writing a cover letter for a job not advertised

Written Samples

15 sample cover letters for unadvertised jobs.

Uncovering the hidden job market can be a game-changer in your job search.

Many positions are filled without ever being publicly advertised, leaving savvy job seekers with a golden opportunity to stand out from the crowd.

Sample Cover Letters for Unadvertised Jobs

The key to tapping into this treasure trove of unadvertised roles is a well-crafted cover letter that showcases your unique value proposition and demonstrates your genuine interest in the company.

In this article, we present 15 sample cover letters designed to help you make a lasting impression and secure your dream job, even when it’s not openly advertised.

Sample Cover Letter 1

Subject: Experienced Marketing Manager Seeking New Challenges

Dear [Hiring Manager],

As a seasoned marketing professional with over a decade of experience in brand management and digital marketing, I am excited to express my interest in joining your esteemed organization. Throughout my career, I have consistently delivered innovative marketing strategies that have driven brand awareness, increased customer engagement, and boosted revenue growth.

My expertise spans various facets of marketing, including market research, content creation, social media management, and data analytics. I am particularly skilled in developing and executing integrated marketing campaigns that leverage multiple channels to reach target audiences effectively.

I am drawn to your company’s reputation for excellence and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation. I believe my skills and experience align perfectly with your organization’s values and goals, and I am confident that I can contribute significantly to your marketing efforts.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my expertise can help elevate your brand and drive business growth. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your dynamic team.

[Your Name]

Sample Cover Letter 2

Subject: Accomplished Sales Professional Seeks New Opportunity

With a proven track record of exceeding sales targets and building long-lasting client relationships, I am writing to express my strong interest in joining your sales team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to identify new business opportunities, negotiate complex deals, and drive revenue growth.

My experience spans various industries, including [relevant industries], where I have honed my skills in consultative selling, account management, and client retention. I am adept at understanding clients’ unique needs and tailoring solutions that address their pain points effectively.

I am particularly drawn to your company’s stellar reputation in the industry and its commitment to delivering exceptional customer service. I believe my customer-centric approach aligns perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your continued success.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help expand your client base and drive sales growth. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your high-performing sales team.

Best regards,

Sample Cover Letter 3

Subject: Experienced Software Engineer Seeking New Challenge

As a passionate software engineer with over [number] years of experience in developing robust and scalable applications, I am excited to express my interest in joining your innovative technology company. Throughout my career, I have consistently delivered high-quality software solutions that have enhanced user experiences and driven business success.

My expertise spans various programming languages and frameworks, including [relevant languages/frameworks], and I have a proven track record of collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and within budget. I am particularly skilled in [specific areas of expertise], and I am always eager to learn and adopt new technologies to stay at the forefront of the industry.

I am drawn to your company’s reputation for innovation and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with technology. I believe my skills and experience align perfectly with your organization’s mission, and I am confident that I can contribute significantly to your development efforts.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my expertise can help drive your company’s technology initiatives forward. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your talented team.

Sample Cover Letter 4

Subject: Experienced Financial Analyst Seeks New Opportunity

With a strong background in financial analysis and a proven track record of driving data-driven decision-making, I am writing to express my keen interest in joining your finance team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to analyze complex financial data, develop accurate forecasts, and provide strategic recommendations that have helped organizations optimize their financial performance.

My experience spans various industries, including [relevant industries], where I have honed my skills in financial modeling, budgeting, and risk assessment. I am adept at collaborating with cross-functional teams to identify cost-saving opportunities and implement effective financial strategies.

I am particularly drawn to your company’s strong financial position and its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of fiscal responsibility. I believe my analytical mindset and attention to detail align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your continued financial success.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help support your financial goals and drive long-term growth. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your highly respected finance team.

Sample Cover Letter 5

Subject: Experienced HR Professional Seeking New Challenge

As a seasoned human resources professional with over [number] years of experience in talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development, I am excited to express my interest in joining your HR team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to develop and implement effective HR strategies that have enhanced employee engagement, improved retention, and supported business objectives.

