student leader application letter example

Special Education and Inclusive Learning

A Quick Guide to Completing a School Leadership Application & Personal Statement

Writing a school leadership application that will get you an interview.

Completing a school leadership personal statement and application form can be a daunting task. With time invested in preparation and attention to detail, you can increase your chances of being selected for the role. I recommend signing up to the Key for School Leaders for insights into leadership responsibilities. Investing time in purposefully clarifying why you want to apply for a school leadership position will not be wasted. If you are stuck for ideas on your achievements read through the DfE Headteachers standards and try and come up with an example of how you meet each one.

5 top tips for completing Headteacher application forms & Personal Statements:

• Follow the instructions carefully: Make sure to read the instructions and requirements for the application thoroughly and follow them closely. This includes following any formatting or word count guidelines.
• Use concrete examples: When answering questions or writing your statement, use specific examples to illustrate your points. This helps the shortlisting team better understand your skills and experiences and how they relate to the role. Were possible link the points in your personal statement with the person specification – in order.
• Proofread and edit: Make sure to proofread your application for spelling and grammar errors. Ask a friend or colleague review your application as well.
• Tailor your application to the role: Customise your application to the specific school and leadership role you are applying for. Research the school and consider how your skills and experiences align with their needs and goals. Quote their values .
• Be honest and authentic: Be genuine in your responses and don’t exaggerate or fabricate experiences. It is better to focus on a key accomplishments in depth rather than trying to cover too much ground.

Secret Tip 1: It will be the school governors/academy trustees leading on this process. Even a deputy headteacher position will have governor involvement.

Secret Tip 2: If you can find the school development plan on the website include any of your strengths or previous projects that could support this.

For more information on school leadership recruitment take a look at our post on Headteacher and SLT interview questions . We have also written about how to approach the challenge of a student panel interview.

Example Personal Statements.

Brevity and clarity are key here. Hit those person specification points within the restrictions set. Some jobs ask for 1 page of A4 for example. I suggest a maximum of 4 sides carefully spaced and formatted to ease reading. The personal statement examples below are to prompt your ideas only. The more senior the position the more detail will need adding. For each paragraph I recommend adding at least 1 example from your own experience.

Leadership Personal Statement Example 1:

As an experienced educator with a passion for inclusion, I am excited to apply for the position of Special School Headteacher. I have dedicated my career to supporting students with autism and other special educational needs, and I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where all students can thrive.

Throughout my career, I have developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by students with autism , including sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties , and struggles with emotional regulation . I believe that creating a safe and supportive environment is essential for helping students to succeed, and I have worked hard to develop strategies and programs that support their specific needs.

I am committed to safeguarding and have a thorough understanding of “ Keeping Children Safe in Education 2022 “. My mission has been to build a culture of vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard students from harm, abuse, and exploitation. I am committed to ensuring that all staff members are trained and equipped with the knowledge and skills to safeguard and protect our students.

I am particularly proud of my inclusive ethos , which emphasises the importance of creating an environment where all students feel valued, respected, and supported. It is essential to believe that inclusion is not just about meeting the needs of students with special educational needs, but about creating a school culture that celebrates diversity and promotes equity for all.

In my previous roles, I have developed strong budget management skills and strategic level management of large staff teams. I am confident in my ability to lead and manage a team of educators, creating a positive and supportive work environment that encourages professional growth and development.

While I have achieved many successes in my career, I recognise that there is always room for growth and improvement. That is why I value the opportunity to work with a coach to help me identify areas for development and improve my leadership skills. I believe that coaching can help me to become a more effective leader, better equipped to meet the needs of my students and staff.

Overall, I am excited about the opportunity to join your team and to continue making a positive impact in the lives of students with special educational needs. I am confident that my experience, skills, and commitment to inclusion and safeguarding make me an excellent fit for the position of Special School Headteacher. Thank you for considering my application.

Leadership Personal Statement Example 2:

As an Assistant Headteacher with 14 years of experience as a special school teacher, I am motivated to take on a leadership role in a school that aligns with my values of inclusivity and continual improvement. My commitment to teaching excellence is evidenced by positive feedback and a broad range of teaching experience with a hands-on and empathetic approach to creating a learning environment .

Throughout my career, I have been involved with continuing professional development (CPD) initiatives and have placed significant emphasis on encouraging staff to participate. I have also monitored pupil achievement and have created assessment tracking systems to improve attainment levels. Responding to budgetary demands as a middle leader, I have focused on maximising value to invest in my areas of responsibility, including communal and outside areas, to ensure an optimal learning environment.

My sensitivity to social and cultural diversity has led me to foster an open and inclusive environment that embraces my pupils’ backgrounds. I work to maintain positive dialogue with parents and to support groups such as EAL and SEN pupils. I believe that developing initiatives to address the links between social background and attainment is essential for school leadership. To achieve this I believe in making strong links with the local community .

As a leader of a large staff team, I value consultation processes and personal insights of staff members when leading a team. I am eager to involve middle leaders in initiatives aimed at improving the school’s performance. As per the DFE policy, I prioritise the safeguarding of pupils and have overseen child protection in my current role.

Leadership Personal Statement Example 3:

As an educator, I firmly believe that setting high expectations for pupils is essential to their success. In my experience, when students are challenged and held to a high standard, they rise to the occasion and achieve more than they ever thought possible. As a teacher, I strive to be an excellent practitioner by embodying this belief and consistently setting high expectations for my pupils.

One way that I have demonstrated my commitment to high expectations is through my work as a Middle Leader. Over the years, I have led both year groups and core subjects, and in both roles, I have been able to make a significant impact on the school community. Through my leadership, I have worked to ensure that my team of teachers shares my belief in high expectations, and that they are equipped with the tools and support they need to deliver challenging and engaging lessons. By working collaboratively with my team, I have been able to ensure that our pupils are consistently challenged, inspired, and motivated to achieve their very best.

Another area where I have excelled as an educator is in my approaches to curriculum implementation. I believe that every subject is essential and that every subject deserves to be championed. To this end, I have worked to ensure that my subject area is given the time, resources, and attention it deserves. By collaborating with other teachers and leaders, I have been able to share my passion for my subject and help others to see its value and importance. Through this approach, I have been able to champion my subject area effectively, ensuring that it is seen as an essential part of the school curriculum.

Being flexible and resilient are also key attributes for any successful educator. In my experience, the ability to adapt and respond to changing circumstances is essential to providing a high-quality education. Whether it’s adjusting to new teaching methods, dealing with unexpected challenges, or accommodating the diverse needs of pupils, being flexible and resilient is essential to success. I have developed these skills over time, and I am always willing to embrace change and try new approaches to teaching and learning.

Finally, I believe that a successful educator should make a contribution to the wider life of the school and community. As an educator, I am committed to going the “extra mile” for my pupils and their families, and I believe that this extends beyond the classroom. Whether it’s participating in extracurricular activities, attending school events, or volunteering in the community, I am always willing to do what it takes to support my pupils and their families.

In conclusion, as an educator, I strive to be an excellent practitioner with high expectations of my pupils. Through my work as a Middle Leader, my successful approaches to curriculum implementation, and my flexibility and resilience, I have demonstrated my commitment to providing a high-quality education. Furthermore, by making a contribution to the wider life of the school and community, I believe that I can make a positive difference in the lives of my pupils and their families. I am excited about the opportunity to continue growing and developing as an educator and to make a positive impact on the lives of my pupils.

Final Points

Remember a personal statement is – Personal to you! It is a chance to tell the panel shortlisting about yourself. If you want to gain an insight into their values try to look up the current headteacher and any governors on LinkedIn. There may be interests you have in common. The personal statement forms part of your application and may tick boxes that the interview doesn’t cover. The panel will also most likely ask questions based on what you have said in the form so be ready with examples.

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Director Of Student Activities Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Director Of Student Activities cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Table Of Contents

• Director Of Student Activities Example 1
• Director Of Student Activities Example 2
• Director Of Student Activities Example 3
• Cover Letter Writing Tips

Director of student activities are responsible for developing and implementing programs that enrich the campus experience for students. They work with a variety of campus organizations to create and promote activities that engage the student body.

When you’re applying for this position, you’ll need to highlight your experience in student affairs and your ability to manage a team of professionals.

Use these examples and tips to write a cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition.

Director Of Student Activities Cover Letter Example 1

I am excited to be applying for the Director of Student Activities position at ABC University. I have more than 10 years of experience in student affairs and believe that my skills and passion for working with students would be a valuable addition to your team.

I have a proven track record of success in creating and implementing programs that engage students and help them connect with the campus community. I have also been successful in fundraising for student activities programs, which is an important component of the Director of Student Activities role.

Most recently, I was the Assistant Director of Student Activities at XYZ University. In this role, I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the student activities program, including clubs and organizations, leadership development, and campus traditions. I also managed a budget of more than $200,000 and was successful in securing funding from a variety of sources.

I am confident that I have the skills and experience to be successful in the Director of Student Activities role at ABC University. I am eager to discuss how my qualifications would benefit your students and your campus community. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Director Of Student Activities Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing to apply for the Director of Student Activities position that was recently advertised on your website. I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications that you are looking for, and I am eager to put my experience to work for your organization.

I have over three years of experience in the field of student activities, and during that time I have successfully planned and organized a wide variety of events and programs. I have a proven track record of being able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines. I am also an effective leader and team player, and I have a strong commitment to providing excellent customer service.

I am confident that I can be a valuable asset to your organization, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss this position further with you. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Director Of Student Activities Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to express my interest in the Director of Student Activities position at your college. I have extensive experience working with students and leading student organizations, which makes me a perfect fit for this position.

I have been working in the field of student activities for over 10 years. I started as a student leader myself, and I have since worked my way up to become an executive board member of several different clubs. I have also served as a faculty advisor to many clubs and organizations on campus. My experience has taught me how to work well with students of all ages and backgrounds, as well as how to lead them effectively.

My experience has also given me the opportunity to develop excellent communication skills. I have learned how to communicate effectively with people from all walks of life, including students, faculty members and staff members. I have also learned how to communicate effectively in both written and verbal forms. These skills will be very useful in my new role as director of student activities.

I would love the opportunity to meet with you in person so that we can discuss my qualifications in more detail. I am confident that my experience and skills will make me an asset to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Director Of Student Activities Cover Letter Writing Tips

1. show your passion for the job.

When applying for a job as a Director of Student Activities, it’s important to show your passion for the job. This can be done by using phrases like “I’m excited” and “I’m passionate” in your cover letter.

2. Highlight your experience

One of the best ways to make sure your cover letter is tailored for a specific job is by paying close attention to the details of the position. For example, if you see that an entry-level job opening requires two years of experience in one type of activity and five years’ experience in another type, then highlight any relevant experience you have in those areas.

If there are any additional requirements or skills mentioned for that job, also list them on your application; this will help make it clear how you can meet their needs.

3. Tailor your letter to the job description

The best way to make sure your cover letter is tailored for a specific job is by paying close attention to the details of the position. For example, if you see that an entry-level job opening requires two years of experience in one type of activity and five years’ experience in another type, then highlight any relevant experience you have in those areas.

4. Proofread your cover letter

Proofreading your cover letter is the first step to landing an interview for a job as a Director of Student Activities. As with any position, it’s important to spell-check and double-check that there are no errors in your resume or cover letter. Otherwise, you risk being disqualified before the employer even sees your qualifications.

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How to Write an Effective Leadership Position Cover Letter and Resume

An outstanding cover letter and resume can be your ticket to landing a senior role regardless of your industry. Writing a great cover letter and resume is no easy feat, especially if this is your first time applying for a senior role. But fear not: this guide will teach you what you need to know to craft a winning application. 

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to write an effective leadership position cover letter and resume. We also show you samples of leadership position cover letters and resumes as well as templates you can use for guidance.

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Leadership position cover letter guide.

To become a team leader, you have to acquire soft skills not taught in a typical classroom. A leadership position cover letter helps you communicate these skills, as well as the experiences and qualifications that contribute to your candidacy, to a potential employer.

Why Does Your Leadership Position Cover Letter Matter? 

