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How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Examples

After weeks of heavy job search, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume. 

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send your application and call it a day, you remember that the job ad requires a cover letter.

Now you’re stuck wondering how to write a cover letter ...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

• What’s a cover letter & why it’s important for your job search
• How to write a convincing cover letter that gets you the job (step-by-step!)
• How to perfect your cover letter with the Novoresume free checklist
• What excellent cover letter examples look like

New to cover letter writing? Give our resumes 101 video a watch before diving into the article!

So, let’s get started with the basics!

What is a Cover Letter? (and Why It’s Important)

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application (alongside your CV or Resume). 

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can spark the HR manager’s interest and get them to read your resume. 

A bad cover letter, on the other hand, might mean that your application is going directly to the paper shredder. So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

How does a good cover letter look, you might ask. Well, here’s an example:

Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you don’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume.

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, writing all this might seem pretty tough. After all, you’re probably not a professional writer.

The thing is, though, you don’t need to be creative, or even any good at writing. All you have to do is follow a tried-and-tested format:

• Header - Input contact information
• Greeting the hiring manager
• Opening paragraph - Grab the reader’s attention with 2-3 of your top achievements
• Second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job
• Third paragraph - Explain why you’re a good match for the company
• Formal closing

Or, here’s what this looks like in practice:

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter (And Get Hired!)

Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, we’re going to guide you through the process of writing a cover letter step by step. 

Step #1 - Pick the Right Cover Letter Template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, visual template?

You can simply pick one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in a jiffy!

As a bonus, our AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter on the go.

Step #2 - Start the Cover Letter with a Header

As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with a Contact Information section:

Here, you want to include all essential information, including:

• Phone Number
• Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
• Name of the company you’re applying to

In certain cases, you might also consider adding:

• Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
• Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your blog.

And here’s what you shouldn’t mention in your header:

• Your Full Address 
• Unprofessional Email - Make sure your email is presentable. It’s pretty hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Whenever applying for jobs, stick to the “[first name] + [last name] @ email provider.com” format.

Step #3 - Greet the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed your contact information, you need to start writing the cover letter contents.

The first thing to do here is to address the cover letter to the hiring manager .

That’s right, the hiring manager! Not the overly popular “Dear Sir or Madam.” You want to show your future boss that you did your research and are really passionate about working with their team.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes to get hired in any of them.

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager? There are several ways to do this. 

The simplest option is to look up the head of the relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably Head of Communications or Chief Communications Office.

So, you do a quick lookup on LinkedIn:

And voila! You have your hiring manager.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of a server. In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager.”

If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Here are several other greetings you could use:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• To whom it may concern
• Dear [Department] Team

Step #4 - Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph .

The #1 problem we see with most cover letter opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Most of them look something like this..

• Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say pretty much anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

Do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

So now, let’s make our previous example shine:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed their sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the job.

See the difference between the two examples? If you were the hiring manager, which sales manager would you hire, Jonathan or Michael?

Now that we’ve covered the introduction, let’s talk about the body of your cover letter. This part is split into two paragraphs: the first is for explaining why you’re the perfect person for the job, and the latter is for proving that you’re a good fit for the company.

So, let’s get started...

Step #5 - Explain why you’re the perfect person for the job

This is where you show off your professional skills and convince the HR manager that you’re a better fit for the job than all the other applicants.

But first things first - before you even write anything, you need to learn what the most important requirements for the role are. So, open up the job ad and identify which of the responsibilities are the most critical.

For the sake of the example, let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. You scan the job ad and see that the top requirements are:

• Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
• Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
• Excellent copywriting skills

Now, in this section, you need to discuss how you fulfill these requirements. So, here’s how that would look for our example:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation & management process end-to-end. Meaning, I created the ad copy , images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

• Google Search

Are you a student applying for your first internship? You probably don’t have a lot of work experience to show off in this section. Learn how to write an internship cover letter here.

Step #6 - Explain why you’re a good fit for the company

Once you’ve written the last paragraph, you might be thinking - I’m a shoo-in for the job! What else do I need to write? I’ll just wrap up the cover letter and hit that sweet SEND button.

Well, no. You’re not quite there yet.

The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.

After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary . 

Meaning, you also need to convince the HR manager that you’re really passionate about working with them.

How do you do this? Well, as a start, you want to do some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?

So, get to Googling. Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or somewhere around the web.

Then, you need to figure out what you like about the company and turn that into text.

Let’s say, for example, you’re passionate about their product and you like the culture of innovation / independent work in the organization.

You’d write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2 were real game changers for the device. 

I really admire how Company XYZ thrives for excellence for all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone that thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I and Company XYZ will be a great match.

What you don’t want to do here is be super generic for the sake of having something to write. Most job seekers tend to mess this one up. Let’s take a look at a very common example we tend to see (way too often):

I’d love to work for Company XYZ because of its culture of innovation. I believe that since I’m super creative, I’d be a good fit for the company. The company values of integrity and transparency really vibe with me.

See what’s wrong here? The example doesn’t really say anything about the company. “Culture of Innovation” is something most companies claim to have. 

The same goes for “values of integrity and transparency” - the writer just googled what the values for the organization are, and said that they like them.

Any hiring manager that reads this will see through the fluff.

So, make sure to do a lot of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying.

Step #7 - Wrap up with a call to action

Finally, it’s time to finish up your cover letter and write the conclusion.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? Any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision? Mention it here.
• Thank the hiring manager for their time. It never hurts to be courteous, as long as you don’t come off as too needy.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. You should ask the hiring manager to take some sort of action.

And now, let’s turn this into a practical example:

So to wrap it all up, thanks for looking into my application. I hope I can help Company X make the most out of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your facebook marketing goals.

Step #8 - Use the right formal closing

Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.

Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions to a cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

And we’re finally done! Before sending off the cover letter, make sure to proofread it with software like Grammarly, or maybe even get a friend to review it for you.

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional email
• Relevant Social Media Profiles

Do you address the right person? I.e. hiring manager in the company / your future direct supervisor

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention 2-3 of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?

Do you successfully convey that you’re the right pro for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements?
• Did you successfully convey how your experiences help you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

• Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
• Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you finalize the conclusion with a call to action?

Did you use the right formal closure for the cover letter?

5+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Read on to learn about some of the best cover letter examples we’ve seen (for different fields).

College Student Cover Letter Example

Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Career Change Cover Letter Example

Management Cover Letter Example

Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Want to discover more examples AND learn what makes them stand out? Check out our guide to cover letter examples .

Next Steps in Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application is for naught. 

After all, a cover letter is just an introduction. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression, but flopping at the end because of a mediocre resume.

...But don’t you worry, we’ve got you covered on that end, too.

If you want to learn more about Resumes & CVs, we have a dedicated FREE guide for that. Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume , as well as how to write a CV - our experts will teach you everything you need to know in order to land your dream job.

Or, if you’re already an expert, just pick one of our resume templates and get started.

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that convinces the hiring manager of your competence
• A cover letter goes in your job application alongside your resume
• Your introduction to the cover letter should grab the hiring manager’s attention and keep it all the way until the conclusion
• There are 2 main topics you need to include in your cover letter: why you’re the perfect candidate for the job & why you’re passionate about working in the company you’re applying to
• Most of the content of your cover letter should be factual , without any fluff or generalizations

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve, every step of the way! Follow our blog to stay up to date with the industry-leading advice. Or, check out some of our top guides…

• How to Write a Motivational Letter
• How to Write a Resume with No Work Experience
• Most Common Interview Questions and Answers

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How To Start a Cover Letter With Examples and Tips

• How to Start a Cover Letter
• Cover Letter Opening Sentence Examples

Personalize Your Cover Letter

• What to Write in the Rest of Your Letter

Cover Letter Sample

More cover letter examples and templates.