My expertise spans various facets of HR, including recruiting, onboarding, performance management, and employee training and development. I am particularly skilled in fostering positive employee relations and creating inclusive work environments that promote diversity, equity, and belonging.

I am drawn to your company’s reputation as an employer of choice and its commitment to investing in its people. I believe my people-centric approach and passion for employee development align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am confident that I can contribute significantly to your HR initiatives.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my expertise can help support your talent management strategies and drive organizational success. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your dedicated HR team.

Sample Cover Letter 6

Subject: Experienced Project Manager Seeks New Opportunity

With a proven track record of successfully leading complex projects from inception to completion, I am writing to express my strong interest in joining your project management team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to plan, execute, and deliver projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

My experience spans various industries, including [relevant industries], where I have honed my skills in project planning, risk management, stakeholder communication, and team leadership. I am adept at collaborating with cross-functional teams to identify project goals, develop comprehensive project plans, and ensure successful project outcomes.

I am particularly drawn to your company’s reputation for excellence in project delivery and its commitment to continuous improvement. I believe my results-oriented approach and attention to detail align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your continued success.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help drive your projects to success and support your organizational goals. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your high-performing project management team.

Sample Cover Letter 7

Subject: Experienced Graphic Designer Seeking New Challenge

As a creative and versatile graphic designer with over [number] years of experience in developing visually compelling designs across various media, I am excited to express my interest in joining your design team. Throughout my career, I have consistently delivered innovative design solutions that have enhanced brand identities, engaged target audiences, and supported marketing objectives.

My expertise spans various areas of graphic design, including branding, print design, digital design, and packaging. I am particularly skilled in using Adobe Creative Suite to create visually appealing designs that effectively communicate brand messages and resonate with target audiences.

I am drawn to your company’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of creativity and its commitment to delivering exceptional design work. I believe my passion for design and ability to think outside the box align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am confident that I can contribute significantly to your design efforts.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help elevate your brand and support your marketing initiatives. Please find attached my resume and portfolio for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your talented design team.

Sample Cover Letter 8

Subject: Experienced Customer Service Representative Seeks New Opportunity

With a strong track record of delivering exceptional customer service and resolving complex customer issues, I am writing to express my keen interest in joining your customer service team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to build positive relationships with customers, effectively communicate solutions, and go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction.

My experience spans various industries, including [relevant industries], where I have honed my skills in active listening, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. I am adept at handling high-volume customer inquiries across multiple channels, including phone, email, and live chat while maintaining a professional and empathetic demeanor.

I am particularly drawn to your company’s reputation for providing outstanding customer service and its commitment to putting customers first. I believe my customer-centric approach and passion for helping others align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your continued success.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help support your customer service goals and enhance the overall customer experience. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your dedicated customer service team.

Sample Cover Letter 9

Subject: Experienced Data Analyst Seeking New Challenge

As a data-driven professional with over [number] years of experience in leveraging data to drive business decisions, I am excited to express my interest in joining your data analytics team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret complex data sets, and provide actionable insights that have helped organizations optimize their operations and improve their bottom line.

My expertise spans various areas of data analytics, including data mining, statistical analysis, data visualization, and predictive modeling. I am particularly skilled in using tools such as [relevant tools/software] to uncover meaningful patterns and trends in data and communicate findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

I am drawn to your company’s reputation for being a data-driven organization and its commitment to leveraging data to drive innovation and growth. I believe my analytical mindset and passion for turning data into insights align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am confident that I can contribute significantly to your data analytics efforts.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help support your data-driven initiatives and drive business success. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your talented data analytics team.

Sample Cover Letter 10

Subject: Experienced Content Writer Seeks New Opportunity

With a proven track record of creating compelling and engaging content across various platforms, I am writing to express my strong interest in joining your content creation team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to develop content strategies, write captivating copy, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver content that resonates with target audiences and supports business objectives.

My experience spans various industries, including [relevant industries], where I have honed my skills in copywriting, editing, content marketing, and SEO. I am adept at adapting my writing style to suit different audiences and platforms, and I have a keen eye for detail and a commitment to producing high-quality content.