Your cover letter matters because it is the first point of contact with a potential employer. Before you meet anyone for an interview, you’ll have to spark their interest with a cover letter. Seeking a leadership position can be an uphill battle if you don’t already have management experience. However, a smart cover letter can help shore up any experience gaps.

Expertly crafted cover letters turn into interviews. A winning cover letter can help you get your foot in the door even if you don’t have previous leadership experience. The best cover letters strike a professional tone and are relevant to the role that the candidate is applying for.  

Essential Components of Your Leadership Position Cover Letter

To craft a strong cover letter, you need to start with the basics and add personal touches later. Here are the essential components to include in your cover letter.

• Your contact information. A well-written cover letter will have your contact information displayed clearly at the top of the page.
• Employer’s contact information. Adding this information is not compulsory, but it gives your letter a more professional look.
• Salutation. You should always address your letter to a specific individual. You can usually find who to address the letter to in the job description. If that information is not there, go to the company’s website and search for the name of the hiring manager.
• Body. A typical cover letter should have at least two or three paragraphs. Strive to capture the reader’s attention right from the beginning with a strong introduction. Next, highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. The body of your cover letter should not be cluttered or overwritten. Be brief and professional.
• Closing. When closing, try to add some incentive for the employer to reach out to you. Reiterate how passionate you are about the role or write about a unique trait that you feel sets you apart from your competitors. 
• Complimentary close and signature. Every letter should end with a closing salutation such as “Sincerely” or “Yours truly” followed by your name. 

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Leadership Position Cover Letter

Whether you are applying for a biomedical research firm or an apparel company, you want to create an amazing cover letter to help you come across as the ideal candidate. Here are tips that will help you secure that great opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

• Be brief. The company you are applying to will receive plenty of other applications just like yours and the hiring manager simply doesn’t have the time to go through long cover letters. Drive your point home in three to four tight paragraphs and you’ll stand a better chance of being called for an interview.
• Link up your experience with the job requirements. Whether you want to be a project manager or a senior application software engineer, you need to show the recruiter you are the perfect candidate for the position. Start by connecting your past accomplishments and leadership experience with the job requirements.
• Be authentic. When crafting a cover letter, you must keep your audience in mind. Put yourself in their shoes and evaluate how interesting and original your piece sounds. To make it more engaging, describe unique career endeavors that have taught you leadership skills and mention your career goals. 
• Show some courtesy. Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for their time and consideration and asking them to contact you at their earliest convenience.
• Edit and proofread. Before sending your cover letter, give it a good edit to bolster sections that may not be as engaging or relevant. Also, ensure you don’t have typos or grammatical errors. 

Leadership Position Cover Letter Example

Writing a cover letter that will catch the hiring manager’s attention is not easy. To provide some guidance, we have included an example of a cover letter for a leadership position that uses all the tips we discussed above.

Leadership Position Cover Letter Sample

Kelly Dale 1 Harvest Don Trail Ricken Heights, VN, 44060 [email protected] 111-234-2356

Jax Duke Hiring Manager ABC Systems Ricken Heights, VN, 44060 111-354-8975 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Duke,

I understand that ABC Systems is looking for a talented operating systems programming manager. I am excited to apply for this position since I’m an ambitious leader passionate about nurturing novice and intermediate professionals in the tech field. I’m dedicated to accomplishing goals at every company I work for and adding value to my team. 

Over the past four years, I have led programming teams in procedural changes. I collaborated with executives and directors to develop policies and procedures for deploying and maintaining operating systems. I motivated my team consistently, which led to achievements and accolades from the top management.

As an operating systems developer, I understand the difficulties of this type of job. Hence, I’m well-informed and focus on streamlining processes and creating a favorable working environment in line with the company culture. I help the junior staff to achieve consistent quality work. 

This is an exciting opportunity to share my skills with your team to help your department accomplish its goals. Please reach out to me if you would like to discuss my qualifications further or schedule an interview. Thank you for your time. 

I look forward to hearing from you.

Leadership Position Resume Guide

As a leader, you will handle challenging projects and undertake demanding responsibilities. Your resume should show potential employers that you are willing and able to tackle those tasks head-on. Below, we show you how to craft a winning resume that will help you stand out in the applicant pool.

Why Does Your Leadership Position Resume Matter?

Your resume is the best tool at your disposal to show employers that you are the right person for the job. It gives you an opportunity to present yourself as the competent professional that you are and to showcase all the relevant skills and qualifications. When combined with a persuasive cover letter, a strong resume will help you advance to the next stage of the application process for a leadership position.

Essential Components of Your Leadership Position Resume

There are several formats that you can use for your resume. The most popular ones are reverse-chronological, functional, and combination. Regardless of the format you choose, your resume should have the following sections. 

• Summary Statement. A summary statement goes at the top of your resume and introduces you to the potential employer. It should be a one to three-sentence description of your professional profile. Use this summary to emphasize your ability to communicate, coordinate, delegate, and manage projects.
• Work Experience. For leadership positions, this is perhaps the most important section in your resume. Use this space to tell the prospective employer about relevant jobs you held in the past. Discuss your duties as well as your main accomplishments.
• Education. Use this section to list degrees, certifications, and licenses. When listing your degrees, include the name of the institution you attended, key courses, and GPA.
• Skills. This is where you list skills relevant to the role. For leadership positions, you’d want to focus on soft skills like communication and people management. You can also include applicable technical skills. 

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Leadership Position Resume

Now that you’ve learned the different components to include in a resume, it’s time to outshine your competitors. Here are the top tips that will help you craft a winning resume. 

• Craft a compelling summary statement. The summary statement is at the very top of your resume, so make sure that it grabs the eye of the reader. To create a great summary statement , write a short professional bio that includes your most significant accomplishments as well as your leadership abilities.
• Demonstrate leadership. When writing your resume, add relevant examples that show your leadership skills. For instance, you can explain how your training techniques helped create a memorable customer experience and increased positive customer reviews. This will prove to the hiring manager that you can get results.
• Show your vision. A leadership position requires having concrete goals and a specific vision for where you want to take the team. Use your resume to show the potential employer that you have a vision for the team you’d be leading. 
• Have concrete accomplishments. For each entry in the work history section of your resume, you should list a few quantifiable achievements. This includes figures on profit growth, productivity improvements, or costs reductions.
• Choose the right design. Resumes always benefit from a functional and minimalistic design. Take your time to format your resume in a way that feels uncluttered and organized.

Leadership Position Resume Examples

We have included samples to aid you in the process of writing a great resume. First, you will find several examples of summary statements. Next, there is a template that you can fill in with your own information to help you get started. 

Leadership Position Resume Sample: The Summary Section

• Example 1 : Motivated programming leader with four years of experience in management and operations systems and the ability to direct client ideas and implement them to fulfill their goals. 
• Example 2 : Team player with expertise in presentation and verbal communication passionate about motivating and training employees to enhance their skills and helping them accomplish their goals.
• Example 3 : Visionary leader that derives satisfaction from helping the company implement its strategies to reach its goals. 
• Example 4 : Project manager with ample experience acting as a liaison between the top management and the software development teams as well as creating work plans, delegating duties, and keeping all stakeholders updated on progress. 

Sample Leadership Position Resume Template

Header  

[Insert your name.]

[Insert your address.]

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

[Insert your telephone number.]

[Insert your email address.]

Summary Statement [Give a brief explanation of your abilities and accomplishments.]

Work Experience [List relevant roles you held in the past starting with the most recent one. Below each role, add bullet points with the duties as well as significant accomplishments. Mention how many employees you managed.]

Education [Add relevant academic qualifications, courses, and certifications. Start with the most recent one.]

Skills [Highlight the value you are adding to the company by listing all the relevant skills. Include hard and soft skills.]

Leadership Position Resume Template Resources

• Zety . This resume builder is perfect for IT project manager positions. It also has instructions on how to fill each section of your resume.
• Live Career . Live Career is a resource with free resume templates that are ideal for leadership positions. The templates come with detailed instructions for each section.
• Novo Resume . This service offers templates as well as guidance on how to create a winning resume fast.

Importance of a Leadership Position Cover Letter and Resume

When applying for leadership positions, your cover letter and resume show your prospective employer you are ready and capable of handling a senior role. Use the tips in this article to write an effective cover letter and resume that present you as a result-oriented leader who can guide and motivate employees to accomplish the goals of the company.  

Leadership Position Cover Letter and Resume FAQ

Some of the action words you can use to enhance your cover letter include overhauled, eliminated, motivated, restored, merged, secured, strengthened, streamlined, prioritized, and incorporated. These words will help you sound more confident, experienced, and ready for the tasks ahead of you.

You want to sound formal and respectful when you close your letter. You can use closing salutations like “Sincerely”, “Best regards”, or “Yours truly” followed by your name.

Depending on the field you specialize in, you may need to list different leadership skills. However, leadership abilities commonly found in resumes include budget management, analytics, empathy, communication, listening, problem-solving, critical thinking, and diplomacy.

To optimize your resume for the applicant tracking system, you have to use the keywords in the job description. For instance, if the job description states the company is looking for an operations manager with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, you should include the terms “operations manager” and “business administration”.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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How to nail your first leadership application form

How many people sit down to fill in their application for a new teaching post... and then procrastinate?

There is no getting away from it: form-filling is dull. And made up of ridiculously tiny boxes. Who even knows their Department for Education number, anyway?  

By the time you get to the personal statement, you’re most likely on the verge of tears or nodding off. And then the self-doubting questions begin: am I really leadership material? What makes me stand out? How can I prove experience and impact without being in a leadership role?

Read: How to become a senior leader

Listen: School leadership and the coronavirus

Watch: How to prepare for your senior leadership interview?

These are questions that will plague almost any candidate at some point in their career.

What does a school senior leader look like?

Venturing into leadership requires courage, persistence and resilience.

Assistant headteacher roles are the most competed for in senior leadership teams, with many dozens of applications for each position, including those pesky internal candidates who have the unnerving benefit of being advantageously well-informed about the school. 

Knowing you’re ready for it is one thing , but demonstrating that without already being in a senior role is tough.

To even dream of a seat at the table, you first need to tackle that application form, particularly when matching your experience to the person specification.

So what things should be your focus when filling in that form? Here are my top tips on matching your experience to the form: 

1. Read, read and read again

The person specification is the key to the entire job application. It explicitly (and sometimes implicitly) outlines precisely what your new school is looking for. When filling in those irritating forms, when crafting your personal statement, refer back to it again and again.

You should aim to absorb, internalise and utilise the language and phrasing they willingly gift you at every stage of the application journey.

2. Every achievement counts

Although you may not (yet) have senior leadership experience, each achievement you have gained, every time you have had a positive impact, it all counts, and must be included in your application.

As well as emphasising the fantastic data you have gained for your class or department, make sure you give yourself credit for your involvement in whole-school improvement.

For example, those contributions you made to the working party which resulted in improved outcomes for disadvantaged students; the peer coaching or mentoring of a colleague who went on to refine their practice; the pastoral intervention you might have done with a member of your form group, and how that has benefited them.

3. Bring your whole self

Let the shortlisting panel know who you are. This, combined with what you have achieved as an educator, will demonstrate the value you will bring to the role.

Consider how your outside interests support fulfilling the person specification, and enjoy bringing your whole self to the application process.

4. Invite critique

Proffering your carefully constructed application to someone else to read prior to submission is daunting, yet, as reflective practitioners, we are used to seeking feedback from others.

Remember to send the person specification along with your personal statement, and ask for suggested improvements related to how well you exemplify the essential and desirable criteria.

However, be selective with which advice you follow. This is your application, and it should sound like you.

Lucy Flower is a music teacher from Leeds. She tweets  @MrsLFlower

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Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 4 amazing recommendation letter samples for students.

Letters of Recommendation

How important are recommendation letters in a college application? According to William Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions and financial aid at Harvard, they are "extremely important."

If you're a student, examples of great letters of recommendation can help you understand how to get strong letters yourself from your teachers. If you're a teacher, the examples in this guide will inspire you to support your students strongly as they apply to college. Keep reading for four excellent letters from teachers that will get anyone into college , along with expert analysis on why they're so strong.

