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Cover Letter Examples

2 years ago   •   9 min read

Finding a good freelance job is more challenging than it seems.

Clients aren't always accepting freelance work, although when they are, it's possible to find lots of them on Upwork.com and other freelancing platforms .

The Challenge is for freelancers to write excellent cover letters that clients actually notice. We've compiled the following samples as starting points for cover letter writing.

Social Management Project Cover Letter Example

Hi [client name],

I am writing to you because I am interested in working with you on your Social Manage Project. I have over ten years of experience working with social media management, and I believe that my skillset is a perfect match for your needs.

I understand that you are looking for someone who can help you make sure your social media accounts are up-to-date and engaging, so that you can increase engagement and drive leads to your website. My goal is to provide you with the tools needed to accomplish this goal.

I have worked with companies like [company names] and [company names], who have hired me as their social media manager because they recognized my passion for what I do, as well as my ability to get results. Please feel free to check out some of my work samples at [link].

My fee is $XXX per month, paid monthly in advance via Upwork or PayPal. If this sounds like something you would be interested in discussing further, please let me know!

Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Example

Dear [client name],

I'm writing to you today because I'm interested in the Mechanical Engineering job on Upwork . As an experienced Mechanical Engineering freelancer, I'd like to apply for this position.

I understand that your company is looking for someone with extensive experience working on a variety of projects and a proven record of success. I have over 10 years of experience working as a Mechanical Engineering freelancer, and I'm ready to show you how my skills can help you meet your goals.

I've worked with clients from all over the world, including the U.S., Canada, India, and Australia. My clients have included small businesses and major corporations alike. Some of my past clients include [list previous client names], who have been very happy with my work and would be happy to provide references if needed.

I specialize in engineering, design, development, and manufacturing. My skills include:

• Designing prototypes
• 3D modeling
• Building prototypes from scratch or using existing parts
• Making sure that all parts are compatible with one another during assembly
• Creating detailed schematics of the entire system
• Providing technical support throughout the project lifecycle

I look forward to hearing from you about this position!

Financial Analysis Project Cover Letter Example

Dear Mr./Ms. [client name],

I am a top-rated freelancer on Upwork with over 20 years of experience in the financial industry. I have worked with a range of companies, including [company name] and [company name].

I specialize in creating financial models, forecasting models, and analytics reports for clients both large and small. I can help you create a custom solution that will meet your needs and help you achieve your goals.

I believe that every job starts with a conversation. It is important for us to discuss what you are looking for before we begin so that our work together is successful from start to finish.

Please let me know if you would like to set up a time to talk about your project further.

Thank you for your consideration,

Copywriting Project Cover Letter Example

I am write to applying for the  freelance copywriter project .

I have been working as a freelancer for the past five years and have been able to produce high-quality content for various different industries. I am currently working on a web development project with a client in the finance industry. This will be my fifth project with this client, and we have just begun to work together on the next project. I have also worked on a project for [client name], where I wrote copy for an advertisement that was published in [publication name]. The client was very happy with the result and asked me to write more content for them.

In addition to writing copy, I also take care of all other aspects of the job including editing, formatting, and proofreading. My background includes working as an editor at [publication name] where I edited articles written by journalists and bloggers who were not native English speakers or writers.

I would love to be considered for this position so that we can get started with another wonderful project together! Please let me know if there is anything else you would like from me so that we can move forward.

Graphic Design Project Cover Letter Example

Dear [name],

I saw your posting for a graphic design project and I believe I am the perfect candidate for the job. I have been working as a freelance graphic designer for over four years and have experience with projects like yours.

My experience includes:

• Creating logos and branding elements
• Building websites from scratch
• Designing brochures, catalogs, and business cards
• Creating brand guides to help you maintain your brand consistency across all of your marketing materials

I am confident that I can provide you with the highest quality work possible. Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or concerns about my qualifications.

SEO Project Cover Letter Example

I am writing to apply for the Freelancer SEO project. I have been working as a freelance SEO expert for 5 years, and have worked on a variety of projects in that time.

My expertise lies in creating great content that will get your site noticed and give it the boost it needs to rank well in search engines. I also do keyword research and optimize your existing pages to make sure they're ranking as high as possible.

I am confident that I can provide you with high-quality results. Please let me know if there is anything else you would like to see from me before making a decision!

Data Analysis Project Cover Letter Example

Dear [company name],

I am writing to apply for the Data Analysis Project. I would like to thank you for taking the time to consider my application.

As a freelancer, I have worked on several projects in data analysis and data entry. I have experience working with spreadsheets and databases, as well as SQL and Python. I am also familiar with VBA, Matlab, R, SAS, and SPSS.

I believe that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this position. If you have any questions about my qualifications, please do not hesitate to contact me. Please let me know when you are able to schedule an interview so that we can discuss the details of this project further.

Illustrator Project Cover Letter Example

Dear [Client Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Illustrator project on Upwork .

I understand that you are looking for someone with experience in both illustration and design, and I believe that my skillset is a good match for your needs.

I have been using Adobe Illustrator for 8 years, and I have been an active member of the Adobe Creative Cloud community since 2011. My work has been featured in several books and magazines; I have also taught classes on how to use Adobe Illustrator.

In addition, I have a portfolio of five previous projects completed as part of this platform at [URL], which can be found here: [URL]. These projects were long-term collaborations with clients who were extremely satisfied with my work.

If you would like further information about me or my work history, please let me know!

Video Editing Project Cover Letter Example

Hi [client's name],

I am writing to apply for your video editing project on Upwork .

I saw your description and immediately knew that I wanted to work with you. I have been a freelance video editor for over 10 years, working in both commercial and personal settings. I've edited everything from corporate training videos to personal home movies, and I would love the opportunity to help make your project a reality!

The way I see it, there are two key elements when it comes to editing a video: understanding what the client needs and being able to get it done quickly. It's important for me to be able to understand what you want out of the finished product in order for me to create something that will meet your expectations. And it's also key that I can deliver quickly so you can use the video as soon as possible (and maybe even before time runs out).

I've included some samples of my work below so you can see what kind of results I can deliver when given a deadline. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns about my qualifications or experience!

Blockchain Development Project Cover Letter Example

I am writing to you because I would like to be considered for your Upwork project: Blockchain Theme Customization. I believe that I can meet your needs, and I look forward to discussing how I can help you with your project.

I understand the importance of meeting deadlines, which is why I always meet my own deadlines on time or early. This is one of the many reasons why my clients keep coming back to me over and over again—they know they can trust me to do what they need done when they need it done.

I am also a skilled designer who has worked with clients in many different industries, including finance, e-commerce, and healthcare. As you can see from my previous work samples [list of past projects], I have a lot of experience designing for different industries.

If you would like to learn more about my skillset before deciding whether or not to hire me for this project , please let me know!

Mobile App Development Project Cover Letter Example

I am writing to express my interest in working with you on the [project name]. I have been a Freelancer since 2016, and have experience in many different areas of web development.

My skills include:

• Mobile App Developing Theme Customization
• eCommerce Website Development and Maintenance
• WordPress Theme Development and Customization (including WooCommerce)
• HTML5, CSS3, jQuery, Bootstrap, PHP

I believe that my experience working with Upwork will allow me to complete this job quickly and efficiently. My portfolio includes many examples of mobile application development work that I have completed for clients. I would be happy to provide you with more information about my past work if you would like to see more examples.

Shopify Development Project Cover Letter Example

I’m [your name], and I’m a Shopify expert. I can help you build your Shopify store, or customize an existing theme to fit your brand. I’ve been working on Shopify since 2016, and I have extensive experience in all aspects of the platform .

I understand that you need someone who can take your idea and bring it to life, so let me explain how my skills can help you:

• I have built many successful Shopify stores from scratch, including [store name].
• I also have extensive experience customizing existing themes for clients. For example, here are some of my current projects : [link to portfolio page].
• I can use CSS, HTML, and Javascript to make any necessary changes to your theme. I also have experience with image editing programs such as Photoshop and Illustrator.

I think this project would be an excellent fit for me because I have extensive experience. I'd love to chat more about how we can work together!

Python Development Project Cover Letter Example

I am applying for the Python Developer position on Upwork . I have been working as a Python developer since 2008, and I have been using Django since 2010. I have worked with many different types of clients and their needs, but I have always been able to deliver high-quality work in a timely manner. I am confident that my skills and experience would be a great match for your project.

My qualifications include:

• 5 years of experience in developing web applications using Python, Django, JavaScript and HTML5
• 3 years of experience in building web APIs
• 2 years of experience in designing and developing RESTful APIs
• 1 year of experience in building mobile apps for Android devices
• 1 year of experience in building mobile apps for iPhone devices
• 1 year of experience in integrating Google Maps into web applications

I would like to discuss further details about this position so that we can determine if I am the right candidate for your needs. Please let me know if you are interested in speaking further about this opportunity. Thank you very much!

WordPress Development Project Cover Letter Example

I am an experienced WordPress developer, with more than 5 years of experience in web development and design. I have worked on many projects of different sizes and types, from small blogs to complex eCommerce sites.

I understand that you are looking for a developer who can create a custom theme for your website, and I would love to be the one to help you out with this project!

My background includes working on websites for companies such as [company name], where I created a custom theme for their new website. I also worked on another site for a private client, which was a blog about fishing. This is just one example of some of my work samples that show my ability to create custom themes. In addition to these examples, I have also built multiple other sites using WordPress as well as other frameworks such as Joomla and Drupal.

If you'd like to see some examples of my work or speak more about this opportunity, please let me know!

JavaScript Development Project Cover Letter Example

I am interested in working on your  JavaScript Developing project . I have been working as a freelance developer for more than 5 years and have a great deal of experience in front-end development.

I believe that my skills and experience will be a good fit for this project, as well as my ability to work independently with limited supervision. I am also excited to learn more about your company's goals and how I can help you achieve them.

I hope that my portfolio and past work samples will show you that I am the right person for this job! If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me anytime.

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How To Write A Freelance Cover Letter (Tips And Examples)

Crafting an outstanding freelance cover letter can be a game-changer in your search for your next client.

A well-crafted cover letter showcases your skills and qualifications and helps you stand out.

With the freelance job market becoming increasingly competitive, it’s vital to differentiate yourself from other applicants.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the importance of a well-written cover letter, tips for creating a captivating cover letter, some of my own examples and how to write a freelance cover letter that avoids common mistakes.

Let’s get into it.

Key takeaways

• Craft an impactful freelance cover letter to stand out from other applicants.
• Use research, skillset, previous work and personality to highlight relevant skills and achievements.
• Format your cover letter with a clear structure, readability & visual appeal for a polished result.

The Importance Of A Freelance Cover Letter

A well-crafted cover letter can significantly impact your search for your next freelance gig.

It’s an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and qualifications and make you stand out from other applicants.

By tailoring your cover letter to the specific job requirements, you can show your enthusiasm for the role and the employer.

Reading the job description carefully and ensuring you address all queries in the job description will increase your chances of getting the freelance gig, and you don’t need to be a freelance writer to achieve this.

Researching the client or company, personalising your letter, and showcasing your work samples can lend credibility to your letter and pique the prospective clients’ interest. By putting in extra effort, you can make a lasting impression on the hiring manager and increase your chances of gaining freelance work.

Crafting Your Freelancer Cover Letter

A successful freelancer’s cover letter should include specific elements to make it stand out.

By researching the client or company, starting with a brief introduction, highlighting your relevant skills and achievements, showcasing your unique personality and passion, and including examples of your work relevant to the job, you can create a compelling cover letter that grabs the attention of potential employers.

In the following sections, we’ll explore each of these elements in detail, providing valuable tips and insights on how to craft a captivating freelance cover letter.

Let’s dive into these essential components to help you create a cover letter that can open doors to new opportunities!

Research The Client Or Company

Before crafting your cover letter, it’s essential to research the client or company to ensure you write a tailored and effective letter.

Start by exploring their website, social media pages, and news articles to comprehensively understand the company’s mission, vision, values, culture, goals, challenges, and achievements.

Familiarizing yourself with the client or company can demonstrate your enthusiasm and preparedness to become a valuable asset to their team.

By understanding their needs and priorities, you can tailor your cover letter to address those aspects, making your application more appealing to the client or company.

When you’re done researching your client, it’s time to research the job description. This will be the foundation for your cover letter.

Read it thoroughly, and note down sections you want to address in your cover letter to show your potential client that you’ve read and understood the job description.

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Start Your Cover Letter With A Brief Introduction

An engaging introduction is crucial for grabbing the hiring manager’s or potential client’s attention.

In your introduction, include who you are, your history, and why you’re the right person for the job. It’s a great way to show off your soft skills as well.

Keep the introduction brief; you want to hook in your potential client. Don’t go into organizational skills or a wide range of complicated explanations.

If possible, address the recipient by their actual name to show your dedication and enthusiasm. If you can’t find the name, I usually write “Hi”.

This approach demonstrates that you have taken the time to research the company and adds a personal touch to your cover letter.

Save this introduction with your other additions, and then create a cover letter template at the end. This will save you a significant amount of time but still remember to customise each cover letter for each freelance gig.

Highlight Your Relevant Skills And Achievements To The Job

Next up, you want to highlight your relevant skills for the job. Don’t just list everything you can do.

If you’re a graphic designer, the client asks for graphic designers who can use Photoshop. Then it’s not always relevant to tell the client you know how to use Word. That’s too generic, so keep it to the point and showcase your extensive skills within relevant skill sets.

You want to show the potential client your impressive achievements as well. This is your chance to show off your extensive experience in how you’ve come to where you are today.

Show off your beautiful graphic design skills if you’re a graphic designer or a freelance writer, then show off some pieces of content you’re proud of.

But again, it’s super important to keep to your cover letter format and keep everything concrete for the freelance job you’re applying for.

It shows your potential client that you’ve read and understood the job description.

Showcase Your Unique Personality and Passion

You don’t want to send a boring cover letter. Clients receive tons of cover letters, so you need to stand out from the pile of all those freelancers who writes a generic cover letter.

It’s time to let you shine through the cover letter, show your communication skills and let the potential client get a scent of who you are, how you work, and what you can do for him or her to take them and their business to the next level.

I usually include a small story if I have a relevant one, or I just let my personality shine through how I write the cover letter. My technical skills are a big part of who I am, so I emphasize that.

Include Examples Of Your Work Relevant To The Job

Including examples of work relevant to the job in your freelance cover letter is a fantastic way to demonstrate your expertise and show you have the relevant qualifications.

I usually attach links to specific examples of work I’ve done for a range of clients where it’s similar or remotely similar to the job description I’m applying for. This is super helpful for the potential client to see my capabilities and professional experience.

By only showing the relevant examples from your portfolio, you even further showcase you’ve read and understood the gig description.

Ask Questions To The Job Description

Another way to stand out from the many cover letters sent is by asking questions about the job description.

If something is unclear, or you know, based on your professional experience, something doesn’t add up. Then ask the questions. It shows the potential client you’ve taken the time to dive into their job description and found some things creating doubt.

If you’re a graphic designer, you might want to know what style they’re looking for. Or if you’re one of many professional writers, you want to know what type of writing style they’re pursuing.

Don’t hold back. Ask as many relevant questions as you can.

Formatting Your Freelancer Cover Letter

Proper formatting is crucial when crafting a freelance cover letter. Ensuring your cover letter has a clear and concise structure and focuses on readability and visual appeal can help it stand out to potential employers.