Theresa Chiechi / The Balance

What's the best way to start a cover letter for a job? The first couple of sentences of your  cover letter  are the most important ones. Recruiters and hiring managers often spend mere seconds scanning your application.

If your cover letter doesn't grab their attention right away, they may never even get as far as the second paragraph. What should these all-important first sentences say? Keep in mind that you're hoping to differentiate yourself from the competition. Your goal is to explain to the reader who you are, why you're writing, and how you can contribute to the employer's success.

This might mean  highlighting a contact , providing a quick window into your relevant background and experience, or emphasizing a significant accomplishment that would make you an asset to the organization.

Think about why the hiring manager should select you, above all other candidates, for an interview, and you'll be on the right track.

How to Start a Cover Letter 

Be direct.  In these opening sentences, you want to explicitly let the reader know which position you're applying for. Hiring managers are often looking at candidates for several open jobs at any given time. Make sure it's easy for them to discover your intent. For example:

I am interested in the coordinator position at ABC company.

Mention a contact.  If someone  referred you to the position , include that information early on as well. Referrals are one of the key aspects to securing an interview, so be sure to mention yours right away. For example:

Jane Doe suggested I contact you about the job, as she feels my skills would be a good fit for the position.

State an accomplishment.  Try to state an accomplishment from your previous job. If you can, show how you added value to the last company you worked for. You might even add the job title you had if it's similar to the one you are applying for. For example:

As coordinator at XYZ Enterprises, I have increased my group's output by 37% over the past 15 months.

Express excitement.  Convey your passion for your work, and your excitement about the job and company. Your cover letter is an opportunity to sell yourself to the hiring manager, and to share why you're well qualified for the job. For example:

I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss what I have to bring to the position at ABC company.

Use keywords.  If you can include any  keywords  from the job listing, do so. You can mention a skill you have that was included in the post. For example: 

My track history of successfully managing teams and delivering projects on time and on budget makes me a good fit for this role.

Examples of Cover Letter Opening Sentences 

• 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 utilize the resources I had by employing well-defined objectives and an attitude of empowerment.
• I am very interested in the entry-level position that is available at ABC Investment Partners. I recently graduated from XYZ college, and my courses in investments, finance, and business have equipped me with a solid base upon which I plan to build my career.
• I am writing to express my strong interest in the international marketing position open at WellCam, Inc. My colleague Janna Doling recommended that I contact you directly about this position, owing to the years I have spent developing successful campaigns for XYZ company.
• I'm writing to express my interest in the editorial assistant position listed on Monster.com. Given my five years of editorial experience and excellent capabilities, I would appreciate your consideration for this position.
• I have a very strong interest in pursuing a teaching career. With experience working at both elementary and high school levels, as well as in activities outside of the traditional classroom, I have a diverse background with much to offer.
• I have the pleasure of being acquainted with one of the counselors on your staff, Eleanor Seville. She let me know about the open position and recommended that I contact you.
• I was excited to read about the administrative assistant job opening at XYZ company. I have several years of administrative experience in a variety of fields, including insurance and finance.
• I understand that you have been deluged with resumes since  Computer World  released their list of the best companies to work for. Mine is one more, but I do have experience that is hard to come by.
• My proven track record of successfully performing complex analyses on various corporations makes me an ideal candidate for the analyst opportunity that you have advertised.

When you're not sure how to get started, it can be really helpful to review  examples of cover letters . You can use these as a guide, but be sure to tailor your introduction to your personal circumstances and the job you're applying for.

The more closely you  construct your cover letter  to show that you're a  match for the job requirements , the better your chances of getting selected for an interview.

What to Write in the Rest of Your Cover Letter

Of course,  the rest of your letter  is important too. You'll need to use an  appropriate salutation , and make your  cover letter closing  polite and inviting. In the  body of your letter , you have the opportunity to pitch your qualifications for the job in more detail than you have room for in your resume.

If there are specific events or accomplishments you feel are likely to make you stand out, you can briefly mention them and explain in more detail should you secure an interview.

Make sure your  contact information  is complete as well, and format your  signature  to match the letter style you are using.

Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online) or read the example below.

Sample Cover Letter (Text Version)

John Smith 37 Oak Street Middle Village, New York 10502 555-555-555 john.smith@email.com

March 22, 2021

Dr. Jane Doe All Smiles Dentistry 5 Main Street, Suite A Middle Village, New York 10502

Dear Dr. Doe,

My former coworker, Maria Rodriguez, suggested that I contact you to express my interest in the position of dental assistant in your office in Middle Village.

I’m a licensed dental assistant with over 10 years of experience helping dentists and hygienists make their patients smile. In my current role with ABC Dental, I have gained proficiency in the four-handed dentistry technique, as well as mastering Henry Schein Dentix software.

I also have the following skills and qualifications, as outlined in the job description on your website:

• Experience taking and developing dental X-rays
• Infection control expertise, including preparing and sterilizing instruments and equipment
• Knowledge of several different types of scheduling software
• Language skills (bilingual: English/Spanish)
• Excellent customer service skills and attention to detail

Most importantly, I love people. I consider it a great privilege to help dentists improve their patients’ lives by providing the very best support and customer care.

I’ve enclosed my resume, and I hope you’ll contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Review cover letter examples for many different types of jobs, and get downloadable templates you can use to write your own cover letters.

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15 Cover Letter Templates to Perfect Your Next Job Application

Published: August 10, 2022

Are cover letters necessary? I'm not in HR, but I've been approached by applicants who wondered whether their cover letter would actually be read. My answer is one not many of them wanted to hear: "sometimes." Sometimes it will be read. Other times, you can get away with just sending in your resume — like when you network your way into applying for a position.

The truth is, you can't really predict on a case-by-case basis — and you're better safe than sorry. For the most part, having a cover letter will give you an upper hand in ways your resume doesn't. It allows you to show off your writing skills, provide details that you couldn't fit on your resume, demonstrate your passion, and show your willingness to put in as much time and effort as possible.

If you’ve ever rolled your eyes or balked at an application that required a cover letter, this guide is for you. We’ll go over how to write a cover letter and provide cover letter templates to help you perfect your own.

Application Letter

An application letter is a written document addressed to an employer by a job applicant, explaining why they're interested in and qualified for an open position. More commonly known as a cover letter, this document can come in the form of an email, MS Word document, or similar application template offered by the employer.

Seems fairly basic, right? Cover letters can hold different levels of importance to an employer depending on the industry you're in and the job you're applying for. According to a CareerBuilder survey, 49% of recruiters say sendign a cover letter along with your resume boosts your chance of landing the role.

If you do plan to write a cover letter, keep in mind there are certain qualities it should have that are not included in the definition above.

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

• Standard Cover Letter Template
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

What to Include in a Cover Letter

So, what should you include? We'll let the 11 templates below this list do most of the talking. No matter which one you download, pay attention to the following elements — all of which should shine through in the letter you send to your future manager.

Fill out this form to access your templates.

1. contact information.

Cover letters shouldn't just carry your contact information, but also that of the company to which you're applying. Contact info includes your phone number, email address, and any social media accounts you're willing to share and receive connections to.

Home addresses aren't required, but they can be a helpful reassurance to the employer that you already live nearby and would have no trouble coming into the office.

Avoid offering phone numbers, email addresses, or actual addresses that belong to your current employer. Using your personal Gmail address over your work email, for example, ensures your correspondence with recruiters remains separate from all of your current work communication.