Important Note: Are you looking for job recommendation letters? If so, check out my great post here!

First, let's understand the role of recommendation letters in your application.

Why are Recommendation Letters Important?

The majority of admissions officers at four-year colleges, especially private schools, emphasize that their process is holistic . They seek to gain a sense of the student as a "whole person," rather than focusing on pieces of who she is based solely on grades and test scores. Since they rarely meet the student in person, the recommendation letters, along with the student's own personal essay, play a huge role in illuminating her intellectual and personal qualities.

That's why recommendation letters from teachers, especially those who know their students well, carry a great deal of weight in applications. A letter that expresses a strong vote of support, as well as highlights a student's impressive academic and personal strengths , can have a powerful effect on that student's chances of admission.

Let's look at some samples of strong recommendation letters, one from an English teacher, another from a physics teacher, the third from a history teacher, and the final one from a math teacher. Then we'll break down exactly why these letters of recommendation are effective.

The first example recommends Sara, a senior who loves to write and read poetry.

Sample Letter #1: Sara the Poet

Dear Admissions Committee, I had the pleasure of teaching Sara in her 11th grade honors English class at Mark Twain High School. From the first day of class, Sara impressed me with her ability to be articulate about difficult concepts and texts, her sensitivity to the nuances within literature, and her passion for reading, writing, and creative expression- both in and out of the classroom. Sara is a talented literary critic and poet, and she has my highest recommendation as a student and writer. Sara is talented at considering the subtleties within literature and the purpose behind authors' works. She produced an extraordinary year-long thesis paper on creative identity development, in which she compared works from three different time periods and synthesized cultural and historical perspectives to inform her analysis. When called upon to give her thesis defense in front of her peers, Sara spoke clearly and eloquently about her conclusions and responded to questions in a thoughtful way. Outside of the classroom, Sara is dedicated to her literary pursuits, especially to poetry. She publishes her poetry in our school's literary magazine, as well as in online magazines. She is an insightful, sensitive, and deeply self-aware individual driven to explore art, writing, and a deeper understanding of the human condition. Throughout the year Sara was an active participant in our discussions, and she always supported her peers. Her caring nature and personality allow her to work well with others in a team setting, as she always respects others' opinions even when they differ from her own. When we held a class debate about gun laws, Sara opted to speak for the side opposite her own views. She explained her choice as motivated by a desire to put herself in other people's shoes, view the issues from a new perspective, and gain a clearer sense of the issue from all angles. Throughout the year, Sara demonstrated this openness to and empathy for the opinions, feelings, and perspectives of others, along with shrewd powers of observation, all qualities that makes her outstanding as a student of literature and burgeoning writer. I am certain that Sara is going to continue to do great and creative things in her future. I highly recommend her for admission to your undergraduate program. She is talented, caring, intuitive, dedicated, and focused in her pursuits. Sara consistently seeks out constructive feedback so she can improve her writing skills, which is a rare and impressive quality in a high school student. Sara is truly a stand-out individual who will impress everyone she meets. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions at [email protected]. Sincerely, Ms. Scribe English Teacher Mark Twain High School

This is a thorough, glowing recommendation for a student that Ms. Scribe clearly knows well. What other features make it stand out as a strong letter of rec?

The Breakdown

Ms. Scribe has a high opinion of Sara and her skills at writing and literary analysis. One way that she expresses this is by using powerful and specific language. She doesn't merely say Sara is a good writer. She says she's articulate about difficult concepts and sensitive to the nuances within literature. She calls her insightful and self-aware with shrewd powers of observation.

These descriptors don't happen by accident. Ms. Scribe took the time to choose her words carefully , and that effort paid off with a strong letter that captures Sara's special qualities.

Ms. Scribe also supports her characterization of Sara with examples . She describes her thesis paper and how she responded to questions thoughtfully under the pressured situation of her thesis defense. She gives the example of the debate on gun laws to illustrate Sara's openness to many different points of view.

In addition to illuminating her intellectual and personal strengths and supporting them with specific examples, Ms. Scribe speaks to Sara's goals for the future. She points out that she is talented at writing, poetry specifically, and that she is committed to continuing to improve as a writer in her future.

This letter, by virtue of its wording, length, and specificity, shows that Ms. Scribe took the time and effort to recommend Sara thoughtfully and with conviction. The fact that she knows Sara well and is committed to helping her application succeed with a thoughtful letter further adds weight to her assessment.

This letter would be a boon to Sara's application, especially if she's applying to study writing or English. She clearly impressed her English teacher and, in return, got a memorable, complimentary letter of recommendation for her college application.

This next example is similarly enthusiastic and detailed. It's for a student applying to an engineering program.

Sample Letter #2: Stacy the Engineer

Dear Admissions Committee, It is a great pleasure to recommend Stacy for admission to your engineering program. She is one of the most exceptional students I have encountered in my 15 years of teaching. I taught Stacy in my 11th grade honors physics class and advised her in Robotics Club. I am not surprised to find out she is now ranked at the top of an extraordinarily capable class of seniors. She has a keen interest in and talent for physics, math, and scientific inquiry. Her advanced skills and passion for the subject make her an ideal fit for your rigorous engineering program. Stacy is a perceptive, sharp, quick individual with a high aptitude for math and science. She is driven to understand how things work, whether they be the old computer hard drives in the school library or the forces that hold our universe together. Her final project in class was especially impressive, an investigation of frequency-dependent sound absorption, an idea that she said was sparked by not wanting to bother her parents with her hours of guitar practice at home. She's been a strong leader in Robotics Club, eager to share her knowledge with others and learn new skills. I have the students in the club prepare lessons and take turns leading our after-school meetings. When it was Stacy's turn, she showed up prepared with a fascinating lecture on lunar nautics and fun activities that got everyone moving and talking. She was our only student teacher to be met with much deserved applause at the end of her lesson. Stacy's personal strengths are as impressive as her intellectual accomplishments. She's an active, outgoing presence in class with a great sense of humor. Stacy's the perfect person to get a group project rolling, but she also knows how to sit back and let others take the lead. Her cheerful nature and openness to feedback means she's always learning and growing as a learner, an impressive strength that will continue to serve her well in college and beyond. Stacy is just the kind of driven, engaging, and curious student that helped make our classroom a lively environment and safe place to take intellectual risks. Stacy has my highest recommendation for admission to your engineering program. She has demonstrated excellence in all that she puts her mind to, whether it's designing an experiment, collaborating with others, or teaching herself to play classical and electrical guitar. Stacy's endless curiosity, combined with her willingness to take risks, leads me to believe there will be no limit to her growth and achievements in college and beyond. Please don't hesitate to contact me at [email protected] if you have any questions. Sincerely, Ms. Randall Physics Teacher Marie Curie High School

Ms. Randall is clearly as much of a fan of Stacy as she is of Mileva Marić. How does she communicate her recommendation?

Ms. Randall plugs for Stacy right off the bat with a statement of outstanding ranking : Stacy is one of the most exceptional students she's had in 15 years of teaching. A statement like this is pretty extraordinary and will make an impact in the mind of its readers. Stacy sounds like a special student, and she chose her recommender well.

Like in the last example, this letter uses strong, specific language , calling Stacy a perceptive and sharp person who has the confidence and good humor to take intellectual risks. Through its accurate and expressive language, this letter helps Stacy come to life in the mind of the reader.

Beyond the evaluation, Ms. Randall gives specific examples of Stacy's academic and personal strengths. She talks about her successful teaching in Robotics Club, her leadership in group projects, and her dedicated practice to teaching herself to play the guitar.

Rather than spreading the letter too thin, Ms. Randall highlights a few core themes. She connects Stacy's love of music with her passion for physics by talking about the frequency-dependent sound absorption project. All the threads tie together in a nice, memorable bow.

This letter is a strong vote of support for Stacy's application to an engineering program. Her physics teacher admires Stacy's skills and goals, and she made it clear that Stacy had her highest recommendation in this letter.

This next example also comes from a teacher who's extremely impressed with his student. It focuses on the student's performance in class and his volunteer work outside the classroom.

Sample Letter #3: William the History Buff and Social Organizer

Dear Admissions Committee, It is hard to overstate the meaningful contributions that William has made to our school and surrounding community. As both his 10th and 11th grade History teacher, I've had the pleasure of seeing William make profound contributions both in and out of the classroom. His school and community service is motivated by a strong sense of social justice, which he informs through a nuanced and sophisticated understanding of historical trends and events. I can say with confidence that William is one of the most caring and driven students I've ever taught in my fifteen years at the school. As a child of immigrant parents, William is especially drawn to understand the immigrant experience. He produced an extraordinary semester-long research paper on the treatment of Japanese-Americans in the U.S. during WWII, in which he went beyond all expectations to conduct Skype interviews with relatives of his featured subjects to incorporate into his paper. William has a great capacity to draw connections between past and present and to ground his understanding of current issues in the context of historical events. He never retreats to a simple answer or explanation, but is comfortable dealing with ambiguity. William's fascination with U.S. and World History and skill for deep analysis have him an exemplary scholar, as a well as a motivated activist driven to promote civil rights and work towards social equity. In sophomore year, William noticed that the college planning seminars students attended included little information for first generation or immigrant students. Always thinking about how institutions can better serve people, William spoke with counselors and ESL teachers about his ideas to better support all students. He helped collect resources and design a college planning curriculum for immigrant and undocumented students to enhance their college access. He further helped organize a group that connected ESL students with native English speakers, stating his mission to be helping ELLs improve their English and increasing multicultural awareness and social cohesion at the school as a whole. William identified a need and worked with students and faculty alike to meet it in an extremely effective and beneficial way. Ever the history scholar, he did plenty of research to back up his ideas. William believes passionately in social progress and working for the common good. His own personal experiences, along with his profound grasp on social history, drive his advocacy work. He is a talented, intelligent student with the charisma, confidence, strong values, and respect for others to make a huge difference in the world around him. I'm looking forward to seeing all the good that William continues to do for his fellow humanity in college and beyond, as well as the excellent work that he will produce at the college level. William has my highest recommendation. If you have any questions, please contact me at [email protected]. Sincerely, Mr. Jackson History Teacher Martin Luther King, Jr. High School

Mr. Jackson's letter makes William sound like a pretty amazing student and person. How does he go about expressing his admiration for William in this rec letter?

Like Ms. Randall did in her letter, Mr. Jackson provides a statement of outstanding ranking for William, calling him one of the most caring and driven students he's ever taught. Considering his long teaching career of 15 years, this says a lot about William as a student and a person.

Also like in the last example, Mr. Jackson focuses on a few core aspects of William's character. He talks about his love of history and how it informs his social activism. He comments on his exceptional historical scholarship, as well as his personal qualities of caring for those around him and working for the social good.

Mr. Jackson also gives insight into William's personal life , explaining how he has a personal connection to his projects and volunteer work as the child of immigrant parents. This letter reveals that William is a thoughtful, motivated individual who connects his own experiences with his learning and desire to contribute to his community.

The letter also showcases William's exceptional accomplishments by giving specific examples of William's research paper and his work supporting the academic and personal needs of ELL students. Mr. Jackson expresses his enthusiastic recommendation while illuminating William's love of learning and strength of character. This letter would be both impressive and memorable to admissions officers considering William for admission to their school.

This next example comes from a math teacher. Let's see what Mr. Wiles has to say about Joe.