You don’t need to be an expert in graphic design. Keep it easy to read with lists, line breaks and highlighted words if possible.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into specific formatting tips to make your freelance cover letter as polished and professional as possible.

Use a Clear and Concise Structure

A clear and concise structure in a cover letter helps ensure that the reader can quickly and easily comprehend the core points of the letter. Using short and simple words, short paragraphs, and bullet points can increase readability and make your cover letter more engaging.

The reader of your core letter will most likely skim through it, so make sure the essential parts are highlighted subtly or easy to catch while skimming.

Crafting a concise cover letter involves removing irrelevant or unnecessary information, making it more impactful, eliminating grammar mistakes and making it easier to read.

Be sure to include your name, contact information, an engaging introduction, a list of relevant skills and qualifications, and a powerful closing paragraph to create a well-structured cover letter.

Focus on Readability and Visual Appeal

In addition to readability, visual appeal is key to making your cover letter stand out. Choose a professional and clean font between 10 and 12 points in size to create a visually appealing look.

Your cover letter should have consistent formatting, spacing, and margins to ensure a polished appearance.

Again you don’t need to be an expert in graphic design. If you want to add a graphic element, you can use a tool like Canva .

Proofreading your cover letter is essential for maintaining readability and visual appeal.

Double-check for spelling or grammar errors, and consider asking a friend or colleague to review your cover letter for additional feedback. This extra step can help you catch any mistakes and ensure your cover letter is polished and professional.

Examples Of Successful Freelance Cover Letters

I want to share some of the examples I’ve used in the past and still use today that have worked and helped me get clients. And then, after the examples, I’ll share my cover letter template.

Remember, the key to a successful freelance cover letter is to tailor it to the job and showcase your unique personality, passion, skills, and relevant achievements.

By taking the time to research the client or company and incorporating relevant keywords and work examples, you can create a cover letter that captures the attention of potential employers and sets you apart from other applicants.

My jobs are in Danish, as I’m from Denmark, but I’ve translated them to give you an idea.

Example 1: WordPress task

The job description is as follows:

We are looking for a strong, experienced front-end developer to help us build a responsive mega menu or get a plugin. We have struggled with various plugins without success. We have all the UX and design ready. Our design is awesome, and we have big ambitions as we are the biggest in our market. Only contact us if you are among the best and are confident that you have the competencies. Because it’s urgent and we want to find the right person from the start.

We expect the first project to require about 3 days of work.

We also have many more tasks in relation to We also have many more tasks related to the development of our digital media monitoring platform, so if the task is solved satisfactorily, there is a basis for a closer connection as a permanent freelancer.

Please describe the relevant experience in your bid.

My answer, which won the job, was as follows:

I can definitely do that! I’ve been working with front-end for 10+ years and really find myself at home in the field. I started as a curious young mind and worked in many different front-end frameworks. When it comes to CMS systems, WordPress is a clear favourite. I think it’s great that you don’t compromise on your design. There are more of them out there.

If you want to see some of the WordPress websites I’ve created, here’s a small excerpt: https://wastecontrol.dk https://iotsensors.dk https://phillipstemann.com https://www.factofly.com

I hope you find my profile interesting, and if so, I’m more than happy to do a Skype call at your convenience.

Otherwise, I wish you a very good day.

Kind regards Phillip Stemann

I won this because of my straightforward approach, but it was to the point, and I listed relevant resources.

Example 2: CTO Position In A Startup

The job description was as follows:

We have created solid traction in the online marketing market in just one year. We expect to break even by the end of 2018.

We seek a freelance CTO to join us on this journey and develop our scalable platform and future products.

Your role as CTO You will play a key role in operations as: – The lead full-stack developer and architect – Responsible for setting up the technical team

Your competences We expect you to: – Have a business and user-driven approach to the development of our platform – Experience with PHP development and MVC principles – Can work with both backend and frontend – Are passionate and entrepreneurial in your way of working – Have basic knowledge of online marketing – Experience developing, testing, deploying, bug fixing and hosting

Technical keywords – Nginx, PHP, MySql (LEMP STACK) – CSS3, SCSS & vanilla javascript – Neos Flow PHP Framework – MVC – Doctrine ORM – Domain-Driven Design – Stripe API integration – Google Ads API integration – Mailchimp & Mandrill

We prefer full-time on a project basis, but we are open if you have 3-4 days a week and understand that you have multiple clients at the same time 🙂

We look forward to hearing from you here at Worksome.

Super exciting post. It’s definitely something that catches my attention! I have been working with PHP since I was a young boy of 13 years old I have been driven by my passion, and it has brought me to the broad knowledge I possess today. I have worked in different countries to understand what different countries do well and poorly. Based on this, I have created the best setup for myself and my working techniques. I have knowledge in PHP, Golang and NodeJS on the back-end part. On the front-end, I know HTML, CSS, JavaScript, VueJS, ReactJS and AngularJS. I’ve set up countless sites over the years and integrated with a fleet of APIs, so it really sticks in my head. Most recently, I went to Lisbon a year ago to help build a company that reached 10 employees. It was a great learning experience in many ways.

I would love to come in for an interview should you find my profile interesting. I look forward to hearing from you.

With kind regards Phillip Stemann

So you can see this approach was entirely different. I had no relevant portfolio to show, so I didn’t waste the client’s potential time. I just went straight to the case, listing out my expertise.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Freelancer Cover Letter

Avoiding common mistakes is essential to ensure your freelance cover letter stands out.

These mistakes include using generic language, not addressing the recipient, and not including a call to action . By being mindful of these common pitfalls, you can create a more effective and captivating cover letter.

Other common mistakes to avoid include re-using cover letters to multiple clients, including irrelevant information, and failing to proofread your cover letter for errors.

By addressing these mistakes and following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can craft a freelance cover letter that makes a great impression on potential employers and increases your chances of securing an interview.

In conclusion, crafting an outstanding freelance cover letter is essential to your job search.

And once you’re through to your client, you’ve sent a successful freelance cover letter, and you had your first meeting, it’s time to send your proposal and, next, your contract. Here is how you do it .

By understanding the importance of a well-written cover letter, researching the client and company, creating a captivating introduction, showcasing your skills and achievements, and avoiding common mistakes, you can set yourself apart from other applicants and increase your chances of securing freelance work.

Remember, the key to a successful freelance cover letter is to tailor it to the job and showcase your unique personality, passion, skills, and achievements.

Following the tips and insights in this blog post, you can create a compelling cover letter that opens doors to new opportunities and helps you excel in your freelance career.

How do I write a cover letter as a freelancer with no experience?

To write a cover letter without experience, open your letter by describing your enthusiasm for the position and why you’re a great fit. Explain that you don’t have related work experience but share transferable skills that make you an ideal candidate.

End your cover letter by thanking the reader and reiterating your interest in the job.

How to write a cover letter for an Upwork job?

Make sure to tailor your cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. Focus on the qualifications most important to the employer and include relevant examples or stories from your past experiences.

To write a cover letter for Upwork, start with a personalized introduction that quickly explains why you are the perfect fit for the position.

Describe your professional experience and skills, emphasizing how they can help the employer meet their needs. Finally, provide clear contact information and any other documents they may need to complete your application.

I've been working as a web freelancer for 11+ years. I've been through all the ups and downs, and I want to share my story and my tips and tricks to help you avoid the downs and make your freelance career the most successful possible.

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Freelance Cover Letter: What You Should Include + Examples

A well-detailed freelance cover letter has the potential to make your profile stand out – a prospect that most self-employed people want.

Not only does it give you the chance to express to your clients what makes you the right fit for the job , but it also shows clients how you’ve put in the work to better understand them and their needs .

Learn in this article why you should use a freelance cover letter, what information you should include in it and download our free cover letter for freelance work !

Benefits of a freelance cover letter

• Things to include in your cover letter

Freelance cover letter sample (Free download)

Before we get started on all the things you should include in your cover letter, let’s first talk about why a cover letter is so important to freelancers and how it can help you with your client proposals .

First things first, a cover letter tells your clients exactly who you are and what it is you can do for them. It allows you to highlight your strengths and tells your client that you are serious about having the opportunity to work for them .

Another reason why you should include a cover letter with every proposal is that it has the added benefit of bolstering your resume. If your resume is not persuasive enough to garner a call back, a cover letter attached to it can help.

Need a hand with your freelancer resume? 💡 How to List Freelance Work on Your CV

Things to include in your freelance cover letter

Now that we’ve established the importance of a cover lette r, let’s take a look at some of the most important things that your cover letter should include :

#1 Your name and information

Start your cover letter with your name and your contact information . You don’t want potential clients hunting for information on how to contact you should they wish to work with you. Your contact information should include your email and phone number .

#2 Date + client’s name and information

The next thing to include in your cover letter is the current date, name of your client, and any available contact information (email or office address).

Make sure to position this on the left side of your cover letter as it is generally what is expected.

#3 Salutation (greeting)

Always greet your client with a polite salutation (Dear Mr., Ms., or Mx.) before you start your opening paragraph. It’s always a good idea to r esearch your client and use their last name in your salutation – this shows that you’ve done your research.

Seeing their name on the cover letter may grab the hiring person’s interest and they will probably be more receptive to your application .

Join our IT freelancer community today! Create your freelance profile in just 2 minutes .  

#4 Introduction

The beginning first paragraph of your cover letter should contain an opening line that hooks your client in straight away . For example, you could give them feedback or a compliment.

Try mentioning how you learned about the project, what caught your attention from the project description and show your enthusiasm for the position by mentioning some facts about it.

Hello Mr. Maas, Thanks for adding the Profile Verification feature to freelancermap. I’m a long-time freelancermap user and since I verified my profile I’m getting in touch more often. I noticed you are currently also looking for a SEO expert and I’d be happy to help you rank for keywords such as “XY” or “YX” in the top 5. I belive my past experience could make a valuable asset for the team.

#5 Your achievements and reasons why you should be considered

Now it’s time to start writing the main body of your cover letter. You should start by listing your achievements – consider adding in factual data about how your work helped improve a particular product or company. 

An achievement example to include in your cover letter as a digital marketer or SEO :

For the past 6 months, I helped XY place 15 relevant keywords in the top search results, resulting in an increase of X% in traffic and therefore an increase of X% in the number of customers.

By doing X and Y, I increased (Client X) website conversion rates by 32%.

Including numbers and data rather than vague achievements increases your chances of landing the project because it shows your clients how your work can improve their performance.

Tip: Include relevant keywords that the clients used in the job description (e.g. responsibilities or needed qualifications). Match those keywords with your actual skills to demonstrate that you would be a good fit for the project.

#6 Conclusion and CTA

Conclude your cover letter with a brief (but strong) closing paragraph. Reiterate your value to your client and hint at how you can be of use to them by teasing an impressive achievement.

Here’s an example of a closing paragraph for a freelance cover letter :

I’d be super happy to show you how I was able to increase (previous company)’s revenue in a short period of time. Would you have time for a 15-min call? I propose August 5 @ 9am or August 9 @ 10am (EST). If that works, please send me a zoom or other video link for the call.

#7 Sign off and name

Sign off your cover letter by using simple one-liners such as ‘ Kind regards ’ or ‘ Sincerely ’ along with your full name at the end .  Also do not forget to thank them for their time and consideration.

I appreciate your time and consideration . Best regards, The freelancer

More information and tips for a cover letter for a freelance job:

• Proofread – Review your cover letter for typos or spelling mistakes (Especially in a cover letter for a freelance writer!).
• Build trust – Clients just want the work to be done efficiently and on time. Show them how you worked with other clients.
• Mention tools you use for work, communication or project management – This will help the client understand your working process.
• Availability – Will you be working with other members of their team?If the client is based in the US say: I am also available in US time zones.
• Technical excellence – No 2 freelance jobs are the same, read through the project description and identify what expertise is especially required by the client. Let them know that you have that important skill.

With the examples provided before, you can customise your own freelancer cover letter , but here’s a free template that you can use to get your own cover letter started !

You can download it (no e-mail address required) and use it for reference.

Don’t forget to customise it according to your preferences and the job in question .

Of course, depending on the work to do, the cover letter will be different. A freelance translator cover letter  would have fewer similarities with a cover letter for a freelance web developer in terms of skills.

However, the cover letter format and structure will apply to any industry.

Do you have a cover letter example that gets you instant responses from clients? Share your tips and experience with us!

You might also like :

• NDA for freelancers – Tips & template
• How to convince clients they should hire you
• Templates & Documents every Freelancer should Have

Natalia Campana

Natalia is part of the international team at freelancermap. She loves the digital world, social media and meeting different cultures. Before she moved to Germany and joined the freelancermap team she worked in the US, UK and her home country Spain. Now she focuses on helping freelancers and IT professionals to find jobs and clients worldwide at www.freelancermap.com

Grato Natália!

Como sempre nos dando apoio e dicas super importantes para o nosso sucesso!

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How to create a freelance writer cover letter that works (with examples)

A cover letter is like a handshake: it tells your clients everything they need to know about you as a person. It hints at work ethic, fairness, talent, and even enthusiasm. For freelance writers in particular, a good cover letter can make a huge difference when trying to secure a freelance writer job .

In this mini-guide, we’re covering everything freelance writers need to know about writing a great cover letter.

What does a cover letter do?

As a freelance writer, a cover letter brings a certain level of humanity into the freelance hiring process. Particularly when hiring from marketplaces like Upwork, freelance writing jobs can feel faceless. You submit a form and hope for the best. Meanwhile, a company hiring freelancers has nothing but a bunch of form submissions to judge people by. The cover letter breaks through that noise to (hopefully) build a human connection.

For a freelance writer particularly, a cover letter also does a few extra things and shares additional information:

Showcase your writing ability : A well-written cover letter is a work sample unto itself.

Build excitement : As a freelance writer, use your language and storytelling writing ability to entice the reader down the cover letter.

Encourage conversation : Share a lot of information, but leave just a bit unsaid in your cover letter so a hiring manager wants to reach out. Ideally, write your cover letter in a way that entices a recruiter to want to learn more about your writing, your experience, your resume, and see if you might be a good freelance writer for them.

4 elements of a strong cover letter

A cover letter as a freelance writer is meant to do one thing: get you to the next step, whether that’s an interview, resume review, or landing the freelance writer job. With that in mind, the strongest cover letters will have the following elements:

1. Awareness of who you’re talking to

As a freelance writer, ideally you’re addressing your cover letters to the person reviewing applications. In most companies that will be the head of the department (for freelance writers, that usually means marketing or editorial), though occasionally HR will step in to support.

Once you’ve figured out who the person is, check out their LinkedIn profile (and updates) to see how they speak and interact with people - then tailor your cover letter to that person. Who knows, you might even find they used to be a freelance writer too!

If you can’t find a specific person, check out the company’s existing content to get cues for tone, style, and topic. And if you’re applying for an anonymous freelance writer job where the company is only named if you get a call back, read the posting carefully then mimic its tone and style in your cover letter.

2. Succinctness

Get to the point in your cover letter. Avoid passive voice (especially when discussing your accomplishments), and don’t make the cover letter longer than it needs to be. Remember: a cover letter is meant to get you to the next step, not give them your life’s story.

You will need to self-edit your cover letter after it’s written, removing any areas you’ve been repetitive or offered too many examples (when one would clarify the point perfectly). This is especially true as a freelance writer, since you need to demonstrate your writing chops in your cover letter.