2. A Personal Address Line

For as often as you see "to whom it may concern" at the top of cover letters today, do your best to avoid writing this exhausted line.

Address lines that specify a person or company grab your reader's attention much more quickly, and show the employer that you've taken the time to tailor your application letter to them. Don't have the name of the hiring manager? "Employers at [company name]" will do just fine.

A "hook" is a clever introduction that "hooks" your reader into wanting to learn more. Think about yourself as a job candidate — what makes you unique? What about your career might a recruiter be intrigued by that you can package into an interesting first sentence?

4. Why You're Qualified

It's a no-brainer that you should summarize your professional experience in your cover letter. However, today's best applications describe why this experience qualifies the applicant for the job they're applying for. For example, don't just state that you spent three years writing for a company blog. Explain that this type of work lends itself to managing your new potential employer's content calendar every week.

5. General Knowledge of the Business

Grammatical errors could mean your application is thrown in the trash, but that's not the only thing that could get your letter tossed aside. Using a generic "one-size-fits-all" cover letter — especially if you forget to change the name of the company — will also hurt your chances of landing an interview.

So, if you take the time to write a cover letter, take the time to comment on the business itself. Why are you applying to this company? What about their business stuck out to you as a professional?

Now, let's take a look at an example cover letter , what makes it effective, along with 11 templates you can download or draw inspiration from.

Cover Letter Example

Image Source

The example above illustrates how to write a marketing cover letter using the elements we listed.

Besides the contact information and the address line, the first few paragraphs explain why the candidate is qualified for the position. This example uses specific data to show why they would be a good fit.

Additionally, in the second to last paragraph, the candidate discusses why they're interested in the specific company, demonstrating general knowledge of the business.

By combining all the elements to a cover letter, this is a great example to use for inspiration.

Featured Resource: 5 Professional Cover Letter Templates

14 Free Cover Letter Templates for Your Next Job Application

Template 1: basic.

The example above is a basic (but great) cover letter. The numbered sections are explained in more detail below.

The level of formality your header has will depend on the company to which you apply. If you're applying to a formal business, it's important to use a formal header to open your cover letter, like in the sample above. Put your address, the date, and the company's address. But if you're applying to a company that isn't as formal, you don't need to include yours and the company's addresses. You can still include the date, though.

2. Greeting

Using "To Whom It May Concern" is okay, but you may want to take the time to research the name of the recruiter or hiring manager online. If you do your research and aren't confident you found the right name, then you should definitely use the generic greeting — but if you are sure, then it shows you put in the effort to find their name and it will catch the recruiter's eye.

If you have the recruiter's name, do you greet them by their full name, or by their courtesy title (i.e. Mr., Ms., or Mrs.)? Similar to the header, it depends on the company's level of formality. If you're applying to a corporate business, you may want to consider using "Mr. Snaper" instead of "Jon Snaper." If you're applying to a start-up or a business with a more casual culture, you can use "Jon Snaper," as shown in the example.

3. Introduction

Your opening paragraph should, in 1-3 sentences, state why you're excited to apply and what makes you the perfect candidate. Get right to the point, and don't worry about explaining where you found the posting or who you know at the company. This isn't a place to go into detail about why you're a great candidate — that's for the second paragraph. Here, simply list a few key reasons in one sentence to set up the rest of your letter. Keep in mind that the recruiter may cross-reference your cover letter with your resume, so make sure the two sync up.

4. Paragraph 2: Why You're a Great Fit for the Job

Next, sell yourself and your experience by choosing one or two concrete examples that show why you're a great fit for the position. What did you do at a previous company that gave you relevant experience? Which projects have you worked on that would benefit the new company? How will your prior experience help this company grow? Stay humble in your explanation of credentials while still showing that you would be an asset to the team. Use this paragraph to show you're genuinely excited and interested in the position.

5. Third Paragraph: Why the Company Is a Great Fit for You

While it's certainly important you're a good fit for the job, it's also important that the company is a good fit for you. "A cover letter typically describes why you're great for a company — but how will you benefit from getting hired?" asks former HubSpot Team Development Manager Emily MacIntyre . "We want to know why our company appeals to you, and how it will be a mutually beneficial working relationship."

In the third paragraph, show you're serious about growing and developing your career at this new company. What impresses and excites you about the company? Is there something that you feel strongly about that aligns with the company's goals? For example, the candidate in the sample letter used this space to show his personal commitment to environmental causes aligns with the company's green initiatives.

6. Strong Closer and Signature

Don't get lazy in the final few sentences of your cover letter — it's important to finish strong. Be straightforward about your interest and enthusiasm about the new position, and tell them you're available to talk about the opportunity at any time. Be sure to include your phone number and email address. At this point, the ball is (rightly) in the recruiter's court to decide how to follow up.

Last but certainly not least, thank them for their time and consideration. Use a formal sign-off like "Best," "All the best," or "Sincerely," and finish by typing out your full name. You don't need to sign it with a pen.

Template 2: Data-Driven Marketing Cover Letter

Get it here..

When applying to a data-driven position, it might be tempting to inject your cover letter with, well, the data to describe what you've done for other employers. But in an application letter — particularly for the marketing industry — how you convey this data is just as important as the data itself.

The cover letter template above, which we created here at HubSpot, can help you present the data that's most important to you as a candidate such that it'll matter to your future employer.

Notice the three bullet points near the center of the letter above, preceded by the statement: "... I've developed a strategy that has helped the company achieve ..." This setup is important, because while you can add as many statistics as you want to this template, your data points should describe how your current/former business benefited from your work, rather than how you, yourself, benefited.

Template 3: Straight-to-the-Point Cover Letter

Harvard Business Review contributor David Silverman hailed the above cover letter example as "The Best Cover Letter I Ever Received." For context, Silverman believes there are only a handful of times when writing a cover letter is actually necessary:

• When you know the name of the hiring manager.
• When you know something about what the job requires.
• When you've been referred to the job personally.

Under those three circumstances, a straight-to-the-point cover letter like the one above could be your best bet. Because it's so concise, however, make a point to add your own letterhead above the message itself. It might be easy for a recruiter to sift through a short and sweet cover letter like the one above, but it's just as easy for it to get lost in the shuffle of their application list without a unique design or format.

Template 4: Referral Cover Letter

Just because a friend or colleague recommended you for a job doesn't mean the company is all set to hire you. Therefore, the cover letter template above is written specifically for referrals. We made this one here at HubSpot. Download it here (it comes with four other cover letter templates , too).

As you can see in the picture above, the first paragraph of the cover letter is dedicated entirely to acknowledging the circumstances of your applying: You know someone who works there — no harm in that. But there might be harm in not mentioning it to the hiring manager. Telling the reader about your connection at the company shows you're aware and confident of the actions you take to get the opportunities you're interested in.

Ultimately, it's better than the recruiter hearing about your employee connection from somebody else.

As for the rest of the cover letter, treat your message the same way you would if you had applied with no connection from within. Your skills and successes are no less important because of your internal referral.

Template 5: Photo Letterhead Cover Letter

The cover letter template above was designed by Microsoft Office, and as comprehensive as it looks, it's completely free to download and modify.

As it looks right now, this cover letter contains about half photo, half text. Feel free to shrink (and change) the image to give yourself more room to tell your story. Of course, a nice washed-out image that expresses who you are can be part of that story ...

Template 6: Digital Creative Cover Letter

This sixth template is perfect for the applicant who wants to emphasize the many different digital channels they areon. This template goes well with a resume of the same format.

As you personalize this letter with your own experience, make note of the social networks and industry software included in this template. You'll see there’s additional space along the top to add your LinkedIn and personal website to fill with your own information.