I am particularly drawn to your company’s reputation for creating innovative and impactful content and its commitment to storytelling. I believe my creative mindset and passion for crafting compelling narratives align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your continued success.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help elevate your brand and support your content marketing efforts. Please find attached my resume and writing samples for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your talented content creation team.

Sample Cover Letter 11

Subject: Experienced Event Planner Seeking New Challenge

As a highly organized and creative event planner with over [number] years of experience in planning and executing successful events, I am excited to express my interest in joining your event management team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to conceptualize, plan, and deliver events that exceed client expectations and create memorable experiences for attendees.

My expertise spans various types of events, including conferences, product launches, corporate meetings, and social events. I am particularly skilled in managing event logistics, negotiating with vendors, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless event execution.

I am drawn to your company’s reputation for producing high-profile and innovative events and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the events industry. I believe my attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and passion for creating unforgettable experiences align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am confident that I can contribute significantly to your event planning efforts.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help bring your event vision to life and support your business objectives. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your talented event management team.

Sample Cover Letter 12

Subject: Experienced Social Media Manager Seeks New Opportunity

With a strong track record of developing and executing successful social media strategies, I am writing to express my keen interest in joining your social media team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to grow my social media presence, engage target audiences, and leverage social platforms to support marketing objectives and drive business growth.

My experience spans various industries, including [relevant industries], where I have honed my skills in social media management, content creation, community management, and social media analytics. I am adept at using social media tools and platforms to monitor trends, analyze performance metrics, and optimize social media campaigns for maximum impact.

I am particularly drawn to your company’s strong social media presence and its commitment to using social platforms to build meaningful connections with customers. I believe my creative approach to social media and passion for building engaged communities align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your continued success.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help elevate your brand on social media and support your digital marketing efforts. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your dedicated social media team.

Sample Cover Letter 13

Subject: Experienced Accountant Seeking New Challenge

As a detail-oriented and highly analytical accountant with over [number] years of experience in financial reporting, budgeting, and auditing, I am excited to express my interest in joining your accounting team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to maintain accurate financial records, ensure compliance with accounting standards, and provide valuable insights to support financial decision-making.

My expertise spans various areas of accounting, including general ledger management, financial statement preparation, tax compliance, and cost accounting. I am particularly skilled in using accounting software such as [relevant software] to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and ensure data accuracy.

I am drawn to your company’s reputation for maintaining the highest standards of financial integrity and its commitment to providing accurate and timely financial information. I believe my strong work ethic, attention to detail, and passion for numbers align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am confident that I can contribute significantly to your accounting efforts.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help support your financial operations and contribute to your organization’s success. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your respected accounting team.

Sample Cover Letter 14

Subject: Experienced Operations Manager Seeks New Opportunity

With a proven track record of optimizing operations, driving process improvements, and leading cross-functional teams, I am writing to express my strong interest in joining your operations team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to analyze operational processes, identify areas for improvement, and implement solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall performance.

My experience spans various industries, including [relevant industries], where I have honed my skills in operations management, supply chain optimization, inventory management, and project management. I am adept at collaborating with stakeholders across different functions to align operational strategies with business objectives and drive continuous improvement.

I am particularly drawn to your company’s commitment to operational excellence and its focus on delivering high-quality products and services to customers. I believe my strategic mindset, problem-solving skills, and passion for driving results align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your continued success.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help optimize your operations and support your business goals. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your high-performing operations team.

Sample Cover Letter 15

Subject: Experienced Business Development Manager Seeking New Challenge

As a results-driven business development professional with over [number] years of experience in identifying new business opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and driving revenue growth, I am excited to express my interest in joining your business development team. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to develop and execute effective business development strategies that have expanded market share, increased customer acquisition, and boosted profitability.

My expertise spans various industries, including [relevant industries], where I have honed my skills in market research, lead generation, relationship building, and contract negotiation. I am particularly skilled in identifying untapped market opportunities, developing compelling value propositions, and closing complex deals.