3. Relevant tone

Whenever possible, research the company’s media kit to understand its vision and the words it uses to describe itself. Use this information as an editorial cue in order to match their tone as best you can in your cover letter (or at least get close to the brand’s tone while staying true to your personal style). If you can’t find a media kit, read interviews with the company’s execs or read the company’s about page. Think about the cover letter writing process almost like an interview you'd do as a freelance writer. Instead of asking questions, you're reading the company's website.

This tip is especially critical for freelance writers, since your cover letter is the first piece of writing a potential client will see. If a brand prides itself on its casual tone and you write a highly-structured, ultra-professional cover letter, you’ll come off as out of touch.

4. Keyword optimization

Write your initial cover letter draft ignoring all keywords, but add them into your cover letter during your self-editing round. First, look for obvious switches where you can sub in your word (e.g. “hard-working”) for their word (e.g. “hard worker”). Then look for context switches where you can reorient an example to better showcase what they are looking for (for example: switching up a client story to highlight your time management skills versus your editorial ability). After that, look for any opportunities to naturally insert a keyword (if you see one that you have a story for, but you hadn’t included in your original cover letter writing).

What to include

When writing your cover letter, here are the key things to include:

An introduction and clear statement of intent : Unless instructed otherwise by the job posting, start your cover letter with a clear introduction and statement of intent (which position you’re applying for). You should also address the cover letter to the hiring manager, if you can identify that person's name.

Demonstrative examples : Use your cover letter to highlight client capabilities—time management, project management, etc.—that aren’t immediately apparent with a writing sample. Tailor these examples to what’s asked or highlighted in the job posting.

Your experience : Explain in your cover letter how your experience sets you up perfectly to be a freelance writer for this company. You can pull example language from the job application and job description, highlighting how you fit that description perfectly.

Link to a relevant portfolio : While your cover letter can be a work sample, you should also include a link to your freelance writing portfolio . Just make sure it’s only relevant samples, not a long web page with dozens of links. This is a great way to show off your writing experience, including both articles and other forms of writing you've done.

Achievements or awards, if relevant : Sometimes the job will require subject matter expertise or demonstrated knowledge in a certain style of writing. On top of work samples, you might want to include any achievements or awards that prove your knowledge in your cover letter. This can be particularly helpful if you have an achievement in a subject but don’t have a specific writing sample for it. This is also something you can bring up in the job interview, if that's a part of the application.

Any additional asks from the job posting : Different jobs will ask for different things, but make sure you include anything that’s asked. Some asks are job-relevant, such as credentials, while others are tasks to assess if you’re paying attention, for example something like “to prove you read this job posting, include the word ‘potato’ in your cover letter somewhere.”

Connection to your resume : Make sure you reference your resume, but don't give away all the details. Instead, use your cover letter to tease what a hiring manager might see in your resume, enticing them to check it out. Note: You should always tailor your resume to each job application process.

Contact information : You will likely include this elsewhere in the application as well, but for good measure you can also include your email address (or marketplace profile URL for direct messages) under your name at the end of the letter.

Pitfalls to avoid

If you want your cover letter to stand out in a good way, avoid these pitfalls:

More than one page : Never write a cover letter that's more than one page unless the job description explicitly requests it. Most of the time, people don't read cover letters if they are longer than one page, which means you risk a client missing out on an important example or quality copywriting skills.

Passive voice : If you naturally write in passive voice as a writer, stomp it out in your cover letter (and resume).

You can usually find passive voice with one of two tests: if there’s no person doing the action (“usually created…”) or when you use two verbs (“mistakes were made”). In all cases, revise. Either edit the sentence to put yourself in the action or, if you didn’t do the action, remove the sentence (see: filler content).

Filler content : Additional segues, “talkative language” (e.g. “as well as” versus simply “and), or explaining what everyone else did in a project are prime examples of cover letter filler content.

Paying another writer to write your cover letter for you : As a freelance writer, paying someone else to write your cover letter is dangerous. It’s either going to be low quality and you won’t get the job, or it will be high quality and your client will expect you to produce that style of writing throughout the project.

Since a lot of freelance writing involves employing your own style, displaying someone else’s style for your cover letter is a huge potential problem that hides your experience.

Examples to take inspiration from

Not sure what your cover letter should look like? Here are three cover letters we like from Great Sample Resume, LiveCareer, and The Balance SMB.

Check out this cover letter example on Great Sample Resume .

Check out this cover letter example on LiveCareer .

Check out this example on The Balance SMB .

Remember to be human in your cover letters

As a freelance writer, the term “cover letter” can spark fear, but you're really just writing an introductory letter to share your experience and work you've done with past clients. Treat it like a conversation with your prospective client about the position instead of a big deal. From there, send it off and hope for the best. In the meantime, work on any existing client work you have or sourcing more deals—then you won’t have time to worry about whether they liked your letter.

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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Freelance Job

Here’s how to write a cover letter for a freelance job.

Melissa Mauro

As a freelancer, finding new clients and gigs might just be the most difficult and time-consuming task. Of course, your connections and networking skills matter a lot for this, but your resume does too.

Nevertheless, there is something that many freelancers either underestimate or forget about. Your cover letter could be the component that would ultimately determine whether you get a job or not. Hence, here’s how to write a cover letter for a freelance job.

#1 Understand Cover Letters

It goes without saying that you absolutely need a cover letter as a freelancer. But why exactly is this? Here are just some reasons to use a cover letter to get a freelance job:

It shows your professionalism. You understand that a resume and portfolio are not always enough to show who you are as a person and why someone would want to hire you which is why you are including a cover letter.

It shows your motivation and expertise. By explaining why you applied for a specific job, you show your potential employer that you truly do know the topic and want to complete the project because you are actually interested in it.

It is often a requirement in job listings. In many cases, attaching a cover letter is optional, but there are some gigs that will require you to attach a cover letter to be able to apply.

It can be a letter you use to reach out to potential clients on your own. A cover letter isn’t necessarily used to apply for job listings. You can also use it to contact people you think might be interested in your services (e.g. small business owners).

#2 Showcase Your Personality

As explained above, a cover letter can help you show your personality. Your resume lists hard facts about your education, experience, expertise, and skills. But what about who you are as a person? That’s something your cover letter can show if you write it with the intention of showcasing your personality.

For instance, if you are a writer who often inserts humor in their content, you can show that in your cover letter by using humor there. On the other hand, if you prefer to be very serious and professional in all your communication with the client, you can show that through your cover letter as well.

#3 Include Relevant Keywords

You’ve probably heard of the way resumes are often assessed. Instead of a person viewing the resume, the document is first analyzed by a program that detects relevant keywords. If there are no such keywords, then the HR manager won’t even bother to look at the resume. While this isn’t the case for cover letters, you should still try to include relevant keywords.

Even as humans, we detect these keywords on a subconscious level. When your potential employer will be reading your cover letter, they will notice these keywords. They will be sending a signal to the reader that you have the right traits, skills, experience, etc. that the employer is looking for.

#4 Show Off Your Skillset

Speaking of your skills, your cover letter can also be used to show off your skillset. Even though you have already listed your skills in your resume, the skills you show in your cover letter are primarily soft skills that can’t be verified in any other way. Hard skills are supported by your experience and education, but soft skills are intangible.

That’s why your cover letter is where you can show off your soft skills. Things like trust, organization, motivation, and flexibility are all important for being a successful freelancer – and employers know this. Your wording also matters because it can help you show that you know how to communicate effectively.

#5 Display Your Own Value

In your resume, you can list some of the achievements you are most proud of. Your portfolio can show your skills. But to truly support the fact that you are a valuable asset to your potential employer, you need to utilize your cover letter. This is where you can display your own value.

Highlight the achievement you are most proud of that you mentioned on your resume. Explain your long-term goals and ambitions for your career. Show that you are motivated and want to grow and improve over time. That’s when the letter’s reader will want to pay for writing , graphic design, or other services you have to offer.

#6 Establish a Personal Connection

Because your resume only lists hard facts, you don’t actually appear as a person to your potential employer. You are just one of the many options they have to choose from. On the other hand, if you are able to establish a personal connection with them, they will be more likely to choose you over other applicants.

This is why many HR managers recommend that you customize your cover letters based on who you are sending them to. Research a little about the person who will likely be reading your letter and use the information you find to establish a connection with them.

#7 Format Your Letter Correctly

Formatting might not be your number one priority, but it’s actually important for your cover letter to be treated seriously. If the reader sees that your letter looks awkward, they might not even bother to read it. Even if they do read it, they will still keep in mind that the letter was not formatted or formatted in a strange way which could signal that you aren’t professional.

To format your cover letter correctly, think about it as a standard email . Begin with a proper greeting and break up the body of the letter into paragraphs. End correctly and add your name, title (e.g. Freelance Writer), and contact information.

#8 Add a Call to Action at the End

Speaking of the way you end your letter, it’s worth adding a call to action at the very end of it. A call to action that urges the reader to get back to you will remind them that you are waiting for their reply. The most common way to end your letter is something along the lines of, “Thank you for your time. I am looking forward to your reply.”

You can also add, “Please, do write back.” If you want to have a more straightforward CTA. Don’t forget to add “Best regards” or “All the best” and your name at the very end. As noted above, you should also add your title and contact information under your name.

#9 Proofread and Edit Your Letter

Once your letter is ready, you will need to proofread it carefully and edit any parts that need to be corrected. It’s a good idea to proofread your letter multiple times with different goals in mind. First, check whether it is coherent and includes all the points you wanted to include. Second, check that there are no linguistic errors such as grammar or punctuation mistakes.

You can even let someone else read your cover letter to double-check that it. A freelancer you know, a friend, or a family member can all help you with this. They could notice mistakes that you didn’t see. Once you are certain that the letter is all right, you can send it with your resume and portfolio to potential employers. If you need to, alter the letter to fit job listings better or maybe even write other versions for different types of jobs you apply to.

To summarize, writing a cover letter is just as important as creating your resume, so don’t underestimate it. Use the tips in this article to help you write your own cover letter and get more clients and gigs with its help.

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• Career Planning
• Finding a Job

Freelance Resume and Cover Letter Examples and Tips

• List Everything You're Good At
• Decide What Type of Job You Want

Develop Your Elevator Speech

Pick a style, be ruthless.

• Skip Unnecessary Space Wasters

Show Your Work

Freelance resume sample.

• Focus on Being a Solution

Format It for the Bored and Busy

Give it a personal touch, let your work speak for you.

• Follow Up, But Don't Stalk

Freelance Cover Letter Example

Creating a resume and cover letter can be tricky, even if you work for an employer and your career is pretty straightforward. For freelancers, it's even more complicated.

Not only do you have to grab the client's attention, pitch your skills, and prove that you're the best person for the job, you also have to make sure that the breadth of your experience makes you look accomplished, not scattershot.

Remember, even if you never have an employee or choose to incorporate, you are a small business owner, not someone who's doing odd jobs.

Review these tips for writing resumes and cover letters that will help you get the gig. There are examples of both and templates you can download to get your own letter and resume started.

Make a List of Everything You're Good At

Before you even start looking at resume templates or thinking about what you want your resume to look like, you need to remind yourself of why you're such an amazing catch for a prospective client. The best way to do that is to start with a simple list, which at a minimum should include:  

• Skills. This includes both hard skills, like software packages and computer systems, and soft skills, like teamwork and management experience.
• Education and training . Go beyond your degrees and formal certificates. Professional training and classes that are relevant to your work count, too.
• Achievements . Win an award? Graduate with honors? Publish a paper or acquire a patent or trademark? Write it down.
• Accomplishments . Include projects you've managed or participated in, from website redesigns to business acquisitions to department restructuring. Don't exaggerate—and certainly don't lie—but if you contributed to the success of a discrete, tangible improvement at a company or as a freelancer, put it on your list.

Here's some good news: once you have your list, you also have your resume keywords . Used by recruiting management software , keywords help your resume make it through the filter and onto a recruiter's or client's desk.

Decide Which Types of Jobs You're Going After

And now here's some bad news: You're probably going to have to make more than one resume, especially as a freelancer. Unless you're only going after one very specific niche job in an industry, you'll need to create targeted resumes to apply to each type of gig.

To make this as easy as possible, think about what types of jobs and clients you plan to focus on, and then match those with your skills list. Pretty quickly, you'll start to see how many and what kind of resumes you'll need to develop. You can probably get by with no more than two or three basic resumes, which you'll then adapt further for specific clients.

If you opt to create personal templates like these, it's a good idea to enlist an eagle-eyed friend to proofread each resume and cover letter before you send them out to prospective clients. Nothing terminates a nascent client-freelancer relationship faster than a cover letter with the wrong company name on it or a resume with totally off-base skills and focus.

Now you know what you're good at, and what you want to do. Distill that into a description that takes a minute or less to deliver—in other words, about the length of time it would take to explain your goals to a stranger in an elevator .

Another way to think about this is as your LinkedIn-headline speech or your Twitter-bio speech—in short, it's the essence of who you are and what you want in a freelance career. Whatever you want to call it, this will be the organizing idea behind your resume. Depending on the format you choose, it might even go at the top of your resume or CV.

There are many ways to organize your resume, but for freelancers, the challenge is to present your skills quickly, so that busy clients can't miss your abilities, without creating a confusing job chronology that distracts from your talents.

There are essentially three main ways to order your resume :

• Chronological , by gig or project . Full-time freelancers who've been working for themselves for a while will want to dispense with the life-story format used by many job seekers who solely work for one employer. The organizing principle here is the order in which you worked on projects.
• Combination , including your full-time employment. Newer freelancers might wish to do a combination resume, which includes both work history and skills.
• By skill set . Also called a functional resume , this style highlights what you can do, not the order in which you acquired your skills or demonstrated them.

Your resume is not an autobiography; at most, it's a profile piece in a glossy magazine. Better yet, it's your most targeted social media profile—organized, precise, and directed unwaveringly at getting you the opportunities you want the most.

This means you need to cut out anything that isn't totally necessary, including unrelated job skills and accomplishments, no matter how impressive, and any projects that don't demonstrate your aptitude for the gig you're after.

Skip These Unnecessary Space Wasters

In fact, there are some traditional resume components that you can almost always skip completely, including:

• Objective. Usually taking up a line or two of space at the top of your resume or CV, this is redundant after your targeted cover letter and costs precious seconds that potential clients could be using to take in your skills and experience. 
• References available upon request. You should definitely have professional references , ready to go—but you don't need to tell people that. They'll assume that you'll be willing to furnish them with contact information for happy clients and previous employers.

In the olden days, graphic artists carried heavy portfolios and journalists toted binders full of yellowing clips, but now you can store your work samples online, via any number of free or paid services, and add your URL directly to your resume, cover letter, or application materials.

This is an example of a resume for a freelance position. Download the freelance resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Freelance Resume Sample (Text Version)

John C. Writer 423 Allen Street, Apt. 2  Pittsburgh, PA 99999 (123) 456-7890 jcwriter@email.com

FREELANCE WRITER AND EDITOR

Creating compelling articles, documents, and social media posts for a variety of clients

Award-winning Freelance Writer, Editor, and Social Media Manager with 10+ years’ experience creating online content that draws plenty of clicks, as well as elegant documents and articles for various clients.

Key skills include:

• Expert in Online Traffic Analysis and Targeted Content Creation
• Fluent in SEO Process
• Have Written About and Edited Content on Men’s Health, Sports, and Parenting.
• Can Create Internal & External Communications

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

MONDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK, Pittsburgh, PA EDITOR AND WRITER (February 2015 – Present) Founding editor of this Bloggie-winning, highly trafficked website that has been cited in Yahoo! Sports, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated, and even The New York Times.

