor your cover letter to their needs and display your interest in working with them.
• Read the Job Description: Carefully review the LPN job description provided by the employer. Take note of the required qualifications, skills, and responsibilities. Use this information to highlight your relevant experience and align your qualifications with their needs.
• Address the Hiring Manager: Whenever possible, address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or the person responsible for hiring LPNs. You can use a standard salutation like "Dear Employer"
• Describe yourself: Start your cover letter by describing yourself and mentioning the position you're seeking. Briefly mention your relevant experience, education, and any certifications or licenses you hold.
• Highlight Your Qualifications: Emphasize the qualifications and skills that make you a strong candidate for the LPN position. Discuss your clinical experience, knowledge of medical procedures, patient care skills, and any specialized areas of expertise. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have successfully applied these skills in previous roles.
• Showcase Your Soft Skills: LPNs require excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Highlight these soft skills in your cover letter, explaining how you have effectively interacted with patients, families, and colleagues to provide high-quality care.
• Express Your Passion for Patient Care: LPNs play a crucial role in patient care, so convey your genuine passion for helping others. Discuss your commitment to providing compassionate, empathetic, and patient-centered care. Highlight any experiences or stories that demonstrate your dedication to improving the well-being of patients.
• Customize Your Letter: Tailor your cover letter for each specific job application. Use keywords and phrases from the job description to showcase your relevant qualifications and ensure that your letter resonates with the employer.
• Keep it Concise and Well-Structured: Aim for a one-page cover letter that is easy to read and well-organized. Use clear and concise paragraphs, bullet points (if appropriate), and a professional tone throughout. Avoid long, dense blocks of text.
• Proofread Carefully: Review your cover letter for any grammatical or spelling errors. Carefully proofread the content to ensure it is clear, coherent, and error-free.
• Follow Formal Business Letter Format: Use a standard business letter format, including your contact information, the date, a professional salutation, well-structured paragraphs, a polite closing, and your typed name. Leave space for your handwritten signature.
• End with a Strong Closing: Conclude your cover letter by expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to join the healthcare team and contribute to patient care. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration and express your interest in further discussing your qualifications in an interview.

Other resources on Licensed practical nurse,  how to write an LPN resume ,  how to become an LPN ,  LPN resume sample ,  LPN skills for resume and cover letter

Licensed Practical Nurse Tried and tested resume example for your next job in 2024. Get a jump-start, by editing this Licensed Practical Nurse resume example. Just update this example with your details, download and launch your career to new heights today!

Licensed Practical Nurse Cover Letter Example

Dear Employer,

Upon discovering your job posting for an LPN position at Rancho Nursing Care, I promptly submitted my resume for your consideration. As a passionate nursing professional with experience in providing direct and indirect care to a diverse range of patients, I am confident that I would make a valuable addition to your team.

With a Licensed Practical Nurse Diploma and over four years of experience supporting RNs and CNAs in various patient support tasks, I am eager to embrace new challenges and establish a long-term commitment to Rancho Nursing. My background in both home- and facility-based patient care has equipped me with the necessary skills to excel in the role of an LPN. Here are some core highlights of my accomplishments;

• Demonstrated proficiency in medication administration, vital signs monitoring, patient condition assessment, wound and trach care, catheter placement, patient data documentation, and assisting with daily living activities.
• Effective and efficient communication with doctors, colleagues, patients, and families to assess needs, determine suitable treatments, and achieve desired outcomes.
• Strong leadership abilities, exceptional time management, and organizational skills.
• A warm, friendly, and articulate communication style that fosters trust and establishes positive relationships with patients and peers.

My unwavering dedication to the nursing field, combined with my compassionate and professional approach, defines my capabilities. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to meet with you and discuss how my skills can contribute to your team's objectives and fulfill your needs.

Julie Cruise

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How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter

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• How to Write a Cover Letter
• Mistakes to Avoid
• Cover Letter Tips
• Frequently Asked Questions

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Sample nursing cover letter, are you ready to earn your online nursing degree.

