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5 Recruiter Cover Letter Samples & Writing Tips in 2024

• Recruiter Cover Letter
• Entry-Level Recruiter
• HR Recruiter
• Technical Recruiter
• Senior Recruiter
• Writing Your Recruiter Cover Letter

It might seem ironic for you to have to write a cover letter since recruiters usually read everyone else’s! But now, you’ll have to show how you’re qualified to find top talent.

You’re essential to the success of any company, serving as gatekeepers who develop an eye for the greatest additions to the company team. Recruiters also do their fair share of paperwork like drafting contracts, non-disclosure agreements, and other documents for the employment process.

You’re probably not pumped about writing a cover letter to complement your recruiter resume , but a recruiter needs to demonstrate their  job skills  like any other professional! Fortunately, we’ve assembled five example recruiter cover letters for your inspiration. Coupled with our AI cover letter generator , you’ll be off to a great start.

Recruiter Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Why this cover letter works

• Anytime you can show you already embody the qualities listed in the job description, do so! Then, quantify them with examples and metrics to provide credibility in your recruiter cover letter.
•  Dig through the  recruiter job description  and company website for flecks of gold that align with your own experiences, such as a program you’re great with, a soft skill you naturally exemplify, or a goal similar to one you’ve previously met.

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Entry-Level Recruiter Cover Letter Example

• Capture that experience like Lila does—detail what skills you applied (in this case, data analysis and reporting), tools you employed (cue Tableau), and the accomplishments and lessons you gathered along the way.

HR Recruiter Cover Letter Example

• Dedicate a line or two of your HR recruiter cover letter’s experience sections to how you used those software programs to effect improvement in the recruitment phases across different workplaces in your career journey. An example could be how Hugo shaves off 32% of onboarding time using DocuSign.

Technical Recruiter Cover Letter Example

• Mind the job description’s tone and mirror it while you present your overlapping personal traits and qualifying abilities. It’s not just about the job—it’s also about the interpersonal workplace dynamic.
• If you’re applying as a technical recruiter, researching the company and studying the job ad is imperative. Your selling points lie in your alignment with industry specifics.

Senior Recruiter Cover Letter Example

• This letter establishes personal connections before presenting the hard qualifications necessary to land a senior role. There’s much to condense, so choose your words wisely!
• Picking which details to include in your senior recruiter cover letter can be intimidating since your professional history is undoubtedly extensive. The key is to research the company and examine the job description for specific needs you can fulfill.    

Is Your Recruiter Resume Ready to Wow?

As a recruiter, you know your resume is the most important document in your job application. Follow our  resume tips  and start building yours now with this easy, breezy interactive resume that you can edit. 

or download as PDF

Beat the Competition with Your Recruiter Cover Letter

Now that you’ve looked at three recruiter cover letter samples, let’s get into some of the broader themes that make them great: Customize your cover letter to the particular job and company, go in-depth with your biggest couple of achievements, and polish your tone.

Step 1: Knowledge is power

Oh, how many generic letters get tossed aside with a sigh. But you want yours to dazzle, and the quickest means to that end is tailoring your cover letter to the  recruiter job listing . Your cover letter shouldn’t read like it could apply to any recruiter position: You want the company to know that you want to work for  them .

A great start is taking some notes while combing through the job description. Jot down anything you find that makes you think, “That’s me!” so that you’ll have a handy list to refer to once you start writing your first draft. Look for specific needs you can fill. Also, research the company—especially its mission statement—so you can show you’re a great fit in that area.

Step 2: Leverage your success

Many people jump into writing their cover letters, only to wind up repeating what they’ve written in their resume—but your potential employer has already skimmed it in bullet-point form.

Instead of repeating your resume’s bullet points, go beyond them to explain why they matter. For good measure, revisit Step 1 to pick the accomplishments most relevant to where you’re applying.

Your recruiter cover letter should explain how one or two accomplishments benefitted your previous company.

• Your resume might mention that you onboarded 5 employees—but how did that increase revenue? 
• Did your work impact retention rates, showing that you improved the work environment? 
• Did you lead an impressive workplace strategy overhaul that left employees quantifiably happier in their positions?

Make sure you shine a spotlight on these sorts of accomplishments!

Step 3: Presentation is key

Imagine you’re conducting an interview with someone to help place them in a job role, and they have good experience and qualifications—but when they talk about themselves, they sound like they don’t even care.

What you say is important, but  so is  how  you say it . The tone and overall message of your recruiter cover letter are well worth the time it takes to refine them.

Not to sound like a broken record—but, once again, referring to the company website and job description will help you. Does the company come across as corporate and formal? Or is it more laid-back, emphasizing employee familiarity and a creative work environment? Company culture is your key to nailing the right tone.

What you say is important, but  so is  how  you say it .

Ensure your overall message is ideal, too—even if that means switching out an accomplishment that isn’t as relevant as you first thought. Your letter should be no more than a page and should send the message that you already know the company’s job role and exactly how you’ll fit in. Don’t skimp on proofreading, editing, revising, and rewriting to get this right.

A Simple Outline for Your Recruiter Cover Letter

It’s time for you to take a crack at writing your recruiter cover letter, so keep those last three tips in mind as you think about each section. You may or may not have found a  resume outline  helpful, but chances are, a cover letter outline will really help yours take shape. 

How to start a recruiter cover letter

Your contact info:  Include your name, address, phone number, and email address (along with your LinkedIn or other professional social media) if you’re using a cover letter template.

• Formatting : Leave your name out of your address if you’re using a block format.

190 Fictional Court Wilson, NC 27893 (123) 456-7890

Date:  This should reflect the exact submission date of your application materials.

February 3, 2023

• Formatting : The date should reflect the submission date of your application materials.

Inside address:  The inside address is just the address where you’re sending your cover letter! Make sure you research and use the person’s real name and company role, shunning generic phrases like “Dear Sir or Madam.”

Eloise Kemper Electronic Arts Hiring Manager 209 Redwood Shores Parkway  Redwood City, CA 94065

• Formatting : Each part of the address should be on a fresh line. Double-space between the inside address and greeting—it looks much nicer!

Greeting:  Your greeting, or salutation, is crucial in making the right first impression. Always   do your homework and find out the name of the person you’re writing to (hint: LinkedIn will help ya!).

Dear Ms. Irwin, Dear Ms. Kemper:

• Formatting : Colons are more formal, so you’ll usually default to these. However, if the company culture is more friendly and casual, you can use a comma to reflect that.

How to write your recruiter cover letter

Body:  Your cover letter’s body should include 3-4 paragraphs that show your interest in the recruiter position, your credentials that make you the ideal hire, and your excitement for future contact.

• Formatting : Keep text single-spaced within body text but double-spaced between paragraphs.

Opening paragraph:  Many cover letters run together with nothing that makes them stand out. Make sure yours isn’t one of them by putting in the effort to make it unique to the job position and company!

I love video games. Especially arena games. And I’ve worked as a recruiter for other companies before, so I’d fit in well with you guys.

Why It’s Bad:  While leading with a personal connection is good, this applicant over-stresses the gamer aspect at the expense of their qualifications—where are those? Also, the company culture is laid-back, but this tone takes informality too far.

With 6 years of well-rounded experience as a recruiter—and gamer—plus a background of rapid growth fueled by my finance degree and knack for managing high-volume interview funnels, I would love to use my overarching communication and strategy skills as your senior recruiter to set the roadmap for successful, inclusive hiring. I pride myself on being inquisitive and would love to help Electronic Arts by recruiting top talent to provide games, online services, and worlds with infinite possibilities. 

Why It’s Good:  This applicant has a lot of info to cover in a limited space for a senior role! They make a quick mention of their gaming connection and then move on to the skills that qualify them for the job, wrapping up with a direct reference to the company’s mission statement. Perfect! 

Paragraphs 2-3:  Now’s the time to show that your opening paragraph wasn’t full of empty claims! Use this space to provide examples of your best accomplishments, keeping each section focused on a single achievement.

You don’t have much room, so stick to that one time you drastically improved time-to-hire or that prestigious strategy overhaul you led multiple departments through.