Notable accomplishments:

• Interview major sports figures in the NFL, NBA, and MLB for regular posts and articles.
• Oversee a staff of 10 freelance writers and editors who contribute weekly content.

MENSMAG.COM, New York, NY FREELANCE EDITOR AND WRITER (June 2010 – February 2015) Contributed to sports, health, and parenting sections as a freelance writer and editor.

Notable Accomplishments:

• Created targeted content based on traffic analysis, often producing most-read pieces on the site.
• Edited copy produced by nearly 100 freelance writers through the U.S.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY , Washington, D.C.

Bachelor of Science in English Literature (3.75 GPA; Graduated Magma Cum Laude), May 2010

Certifications and Organizations

Certificate in Social Media Management (CSMM) • American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA)

Other Skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel • Proficient in HTML

Once you have your resume created, you can address the problem writing a cover letter.

Focus Your Cover Letter on Being a Solution

Why do they need you? Because they have a problem they need to solve. Your goal is to show why you're the best person to provide that solution.

This focuses your cover letter right off the bat. No longer are you thinking of your entire work history or even the skills of which you're most proud. You now have a laser focus on the thing that really matters: fixing what's broken, turning the merely good into the truly excellent, and saving the company time and money as you do so.

At its most basic, the freelancer's cover letter looks a lot like everyone else's. You need at least three paragraphs in your letter : an introduction explaining how you found the job or lead, a middle paragraph outlining your skills and abilities, and a closing paragraph indicating how you'll be following up.

Beyond that, focus on making your letter easy to scan. Bullets are your friend, especially when you're listing your relevant skills or projects that demonstrate your talents . Assume that the person reading your cover letter will spend only a few seconds on it, and make sure that he or she can see the highlights in just a quick glance.

Don't forget to include keywords , especially if your materials will have to go through some sort of screening software in order to make it to a real, live person.

At least 60% of all jobs are acquired through networking , and freelancing is no exception. It's always better if you can have a mutual acquaintance pass along your materials, including your cover letter.

If you can't dig up a connection through colleagues, friends, family, or social media, take the time to find an actual name to include in your salutation. Avoid "to whom it may concern" if all possible. Generic addresses let the hiring manager off the hook. Think of how responsive you are to email solicitations from companies that can't even be bothered to figure out your name. (Not very.)

Don't forget to include URLs to online clips, sites, or projects, or references to an attached portfolio of your work, along with an explanation for why these particular work samples are relevant to the company's needs. Don't include everything you've ever done, or anything unrelated to the industry or the company.

Follow Up, But Don't Stalk

Close your cover letter by letting the hiring manager know when you're going to follow up, and then keep your commitment—but don't continue to pursue the contact if things don't pan out.

If you don't hear back after your initial communication, or at the designated time of follow-up, it might be appropriate to try one more time, after two weeks or so , to make sure that you haven't slipped the manager's mind.

After that, though, you have to assume that it's not going to happen with this particular potential client, at least at this time, and move on. If you exercise restraint, you won't close yourself off to future opportunities to work with the company.

This is a sample cover letter example for a freelancer. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Freelancer Cover Letter (Text Version)

John C. Writer 

423 Allen Street, Apt 2 Pittsburgh, PA 15106 412-555-1735 jc@johnwriter.com

March 25, 2021

Leroy Ramirez

Director, Human Resources

Happy Sports Website 

123 Business Rd.

Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Ramirez,

My former editor [contact name] recently told me about the senior writer position at XYZ Website, and I was excited to hear about the opportunity. I've spent the past 10 years developing award-winning, high-traffic content for sites like Mensmag.com and The Monday Morning Quarterback, which I founded and built to a top 10 sports site.

[Contact name] has told me that you're interested in adding a team member who can take XYZ Website to the next level, including incorporating social media, optimizing the site for search, and achieving consistency of tone and coverage. My experience is particularly useful to achieving your goals. I can:

• Analyze traffic and target content creation to build page views.  My content on Mensmag.com is consistently among the top 10 most-read pieces on the site, and creating and building The Monday Morning Quarterback has taught me how use analytics tools to chase down trends worth pursuing and build an audience.
• Help you get that blue verified checkmark.  I expanded the Mensmag Sports Twitter feed from 500 to 50,000 followers, including big names in the industry like Joe Sportsguy and ESPN Commentator. In July of last year, I helped earn the feed verified status.
• Get attention from the people who matter.  Whether it's getting retweets from names in the industry, boosting market share among the 18-34 demographic, or earning Bloggie awards, I have experience making great websites into excellent ones and getting them the attention they deserve. 

I would love the opportunity to talk with you about the position and what I might bring to it. I've attached my resume and clips, and will email later this week to see if we can arrange a time to talk. Thank you for your time and consideration.

John C. Writer 423 Allen Street, Apt 2 Pittsburgh, PA 15106 E-mail: jc@johnwriter.com Phone: 412-555-1735

Freelancer Cover Letter Example

A cover letter functions as an essential element of your resume as it demonstrates your abilities and experiences similar to the role requirements. Your Freelancer Cover Letter should present a successful story of your self-employment.

Our Freelancer Cover Letter Sample details the necessary credentials that most of the clients are looking for.

• Cover Letters

What to Include in a Freelancer Cover Letter?

Roles and responsibilities.

Freelancer Roles and Responsibilities:

Freelancer is a self-employed professional working in different streams/markets for clients. He generally works remotely in a virtual environment and interacts with clients through internet calls, emails, or phone calls. Mostly the Freelancer does hr-related work, sales, and marketing, artwork, web development , etc.

Following are the duties of a Freelancer:

• Self promotes his portfolios on freelancing websites.
• Design work portfolio to showcase it to clients.
• Bid appropriately on the projects.
• Interact with clients to understand their requirements.
• Prepare work samples to get them approved by the clients.
• Work on assignments within the deadlines.

Education & Skills

Freelancer Skills :

• Disciplined and self-driven approach to completing the tasks within the assigned timeline.
• Superior communication skills to understand the requirements of clients.
• Incredible organizational skills to set up the priority of tasks.
• Ability to work with no supervision.
• Out of the box, thinking to grab the available freelancing projects.

Freelancer Educational Requirements:

• Related academic qualifications are needed.
• Proven experience in the freelance field.
• Set of work examples.
• Knowledge and access to required software and equipment to complete the assignment within the deadline.
• Well maintained, a self-promoted freelance profile on freelancing portals.

Freelancer Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Dear Mr./Ms.,

As a highly experienced and reliable Freelancer, I am confident that my skills would qualify for your requirement of a Freelancer. Therefore, I am submitting this letter with all the facets of my project management skills.

Please go through the below highlights of my freelancing background:

• Healthy interaction with prospective clients to understand work specifications.
• Presenting the previous work samples to the clients that are similar in nature.
• Negotiate with clients over the project budget.
• Complete the work assignments in a prescribed format.
• Ensure that the deadline is not breached.
• Edit submitted assignments in case of errors.

I believe that I can surpass your expectations as my strengths lie in self-promotion, business development, project budgeting, and client servicing. I have extensive experience in marketing communications, social media advertising, visual branding, and copywriting for a wide range of clients.

Thank you for reviewing my portfolio and for considering me as a potential Freelancer for your project. I am submitting my resume to offer further detail about my academic records and previous work achievements. I am hoping to have a detailed conversation about what I can bring to the table once hired.

Best Regards, [Your Name]

Quick Tips For Freelancer Cover Letter For Experienced Seekers:

Demonstrate the degree of experience you’ve achieved in the field and the number of projects successfully delivered to the employer to understand your credibility.

Sending a non-targeted resume can ruin your chances of getting selected for a job role. Therefore, seek help from our Freelancer Resume Sample .

Customize Freelancer Cover Letter

Get hired faster with our free cover letter template designed to land you the perfect position.

Related Others Cover Letters

Cover Letter for Freelance Writer: How to Create One + Template

Cover Letter for Freelance Writer Customizable Template.

Have you ever wondered how to create a cover letter that gets you that awesome freelance writing job but aren’t sure where to start? While it may seem that creating a cover letter for a freelance writer that showcases your skills is difficult, it’s actually easier than you think!

A cover letter is designed to interest an employer enough that they want to read your resume. And since sometimes hundreds of people apply for online freelance writing jobs, standing out in a sea of applicants can be the one thing that gets you the job. 

So, it’s important to be unique but professional and illustrate with words why you’re the talented writer for them!

Most freelance writers advise you to cold email businesses in your niche to get freelance writing jobs, and that’s the long-term strategy I teach too. BUT, in the beginning, I started with job boards WHILE I did cold pitching, so I submitted a ton of cover letters and resumes.

I’m going to show you a format that you can use for every cover letter so you can just plug in the information for each section.  Then, when you’re finished, you’ll have a cover letter that shows why you’re the best person for the job. 

What is a Cover Letter?

A professional cover letter is a document that you submit with your resume when applying for a job. It should be one page, introduce you, and summarize your employment history while adding wording that matches the things the employer asked for in the ad. 

Essentially, a cover letter is an abbreviated story about your past work experience and the relevant skills that make you right for the job. 

Here you can inject a little of your personality and connect with the person behind the business. 

But each cover letter needs to be unique and tailored to the position you’re applying to. And while there are many cover letter generators and builders, it’s easy to create your own template.

So, if you stick around, I have a free cover letter template for you in just a little bit because being able to write your own cover letter is a good skill to have.

What are the Different Types of Cover Letters?

You may not know it (I didn’t initially), but technically, there are different types of cover letters that you use in various cases. 

Traditional Cover Letter for Job Applications

This cover letter is the one you include with your freelance writer resume when you apply for a job. It’s the one I’m talking about in this blog post.

It’s also known as an email cover letter since many people apply for jobs online today.  

Letter of Interest

A letter of interest or prospecting letter usually is an inquiry into job openings at a specific company. 

Referral Cover Letter

This letter is one when you use the name of a person who referred you to a particular job with a company. These letters are very helpful, especially if the company you’re applying to knows the person referring you.

A cold pitch can be considered a cover letter, too, because it’s a letter you send to a company that doesn’t have any job advertisements. You’re essentially introducing yourself and showing how you can help. 

These are just a few examples of cover letters and now we’re on to the good stuff – Tips for writing a cover letter that gets you the job.

Related: 6 Top Tips for Creating Your Freelance Writing Business Plan + Template

Tips for Writing the Best Cover Letter

Here are some helpful tips on writing a cover letter for a freelance writer, and don’t worry, you don’t need superior writing abilities to create a great one. 

1. Make It Simple and Easy to Read

Keep your freelance writer cover letter simple, brief, and easy to read. The more concise it is, the more likely the employer will actually read it. 

Choose a font that’s perfect for a cover letter and easy to read, such as Lato, Calibri, Georgia, Arial, and other ones that are not too small or fancy. This is not the time to choose an elaborate font that you think is pretty.

Also, don’t make the font smaller than 12 pt and keep the margin to around one inch all around. This format makes it easier for the person looking through hundreds of cover letters to skim yours quickly.

2. Make Each Cover Letter Unique

I know I mentioned this already, but it’s essential. Each job and each business is different. If you want an effective cover letter that connects, don’t send the same one word-for-word to every job you apply for. In fact, doing this may prompt the company to trash yours. 

A unique cover letter demonstrates that you took the time to learn a little about the company and paid attention to the job description . Each business has different goals and different problems. Therefore, customizing your cover letter may get you noticed.

A good number of words to aim for is 300 to 500 or a little more. If your cover letter goes onto a second page, then edit brutally, only keeping the things you need. 

If it’s way under a full page, think of how you relate to the company, what experience this employer would find beneficial, and past jobs that relate. 

3. Keep It on One Page

I talked about this earlier, but it’s another important feature of a successful freelance writing cover letter. The best cover letters that convert well only have a few paragraphs on one page.

If you’re finding it hard to add anything, this may be the time to look for a more entry freelance writing job to build your freelance writing portfolio.

4. Make Your Intro More Interesting

The most common way to start a cover letter for freelance writer jobs is, “I’m writing to apply for (Name of Position).

While it’s simple and straight to the point, it falls flat. I’ve actually used, “I’m excited to apply for the Senior Freelance Writing position at ABC Company.” Then you can go on to connect with them, like explaining that you read one of their articles and point something out to relate to.

Or maybe they won an award recently, and you can compliment them on it. You could also feel strongly about the company’s mission. 

Calling out something related to the company shows that you took the time to check them out, and you may be a good fit for their business. 

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Freelance Writing for Beginners

5. Don’t Repeat What Your Resume Says – Expand On It

Your resume should also be short (not more than two pages), so you can expand on it in your cover letter but make sure you don’t repeat yourself. This is the time to explain how your experience is relevant to the business and job you’re applying for. 

Explain and further detail a related accomplishment or explain how your experience can solve their problems.

6. Use Statistics and Numbers

The cover letter is the place to show evidence of how you’ve helped your former clients. For example, if you have statistics that show your content helped them increase their email list 25 percent, or you helped increase their sales fifteen percent. 

You won’t have statistics often, but you can even talk about the comments on your content or how many times it was shared.

7. Try to Find the Name of a Contact Person

If you can, try to find a point of contact and address your cover letter to them. Sometimes this isn’t easy to do, but places like LinkedIn let you search for specific positions.

You can look on the company website or even call them to find out the information you need. They’ll recognize the time you spent addressing them specifically. 

8. Don’t Point Out the Skills or Experience You’re Lacking

It’s tempting for many people to point out what they’re missing and apologize. Unfortunately, one of the worst things you can do is mention what skills or degrees you don’t have. Instead, highlight the skills and experience you have and why that makes you an excellent fit for the role.

Now, if you have gaps in your employment history, such as you took time off to raise your kids or were laid off, this is the time to explain that gap. First, be brief and then get back to discussing your experience and skills.

9. Be Yourself and Show Your Personality

While you need to be professional in your cover letter for freelance writer jobs, you don’t need to be overly stuffy. Also, don’t use cliches like “team player,” “go-getter,” “to whom it may concern,” “I’m the perfect fit,” I have excellent verbal and written communication skills,” or other similar phrases. 

You don’t want to come across as fake, so showing a bit of your personality is not only okay, it’s good.

10. Use a Cover Letter Template

Before you write your cover letter for freelance writer jobs, look at examples and templates to see how to structure yours. And a cover letter template lets you write and customize your cover letters quickly.

Like I mentioned earlier, you can use my template and example to help you set up your own cover letters easily. 

Now let’s learn how to write a cover letter step by step.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Writing Position Step-by-Step

Sign up for my sample freelance writer cover letter example and template at the end of this article or up above so that you can go through this process step-by-step. 

Your Contact Information

You’ll see at the top of my template there’s room for your information. Your name goes up at the top, and you add your address, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile, plus a link to your portfolio.

I also have a portfolio at ClearVoice, so if you have any other places for your portfolio or hire me page, you could add those to this section. You could add your Skype name too as many people do interviews by Skype.

Just don’t make it too cluttered and link to too many things. Instead, add the most critical information and the links you think are relevant to the job. 

Employer Information

In this area, you want to put the date and then address the HR Manager, Marketing Director, or Vice President – whoever hires the writers for that company. I’ve seen various titles in that role and even talked to the CEOs of small companies who needed a writer.

*Note If this section seems too formal, you can get rid of it.. I wrote a lot of email cover letters, and this would seem awkward in many of those. It depends on the position.

Introduction

Here you introduce yourself and your freelance writing niche. Then, explain why you’re the best person for the job. 