A nursing cover letter is still crucial in the job application process. It’s often the first impression a potential employer will have of you. A cover letter is a chance to tell your story and call attention to aspects of your resume you want a reviewer to notice.

It’s also a chance to explain to an employer why you want to work for them, what you know about them, and why you’re an ideal candidate. A strong cover letter can tip the balance in your favor, helping you stand out from the competition and land an interview.

In the following guide, we walk you through writing a strong nursing cover letter, mistakes to avoid, and real-world tips that will keep you focused. Check out our downloadable nursing cover letter template and a sample letter to get started. Once you master the process, you’ll be writing winning cover letters in no time.

4 Steps to Write Your Nursing Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter can feel overwhelming for many nurses, especially because it’s difficult to know what to say, how much to reiterate what’s on your resume , and what information to include or not. A cover letter is an opportunity to explain aspects of your professional or personal history that a resume can’t always get across. Your passion and interests come through, along with your ability to communicate clearly. Review the following steps to write a stand-out cover letter. Feel free to use our sample letter and downloadable template. The cover letter is a significant part of convincing employers that they absolutely need to meet you!

Create a Header with Your Contact Information

Introduce yourself and note the position you’re applying for in the opening paragraph, highlight your skills and the reasons you want to work for this employer, write a closing paragraph and restate your interest, 7 mistakes to avoid in your nursing cover letter.

• Submitting Spelling and Grammar Errors: Nursing requires excellent documentation and attention to detail. Grammatical errors are unprofessional, and they can paint a picture of someone who doesn’t value attention to detail. Many resume reviewers will likely pass on a candidate whose resume and/or cover letter contain errors.
• Copying Your Resume: Your nursing cover letter can highlight aspects of your resume , but it shouldn’t be a verbatim copy. Find creative ways to underscore your key characteristics, skills, or experiences without repetition.
• Using Incorrect or Inconsistent Format: It’s best practice for your cover letter and resume to match in terms of design, font, and format. This creates a branded, visually cohesive application package.
• Forgetting to Tie Your Qualifications to the Position: Your cover letter should be targeted and specific, addressing the position you’re applying for and its qualifications, skills, and responsibilities. If you don’t tie your qualifications to the job in question, that makes a weak case for you getting an interview.
• Failing to Address the Letter to a Specific Person or Department: Many postings fail to provide the name of an individual or a department to address in your letter. If they provide this information, use it. If they don’t, you can use the generic “Hiring Manager” or “Hiring Committee”.
• Starting Every Paragraph with “I”: Be creative in finding different ways to begin each paragraph (see our sample letter for examples). If two paragraphs begin with “I”, that’s OK, but no more than that.

Tips from Nurses on Writing Your Nursing Cover Letter

Research potential employers, explain relevant skills that meet the position’s qualifications, include your soft skills, highlight your best qualities, demonstrate your passion, showcase your ability and willingness to learn, check for errors, frequently asked questions about nursing cover letters, what should a nurse cover letter include.

A nurse cover letter should include a header with your name, credentials, and contact information, plus the receiver’s contact information. The body of the letter should specifically address the position you’re applying for, and how you can fulfill the characteristics, credentials, skills, knowledge, and expertise required.

What should a nurse cover letter not include?

Your cover letter does not need to include phrases like, “My references are available upon request”; “Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns”; or “I can be contacted via email at _____________or via phone at _____________.” These are all givens, and if your contact information is in your header, there’s no need to say it again.

What’s the difference between a new grad nurse cover letter and an experienced nurse cover letter?

A new grad nurse cover letter can’t demonstrate the level of skill, expertise, and knowledge as a seasoned nurse. New grads haven’t accumulated years of nursing experience, but they have their academic and clinical performance, enthusiasm, passion, and related healthcare experience to share, whether paid or volunteer. When employers advertise new grad positions, they understand that new grad resumes and letters can’t reflect the resumes of experienced nurses.

Are nursing cover letters necessary?