While documenting employee data and feedback, I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was room for improvement. So, I researched and fine-tuned a new employee benefits package that improved current employees’ satisfaction by 8%—and then I pushed things further by creating and streamlining data management plans inspired by my educational background. These infrastructures optimized employees’ processes and boosted satisfaction rates by 14%. 

Why It’s Good:  Taking the opportunity to demonstrate growth within your career is smart! This one’s a winner for highlighting various skills and two metrics that come together to further the same core goal, maintaining the paragraph’s focus while demonstrating ambition and versatility.

Closing paragraph:  It’s time for your grand finale! Summarize how your qualifications and values align with the needs specified in the job listing and the company’s vision statement. Finally, provide a call to action that blends seamlessly with the rest of your paragraph and invites further communication.

Can’t wait to work for your company. Helping people find their ideal jobs sounds good, and I’m qualified to help them navigate. Contact me for more info if needed.

Why It’s Bad:  The choppy sentence structure is informal, abrupt, and disinterested. We also see a lack of detail and an indifferent call to action.

I care about clients’ well-being and have the self-motivated management and interpersonal skills to make it count. I would love to use this people-focused outlook to proactively reach clients who view me as the long-term solution as they let me know what they’ll need next. I’d love to meet soon to share more about how my ability to juggle performance objectives and hiring needs can empower TalentCare’s teams—and clients. 

Why It’s Good:  The enthusiasm here is genuine. This applicant feels passionate about the recruiter job role and is eager to use their position to help others, which the company values. Additionally, the references to the job description’s wording and the warm call to action reinforce compatibility.

How to end a recruiter cover letter

Signature:  If you didn’t thank the reader for their time in your closing paragraph, then there’s no time like the present! Once you say “thank you,” sign off with your real name.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration, 

Tomas Zepeda

• Formatting :  If you’re presenting hard copies of your recruiter cover letter, quadruple space in order to sign your name by hand in blue/black ink.

Enclosure(s):  This part of your cover letter is important since it signals that there’s more to your application package! For example, a recruiter would include their job resume and any needed certifications.

Enclosures: Resume Application IPMA-CP certificate 

• Formatting : Make sure you use the proper singular or plural form of “enclosure,” depending on how many items you’re enclosing.

Secure Your Next Recruiter Role with a Resume That Wins

You’re so close—congratulations on investing in your cover letter! But before you call it a day, it’s essential to take this opportunity to write or  review your resume  and cover letter to ensure that your entire application package is thoughtfully put together, polished, and impressive.

Pro tip: It’s actually easier to write your cover letter once you’ve completed (or at least drafted) your resume! When you  build your resume , you get to see all your bullet-point accomplishments laid out in one place so that you can pick out the finest achievements to address in more depth.

And don’t worry if you’re not sure where to start. We have a treasure trove of versatile  resume templates  you can use to start writing your own, including this one here. 

Technical Recruiter Resume

Need a resume to pair with your technical recruiter cover letter?

We want to make it as easy as possible for you to get your next recruiting role as you use our resources and tools. We’re rooting for you every step of the way, so you can get to finding and retaining the best talent at your next dream job.

While what you write in your cover letter should be customized for each job, using a template can be extremely helpful to speed up the process and present a consistent, professional look for each one. Think about how you were probably impressed when prospective employees you were recruiting handed in cover letters that were well laid out. It’ll help you stand out to hiring managers and show you know how to approach hiring when making those key decisions yourself.

Standing out as a recruiter can feel like a tough task. After all, the other applicants are also very knowledgeable in the hiring process, just like you are. A great way to stand out is by using key metrics from your achievements and being very specific to the needs of each role you apply to. For instance, if the company wants to reduce turnover after hirings, you could explain how improving recruiter job descriptions in your last position helped boost candidate satisfaction rates post-hiring by 58%.

Your cover letter shouldn’t be longer than one page. Think about how many applicants you’ve generated during recruiting. It can be tough to manage all the information about each candidate, so concisely focusing on key abilities like social media recruiting and job boards will help those primary skills grab attention.

How to Write a Recruiter Cover Letter (With Template)

Key takeaways

• A cover letter can be the most important element in a job application. Ensuring your profile stands out to recruiters is crucial to your professional success.
• A well-tailored cover letter should provide relevant information clearly and concisely. Focus on detailing your skills and why you are the right person for that specific role.
• The included Recruiter cover letter template provides an easy starting point to craft your own cover letters. Adapt and personalize it to fit your profile.

A well-written cover letter is key to quickly getting the attention of prospective employers. Among countless job seekers, resumes, and application letters, yours need to stand out on first impression if you want to ensure your job search   translates to a new role .

In this post, you will discover:

• Reasons why a well-crafted cover letter is key to professional success, from entry-level roles to senior positions
• Cover letter do’s and dont’s
• A Recruiter sample cover letter you can easily adapt and personalize

A well-tailored   cover letter : The key to   job application   success

Ensuring you know how to write a cover letter that is clear, informative, and tailored to the role you are applying to will benefit you in many ways. Well-crafted cover letters have many benefits, which include:

• Showcasing relevance:   Tailoring your cover letter allows you to emphasize the most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that align with the specific job requirements. This immediately captures the attention of the   talent acquisition   team, recruiters, or human resources reps.
• Demonstrating research:   A good cover letter conveys your understanding of the organization's needs and illustrates how you can contribute to its success, signaling to potential employers that you've done your homework.
• Telling your story:   Each job application is unique, and a tailored cover letter enables you to craft a personalized narrative. It lets you connect your professional journey with the role's specific challenges and opportunities, making your application more compelling.
• Highlighting cultural fit:   Your cover letter allows you to address the company's values, mission, and culture. By aligning your experiences and values with those of the organization, you demonstrate a cultural fit and convey your enthusiasm for being part of the team.
• Addressing specific requirements:   Job postings often include   specific skills or qualifications   the employer is seeking. Tailoring your cover letter enables you to address these requirements directly, showcasing how you possess the desired attributes and can meet the company's expectations.

Cover letter tips

A great cover letter should reflect your professional profile and personality. However, no matter what your cover letter's content is, the tips below will help ensure the message you want to convey is clear and easily accessible to hiring managers.

• Keep it concise:   Aim for a cover letter length of 250-400 words. Be succinct in presenting your qualifications and experiences.
• Use a clean layout:   Opt for a professional and clean cover letter format with a standard font (e.g., Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman) and a font size of 10-12 points.
• Include   contact information :   Provide your contact information at the top of the cover letter, including your name, phone number, and professional email address.
• Use   headers   and sections:   Organize your cover letter into clear sections with headers such as Introduction, Work Experience, and Achievements for easy readability.
• Maintain a professional tone:   Keep the tone of your cover letter professional and upbeat. Avoid overly casual language, and focus on showcasing your skills and experiences.
• Use keywords:   Incorporate relevant keywords from the Agile Project Manager   job description   and company website into your cover letter. This can help your application pass through   applicant tracking systems (ATS)   used by many employers.
• Highlight achievements with bullet points:   Use bullet points to list specific accomplishments or notable projects. This makes it easier for the reader to grasp your accomplishments quickly.
• Use quantifiable data:   Whenever possible, include quantifiable data to demonstrate the impact of your achievements. Numbers provide concrete evidence of your contributions.
• Match company tone:   Adapt your writing style to match the tone of the company and industry. Research the company's culture to strike the right balance between professionalism and personality.
• Showcase company knowledge:   Demonstrate your understanding of the company by referencing its values, mission, or recent achievements. Explain why you're excited about the opportunity to work for this specific organization.
• Address employment gaps (if applicable):   If you have employment gaps, briefly address them in a positive light, focusing on any skills or experiences gained during those periods.
• Proofread   thoroughly:   Eliminate typos and grammatical errors by proofreading your cover letter multiple times. Consider using tools like Grammarly to catch any overlooked mistakes and ensure your English (or any language you use) is correct.
• Include a   call to action :   Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity and indicating your readiness for an interview.
• Follow submission instructions:   If there are specific instructions for submitting the cover letter, such as naming conventions or document formats, ensure that you adhere to them.
• Save as a PDF:   Save your cover letter as a PDF before submitting it. This ensures that the formatting remains consistent across different devices and software.

