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The Best Cover Letter Examples That Will Help You Get Hired

Use our list of cover letter examples to help you land more interviews.

By Jamie Thork and Venus Gentile
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If you're wondering how to write a cover letter, you're in the right place! We have some of the best cover letter examples to help you create your own.

It doesn't matter what industry you're in or what level you're at in your career—to get noticed by potential employers, your professional cover letter has to knock their socks off. Writing a good cover letter is about much more than a friendly greeting; it's a tool that lets hiring managers know you're the candidate they've been hoping for.

Given that recruiters and hiring managers are inundated with cover letters, it's essential to create one that stands out. Your cover letter should not only showcase your industry-specific experience, accomplishments, and credentials, but also leave a lasting impression that sets you apart from the competition.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about writing a persuasive cover letter. Then check out our list of some of the best cover letter examples you can tweak to fit your unique situation.

Is a Cover Letter Necessary?

If the job ad calls for a cover letter, yes, it is necessary to include one. Failure to submit one can immediately disqualify you from consideration if it’s explicitly stated that one is required. As a job seeker, you need to demonstrate that you can follow directions. An employer might interpret your missing cover letter as ignoring what was asked of you. Not a good look.

If a job ad doesn’t require a cover letter, you do not need to include one with your application. That said, if the job application has a section for any additional information you would like to share with an employer, it’s highly recommended that you copy and paste the text of your cover letter into this area. The same is true if you’re required to email your application; copy and paste your cover letter into the body of the email.

Culture fit is very high on the list of determining factors that can get you hired, and a good cover letter can mean the difference between getting called in for an interview or not. That’s why we list some of the best cover letter templates—so you don’t have to write one from scratch.

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

Your cover letter format should present your information clearly and concisely- one page at most; three or four paragraphs will suffice. When you look at our list of the best cover letter examples, you’ll see that they range between 200 and 250 words. Any longer, and your efforts risk being wasted.

First, hiring managers and recruiters are busy people who don't have time to read through pages and pages of copy. Second, you should be able to briefly hit your selling points. This may take a few rounds to perfect, but it'll be worth it. Nobody wants you to spend time and energy writing scrolls of copy that a hiring manager won't even bother reading because it's long-winded.

Tips for Writing a Compelling Cover Letter

First, you need to know some basic guidelines for writing your cover letter. All the best cover letter examples we list use these strategies. Follow our tips below to enhance your chances of making a positive impression and moving closer to landing an interview.

1. Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job

Whatever you do, do not rely on a generic cover letter to get noticed. Create a different cover letter for each job to which you're applying. Companies want to feel special like you're applying to their job, not just any old job.

Remember to incorporate keywords and phrases from the job posting. This shows attention to detail and helps your letter pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) that many companies use to screen submissions. Always be specific about your skills and experiences, and directly relate them to the responsibilities and qualifications listed in the job ad.

2. Don't Repeat Your Resume

In your cover letter, you don’t just list facts about your work history—you use emotion and storytelling to add some life to the page. For example, suppose you see on a company’s website that they’re rolling out new products to the international market. In that case, you can talk about how you’ve been involved in several successful global product launches and loved developing marketing campaigns, strengthening your dedication to connecting with customers worldwide.

3. Put Your Personality into Your Cover Letter

Our list of the best cover letter examples gives you a starting point for creating your own. We advise against copying and pasting them to pass them off as your own. Start by choosing a conversational yet professional tone that reflects your natural speaking style. You could share a brief personal story or anecdote that relates to the job or demonstrates your passion for the field. Always use an active voice and vibrant language to convey your enthusiasm and commitment.

5 Steps to Writing a Cover Letter

Before checking out some of our best cover letter examples, it's essential to understand the basic elements of a cover letter and how to incorporate them into your own. Below, we break down a sample cover letter section by section.

1. Start with the Proper Header and Greeting

Begin your cover letter with your and the employer’s contact information in your header, along with the date. This is the standard format for every cover letter.

[Your Full Name]

[City, State, and Zip Code]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager's Name]

[Company Name]

[Street Address]

[City, State, Zip]

Address your cover letter to the hiring manager’s name. If you don’t have this information, research it online or just address it to the hiring manager.

  • Dear Mr. or Ms. [Last Name] / Dear [First & Last Name] / Dear [Hiring Manager]

2. Introduce Yourself with a Strong Opening

The best cover letter examples we list always start with an attention-grabbing introduction. Write a personable, inviting opening paragraph highlighting how your skills are a perfect fit for the company and position.

  • I was so excited to see your product photographer job posting on Monster. I am confident I can support your creative department in producing high-quality product shots for marketing and social media—especially for your highly anticipated upcoming summer catalog.