In these days of online applications, a cover letter may be optional, meaning that applicants can upload a cover letter if they choose to. For some applications, a cover letter will be required. Consider this: if a cover letter is optional, why not go the extra mile and write a strong one? If your resume and experience are comparable to another candidate’s, your cover letter could give you the edge. After all, a resume can’t by nature express much personality, but a cover letter can. So, make a strong impression with a well-crafted letter, whether it’s required or not.

Download our cover letter template (DOCX, 14KB)

Name and Credentials

Town, State | Phone | Email

Personalized LinkedIn profile URL (optional)

Dept and/or contact person Facility or organization Street Town, State, Zip

Dear ________________:

Paragraph 1: Begin by stating the position for which you are applying. Say something about the organization to demonstrate that you’ve done your homework and understand what they’re all about, and that this letter is not at all “cookie-cutter” in nature.

Paragraph 2: Share select highlights of your career, expertise, experience, skills, or personal characteristics that are directly applicable to this position and/or this employer. You can emphasize something from your resume that you want them to make note of, as long as you don’t use exactly the same language as your resume, which is redundant.

Paragraph 3: This is a good place to highlight some of your “soft skills” (e.g., communication, emotional intelligence, relational intelligence, patient education, compassion, empathy, etc).

Paragraph 4: Here you can call attention to your computer skills, EMR experience, etc., as well as any other tech skills worth mentioning.

Closing paragraph: Tie the letter together, reiterate your interest, and express your enthusiastic desire to have the opportunity to meet to discuss your experience and the position further.

Sincerely, Your name and credentials

Miguel Schwartzkoffnian, BSN, RN

Annabelle, HA | 000-000-1000 | [email protected]

LinkedIn.com/in/MichaelSchwartzfoffianbsnrn

April 3, 2023

Department of Nursing Recruitment University of Tabula Rasa Medical Center 301 Rasa Drive Glen Tabularea, MOO 22222

Dear Nursing Recruitment Department:

As a caring and dedicated summa cum laude graduate of Adelphi University’s BSN program, please accept my enthusiastic interest in the Registered Nurse – Respiratory/Intermediate Care position posted on your website. I am both personally and professionally aligned with the values that are a very clear aspect of your organization’s mission. From your “Power of Caring” funding of your expanded Outpatient Care Center to your “Next Generation” initiative, I can clearly see the forward-thinking philosophy underlying UTRMC and its reputation as an innovative facility and community member.

During my education, I thrived in clinical practice where I received positive preceptor feedback following each rotation. I am highly coachable, and as you can see from my resume, I bring more than six years’ related healthcare experience as both an EMT and CNA. I am already well-versed in code blue response, Foley catheter insertion and care, venipuncture, ECG interpretation, and non-complex wound care. Comfortable in new settings, I am not afraid to ask questions to enhance my learning and improve the quality of care I deliver to patients and their families. I thrive in multidisciplinary environments, and I use my highly-developed communication skills and emotional and relational intelligence to foster a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among my colleagues, and nurse-patient relationships built on trust.

As a digital native and quick learner, I am highly competent using the Epic and Cerner EMRs and Microsoft Office Suite, and I have full confidence in my natural curiosity and powers of critical thinking in relation to learning new technologies and digital interfaces.

I have a great deal to contribute as a member of the UTRMC community of clinicians. I look forward to discussing the intersection of my skills and experience with the needs of your inspiring organization that embraces its role beyond the actual facility and into the surrounding community it serves.

Sincerely, Miguel Schwartzkoffnian, BSN, RN

Page last reviewed on February 24, 2023

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How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter That Stands Out + Examples

• Do You Need One?
• What to Include
• 6 Common Mistakes
• Cover Letter Template
• Cover Letter Example
• Don't Forget It!

You're not alone if you think writing a nursing cover letter is intimidating. However, a great cover letter may be the difference between landing the job or having your application ignored. 

Keep reading for expert advice regarding the importance and benefits of writing a nursing cover letter and common mistakes to avoid, and some examples you can use!