You can improve upon this template by formatting your most important highlights and accomplishments with bullet points. This will make the document easier to read for the hiring manager and emphasizes the value you provide.

Template 7: Marketing Manager Cover Letter

Our seventh cover letter comes from Monster.com. This cover letter, shown above, is focused specifically on a marketing role.

Notice how the writer includes references to important marketing metrics and terminology. If you're applying to a data-driven role, you might not want to fill the page with a story of your experience in paragraph form, like Template 1 does at the beginning of this article. Instead, consider highlighting three (or four, or five) of your successes that you believe the hiring manager would resonate most with, in bulleted form.

As a marketing professional, breaking up your letter with bulleted details like the ones above shows a respect for the hiring manager's limited time — a mentality that all marketers must understand when communicating with a brand's audience.

Template 8: Career Day Follow-Up Cover Letter

This is a unique kind of cover letter from Princeton University.

LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Monster, and Indeed might take the lion's share of your job searches online, but still some employment opportunities come out of a trade show, job fair, or similar networking event. For those occurrences, you have the follow-up cover letter template above.

This cover letter has everything you need to help an employer recall a conversation you had with him/her at a career fair. As you can see in the second paragraph, the letter is particularly useful to people who are about to graduate college.

Template 9: Logo and Watermarked Cover Letter

Here's another cover letter template from Microsoft Office. This one has a light touch of color in the design just above the letterhead, but make no mistake — the template caters to any professional looking to make a good first impression on their future employer.

Don't let the logo space on the top-right of the page confuse you. This can be the logo of the company to which you're applying — to quickly get the attention of the recruiter — or your own logo. Perhaps you freelance on the side or simply like branding yourself. This cover letter template is meant for customization.

Template 10: Data Scientist Cover Letter

This is our second template from Princeton University. While this is focused on a data scientist role, it is an excellent template to use for students applying to jobs prior to graduation.

The text emphasizes how the applicant’s academic research and projects makes them an ideal candidate for the position. The format is also simple enough to submit as a pdf, as text in an email message or an application text box.

Template 11: Business Cover Letter

The cover letter template above is perfect for entry- and mid-level marketers who want to show a little extra professionalism in their opening note to a potential employer.

The multi-colored header (you can change the color if you wish) shows just the right amount of creativity and can go quite well with a resume of the same style. If you don't have enough experience to fill the entire page, don't worry. Feel free to write to a length you think is representative of who you are and what the hiring manager wants to see.

No matter how long your final cover letter is, the above template is your opportunity to show your attention to detail — from your contact information in the top header, to the personalized address line where you can include the name of the hiring manager. Like we said, "to whom it may concern" is pretty outdated, anyway.

Template 12: Entry-Level Cover Letter

The cover letter template above, written by HubSpot, is specifically designed for entry-level applicants.

When you only have a few years experience, it's important to display how you gained your skills and what you learned from your education or internships. Additionally, it's important to mention why you want to work at the company you're applying to.

No matter your experience, the template above will help you decide what skills you want to highlight and flesh out in your cover letter.

You can download it here (it comes with four other cover letter templates , too).

Template 13: Healthcare Cover Letter

Additionally, phrases like "I'd love to put my skills to work for your clinic" and "Please contact me at your convenience and let me know how I can help you" focus on what the business will gain as a result of hiring the applicant, rather than what the applicant is looking to gain.

Template 14: Freelance Cover Letter

If you're looking for freelance work, your biggest goal is to get your strengths across quickly, so busy clients won't pass by your cover letter entirely. Additionally, if you're sending out multiple cover letters to different clients, you'll want to target each one to that client's unique goals.

For instance, if one client is looking for SEO-optimized content related to marketing, you'll want to highlight past experience writing marketing content; this will change if, for instance, the client is looking for fitness content.

For this reason, it's a good idea to structure your cover letter so you start with a) past credentials or references, and b) bullet-point information related to the client's goal, as shown in the cover letter above.

Template 15: Director Cover Letter

In the cover letter above, the candidate does a good job outlining how she succeeded in a leadership role previously: "For the past five years, I have successfully developed and maintained all data systems, including schedules and records for a business employing more than 100 people."

You'll want to demonstrate how your skills align with a Director position — both through organization and leadership — and, when possible, where you received recognition for your hard work (i.e. "I earned an award for Most Valuable Administrative Staff Member").

Write a Winning Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is easier said than done. Don't hesitate to spend a lot of time writing and editing it. Tap into the incredible potential of AI tools, such as the HubSpot paragraph rewriter , to infuse each paragraph with a flawless touch of excellence. Or, ask a friend or family member to read it over and give you feedback. If the recruiter does end up reading it, you'll be thankful you did.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in November 2014 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

Don't forget to share this post!

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How To Write A Job Application Letter (With Examples)

• Best Business Salutations
• Letter of Introduction
• Close a Business Letter
• Job Application Letter
• Business Letter Layout
• To Whom It May Concern
• Letter Of Interest
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Find a Job You Really Want In

While applying to jobs, you might be asked to provide a job application letter (sometimes referred to as a cover letter) along with your resume. A resume outlines your professional skills and experience, and a job application letter explains why you are an ideal candidate for the position you’re applying to.

You can think of this as a strictly formatted professional letter that gives hiring managers a sense of your individual qualities prior to a job interview.

This article outlines the essential details and formatting for a job application letter. You’ll learn how to write a concise and engaging letter that will increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

Key Takeaways:

A job application letter can also be known as a cover letter. It is a way to introduce how your skills and experience are a good match for the job.

A job application letter should have your contact information, employer contact information, and a salutation,

A job application application letter should have an introductory paragraph, middle paragraphs that explain your qualifications, and a closing paragraph.

Use specific experiences with quantifiable results to show how your skills were successfully put into action.

Make sure to do your research and edit your letter before submitting.

Tips for writing a job application letter

Job application letter format, what’s the difference between a cover letter and a job application letter, dos and don’ts for writing a job application letter.

• Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

If you’ve ever asked for advice on the job application process, you’ve likely heard the phrase “sell yourself” a million times over. This means that you should highlight your skills and achievements in a way that will pique a hiring manager ’s interest and make them pause over your application.

You might feel overwhelmed in the grand scheme of online applications, application/ cover letters , letters of intent , and interviews. It’s a lot to balance, especially if you have no experience with any of the things listed.

Remember to take everything one step at a time and review some helpful tips for writing a polished and engaging job application letter:

Tailor the application letter to each job. Your letter should address key points in the job description from the listing, as well as how you can apply your knowledge and experience to the position. You want to emphasize why you are the best candidate for this specific job.

Don’t copy information straight from your resume. Your resume is meant to act as a formal record of your professional experience, education, and accomplishments. The job application letter is where you highlight a few particular details from your resume, and use them to demonstrate how your experience can apply to the job.

Follow the business letter format. These letters have very strict formatting rules, to ensure that they appear as professional to hiring managers. A poorly formatted letter could prevent employers from taking your application seriously.

Proofread. Hiring managers will definitely overlook letters riddled with proofreading mistakes. Read your letter several times over to fix any grammar, punctuation, or spelling errors. You could ask someone else to look over it afterwards or run it through any number of online grammar check programs.

Decide on printing and mailing your letter or sending it in an email. An application letter sent through email requires a subject line that details your purpose for writing— consider “[job title], [your name].” The placement of your contact information is also different depending on the medium . In a hard copy, this goes at the top of your letter, as a header. In an email, it goes below your signature.

The following formatting information can be used as a guideline while drafting your own job application letter, with an example for both a printed/mailed letter and a letter sent through email.