Sample Letter #4: Joe the Hard Worker

Dear Admissions Committee, It is my pleasure to recommend Joe, who I taught in my 11th grade math class. Joe demonstrated tremendous effort and growth throughout the year and brought a great energy to class. He has that combination of a positive attitude and the belief that he can always improve that's rare in a high school student, but so essential to the learning process. I am confident that he will continue to display the same commitment and diligence in everything he does. I highly recommend Joe for admission to your school. Joe would not describe himself as a math person. He's told me on several occasions that all the numbers and variables make his mind go fuzzy. Joe did, in fact, struggle to comprehend the material at the beginning of the year, but his response to this is what really struck me. Where so many others have given up, Joe took on this class as a welcome challenge. He stayed after school for extra help, got extra tutoring at the nearby college, and asked questions in and out of class. Due to all his hard work, Joe not only raised his grades, but he also inspired some of his classmates to stay after for extra help, as well. Joe truly demonstrated a growth mindset, and he inspired his peers to adopt that valuable perspective, too. Joe helped contribute to our classroom environment as one where all students can feel supported and able to ask questions. Joe's strong belief in his ability to acquire new skills and improve through practice was likely shaped by his years as a baseball player. He's played all through high school and is one of the team's most valuable players. In his final for our class, Joe designed an impressive project calculating and analyzing batting averages. While he initially described himself as not a math person, Joe reaped the benefits of his tremendous effort and found a way to make the subject come alive for him in a way that he was personally invested in. As a teacher, it is incredibly fulfilling to witness a student make this kind of academic and personal progress. Joe is a trustworthy, reliable, good-humored student and friend who supports others in and out of the classroom. He was a pleasure to have in class, and his positive attitude and belief in himself, even in the face of difficulty, is an immensely admirable asset. I'm confident that he will continue to demonstrate the same diligence, perseverance, and optimism that he showed myself and his peers. I highly recommend Joe for admission to your undergraduate program. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions at [email protected]. Sincerely, Mr. Wiles Math Teacher Euclid High School

While the students featured in the first three examples were top of their class or demonstrated leadership in the school, Joe isn't a top achiever in the traditional sense. However, this recommendation is still a strong one, even if it says he struggled in the teacher's class. What does Mr. Wiles focus on to recommend Joe?

Mr. Wiles writes a strong letter for Joe, with the same kind of enthusiasm and specific examples as the other three letters. Even though Joe may not have gotten the strongest grades in his math class, he found an enthusiastic recommender in his math teacher. Mr. Wiles was extremely impressed with Joe's attitude, effort, and growth mindset , which he demonstrated throughout the year and inspired in his fellow classmates.

Mr. Wiles focuses on Joe's substantial personal strengths, ones that would likely be impressive to his future educators. Even in a subject that may not come naturally to him, Joe is diligent and committed. He's not self-conscious about asking questions or seeking extra help, and he retains a strong belief in himself that he can continuously learn, improve, and acquire new skills.

This letter, like the others, is effective because it is focused, supportive, and backed up with examples. As you can tell from these examples, recommendations can communicate a great deal about a student. Because of this, they can have a powerful impact on a student's chances of admission. So what can teachers and students do to make sure they are sending a strong recommendation letter that will help their chances?

Enthusiasm is key.

How to Get a Strong Recommendation Letter

While these letters are about different students with different interests, they share certain fundamental features. One, they sound excited and enthusiastic. The teachers clearly communicate that they are impressed by these students and eager to help them get into college.

At the same time, the letters don't go overboard because they have examples to back up their assessments. Specific examples and stories are key for backing up the assessment. Plus, they make a letter more interesting and memorable. Rather than just another engineering applicant, Stacy is the student who researched sound-absorption to spare her parents from hours of guitar scales.

Finally, the teachers all discuss their students' personal strengths , along with their academic strengths. They present the holistic view that admissions officers are looking for, along with their strong vote of confidence in the students' future success.

Teachers should incorporate all these features into their letters, and students should help provide them with the raw material to write about. While students should choose a teacher who knows them well and has stories and observations to share, they should also give their teachers a detailed "brag sheet" and let them know what would go into their ideal letter. That way it can be even more personalized and complement the story the student is telling in the rest of her application.

While recommenders may or may not share their letters with students, there should still be open, two-way communication when the student makes her request . That way students and teachers can work together to produce an insightful, enthusiastic, and specific letter of recommendation to send to colleges.

What's Next?

Are you a teacher writing recommendations for your students? Read all about how to write an outstanding recommendation letter for your students , along with what not to include.

Are you or a student you work with applying to a selective school, like Harvard? Learn about what kind of letter she should get for the Ivy League.

Now that you've read these examples of strong teacher recommendation letters, check out these examples of bad ones . Warning: rec letters may appear better than they actually are.

Rebecca graduated with her Master's in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.

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Guidelines for Completing your Leadership Application

The following are guidelines for completing your Leadership Scholarship application. These ideas will help you to think about how to structure your essay, what to include in your essay, and how to prepare for an interview if you are selected. They are not meant to be step-by-step instructions, nor are they given in any particular order of importance. If there is anything unusual about your timeline, project, or circumstances, please talk about this as well. In addition to reviewing these tips, you may wish to attend an information session before writing your essay. 

Writing your application essay

Apply when you are ready.

Most students who are successful in the leadership scholarship application process are those who are beyond the “idea” stage and have begun planning or implementing their ideas. Planning may include activities such as making contact with involved persons, scheduling and organizing meetings, recruiting volunteers or participants, writing a mission statement, or getting elected to office. The scholarship committee members need to be able to imagine you in action.

Focus your essay

Below are some questions to think about as you develop your application essay. Use these and other questions you identify about your own learning and leadership goals to help you develop an integrated statement. Essays that are merely a list of separate answers to these questions will not be competitive.

• What does leadership mean to you?
• What experiences have informed these understandings?
• How will your activity and your role in that activity deepen your thinking about leadership?
• What activity do you propose to undertake with this scholarship? (Be specific)
• What is your unique role in this project – how does your individual initiative and creativity shape your project?
• How does this project or activity provide a way for you to develop as a leader?
• What do you hope to learn through your involvement in the activity you describe?
• How does your activity foster this learning?
• How does this learning connect to your larger educational and/or life goals?
• What do you hope to know, be able to do, or become as a result of your experience with your proposed activity?
• How will you know you have achieved these goals?
• What difference will accomplishing these goals make in you and your role in a community?

Write a compelling essay

The writing of a Mary Gates Leadership essay calls for a balancing act between describing your ideas on leadership and personal development as well as the project or idea that you are using to move your leadership development forward.

Here are some components that we have found make for a compelling leadership essay:

Write your essay in your own voice:

• There is a clear and consistent voice of the writer that lets the reader connect on a personal level.
• The reader has a clear sense of what the writer feels about leadership on a personal level.
• Readers also have a sense of how the writer identifies themselves as a leader.
• These thoughts on leadership are tied to personal narratives and experiences within the essay.

Effectively illustrate a clear plan and timeline for your project:

• There is a clear description of the project or set of ideas within which the leadership experience will be framed.  Your essay gives the reader confidence that you have thought carefully about how to approach the project, have  the necessary support to carry it out, and that the project will be challenging but ultimately do-able (at some level).
• The essay is organized well with a natural flow between sections and is not cobbled together.
• For previous applicants/recipients: Acknowledge your prior application/award and cite the major goals you will set for yourself with this new application. Reviewers and interviewers will want to know what you have accomplished since your last application, as well as your plans for the new award period.

Show your enthusiasm and commitment to the work:

• The writer describes how they know they will have accomplished what they are setting out for themselves both personally and concretely.
• There is mention of how this project/process is connected to the writer’s ultimate goals.
• The reader is left with a clear understanding of the passion that the writer feels about their leadership project and is excited to meet with them to learn more!

Describe how your mentor guides/supports your role in your project:

• The essay explains clearly how the mentor was chosen and why.
• There is also a clear sense of how your partnership with your mentor will evolve through the project.

Adhere to provided formatting guidelines

Essays should be no more than four pages (double-spaced, in 12 point font or equivalent size, standard margins). One additional page may be included for references, images, and/or figures, if applicable – this page will not be included in the page limit.

Prepare for your interview

Application timeline.

The application review process may take up to 8 weeks. If you are selected as a finalist, you may be contacted to schedule an interview with members of the Mary Gates team as well as a committee member. After your interview is completed, we will contact you to let you know whether you have been awarded the Leadership Scholarship.

Interview questions

In an interview, committee members will ask you to expand upon your essay. Some interview questions that committee members have asked in the past include:

• How do you plan to grow/what do you need to learn as a leader?
• Is this project something that this community wants or needs?
• How are you planning to work with others on your project? With your mentor?
• What do you hope to learn or gain from this project?

Ask for critical feedback before submitting your application

Ask your mentor and someone who is not involved in your project to review your essay.

Your mentor will provide you with the best feedback on your essay’s representation of the work you are doing and how it fits into a larger framework. Someone else – a peer, another instructor, or adviser – will be able to tell you if your essay is clear to an outside perspective, and if you have conveyed a sense of enthusiasm and commitment for the work you describe. Be sure to leave yourself enough time to get feedback from these key people before submitting your application.

Schedule an advising appointment with us

If you would like to discuss your application/proposed leadership project with a Mary Gates team member before submitting, we highly encourage you to schedule an advising appointment with us. For first-time applicants, we recommend that you schedule a ‘First-time Applicant Advising Appointment’ or a ‘General Advising Appointment’. For returning applicants/awardees, you are able to discuss your past applications with an MGE team member by scheduling a ‘Feedback Appointment’ with us.

Attend an application workshop

During each application cycle, we host application workshops that applicants are encouraged to attend. These workshops will give applicants more in-depth advice on how to structure their application essay and what to include. Applicants are asked to bring a draft of their application to the workshop as well, as there is allotted time for peer reviews and for applicants to ask specific questions pertaining to their project/application. RSVP here for our application workshops!

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Student Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Unlocking the doors to your dream job as a student? It's time to unleash the power of a stellar cover letter!

While your resume showcases your qualifications, a well-crafted cover letter adds that extra punch of personality and passion. Don't let your student cover letter be an afterthought—let it be your secret weapon to make employers go "Wow!"

In this guide, we'll show you how to captivate employers, land interviews, and prove that even as a student, you've got what it takes to make a lasting impression. 

And so, whether you’re at the beginning or nearing the end of your academic journey, a great student cover letter presents the ideal introduction and an extended interpretation of your experience.

1. Start your student cover letter with a proper greeting

A cover letter should always include a heading that contains your name, address, professional websites or portfolios, and date in a similar format as other professional letters.

Most LinkedIn job posts will include the name of the hiring manager to whom the letter should be addressed to, so make sure you obtain this information from the get-go.

Here are 2 examples of personalized student cover letter greetings

• Dear Mr. Jack Green,
• Dear Hiring Manager Joe Johnson,

If a name is not provided, start your letter with Dear Hiring Manager , or Dear Sir or Madam .

In this day and age, the outdated To Whom It May Concern phrasing is no longer acceptable, so make sure to do your research!

2. Open your student cover letter with a strong introduction

Your introduction should be strong and captivating in as little as one to three sentences.

Express your enthusiasm for the role and why you would be an ideal candidate. Some companies may have multiple job postings at a time, so make sure to address the specific position you are applying to within the first sentence.

As a good rule of thumb, make sure to submit an original, tailored-made cover letter to each job you are applying to.

Here are a few examples of strong student cover letter introductions

• As a motivated and ambitious student with a passion for [field of interest], I am thrilled to apply for the [position] at [company]. With a strong academic foundation and a drive to learn and grow, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of your team.
• As a highly motivated student with over 3 years of experience in the digital arts, I am excited to apply to [insert role name].
• As a third-year undergraduate student with an extensive background in accounting, I am eager to pursue the [insert role name] at your organization.

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

3. mention what attracted you to the role.

Before applying to a job, it is best practice to commit some time to researching the company or organization you are applying to.

What is their mission? Do their values align with yours? What attracts you to their particular industry? Is there something you admire about their line of work?

This information will offer a bit of insight into your interests and will help recruiters determine if you fit into their company culture . Include this information within your introductory paragraph.

Here’s an example to get you started

I am eager to take part in your company’s mission to provide high quality products while advancing sustainable, eco-friendly home solutions.

4. Detail your previous work and academic experience in a student cover letter

The second paragraph of your cover letter should be devoted to explaining what makes you a great candidate for the role .

Detail the relevant experience that you’ve gained from previous jobs, internships, or volunteer positions concisely. Don’t be modest. Even that three-month administrative internship at your local library taught you an array of customer service and organizational skills.