Do You Need Nursing Cover Letters?  

The cover letter is your chance to highlight your past experience and let the hiring manager know why you believe you're the best fit for the role. The hiring manager will quickly notice you are motivated and enthusiastic about the job prospect. 

It's also your first chance to show your articulation and communication skills. A well-crafted cover letter makes an impression that instantly sets you apart from other applicants. 

Benefits of Writing a Nursing Cover Letter

Most candidates don't take the time to create a cover letter. In the world of online applications, attaching one is usually optional and feels like extra work. So many applicants fill out the bare minimum and move on to the next job posting. 

Stand out from the competition - Write a killer cover letter. 

Why you should take the time to create your cover letter

• Increase chances your application is reviewed
• Highlight your accomplishments, skills, and qualifications
• Showcase your personality and communication skills
• Make a great first impression
• Show your interest in the position/company

Your resume is important, but the cover letter sets the tone for your entire application. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Nursing Resumes to learn more about current resume etiquette and trends.

Writing a nursing resume can feel overwhelming. It’s no easy task! Nowadays, nursing resumes must be able to pass through resume reading software before it even reaches a recruiter. That’s why we’ve put together THREE nurse resume templates to cater to your unique professional needs and employment situation.

By clicking download, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. You may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

Your request has been received. Thanks!

What to Include in Your Nursing Cover Letter

Did you learn how to write business letters in school? Have you forgotten everything about how to format them? You’re not alone - we’ve got your back here at Nurse.org. 

Let's go through the basic format of a nursing cover letter that can be used at any stage of your professional development, including entry-level and specialty changes. 

The header is simple; it’s just contact information for both you and the hiring organization. The basic format is:

Phone Number

Email Address

Street Address  

• City, ST, Zip Code

Hiring Manager (Use name if possible)

• Healthcare Organization 

The best advice here is to find out the hiring manager's name so you can personalize the greeting. 

How to find out the name of a hiring manager:

• If you have a connection in the organization, ask who will review your application. 
• Review the company website or LinkedIn to find the manager or director for the position. 
• Call the Human resources department. This can be hit or miss, but it's worth a shot if you haven't found the right person. 

Generic greetings should be your last resort. If you've tried and still can't find the name, "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Nursing Recruitment Team" will work. You'll wow them with the rest of your letter. 

Paragraph #1: Opening

In the opening paragraph, identify the position you're applying for and briefly state why you're a good fit. HR and hiring managers often look at resumes for several positions, so this is a chance to remind them that you are applying for X opportunity. It signals the hiring manager to read the rest of your letter and resume with that position in mind. 

Paragraph #2: Background & Qualifications

Your qualifications paragraph is the most important one in your cover letter. Briefly summarize your background, skills, and traits that make you the perfect candidate for the position in about 2-3. Use keywords from the posted job description that complement your skill set. You can also use bullet points to make this paragraph stand out.

Note for new grads: All of your background experience is valuable. Suppose you don't have healthcare-specific work experience. In that case, you can highlight customer service skills, eagerness to learn new processes, and highlights from nursing school clinical experiences. 

Notes for nurses transitioning to new specialties: Give a brief career synopsis and highlight the skills you think will best transfer to the new specialty. Emphasize strengths that align with the job position posting. 

Paragraph #3: Compliment the Organization

Your final paragraph shows you're serious about the position. Research the organization and state why you want to join their team. You can find great information and keywords to use on the job post or their website.

Closing the Nursing Cover Letter

Your closing sentence is brief and invites further conversation. Restate your contact information and Invite the hiring manager to discuss the role further. Then, add in a final closure and your signature. Congratulations,  your letter is complete!

The closure should be respectful and professional. Examples include

• Respectfully
• Sincerely yours
• Yours truly
• With warm regards
• Best regards

How to List Your Nursing Credentials

It’s easy to get confused about how to list your nursing credentials. The correct way to sign your name with credentials is:

[Name], [Highest level of education completed], [License type], [Certifications]

Jane completed an associate degree and is a Registered Nurse without other certifications (yet). Her signature is Jane Doe, ADN, RN

If Jane goes on to complete her BSN and Pediatric certification, her signature changes to: Jane Doe, BSN, RN, CPN

We’ve got templates below to help you get started, but first let’s review some common mistakes you should avoid. 