Bring in areas of your life, whether personal or professional, to illustrate why they should choose you. For example, since I wrote blog articles for businesses in the security industry in my first niche, I referred to my 20 years of experience as a police officer.

It helped people see that I had the knowledge and background they needed. 

Also, mention how you can solve their problem with your writing.

Make a Personal Connection

I can go one of two ways next, depending on how you set up the introduction. Sometimes, like when I’m cold pitching , I start by connecting with whoever is reading my cover letter here.

Personal connections really help show that you took the time to do your research on the company and that you relate to them. 

Maybe you connect to their mission or values, or perhaps it’s your dream company, and you remember reading their blog, or you took one of their tips and used it successfully.

Telling a story that connects you to them in your cover letter for freelance writers is powerful. 

If the next logical step in your letter is more about your expertise or qualifications, you can start with those. Then lead into a connection in one of the next to last paragraphs. 

Qualifications and Expertise

For example, I used my 20 years of experience in law enforcement as evidence that I had the knowledge and background necessary to write blog articles for security companies.

I didn’t have a hefty writing resume when I started. But I had a Master’s degree in Intelligence Studies, a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice, and all those years working in law enforcement.

Companies were willing to give me a chance because finding a good writer in that niche is hard. I don’t know many other writers in that niche.

Maybe your previous job as an administrative assistant for a chiropractor will help you write case studies or blog articles for chiropractors and other holistic practitioners. 

There are other ways you can get the freelance writing experienc e you can use on resumes and in your cover letters, like guest posting or contacting a company and offering to write a free article for them.

Normally, I wouldn’t say work for free, but it’s worth it if you can get a portfolio sample and experience. 

This section is also the place to bring up your hard and soft skills  that are assets for the position. 

How to Create a Freelance Writer Cover Letter Template

Creating a template you can use for each job application is simple. I’ve already made one for you! My template makes it easy for you to write your own freelancer cover letter . It’s also the perfect freelancer cover letter example , so you have an idea of how to create your own.

You can use it in Google Docs, or if you’re old school like me, download it into Microsoft Office by selecting FILE in the top menu to the left and scrolling down to download.

You can also create your own template in Microsoft Office. They have a lot of great letter templates. There’s a business letter template in Google Docs that works as a cover letter template too. You can sign up for the template below.

Can you pay someone to write your cover letter?

Yes, you can totally pay someone to write a cover letter for freelance writer jobs for you. But it can get expensive if you apply to a lot of work-from-home jobs as I did initially.

There are also cover letter builders that help you format one, but they don’t write it for you. You can also find other cover letter examples. You may find a different cover letter format works for you too.

Now that you have this handy template, you can do it yourself in under 15 minutes for FREE.

When should I write a cover letter?

Cover letters are common documents potential employers request during the hiring process. Some jobs require a cover letter, and you’ll usually see that in the job advertisement. The hiring manager, employer, or someone else in charge of hiring may request one.

It is also a good idea to write a freelance cover letter if someone referred you to the position you’re applying for or if you’re submitting an application directly to a person and know their name. 

Resume vs. cover letter, what’s the difference?

A resume lists your experience and skills and is purely factual and concise, while a cover letter goes into more detail about your experience and qualifications. 

It’s your chance to tell the employer that you’re the right person for the position. 

Both the freelance writer resume and cover letter are short. The letter should only be one page, while the resume shouldn’t go past two.

Related: 13 Simple Content Writing Tips for Beginners: How to Look Like a Pro When You’re Not

Final Thoughts on a Cover Letter for Freelance Writer

A freelance writer cover letter is an essential part of your resume. Though it’s a separate document, it either interests the employer enough to look at your resume or compels them to toss it in the trash.

Clearly, you want them to consider you further and look at your resume. So, since it’s like a good headline and can make or break you, writing a good cover letter is an important skill.

But you have my cover letter for freelancers to help you create an awesome letter employers actually want to read.

I hope you find some amazing writing gigs, whether that’s business writing or other writing projects. Remember, you don’t need a background to start a freelance writing career.

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Always include a cover letter for a freelance writer with your resume when you apply for writing jobs.

About The Author

Heather Ritchie

4 thoughts on “cover letter for freelance writer: how to create one + template”.

Thanks for this useful article, I am quite bad at writing cover letters and always struggle with them! Readability and keeping it simple are such important points though, even with all other forms of writing! Thanks once again!

Even writers hate writing cover letters but it’s so important! Glad it was useful, thanks for reading Sheryl!

A very helpful post as I am starting to reach out to brands more so sending ‘cold letters’ to them. Great points, and I will be adding my statistics to them now!

I’m glad you loved the tips, Claire. I hate cold emailing people still but it’s so important and it does get easier over time. Thanks for reading!

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How to write a freelance writer cover letter

A cover letter offers potential employers all they want to learn about you. It suggests competence, work ethics, and even passion. A strong cover letter can significantly impact a freelance writer's ability to land a job. This guide discusses suggestions for writing a strong and killer freelance writer cover letter.

Purpose of a freelance writer cover letter

A cover letter adds a significant amount of character to the recruitment procedure. Freelance writing assignments may feel anonymous, especially when hiring from markets like Upwork. 

A cover letter performs a few more tasks and provides some extra information, especially for independent writers;

• Display your writing prowess. A strong cover letter stands alone as a piece of writing.
• Generate interest. As a freelancer, draw the audience in with your language skills and storytelling abilities.
• Promote discussion. To attract a hiring manager to contact you, provide a lot of details in your cover letter while leaving a little bit unexplained. Prepare your cover letter to make a recruiter who would like to read more about your writing, expertise, and your resume to determine whether or not you may be a suitable freelance writer for them.

Components of a cover letter

As a freelance writer, your cover letter should only have one purpose; to advance you to the next stage, which could be an interview, a resume assessment, or getting hired as a freelance writer. In light of this, the best cover letters will include the essential components;

Address the employer

You should address the recruiter who is considering applications. While often HR will move in to support, in the majority of businesses it will be the head of the department for freelance writers that generally implies advertising or editorial. When you've established who the individual is, look at their LinkedIn profile to learn more about how they communicate and connect with others. If you can't locate the hiring manager's name, look through the organization's information to obtain knowledge about style and subject. Additionally, thoroughly review the job description before structuring your cover letter if you're searching for a freelance writing position, where you can get information about the organization when you receive a callback from the hiring manager.

Brief and to the point

In your cover letter, be straightforward. Avoid using the passive voice, when talking about your achievements, and keep the cover letter to the point. Keep in mind that a cover letter shouldn't be an autobiography, rather, it should progress you to the next stage. After writing your cover letter, you should review it for any sections where you were monotonous or included too many instances. It is crucial if you're a freelance writer because your cover letter needs to show that you're a skilled writer.

Proper tone

Explore the organization's media kit as often as possible to comprehend its mission and the language to represent itself. Utilize this data as an editorial indication to mirror their style in your cover letter while being true to your own particular style. If a media kit is not available, read executive interviews or the corporations about page. Consider drafting your cover letter like an interview for a position as a freelance writer. You are browsing the company's webpage rather than addressing questions. Although your cover letter is the initial document a prospective client will see, this advice is valuable for freelance writers. You will appear out of sync if you prepare a highly organized, ultra-professional cover letter for a business that prides itself on its informal approach.

Keyword modification

Develop your original cover letter document avoiding any keywords, then include them when you go through the editing process. Start by looking for clear places where you may replace the word. Next, seek out context shifts where you may realign an example to more effectively convey what they are seeking, for instance, switching up a customer story to demonstrate your time management skills versus your writing skills. After that, search for any chances to include a keyword.

Other resources on freelance writer, how to become a freelance writer , how to write a freelance writer resume, freelance writer resume sample , freelance writer skills for resume and cover letter .

Things to include in a freelance writer cover letter

The following are the essential aspects to incorporate into your cover letter;

Introduction

Begin your cover letter with a precise opening and declaration of purpose and what position you are seeking. If you know the name of the employer, you must include the name in the cover letter.

Insightful situations

Consider your cover letter to showcase the client's qualities that aren't instantly evident from a writing sample, such as time management and project management. Adapt these instances to the questions or points made in the job description.

Describe how your background makes you the ideal candidate to work as a freelance writer for this business. You can use specific wording from the job requirements and application to demonstrate how well you match the requirements.

Connect to a portfolio

Though your cover letter can serve as a representation of your work, you must also provide a reference to your online portfolio of freelance writing. Just ensure there are only applicable examples and not a lengthy website with several connections. It's a fantastic opportunity to exhibit your writing abilities, in terms of articles and other types of writing you have completed.

Awards or accomplishments

Often the position will need for proven understanding of a particular writing style or subject-matter competence. You could add any accomplishments or accolades that indicate your expertise in your cover letter in addition to work samples. If you've achieved something in a field but do not have a particular writing example for it, maybe really valuable as you can talk about it during an interview. 

Extra requirements from the job listing

Each profession will have diverse requirements, so be careful to cover everything. Some questions are relevant to your profession, like those about your accreditation, and some are tests of your focus and concentration, like reviewing the job posting.

Give reference to your resume 

Ensure to mention your résumé, but avoid giving out too much information. However, entice potential employers with information from your resume in your cover letter to persuade them to review it. Note: Your resume must usually be customized for every job role.

Contact details

Your email address can be included under your name after the letter even though you'll probably already have it listed within the application.

Freelance Writer Tried and tested resume example for your next job in 2024. Get a jump-start, by editing this Freelance Writer resume example. Just update this example with your details, download and launch your career to new heights today!

Freelance Writer Cover Letter Example

Dear Employer,

After reading your advertisement for a freelance writer, I am submitting my job application. I am convinced that I'll significantly exceed your requirements as a detail-oriented, seasoned writer with more than eight years of experience creating unique material for a range of outlets.

A dedication to grammar perfection, the natural capability to recognize and seek out engaging stories and material, and strict compliance with all schedules and specific publication standards are necessary for performance in the freelance writing business. In the past, I've written both brief and lengthy articles on many topics, including media, culture, arts, and business. I am prepared to continue my successful publishing career with ABC Magazine thanks to my dedication to building enduring friendships that will foster new connections and inspire post ideas.

Here are the features of my experience and skills;

• Published about 270 newspaper articles and 53 magazine articles in a variety of well-known journals, and questioned members of the public and companies for high-impact reading material.
• Developed thorough, new information for publications and received instruction from industry experts in a broad range of software packages like Photoshop and HTML to support development into new media.
• Established dependable relationships with colleagues, editorial staff, and community groups to facilitate future collaborations and generate article and contact prospects.
• Utilizing excellent editorial abilities to produce excellent material at the time of submission, allowing a quick turnaround from writing to publishing.
• Obtained a graduate certification in writing and an MFA from the University of Minnesota with a focus on creative writing.

My experience creating original material and dedication to discovering and developing unique stories can be beneficial to your organization.  

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Natasha Robinson

How do I write a freelance cover letter

Writing an impressive freelance cover letter is crucial for securing your next job. Here's a breakdown to help you create one that stands out;

Customize for Each Job

• Avoid using a generic template.
• Carefully read the project description and align your skills and experience with the client's requirements.

Structure Your Letter

Attention-grabbing introduction

• Initiate with a powerful opening that highlights your relevant skills and experiences.
• Reference a specific accomplishment related to the project.

Highlight your strengths

• Elaborate on your skills and experiences, incorporating keywords from the job description.
• Provide examples of your achievements with measurable results.

Enthusiasm and Availability: Express enthusiasm for the project and state your immediate availability.

Call to action

• Thank the client for their consideration.
• End with a clear call to action, encouraging further discussion or directing them to your portfolio.

  Tips

• Keep it concise: Aim for a one-page letter.
• Proofread: Eliminate typos and grammatical errors.
• Maintain a professional tone throughout.
• Use a formal greeting, addressing the cover letter to a specific person rather than using "To Whom It May Concern."

How do I write about myself as a freelance writer

When you're writing about yourself as a freelance writer, it's essential to show off your unique skills, experiences, and interests in a proper manner. Here is an overview on how to accomplish it;

• Start with a short introduction that grabs attention.
• Say your name and talk about what you're good at as a freelance writer.
• Tell people that you really love writing and you're committed to making great content.

Skills and Specializations

• Write about the things you're good at in writing, like telling stories, doing research, editing, and checking for mistakes.
• Say what areas you know a lot about, like writing for blogs, advertising, technical stuff, or news.
• Give examples or stories that show you're good at these things.
• Talk about the jobs you've done before that show how good you are at writing.
• Say who you've worked for and what you've written for them.
• Mention any special awards or good things people have said about your writing.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

• Explain what makes you different from other writers.
• Talk about the special skills or ideas you have that make clients want to hire you.
• Say how good you are at understanding what clients need, getting work done on time, and writing in different styles.

Passion and Commitment

• Tell people how much you love writing and how hard you work to make clients happy.
• Share what makes you excited about writing and how you're always trying to get better.
• Show that you're serious about doing a good job and making clients happy.

Call to Action

• Finish by asking people to get in touch with you if they need writing help.
• Give them your contact details or links to your work.
• Encourage them to send you a message to talk about working together.

What is an example of a freelancer application letter

Dear [Client Name],

I'm reaching out to express my enthusiasm for the freelance content writing opportunity you've posted on [Platform (e.g., Upwork, Freelancer)]. With [Number] years of experience in content writing, I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise to your project.

During my tenure at [Previous Company], I achieved notable success by [Specific accomplishment related to the project]. For example, I [Quantifiable achievement with results]. My skill set encompasses [List relevant skills (e.g., SEO optimization, content strategy, specific content types like blog posts or website copy)], which have been honed through my professional journey.

What draws me particularly to this project is [Mention something specific about the project that excites you]. My passion for [Your area of content expertise] drives me, and my proficiency in [Highlight relevant skills] assures me that I can deliver outstanding content tailored to your needs.

In addition to my writing prowess, I bring strong organizational skills, effective communication, and adept time management abilities to the table. I thrive in independent work environments and excel at meeting deadlines. I am eager to delve deeper into your project requirements and explore how my skills and experience can enrich your team.

Attached is my portfolio, showcasing a selection of my writing samples. My hourly rate stands at [Your hourly rate], and I am ready to commence work immediately.

I eagerly await the opportunity to discuss further and collaborate with you.

[Your Name]

What kind of cover letter do I need for Upwork

Upwork cover letters differ slightly from traditional ones. Here's what you should keep in mind;

• Keep it brief: Given the volume of proposals clients receive on Upwork, brevity is crucial. Aim for 250-300 words to make a concise and impactful impression.
• Address the client's needs: Tailor your cover letter to directly speak to the requirements outlined in the job description. This shows your attentiveness to their needs.
• Showcase relevant skills and experience: Utilize keywords from the job description and highlight your expertise with measurable outcomes to demonstrate your suitability for the role.
• Follow instructions: Many Upwork job postings include specific instructions for proposals, such as whether a cover letter is necessary and if there's a word limit. Ensure you follow these guidelines precisely.
• Include a call to action: Conclude your cover letter with a clear call to action, inviting the client to further discuss the project or view your portfolio, which can be conveniently linked within Upwork.