Detail your most recent, and most impressive accomplishments first and avoid being redundant.

Tailor your responses to the specific skills and experience the recruiter is looking for in any specific job post.

Here are a few examples of how to detail your previous experience

• During my summer internship at [Company Name], I had the opportunity to work closely with a cross-functional team, where I developed strong problem-solving and communication skills. I contributed to various projects, including [specific project], where I successfully implemented [specific task], resulting in [positive outcome]. This experience taught me the value of collaboration and adaptability in a professional setting.
• As a volunteer at [Organization Name], I honed my leadership skills by organizing and leading fundraising events for local charities. Through my involvement, I developed exceptional event planning and coordination abilities, managing a team of volunteers and ensuring seamless execution of initiatives. This experience not only deepened my commitment to community service but also strengthened my organizational and interpersonal skills.
• At my previous sales associate role, I leveraged customer service skills and time management to help achieve our daily sales goals.
• At my previous role of editor for the student-run newspaper, I gained valuable skills in writing, proofreading, time management and communication.

Find out your resume score!

5. Highlight your best hard and soft skills in a student cover letter

Think of hard skills as your trusty toolbox, filled with technical expertise and knowledge, ready to tackle any challenge.

But hold on, don't forget about the secret sauce: your soft skills ! These are the magical ingredients that add flavor and finesse to your professional recipe. From communication sorcery to problem-solving wizardry, your unique blend of hard and soft skills will impress any potential employer.

Here are a few examples of hard skills to mention in your student cover letter

• Graphic design
• Deep knowledge of utilizing scientific equipment
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Technical skills in programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, HTML)
• Data analysis and interpretation
• Research and analytical skills
• Knowledge of project management methodologies

On the other hand, soft skills are those that come naturally and can vary by individual.

Here are a few examples of soft skills to mention in your student cover letter

• Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written)
• Strong problem-solving abilities
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Leadership and decision-making
• Time management and organizational skills
• Attention to detail
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn

Make sure to add a little bit of both to your second paragraph as a means to enhance your range and versatility.

Feeling stuck? It’s always good practice to refer to the original job post to see pinpoint the specifics skills required for the role and highlight those you already possess.

6. End your student cover letter with a strong concluding statement

The concluding paragraph is almost as important as the introductory paragraph. The goal is to leave a memorable impression that stands out from other applicants.

In a few sentences, summarize your experience and enthusiasm for the role and remind them why they should consider you for the role.

Don’t be afraid to ask for an interview and make sure to thank the recruiter for their time and consideration. Include the best way for the recruiter to contact you, whether it be your phone number, email address, or both.

At the end, use a professional sign-off phrase like “ Sincerely ” or “ Best Regards .”

Here’s an example of an effective concluding statement for your student cover letter

Finally, I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my qualifications in further detail. I can be reached at 555-555-55555 or via email at [email protected]. Thank you for your time and consideration and I look forward to speaking with you in the near future.

[Applicant Name]

7. Job hunting resources for students

For students entering the job market, leveraging the right resources can pave the way to a bright career. Here are some key resources that can offer a valuable boost to your job search:

• University career services: Utilize your college or university's career services which often offer job placement assistance, resume writing workshops, mock interviews, and career fairs. They also provide guidance on internships and co-op opportunities that can provide invaluable experience.
• Online job platforms: Websites like Indeed , GlassDoor , LinkedIn , and Handshake are excellent platforms for job searching. These sites allow you to create a profile, upload your resume, and search for jobs by location, industry, and job function.
• Internship search platforms: Websites like Internmatch , Chegg Internships , and YouTern are dedicated to helping students find valuable internship opportunities to gain industry experience before graduation.
• Professional networking sites: Networking is crucial when looking for a job and sites like LinkedIn can be invaluable. Connect with alumni, professors, and potential employers in your field of interest.
• Online skill improvement platforms: Sites like Coursera , Khan Academy , and edX offer courses on an array of subjects, helping you upgrade your skills and knowledge that can add weight to your resume.
• Career-specific student associations: Organizations like the American Marketing Association (AMA) for marketing students, or the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) for architecture students, offer excellent networking opportunities, job postings, and professional development resources.
• Company websites: Don't overlook the career pages of companies you're interested in. Many companies post job vacancies, internships, and graduate programs on their websites directly.

Remember, the job hunting process might be challenging, but with these resources, determination, and resilience, you're well on your way to landing a rewarding opportunity.

Student Cover Letter FAQ

Yes, it's advisable. A cover letter allows you to highlight your skills, experiences, and why you are a good fit for the role. It's an opportunity to make a compelling case for yourself beyond what's in your resume.

It's advisable to tailor your cover letter to each job application. Employers can often tell a generic cover letter from a personalized one. Adapting your letter to each position demonstrates a genuine interest in the job and company.

A balanced approach is best. Academic achievements show your knowledge and dedication, while extracurricular involvement illustrates transferable skills like teamwork and leadership. Tailor the focus based on the job you're applying for.

As a rule of thumb, your cover letter should not exceed one page. Keep it concise and focused, highlighting only the most relevant information.

Highlight any relevant skills and experiences you have acquired through volunteering, school projects, clubs, or sports. Discuss how these experiences and the skills gained make you a suitable candidate for the job.

Martin Poduška

Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .

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Cover letter for an educational leadership position(5 samples)

As a BetterHelp affiliate, we may receive compensation from BetterHelp if you purchase products or services through the links provided.

The Optimistminds editorial team is made up of psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Each article is written by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter.  The article then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.

This blog post will show samples of cover letters for education leadership positions.

Samples of cover letters for education leadership positions

To get an education leadership position, you need a well-written cover letter that showcases your passion for and dedication to the industry. When writing an education program leadership position cover letter, these are some of the essential things to include in your letter:

• Address the employer with a formal salutation. For example, “Dear/Hello (name of the recipient or hiring manager).”
• The next step is to state the position you are applying for and how you found the opening. 
• Write a short sentence about why you’re interested in the position.
• State your skills and work experience; ensure they are similar to the job position. When stating your skills, provide the accomplishment you have achieved. 
• Conclude your letter with a forward-looking statement. For example, “I look forward to discussing the position further.”

“Dear Mr. Wooten:

Upon learning of your posting for the position of education director, I felt compelled to submit my resume for your review. As an accomplished, visionary business and education leader with comprehensive operational, planning, and program development experience, I am well prepared to significantly contribute to your company’s goals and objectives.

My expertise lies in overseeing strategic planning, budget administration, and program development and management to create improvements in academic performance for special education students. With a master of education as well as a master of business administration, I possess a unique blend of experience in both the business and education fields. From developing curricula and creating educational materials to preparing annual business plans and budgets and directing staff training initiatives, I excel at spearheading strategic enhancements to drive goal achievement while communicating openly and routinely with staff, management, and ancillary professional teams.

Highlights of my experience include…

Overseeing policy and procedure development and implementation, program management, training and leadership, and overall operational leadership tasks to facilitate optimal performance for the special education program across the Wenatchee School District for the past 14 years

Delivered vital leadership to district schools in the instruction, assessment, and placement of special education students, also providing instructional guidance and leadership pertaining to online learning and computerized materials

Researching and evaluating program curricula and materials, implementing dynamic teaching methods, and working closely with advisory groups to optimize student engagement and learning

Collaborating and communicating consistently with parents and school staff to identify and quickly resolve issues regarding special education instruction

Serving as a passionate advocate for education and demonstrating a fervent commitment to enhancing the learning experience through classroom technology and program implementation

My skills in business and education operational oversight and directional leadership have been finely honed, and I am confident my additional strengths will readily translate to your environment. The chance to offer more insight into my qualifications would be most welcome. Thank you for your consideration; I look forward to speaking with you.

Frances S. Golding”

“Dear Ms. Anderson,

I would like to submit my name for the Education Administrator position with your school and I have submitted this letter of introduction and resume for that purpose. I know that my management skills coupled with my love for education would make me the perfect candidate for this position as well as making me an asset to James Logan High School.

I have summarized my skills and abilities in order to highlight my background for your perusal:

•I have worked in education for more than twenty years and five of those years were spent in an administrator’s capacity.

•My knowledge of what it takes to run a school effectively, from curriculum and state certification would be beneficial to your school.

•I also bring a financial responsibility to this job that helps me to bring any school I work at in at the end of each year with no budgetary overages.

I know that running a school in any aspect requires a team effort. I feel that my skills at managing a team and making sure that every component is running smoothly would make me a positive contributor to James Logan High School.

I would like to set up a time to meet where we can further discuss what skills I would bring to your school and how your school would benefit from my placement. I can be reached at (555)-555-5555 or emailed at [email]

Patricia Foreman

Encl: Resume”

“Dear Ms. Gladys Weatherspoon,

I am applying for the position of Education Manager with MedStar VNA, Inc. and my experience and training match the requirements of this job.

I have a bachelor’s degree in education and four years of experience working as a teacher where I gained extensive knowledge of the curriculum, programs and educational plans for schools. I understand how the system works and I have the organizational and time management skills needed to manage the educational system for this district efficiently.

I have extensive knowledge of the educational regulations, policies and standards set forth by the state and government. I have the training and skills to implement educational programs that match the standards of the school and to assist with creating the curriculum. I can provide support for the staff, attend meetings and help to maintain a safe and healthy environment.

I also have the skills to perform the administrative duties associated with this job such as preparing financial reports, managing the budget and distributing funds. I possess very strong communication skills with the ability to convey ideas and information to others proficiently both verbally and in writing.

I have good interpersonal and leadership skills with the ability to help bring the officials together for the good of the schools. I am very motivated and creative with the ability to bring new, fresh ideas to your district. I am always thorough, discreet, friendly and professional.

You can reach me for an interview to by calling (555)-555-5555 and I am looking forward to meeting with you soon.

Respectfully,

Catalina Brand

Resume Attached as MS Word Document”

“I am excited to be applying for the Education Manager position at the ABC School District. I have more than 10 years of experience in education, including five years as a classroom teacher and three years as a school administrator. I am confident that my skills and experience will make me an excellent fit for this role and I am eager to join the ABC School District team.

As an administrator, I have experience developing and implementing curriculum, managing staff, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of a school. I am also experienced in creating and managing budgets. I am confident that I can bring my skills and experience to bear in order to help the ABC School District continue to provide an excellent education to its students.

I am passionate about education and believe that every student deserves a quality education. I am committed to working hard to ensure that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential. I am excited to join the ABC School District team and to work together to help all students achieve their dreams.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”

“Josue Ortega

City, State, Zip Code

Home : 000-000-0000 Cell: 000-000-0000

[email protected]

Dear Ms. Arnold,

I would like to apply for the Education Administrator position with the Stern County School District. I hold nearly 15 years of experience in the education field with seven of those being spent as an administrator. In my current capacity as Education Administrator with the Stowe School District I lead an academic team of nearly 100 teachers manage annual budgets and assist in curriculum planning.

My academic preparation along with excellent organizational skills aid in my ability to be a successful administrator. I possess strong leadership skills that help me to interact well with school faculty parents and other key educational stakeholders. My professional experience over the years has taught me the benefits of good communication. I have been praised for my efforts to keep all team members informed of important duties required of them. I would love to bring this collaborative spirit to Stern County School District. I am confident that my educational background leadership skills and personal traits make me an outstanding candidate for your Education Administrator position.

I look forward to meeting with you personally to discuss my overall qualifications and reviewing my portfolio with you. Please don’t hesitate to contact me at your earliest convenience and I thank you for your consideration.

Josue Ortega”

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the role of an executive director.

An executive director provides strategic direction, manages resources, and ensures that the organization meets its goals.

What skills should an executive director possess?

Skills for an executive director

• Leadership and managerial skills
• Analytical thinking and strategic planning
• Project management knowledge
• Adaptability
• Relationship building
• Decision-making and sound judgment

If you like this blog post, please leave your comments and questions below.

https://www.jobhero.com/cover-letter/examples/education/education-director

https://www.greatsampleresume.com/cover-letter/examples/education/administrator

https://www.livecareer.com/cover-letter/examples/education/administrator

https://www.greatsampleresume.com/cover-letter/examples/education/manager

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Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

14 orientation leader cover letters.