6 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your Nursing Cover Letter   

Writing a great nursing cover letter may seem daunting, but the process does get easier with practice. Here are a few common nursing cover letter mistakes and pitfalls to avoid.

1. Leaving Grammatical Errors and Typos

Most programs have some spell and grammar check capabilities, but don't rely on them alone. Websites such as grammarly.com offer free proofreading and grammar review. Make sure to review that all names are correctly spelled.

2. Using a Generic Greeting

Do your research to find the hiring manager’s name. If you can’t find it, open the letter with “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid “To whom it may concern” at all costs. 

3. Forgetting to add Keywords

Read the job description carefully. Find keywords that relate to your experience and use them throughout the cover letter. 

4. Not Following Instructions

Follow any specific requirements listed in the job description or application website. If the listing says to upload your cover letter as a PDF, save your document as a PDF before submitting it. 

This is your first test to see if you pay attention to detail and follow directions. Don't fail before you even get started!!

5. Using the Same Cover Letter for Different Jobs

Each position and organization are unique; don’t repeatedly use the same letter. However, you also don't need to start from scratch each time! 

Save your cover letters as you write them so they’re available to edit next time. Highlight different skills if needed. Make it personal to the new position by including keywords from the job listing.

6. Forgetting to Proofread and Edit

Notice how #1 and #6 are almost identical? It’s on purpose - proofreading is the most critical aspect of writing. Here are some tips to help you make sure your cover letter is perfect:

Read your letter out loud. Does it make sense? Do any of the sentences sound strange when you read them out loud? 

Walk away . Putting a bit of time between writing and finalizing your edits can make a world of difference in the final draft.

Enlist a friend. Ask a  trusted friend, career advisor, or faculty member to read the letter before you hit send. 

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Here’s everything your nursing cover letter should include.

City, State, Zip Code

Healthcare Organization Name

Telephone Number

Email address

Dear (Mr. Mrs. Ms.) ________,

Dear Nursing Recruitment Team,

Opening: 2-3 sentences that express your excitement. Name the exact position you are applying for and the organization. Briefly state why you are the best fit. 

Background & Qualifications: 2-4 sentences to highlight your applicable certifications, achievements and strengths. You may use bullet format to draw attention to this section.

Compliment the Organization: 2-3 sentences to show you’ve researched the organization and position. Highlight organizational values that align with yours.

Closing sentence: Thank the hiring manager for taking time to review your application. Invite them to contact you to arrange an interview. 

With warm regards, 

Your Name, (credentials)

Example Nursing Cover Letter

(718) 555–0100

[email protected]

123 Main Street; 

City, ST 12345

August 01, 2023

Hailey Johnson

Human Resources

Mercy Healthcare

123 Broadway Ave;  City, ST 12300

Dear Ms. Hailey Johnson,

I am excited to apply for the Registered Nurse residency program at Mercy Healthcare. I recently graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and believe the skills and knowledge gained during nursing school will be highly valuable to your team.

I received excellent clinical reviews throughout nursing school and graduated with honors. I have excellent time-management skills and look forward to further developing hands-on skills through clinical practice. My ability to coordinate tasks and collaborate with others allows me to provide excellent patient care. 

Mercy Healthcare is well-known for patient-centered care and shared governance. I look forward to making a difference in patients’ lives through compassion, dedication, and excellent nursing care. 

Thank you for considering my application. I can be reached at (718) 555–0100 or [email protected] to arrange an interview and further discuss my qualifications.

Ava Smith, BSN, RN

Don't Forget Your Cover Letter!

Always, always, always attach a cover letter to your job applications. These templates should help you get started. Attaching a cover letter immediately sets you apart from the candidates who do not take the time to write or attach one. Highlight your strengths and show the hiring manager that you’re serious about the position. Then start prepping your answers to  common interview questions for when you get that call.

