An effective cover letter complements your resume by telling a focused story about why you are a strong match for the role. Keep it to one page, tailor it to the job description, and use keywords naturally so it remains ATS‑friendly. Prioritize concrete, relevant achievements with measurable outcomes, mirror the company’s tone, and end with a clear call to action.
Include the following sections and details:
- Header: Your full name, phone, professional email, city (optional), date, and the recipient’s name, title, company, and address. Include the job title and requisition/reference number if available.
- Salutation: Address a specific person (e.g., “Dear Ms. Rivera,”). If you can’t find a name, use a professional alternative like “Dear Hiring Manager,”.
- Introduction: State the role you’re applying for and where you found it. Add a compelling hook: one sentence that highlights your most relevant qualification or standout result.
- Body paragraph(s): 1–2 short paragraphs that connect your achievements to the role. Cite 2–3 relevant examples with metrics, tools, or domain knowledge. Emphasize outcomes (e.g., revenue, time saved, quality, engagement).
- Closing paragraph: Reaffirm fit, express enthusiasm, and invite next steps (interview/call). Mention attachments (resume/portfolio) or availability if helpful.
- Letter ending and signature: Use a professional sign‑off (“Sincerely,” “Best regards,”), followed by your name. Optionally restate contact details.