How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Great Tips & Samples

Step 1. Cover letter header

The header should contain all your contact information. This includes:

• Your full name
• Email address
• Phone number
• (If applicable) Link to portfolio or LinkedIn profile

It should also address the hiring manager directly. You need to include:

• The name of the hiring manager
• Company address
• Hiring manager’s email address
• Company phone number

Good example

Jane Smith, Peoria, MD 12345, 000-0000-000, janesmith@email.com

Kimberley Lewis
MediHealth of Peoria
100 Healthy Circle
Peoria, MD 12345
KLewis@email.com
000-0000-000

Bad example

Jane S., Peoria, 000-000-0000, Crazylady@email.com

Kim @MediHealth of Peoria
Peoria, MD
000-0000-000

Key Tip

When writing your contact information, be sure your email address sounds professional so the hiring manager, recruiter or prospective employer recognizes you are serious about the job.

Step 2. Salutation

One of the best ways to hook a potential employer’s attention is by addressing them by name in the salutation. Try to avoid using any of the following salutations:

• To whom it may concern
• Dear hiring manager
• Dear Human Resources team
• Dear sir or madam

This can come off as impersonal or lazy. You want to perform your due diligence in researching the company you want to work for, so address your letter to the specific person in charge of hiring for this position.

Good example

Dear Mr. Smith,

Bad example

To Whom it May Concern,

Key tip

If the job posting does not include who to direct your cover letter to, do some research on the company website or LinkedIn to see which human resources professional or manager leads the department you’re applying for, and address them directly.

Step 3. Opening Paragraph: Most Impressive Achievements

The first sentence of a cover letter for resume can also be crucial. Many recruiters will often hear phrases such as “I am excited to apply for [Job Position]”. Instead, start by giving the hiring manager a reason or two why you believe you are the perfect fit. This can also help create opportunities to go over other previous work experiences and achievements in the body of your cover letter.

Keep your opening paragraph concise and specific. You’ll be using this as the springboard to more fully describe your skills and experiences in the rest of your letter.

Good example

As a social worker experienced in counseling at-risk youth, including saving the life of a suicidal teenage girl, and am ready to take my career to the next level by applying for the social worker position with MediHealth of Peoria. I am confident that my issue resolution and problem-solving abilities, as well as my experience in the Nassau County School System make me an excellent fit for this position.

Bad example

I am writing today to apply for a position with your company so I can switch out of the school system. I am confident that my social work skills abilities and my experience will make you want to hire me.

Key tip

Grab the reader’s attention with something that potentially no other job candidate can offer the company: a unique skill or career accomplishment.

Step 4. Body paragraphs

This section is perhaps the most critical to the cover letter for job application. Here you need to explain why your previous work experiences and achievements make you the best possible fit for any given position. Having the job description on hand will be especially useful here. Be specific; elaborate on your experiences and how they match this current job description will let the hiring manager know that you are the right person for the job.

Good example

As my attached resume outlines, I have five years of experience working in the social work field. I have provided guidance and emotional support to 300+ adults and teenagers. I am confident that I can achieve similar results for MediHealth of Peoria. With my unique approach, I will provide thorough consultations, accurate assessments and effective treatment plans, with methods that I know are important to your organization. I am looking for an opportunity to demonstrate my dedication to this industry while helping your clients overcome challenging experiences.

Bad example

My resume shows you that I have lots of experience working in this field. I have provided guidance and emotional support to many people. I’ll definitely achieve similar results for your company. I have my own approach to doing things and I can share that with your team. My methods will be a great addition to your organization. Call me.

Key tip

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe in detail how you have used the skills necessary for the job you’re applying for. Giving concrete examples from your career shows you’re qualified.

Step 5. Closing Paragraph: Call to Action for the Interview

The final paragraph should reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and sum up to the hiring manager why you would be the perfect fit. Finally, end your letter by stating you are available for an interview at their earliest convenience.

Good example

Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you further regarding how I can contribute to the continued success and wellbeing of clients that seek help from MediHealth of Peoria.

Bad example

Please look at my application and resume carefully so I can make the switch from working at the school to working at MediHealth of Peoria as soon as possible.

Key tip

As you’re thanking the reader for considering you a candidate, mention the position you’re applying for once again and reemphasize how you want to contribute to the company’s success.

Step 6. Sign-off

Close your letter with a professional sign-off like “With best regards,” “Sincerely” or
Respectfully.” Using a sign-off that’s too informal will brand you as an unprofessional job candidate.

Good example

Respectfully,
John Smith

Bad example

Chat soon,
John Smith

Key tip

While “Sincerely” may be a professional sign-off, you can show your creativity by using one of the other less used professional sign-offs like “Kind regards.”