What specific details should be included in the introduction to grab the client's attention in the freelance writer cover letter

A compelling introduction is vital in a freelance writer cover letter to capture the client's interest. Here are specific elements you can include to make a strong initial impression;

• Highlight a measurable accomplishment relevant to the project: Start by showcasing your value with a specific achievement directly tied to the client's needs. Utilize figures and outcomes to illustrate your effectiveness. For instance, "In my previous position, I enhanced website traffic by 20% through strategic content creation."
• Demonstrate knowledge of their industry or niche: Display your research by referencing a particular aspect of their industry or niche. This indicates your comprehension of their target audience and challenges.
• Engage with an intriguing fact or statistic: Capture the reader's attention by presenting a compelling and relevant fact or statistic related to the project's objectives.
• Showcase a unique perspective or approach: Briefly emphasize what distinguishes you from other writers. Do you possess a specialized area of expertise or a distinct writing style?

Here are examples that incorporate these techniques;

• Quantifiable achievement: "Through engaging blog posts optimized for SEO, I boosted website traffic by 20% for a SaaS company." (suitable for content writing roles)
• Industry knowledge: "Drawing from my lifelong passion for athletics, I excel in crafting fitness content that resonates with readers, understanding the unique challenges faced by fitness brands today." (ideal for a fitness brand)
• Intriguing fact: "Did you know that 80% of online readers skim content? My expertise lies in crafting scannable content that captivates attention and yields results." (suited for web copywriting positions)
• Unique perspective: "Leveraging my background in psychology, I specialize in crafting marketing copy that taps into human emotions, driving conversions effectively." (appropriate for marketing copywriting roles)

How can I tailor a freelance writer cover letter to address the client's needs and requirements outlined in the job description

To tailor your freelance writer cover letter effectively to address the client's needs and requirements outlined in the job description, follow these steps;

Read the Job Description

• Start by thoroughly reading the job description provided by the client.
• Pay close attention to the specific skills, experiences, and qualities they're seeking in a freelance writer.

Identify Key Requirements and Preferences

• Make a list of the essential skills, experiences, and qualifications mentioned in the job description.
• Take note of any preferences or additional qualities the client is looking for in an ideal candidate.

Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences

• Match your skills and experiences to the requirements outlined in the job description.
• Emphasize your relevant writing skills, such as SEO optimization, content strategy, or proficiency in specific content types.
• Provide examples or anecdotes from your previous work that demonstrate your ability to meet the client's needs.

Customize Your Introduction and Body Paragraphs

• Tailor your introduction to address the specific project and client.
• Mention any relevant experiences or achievements that align with the client's requirements.
• Use language from the job description to demonstrate your understanding of the client's needs and your ability to fulfill them.

Address Any Specific Requests or Instructions

• If the job description includes specific instructions for cover letters, such as word count or format, be sure to follow them closely.
• Address any questions or prompts provided by the client within your cover letter.

Showcase Your Enthusiasm and Commitment

• Express your genuine interest in the project and your enthusiasm for working with the client.
• Highlight how your skills and experiences make you well-suited to meet the client's needs and exceed their expectations.

End with a Call to Action

• Conclude your cover letter with a clear call to action, inviting the client to further discuss the project or review your portfolio.
• Encourage the client to take the next steps in the hiring process, such as scheduling an interview or providing additional information.

What strategies can I employ to highlight relevant skills and experiences in a freelance writer cover letter

Here are some strategies you can employ to highlight relevant skills and experiences in a freelance writer cover letter;

Keyword Matching and Specificity

• Examine the job description: Identify key terms and phrases describing the project's requirements (e.g., content type, audience, industry).
• Incorporate relevant keywords: Integrate them naturally into your cover letter to demonstrate comprehension.
• Emphasize specific skills pertinent to the project: Avoid generic mentions and instead focus on skills directly applicable to the task (e.g., SEO optimization for content writing, and social media expertise for blog posts).

Quantify your Contributions

• Move beyond generic labels like "experienced writer": Highlight the tangible impact of your writing using quantifiable metrics.
• Utilize metrics from past projects: Showcase accomplishments such as increased website traffic, lead generation, or conversion rates.
• Emphasize results over tasks: Rather than merely stating tasks performed, emphasize how your writing contributed to specific outcomes like enhanced brand awareness or engagement.

Craft Compelling Stories

• Transform achievements into engaging narratives: Present your successes as concise stories that demonstrate your skills in action.
• Highlight instances of overcoming challenges: Briefly recount a previous project challenge and illustrate how your skills enabled you to surmount it.
• Focus on client benefits: Frame your stories around how your skills provided value to past clients and benefited their objectives.

Showcase understanding of their needs

• Address identified pain points: Acknowledge any challenges mentioned in the job description and illustrate your capability to tackle them with your skills.
• Demonstrate industry knowledge (where relevant): Exhibit your familiarity with their industry or niche and briefly outline your understanding of their target audience.
• Provide insight into your process: Offer a glimpse into your research methodology or how you tailor content to suit specific audience demographics.

How do I incorporate quantifiable results or achievements in the freelance writer cover letter

Incorporating quantifiable results or achievements into your freelance writer cover letter can greatly enhance your credibility and showcase the tangible impact of your work. Here's how you can do it effectively;

Identify Measurable Metrics

• Instead of using generic statements, such as "I'm a great writer," focus on specific, measurable outcomes.
• Look for metrics relevant to the project's goals, such as website traffic, leads generated, conversions, or social media engagement.

Highlight Specific Projects

• Rather than simply listing your skills, connect them to particular projects where you achieved quantifiable results.
• Provide context by briefly describing the project type, target audience, and the writing task you completed.

Emphasize Results with Numbers

• Quantify the impact of your writing using numbers and data to demonstrate the positive outcomes.
• Focus on percentages and increases to show the extent of your contribution. For example, "Boosted website traffic by 25%" or "Achieved twice the number of leads with focused blog posts."
• Be specific by mentioning the actual number of website visitors, leads generated, or social media shares achieved.

Frame Results as Benefits

• Go beyond simply listing numbers by explaining how your results benefited the client.
• Connect your achievements directly to the client's goals or objectives. For instance, mention how your writing contributed to increasing brand awareness, improving sales, or driving conversions.

What are the best practices for following any instructions provided by the client regarding the cover letter format or word limit

Following instructions provided by the client regarding the cover letter format or word limit is important to show that you pay attention to details and can follow directions. Here are some best practices;

• Read carefully: Make sure to read the instructions given by the client carefully before writing your cover letter.
• Stick to the format: If the client asks for a specific format, like a certain style of writing or layout, make sure your cover letter follows it.
• Watch the word count: If there's a word limit mentioned, don't exceed it. Your cover letter should be concise and straightforward.
• Be clear and concise: Write your cover letter in clear and simple language. Avoid using complicated words or long sentences.
• Double-check: Before sending your cover letter, double-check to ensure you've followed all the instructions correctly.

How can I express my enthusiasm for the project and convey my commitment to delivering high-quality work

Here are some strategies to express your enthusiasm for the project and commitment to high-quality work in your freelance writer cover letter;

Highlight Your Passion & Knowledge

• Talk about what makes you excited about the project: Share briefly what catches your interest about the project or the client's company or area of focus.
• Show you know about their industry: Give a quick glimpse of your understanding of who they're trying to reach or what's happening in their field.
• Example: "I have a strong passion for promoting environmentally friendly practices, which is why I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute content for your sustainable clothing brand."

Emphasize Your Commitment to Quality

• Stress your commitment to doing great work: Talk about how you're focused on giving them top-notch results.
• Mention how you do your research: Quickly say how you make sure your work is accurate and fits their needs.
• Offer to make changes if needed (if it makes sense for what you do): Say you're willing to make edits to make sure they're happy.
• Example: "I'm dedicated to making sure the content I create not only meets your needs but also stands out. I do thorough research to make sure it's accurate and engaging, and I'm always open to making changes to make sure it's just right."

Use Strong Action Verbs

• Use action words to show you're ready to get things done: Instead of just saying you "wrote" something, use words like "developed" or "crafted."
• Action words show you're excited and ready to work hard: They show you're eager to jump into the project.
• Example: "I can't wait to work together to create content that makes an impact."

Express Eagerness 

• Finish with a strong invitation to talk more: Ask them to get in touch if they want to know more or have questions.
• Show you're ready to talk about it more: Let them know you're available for an interview or to chat further.
• Example: "I'm excited about the possibility of working together. Let's talk soon about how we can make this project a success!"

What should I include in the call to action to encourage the client to take the next steps like discussing the project further or reviewing my portfolio

To encourage the client to take the next steps, such as discussing the project further or reviewing your portfolio, your call to action should be clear, inviting, and proactive. Here's what you should include;

Express Enthusiasm: Start by expressing your excitement about the potential collaboration and your eagerness to move forward.

Specify Next Steps

• State what action you want the client to take next, whether it's scheduling a call to discuss the project in more detail or reviewing your portfolio.
• Use action-oriented language to prompt the client to act, such as "Let's schedule a call" or "I invite you to review my portfolio."

Provide Contact Information: Include your preferred method of contact, such as your email address or phone number, making it easy for the client to reach out to you.

Offer Assistance: Reiterate your availability and willingness to answer any questions or provide additional information the client may need.

Express Gratitude: End your call to action with a thank you for considering your application and for their time.

How do I ensure that my cover letter maintains a professional tone throughout

Here are a few ways to ensure that the freelance writer cover letter maintain a formal tone;

• Formal Language: Use formal language and avoid informal expressions or slang.
• Grammar & Mechanics: Check the cover letter for typos, grammar errors, and punctuation mistakes to show attention to detail.
• Positive and Confident Tone: Maintain a positive and confident tone, emphasizing your strengths and value without negativity.
• Respectful Address: Address the client respectfully, using appropriate titles if known.
• Value-Focused Content: Frame your skills and experiences in terms of the benefits they offer to the client rather than just listing accomplishments.
• Clarity and Conciseness: Communicate clearly and concisely, avoiding overly complex sentences or jargon for easy readability.
• Proofread: Consider having a trusted friend or colleague review your cover letter for professionalism before submission.
• Avoid informal greetings like "Hey" or "What's up?"
• Use a formal sign-off such as "Sincerely" or "Regards."
• Let the quality of your writing itself demonstrate your professionalism and strong communication skills.

What unique aspects of my writing skills or approach can I emphasize to set myself apart from other applicants

To set yourself apart from other applicants as a freelance writer, emphasize unique aspects of your writing skills or approach that showcase your strengths and suitability for the project. Here are some potential areas you could highlight;

• Specialized Knowledge or Expertise: Highlight any specific industries, niches, or topics where you have in-depth knowledge or expertise. This demonstrates your understanding of the subject matter and audience needs.
• Unique Writing Style or Voice: Showcase your distinct writing style or voice that sets you apart from others. Whether it's a conversational tone, humor, or a poetic flair, emphasize what makes your writing stand out.
• Data-Driven Approach: If you excel at using data and analytics to inform your content strategy, emphasize this strength. Discuss how you integrate data insights to create targeted and effective content.
• Exceptional Research Skills: Emphasize your ability to conduct thorough research and fact-checking to ensure accuracy and credibility in your writing. Highlight any past projects where your research skills were instrumental.
• Multilingual Proficiency: If you're fluent in multiple languages, emphasize this valuable skill, especially if the project requires content localization or targeting diverse audiences.
• Versatility in Writing Styles: Showcase your versatility by highlighting your ability to adapt your writing style to different formats or purposes. Whether it's technical writing, creative storytelling, or persuasive copywriting, demonstrate your range.
• Track Record of Success: Provide examples of past projects or achievements where your writing contributed to tangible outcomes such as increased engagement, improved SEO rankings, or higher conversion rates.

Are there any specific tips or strategies for writing a cover letter on freelance platforms like Upwork or Freelancer

Writing a cover letter on freelance platforms like Upwork or Freelancer requires some specific strategies to stand out among numerous applicants. Here are some tips;

Personalize Each Cover Letter

• Avoid using generic templates. Tailor your cover letter to each job posting by referencing specific details mentioned in the job description.
• Address the client by name and mention the project or company name to demonstrate your attention to detail.

Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience

• Focus on skills and experiences directly related to the project requirements outlined in the job posting.
• Add keywords from the job specifications to demonstrate your compatibility with the position.
• Provide examples or case studies that demonstrate your past successes in similar projects.

Be Concise and Direct

• Ensure your cover letter is concise and focused. Many clients receive numerous applications, so it's essential to capture their attention quickly.
• Aim for a one-page cover letter and avoid unnecessary fluff or repetition.

Showcase Your Personality and Passion

• While maintaining professionalism, inject some personality into your cover letter to make it memorable.
• Express genuine enthusiasm for the project and demonstrate your passion for your work.

Include Relevant Portfolio Samples or Links

• Provide links to your portfolio, website, or relevant samples of your work.
• Choose samples that align with the client's needs and showcase your expertise in the desired areas.

Follow Platform Guidelines

• Pay attention to any specific instructions or guidelines provided by the freelance platform or the client.
• Some platforms may have word count limits or formatting requirements for cover letters, so be sure to adhere to them.

End with a Clear Call to Action

• Close your cover letter with a clear call to action, inviting the client to take the next steps, such as scheduling an interview or reviewing your profile.
• Provide contact information and encourage the client to reach out to you for further discussion.

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Professional Freelance Writer Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your freelance writer cover letter must immediately highlight your writing prowess. Let your command of language engage the reader from the very first line. Demonstrate your ability to understand and meet the client's needs within your cover letter. Provide a glimpse of your unique voice and versatility as a freelance writer.

Cover Letter Guide

Freelance Writer Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Freelance Writer Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Embarking on your freelance journey, you’ve begun applying for jobs and suddenly hit a common snag: crafting the perfect cover letter. Unlike a resume, your cover letter is your chance to showcase a pinnacle professional moment, telling the compelling story behind your proudest achievement. To stand out, it needs to be formal without being laden with clichés, and concise enough to make an impact in just one page. Let's navigate through creating a cover letter that opens doors.

• Personalize the greeting to address the recruiter and your introduction that fits the role;
• Follow good examples for individual roles and industries from job-winning cover letters;
• Decide on your most noteworthy achievement to stand out;
• Format, download, and submit your freelance writer cover letter, following the best HR practices.

Use the power of Enhancv's AI: drag and drop your freelance writer resume, which will swiftly be converted into your job-winning cover letter.

If the freelance writer isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Freelance Writer resume guide and example
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• Freelance Trainer cover letter example
• Freelance Filmmaker cover letter example
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• Freelance Illustrator cover letter example
• Freelance Makeup Artist cover letter example
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• Freelance Translator cover letter example
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• Freelance Fashion Designer cover letter example

Freelance Writer cover letter example

PETER CONNOLLY

NYC, New York

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Tailoring to the Company: The cover letter specifically acknowledges the company's focus on merging technology with user experience, showing that the candidate has researched the company and understands its values.
• Quantifiable Achievements: The writer mentions a notable achievement at Herman LLC, providing concrete figures (over 100,000 views, a 60% increase in customer engagement), which help illustrate their success and potential impact.
• Relevant Experience: The candidate draws attention to their background in Blockchain and SaaS sectors, which are likely highly relevant to the hiring company's field, suggesting a good fit for the role.
• Proactive Problem-Solving: Mentioning the role in optimizing website pages and email campaigns demonstrates a proactive approach and willingness to take on responsibilities beyond content creation, showcasing versatility.

Five tips on formatting your freelance writer cover letter

Do you want to make a good impression on recruiters and, at the same time, follow the best industry advice on writing your freelance writer cover letter?

Make sure to include the following:

• Header and Salutation;
• Introductory paragraph;
• Body paragraph;
• Closing paragraph;
• Signature (this one is up to you).

