A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other candidates and show your enthusiasm for the job. In this article, we are sharing 100 carefully curated cover letter phrase examples to elevate your job application. Organized by category, these phrases will provide you with the inspiration and guidance needed to create a compelling cover letter from start to finish.
Difference Between Cover Letter and Resume
Your resume and cover letter serve different purposes in your job application.
- A resume is a summary of your work experience, skills, and education. It is factual and lists your qualifications.
- A cover letter introduces you to the employer. It explains why you are interested in the job and how your skills match the position.
Format Differences:
- A resume uses bullet points to list your experiences.
- A cover letter is written in paragraphs like a regular letter.
Content Differences:
- Resumes include sections like “Work Experience” and “Education”.
- Cover letters focus on your motivation and how you can benefit the company.
Tone:
- Resumes are usually formal and straightforward.
- Cover letters have a personal tone and can show some of your personality.
Length:
- Resumes are one to two pages long.
- Cover letters are usually just one page.
Importance of Tailoring Your Cover Letter
When you tailor your cover letter, you show the employer that you have done your homework.
- Mention the company’s name and discuss why you want to work there: this makes you stand out from those who use generic cover letters.
- Address your cover letter to a specific person if you can.
- Detail specific skills and experiences that match the job requirements. For instance, if the job requires teamwork skills, mention a project where you worked well in a team.
- Use keywords from the job listing. For example, if the listing mentions “problem-solving” and “communication,” make sure to include these terms in your cover letter. This can help you pass through automated screening tools.
- Explain why you are passionate about the role. Share a brief personal story or interest that relates to the job. This can make your cover letter more engaging.
Crafting Your Cover Letter: Example Phrases
Examples for Effective Opening Paragraph
- “I am excited to apply for the Project Manager position at […] Company, which I found through your website.”
- “With five years of experience in marketing, I am eager to join your dynamic team at […] Company.”
- “I was thrilled to see the job posting for the […] role at […] Corp on LinkedIn and knew I had to apply.”
- “I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], which I discovered through [Source]. With my background in [Your Field or Expertise], I am motivated to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your team.”
- “With [Number] years of experience in [Your Field or Expertise], I am applying for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I believe my skills in [Specific Skills or Competencies] will be a valuable addition to your team.”
- “I found the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] on [Source] and am very interested in applying. My experience in [Your Field or Expertise] and passion for [Specific Aspect of the Job] make me a strong candidate for this role.”
- “As a professional with a background in [Your Field or Expertise], I am interested in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am particularly drawn to this role because of [Specific Reason Related to the Company or Position].”
- “Having recently completed my [Degree or Certification] in [Your Field], I am eager to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am confident that my training in [Specific Skills or Knowledge] will enable me to contribute effectively to your team.”
- “I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Source]. With my expertise in [Your Field or Expertise] and a passion for [Related Aspect], I am excited about the opportunity to join your team.”
- “With a strong background in [Your Field or Expertise] and a passion for [Related Aspect], I am applying for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I believe my skills in [Specific Skills or Competencies] will be a valuable asset to your team.”
- “I am enthusiastic about leveraging my expertise in [Your Field or Expertise] to contribute to the projects at [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. I am excited about the opportunity to be part of your team.”
Examples for Highlighting Your Achievements
- “In my previous role, I increased sales by 20% in six months through targeted marketing campaigns.”
- “I successfully managed a project that reduced production costs by 15%.”
- “I developed a […] program that improved satisfaction rates by 30%.”
- “I was named Employee of the Year for my dedication and innovative approach to problem-solving.”
- “I received the […] Excellence Award for my contributions to team projects.”
- “Led a cross-functional team to complete a critical project ahead of schedule.”
- “Implemented a new […] system that streamlined operations by 25%.”
- “Certified as a Professional in Human Resources, enhancing my understanding of HR policies.”
- “Having led a team of […] for over three years, I believe I can bring valuable project management skills to your organization.”
- “My recent internship at […] Company honed my […] skills, making me a perfect fit for your team.”
- “I admire […] Company’s dedication to sustainability and would love to contribute to your innovative projects.”
Examples for Showing Industry Knowledge
- “I have followed […]’s market strategies and was impressed by your latest product launch.”
- “With a deep understanding of the […] industry, I am aware of the challenges your company faces.”
- “Your recent expansion into international markets aligns with my experience in global project management.”
- “The growing emphasis on […] is something I specialize in, and I am eager to apply my skills at your company.”
- “Experienced in using [software tool] to drive sales performance.”
- “Proficient in […], crucial for […].”
- “I admire your commitment to […] solutions and want to be a part of your journey.”
Examples for Demonstrating Relevant Skills
- “My proficiency in […] and […] makes me well-suited for your […] role.”
- “Skilled in […], I can enhance your […].”
- “Experienced in […], I can provide valuable insights for your […] team.”
- “As a team leader, I have honed my communication and organizational abilities.”
- “My problem-solving skills are reflected in my ability to tackle complex challenges.”
- “Expert in […] and possess strong attention to detail.”
- “Adept at conflict resolution and maintaining positive client relationships.”