I am drawn to your company’s reputation for innovation and its commitment to driving sustainable business growth. I believe my strategic thinking, persuasive communication skills, and passion for building long-term partnerships align perfectly with your organization’s values, and I am confident that I can contribute significantly to your business development efforts.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can help drive your business growth and support your strategic objectives. Please find attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your dynamic business development team.

A well-written cover letter is a powerful tool for tapping into the hidden job market and securing your dream role, even when it’s not openly advertised.

By showcasing your unique value proposition, demonstrating your genuine interest in the company, and aligning your skills and experience with the organization’s needs, you can make a lasting impression on hiring managers and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Use these 15 sample cover letters as inspiration to craft your compelling message and take your job search to the next level.

• Career Blog

How to apply for unadvertised jobs: the cover letter that opens doors

Found your perfect company but they are not currently hiring? Apply for unadvertised jobs with this cover letter so you can land your dream role.

When you find that rare company that you really want to work for its a big deal. Whether it is perfect for your first big break or its the ideal organisation to take you up that next rung in your career, the right company can ignite a passion for your future and motivate you to be the best you can be.

But this can all come crashing down when you find that all their positions are filled and there are no current job openings.

So what should you do about this? Sit tight and wait for a position to come available or something else?

In this post we will explore that ‘something else’ you need to do – plus how to make it happen.

Let’s start by tackling the first big question.

Is it worth your time reaching out to an organisation when they don't have any job postings?

The answer to this is a resounding yes and there are three main reasons for this.

Most positions aren’t advertised

It is estimated that 70% of positions are never advertised . This may seem hard to believe at first but when you think a little deeper it becomes obvious why this is the case.

To the outside world it may look like there are no opportunities within a company if their vacancies page is empty but on the inside any or all of these things will actually be happening.

• People are taking retirement or resigning due to factors such as taking a new job elsewhere, moving to another location, or making a career change.
• Some will unfortunately be struggling with their role and are about to lose their job or be deployed elsewhere in the organisation.
• Others will be flying high and are about to be promoted, leaving a gap to be filled behind them.
• Then there is organisational change that will involve recruitment such as new projects and business being won, products ready to be taken to market, services that need developing, or restructuring of departments and or teams.

Can you see how a timely application from a qualified candidate could be warmly welcomed, eliminating the need to advertise or instruct recruitment consultants and pay their high fees? 

There’s far less competition when you apply for unadvertised jobs

Despite the fact that most jobs never get advertised, most people don’t send speculative applications to companies.

Think about that for a minute.

Your application could be the only one or just one of a handful for a particular opening.

You won’t get lost in the crowd and you will have a much better chance of being considered in the absence of high competition.

You can bypass Applicant Tracking Systems

Most advertised positions will involve adding your details to a company’s Applicant Tracking System.

Whilst these are necessary due to the high volume of applications companies receive today, they can cause serious issues for both the jobseeker and the employer.

Jobseekers need to ensure they submit an ATS friendly resume so they don’t get rejected. If they don’t, employers and recruiters can miss out the best talent just because of design issues.

A speculative application bypasses this and gets straight to the decision makers instead.

Before you rush off though and start reaching out to loads of companies directly, I do have a word of caution.

Don’t apply for unadvertised jobs until you have done this

Whilst a timely application from a qualified candidate will be warmly welcomed, the reverse is also true.

Sending out generic approaches with little thought or research will not get the results that you want and will definitely work against  you.

At best you will be ignored but at worst, they may get irritated which will not help you when there is an advertised vacancy in the future.

Remember, you’re being proactive and trying to ‘sell yourself’ to the company.

To do this effectively you will need to have a good understanding of what the company needs now and provide an answer for a problem they might not currently have (or know they have), but are likely to have in the future.

This all comes down to putting in some research.  Check out their company website, their LinkedIn page, and set up Google alerts for their latest press releases. And don’t forget to reach out to your contacts that may have inside knowledge or even better, a name of someone that could be a mutual acquaintance.

Once you have completed your research, you will be ready to put your killer cover letter together.

The 7 sentence cover letter to use when you apply for unadvertised jobs

The trick to getting this right is having a great balance between selling yourself and using the right tone.

This can be achieved if you follow this formula.