Remember to use the same modern, simple font for your freelance writer cover letter as you did for your resume (e.g. Lato, Rubik, etc.)

Ensure your freelance writer cover letter is single-spaced and is wrapped around a one-inch margin, like in our cover letter templates .

Once completed, use our cover letter builder to export your freelance writer cover letter in the best format to keep your information intact - PDF.

At the end of the day, your freelance writer cover letter won't be assessed by the Applicant Tracker System (ATS) software, but by the recruiters. Your information should thus be legible, organized, and follow a structured logic.

The top sections on a freelance writer cover letter

• Header : This includes your contact information, the date, and the recipient's details, ensuring that the recruiter knows who you are and how to contact you, and also shows attention to detail and professionalism.
• Greeting : Address the recruiter or hiring manager by name if possible; doing so adds a personal touch and shows that you’ve done your research, which is a valued trait for a freelance writer.
• Introduction : In this section, briefly mention your writing background, express your interest in the freelance position, and provide a hook, like a notable publication or a relevant accomplishment, to grab the reader's attention immediately.
• Body : The body should showcase your prior writing experience, demonstrate an understanding of the company's content style or objectives, and include specific examples of how your skills have contributed to previous projects or publications, reflecting your ability to deliver similarly excellent results.
• Closing : Conclude with a call to action, such as expressing eagerness to discuss how your writing can align with the company’s needs, and thanking the recipient for considering your application, showing courtesy and professionalism which fosters a good first impression.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Strong writing and editing skills: Demonstrates the core competency required for creating compelling content.
• Versatility in writing styles: Shows adaptability to different writing tasks, tones, and target audiences.
• Proven track record delivering high-quality content on time: Indicates reliability and professionalism in meeting deadlines.
• Expertise in a particular subject matter or niche: Suggests in-depth knowledge that can add value to content within specialized fields.
• Experience with SEO and digital content strategies: Highlights an understanding of how to optimize content for online audiences and search engines.
• Excellent research abilities: Reflects the capacity to gather accurate information and create well-informed content.

Personalizing your freelance writer cover letter salutation

Always aim to address the recruiter from the get-go of your freelance writer cover letter.

• the friendly tone (e.g. "Dear Paul" or "Dear Caroline") - if you've previously chatted up with them on social media and are on a first-name basis;
• the formal tone (e.g. "Dear Ms. Gibbs" or "Dear Ms. Swift") - if you haven't had any previous conversation with them and have discovered the name of the recruiter on LinkedIn or the company website;
• the polite tone (e.g. "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear HR Team") - at all costs aim to avoid the "To whom it may concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam", as both greetings are very old-school and vague.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Company Name] Team,
• Dear [Department] Supervisor,
• Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear [First Name] [Last Name],

Using your freelance writer cover letter intro to show your dedication

We know just how difficult it is to start writing your freelance writer cover letter introduction .

There are so many great qualities you have as a professional, which one should you choose?

How about writing up to two sentences about your passion and commitment to the work you do or are set to do?

Try to describe exactly what you enjoy about the potential role.

A positive attitude from the get-go will help you stand out as a motivated freelance writer professional.

What to write in the middle or body of your freelance writer cover letter

Here's where it gets tricky.

Your freelance writer cover letter body should present you in the best light possible and, at the same time, differ from your resume.

Don't be stuck in making up new things or copy-pasting from your resume. Instead, select just one achievement from your experience.

Use it to succinctly tell a story of the job-crucial skills and knowledge this taught you.

Your freelance writer cover letter is the magic card you need to further show how any organization or team would benefit from working with you.

Finishing off your freelance writer cover letter with what matters most

So far, you've done a fantastic job in tailoring your freelance writer cover letter for the role and recruiter.

Your final opportunity to make a good impression is your closing paragraph.

And, no, a "Sincerely yours" just won't do, as it sounds too vague and impersonal.

End your freelance writer cover letter with the future in mind.

So, if you get this opportunity, what do you plan to achieve? Be as specific, as possible, of what value you'd bring to the organization.

You could also thank recruiters for their interest in your profile and prompt for follow-up actions (and organizing your first interview).

Lacking experience: here's how to write your freelance writer cover letter

As a candidate with no experience, it's important to be honest from the get-go of your application .

Use your freelance writer cover letter to sell your unique talents. Choose an accomplishment from your academic background or your volunteer work to show the skills that are relevant to the role.

Focus on your career objectives and how you see the job to align with them. Be specific and, at the same time, realistic about where you picture yourself in five years.

Key takeaways

Writing your freelance writer cover letter doesn't need to turn into an endless quest, but instead:

• Create an individual freelance writer cover letter for each role you apply to, based on job criteria (use our builder to transform your resume into a cover letter, which you could edit to match the job);
• Stick with the same font you've used in your resume (e.g. Raleway) and ensure your freelance writer cover letter is single-spaced and has a one-inch margin all around;
• Introduce your enthusiasm for the role or the company at the beginning of your freelance writer cover letter to make a good first impression;
• Align what matters most to the company by selecting just one achievement from your experience, that has taught you valuable skills and knowledge for the job;
• End your freelance writer cover letter like any good story - with a promise for greatness or follow-up for an interview.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

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How To Create A Freelance Writer Cover Letter (+Sample)

“First impressions last a lifetime.”

Nowhere is this truer than in the world of freelance writing, where your cover letter is often the first introduction a client has to your professional capabilities. A compelling cover letter can be the gateway to securing coveted projects . However, even seasoned writers sometimes falter when it comes to crafting an engaging cover letter that succinctly captures their skills and enthusiasm. Fear not! I’m here to guide you through the nuances of creating that perfect first impression. Stick around, and I’ll also provide a sample to get you started on the right foot.

How To Write A Freelance Writer Cover Letter

The best rule to follow while writing a cover letter is to keep it simple . You don’t have to get into fancy details and take things out of the way. Clients don’t want to waste their time reading irrelevant information. Let’s talk about the best things to include in your cover letter.

1. Greet the client

What do you do when you first meet someone? You greet them! Although professional greetings typically include addressing the other person “mam” or “sir”, that’s not the case with freelance writer cover letters. For cover letters, you can neither be too casual nor too formal while greeting the client. However, it’s still necessary to keep your tone professional as you’re talking to someone for the first time. You cannot go like, “Hey, what’s up?”. Such sentences will spoil the first impression, as it is extremely casual. So, the best idea is to greet the client with “Hey” or “Hi” and mention the client’s name as well. This will help build a personal connection.

2. Make the client feel the job is for you

When writing a cover letter , use a confident tone and make the client feel you’re the best candidate for the position. To do this, you can start the cover letter with a personable and conversational sentence. A casual tone might do the job here. This first line should tell the client that you’re the one they’re looking for. Also, make it your goal to establish a rapport with the client early on.

3. Introduce yourself

A short introduction is enough to tell the client about you. If they’re interested in knowing more, they’ll ask you in the interview process. Therefore, the introduction should comprise a line or two, specifically about your career as a freelance writer . Going out of the way and including your education, age, location, etc., will sound sloppy unless required. You can introduce yourself as a content writer and tell the client how you came to know about their job post if the situation calls for it. A line or two will do the job!

4. Share your experience

Letting the client know about your experience is one of the most important aspects of a freelance writer ’s cover letter. After all, they need to know about your expertise and professionalism to consider you for the position. Mentioning your track record in the cover letter helps you stand out among the pool of applicants.

Here’s what might count when touting your work experience:

• How long you’ve been in content writing
• The number of articles you’ve written
• The type of content you specialize in
• Your published content

Although technical skills aren’t that necessary in content writing, it’s still better to include your experience with keyword research tools and other implements that come in handy for freelance writing.

5. Stay in line with the job requirements

Even though you already have a great cover letter, it pays to customize it according to your client’s requirements. You might need to make a few edits to make the client feel as if you’ve written the cover letter specifically for them. You can leave a few spaces blank in your general cover letter and fill them in when applying for specific jobs. For example, if the client wants a writer in the pet niche, you can use the blank space in your general cover letter and add “pet niche” while applying for that job. Also, if the client wants a specialist, say in a medical niche , you’ll have an edge against the competition if you’re a doctor, or at least, have an educational background on the subject. All these tricks will help the client think you’re the right match with every line they read!

6. Don’t forget any extra skills!

While your experience is the first thing to make you stand out in the market, your specialized skills that apply to the job come next. If you have some extra skills like keyword research or creative abilities like basic graphic design and lay-outing, it’s best to mention them too. These skills will increase your chances of getting hired as the clients will trust you more.

7. Hook the client with your words

Well, being a professional writer , keeping the readers hooked by the right words won’t be a difficult task, right? With every line the client reads, they should get a value that’ll persuade them to hire you. If they see benefits in what you offer, they’ll take the step forward.

8. Keep it short and to the point

Many writers think cover letters should be verbose with several paragraphs. But they’re wrong. Cover letters are supposed to be concise and direct to the point. You should limit your cover letter to 3-4 paragraphs only. Just think of it this way: clients have probably hundreds of job proposals in line. With so much work already on their list, do they have time to read tediously long cover letters? So, it’s better to make things easy for your client as well. While many people might opt for long cover letters, you should not follow suit, unless it’s required by the client, which rarely does. For example, the client might want to know about the applicant’s detailed experience. In that case, you can make the cover letter longer by adding a few more things. But generally, keep it short and to the point.

9. Wrap it up

As you end up, you can establish a friendly relationship with the client. Start by thanking them and letting them know that applying for the job is a good experience for you and you’ll be happy to get this role. Then, express your willingness to answer whatever other questions they may have, and leave your contact details or how they can reach you.

10. Proofread it!

Proofreading your cover letter is essential. You might come across mistakes you previously overlooked. As a content writer, any grammatical or spelling errors will impede your chances of getting hired. So, make sure your cover letter is free of mistakes. As a practical application of what we discussed above, I prepared a freelance writer cover letter sample for you!

Freelance writer cover letter sample

Dear [client’s name], I was excited to come across your content writing opportunity, and I believe my 5+ years of experience in the field aligns perfectly with your requirements. Throughout my writing journey, I have consistently produced high-quality blog posts, website content, and affiliate reviews. My proficiency doesn’t just stop at creating compelling narratives; I am also well-versed in SEO and utilize state-of-the-art keyword research tools. My articles have consistently achieved top rankings on Google, resulting in a traffic increase of up to 25% for numerous clients. Understanding the ever-evolving digital landscape, I ensure that my writing remains conversational and engaging, keeping readers hooked and conveying the intended message effectively. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of leveraging my skills to drive results for your company. Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how I can be an asset to your team. Warm regards, [Your Name]

Final words

Creating a freelance writer cover letter may seem difficult because of the need to convey substantial information in just a few paragraphs. I trust that the comprehensive guide I presented here, along with a free sample at the end, will help you! Next up, you may want to explore a guide on how to create a freelance writer bio .

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Rafal Reyzer

Hey there, welcome to my blog! I'm a full-time entrepreneur building two companies, a digital marketer, and a content creator with 10+ years of experience. I started RafalReyzer.com to provide you with great tools and strategies you can use to become a proficient digital marketer and achieve freedom through online creativity. My site is a one-stop shop for digital marketers, and content enthusiasts who want to be independent, earn more money, and create beautiful things. Explore my journey here , and don't miss out on my AI Marketing Mastery online course.

Freelance Writer Cover Letter Example

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Start your Freelance Writer cover letter by addressing the recipient by name, if possible. This personal touch shows you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the role. Then, introduce yourself and your profession, and briefly mention your most relevant experience or skills. For example, "As a seasoned freelance writer with over five years of experience in the tech industry, I was excited to come across your job posting." This not only grabs the reader's attention but also gives them an idea of your background and why you're a good fit for the job. Remember, the opening of your cover letter should be compelling and make the reader want to learn more about you.

The best way for Freelance Writers to end a cover letter is by expressing gratitude for the reader's time and consideration, reiterating their interest in the role, and inviting further discussion. For instance, "Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing my writing skills to your team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss this further." This approach shows professionalism and eagerness. It's also important to include your contact information at the end, even if it's already on your resume. This makes it easy for the hiring manager to reach out to you. Lastly, sign off with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name.

Freelance writers should include several key elements in their cover letter to make it effective and engaging. 1. Contact Information: This includes your name, address, phone number, and email address. It's essential to provide this information so potential clients can easily reach you. 2. Introduction: Start with a brief introduction about yourself. Mention your profession as a freelance writer and your interest in the job. 3. Experience and Skills: Highlight your writing experience and skills relevant to the job you're applying for. If you have experience in a specific niche, mention it. For example, if you're applying for a health-related writing job and you have experience in that field, it's worth mentioning. 4. Portfolio: Include a link to your portfolio or samples of your work. This gives potential clients a chance to see your writing style and quality. If you have published work, provide links or references to them. 5. Understanding of the Project: Show that you understand the project by summarizing it in your own words and explaining how you can contribute to it. This shows potential clients that you've read and understood their requirements. 6. Availability: Mention your availability. If you're available for immediate start, say so. If you have other commitments, be honest about when you can start and how much time you can dedicate to the project. 7. Professional Tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout the letter. Even though you're a freelancer, you need to show that you take your work seriously. 8. Closing: End the letter with a professional closing. Thank the reader for their time and express your interest in hearing from them soon. Remember, the cover letter is your chance to make a good first impression. Make it count by showcasing your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the project.

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How to Write a Freelance Writer Cover Letter (For Beginners)

I know, applying to a gig that requires you to submit a freelance writer cover letter can be a bit confusing. In this article, I’ll be going over exactly what to include, exclude and focus on in cover letters for freelance writing jobs.

Cover letters are part and parcel of many freelance writing websites like Upwork . But if you’re a beginner, it can be that much harder to write one that actually converts prospects into clients. So, for this article, I decided to write a cover letter for a real freelance writer job as if I had no experience at all and was just starting out in the industry.

Ps: Here’s the video format of this article.

Online Cover Letter Templates Cause More Harm Than Good

Now, this is quite important to consider. I’d highly advise you against using cover letter templates available online. Instead, I’ll be focusing on breaking down all the parts of a freelance writer cover letter and explaining them so you can create your own customizable template. Obviously, you should feel free to copy a few sentences here and there.

Now, there are broadly two reasons why I suggest freelance writers not to use cover letter templates available online.

• Most of these templates are extensively used in the industry and clients often receive the same cover letter over and over again.
• Ideally, the client should feel like you are the best person for exactly what he needs. However, templates often don’t provide you with leeway to personalize and customize.

But does that mean you’ll have to write a cover letter from scratch for every job post?

Not at all. Instead of using someone else’s cover letter template, you should make your own according to your expertise and the type of jobs that you apply to. If you apply to 2 different types of jobs regularly (for example, blog post writing and product reviews) you can even write two separate cover letter templates for both, which is something I did as well.

Naturally, you’ll still need to edit 2-3 sentences every time you apply to a new gig, but the results are worth it.

2 Tips to Keep In Mind Before You Start

Right, so before we move on to the cover letter that I wrote for a real freelance writing job, there are 2 tips that you should be well aware of.

It’s Not About You

This took me a lot of time to understand, but once I did, it changed my cover letter writing game for the better.

Your cover letter is not about you and what you know as a professional… it’s about how your services can help the client reach his goals. When writing a cover letter, focus on what the client wants when he hires you and then target that.

For example, when a client wants blog post writers, he doesn’t want articles for his blog. Instead, he actually wants the traffic and ad revenue that will come by writing that blog post. So, if you target these points, you’ll have a better chance of getting that freelance writing job.