Your contact information

Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer contact information

First paragraph

Middle paragraphs

This section should be about one to three paragraphs, discussing your various qualifications for the job. This is where you really emphasize what you could bring to the company and how you might fit into the work environment. It might be necessary to do some additional research about the company, to lend more specificity to your letter.

Final paragraph

Ending a cover letter might be a challenge, as you try to wrap up all the details about why you’re the most well-qualified employee on the planet. Let that confidence carry over into your concluding paragraph.

Sincerely/Best,

Job application letter example – printed and mailed

Robin Gomez 37 Southwest Avenue Gainesville, FL 12345 365-123-4567 [email protected] October 20, 2020 Ms. Martha Waters Hiring Manager Blue Swamp Publishing 27 Archer Street Gainesville, FL 67890 Dear Ms. Waters, My resume is attached in response to your advertisement for an editorial assistant . The job description aligns with my interest in editing short fiction, and I believe my experience and skills match what you’re looking for. This past year, I interned with the Editing, Design and Production department at Gator University Press. Over the course of two semesters, I interacted with academic texts at various stages before publication. I’m comfortable proofreading and copyediting manuscripts, as well as adding typesetting codes in Microsoft Word. I have also previously worked on the staff of Writers Student Literary Magazine in Jacksonville, FL , as the Fiction and Website Editor, as well as the head of the Proofreading Team. I played a significant role in the publication of six issues of the magazine, across a two year period (including print and online editions). My qualifications beyond this include experience in team-oriented settings and proficiency in creative and academic writing. I would love the opportunity to speak with you about how I can further contribute to Blue Swamp Publishing! Please feel free to contact me on my cell at 365-123-4567 if you have questions or to set up an interview. Sincerely, Robin Gomez

Job application letter example – emailed

Subject Line: Victoria Caruso – Public Relations Assistant Dear Ms. Janet Wang, I was excited when my colleague Rachel Smith told me that you were looking for a public relations assistant with a background in graphic design. She suggested that I reach out to you about the position, since I believe that my experience aligns well with what you are seeking at Trademark Agency. I worked alongside Rachel as a brand ambassador at a small graphic design company for three years, where I excelled in project management, strategy development, and client communication. This past spring, I played a significant role in designing the website for an up-and-coming multicultural women’s organization and publicizing their first few public events. Along with my experience and personal qualities, I prioritize: Expanding company recognition and designing unique brand details Managing media, press, and public relations issues for companies Developing company communication strategies Please see my attached resume for additional details about my career achievements. I hope to learn more about Trademark Agency’s goals for the coming year. You can contact me on my cell at 319-333-3333 or via email at [email protected]. Sincerely, Victoria Caruso 15th Avenue N Iowa City, Iowa 52240 319-333-3333 [email protected]

A cover letter normally is attached with a resume for a specific job opening, whereas a job application letter can be submitted independently. As already stated, a job application letter can also be known as a cover letter. Format wise, there are a lot of similarities.

However, a job application letter can also be more detailed than a cover a letter. Usually a cover letter acts a quick introduction to a resume when a candidate applies for a specific job opening.

Meanwhile, you can submit a job application letter to a company even if there are no job openings. In this case, you would provide more detail about yourself and your qualifications. Due to this, job application letters tend to be a little longer than the average cover letter.

Now that we’ve gone through the basic formatting for a job application letter and a few examples of what one might look like, how can we condense all that information into digestible pieces?

Refer to these lists of “dos” and “don’ts” to help you through your drafting process:

Explain what you can bring to the company. Consider: how is your experience relevant to what the hiring manager is looking for?

Discuss your skills. Pick out a few skills listed in your resume and describe how you have utilized them in the workplace.

Give specific examples to support your experience. Is there a major project you worked on at your last job ? Did you accomplish something significant in your previous position? Including examples of these things in your letter will add new, specific content to your application and make you more interesting.

Edit your letter thoroughly. Read your letter a couple times, pass it off to someone to look over, run it through an online grammar check. Make sure it’s free of any errors.

Don’t focus on what the job can do for you. While it might seem nice to write that a job is your dream job or that you’ve always wanted to work with a company, it can read as vague flattery. Remember, this letter is about your qualifications.

Don’t list your current or previous job description. Your education and work experience certainly have value, but don’t just list your degrees and places you’ve worked at. Explained what you learned from those experiences and how they’ve made you a strong employee.

Don’t paste directly from your resume. A job application letter is meant to add to your value as a candidate, not just reiterate the same information repeatedly. Use your resume as a guide , but expand on especially relevant details.

Don’t submit an unedited letter. Before an employer ever meets you, they see your application and your job application letter. You don’t want grammar errors and misspelled words to make a bad first impression, so make sure to edit your draft multiple times.

Armed with these tips, guidelines, and examples, you’ll be able to draft your job application letter more confidently and send them off to potential employers knowing that you’re one step closer to employment.

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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Letter Opening Examples: Greet Like a Professional in 2024

As the saying goes, you only get one chance to make a good first impression. This is especially true when it comes to letter writing. The opening of your letter sets the tone for the rest of the communication and can greatly impact the reader’s perception of you and your message. That’s why it’s important to know how to greet like a professional.

In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to open a letter and provide you with examples of how to do it right. By mastering the art of letter opening, you can convey professionalism, build rapport, and establish credibility with your reader.

So why is a proper letter opening so important? First and foremost, it helps to capture the reader’s attention and make them feel valued. It sets the tone for a positive and productive relationship with the reader, reducing the risk of misunderstanding or miscommunication.

Furthermore, greeting like a professional can enhance your credibility and establish trust with your reader. By using a formal and respectful tone, you can demonstrate that you take the relationship seriously and are committed to maintaining a professional level of communication.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about letter opening, including:

• Common mistakes to avoid when greeting in a letter
• Tips for crafting a professional and engaging opening
• Examples of effective letter openings for different types of correspondence

So whether you’re sending a business proposal, a formal inquiry, or a personal letter, this guide will help you greet like a professional and make a strong first impression.

The Basic Components of a Letter Opening

When it comes to crafting business letters, it’s important to ensure that you have all of the necessary components in place to make a great first impression. The opening section of your letter is no exception, and there are four key elements that you should always include:

The Heading

The heading of your letter is the first thing that your recipient will see, so it’s crucial to get it right. The heading should contain your name or your company’s name and address, as well as the date that the letter was written. This information should be positioned at the top of the page, ideally in the center or on the left-hand side. Make sure that the font is easy to read, and that the text is properly aligned.

The date is an essential component of your letter opening. It provides your recipient with important information about when the letter was sent, and it also gives your letter a sense of urgency. The date should be positioned directly beneath the heading, and it should be written in a clear and easy-to-read format. Depending on your location, you may need to adjust the date format to reflect local customs.

The Recipient’s Name and Address

Before you start to write the body of your letter, you need to address it to the correct person. This means including the recipient’s name and address in the opening section of the letter. The recipient’s name should be positioned on the line directly below the date, and it should be written in a formal style (e.g. Mr. John Smith). The full address of the recipient should be positioned below the name, and it should be written in a clear and legible format.

The Salutation

Finally, you need to include a salutation in your letter opening. This is a greeting that should be tailored to the recipient, and it can range from formal (e.g. Dear Mr. Smith) to informal (e.g. Hi John). The salutation should be positioned directly beneath the recipient’s address, and it should be followed by a colon or a comma. Make sure that you double-check the spelling of the recipient’s name before you finalize your letter.

The opening section of your letter is an important opportunity to make a great first impression. By including the heading, the date, the recipient’s name and address, and a personalized salutation, you can ensure that your letter gets off to the best possible start.