While understanding the correct steps to write a cover letter is crucial to your professional success, knowing what mistakes to avoid is equally important. The best cover letter can easily be made useless by a tiny blunder. Avoid making the mistakes listed below; you will be halfway to your new job.

• Don't use a generic greeting:   Avoid generic salutations like "To whom it may concern," “Dear sir or madam, “ or “Dear hiring manager.“ Whenever possible, address the cover letter to a specific person.
• Don't repeat your resume:   An effective cover letter should complement your resume, not duplicate it. Focus on specific experiences and achievements that showcase your qualifications for the role.
• Don't exaggerate or lie:   Be truthful in your cover letter. Exaggerating your qualifications or providing false information can harm your chances and damage your professional reputation.
• Don't use unprofessional email addresses:   Ensure that the email address you use in your contact information is professional. Avoid using nicknames or unprofessional terms.
• Don't include irrelevant information:   Keep your cover letter focused on the job. Avoid including unrelated personal details or experiences that do not contribute to your suitability for the role.
• Don't use jargon unnecessarily:   While demonstrating your knowledge is essential, avoid unnecessary jargon that may confuse the reader. Use clear and straightforward language.
• Don't sound overly eager:   Expressing enthusiasm is positive but can easily feel unauthentic if overdone.

Remember, the goal of a practical cover letter is to present your qualifications in a clear, organized, and compelling manner while adhering to professional standards.

How to structure your Recruiter cover letter

Express your genuine interest in the Recruiter position in the opening paragraph. Convey your passion for talent acquisition and your eagerness to contribute to a dynamic and results-driven recruitment team. If applicable, mention any referrals that have influenced your decision to apply for this specific role.

About your current role

Highlight your achievements that have positively impacted the success of your current team. Emphasize your role in implementing specific recruitment procedures or tools that have streamlined processes, demonstrating your proficiency in identifying and attracting top-tier talent.

Use this section to outline your current responsibilities and ongoing projects, emphasizing how they align with the requirements and objectives of the Recruiter role.

About your experience

Detail your hands-on experience in recruitment tasks, underscoring your commitment to finding the right talent and contributing to the overall organizational success. Clearly communicate that your recruiting skills and readiness for the role are well-established. 

This section is also an opportunity to highlight the number of years you've spent as a Recruiter and any additional skills acquired throughout your recruitment career path .

Notable achievements

Highlight notable accomplishments that showcase your effectiveness as a Recruiter. Whether you played a key role in successfully filling critical positions, implementing innovative sourcing strategies, or improving the efficiency of the recruitment process, use this section to concisely mention your achievements, how they were measured, and their impact on the overall talent acquisition efforts.

Why you want to work there

Express your interest in the company by highlighting specific aspects of its workplace culture, mission, and values related to recruitment that resonate with you. Convey how these align seamlessly with your professional goals and how you envision contributing to the company's success through your expertise in recruiting. Be concise but articulate about your motivations.

Specific projects or initiatives that motivated you to apply

Demonstrate your understanding of the organization by referencing specific recruitment-related projects or initiatives that have captured your interest. Draw connections between these initiatives and your skills and experiences, emphasizing how your contributions align with the company's recruitment goals. This shows your genuine interest and proactive approach to aligning with the company's mission.

In the closing paragraph, reiterate your enthusiasm to contribute to the company's success as a Recruiter. Express your eagerness to discuss how your skills align with the company's recruitment objectives and invite the reader to reach out with any questions they may have. Sign off with a professional salutation.

Recruiter   cover letter template

Dear [Hiring Manager’s name],

I am writing to express my keen interest in the Recruiter position at [Company Name], as advertised. With a dedicated background in talent acquisition and a proven track record of successfully identifying and securing top-tier candidates, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your organization.

About my current role

In my current position as a Recruiter at [Current Company], I have:

• Conducted end-to-end recruitment processes, from job requisition to candidate onboarding, ensuring a seamless and positive experience for both candidates and hiring managers.
• Utilized a variety of sourcing methods, including online job boards, social media, and networking, to identify and attract high-caliber candidates.
• Collaborated with hiring managers to understand staffing needs, define job requirements, and develop effective recruitment strategies.

About my Recruiter experience

My experience extends to:

• Evaluating resumes, conducting interviews, and assessing candidates for cultural fit and alignment with organizational goals.
• Managing candidate pipelines and ensuring timely communication to provide a positive candidate experience.
• Staying updated on industry trends and best practices to enhance recruitment strategies and processes.

Some of my notable achievements include:

• Successfully reducing time-to-fill by [percentage] through the implementation of streamlined recruitment processes.
• Spearheading campus recruitment initiatives that resulted in the hiring of top graduates and strengthened the company's talent pipeline.
• Implementing a diversity hiring program that increased the representation of underrepresented groups within the organization.

Why I want to work for [Company]

I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] due to its [mention aspects unique to the company and are a core part of its mission and values such as commitment to attracting top talent, dedication to fostering a diverse workforce, growth,...]. I am excited about the opportunity to apply my recruitment skills to contribute to [Company Name]'s success in building a high-performing and diverse team.

Specific projects or initiatives of [Company] that motivated me to apply

In researching [Company Name], I was impressed by your recent initiatives in [specific recruitment-related project or achievement]. I believe my experience in recruitment aligns seamlessly with your organizational objectives. My commitment to identifying and securing the best talent and my dedication to delivering high-quality recruitment services would make me a valuable addition to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my skills and experiences align with the Recruiter role at [Company Name]. I look forward to contributing to your team's success.

[Your Full Name]

Get your career rolling with Deel

Your job application is your chance to tell your professional story, and a well-tailored cover letter is your narrative's opening chapter. Remember that personalization is key. Make each word count, emphasizing how your background uniquely positions you as the ideal candidate, and get your dream job. 

Looking for even more inspiration?   Discover how to write a stellar cover letter in 5 steps .

Discover more tips and tools to help boost your career further and climb the steps to your dream job on   the get-hired content hub .

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Recruiter Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

How to build a compelling recruiter cover letter in 5 easy steps

While small businesses can handle hiring on their own, larger companies rely on the skills of professional recruiters to find the best available talent to join their teams. To earn a job as a recruiter, you need a cover letter that highlights your best abilities and accomplishments, as well as your dedication to the position.

In this guide, we will teach you 5 easy steps for writing a recruiter cover letter. Keep reading to learn all about how to:

• Create your recruiter cover letter header & headline
• Personalize the content & greeting of your recruiter cover letter
• Construct a compelling recruiter cover letter introduction
• Describe your best skills & accomplishments as a recruiter
• Write a strong conclusion for your recruiter cover letter

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

1. Create a proper recruiter cover letter header & headline

To begin, the very first step to writing a cover letter as a recruiter is to write a well-formatted header and headline.

A cover letter header comes first, containing all the need-to-know information about the applicant and the employer. This information should include:

• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information
• The name of the company & department you are applying to
• The address of the company

Ensuring your header is nicely organized helps to give your cover letter greater structure and visual appeal, so pay attention to how you list this information and make sure it is orderly.

Here is an example of a well-formatted recruiter header

Jack King , Professional Recruiter (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/jack-king

To: Tech Gods United HR & Recruitment Department 1234 Street Address Philadelphia, PA, 19019

After you have crafted your recruiter header, the next step is to write an engaging cover letter headline that attracts the attention of employers.

To write this headline as a recruiter, you should always use a keyword related to the position, an eye-catching number or trigger word, a powerful adjective or verb, and a promise.

Here is an example of an effective recruiter headline, followed by a brief explanation of its key components

Looking for a Recruiter with a High Onboarding Success Rate? Here’s Why I am Perfect for this Role

Trigger Word/Number : Looking for, Here’s Why Keyword: Recruiter, Onboarding Success Rate Adjective/Verb: High, Perfect Promise: for this Role – this part of the headline indicates to the employer that you will specifically explain why your skills are a good match for their current opening.