Put Yourself in the Client’s Shoes

Ask yourself: If I was the client, what would I be looking for in a writer? What qualities and skills would I value the most? Once you have the answer, you can pivot your cover letter according to that knowledge.

Freelance Writer Cover Letter Example

Now, let’s take a look at the job post that we’re writing our example cover letter for.

Now, here’s the cover letter:

Hey Katherine,

I was scrolling through _____________ Facebook group and saw that you’re in search of a product description writer. In that regard, I think we might be a great match.

As a product description writer, I understand how important it is to provide maximum value in a small number of words. With my writing, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to compel your readers within 50-60 words into buying your product.

For reference, I’ve attached a product description sample to this email.

PS since I’m just starting out, I’m happy to provide you 10% off in case of a long-term contract.

[ Your Name ]

How to Start a Freelance Writer Cover Letter?

For the sake of this blog post, let’s imagine that the client’s name is Katherine. So, when starting the cover letter, we’ll use the first name of the client, and write something like:

“ Hey Katherine ”

Don’t use excessively formal salutations like madam, miss, and sir. Using such a salutation is a major turn off for high-paying clients because it makes your cover letter sound like a copy-paste one. I’d urge you again to personalize your cover letter as much as you can.

Now, when you use the first name of a client, that shows two things:

• You’re confident
• Establishes you as an equal
• Helps you build a connection with the client

If you’ve watched the YouTube videos on my channel, you’ll know that establishing yourself as an equal is an important quality in freelance writing.

In fact, here are 3 qualities that all successful freelancers have.

Paragraph 1: Introduction

Right so now, we’ll proceed to the first paragraph where we’ll introduce ourselves and clarify the context in which we’re approaching the client.

For this specific job post, this is what I wrote:

Now, this paragraph introduces me as a product description writer and also provides the client with context as to what I’m approaching her for.

Not just that, this short paragraph makes it evident that this is not just a copy-paste cover letter that has been sent out to everyone or every job that I’ve applied to. Instead, it’s been written specifically for that client and her job post.

You’ll get your client’s full attention when she sees you putting effort into properly writing an individual cover letter for her.

Paragraph 2: Sell Yourself

It’s time for the second paragraph now. This is where you sell yourself.

Why should you be hired? Why are you the best person for the job?

Right, so for this job post I’ll be targeting point number three which suggests that the word limit should be 50-60.

The reason for that is that you find keywords from the job post and then focus on them. This way, the client knows that you’re the perfect fit for exactly what she needs.

So, here I’ve written:

Short, really punch, and exactly what the client needs.

By this time, the client knows that you’re the perfect fit.

Now, what I like to do after this is to link to my past samples. What is a sample? It is your past work that’s similar to what this client wants. So, once the client goes through your samples, he or she knows the quality of work that you provide.

So, in this case I’ll write:

Here’s a sample of a product description that I wrote for a client in the past [Attach link]

But I mentioned at the start of this post that I’m going to write this cover letter as if I’m a complete newbie with no experience. Since I have no experience, so I have no past work to show.

What will I do in that case? I’ll go to Amazon or any other eCommerce website and I’ll find a product related to the products that the client wants product descriptions for.

In this case, these products belong to the fashion, lifestyle, gadgets, and pet product categories. You can find these products on amazon or Ebay easily.

Next, I’ll write a product description of 50-60 words. Since I’ll already have a product description in front of me, I’ll ensure that I write something better.

So, in this case, I would write:

For reference I’ve attached a product description sample for you

…and then I’ll attach a Word file or a PDF document.

Paragraph 3: Closing

After that, the next paragraph is very simple and short. Here’s what I wrote:

Hope to hear back from you soon so we can discuss the project further.

What does that show? That shows the client that you’re positive and ready to take this forward.

But as I close, I use postscripts as well where I try to seal the deal in case the client is still wondering whether I’m the right fit for him.

And these postscripts have been a game-changer for me because I mention some past expertise that really help me to stand out from the crowd.

But in this case, we’re writing the cover letter as a beginner and have no real expertise to offer to the client. How can you seal the deal in the end?

Well here’s what I wrote:

Now, check out point number 9 from the job posting.

As you can see, it states that even though this is a one-off gig, it could be converted into a long-term arrangement depending on the work provided. And using our postscript, we’ve not only addressed that but have also made our offer that much more irresistible.

The client has reason to take this long term now. The client knows that.

To end, simply write,

Regards, [Your name]

As a reference, I’m going to be showing you the completed cover letter next. You can bookmark this page for future reference.

I’d suggest you read it through and try to break it down into different parts like the intro, selling, and closing.

So, that was my detailed post on how to write freelance writer cover letters . If you want to learn more about my tips and techniques to help non-native freelance writers make it big in the industry, check out my free eBook .

4 thoughts on “How to Write a Freelance Writer Cover Letter (For Beginners)”

Pingback: Top 12 Freelance Writing Niches For Making $100+Per Article – Khalil Ullah Khan

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AOA, Khalil bhai, My name is M Arsal Murad. My age is 16 years and I am a newbie in freelancing and have joined Upwork a week ago. I am facing some problem in negotiating with my first client. I will be grateful If you read my problem and advise me on what I should do. My client asked me to give him a picture description which he attached to his job. When I gave him the description, he asked me about my rate of 1000 words. I told him that I am a newbie in freelancing and do not know the rates yet. He asked me how much time I would take to write 60k words. I told him that I would take about 25 to 30 days and I further said that If you want it earlier I can write it in a shorter period. He told me to calculate the time I needed and to calculate the worth of the time. I told him that I think that 30 to 40 dollars per 1000 words are good. But the price is negotiable. He then said that he has hired someone else for his job. The next day, I messaged him that if he needs me for any of his work then I am ready. He said that he has hired someone for 5 dollars per 1000 words. I told him that if you consider then I am ready to write 1000 words for 5 dollars. I told you before that I do not know the prices yet. He asked me to give him a sample article on ” How to make a free website on Wix.xom” I asked him about how much time I have. He said that there is no time limit, just try to write it as soon as possible. After 5-6 hours I sent him the sample article with a message that it is 100% unique. If you want to do a plagiarism test then you can. He asked me is that 100% unique? Not even a few words are copied? I answered him with a yes. I asked him whether he liked the article or not. He said give me some time. I then asked him about his opinion about 4 hours later. This is what he said

“Man, you are too rushy, Don’t message me, I’ll send you work.” I replied to him with a sorry.

Now almost 2 days have gone and he hasn’t replied to me. Now this is what I want to ask you. What should I do? Should I reply to him? If yes, then what should be the reply? I will be grateful to you if you help me in this situation.

Salam Arsal, First up, congrats on taking your first step into this field. And that too, at a very young age.

So I read your comment and here’s what I have to say:

Firstly, you shouldn’t have gone into a negotiation without research. The rate that you quoted to the client was way too much. You should have discussed the rate with someone in the industry or posted about it in a freelancing Facebook group. Because you quoted such a high rate, it’s embarrassing for a client to counter that with a rate that’s 5-6 times lower.

Secondly, you need to understand that for you, this job is a very big deal because you’re just starting out and all. I remember how I used to keep thinking about a job once I applied to it and whether the client would reply or not. But understand that it’s not that important in the client’s life. He probably has half a dozen different things to do at the time and the last thing he wants is someone messaging him repeatedly and bothering him. Just take a deep breath and relax. Give the client space. If he wants, he’ll reply. If he doesn’t, then you messaging him repeatedly will not change that.

In this case, you shouldn’t message the client any more. He has made it quite clear that he’ll send you work if he has any.

Now to my advice: Stop Upwork and start from Facebook groups. I’m not even sure if Upwork allows people under 18 to work on the platform and sooner or later, they are gonna ask you to send a copy of your ID for verification.

Secondly, you’re a beginner right now and are inevitably going to make mistakes just like this one. We all did and that’s okay.

The problem with Upwork is that these mistakes will reflect on your profile reviews and having a bad review on a new profile will make it extremely hard to find new projects on the platform.

I’d recommend you to read this blog post to understand how you can start freelance writing on Facebook and grow from there. https://khalilullahkhan.com/freelance-writing-on-facebook/

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How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job

I ’ve read thousands, maybe tens of thousands, of cover letters in my career. If you’re thinking that sounds like really boring reading, you’re right. What I can tell you from enduring that experience is that most cover letters are terrible — and not only that, but squandered opportunities. When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test.

So let’s talk about how to do cover letters right.

First, understand the point of a cover letter.

The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just your résumé. Managers generally aren’t hiring based solely on your work history; your experience is crucial, yes, but they’re also looking for someone who will be easy to work with, shows good judgment, communicates well, possesses strong critical thinking skills and a drive to get things done, complements their current team, and all the other things you yourself probably want from your co-workers. It’s tough to learn much about those things from job history alone, and that’s where your cover letter comes in.

Because of that …

Whatever you do, don’t just summarize your résumé.

The No. 1 mistake people make with cover letters is that they simply use them to summarize their résumé. This makes no sense — hiring managers don’t need a summary of your résumé! It’s on the very next page! They’re about to see it as soon as they scroll down. And if you think about it, your entire application is only a few pages (in most cases, a one- or two-page résumé and a one-page cover letter) — why would you squander one of those pages by repeating the content of the others? And yet, probably 95 percent of the cover letters I see don’t add anything new beyond the résumé itself (and that’s a conservative estimate).

Instead, your cover letter should go beyond your work history to talk about things that make you especially well-suited for the job. For example, if you’re applying for an assistant job that requires being highly organized and you neurotically track your household finances in a detailed, color-coded spreadsheet, most hiring managers would love to know that because it says something about the kind of attention to detail you’d bring to the job. That’s not something you could put on your résumé, but it can go in your cover letter.

Or maybe your last boss told you that you were the most accurate data processor she’d ever seen, or came to rely on you as her go-to person whenever a lightning-fast rewrite was needed. Maybe your co-workers called you “the client whisperer” because of your skill in calming upset clients. Maybe you’re regularly sought out by more senior staff to help problem-solve, or you find immense satisfaction in bringing order to chaos. Those sorts of details illustrate what you bring to the job in a different way than your résumé does, and they belong in your cover letter.

If you’re still stumped, pretend you’re writing an email to a friend about why you’d be great at the job. You probably wouldn’t do that by stiffly reciting your work history, right? You’d talk about what you’re good at and how you’d approach the work. That’s what you want here.

You don’t need a creative opening line.

If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you don’t. Just be simple and straightforward:

• “I’m writing to apply for your X position.”

• “I’d love to be considered for your X position.”

• “I’m interested in your X position because …”

• “I’m excited to apply for your X position.”

That’s it! Straightforward is fine — better, even, if the alternative is sounding like an aggressive salesperson.

Show, don’t tell.

A lot of cover letters assert that the person who wrote it would excel at the job or announce that the applicant is a skillful engineer or a great communicator or all sorts of other subjective superlatives. That’s wasted space — the hiring manager has no reason to believe it, and so many candidates claim those things about themselves that most managers ignore that sort of self-assessment entirely. So instead of simply declaring that you’re great at X (whatever X is), your letter should demonstrate that. And the way you do that is by describing accomplishments and experiences that illustrate it.

Here’s a concrete example taken from one extraordinarily effective cover-letter makeover that I saw. The candidate had originally written, “I offer exceptional attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and a talent for managing complex projects with a demonstrated ability to prioritize and multitask.” That’s pretty boring and not especially convincing, right? (This is also exactly how most people’s cover letters read.)

In her revised version, she wrote this instead:

“In addition to being flexible and responsive, I’m also a fanatic for details — particularly when it comes to presentation. One of my recent projects involved coordinating a 200-page grant proposal: I proofed and edited the narratives provided by the division head, formatted spreadsheets, and generally made sure that every line was letter-perfect and that the entire finished product conformed to the specific guidelines of the RFP. (The result? A five-year, $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying this same level of attention to detail to tasks as visible as prepping the materials for a top-level meeting and as mundane as making sure the copier never runs out of paper.”

That second version is so much more compelling and interesting — and makes me believe that she really is great with details.

If there’s anything unusual or confusing about your candidacy, address it in the letter.

Your cover letter is your chance to provide context for things that otherwise might seem confusing or less than ideal to a hiring manager. For example, if you’re overqualified for the position but are excited about it anyway, or if you’re a bit underqualified but have reason to think you could excel at the job, address that up front. Or if your background is in a different field but you’re actively working to move into this one, say so, talk about why, and explain how your experience will translate. Or if you’re applying for a job across the country from where you live because you’re hoping to relocate to be closer to your family, let them know that.

If you don’t provide that kind of context, it’s too easy for a hiring manager to decide you’re the wrong fit or applying to everything you see or don’t understand the job description and put you in the “no” pile. A cover letter gives you a chance to say, “No, wait — here’s why this could be a good match.”

Keep the tone warm and conversational.

While there are some industries that prize formal-sounding cover letters — like law — in most fields, yours will stand out if it’s warm and conversational. Aim for the tone you’d use if you were writing to a co-worker whom you liked a lot but didn’t know especially well. It’s okay to show some personality or even use humor; as long as you don’t go overboard, your letter will be stronger for it.

Don’t use a form letter.

You don’t need to write every cover letter completely from scratch, but if you’re not customizing it to each job, you’re doing it wrong. Form letters tend to read like form letters, and they waste the chance to speak to the specifics of what this employer is looking for and what it will take to thrive in this particular job.

If you’re applying for a lot of similar jobs, of course you’ll end up reusing language from one letter to the next. But you shouldn’t have a single cover letter that you wrote once and then use every time you apply; whatever you send should sound like you wrote it with the nuances of this one job in mind.

A good litmus test is this: Could you imagine other applicants for this job sending in the same letter? If so, that’s a sign that you haven’t made it individualized enough to you and are probably leaning too heavily on reciting your work history.

No, you don’t need to hunt down the hiring manager’s name.

If you read much job-search advice, at some point you’ll come across the idea that you need to do Woodward and Bernstein–level research to hunt down the hiring manager’s name in order to open your letter with “Dear Matilda Jones.” You don’t need to do this; no reasonable hiring manager will care. If the name is easily available, by all means, feel free to use it, but otherwise “Dear Hiring Manager” is absolutely fine. Take the hour you just freed up and do something more enjoyable with it.

Keep it under one page.

If your cover letters are longer than a page, you’re writing too much, and you risk annoying hiring managers who are likely sifting through hundreds of applications and don’t have time to read lengthy tomes. On the other hand, if you only write one paragraph, it’s unlikely that you’re making a compelling case for yourself as a candidate — not impossible, but unlikely. For most people, something close to a page is about right.

Don’t agonize over the small details.

What matters most about your cover letter is its content. You should of course ensure that it’s well-written and thoroughly proofread, but many job seekers agonize over elements of the letter that really don’t matter. I get tons of  questions from job seekers  about whether they should attach their cover letter or put it in the body of the email (answer: No one cares, but attaching it makes it easier to share and will preserve your formatting), or what to name the file (again, no one really cares as long as it’s reasonably professional, but when people are dealing with hundreds of files named “resume,” it’s courteous to name it with your full name).

Approaching your cover letter like this can make a huge difference in your job search. It can be the thing that moves your application from the “maybe” pile (or even the “no” pile) to the “yes” pile. Of course, writing cover letters like this will take more time than sending out the same templated letter summarizing your résumé — but 10 personalized, compelling cover letters are likely to get you more  interview invitations  than 50 generic ones will.

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