Joleen Sams is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in the Kansas City metro area. During her 10-year RN career, Joleen worked in NICU, inpatient pediatrics, and regulatory compliance. Since graduating with her MSN-FNP in 2019, she has worked in urgent care and nursing administration. Connect with Joleen on LinkedIn or see more of her writing on her website.

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How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job

I ’ve read thousands, maybe tens of thousands, of cover letters in my career. If you’re thinking that sounds like really boring reading, you’re right. What I can tell you from enduring that experience is that most cover letters are terrible — and not only that, but squandered opportunities. When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test.

So let’s talk about how to do cover letters right.

First, understand the point of a cover letter.

The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just your résumé. Managers generally aren’t hiring based solely on your work history; your experience is crucial, yes, but they’re also looking for someone who will be easy to work with, shows good judgment, communicates well, possesses strong critical thinking skills and a drive to get things done, complements their current team, and all the other things you yourself probably want from your co-workers. It’s tough to learn much about those things from job history alone, and that’s where your cover letter comes in.

Because of that …

Whatever you do, don’t just summarize your résumé.

The No. 1 mistake people make with cover letters is that they simply use them to summarize their résumé. This makes no sense — hiring managers don’t need a summary of your résumé! It’s on the very next page! They’re about to see it as soon as they scroll down. And if you think about it, your entire application is only a few pages (in most cases, a one- or two-page résumé and a one-page cover letter) — why would you squander one of those pages by repeating the content of the others? And yet, probably 95 percent of the cover letters I see don’t add anything new beyond the résumé itself (and that’s a conservative estimate).

Instead, your cover letter should go beyond your work history to talk about things that make you especially well-suited for the job. For example, if you’re applying for an assistant job that requires being highly organized and you neurotically track your household finances in a detailed, color-coded spreadsheet, most hiring managers would love to know that because it says something about the kind of attention to detail you’d bring to the job. That’s not something you could put on your résumé, but it can go in your cover letter.

Or maybe your last boss told you that you were the most accurate data processor she’d ever seen, or came to rely on you as her go-to person whenever a lightning-fast rewrite was needed. Maybe your co-workers called you “the client whisperer” because of your skill in calming upset clients. Maybe you’re regularly sought out by more senior staff to help problem-solve, or you find immense satisfaction in bringing order to chaos. Those sorts of details illustrate what you bring to the job in a different way than your résumé does, and they belong in your cover letter.

If you’re still stumped, pretend you’re writing an email to a friend about why you’d be great at the job. You probably wouldn’t do that by stiffly reciting your work history, right? You’d talk about what you’re good at and how you’d approach the work. That’s what you want here.

You don’t need a creative opening line.

If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you don’t. Just be simple and straightforward:

• “I’m writing to apply for your X position.”

• “I’d love to be considered for your X position.”

• “I’m interested in your X position because …”

• “I’m excited to apply for your X position.”

That’s it! Straightforward is fine — better, even, if the alternative is sounding like an aggressive salesperson.

Show, don’t tell.

A lot of cover letters assert that the person who wrote it would excel at the job or announce that the applicant is a skillful engineer or a great communicator or all sorts of other subjective superlatives. That’s wasted space — the hiring manager has no reason to believe it, and so many candidates claim those things about themselves that most managers ignore that sort of self-assessment entirely. So instead of simply declaring that you’re great at X (whatever X is), your letter should demonstrate that. And the way you do that is by describing accomplishments and experiences that illustrate it.

Here’s a concrete example taken from one extraordinarily effective cover-letter makeover that I saw. The candidate had originally written, “I offer exceptional attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and a talent for managing complex projects with a demonstrated ability to prioritize and multitask.” That’s pretty boring and not especially convincing, right? (This is also exactly how most people’s cover letters read.)