Start with why you are writing to them

These are busy people so you need to get straight to the point to enable them to speed read your application.

Tell them why you want to work specifically for their company 

You need to let them know that you are not desperately sending your resume out to ‘anyone that will have you. ’

“The reasons I want to work here are…” This is where your research is crucial because it proves that you are serious about their company.

Explain what you can offer and why you’re a great fit.

"I offer X years of experience in this particular industry/sector, performing these particular jobs which makes me a great fit to support your organisation and the products/services it delivers."

Give a significant relevant achievement

Be careful to keep this relevant. It doesn't matter how impressive an achievement is, it will have little impact if they can’t see how it could benefit their organisation.

“In particular, one of my biggest achievements to date has been ….. [explain] and I would relish the opportunity to deliver the same results for [their company name].

Point them to your resume

“To gain a quick overview of what my contribution could be, please take a look at my profile on my attached resume.”

You are telling them that your resume has a profile they can speed read plus it will make them curious to take a look.

Add a call to action

“I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you about any current or upcoming positions that may be a great fit for my experience.”

Thank them 

“Thank you for your time and consideration and I look forward to talking with you soon.”

Cover letter sample for how to apply to a company when they are not hiring

So what does this look like in practice then?

To help you put yours together, here is an example of what this looks like as a complete cover letter.

This is based on a Project Manager but you can see how easy it is to adapt to any industry or skill set.

Dear [hiring manager/recruiter’s name]  - you will have gleaned this from your research.

I am writing to enquire about any potential opportunities at [company name] that may fit my skills and experience.

The reason for contacting you specifically is that my research showed that you mainly deal with X projects, which is my main area of interest and expertise.

I offer [insert number of years] years of experience within [name your industry/sector] underpinned by [name specific skills or qualifications].

For example, one of my biggest achievements to date has been the X project where I successfully ….. [explain] and I would relish the opportunity to deliver the same results for [their company name].

To gain a quick overview of what my contribution could be, please take a look at the profile on my attached resume.

I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you about any current or upcoming positions that I could make a positive contribution to.

I appreciate how busy you must be so thank you so much for your time and consideration and I look forward to talking with you soon.

Key Takeaways

Companies are constantly recruiting but typically just a few positions actually make it out on to their career pages or get promoted on job sites.

This means that it is a great idea to reach out to potential employers and apply for unadvertised jobs.

However, you must put in the research so that you can explain why you want to work for them and why you would be a great fit, otherwise you may come across as looking desperate.

If you use this cover letter formula, they will want to snap you up before their competition gets the chance to hire you

About the Author

Mark Daniel

A global resume writer and career coach, Mark is known for his honest, direct, and hard-hitting advice, helping people manage job applications and succeed at interviews. Now based on the Sunshine Coast in Australia, he is the co-founder of Real Life Career Advice and a prolific publisher, contributing to several industry magazines and his daily career advice blog to his 45,000 LinkedIn followers.

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• Career Planning
• Finding a Job
• Cover Letters

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Unadvertised Job

Job Application Letter Sample and Writing Tips for a Role That's Not Advertised

• Tips for Writing Your Cover Letter

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

• Cover Letter Example and Template

Proofread Your Documents

How to send your letter.

• How to Send Your Resume

Shapecharge / E+ / Getty Images

How do you write a job application letter for a role that isn't listed? Not all companies advertise job openings. Some companies get plenty of applicants without advertising. Other companies may not be in hiring mode but will consider applications from qualified candidates if they anticipate an opening in the near future.

Sending a resume and cover letter to an employer, even though you aren't sure if there are available jobs, is a way to get your candidacy noticed. It may also get you advance consideration for positions that have just opened up. If you have the skills the company needs, it may even get you considered for a brand-new position.

When you know an employer has an opening, don't hesitate to apply.

If you have a company you'd love to work for , consider taking the time to reach out and connect regardless of whether the organization is currently hiring.

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter for an Unadvertised Job

What's the best way to apply for unadvertised job openings? It depends on whether you know there is a position available, but the company hasn't listed it, or if there's a company you want to work for and you don't know if there are open jobs.