Approved by real hiring managers, these Orientation Leader cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Table of contents

• Orientation Leader
• Senior Orientation Leader
• Student Engagement Coordinator
• Student Orientation Coordinator
• New Student Orientation Leader
• First-Year Experience Coordinator
• New Student Programs Assistant
• Student Services Coordinator
• International Student Advisor
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Orientation Leader resume examples

Orientation Leader Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, highlighting specific accomplishments.

Instead of simply listing responsibilities, this cover letter provides specific numbers and accomplishments that demonstrate the candidate's ability to create a strong sense of community and connection among students.

Emphasizing Transferable Skills

By highlighting the candidate's communication and empathy skills, it shows how they can directly benefit the Orientation Leader role and create a welcoming environment for new students.

Showing Genuine Excitement

This cover letter conveys the candidate's excitement about the role and the opportunity to work with a diverse student body, demonstrating that they are truly passionate about the position and not just applying to any company.

Show Genuine Interest

Identifying your connection and expressing your eagerness to replicate it is quite refreshing. It's not always about what you've done, but also, why you want to do it. And trust me, hiring managers can tell genuine interest from a generic application!

Relevant Experience Matters

Highlighting your relevant and specific experience, like coordinating and leading a team, shows you can perform well in the role. Plus, you've made it easier for me to see you in the role, which is what you want!

Showcasing Tangible Achievements

It's a big win when you can share something concrete you've achieved, like improving retention rates by a certain percentage. That's something measurable and meaningful you can bring to the table.

Highlighting Leadership and Adaptability

Steering a team through a project, especially one that caters to a large number of students, displays your leadership skills. Plus, creating a virtual platform indicates your adaptability to changing circumstances, a trait that can be a real asset.

Expressing Alignment with Role and Institution

When you show that your passion aligns perfectly with the role and the institution's values, it suggests a potential fit that might go beyond the professional, making you a more compelling candidate.

Showing Enthusiasm and Vision

Presenting a vision for the role - like making the start of college a memorable experience - shows your enthusiasm and commitment to going beyond expectations.

End with a Personal Signature

A unique sign-off like "A Passionate Orientation Enthusiast" adds a personal touch and leaves a memorable impression. It's a nice little flourish to seal a strong cover letter.

Connect through shared experiences

Sharing your personal journey from a freshman to a senior shows a deep understanding of the student experience. This personal touch makes your cover letter more relatable.

Highlight the desire to give back

Mentioning your eagerness to contribute positively to new students highlights your enthusiasm and commitment to the role of an orientation leader.

Show your leadership and communication skills

Describing your role in student organizations showcases your relevant skills and indicates you can handle the responsibilities of an orientation leader effectively.

Demonstrate your impact potential

Expressing excitement about the role suggests you are motivated and have a clear vision of how you can make a difference in the lives of incoming students.

Share your passion for the institution

Your affection for the University of Michigan strengthens your application, showing you're not just looking for any role but specifically want to contribute to this community.

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Connect your past experiences to the orientation leader position

Sharing your positive orientation experience as a student helps me see you're genuinely interested in recreating that for others, which is exactly the kind of motivation we need.

Illustrate your ability to support diverse student needs

Your background as a peer advisor showcases your preparedness to handle a variety of student concerns, making you a strong candidate for the orientation leader role.

Emphasize the importance of a welcoming orientation

Your understanding of orientation's critical role in a student's transition to college life shows that you grasp the importance of the position you're applying for.

Show your commitment to creating a sense of belonging

By emphasizing your goal to foster community and belonging, you're highlighting an essential quality for being an effective orientation leader.

End your orientation leader cover letter on a thankful note

Concluding with a note of thanks demonstrates your good manners and respect for the reader's time, contributing to a favorable overall impression.

Show your personal connection to the orientation leader role

Sharing your experience as an international exchange student not only shows your understanding of the challenges students face but also your genuine passion for helping them overcome these challenges.

Demonstrate your capability in student engagement

Highlighting your ability to lead large groups and organize workshops showcases your leadership skills and your talent for creating engaging, educational experiences for students.

Illustrate your mentoring skills

Discussing your role in providing one-on-one guidance to international students emphasizes your capability for personal student support, an essential trait for an effective orientation leader.

Connect with the company's mission

Expressing enthusiasm for the company’s approach to learning shows you have aligned goals, which makes you a potentially valuable addition to their team.

Express eagerness to contribute

Concluding with a forward-looking statement about joining their team highlights your eagerness and readiness to make a positive impact.

Senior Orientation Leader Cover Letter Example

Personal experience is a plus.

Your personal experience as a freshman gives you a unique understanding of the challenges and needs of the role. It's clear that you're not just looking for a job, but a role where you can make a real difference.

Provide Concrete Results

Sharing specific results of your previous work, like improving retention rates, shows you're results-oriented. This lets me know you're not just about ideas, but about action and meaningful impact as well.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Emphasizing your ability to work with diverse groups underscores your leadership and adaptability. These are key skills for a Senior Orientation Leader role, and it's great to see you've already thought about how your past experiences translate to this new role.

Passion is Visible

Your passion for shaping a student's university journey is apparent. It shows that you understand and value the importance of the orientation experience, and that you're genuinely invested in the role. That's the kind of passion hiring managers are looking for.

End on a High Note

Expressing your excitement about the prospect of joining the team leaves a positive final impression. It's a strong way to close your letter, leaving me with a sense of your enthusiasm and commitment.

Student Engagement Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Demonstrate impact.

Turning the welcome week into a festival of discovery and connection - and boosting participation by 40% - is a great example of how you've made an impact in a previous role. It paints a picture of what you could achieve in the new role too.

Offer Proof of Leadership Skills

Designing a mentorship program that led to an improvement in academic performance shows not just your innovative thinking, but also your ability to lead others to success. This kind of example can really resonate with hiring managers.

Expressing Excitement about the Role

Sharing your excitement about the potential of enhancing campus culture shows your genuine interest in the role and the institution. It indicates you're not just looking for any job, but this specific role at this specific institution.

Share Your Vision

Speaking about the possibilities you see at the institution demonstrates your forward-thinking and proactive approach. It shows you've really thought about how you might fit in and contribute to the institution.

Personalize Your Sign-off

Signing off as "An Engaged and Eager Innovator" not only gives a hint of your personality but also reinforces the key qualities you bring to the table. It's the icing on the cake of a well-crafted cover letter.

Student Orientation Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Emphasize the importance of orientation.

Illustrating the impact of your own orientation experience at Ohio State University demonstrates your understanding of the role's significance and sets a solid foundation for your interest.

Quantify your achievements

Detailing your success in coordinating virtual workshops with specific numbers not only showcases your capability but also provides a tangible measure of your contributions.

Focus on student support

Stating your passion for aiding students in their transition conveys a genuine care for their well-being, an essential quality for a student orientation coordinator.

Bring creative solutions to the team

Expressing your excitement to bring new ideas and energy to the role indicates that you are a dynamic candidate who will actively contribute to the team's success.

Appreciate the reader's time

Acknowledging the time taken to review your application is a polite gesture that rounds off your cover letter on a respectful note.

New Student Orientation Leader Cover Letter Example

Share personal stories in your orientation leader cover letter.

When you talk about your own welcoming experience, it helps me see that you understand the role's impact from the perspective of a new student. This personal touch is powerful.

Showcase relevant experience for the orientation leader role

Mentioning your experience as a peer advisor demonstrates your ability to guide and support students, which is exactly what we look for in an orientation leader.

Highlight your passion for student support

Your enthusiasm for helping new students makes your application stand out. It shows you're not just looking for a job, but you're dedicated to making a difference in students' lives.

Demonstrate your qualifications for being an orientation leader

By connecting your skills and experiences to the role, you make a compelling case for why you're the right fit. This clarity helps me envision you in the position.

Express gratitude in your cover letter

A simple thank you note at the end of your letter adds a touch of professionalism and politeness, leaving a positive impression on the reader.

First-Year Experience Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Show your program facilitation skills.

Telling us about your role as a First-Year Interest Group Leader gives clear proof of your ability to plan and run programs that help students start their university life right. This is what we look for in a candidate.

Demonstrate your student support experience

Explaining how you developed and led seminars shows you not only have the skills to engage students but also the passion to support them individually. This is a valuable trait in a first-year experience coordinator.

Highlight your teamwork in orientation events

Working with a large team to welcome thousands of new students shows your ability to collaborate effectively. This experience is key for creating successful orientation programs.

Express your passion for student success

Stating your commitment to creating supportive environments places you as a candidate who understands the deeper goals of the role. This passion is what sets apart good coordinators.

End with a strong call to action

Asking to discuss how your skills align with the program’s needs shows you’re proactive and serious about contributing to student success. It invites the hiring manager to envision you in the role.

New Student Programs Assistant Cover Letter Example

Connect your background to the role.

Mentioning your experience in student leadership directly ties your past work to what's needed in a new student programs assistant. This makes your application more relevant.

Show your mentorship and team-building skills

Detailing your experience as a Fish Camp Counselor highlights your ability to mentor and build trust among new students, which is essential for helping them adapt to college life. This is exactly what we need.

Illustrate your event management experience

Describing your role in planning orientation events showcases your organizational skills and ability to manage logistics, proving you can handle the responsibilities of the job.

Share your motivation and insight

Explaining why you're excited to support new students, especially as a first-generation college student, adds a personal touch that shows your understanding of the challenges they face. This insight is invaluable.

Close with enthusiasm and readiness

Thanking the hiring manager and expressing eagerness to discuss your role shows you're not just interested in the job, but you're ready to make a meaningful impact. This enthusiasm is compelling.

Student Services Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Highlight your understanding of student services.

By mentioning your background as an international school alumna, you effectively establish a personal connection and deep understanding of the international student experience.

Showcase your program management skills

Talking about your role in organizing orientation programs demonstrates your ability to manage significant student services initiatives, a key requirement for a student services coordinator.

Detail your experience in fostering inclusivity

Your efforts in developing cultural competency workshops underline your commitment to creating an inclusive environment, crucial for the student services coordinator role.

Align with the school’s mission

Your excitement to support the school's mission of empowering students reinforces your alignment with their values and your potential as a valuable team member.

End with a call to action

Inviting further discussion about your fit for the role shows initiative and a proactive approach to your career search, traits highly valued in any candidate.

International Student Advisor Cover Letter Example

Show your personal connection to the international student advisor role.

When you share your personal journey of studying abroad and your desire to support international students, it makes your cover letter more relatable and genuine. This personal touch helps us understand why you're not just looking for any job, but you're passionate about this specific role.

Quantify your impact as an advisor

Detailing your achievements with specific numbers, like the 30% increase in student engagement, gives us a clear picture of what you can bring to our team. It's compelling evidence that you have made a significant difference in your previous roles, which suggests you can do the same here.

Highlight your experience with a diverse student body

By mentioning your work with students from over 50 countries, you're showing us that you have valuable cross-cultural communication skills. This is crucial for an international student advisor who needs to understand and support students from various cultural backgrounds.

Connect with the school's mission

Expressing your alignment with our mission to provide a transformative educational experience for international students tells us you've done your homework. It shows that your values align with ours, making you more likely to fit well within our team.

Express eagerness for a follow-up

Closing your letter by inviting further discussion about how your experiences align with our goals demonstrates both your confidence and your genuine interest in the position. It suggests you're not just applying out of necessity, but you're truly excited about the opportunity to contribute to our organization.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

Cover Letters For Jobs Similar To Orientation Leader Roles

• Orientation Leader Cover Letter Guide
• Orientation Team Leader Cover Letter Guide

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• Recruiter Cover Letter Guide
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Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

Letter of Recommendation Examples for College Applicants

Admissions pros highlight what makes a recommendation letter stand out.

College Recommendation Letter Examples

Getty Images | iStockphoto

To help applicants and recommenders know what colleges are looking for in recommendation letters, some schools provide examples on their admissions website.

Recommendation letters can serve as powerful testimonials about a student's accomplishments, and the most effective letters demonstrate a candidate's potential for greatness, according to college admissions officers.