2. Personalize the content & greeting of your recruiter cover letter

Before you begin writing the introduction and body paragraphs of your cover letter , it is crucial to have the proper information handy to personalize the letter for a specific job.

Personalization is the process of tailoring a cover letter using precise details about a company gained from thorough research. By doing so, you not only show the employer your excellent attention to detail but also a high level of effort within your job application.

When researching a company, look for key details such as:

• What the company’s stated goals and values are – look specifically for what kind of language they use and find ways to incorporate this language into your cover letter.
• What projects or major clients the company is currently involved with – use these details to explain how your skills and experience can benefit the company’s ongoing business affairs.
• The exact person at the company who will review your letter – you will use this information to create a personalized greeting that addresses this person by name.

Here are 3 examples of personalized recruiter cover letter greetings

Dear Ms. Mary Green,

• Dear Recruitment Manager Mary Green,
• Dear Ms. Mary Green & the Recruitment Team,

Pro Tip: Always double-check that you are using the correct honorific (Mr., Ms., Mrs., Dr., etc.) for a person before submitting your cover letter. Never blindly guess – if you are unsure, remove the honorific entirely.

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3. Construct a compelling recruiter cover letter introduction

Now that you know how to personalize and tailor your cover letter for the job at hand, it’s finally time to begin writing the body content – starting with your introduction .

A strong recruiter cover letter introduction will be compelling, including details such as:

• An overview of your professional history (years of experience, specializations, etc.)
• A brief explanation of why you are applying for the position
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible) – including mutual acquaintances helps you build initial rapport and credibility with an employer

Pro Tip: Having mutual acquaintances with a company you are interested in is not the most common scenario. However, you can take matters into your own hands by using a professional platform like LinkedIn to grow your network and connect with current employees and associates of companies that interest you.

Here is an example of a compelling introduction from a recruiter’s cover letter

I am a professional recruiter with more than 6 years of experience working in corporate consulting firms. Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting your company’s Head of HR, John Doe, at a business conference. Mr. Doe reviewed my resume and strongly recommended I apply for this position – and after speaking with him more about your company’s values and goals – I have determined I am the ideal candidate for this job.

4. Describe your best skills & accomplishments as a recruiter

With your introduction in place, it’s time to write the body paragraphs. Ideally, a recruiter’s cover letter should contain between 2 to 4 body paragraphs that offer key insights into your best professional attributes, including:

• What key skills and competencies do you possess
• What relevant accomplishments make you stand out as an applicant
• How do you plan to apply your skills and experience in the role
• What value can you contribute to the company

As you write this information, make sure the details about your skills and accomplishments are as specific and quantifiable as possible. This will make your cover letter more impactful for the employer by showcasing the value you have to offer.

Here are 6 examples of recruiter skills that are excellent to describe in a cover letter

• Creating and posting job descriptions to various platforms (Indeed, LinkedIn, etc.)
• Candidate outreach methods
• Electronic file management
• Onboarding procedures (interviewing, hiring, etc.)
• Knowledge of employment laws
• Conducting job interviews

Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in a recruiter cover letter

As a recruiter for [Former Employer], I helped raise the onboarding success rate by more than 20% by introducing new hiring marketing materials and a streamlined recruitment process. This process included the use of a new digital platform designed for recruitment, which I played a vital role in sourcing and implementing.

5. Write a strong conclusion for your recruiter cover letter

Finish off your recruiter cover letter strong with a well-written closing statement. Your cover letter conclusion should include:

• An enthusiastic sentence saying you are looking forward to hearing from them
• An additional sentence stating you will follow up, including how you will contact them or how they can contact you
• A formal sign-off

Here is an example of a strong closing statement from a recruiter’s cover letter

I am greatly excited by the prospect of working for your excellent company and hope to hear from you within a week to further discuss this opportunity. I am available to meet or speak directly any weekday between the hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. If I have not heard back by next Wednesday, I will reach out to check on my application’s status. The best way to reach me is at (123) 456-7890.

With Appreciation,

[Applicant Name]

If you have ever wondered how a cover letter differs from a resume, this article will tell you everything about the key differences between the two .

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

All human resources cover letter examples

• Human Resources Assistant
• Talent Acquisition Specialist
• Training Specialist

All recruiter cover letter examples

Related recruiter resume examples

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14 recruiter cover letters.

Approved by real hiring managers, these Recruiter cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Table of contents

• Senior Recruiter
• Talent Acquisition Specialist
• Senior Technical Recruiter
• Campus Recruiter
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Recruiter resume examples

Recruiter Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, highlighting previous success.

This cover letter emphasizes the writer's achievements in their previous role, showing that they have a proven track record of success. Make sure to highlight your accomplishments and explain how they make you a strong candidate for the role.

Emphasizing Diversity and Inclusion

The writer demonstrates their commitment to diversity and inclusion by sharing a specific initiative they implemented, which shows that they are proactive and results-driven. Share similar initiatives that you have led or participated in, to show your dedication to creating an inclusive workplace.

Expressing Genuine Interest

This sentence shows the writer's enthusiasm for the role and company, making it clear that they are not just applying to any job. Be specific about why you are excited about the role, and demonstrate your knowledge of the company and its values.

Aligning with Company Values

When you demonstrate your understanding of and alignment with a company's core values, it shows that you're not only fit for the role but also the organization's culture. Here, you've shown your awareness of Google's commitment to diversity and inclusivity and expressed your shared passion for these values. This can make you an attractive candidate as cultural fit is a key hiring consideration.

Quantifying Success

It's one thing to tell me you're good at your job, it's another to show me. By citing specific figures like filling 75% of open positions within 60 days and reducing the time-to-hire metric by 30%, you're giving concrete evidence of your high performance. This is a testament to your skills and effectiveness as a recruiter and shows your potential impact at Google.

Understanding Company Needs

Highlighting your understanding of what Google needs in its employees signals your ability to find the right fit for the company. This confidence in your ability to attract the right individuals demonstrates your knowledge of the company and its culture, and reassures me that you're equipped to make quality hires.

Highlighting Noteworthy Achievements

Man, when you say you filled 15 critical roles in record time, it shows you're not just a recruiter, but a super recruiter. That's something we want on our team. This sentence also suggests you can handle pressure and know how to get results, fast.

Showing Initiative

Introducing a mentorship program is a great move. It shows you understand that recruitment doesn't end when the candidate is hired. It's also about making sure they stick around and grow within the company. Plus it demonstrates your leadership skills and dedication to employee engagement.

Acknowledging Company Values

When you talk about your excitement for inclusive and diverse work environments, it shows you share our values. This makes me think you'd fit in well with our company culture.

Expressing Enthusiasm

I can feel your eagerness jumping off the page when you say you're ready to contribute to our success and innovation. This makes me want to meet you even more.

Showing Hopefulness

Looking forward to a discussion with us shows optimism and a real interest in the role. It's a subtle, yet effective way of expressing the desire for further engagement with us.

Show your passion for the company's mission

Starting your cover letter by expressing a personal connection to our mission makes me see you're not just looking for any job. You're looking for this job.

Detail your recruiter accomplishments

Talking about specific achievements, like improving the candidate pipeline or increasing diverse hires, demonstrates your direct impact. This tells me you're results-driven.

Highlight candidate feedback

Mentioning positive feedback from candidates about your personalized approach adds a human touch. It shows you value people, which is essential in recruiting.

Align your experience with the recruiter role

When you clearly state how your background makes you a great fit, it helps me envision you in the role. This convinces me you've thought deeply about how you can contribute.

Express eagerness to contribute

Closing with anticipation to discuss your contribution shows me you're proactive and genuinely interested. It makes me want to invite you for an interview.

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Share the moment you found your recruiter calling

Describing the moment you knew recruiting was your calling adds a personal touch and showcases your passion for the field.

Detail recruiter skills through experience

Outlining your skills developed over time gives the impression of a well-rounded and experienced recruiter, ready to tackle new challenges.

Illustrate success in filling diverse roles

Highlighting your track record of filling a variety of positions successfully shows you're adaptable and capable of meeting various department needs.