Common Greeting Styles

When it comes to writing professional letters, greeting the recipient appropriately is crucial. The opening sets the tone for the rest of the letter and can impact how the reader perceives the message. Below are some common greeting styles to use depending on the situation.

Formal and semi-formal greetings

Formal greetings are typically used for business-related letters or any other communication that requires a high level of professionalism. These greetings tend to use full titles and last names to address the recipient. Here are a few examples of formal greetings:

• Dear Mr. Smith,
• Dear Dr. Johnson,

Semi-formal greetings, on the other hand, are slightly less formal than a formal greeting, but still maintain a professional tone. They may use first names with an honorific or full name without an honorific. Here are a few examples of semi-formal greetings:

• Dear Professor Garcia,
• Dear Reverend Lee,

Informal greetings

Informal greetings are typically used in personal correspondence or with individuals that you have a friendly relationship with. These greetings tend to be more casual and may include the use of first names or even nicknames. Here are a few examples of informal greetings:

Greetings for specific situations

Depending on the context of the letter, there may be specific greeting styles that are appropriate. Here are a few examples of how to greet someone in specific situations:

• Job applications : Use a formal greeting with the recipient’s full name, such as  Dear Hiring Manager Smith,
• Business proposals : Use a formal or semi-formal greeting with the recipient’s full name, such as  Dear Dr. Johnson,  or  Dear Ms. Davis,
• Thank you notes : Use an informal greeting with the recipient’s first name, such as  Hi John,

It’s important to keep in mind that the greeting sets the tone for the entire letter, so choose a greeting that is appropriate for the context and relationship with the recipient. Using the right greeting can help ensure a positive and professional correspondence.

Avoiding Common Greeting Mistakes

When it comes to greeting someone in a professional setting, there are a few common mistakes that people make. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Using incorrect titles or names

It is important to ensure that you are addressing the recipient of your letter correctly. Always double-check the spelling of their name and their professional title. If you are unsure of their title, it is better to ask for clarification than to make assumptions.

Overusing certain phrases like “To Whom It May Concern”

While it may seem like a safe option, overusing certain generic phrases like “To Whom It May Concern” can come across as impersonal and lazy. Instead, try to find out the name of the person you are addressing your letter to.

Misusing informal greetings

When writing to someone in a professional capacity, it is important to use a formal greeting. Avoid using familiar or overly casual phrases like “Hey there” or “What’s up?”.

Other pitfalls to avoid

In addition to the above, there are other common mistakes people make when greeting someone in a professional setting. For example:

• Using overly flowery language
• Launching straight into the body of the letter without a greeting
• Using an inappropriate tone for the situation

By being mindful of these common pitfalls, you can ensure that your letter opening is professional and effective. Remember, the greeting is the first impression you make on the recipient, so it is important to get it right.

Examples of Formal Greetings

When it comes to professional communication, the way you greet your recipient is of utmost importance. A formal greeting sets the tone for the entire message and can help establish your credibility and professionalism. Here are three examples of formal greetings that you can use in different scenarios:

Addressing Government Officials

When writing to government officials, it’s important to be respectful and formal. Use proper titles and avoid using any contractions or slang.

Dear [Title and Last Name],

I am writing to you regarding [purpose of the letter]. As a [position], I am sincerely concerned about [issue] and believe that [proposed solution]. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this matter further with you.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

Sincerely, [Your Full Name]

Writing to High-Ranking Executives

When communicating with high-ranking executives, it’s essential to demonstrate your professionalism and respect. You should address them using their proper titles, and avoid using a first-name basis unless invited to do so.

I am writing to you regarding [specific topic or issue]. As a [position or title], I am excited to share with you [purpose of message].

I would be honored to have the opportunity to [action request, meeting, or phone call] at your earliest convenience.

Thank you for your valuable time and consideration.

Respectfully, [Your Full Name]

Addressing Someone You’ve Never Met Before

If you are addressing someone you have never met before, it’s important to start with a formal greeting to establish your professionalism and respect. It’s a good idea to use their proper title, and use “Dear” followed by their full name.

I am writing to you regarding [specific reason for writing]. As an expert in [related field], I believe that [purpose of message].

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at [contact information].

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Examples of Semi-Formal Greetings

When it comes to professional correspondence, it’s important to choose the right greeting based on the context of the message. Here are some examples of semi-formal greetings for different situations:

Writing to a Colleague or Business Associate

Dear [Name],

Hello [Name],

Addressing Someone You’ve Met Before But Don’t Know Well

Dear [Title] [Last Name],

Dear [First Name] [Last Name],

Hello [Title] [Last Name],

Hi [First Name],

Greetings for Job Applications

Dear Hiring Manager,

Dear [Company Name] HR Team,

To Whom It May Concern,

When applying for a job, it’s always best to research who will be receiving your application and address them by name if possible. However, if you’re unsure who the right person is, a general greeting like “To Whom It May Concern” will still be appropriate.

Remember, while it’s important to be professional in your greetings, you also want to make sure you’re being friendly and approachable. A well-crafted greeting can help set the tone for the rest of your message, so take the time to choose the right one for every situation.

Examples of Informal Greetings

When it comes to informal letters, it’s important to keep the greeting friendly and personable. Here are some examples of informal greetings that you can use when writing to a friend or family member, or when addressing someone you have a casual relationship with.

Greetings for Personal Letters

• Dear ___________ (insert name),

Writing to a Friend or Family Member

• How have you been,
• Long time no see,
• It’s been a while,

Addressing Someone You Have a Casual Relationship With

• Good to see you,
• What’s new,

Remember, an informal letter should be relaxed and conversational. Don’t be afraid to use contractions, slang, and a more informal tone to make your writing sound natural and personable. Greet your recipient like a professional with these informal greeting examples.

Using the Right Tone in Your Greetings

The way you greet someone sets the tone for the entire letter, email, or message. It’s important to adjust your tone for different recipients based on your relationship, purpose, and the message you want to convey. Here are some tips on using the right tone in your greetings:

Adjusting your tone for different recipients

• Formal vs. informal: Determine the level of formality that’s appropriate for the occasion and recipient. A formal tone is more suitable for business, academic, or official correspondence, while a casual tone works better for personal, friendly, or casual communication. Avoid being too stiff or too familiar.
• First-time vs. recurring: If you’re introducing yourself for the first time, you want to make a good impression and establish your credibility. Use a polite and respectful tone to show your professionalism and interest. If you’re addressing someone you’ve met before, you can use a more relaxed and friendly tone to build rapport and connection.
• Superior vs. subordinate: If you’re writing to someone who outranks you or has more authority, show a level of deference and respect. Use formal titles, such as “Sir,” “Madam,” or “Dr.,” and avoid being too informal or familiar. If you’re writing to someone who works for you or reports to you, be mindful of your tone and avoid being condescending or rude.

Appropriate use of humor and casual language

Humor and casual language can add personality and warmth to your greetings, but they also carry risks of misinterpretation and offense. Here are some guidelines for using humor and casual language:

• Know your audience: Understand the recipient’s cultural background, sense of humor, and level of familiarity with you. What may seem funny or friendly to you may be inappropriate or offensive to them. Avoid using jokes or slang that may be misunderstood or irrelevant.
• Keep it light: Use humor and casual language sparingly and appropriately. Don’t overwhelm or distract from the main purpose of your message. Avoid using humor or casual language in serious or sensitive topics, such as apologies, reprimands, or condolences.
• Be authentic: Don’t force yourself to use humor or casual language if it’s not your natural style. You don’t have to be funny or witty to be likable or professional. Focus on being clear, concise, and respectful.