The best person to write a letter of recommendation is someone who knows the applicant well and can describe that person's journey in detail, says Kristen Capezza, vice president of enrollment management and university communications at Adelphi University in New York.

Ask for a recommendation letter from the teacher with whom you have the strongest rapport, Capezza suggests – not just someone who gave you a high grade. "That, to me, makes for a more powerful letter, because it will be more personalized and less generic."

Strong relationships shine through in letters and can help in situations where grades are poor, says Denard Jones, lead college counselor at Empowerly, a college admissions consulting company. Jones previously worked in college admissions at Elon University in North Carolina and Saint Joseph's University in Pennsylvania.

"Some of the best recommendation letters I’ve read over the years actually came from where a student might have had a lower grade than just an A," he says. "The reason being was the teacher knew that student and was able to go through and talk about the time they struggled and how they worked through the processes to overcome mastery of a new subject."

Similar to personal essays , recommendations should add to a student's application rather than repeat information, experts say. Admissions officers want to hear the story behind students to understand them holistically. For example, learning about a creative project a student participated in or the fact that the basketball player also starred in the school musical are examples that provide deep context, Jones says.

To help applicants and recommenders know what colleges are looking for in recommendation letters, some schools provide examples on their admissions website. Arizona State University provides this template , which shows how to format the letter as well as the type of content that should be included.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology also provides a breakdown on how to craft a strong letter, with several example letters and critiques on what makes them effective or ineffective.

College admissions pros also offered U.S. News insights on outstanding recommendation letters they've read during their careers.

Recommendation Letters That Swayed Admissions Officers

Admissions officials note that various types of recommendation letters can help a student's admissions odds. Those include letters that explain difficult personal circumstances, showcase remarkable achievements or reveal a student's personality.

Effective recommendation letters help admissions officers imagine how a student could contribute to their class, Capezza says.

"Reading about stories of perseverance, tales of transformation or simply honest accounts of the student's dedication to learning and the community help me to visualize the student as a future member of our community – and that visualization can be the turning point for a difficult admission decision," Capezza wrote in an email.

Challenges Faced and Overcome

Sometimes recommendation letters explain extenuating circumstances that clarify why a student's academic performance was subpar during a particular period in high school, says Skye Telka, admissions counselor at Sora Schools, a virtual private middle and high school. Telka previously served as a college admissions counselor for Warren Wilson College , a liberal arts school in North Carolina.

For instance, she once received an application from a student who performed exceptionally well in her freshman and sophomore years, but faltered in her junior and senior years.

The letter explained that the student's mother was critically ill, and the student had assumed the responsibility of parenting her own siblings, becoming her family's caregiver. Because of this letter, the Warren Wilson admissions committee accepted the student despite her lackluster grades, Telka says.

She also recalled admitting a student who had struggled in mathematics until eventually being diagnosed with dyscalculia , a learning disorder that affects a person's ability to do math.

"This letter of recommendation was important in not only revealing the student’s intellectual capacity, adaptability, and persistence, but also helped further contextualize their academic journey," Telka wrote in an email. "Especially in light of a global pandemic and some of the knowledge loss or academic irregularities associated with that, a clear and dedicated passion can really win over an admissions committee in the review process. Such passions are weighed heavily when it comes to shaping the incoming class."

This letter example from MIT shows how a school counselor provided context about a student's difficult life outside of school and previous struggles in the classroom.

Jane is an outstanding young woman whose academic record may not fully reflect her ability. Her parents were divorced during her junior year, and, for several years before that, her home situation had been in turmoil with a great deal of fighting between her parents. Her father has an alcohol problem, and Jane certainly endured a great deal of emotional distress. The fact that she has been able to do as well as she has done given the circumstances says a lot about her. Now that the home situation has stabilized, her performance has improved. I believe her senior year grades are a much better reflection of her ability.

The anonymous critique provided on the MIT admissions website says some may wonder if it's appropriate for recommendation letters to include such personal details. It is, the critique explains.

"We appreciate anything that gives us insight and perspective into a student’s performance and the environment," the critique reads. "Comments about problems that a student has experienced will help us understand the context in which they have accomplished whatever they have achieved. The extent to which they have dealt with these problems is useful to know as well."

These types of letters can be particularly valuable in cases where a student is less eager to share the details on their own, Jones says.

Information about a student's difficulties can not only mitigate deficits in an application, but also increase scholarship opportunities, Jones says. He adds that if a recommendation letter is especially compelling, the admissions committee might offer a student a scholarship or a spot in the honors program.

Abilities and Passions

Admissions officers say there are some recommendation letters that convey a student's strong interest in and aptitude for a specific academic discipline. Telka says she was amazed by a recommendation letter for a prospective agriculture student that was written by the student's employer at an apple orchard. The student had worked to revive a nearly extinct heirloom apple variety by planting it in various places.

"Because I had such context of what they had already achieved, it allowed me to reach out to faculty on campus (and) reach out to a couple of endowed scholarship opportunities," Telka says.

Another example from MIT shows a student interested in journalism who took on leadership responsibilities for the school newspaper and yearbook.

As business manager for the paper and co-editor of the yearbook the past two years, Mary has done an outstanding job. She personally brought the town’s business community from the view that the school newspaper was a charitable organization to the realization that the paper is a direct pipeline through which advertisers can reach students. She also took the initiative to set up the advertising rate schedule for the paper that produced enough revenue to expand coverage from a four-page paper, so that it is an eight-page and often twelve-page paper. Her work as photographer for both publications has been equally outstanding.

"Lots of specifics here give us a very clear impression and help us to know why that impression is held," the critique reads. "We have evidence of her newspaper directives and overall character."

When a student says he or she is strongly committed to a specific field or a particular type of community service , it is a plus if that statement is corroborated by a third party in a recommendation letter, Telka says.

It's also helpful when recommendation letters highlight a student's unusual interests. "We like to see nuggets of authenticity and anything that makes the student stand out," she says. "Clubs, extracurricular activities or anything else that makes a student unique. For example, we had one student who founded the juggling club at their high school. That sticks with you."

Strong Character

A recommendation letter may also offer insight into a person's character. Capezza recalls a letter she received about a student in a military family who had moved across the country. Written by a high school counselor , the letter described how the student had adjusted to the various places he moved.

"Throughout it all, the student was able to show upward trajectory in the grades and the types of classes being taken, but it also spoke to the student's ability to adapt to new situations," Capezza says. "No matter how overwhelming and daunting it was, the student was up for a new challenge and really learned to become his own self-advocate, and it was just a story of transformation by way of circumstance."

The following example, provided by college admissions consulting company IvyWise, describes a high-performing student's character.

Ashley’s teachers say she is an organized student who is not afraid to ask questions when she is uncertain about a skill or concept. She also works well in group settings, always making sure all members are actively involved in the work, instead of simply taking over, as many of her similarly high achieving peers are wont to do. She is also extremely goal-oriented; once she sets her mind to completing a task or project, she pursues it in earnest until it is done, regardless of any obstacles that pop up along the way. Far from the ruthless competitor, however, her peers characterize her as a compassionate friend, someone that everyone feels comfortable opening up to.  

This section of the letter "backs up the things the committee will likely see in her other recommendations and essays and provides a qualitative understanding of who she is as a student and a member of a school community," says Carolyn Pippen, master college admissions counselor for IvyWise.

A Strong Introduction and Conclusion Help

Like any piece of writing, it's important for a letter of a recommendation to immediately grab the attention of the reader. Though students don't necessarily have control over how a letter is written, experts say having deep relationships and offering anecdotes can help recommenders craft a more compelling letter.

"Experienced readers glance at the opening and concluding sentences before deciding if the letter is worth reading," he says. "A good anecdote is far more effective than even the most carefully chosen list of adjectives."

Jones provided an example of a teacher's recommendation for a fictitious student that demonstrates this well.

Introduction

One of my professors used to remind us daily of a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Nothing great has ever been accomplished without enthusiasm.” ... Jack epitomizes this quotation because he displays enthusiasm and energy toward everything he commits. Whether it be his intense dedication to academics, his devotion to making sure his customers are happy, his role as a lead in our Future Business Leaders of America club, or his overall school spirit, Jack puts forth every effort to produce the best possible results. He seems to live a fearless life. I have witnessed this first-hand.

The letter goes on to explain how Jack started his own lawn care service as a 10th grader and was managing more than 20 properties by his senior year. It also explains that Jack spent time working alongside his mother at a medical treatment center to help restore a decades-old barn that would help a local farm rebuild its revenue stream.

The conclusion should summarize the letter and tie everything together, Jones says. This example, written from the perspective of a school counselor for the same fictitious student, demonstrates that well, he says.

Jack is well-rounded – academically sound, athletic, and a leader. He has an entrepreneur's outlook, spirit, and risk-taking calculus. Life is more than what's happening for him today or next weekend – he is a strategic, forward thinker who enjoys planning for the future. He wants the next part of his journey to be in an environment where he can stretch himself, try different things, and confidently spread his wings. I am happy to give my full recommendation for admission to Jack Wright!

"A brief summary of the student's accolades will leave the reader with a positive feeling," Jones says.

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Sample Application

PLEASE SEE THE APPLICATION BELOW AS A REFERENCE OR IDEA FOR WHAT YOU COULD INCLUDE IN YOUR APPLICATION . This sample application is an example of the kind of energy and thought that should be put into your Leadership Fellows application.

they/them/their

(555) 555-5555

[email protected]

001 Lynch Hall

HOW DID YOU LEARN ABOUT LEADERSHIP FELLOWS? 

• Campus flyers and tabling
• Email nomination

WHY DO YOU WANT TO BE A MEMBER OF LEADERSHIP FELLOWS? 

I want to be a member of Leadership Fellows so that I can learn skills that will help me in my time at UNC Charlotte now and as a professional once I graduate. I think the skills I learn will be useful when working with other students in the classroom, in my organizations, and in my personal life. I would also like the opportunity to meet other Niners and be able to learn from the other students who will be in the program. 

What is at least one thing you hope to gain from Leadership Fellows (personally and/or professionally)? Share why you chose it.

I would like to gain confidence as a result of Leadership Fellows. I sometimes hesitate in group settings to speak up or share my opinion, and I would like to be better at that. I feel I have what it takes to become a good leader, but I need to work on growing my confidence to step out of my comfort zone more, to speak up more, and to be okay if the group does not like my idea. I think if I grew my confidence I would become more involved on campus and take risks for opportunities that I have not always gone for because I don't think I'll get them. If I can improve my confidence I can become a more engaged and effective leader on campus. 

DESCRIBE 2 OR 3 OF YOUR PERSONAL STRENGTHS.

Three strengths I possess are adaptability, dependability, and honesty. Adaptability– I am able to do well in a variety of settings and groups, and I can always find a way to find my role and to support the group. I also manage obstacles well and I can adjust when something unexpected occurs or changes. I try really hard to be dependable and consistent. When I say I am going to do something, I follow through and I actively work to meet deadlines for everything. I do really well with maintaining my commitments and I pride myself in being someone people can turn to when they need to make sure something gets done. And honesty, I think honest connects to dependability, but I always try to be honest with everyone. If I am asked what I think, I won't lie and I value transparency when working with others as well. 

LIST IN NUMBERED FORMAT ANY ORGANIZATIONS/ACTIVITIES/VOLUNTEER SERVICE IN WHICH YOU PARTICIPATE OR HAVE PARTICIPATED.  INDICATE TIME-FRAME OF MEMBERSHIP OR PARTICIPATION.  INCLUDE ANY LEADERSHIP POSITIONS.:

• 49er Running Club, member (Fall 2022-present) 
• Student Council, Secretary (May 2021-May 2022)

LIST ANY WORK EXPERIENCE:

• UREC, Lifeguard (October 2022-present)
• Coldstone Creamery (Summer 2022)

How to Write a Strong Letter of Recommendation for College

If you’re a college counselor, coach, teacher, or mentor looking to support your college-bound students, chances are you’ve been asked to write a strong letter of recommendation. Stand-out letters of recommendation can give students a serious leg-up during college admissions. According to a 2024 post from Admit Report , college admissions officers will read as many as than 50,000 applications per admission cycle for a given university.