Show your approach to understanding hiring needs

Your method of working closely with hiring managers to understand their needs indicates a collaborative approach, essential for a successful recruiter.

Express enthusiasm for contributing to talent acquisition

Your excitement about joining the team and contributing to their mission makes your application memorable and shows you're not just interested in a job, but in making a difference.

Connect your personal story to the company’s mission

By sharing your personal experience of furnishing your apartment, you create a relatable connection to the company's mission. This shows you are not just a candidate who understands the job but also someone who personally values what the company stands for.

Detail your recruiter achievements

Discussing your past success in hiring engineers and improving recruitment processes provides concrete evidence of your skills. It's not just about the roles you've filled but how you've made the process better and more efficient.

Highlight improvements and candidate satisfaction

When you mention revamping the interview process and increasing candidate satisfaction, it shows you care about people’s experiences. This is key for a recruiter, as it reflects on the company’s culture and values.

Show passion for diversity and inclusion

Your excitement about joining a team that values diversity speaks volumes. It indicates you're not just looking for any job but one where you can contribute to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.

End with a strong call to action

Expressing your desire to discuss your potential contributions further is a good way to end your letter. It leaves the door open for further conversations and shows your eagerness to be part of the team.

Senior Recruiter Cover Letter Example

Identifying with company's mission.

Expressing your admiration for Amazon's global impact and continuous innovation shows your alignment with their mission. This not only signals your interest in the role but also your enthusiasm for contributing to a company that shares your professional ambitions.

Proving Expertise with Past Achievements

By sharing your past accomplishments like recruiting a 50-member team within 90 days and reducing hiring costs by 25%, you're proving your competency as a seasoned recruiter. This evidences your ability to effectively manage Amazon's hiring needs and brings a level of credibility to your application.

Showing Excitement for the Role

Your excitement about identifying and recruiting talent who align with Amazon's mission shows your passion for the role. It tells me that you're not just looking for any job, but are genuinely excited about contributing to Amazon's goals. This kind of enthusiasm is contagious, and can make you an attractive candidate.

Talent Acquisition Specialist Cover Letter Example

Proving your worth with data.

When you say you increased the efficiency of the recruitment process by 30%, it screams competence. It shows you understand how to use data analytics and it proves you've made a tangible impact in your previous role.

Demonstrating Impact

Building a team that launched a $2M revenue generating product? Wow. This highlights your strategic planning, team building skills and your ability to contribute to the bottom line. Your ability to attribute your actions to specific outcomes is impressive.

Aligning with Company Culture

You saying you resonate with Amazon's Leadership Principles is a smart move. It sends a clear message that your values align with ours, which is a key factor in making recruiting decisions.

Conveying Passion

Your keenness to bring your expertise to Amazon is evident in this sentence. It speaks volumes about your passion, ambition and the potential value you can add to our organization.

Expressing Gratitude

Thanking us for considering your application is a nice touch. It shows your humility and appreciation for the opportunity, both of which are qualities we value.

Senior Technical Recruiter Cover Letter Example

Connect with the company’s tech ethos.

Showing your enthusiasm for our technology and tools right away grabs my attention. It indicates you understand and value what we do.

Showcase your technical recruiting improvements

Describing specific improvements you've made, like a new interview process that reduced time-to-hire, proves you're innovative and effective. This is exactly what we need.

Emphasize your personal connection with candidates

Your ability to connect with candidates on a personal level is a rare skill. Highlighting this tells me you're not just filling positions; you're building a team.

Confirm your fit for the senior technical recruiter role

Asserting your confidence in your fit for the role, backed by your experience and skills, makes a strong case for why we should consider you seriously.

Show your eagerness to join the mission

Ending on a note of eagerness to help continue building our tech team sends a strong message of your dedication and excitement about the opportunity.

Show your passion for the tech industry

Talking about your lifelong interest in tech and your desire to connect talent with innovative companies gives me a sense of your genuine enthusiasm for this field.

Highlight your technical recruiting success

When you share specific achievements like filling 25 senior-level engineering positions, it tells me you're not just experienced but also effective in your role.

Understand the person behind the resume

Emphasizing the importance of knowing a candidate's motivations and career goals shows you value a holistic approach to recruiting, which is key for finding the right fit for both parties.

Bring expertise to unleash team potential

Your excitement about contributing to our mission demonstrates your readiness to apply your skills towards our company's growth and success.

Express eagerness for a discussion

By inviting a conversation about how you can help build our engineering organization, you're taking an active step towards becoming a part of our team.

Express alignment with the company’s vision

Explaining your attraction to the company’s commitment shows you've done your research and understand what makes the company unique. It demonstrates you're not just looking for any job but one where you believe in the mission.

Specialize your experience in the field

Detailing your recruitment expertise in cybersecurity positions you as a specialist. This specificity makes your application stronger, showing you’re not just a general recruiter but one with targeted skills that match the company’s needs.

Emphasize teamwork and strategy in hiring

Your ability to work closely with hiring managers and develop strategies highlights your collaborative skills. It also shows you understand the importance of aligning technical skills with company culture.

Share your excitement for growth opportunities

Your enthusiasm for helping scale the company’s technical teams shows you are ready to tackle big challenges. It also aligns with the company’s goals, making you a well-suited candidate for the role.

Invite further discussion

Ending your cover letter with a thank you and an invitation to discuss how you can contribute reflects professionalism and openness. It shows you value the opportunity to further prove your worth to the team.

Campus Recruiter Cover Letter Example

Connect personal experience with company values.

Talking about your own journey and how it aligns with what the company offers makes your application feel more personal and engaging.

Show campus recruiter success with numbers

Highlighting specific achievements with quantifiable results showcases your effectiveness and ability to make a tangible impact.

Emphasize unique recruiter skills

Pointing out your unique ability to understand and connect with students shows you have the interpersonal skills crucial for a campus recruiter role.

Express passion for developing early career talent

Your excitement about helping students start their careers demonstrates a genuine passion for talent development, a key attribute for this role.

Highlight your contribution to campus recruiting efforts

Demonstrating eagerness to contribute to the company's goals shows you're not just looking for any job, but specifically aiming to improve their campus recruiting efforts.

Connect personal experience with campus recruiting

Reflecting on your own college journey to empathize with students' feelings of excitement and uncertainty shows a personal connection to your work.

Share values with the company

Mentioning your alignment with our commitment to diversity and inclusion suggests you'll contribute to fostering a workplace that values authenticity.

Build networks to tap into talent pools

Your ability to establish relationships with career services, student organizations, and faculty highlights your strategic approach to sourcing candidates.

Empower students in their career paths

Showing your dedication to helping students prepare for the job market, through resume reviews and mock interviews, illustrates your commitment to their success.

Demonstrate excitement for early-career development

Your enthusiasm for bringing your campus recruiting expertise to our team indicates a strong desire to support and develop early-career talent.

Show your enthusiasm for the campus recruiter role

Expressing excitement about the job and the company shows you're not just looking for any job, but you're interested in this specific role at this specific company. It makes you seem like a more motivated and fitting candidate.

Highlight relevant experience

When you detail your experience with related tasks and roles, it directly shows your capability and readiness for the campus recruiter position. Demonstrating success in related areas, like organizing career events, proves you can handle the responsibilities of the job.

Quantify your achievements

Using numbers to show the results of your efforts (like a 30% increase in job placements or hiring over 20 top graduates) proves your effectiveness. It makes your accomplishments clear and impressive to the hiring manager.

Connect your passion to the company mission

Linking your personal interests and passions with the company's goals suggests a deep alignment with the company's culture and mission. It indicates you'll be committed and driven if hired for the campus recruiter role.