Conveying the right level of respect and professionalism

Your greeting should convey the level of respect and professionalism that’s expected or required based on the context and relationship. Here are some tips on conveying the right level of respect and professionalism:

• Use appropriate titles and salutations: Use the recipient’s correct title, such as “Ms.,” “Mr.,” “Dr.,” or “Prof.,” if applicable.

Sample Letter Openings

Whether you’re writing a formal business letter, a cover letter for a job application, or an informal letter to a friend, the opening sets the tone for the entire message. Here are some examples of professional greetings to help you start your letter on the right foot.

Formal Business Letter

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

If you’re writing a formal business letter to a recipient you don’t know personally, use their last name and a formal title such as Mr. or Ms. If you know the recipient’s gender-neutral pronouns, use those instead. For example, “Dear Alex Johnson,” or “Dear Mx. Last Name.”

Cover Letter for a Job Application

In a cover letter for a job application, you want to address the person who will be reading your application. If the job posting doesn’t provide a specific name, “Dear Hiring Manager” is a safe bet. If you do have a name, use the same format as you would for a formal business letter.

Informal Letter to a Friend

When writing an informal letter to a friend, feel free to start with a more casual greeting. “Hey” or “Hi” are appropriate openings. You can also use a nickname or an inside joke if you have a close relationship with the recipient. The tone of the letter should be friendly, so let your personality shine through.

No matter who you’re writing to or what the purpose of your letter is, starting off with a professional and appropriate greeting is key to establishing a positive tone for your message.

Tips for Writing a Memorable Greeting

When it comes to crafting a memorable greeting in a letter, it’s important to add personal touches that make the recipient feel special. One way to accomplish this is by including specific details or anecdotes that show you know the person well.

Another effective technique is to use storytelling to engage the reader and capture their attention. By sharing a brief story or anecdote related to the content of your letter, you can create an emotional connection with the reader and make your message more memorable.

Ultimately, the goal of any letter opening is to make a good first impression. This can often be achieved by using a combination of personal touches and creative writing techniques. So take your time and create a greeting that truly reflects your professionalism and personality.

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Planters is looking to hire drivers to cruise in its Nutmobile: What to know about the job

Driving the nutmobile could be as smooth as peanut butter. hopefully, there won't be too many traffic jams. do you have what it takes to escort mr. peanut across the country.

Planters needs to fill a new position, but the job might drive folks a bit nutty.

The company is looking for three people to fill the position for a year, from June 2024 to June 2025. The lucky three will be "affectionately known" as Peanutters. Not only will they escort Mr. Peanut across the country , but they'll do so while driving the 26-foot-long Nutmobile and planning events.

“We are thrilled to be taking applications for our third official class of Peanutters,” said Patrick Horbas, Planters' director of marketing, said in a statement. "From being the grand marshals of parades to making appearances at community events and grand openings, our Peanutters are fun-loving ambassadors of the iconic PLANTERS ® brand, bringing smiles and joy to millions of people they meet every year.”

A 'rare and coveted' job: Oscar Mayer seeks full-time drivers of the iconic Wienermobile

What is the Nutmobile?

According to the press release, the Nutmobile is a "rolling public relations firm on wheels."

Not only is it a mobile PR firm, but the vehicle itself is basically a giant peanut on wheels. 

How to apply:

Acording to the press release, anyone who is interested in filling the position needs to meet the following criteria:

• Graduated with a bachelor's degree, preferably in communications, marketing, advertising, public relations or a related field
• A desire to travel
• A valid driver's license
• Strong organization and time management skills
• A "proficiency in nut-related puns is a must."

Those interested in applying need to turn in a resume, cover letter and short video describing why they would be the perfect Peanutter by April 14, 2024.

According to the job listing, people who do apply need to be flexible.

"One day will be used as a travel day from location to location, if that distance is not far then an event can be scheduled on this day," states the listing. "The remainder of the 4 days would be used for a combination of scheduled events and administrative work or interviews."

Job requirements:

The Peanutters will be required to work a  5-day, 40-hour workweek.

The listing also states that the Peanutters should plan at least one event per day. If it's short, the Peanutters can either schedule another event or do administrative work.

According to the press release. a few other responsibilities are:

• Representing the Planters brand in media interviews and appearances with local radio, TV and digital publications.
• Entertain fans all over the country at local events.
• Engage with consumers and ensure everyone has a "nutty time" and a positive experience with the NUTmobile and Mr. Peanut.
• Volunteering for local communities

Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. She has covered various topics, from local businesses and government in her hometown, Miami, to tech and pop culture.   You can follow her on  X, formerly known as Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok : @juliamariegz.

• Green Economy
• Announcement

Job Opening: Policy Researcher/ Lead Policy Researcher, Green Economy Program (Associate or Full Specialist)

Position overview.

Position title: Policy Researcher Salary range: The UC academic salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step at appointment. See the following table(s) for the current salary scale(s) for this position:  https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/2023-24/july-2023-acad-salary-scales/t24-b.pdf . A reasonable estimate for this position is $70,500 – $132,700. Percent time:  100% Anticipated start:  Summer 2024 Position duration: Two (2) years with the possibility of renewal based on funding and performance

Job #JPF04366 Institute for Research on Labor and Employment / VC Res Organized Research Units / UC Berkeley

APPLICATION WINDOW

Open date: April 8, 2024 Next review date: Monday, Apr 22, 2024 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee. Final date:  Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Labor center overview.

Founded in 1964, the UC Berkeley Labor Center works on the most pressing economic challenges affecting working families in California and communities across the country. The Labor Center Green Economy Program conducts research and analysis on issues of job creation, quality, access, and training in the emergent green economy. In addition, we provide technical assistance to state agencies, labor, and other stakeholders who are engaged in developing and implementing policy related to energy and climate change in California and nationally. A core objective of our work is to ensure that the transition to clean energy empowers workers and improves labor market equity, rather than degrading it. We believe this is an essential strategy for an efficient and effective response to climate change.

Position Overview

The UC Berkeley Labor Center, at the Institute for Research on Labor and Employment (IRLE), UC Berkeley, has an opening for a Policy Researcher and a Lead Policy Researcher in its Green Economy Program. Both the Policy Researcher and Lead Policy Researcher positions may be hired at the Associate or Full Specialist rank, depending on years of work experience and educational background.

Policy Researcher

The policy researcher will contribute to the Program’s research on workforce standards and strategies related to the energy transition, and worker-led approaches to economic development and industrial policy aimed at building the green economy. The position will involve significant collaboration with unions, environmental organizations, and community-based organizations, and other stakeholders at the state and federal level to advance a worker-led clean energy agenda.

Responsibilities Include:

• Conduct policy research and analysis, and collaborate on developing new policy models, in the area of workforce standards, economic development, and industrial policy related to the energy transition
• Serve as co-author and/or lead author on policy research reports and briefing memos, and draft op-eds and public testimony
• Contribute to team’s work providing technical assistance to stakeholders, policymakers, and media on policy debates surrounding labor and the energy transition
• Support Program Leads with outreach to partner organizations, build and strengthen relationships, and facilitate collaboration
• Work closely with the Program’s team in identifying new research projects and opportunities for collaborating with field partners
• Support Program Leads with developing curriculum and delivering trainings for unions, worker advocates, and other stakeholders
• Supervise and mentor student workers

Lead Policy Researcher

The lead policy researcher will lead and expand the Program’s California-focused policy research on workforce standards and strategies related to the energy transition, and worker-led approaches to economic development and industrial policy aimed at building the green economy. The position will also involve significant collaboration with unions, environmental organizations, community-based organizations, and government officials/staff and other stakeholders at the local, state and federal level to advance a worker-led clean energy agenda.

