Best Nursing Cover Letter Example and Tips for This Year

Essentials to Boost Your Career

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Five Sections Of A Great Nursing Cover Letter

A cover letter is a one-page document that introduces you to the hiring manager. A cover letter strategically uses information from your nursing resume and the job description to show them why you are the best person for the role. A resume cover letter typically consists of the following sections:

1. Contact information

   Your contact information should be included in the header of your cover letter so the hiring manager or recruiter can easily find it to contact you for an interview or follow-up questions. Include:

   • Your full name
   • Address
   • Phone number
   • Email address
   • Professional links, such as LinkedIn

2. Personal greeting or salutation

   On the left side of the page, date your cover letter and list the address and contact information of the company. Greet the hiring manager personally by using their name. For example, “Dear Mr. [Hiring manager’s name.]” If the job description does not list their name, then you may be able to find it by researching the company through their website or LinkedIn. Using a name rather than a generic greeting makes it more likely for your cover letter to be read.

3. An opening paragraph with a hook

   Make your first paragraph your best because this will determine if the hiring manager goes on to read the rest of your cover letter. State the job you are applying for, and try to hook the hiring manager with a unique selling point that makes you stand out from other applicants. For example, if you have ten years of experience as a nurse practitioner or you’re a new grad of a prestigious medical center program, then write about this in your opening paragraph.

4. Your skills, achievements, and unique qualities

   The body of your cover letter should include more details about your prior work experience, education, or internships. You can use bullet points to list tasks you were responsible for if it helps to organize the body of your letter better. Tell the hiring manager about additional relevant skills, certifications, or training you have.

   For a registered nurse, this may include:

   • Patient care
   • Empathy
   • CPR
   • Nutrition counseling
   • Pain management

   You can also include a referral if you have one, such as a teacher, mentor, or former colleague.

5. A closing paragraph with a call to action

   The closing paragraph of your cover letter should reiterate your enthusiasm for the position, and give thanks to the hiring manager for taking the time to review your job application. Close out with a call to action. Invite the hiring manager to contact you for an interview or further conversation.