End with a forward-looking statement

Closing your cover letter by expressing eagerness to discuss how you can contribute, shows you're proactive and serious about the opportunity. It leaves a positive, lasting impression on the hiring manager.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

Cover Letters For Jobs Similar To Recruiter Roles

• Corporate Recruiter Cover Letter Guide
• Entry-Level Recruiter Cover Letter Guide
• Executive Recruiter Cover Letter Guide
• Healthcare Recruiter Cover Letter Guide
• HR Recruiter Cover Letter Guide
• Junior Recruiter Cover Letter Guide
• Recruiter Cover Letter Guide
• Senior Recruiter Cover Letter Guide
• Technical Recruiter Cover Letter Guide

Other Other Cover Letters

• Business Owner Cover Letter Guide
• Consultant Cover Letter Guide
• Correctional Officer Cover Letter Guide
• Demand Planning Manager Cover Letter Guide
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter Guide
• Operations Manager Cover Letter Guide
• Orientation Leader Cover Letter Guide
• Plant Manager Cover Letter Guide
• Production Planner Cover Letter Guide
• Recruiting Coordinator Cover Letter Guide
• Site Manager Cover Letter Guide
• Supply Chain Planner Cover Letter Guide
• Teacher Cover Letter Guide
• Vice President of Operations Cover Letter Guide

Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2024?

Published: April 03, 2024

Writing a cover letter can be daunting.

I’ll never forget my college career coach, who made writing a cover letter look easy. Even with her tips, I’ve always found it incredibly difficult to talk about myself and hype up my accomplishments.

While it acts as a letter of introduction, I’ve wondered if a cover letter is necessary in 2024. To find out, I spoke with two recruiters and gained insights on how to write the best cover letter for any job application.

How important is a cover letter?

Is a cover letter necessary, when to skip a cover letter, when to include a cover letter, tips for writing a cover letter, what if the cover letter is optional.

Cover letters are short letters of introduction that you include with job applications.

Typically, they are your chance to go into deeper details about your accomplishments that you might not have highlighted or had room to mention on your resume.

Tiffany Hall, a professional resume writer and founder of Resume911 , says cover letters are an important part of the job application process.

Hall says, “Cover letters can be very important. It’s supposed to sell why you, of all applicants, should get the job. The issue is that applicants use them to regurgitate what’s on their resume, and that’s not what it’s for. It should speak to what isn’t easily explained with your resume.”

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.

For example, if your resume says you’re skilled at building web pages, your cover letter is a great place to name-drop companies that you’ve worked for to create their websites.

Matthew Muehleisen, a corporate recruiter , thinks a cover letter is also a great place to show you’ve done your homework and researched a company.

Muehleisen says, “It can be what sets you apart from other candidates and applicants and is a good opportunity to show that you’ve done research on the position and company to further showcase your interest in the role.”

Knowing the importance of a cover letter still begs the question: Is a cover letter necessary in 2024?

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While a cover letter can help demonstrate your knowledge of the company you’re applying to and highlight more of your achievements, both Hall and Muehleisen agree that a cover letter isn’t entirely necessary.

Muehleisen says, “Unless it’s a requirement of the application, I wouldn’t say it’s necessary to include a cover letter. There are some roles (usually in content creation and marketing) that will ask for a cover letter as a form of a writing sample. In these instances, make sure your letter is polished and focused.”

If Hall had her way, she would eliminate the cover letter entirely, focus more on the resume, and ask for a link to an applicant’s LinkedIn profile.

According to Hall, “Most cover letters either repeat the resume or they speak to why the applicant isn’t a good fit. Neither is the purpose of a cover letter.”

Nevertheless, 74% of hiring managers still prefer applications to include a cover letter. So, it is definitely worth considering including one — even if the application says it’s optional.

If you’re looking for a new role, writing a cover letter can be time-consuming — especially if you take the time to personalize every letter you send to a hiring manager.

Although a cover letter does serve a legitimate purpose, and 83% of hiring managers read it, there are a few situations where you shouldn’t include a cover letter. Let’s take a look at those scenarios.

If You Only Have a Template of a Cover Letter

I get it. Writing an effective cover letter takes a significant amount of time.

But consider not sending one if you only have time to plug your information into a cover letter template without personalizing it before hitting submit on an application.

Don’t get me wrong. A cover letter template is a great starting point to write your cover letter. Templates often remind you to include pertinent information like the hiring manager’s title, name, and your contact information.

However, if you don’t take the time to edit the body of the cover letter and personalize it with research and your relevant experience, you risk sending the same letter as another candidate.

And considering that 48% of hiring managers spend anywhere from 30 seconds to two full minutes reading each cover letter, the chances are high that your hiring manager can spot a form letter a mile away.

Don’t send it if you don’t have the time to personalize a cover letter.

If Your Cover Letter Is Full of Critique

A cover letter is meant to explain why you’re the best candidate for the open position. However, a cover letter is not a place for you to share your ideas of how the company can improve.

Sure, every company likely has areas of improvement, and the job you’re applying for might be the role that gets a say in that, but a list of improvements might read as a critique.

You don’t want to potentially offend a hiring manager before you even get an interview. A bad cover letter can hurt a strong candidate, according to 33% of hiring managers .

Before you submit your cover letter, read through it several times to make sure it’s not a critique. If it does sound like a critique, throw it out.

If It’s Not Required

There are other instances where you shouldn’t send a cover letter. For example, if the application’s instructions specifically state that you do not need to submit a cover letter for consideration for the job.

In fact, sending a cover letter anyway can signal to the hiring manager that you don’t follow instructions. Not following instructions is also a great way to land your application in the trash bin.

The bottom line is this: If the application specifically states not to send a cover letter, don’t send it.

Of hiring managers, 74% prefer to see job applications with a cover letter apart from the resume. Knowing this, if you have the time to include a cover letter with your job application, don’t skip it.

Here are three instances when you should send a cover letter with your application.

Send a cover letter if you’re very interested in the role.

Think of your cover letter as your time to shine. Use it as a place to highlight your experiences and the qualifications that make you a great fit for the position.

Hall says, “If you can speak to why you’re a good candidate without copying your resume in paragraph form, include a cover letter.”

In other words, don’t use bullet points in your cover letter to describe your previous employment history.

Instead, talk about what you learned on the job and how your skills will help you excel in the role you’re applying for.

Send a cover letter when there’s a gap in your resume or you’re transitioning industries.

If you’re looking to transition to another industry, you should definitely include a cover letter with your application.

Speaking from personal experience, if I had only submitted a resume to my school district when I applied to be a Spanish teacher, the hiring manager would have just seen my experience in Public Health and would not have known about my skills and success in tutoring students in Spanish.

Muehleisen puts it this way, “If you’re looking to transition to a new industry or if there is a position and company you’re really excited about pursuing as an opportunity, these are the best instances to include a cover letter so that you can possibly give yourself an advantage.”

A cover letter can also help explain any gaps in your resume — especially if the gap in your employment history is beneficial to the role you’re applying for.

For example, maybe you volunteered in South America, and the role you’re applying for is for a position in Global Operations.

It never hurts to include positive, pertinent information in your cover letter.

Send a cover letter when it’s required.

The most obvious time to include a cover letter with your application is when it is required. Just like not including a cover letter when it’s not required, it shows you can follow directions.

Include a cover letter when the application asks you to submit one, which shows you can follow directions.

Plus, if the application asks for a cover letter, you can bet the hiring manager will look for it. If no cover letter is included, well, you’re sabotaging your chances of getting an interview.

Only 13% of hiring managers will consider giving a candidate an interview if they don’t attach a required cover letter to an application.

Writing a cover letter is not as painful as it sounds. There are great templates you can use as a starting point for your cover letter.

The trick with a template, though, is to make sure you always personalize the letter to your own experiences and qualifications.

Here are five expert tips to write a winning cover letter.

1. Tailor your cover letter to the job description.

When writing a cover letter, especially if you use a cover letter template, you should tailor the letter to match the job description and meet the requirements of the application.

For example, if the application asks you to attach a short cover letter, keep it brief. Your best bet is one to two short paragraphs detailing why you’re a great fit for the position.

You’ll also want to reference keywords from the job description in your cover letter. Many recruiters use applicant tracking systems that scan application packets for the best fit.

Often, hiring managers review the applications that match the keywords first.

Now, that doesn’t mean to stuff your cover letter with keywords. Instead, use them in a natural way as you discuss your qualifications.