• Serve as lead author on policy research reports and briefing memos, and draft op-eds and public testimony
• Provide technical assistance to stakeholders, policymakers, and media on policy debates surrounding labor and the energy transition
• Conduct outreach to partner organizations, build and strengthen relationships, and facilitate collaboration
• Contribute to the Program’s trainings for unions, worker advocates, and other stakeholders
• Contribute to funding proposals

The Labor Center is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Unit :  https://laborcenter.berkeley.edu/

QUALIFICATIONS

Basic qualifications (required at time of application), policy researcher & lead policy researcher.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent international degree

Additional qualifications (required at time of start)

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent international degree and at least five (5) years of professional experience OR
• Master’s degree or equivalent international degree and at least three (3) years of professional experience
• For those who are not US citizens or permanent residents, a legal permit that allows work in the United States (such as a US visa that allows employment) is required by the start date of the position. The Labor Center is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent international degree and at least ten (10) years of professional experience. OR
• Master’s degree or equivalent international degree and at least eight (8) years of professional experience. OR
• PhD or equivalent international degree and at least two (2) years of professional experience

Preferred qualifications

• Master’s or equivalent international degree with three (3) years experience in analyzing public policies at the federal, state, or local level (can include experience before the degree)
• Experience contributing to research on public policy, including tracking legislation and regulations, analyzing and comparing key concepts, and assessing promising policy models
• Familiarity with labor standards and/or climate and energy policies and/or industrial policy and/or economic development, with an understanding of core issues for workers and unions
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with unions and other stakeholders, such as environmental organizations and industry/employer associations
• Demonstrated facilitation and collaboration skills
• Strong policy writing skills
• Demonstrated experience in managing projects independently, meeting project timelines, managing stakeholder relationships, and working discreetly with confidential information
• Master’s or equivalent international degree, with five (5) years experience in analyzing public policies at the federal, state, or local level (can include experience before the degree)
• Demonstrated track record of conducting high-quality research on public policy models in the US or abroad, including tracking legislation and regulations, analyzing and comparing key concepts, and identifying and developing promising policy models
• A strong grounding in labor standards and climate/energy policies and/or a strong grounding in current and emerging models of industrial policy and/or economic development, with an understanding of core issues for workers and unions
• Demonstrated ability to work with and bring together unions and other stakeholders, such as environmental organizations and industry/employer associations, and experience engaging these stakeholders
• Strong facilitation and collaboration skills
• Excellent policy writing skills

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter – Please state in your cover letter if you would like to be considered for the Policy Researcher position, the Lead Policy Researcher position, or both.
• Policy Writing Sample #1
• Policy Writing Sample #2
• Open the Google Doc (linked above)
• Select File > Download > Microsoft Word (.docx)
• Open the Word Doc, and complete the requested information
• Save the document as a PDF (rename the document with your name in the subject line)
• Upload the PDF document to your AP Recruit Application

Reference requirements

• 3-5 required (contact information only)

Apply link: https://aprecruit.berkeley.edu/JPF04366

Help contact:   [email protected]

ABOUT UC BERKELEY

UC Berkeley is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The excellence of the institution requires an environment in which the diverse community of faculty, students, and staff are welcome and included. Successful candidates will demonstrate knowledge and skill related to ensuring equity and inclusion in the activities of their academic position (e.g., teaching, research, and service, as applicable).

The University of California, Berkeley is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see:  http://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000376/NondiscrimAffirmAct

In searches when letters of reference are required all letters will be treated as confidential per University of California policy and California state law. Please refer potential referees, including when letters are provided via a third party (i.e., dossier service or career center), to the  UC Berkeley statement of confidentiality  prior to submitting their letter.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

JOB LOCATION

Berkeley, CA – Eligible for 3 days remote

How immigrants are helping boost the U.S. job market without affecting inflation

Blockbuster job growth continues to power the U.S. economy, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting 303,000 payrolls added in March .

Usually, such strong growth might signal that inflation could pick up. If employers see more demand for goods and services, they need to hire more workers — and if there aren’t enough workers, they have to increase pay, which increases the overall cost of running the business.

But while annual price growth, at more than 3%, remains above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, it is still well below the 9% peak seen in the summer of 2022.

Economists increasingly believe that the post-pandemic surge in immigration is a key reason the economy has been able to grow steadily without pushing inflation higher, as the new arrivals have helped employers fill roles at levels of pay that have kept a lid on overall price growth.

In a note to clients published Friday, titled “Why we have both strong growth and lower inflation,” Goldman Sachs chief U.S. economist David Mericle said rising immigration had boosted labor force growth. As a result, the strong demand that consumers continue to exhibit elsewhere is unlikely to raise prices by much, “if at all,” he said.

In fact, so far, measures of labor market “tightness,” like wages, “have continued to fall or move sideways, not rise,” Mericle said.

“Won’t stronger growth prevent inflation from falling or even reignite it?” he wrote. “We don’t think so.”

The Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan federal agency, was the first to cite the immigration surge that began in 2022 as the primary factor helping to expand the overall size of the U.S. labor force.

This year, the agency increased its projection of how large the U.S. labor force could be in 2033 by 5.2 million people. Most of that increase is expected to be a result of higher projected net immigration.

The Brookings Institution, a nonpartisan think tank, came to a similar conclusion earlier this month, saying the economy can now tolerate a more brisk pace of job growth without adding to cost concerns.“Faster population and labor force growth has meant that employment could grow more quickly than previously believed without adding to inflationary pressures,” Brookings said.

Wendy Edelberg, a former Federal Reserve economist now serving as director of Brookings’ Hamilton Project, told NBC News the net effect of immigration on inflation is not entirely obvious — but is likely marginal. Indeed, Fed Chair Jay Powell has expressed similar observations, saying the effect of the new wave of arrivals is “broadly neutral.”

What is clear, Edelberg said, is that the immigration surge will allow the economy to tolerate higher levels of job growth without overheating.

“Without immigration, if I’d seen an increase of 300,000, I would have been utterly baffled that wages were not higher,” she said, citing the March jobs report released on Friday.

Wage data shows the annual pace of average hourly pay growth has declined to 4.1% in March after hitting a post-pandemic peak of 5.9% in March 2022.

If the supply and demand for labor were truly out of sync, the pace of wage growth would be much higher, likely translating into higher overall inflation.

Instead, thanks to the immigration surge, businesses in the aggregate can tap into the newly growing labor pool to meet continued demand for their goods and services, without having to raise wages significantly to compete for workers.

For many parts of the economy, from federal Social Security payments all the way down to local businesses that may be looking for workers or new customers, immigration is usually a net good, Edelberg said.

At the same time, it tends to put a strain on state and local budgets , she said.

Immigration now ranks as the most volatile domestic issue facing President Joe Biden, with Gallup survey respondents ranking it as the country’s “most important problem,” the first time it has held that position since 2019. Republicans have called on Biden to take extreme measures to stem the entry of migrants, while former President Donald Trump has referred to them as “not humans” and “animals.”

Big cities like New York and Chicago, meanwhile, have faced crises stemming in part from political stunts by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott that have involved sending migrants to those cities at a pace they’re not equipped to handle.

But while the focus of the debate has been on undocumented immigration, the majority of immigrants arriving are actually authorized to work in the U.S., Edelberg said.

Plus, they’re more likely to spend a greater share of their labor income.

“So they’re increasing the demand for goods and services, and helping to supply labor,” she said. “So the net effect on inflation is actually small.”

Rob Wile is a breaking business news reporter for NBC News Digital.