Kelly Miller / The Balance

When You Know There Is a Job Opening

If you know the company is hiring but hasn't advertised the position, write a traditional   cover letter  expressing your interest in the open position at the company. Be sure to specifically relate your qualifications for the job.

When You Don't Know If the Company Is Hiring

Writing a cover letter for an unadvertised opening (also known as a   cold contact cover letter  or  letter of interest ) is a little different than writing a cover letter for a job that you know is available.

With this type of letter, you will need to make a strong pitch for yourself and how you can help the company. Below are some tips on how to write a cover letter for an unadvertised opening.

• Mention your contacts.  If you know someone at the organization, mention this at the beginning of the cover letter. Having a contact at the company is a great way to get your foot in the door, even if the company isn’t actively hiring.
• Use paper or email.  You can send your letter via paper or  email . Sending an old-fashioned paper letter works well  for this type of letter , because it may have a better chance of being read than an email, which could be deleted without even being opened.
• Include a resume.  Whether you send your cover letter via paper or email, be sure to include a copy of your resume. Make sure you  tailor your resume  to the company and type of job you are looking for.

Below is detailed information on what to include in your cover letter, along with links to example cover letters.

Your Contact Information Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email Address

• Cover Letter Contact Section Examples

Greeting If you can find a contact person at the company, direct your letter or email message to them. Here's how to find  contacts at companies .

If you can't locate a contact person, address your letter to "Dear Hiring Manager" or leave out this section and start with the first  paragraph  of your letter.

• Cover Letter Greeting Examples

Body of Cover Letter The goal of your letter is to get noticed as a prospective employee even if the company isn't hiring immediately. Your letter should explain the reason for your interest in the organization, identify your most relevant skills or experiences, and explain why you would be an asset to the company.

First Paragraph: The first paragraph of your letter should include information on why you are writing. If you know someone at the company, mention it now. Be specific as to why you are interested in this particular company.

Middle Paragraph(s): The next section of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer. Again, be specific as to how you can help the organization.

Final Paragraph:  Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering you for employment.

• What to Include in the Body Section of a Cover Letter

Closing Best Regards,  (or choose another closing from the examples below)

• Cover Letter Closing Examples

Signature Handwritten Signature  (for a mailed letter)

Typed Signature When you are   sending an email letter,  be sure to include all your contact information in your signature.

• Signature Examples

Cover Letter Example for a Job That's Not Advertised

You can use this sample as a model to write a cover letter. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.

Cover Letter for a Job That's Not Advertised (Text Version)

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

Contact Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. LastName,

As an Information Technology professional with high-level management experience in the IT industry, I learned that the best way to achieve success was to motivate the resources I had with well-defined objectives and empowerment.

A management belief based on integrity, quality, and service, along with a positive attitude, an aptitude for strategic thought and planning, and the ability to adapt quickly to new ideas and situations allows me to achieve consistent and significant successes in multiple industries.

My personality profile says:

• A confident, driven individual who reacts quickly to change.
• A self-starter with a strong sense of urgency who responds positively to challenge and pressure.
• A fast learner who is a practical and ingenious problem solver.
• A fluent and articulate communicator, flexible and responsive. A self-directed, goal-oriented doer.

My former managers say:

"The Information Technology Analysis will serve as a guideline for making positive contributions... Your management style provided a footprint for younger members of our organization... a very positive impression of the contributions you made to our business and its growth." Gregory Hines, President and CEO, Information Data Technology.

"The most important source of growth in our data technology business ... able to focus the team and manage the product to a successful introduction ... due in large part to his own personal commitment ... excellent IT project management and operational management skills." Pauline Hallenback, CTO at Information Systems.

"Your strengths as a manager are many and varied... all issues are confronted in a timely manner ... management by objectives comes as a second nature to you." Jackson Brownell, Director of Operations, Denver Technologies.

ABC Company is a company that would provide me with the opportunity to put my personality, skills, and successes to work. At a personal meeting, I would like to discuss with you how I will contribute to the continued growth of your company.