2. Be personable with your greeting.

You might have seen the advice telling you to use “To Whom It May Concern” instead of the hiring manager’s name. This is good advice, but only if you do not know the hiring manager.

Before resorting to a generic greeting to start your cover letter, take the time to look on the company’s website and LinkedIn to find out who makes hiring decisions.

If you have contacts in your network who are familiar with the company, ask them. Taking the time to research the hiring manager and the company shows you care about the details — a quality many hiring managers look for in a candidate!

If you’re still unsure after researching the company, consider using “Dear Sir or Madam” as your greeting.

3. Be yourself.

While a cover letter is a formal introduction of yourself to a potential employer, it doesn’t need to be lacking in personality. Hall suggests sprinkling your personality in your cover letter to spark connections with the hiring manager.

Hall says, “Be your best professional self. I’m a foodie and will include references to food on my LinkedIn, and I’ve done it in a cover letter. I’ve had managers reference them, and we had a chuckle. I am also very clear about aligning myself with companies whose mission and goals I respect and can contribute to. I make sure to speak to that in the cover letter.”

Take Hall’s advice. Showcasing your vibrant personality in your cover letter can help break the ice in your interview!

4. Proofread your cover letter.

Once you’ve written your cover letter and before you hit “send,” double-check that it is free from spelling and grammar errors and that the company you referenced is the company you are applying to.

Muehleisen says skipping proofreading your cover letter is a big mistake — and it could cost you the job!

Muehleisen says, “Make sure that you are proofreading prior to sending. If the cover letter feels like it is a simple cut/paste or if the job title and company name are incorrect, it may do more harm than good. So, be sure that what you’re sending is pertinent.”

5. Be cautious of AI.

AI tools, like ChatGPT or Claude, are great for helping draft content. You might be tempted to ask generative AI to write your cover letter for you. However, both Hall and Muehleisen say to proceed with caution when it comes to AI.

Hall says, “AI is coming along in amazing ways, so it may come as a surprise that my best tip didn’t include AI. I tell my clients when they’re stuck to look to their peers. You can search people by job title on LinkedIn. See how they describe themselves and pull from there. Or, hire a resume writer or career strategist to help you.”

Muehleisen agrees with her. He says, “I would hesitate to use a tool or service for a cover letter as the point should be to show your authenticity. If you are going to use AI for assistance, make sure to put your own words in as well.”

However, when you write your cover letter, whether using a template or generative AI, personalizing it is key to standing out from the competition.

If the job description says a cover letter is optional, should you send one, or can you get by without it?

That can be tricky, considering 72% of recruiters still expect a cover, even if it’s optional.

According to Muehleisen, sending a cover letter is not a bad idea. He says, “I’ve never heard of a cover letter hurting an applicant’s chances; just make sure the one you’re including is specific to the job description and posting.”

Check out these cover letter examples for more inspiration.

Experiment With Your Cover Letters

Writing a cover letter is a breeze once you get the hang of it. With today’s challenging job market, sending a cover letter with your application can make a difference in whether you get called for an interview.

I can’t make promises that your cover letter will dazzle hiring managers each time, but for the right position for you, it will.

Remember Hall and Muehleisen’s advice when you craft your cover letter. Personalization is key to success!

Don't forget to share this post!

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Are Cover Letters Necessary?

Do cover letters matter these days? It depends on who you ask.

Some recruiters love learning more about each job applicant, while others find the practice antiquated. So should you write one if it might not even be read at all?

Keep reading for advice from career coaching experts, plus:

• When you should (and shouldn't) write a cover letter
• What to do when a cover letter is "optional"
• Tips for writing an effective cover letter
• What an effective cover letter template looks like

Do I Need a Cover Letter ?

In most cases, yes—you should submit a cover letter with your resume.

While the cover letter has increasingly become a divisive topic among recruiters and job seekers , it's still often listed as a requirement on job applications .

But regardless, many recruiters still think cover letters are important.

According to a 2023 study by recruitment website Zippia , more than a fourth (26 percent) of recruiters "always read cover letters " and think they're an important component of the hiring decision. And almost half (45 percent) said that not including a cover letter could get your application rejected.

So in most cases, it's best to be cautious and include one.

In short, including a cover letter will almost never hurt your job search —but it can help.

Here's how:

• It can help you stand out from the crowd . Recruiters read through countless resumes for just one role. If you have similar qualifications as other candidates, a cover letter allows you to showcase your personality and unique skills.
• It shows you're willing to go the extra mile . Searching for a new job is already a lot of effort, so it may be difficult to rationalize writing a customized cover letter for each role. But the Zippia study found that 61 percent of hiring managers consider a customized resume (with a cover letter, portfolio link, etc.) the "number one tactic for applicants to boost their chances of getting a job."
• You can address potential biases . In a perfect world, recruiters wouldn't count you out based on things like employment gaps or " job hopping ." Career coach Marlo Lyons recommends using your cover letter to "fill in any gaps" and provide context about these types of situations so recruiters don't get the wrong impression.

When You Should Include a Cover Letter

It's ultimately up to you whether you include a cover letter.

Octavia Goredema, career coach and author of Prep, Push, Pivot , says that the decision to submit a cover letter hinges on "where you are in your career journey and your personal career goals."

In addition to when it's a required part of the job posting, here are scenarios where it's in your best interest to submit one:

• If someone referred you to the job : According to Goredema, "If you were referred to an opportunity by someone at the company or have a personal history that correlates with the role, a cover letter enables you to share that."
• If you want to add additional information : Say the job you're applying to requires candidates to live on a specific coast. If you don't currently live in the area but are willing to relocate, mention that in your cover letter so you aren't automatically rejected based on your current location.
• If you're changing careers : Goredema recommends writing one "if you're in the early stages of your career or making a professional pivot. A cover letter provides the opportunity to add additional context to the information included in your resume."
• If you don't have any previous work experience : If you're new to the workforce, you may not have any applicable previous positions to include on your resume. Use your cover letter to highlight transferrable skills and explain why you think you'd still be a good fit.

Lastly, Goredema suggests that "if this is your dream job, a cover letter provides the space for you to explain with impact and highlight what you do best."

Debra Boggs, founder and CEO of D&S Executive Career Management, adds: "As long as a cover letter is well-written and error-free, it will never hurt your chances of winning an interview."

So the more important the role is to you, the more effort you should put in.

When You Shouldn't Include a Cover Letter

There are certainly times when you should send a cover letter with your resume—but are there times when you shouldn't send one in? Here are a few instances:

• If the application platform doesn't have a space to upload one : If there isn't a space for you to attach your cover letter or other supporting documents, don't sweat it. This means that other applicants won't be able to send one either.
• If the job posting doesn't require one : If the post specifically states that you shouldn't include a cover letter, it's not a trick. The recruiter likely doesn't plan to read it, so it's best to reserve your time for other job search activities .
• If you aren't a strong writer : Lyons recommends forgoing a cover letter if you aren't a good writer and don't have anyone to help you. "The cover letter could be your first impression, and a badly written one—especially with grammatical errors—could make recruiters not want to screen you for the job."
• If you don't have time : Strapped for time? Goredema suggests "[focusing] on your resume and the application requirements versus haphazardly throwing together a few sentences just to meet an application deadline."

What To Do When a Cover Letter is 'Optional'

"Optional" cover letters can feel like a trick. You want to show the recruiter you're interested in the role, but you don't want to waste your time if it isn't necessary.

Lyons recommends skipping the optional cover letter "if your resume and LinkedIn profile are complete and no further explanation is needed."

However, it can be helpful to write one if "your resume doesn't tell the whole story about you." (Think resume gaps or career changes.)

Goredema believes it can be helpful to include a cover letter, regardless of whether it's a requirement. "Why not take the opportunity? It may help you to stand out. Going the extra mile by sending a well-written, personalized cover letter can only work to your advantage versus working against you."

So it can be helpful to put in extra effort if you have more to add to your application. But you shouldn't include a subpar cover letter just for the sake of it.

7 Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter

Regardless of your feelings toward the now-controversial cover letter, you'll likely find yourself writing one for at least some of the jobs you apply to.