In her revised version, she wrote this instead:

“In addition to being flexible and responsive, I’m also a fanatic for details — particularly when it comes to presentation. One of my recent projects involved coordinating a 200-page grant proposal: I proofed and edited the narratives provided by the division head, formatted spreadsheets, and generally made sure that every line was letter-perfect and that the entire finished product conformed to the specific guidelines of the RFP. (The result? A five-year, $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying this same level of attention to detail to tasks as visible as prepping the materials for a top-level meeting and as mundane as making sure the copier never runs out of paper.”

That second version is so much more compelling and interesting — and makes me believe that she really is great with details.

If there’s anything unusual or confusing about your candidacy, address it in the letter.

Your cover letter is your chance to provide context for things that otherwise might seem confusing or less than ideal to a hiring manager. For example, if you’re overqualified for the position but are excited about it anyway, or if you’re a bit underqualified but have reason to think you could excel at the job, address that up front. Or if your background is in a different field but you’re actively working to move into this one, say so, talk about why, and explain how your experience will translate. Or if you’re applying for a job across the country from where you live because you’re hoping to relocate to be closer to your family, let them know that.

If you don’t provide that kind of context, it’s too easy for a hiring manager to decide you’re the wrong fit or applying to everything you see or don’t understand the job description and put you in the “no” pile. A cover letter gives you a chance to say, “No, wait — here’s why this could be a good match.”

Keep the tone warm and conversational.

While there are some industries that prize formal-sounding cover letters — like law — in most fields, yours will stand out if it’s warm and conversational. Aim for the tone you’d use if you were writing to a co-worker whom you liked a lot but didn’t know especially well. It’s okay to show some personality or even use humor; as long as you don’t go overboard, your letter will be stronger for it.

Don’t use a form letter.

You don’t need to write every cover letter completely from scratch, but if you’re not customizing it to each job, you’re doing it wrong. Form letters tend to read like form letters, and they waste the chance to speak to the specifics of what this employer is looking for and what it will take to thrive in this particular job.

If you’re applying for a lot of similar jobs, of course you’ll end up reusing language from one letter to the next. But you shouldn’t have a single cover letter that you wrote once and then use every time you apply; whatever you send should sound like you wrote it with the nuances of this one job in mind.

A good litmus test is this: Could you imagine other applicants for this job sending in the same letter? If so, that’s a sign that you haven’t made it individualized enough to you and are probably leaning too heavily on reciting your work history.

No, you don’t need to hunt down the hiring manager’s name.

If you read much job-search advice, at some point you’ll come across the idea that you need to do Woodward and Bernstein–level research to hunt down the hiring manager’s name in order to open your letter with “Dear Matilda Jones.” You don’t need to do this; no reasonable hiring manager will care. If the name is easily available, by all means, feel free to use it, but otherwise “Dear Hiring Manager” is absolutely fine. Take the hour you just freed up and do something more enjoyable with it.

Keep it under one page.

If your cover letters are longer than a page, you’re writing too much, and you risk annoying hiring managers who are likely sifting through hundreds of applications and don’t have time to read lengthy tomes. On the other hand, if you only write one paragraph, it’s unlikely that you’re making a compelling case for yourself as a candidate — not impossible, but unlikely. For most people, something close to a page is about right.

Don’t agonize over the small details.

What matters most about your cover letter is its content. You should of course ensure that it’s well-written and thoroughly proofread, but many job seekers agonize over elements of the letter that really don’t matter. I get tons of  questions from job seekers  about whether they should attach their cover letter or put it in the body of the email (answer: No one cares, but attaching it makes it easier to share and will preserve your formatting), or what to name the file (again, no one really cares as long as it’s reasonably professional, but when people are dealing with hundreds of files named “resume,” it’s courteous to name it with your full name).

Approaching your cover letter like this can make a huge difference in your job search. It can be the thing that moves your application from the “maybe” pile (or even the “no” pile) to the “yes” pile. Of course, writing cover letters like this will take more time than sending out the same templated letter summarizing your résumé — but 10 personalized, compelling cover letters are likely to get you more  interview invitations  than 50 generic ones will.

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