Best regards,

Carefully proofread both your resume and cover letter before you send them. Here are proofreading tips for job seekers.

When sending your letter via email, write your letter in the email message and attach your resume to the message. In the subject line, put your name and the reason for writing (Your Name - Introduction).

• Email Subject Lines

How to Send Your Resume With Your Cover Letter

Here's how to send your resume with your cover letter:

• How to Email Your Resume
• How to Send Your Resume as an Attachment
• How to Mail a Resume and Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Take initiative. Not all companies immediately advertise opening positions. Taking the initiative to send a cover letter of introduction “on spec” may garner you an interview for either an existing or a newly developed job role.

Apply to your dream company. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. If there is a company you’ve always wanted to work for, reach out to their hiring department with a strategic letter that presents your qualifications and interest in their organization.

Build upon your contacts. A good way to get your foot into the door at a company is to begin your letter of introduction by mentioning the contacts you know who work there. Take this to the next level by proactively asking these contacts—before you send your cover letter—if they would be willing to put in a good word on your behalf with their employer. 

How to Write a Cover Letter to a Company That Does Not Have a Job Opening

Just because a company does not have a published job opening, don't let it dissuade you from job hunting. You may submit a letter at just the right time, or you could have skills that are so uniquely aligned with the business that they will want to find a place for you. As with any job-seeking process, your letter of introduction should be professional, succinct and persuasive.

Search the Company Website

Check out the company website and look for a tab called careers, job openings or employment. Even if you have been screened by the receptionist, there might be online job postings she isn't aware of. There is also the potential that you will come across an available position that is close to what you are looking for, which could give you a foot in the interview door. If you still don't find any openings, read through the company's "about us" page to learn more about its mission, products, services and internal structure. Search for the department you are most interested in. If there is a manager or director you can pinpoint, you will know who to send your letter of interest.

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How to write a first-class cover letter, how to write a simple application cover letter, how to write a letter to reject an interview, how to write a cover letter to "to whom it may concern", how to briefly describe the type of career opportunity you are seeking, frame your letter in broad terms.

When a company does not have any advertised openings, draft your letter of interest using broad strokes. For example, if you are interested in the company's marketing department, don't limit yourself by saying, "I'm looking for a job as a senior public-relations specialist." Instead, focus on your unique skill set to pique their interest.

I am interested in joining your marketing department where my 10 years of marketing and advertising agency experience will be an asset. I have a track record of developing award-winning corporate PR campaigns and specialized experience in promotions for the entertainment industry for which your company is renowned.

Describe Why You Like the Company

When you are pitching yourself for a job at a company that has no openings, it's vital that you explain in detail why you would like to work for the company. Be as specific as possible to show your enthusiasm and knowledge of the organization.

I have admired this company since the launch of your rebranding initiative for XYZ Co. in 2015. I also had the opportunity to attend a professional development series moderated by vice president Susan Gilbert, which was both informative and inspiring. It has long been a professional career goal to work for your organization, and I would very much appreciate your consideration for any current or future role you think I might be suited for.

You should attach a resume and work samples detailing your background and experience.

Acknowledge the Cold Call

In your letter, it is OK to let them know you are aware there are no current openings. It shows your sincerity as well as leaves the door open, even if you don't get a call back right away.

I realize you don't have any posted openings at the moment, but I wanted to introduce myself and express my interest in the event a position becomes available in the future.

You can mention you are willing to come in for an interview to connect and learn more about the company, its goals and objectives.

Make plans to follow up on your letter every few weeks, either by emailing or calling the department head or human resources office. Keep an eye on the company website for new job postings. You will already be established and recognized as a possible candidate.

• Montana Tech: Writing an Effective Cold Call Letter
• Express your interest in the company based on a recent news article, industry report or company profile. Customize the letter as much as possible so it won't be tossed aside as just another form letter.

Lisa McQuerrey has been a business writer since 1987. In 1994, she launched a full-service marketing and communications firm. McQuerrey's work has garnered awards from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the International Association of Business Communicators and the Associated Press. She is also the author of several nonfiction trade publications, and, in 2012, had her first young-adult novel published by Glass Page Books.