Here's how to draft one that actually grabs a recruiter's attention:

1. Keep Things Short

Lyons suggests writing "three to four paragraphs at most, with two to three sentences in each paragraph."

Goredema adds: "Avoid long rambling sentences and keep your letter concise to make it easy to read."

Even if a particular recruiter loves cover letters, they might sift through hundreds of applications to find the right candidates. So it's best to be brief.

2. Follow the Rules

Some recruiters will ask you to include a portfolio link, send the cover letter via email, ask you to answer specific questions, etc. Be sure to fully read the job post's requirements—you don't want to be counted out for failing to follow directions.

3. Don't Repeat Your Resume

Lyons cautions repeating information the recruiter already has access to. Instead, "Tell the story of you—something important that you did not cover on your resume and how that story connects to the current position."

Think of it as connecting the dots between your experience, skills and capabilities. Explain why you'd be a good fit for the role rather than repeating the skills section of your resume .

4. Use Active Voice and Action Verbs

With active voice, the subject of a sentence performs the action. Passive voice puts more emphasis on the object of the sentence.

Using active voice is more direct and straightforward. Plus, it helps keep things brief.

Aim to use active voice throughout your resume and cover letter. This will help you sound clear and confident.

Here's an example of passive voice, plus how to fix it to use active voice:

• Passive voice : The treats were eaten by the dogs.
• Active voice : The dogs ate the treats.

If you struggle with writing in active voice consistently, think about the action verbs you'd use to describe your skills and experiences.

For example, instead of "I was tasked with x," you could say, "I managed x."

5. Be Specific

Include specific examples (i.e., instead of "I'm a team player," allude to a situation where you were a team player). If you've ever taken a writing course, you've probably heard the advice "show don't tell." The same advice applies to your resume and cover letter.

You could say "I have marketing experience," but what does that communicate to the reader? Not much.

Be specific about your experience and accomplishments. Instead, say "I led a marketing campaign that increased quarterly newsletter sign-ups by 40%."

6. Proofread

Check your cover letter for grammar and spelling mistakes before submitting it to avoid a professional faux pas.

Use spellcheck or an external app like Grammarly, which is also compatible with web browsers.

7. Customize It

At best, a generic cover letter is boring or a little awkward. At worst, it can be unprofessional if what you wrote about has nothing to do with the job you're applying for.

Think about it this way: your cover letter might be the deciding factor between you and another candidate with the same skills and experience. So you want to grab the recruiter's attention.

You don't need to spend tons of time rewriting your cover letter for every job application, though. Here are a few things you can do to stand out:

• Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name (you can sometimes find this information on the LinkedIn job post)
• Include the company name and job title
• Mention what you like about the specific company and its culture
• Detail skills and experience specifically mentioned on the job post

Boggs advises to "create a template that you can easily customize to include the relevant skills and experience for each job and employer."

Read on for inspiration for your own template.

Cover Letter Template

It can be time-consuming to write a new cover letter for every job application. Here's a template you can customize for different positions:

Dear [name of recruiter, "hiring manager"] , I saw the job posting for [exact title of role] and am excited about the opportunity. [1-2 sentences detailing why you're interested in the role/company.] In my previous role, [brief description of your accomplishments beyond what your resume states.] I also have [1-2 sentences detailing relevant experience, including specific skills and level of proficiency.] [If applicable: include a short paragraph with a link to your portfolio or any other relevant links.] Thank you for your time—if you'd like to schedule an interview, please feel free to contact me [brief description of the best time and method for contact.] Sincerely, [Your Name] [Phone Number] [Email]

Cover Letter FAQs

Still wondering if you need a cover letter for your specific situation? Or if recruiters actually read every cover letter? Read on for answers.

Do I Need a Cover Letter for a Part-Time Job?

The same advice applies to part-time jobs—cover letters aren't always necessary, but they can help you stand out. If you're especially interested in a part-time role, it's a good idea to submit a cover letter.

Do I Need a Cover Letter for an Internship?

Many people who apply for internships don't have significant prior work experience, so a cover letter is especially helpful here.

Instead of previous jobs, you can talk about:

• Your education
• Extra-curricular activities
• Transferrable skills
• Volunteer experience

You can include similar points if you're looking for an entry-level job and don't have prior work experience.

Can I Use AI To Write a Cover Letter?

Proceed with caution when using ChatGPT or a similar tool to write content for you. Employers may be using AI content detectors to identify which candidates used a shortcut.

AI programs like ChatGPT create content based on their existing libraries, so content is never really "new." Meaning it's impossible to tell if you're accidentally plagiarizing someone unless you heavily edit the chatbot's answers.

Goredema points out a potential pitfall in relying too heavily on AI: "If your goal is to get an interview, you don't want there to be a huge gap between how you communicate on paper versus how you communicate in person ."

Here are a few ways you can use AI to add to the writing process :

• Checking for active voice
• Adding action verbs
• Creating a rough draft
• Checking your writing tone

Do Recruiters Actually Read Your Cover Letter?

The big question—is the effort behind your cover letter worth it? Again, there's no perfect answer.

The most important thing is to ensure hiring managers have all the information they need to fairly consider you for a position.

Boggs cautions: "Remember, not all recruiters and hiring managers read cover letters, so

make sure to include all your relevant qualifications and accomplishments

in your resume as well, so these details don't get missed."

But there are other creative ways to stand out apart from a cover letter.

According to Goredema, "The general feedback I hear from the recruiters I work with is that a resume accompanied by their LinkedIn profile supersedes a cover letter because they will tell a recruiter at first glance what they need to know about a candidate."

So, are cover letters really necessary these days?

Lyons says that recruiters primarily care about two things:

• "Does an applicant have the skills and capabilities to do the job?"
• "Will the applicant fit the culture of the team and the company?"

Cover letters can help you stand out among a sea of applicants or explain difficult job situations—so in most cases, it's helpful to include one with your resume.

But whether you decide to send a cover letter with your resume or not, be sure the recruiter has all the information they need to be confident about you and your experience.

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HR Recruiter Cover Letter Example

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Starting your HR Recruiter cover letter should involve a professional greeting and a compelling opening statement. Address the hiring manager by name if possible, as it personalizes your letter. If you don't know their name, use a professional greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager". Your opening statement should grab the reader's attention. Highlight your enthusiasm for the role and the company, and briefly mention your most relevant qualifications or experiences. For example, "As a seasoned HR professional with over 10 years of experience in recruitment and talent management, I was thrilled to see your job posting for an HR Recruiter. I am confident that my skills and passion make me a strong candidate for this role." This approach shows that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.

The best way for HR Recruiters to end a cover letter is by summarizing the key points, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity, and providing a call to action. This could be an invitation for further discussion or a statement of intent to follow up. For example, "I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and look forward to discussing my qualifications in more detail. I will follow up next week to see if we can arrange a time to speak." This approach shows initiative and interest, while also providing a clear next step. Always remember to thank the reader for their time and consideration, and end with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name.

HR Recruiters typically don't write cover letters, as they are the ones reviewing them. However, if they were to write one, perhaps for a higher position within HR or another company, they should include the following: 1. Personal Information: Start with your name, address, contact number, and email address at the top of the letter. 2. Salutation: Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if possible. If not, use a professional greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager." 3. Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and mention the position you're applying for. You can also mention where you found the job posting. 4. Body: This is where you highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. As an HR recruiter, you might want to focus on your ability to identify and attract top talent, your knowledge of employment laws and regulations, your interpersonal skills, and any successful hiring campaigns you've been part of. Use specific examples and quantify your achievements where possible. 5. Company Knowledge: Show that you've researched the company and understand its mission and values. Explain why you're interested in working there and how you can contribute. 6. Closing: Thank the reader for their time and express your interest in discussing the position further. You can also provide any additional information they might need, such as your availability for an interview. 7. Signature: End with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and signature. Remember, a cover letter should complement, not duplicate, your resume. It's your chance to tell a story about your career and show why you'd be a good fit for the position. It should be tailored to each job you apply for, highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job description.

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