3. Write a Compelling Hook

As you'll notice, all the best cover letter examples in our list include a hook designed to grab the reader's attention. In the body paragraphs, highlight your past achievements related to the job you're applying for. Always use examples of your accomplishments so employers can see you have a proven track record.

  • I'm skilled at creating images that capture attention on social media. Thousands of my images have appeared on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Twitter, and Tumblr. I play a key role in the visual storytelling and branding of leading consumer product companies and contribute to successful marketing campaigns.

4. Promote Your Skills

Highlight your additional relevant skills, such as computer languages or certifications. Also, demonstrate your expertise by using industry-specific language.

  • I have expert knowledge of Photoshop, InDesign, Lightroom, Bridge, Illustrator, and Capture One Pro; studio and lighting setups; and equipment including ZZY cameras (I currently shoot with an EOS 5D Mark IV). I love learning about and applying the latest advances in photography tools, services, and equipment to enhance photo quality and streamline workflows.

5. End with a Strong Closing

In your closing paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and an interview. Briefly recap your strengths as a candidate, thank the reader for their time, and include your contact information.

  • I would love the opportunity to discuss with you how I can create images that bring your brand's strategic vision to life. I can be reached at (555) 555-5555 or me@photographer.edu. Thank you so much for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind Regards,

[Your Name]

How to Write a Short Cover Letter with Sample

Keeping your cover letter short can work just as well as a longer one. When you keep it brief, you get straight to the point, exactly what busy hiring managers appreciate.

They've got tons of applications to go through, so a short, sharp letter that makes it easy to see why you're the right fit is a breath of fresh air. This short cover letter sample (around 120 words) does the trick by sticking to the essentials and avoiding any rambling.

1. Use the Proper Header and Greeting

The header is crucial, even in a short cover letter, as it sets the professional format of the letter and provides all necessary contact information, making it easy for the hiring manager to identify you. It also helps maintain the formal structure of a business letter.

[Your Full Name]

[City, State, and Zip Code]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager's Name]

[Company Name]

[Street Address]

[City, State, Zip]

Personalizing the salutation using the hiring manager's name (if known) shows attention to detail and personalizes it. If the name isn't known, using "Dear Hiring Manager" remains professional and respectful.

  • Dear Mr. or Ms. [Last Name] / Dear [First & Last Name] / Dear [Hiring Manager]

2. Introduce Yourself with a Strong Opening

Your goal right out of the gate is to get to the point. Tell the hiring manager who you are, what you want, and how you heard about the job. This shows you're not here to waste time and keeps the cover letter short and sweet.

  • I am eager to apply for the sales representative position at [Company's Name], as posted on Monster. With extensive experience in business development and a proven track record in exceeding sales targets, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

3. Write a Compelling Hook and Promote Your Skills

Here's where you brag a bit, but just enough to catch their interest. You throw in a big win, like boosting client numbers, because numbers talk, and you keep it focused on why you'd succeed in this job.

  • In my previous role at [XYZ Company], I spearheaded initiatives that grew our client base by 30% within one year. My expertise in building client relationships and my strategic approach to market analysis align well with the innovative sales strategies at [Company's Name].

4. End with a Strong Closing

Wrap up your cover letter with a nod of thanks and a little nudge about setting up an interview. It's polite but eager, showing you're ready to talk in person, which is exactly where you want to head.

  • Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experiences can drive continued growth and success for [Company's Name].

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Best Cover Letter Examples for all Professions

A professional cover letter is worth all the effort. If you need writing help, check out these sample cover letters for various careers and career levels:

Administrative/Support Cover Letter Examples

Art/Design/Media Cover Letter Examples

Business Cover Letter Examples

Education Cover Letter Examples

Engineering Cover Letter Examples

Finance/Accounting Cover Letter Examples

Health Care Cover Letter Examples

Human Resources Cover Letter Examples

Law Enforcement and Legal Cover Letter Examples

Marketing and PR Cover Letter Examples

Real Estate Cover Letter Examples

Restaurant and Hospitality Cover Letter Examples

Retail Cover Letter Examples

Sales Cover Letter Examples

Science Cover Letter Examples

Student Cover Letter Examples

Technology Cover Letter Examples

Trades Cover Letter Examples

Transportation and Warehousing Cover Letter Examples

Land More Interviews with a Compelling Cover Letter

Use our list of the best cover letter examples to help you create an outstanding application. Then, sign up for a free Monster profile so you can start applying for jobs. Upload your resume, and we’ll help connect you with recruiters looking for skilled candidates. We’ll also send you job alerts and expert career advice to help you find a fulfilling career.

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