With that much competition, it can take a lot to help your student stand out. So, what catches an admissions officer’s eye? Strong letters of recommendation.

In that same survey, admissions counselors said letters of recommendation were more important to them than a student’s extracurricular activities, AP test scores, or even class rank. That means it’s worth putting a little extra effort into your next letter. Here’s how to write a college letter of recommendation that will blow the admission committee’s socks off. 

Need more help? Check out Going Merry’s high school counselor hub for email templates, how-to’s, and other resources.

Introduction

The introduction is one of the most important parts of your letter. This is your chance to hook the reader and draw them in. Here’s how to ace one common recommendation letter format. 

1. Open with a formal salutation

Your letter of recommendation should begin like any business letter. Keep in mind that, while common, “Dear Sir or Madam,” can feel gendered or outdated. “To Whom It May Concern,” is acceptable but can feel a little impersonal. If you can, find out the name of the admissions director. If you can’t find a direct contact, simply address your letter to “Dear Admissions Counselor.” Be sure to type on your official letterhead to give your letter an even more professional look.  

2. Introduce the student 

Start your first paragraph with a sentence or two explaining how long you’ve known the student and in what capacity. Were you their baseball coach, English teacher, or high school counselor ? Explain how you met. If possible, use a little descriptive detail to bring this anecdote to life, and mention your first impressions of the student. It’s usually standard to use the student’s first and last name upon first mention, then refer to them by their first name going forward.

3. Establish a personal connection 

Next, add a sentence or two demonstrating your connection to the student. This is one of the most crucial parts of writing a strong college letter of recommendation. Admissions officers are looking for endorsements from people who really know the candidate well. If you don’t have a personal connection to the student that goes beyond simply being their teacher or counselor, that’s okay. Remember, you can always say no and encourage them to ask someone else to write their letter instead.

One of the best ways to establish this connection and help a student stand out is to tell a memorable story that illustrates their character. Include an example of a time when their qualities or skills really shone. Maybe this is a story about how they stepped up in a leadership position, reacted well in a moment of success or failure, or went out of their way to help another student. Make sure it’s specific and personalized.

Use this section to paint a picture of this young person and explain what makes them stand out. 

1. Highlight the student’s achievements  

Use the next paragraph to mention the student’s top accomplishments. Keep in mind that the admissions officer will already have the student’s resume and GPA in front of them, so don’t waste time listing a bunch of achievements. 

Instead, mention a specific example or short anecdote that might add color to a prominent resume item. For example, the admissions officer probably already knows that your student is a varsity basketball player or a debate team captain. But if this is the hardest-working student-athlete you’ve ever coached or the most brilliant debater the school has ever seen, that’s worth a mention.

Another tip: While it can be helpful to use a letter template , try to avoid using the same formula for every student on your list. College admissions officers are often assigned to a particular region. That means the same person will likely end up reading the same high school teachers’ or counselors’ letters year after year. If your letters are practically the same for each student, the admissions officer will notice.

2. Speak to the student’s character 

Now that you’ve mentioned a student’s successes, it’s time to explain what personal qualities led to such success. Try to make this part of the letter flow naturally from the previous section. 

This is your chance to talk about the student’s hard work, magnetic personality, or aptitude for learning. That said, it’s best to avoid generic statements and clichés . The phrases “great work ethic,” and “strong team spirit” show up on thousands of letters each year. Instead, use concrete examples and descriptive detail to bring your student’s character traits to life. 

Instead of “He’s thoughtful,” say “He’s capable of discussing even the most complex topics with humility and nuance.” Instead of “She’s intellectually curious,” say, “She thinks like a scientist, and over the last four years, she’s turned in such thoughtful lab assessments that sometimes I worried she was teaching me more than I was teaching her.” It’s that kind of vivid description and personalization that catches the attention of college admissions counselors. 

Also be mindful of racial biases and gender biases in letter writing . If you’re not mindful, these unconscious biases can sneak into your letter and negatively color the admissions officer’s view of your student.

3. Provide context 

Praise doesn’t mean much without context. Be sure to benchmark your student’s achievements against those of their peers. This kind of context gives college admissions counselors a better understanding of the student’s abilities. It will be easier for them to make admissions decisions when they can clearly evaluate a student’s performance relative to others. 

So, for example, a weak recommendation letter might state that a student “writes well and participates often in class.” A strong recommendation letter might say something like, “I’ve taught more than 2,000 students in my time as an educator and I’ve never met someone with such a knack for the written word. Many young people struggle to describe their inner world in vivid detail, but Henry succeeded in capturing both me and his classmates with his thoughtful, relatable prose.”

Your final paragraph is your chance to remind your reader why this student is so unique and deserving of a spot at this particular school. Be sure to follow these general guidelines:  

1. End on a positive note 

Your final paragraph should provide a brief summary of your recommendation so far and express why you believe so strongly in this particular student’s likelihood of success. It’s standard to include your contact information in the conclusion in case the admissions office has any further questions for you. This could include your email or office phone number — whatever you’re comfortable providing.   

2. Use a formal closing

As with your opening, the closing of your letter should be professional and businesslike. “Best Regards,” is a common closing, though “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” will also work.

Guidelines to follow as you write 

Writing a strong letter of recommendation isn’t just about what you write – it’s how you write, too. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind.

• Keep it relatively brief: The audience you’re writing for has to evaluate countless recommendation letters just like the one you’re writing. Be respectful of their time and try to keep your letter to around one page in length.
• Be honest and balanced : While it’s important to emphasize the student’s positive qualities, it’s just important to be honest and balanced in your assessment. Avoid exaggerations or misleading statements.
• Tailor the recommendation to the college: Do some research on the colleges the student is applying to and customize your letter accordingly. Highlight traits or experiences that align with the particular college’s values or programs. This shows that you’ve taken the time to understand the student’s goals and aspirations.
• Avoid cliches: Steer clear of overused phrases and generic statements. Instead, provide original and thoughtful insights about the student.
• Use professional language and tone : The admissions process is serious business. Maintain a professional tone throughout the letter and use appropriate language. Avoid slang or informal expressions.
• Proofread and edit : Take the time to review and edit your letter carefully. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that the letter flows smoothly and is well-organized. Consider asking a colleague to proofread it when you’re done.
• Follow the guidelines : If the college or university provides specific guidelines or requirements for the letter of recommendation, make sure to follow them closely. This may include details on formatting, submission methods, or specific questions to address.
• Give yourself enough time to write: Writing a college letter of recommendation can take hours, days, or weeks depending on who you are and your relationship to the student. Give yourself plenty of time to sit down, write a draft, and revisit it to make sure it’s polished enough to submit. 

Support your students with Going Merry 

Letters of recommendation are one of the most critical parts of the college application process . That’s because the rest of a college application is pretty dry. Grades and ACT scores only say so much about a person, and colleges want to see more than just academic performance. 

The best students are born leaders with courage, drive, and personality. A good letter can bring your student to life for an admissions committee and even help sway their decision. 

As a high school counselor, you may write dozens — if not hundreds — of recommendation letters each year. Fortunately, Going Merry can help take the busywork off your plate so you focus on what matters. 

With Going Merry’s high school counselor resource hub, you can find everything from free email templates and financial aid lesson plans, to thousands of scholarships sorted by amount, location, and eligibility requirements. Sign up now or schedule a demo to find out how Going Merry can streamline your workflow. 

Disclaimer: This blog post provides personal finance educational information, and it is not intended to provide legal, financial, or tax advice.

• Recent Posts

• How to Write a Strong Letter of Recommendation for College - April 30, 2024
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Team Leader cover letter examples

You’re confident, charismatic, honest and passionate; you’re everything they want in a team leader. But can you prove it?

You need to effectively showcase these skills on your application, being sure to give real examples to make your case, and we can show you how to do that.

Check out our top tips below, complete with team leader cover letter examples to guide you.

CV templates 

Team Leader cover letter example 1

Team Leader cover letter example 2

Team Leader cover letter example 3

These 3 Team Leader cover letter example s should provide you with a good steer on how to write your own cover letter, and the general structure to follow.

Our simple step-by-step guide below provides some more detailed advice on how you can craft a winning cover letter for yourself, that will ensure your CV gets opened.

How to write a Team Leader cover letter

Here’s a simple process to write your own interview-winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When writing your Team Leader cover letter, it’s best to type the content into the body of your email (or the job site messaging system) and not to attach the cover letter as a separate document.

This ensures that your cover letter gets seen as soon as a recruiter or employer opens your message.

If you attach the cover letter as a document, you’re making the reader go through an unnecessary step of opening the document before reading it.

If it’s in the body of the message itself, it will be seen instantly, which hugely increases the chances of it being read.

Start with a friendly greeting

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Now that you have warmed the recruiter up with a friendly greeting, firstly you need to let them know which role you are applying for.

Sometimes a recruitment consultant will be juggling 10 or 10 vacancies, so it’s important to specify which one you are applying to.

Give us much detail as possible (team/department, role title etc.) and paste in the reference number if you have one.

Here are some examples you can use.

• I am interested in applying for the role of Team Leader with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 40f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for an IT project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.

Sign off professionally

To round of your cover letter, add a professional signature to the bottom, giving recruiters your vital contact information.

This not only gives various means of contacting you, it also looks really professional and shows that you know how to communicate in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Gerald Baker Senior Accountant 07887500404 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application email, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Team Leader cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Team Leader cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Team Leader cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Team Leader cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Good morning, Cathy

I am writing to indicate my keen interest in the Customer Service Team Lead position at Paddy Power. With a strong in motivating teams to deliver exceptional experiences, I am confident in my ability to contribute significantly to your organisation.

Throughout my 9 years of experience in customer service leadership, I have honed my skills in team management, process improvement, and client satisfaction. My passion for fostering positive interactions and my commitment to staff development have ensured that I consistently achieve outstanding results.

In my current role as a Customer Service Team Leader at Sodexo, I delivered trainings which supported reps towards improving first-call resolution rates by 20%, as well as boosted productivity levels by 15% through fostering a culture of collaboration with sales and product development departments. I also swiftly identified root causes, which led to a 25% reduction in escalated complaints within three months.

If you require any additional information, please feel free to contact me via email or by phone. Thank you for consideration.

Kind regards

George Mills

Hello Naomi

Given Slug & Lettuce’s reputation as a prominent pub and social café, I am writing to indicate my keen interest in the available Front of House Team Leader vacancy, which has been advertised on Glassdoor.

With a passion for hospitality, a proven ability to guide high-performing personnel, and a commitment to delivering exceptional patron experiences, I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise to elevate the standard of service at your respected establishment.

Throughout the past 10 years at Premier Inn, I have effectively managed restaurant staff members, promoted interactive collaboration and supportive work environment, as well as streamlined processes to ensure smooth service flow. I also played a pivotal role in streamlining seating arrangements and service processes, which led to a 15% increase in table turnover rate, while maximising capacity during peak hours. In addition, I improved productivity by 35% through implementing a performance tracking system and offering targeted coaching.

I look forward to discussing how my skills and knowledge make me the perfect fit for the position. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Brian Hunter

I am thrilled to apply for the Help Desk Team Leader position at Atalian Servest. With a strong background in IT support and a track record of leading high-performing help desk teams, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my expertise to elevate the level of technical guidance provided by your esteemed company.

Throughout my 11 years of experience in IT support and team management, I have demonstrated my ability to lead by example, motivate personnel, and deliver exceptional service to users. As a Help Desk Team Leader at Adria Solutions Ltd, with a BSc in Computer Science, I have consistently achieved SLA targets and maintained a strong focus on customer satisfaction leveraging a customer centric approach which increased CSAT scores by 10%. I also established professional development initiatives which augmented team performance by 25% and reduced incident resolution time by 20% within a 2-year period.

I am eager to discuss how my experience and competencies can contribute to the continued success of your department and look forward to attending an interview. Thank you for your consideration.

Harvey Henderson

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Team Leader job, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!