Examples for Conveying Enthusiasm
Show your individuality and passion for the role. It’s important to come across as sincere and enthusiastic.
- “I am genuinely excited about this opportunity to bring my creativity to your […] team.”
- “My passion for […] aligns with your company’s values.”
- “I thrive in collaborative environments and would love to contribute to your team’s success.”
- “Ever since I attended your keynote at the […] Conference, I’ve been inspired by your innovative approach.”
- “I look forward to the possibility of working at such a forward-thinking company.”
- “I am excited about the opportunity to drive results and grow with your company.”
- “Your company’s commitment to excellence resonates with my career goals.”
Examples for a Persuasive Closing Paragraph
- “I am eager to bring my skills in project management to […] Company and look forward to discussing this opportunity further.”
- “Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team.”
- “I am confident that my background in digital marketing makes me a perfect candidate, and I hope to hear from you soon.”
- “You can reach me at 123-456-7890 or via email at example@example.com.”
- “I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and would love to provide more details on my background.”
- “Thank you again for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to […] Company.”
Tips for Writing a Cover Letter With No Professional Experience
1. Focus on your transferable skills. Learn more: 150 Example Phrases: Top Transferable Skills Every Company Wants
2. Mention volunteer work, school projects, or other non-job experiences that relate to the job. You can show a willingness to learn and grow by using phrases like:
- “I am motivated to apply the skills I developed through my volunteer work with [Organization] to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].”
- “My experience leading a team project in my [Course/Program] has equipped me with strong organizational and communication skills that I am excited to bring to [Company Name].”
- “Volunteering at [Organization] has given me hands-on experience in [Relevant Skill], which I am enthusiastic about applying in the [Job Title] role at [Company Name].”
- “I have developed a solid foundation in [Relevant Skill] through my coursework in [Subject], and I am excited about the opportunity to further develop these skills at [Company Name].”
- “Participating in [Extracurricular Activity] has taught me the importance of teamwork and perseverance, qualities I am eager to contribute to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].”
- “My involvement in [School Project/Club] has provided me with valuable experience in [Relevant Skill], which I am excited to leverage in the [Job Title] role at [Company Name].”
- “I am passionate about [Field/Industry] and have taken the initiative to gain experience through [Relevant Activity], which I am enthusiastic about applying at [Company Name].”
3. Highlight your educational achievements: mention any relevant coursework, projects, or academic awards that demonstrate your knowledge and dedication to the field. Examples:
- “My coursework in [Subject] has provided me with a strong foundation in [Relevant Skill], which I am eager to apply in the [Job Title] role at [Company Name].”
- “I am proud of my academic achievements in [Subject], and I am excited about the opportunity to bring this knowledge to [Company Name].”
- “Completing my [Degree/Program] has equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary for the [Job Title] position, and I am eager to contribute to [Company Name].”
4. Express enthusiasm for the role and the company:
- “I am particularly impressed by [Specific Aspect of the Company], and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.”
- “I am passionate about [Field/Industry] and am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to your innovative projects.”
5. Be confident in your abilities. (Even if you lack professional experience, your skills and enthusiasm can still make you a strong candidate!) Examples:
- “I am confident that my skills in [Relevant Skill] and my dedication to [Field/Industry] will make me a valuable addition to your team.”
- “I believe my background in [Relevant Activity] has prepared me well for the [Job Title] position, and I am excited to bring my unique perspective to [Company Name].”
Tips and Best Practices
Leveraging Strong Adjectives and Verbs
Try to use powerful adjectives and verbs whenever possible. These words can make your skills stand out, especially your soft skills. For example, instead of saying “helped,” you can use “facilitated” or “implemented.” Instead of “good,” you can say “excellent” or “high-quality.” Or, if you managed a project, you can describe it as a “successful project” or “high-impact project.” Simple changes like this make your experience seem more impressive.
Following Up After Submission
After submitting your cover letter and resume, wait about a week to follow up. This shows you’re serious about the job. Keep the email short and polite, and mention that you’re checking on the status of your application.
Be specific (reference the job you applied for and the date you submitted your application). Reiterate your interest in the position: this reminds the employer who you are and shows your continued dedication to the role.
Related: 5 Examples: Follow Up on Job Applications (Get More Interviews)
Conclusion and Q & A
How can I write an effective cover letter for a job application?
- Start with a strong opening that grabs attention.
- Mention the job title and where you found the listing.
- Show enthusiasm for the role.
- Highlight your skills and experiences that match the job requirements.
- End with a call to action, like asking for an interview or expressing eagerness to discuss further.
Are there any concise strategies for composing a short cover letter?
- Keep your letter to one page.
- Focus only on the most important points.
- Avoid unnecessary details.
- Stick to three main parts: an introduction, a section that connects your skills to the job, and a closing that thanks the reader and asks for a next step.
When drafting a cover letter, should I opt for a PDF format or a Word format, and why?
A PDF format is usually better. PDFs keep your formatting intact, no matter what device or software the employer uses. This helps your letter look polished and professional. Only use a Word format if the job listing specifically asks for it.
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