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Startup Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

To earn a position as a startup professional, you will need a cover letter that perfectly encapsulates your talents and dedication. In our ultimate guide, we'll provide you with handy tips, real-life examples, and compelling templates to help you craft that compelling startup cover letter effectively and with ease.

Keep reading to learn all about how to:

• Craft a well-formatted startup cover letter header & headline
• Create a personalized greeting on your startup cover letter
• Write an eye-catching startup cover letter introduction
• Showcase your value as a startup professional
• End your cover letter with a powerful closing statement
• Access the best job search resources for startup professionals

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

1. Craft a well-formatted startup cover letter header & headline

To begin writing your startup cover letter, the first key steps are to create a properly formatted header and headline.

Cover letter headers are often found in the top left corner of the document and detail all the necessary information about the company and applicant.

Comparatively, a cover letter headline is similar to a title, placed directly after the header but before the greeting of the cover letter.

To better demonstrate how to craft each of these elements, here are more-in depth explanations and examples of each:

Formatting the header

In the header of your startup cover letter, there should be between 3 to 4 lines of text that include:

• The name of the company & department you are applying to
• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information (phone number, email address, etc.)

Here is an example of what an effective header may look like on a startup cover letter

To: The Bronze Group, Business Development Department From: Joe King , Startup Specialist (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/joe-king

Writing the Headline

When writing the headline to your startup cover letter, you should always use a keyword related to the position, an eye-catching number or trigger word , a powerful adjective or verb , and a promise .

Here is an example of a well-written headline on a startup cover letter

My 3 Startup Successes that Make Me the Ideal Addition to Your Business Team

Trigger Word/Number : 3 Successes Keyword: Startup Adjective: Ideal Promise: Your Business Team – the inclusion of this detail at the end of your headline shows the employer you will not only explain your skills and achievements but that you will also relate this specifically to their company’s needs.

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2. create a personalized greeting on your startup cover letter.

Whenever you write a startup cover letter, it is crucial to use a personalized greeting rather than a generalized one.

Generalized greetings – such as “To Whom It May Concern” – fail to show employers any attention to detail or help to hook their attention. On the other hand, a personalized greeting will address a specific person or department by name, revealing to employers that you have completed thorough research on their company before applying.

If you are unable to pinpoint the exact person or department who will review your application, try out one of these alternatives:

To the [Company Name] Team

To the [Company Name] Hiring Manager

3. Craft an eye-catching startup cover letter introduction

The headline and greeting of your startup cover letter help to initially hook the employer’s attention – but to keep them intrigued, you will need an eye-catching introductory paragraph .

A strong cover letter introduction will include:

• A brief overview of your professional history and goals
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible)

Here is an example to help demonstrate how to write a startup cover letter introduction

To the [Company Name] Hiring Manager,

I am a Startup Advisor & Specialist with 3+ years of experience working with technology company founders and experts. After meeting your Head of FinTech Communications at a recent conference and learning about your company’s ongoing objectives and mission, I found that I share your professional outlook on the FinTech industry and decided to apply for this position.

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4. Showcase your value as a startup professional

Following the introduction to your startup cover letter are the body paragraphs. Most cover letters will contain between 2 to 4 body paragraphs that offer in-depth answers to these 4 key questions:

• What excites you about working at this company?
• What do you hope to learn from working at this company?
• What accomplishments or qualifications make you stand out as an applicant?
• What key skills do you possess that are relevant to the position?

Describing your accomplishments as a startup professional is particularly important, as this helps to show employers the actionable and real-life value you can provide.

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

As the Startup Advisor for [Former Employer], I negotiated with major investors to help fund the company’s launch and initial product development. These negotiations led to the acquisition of 3 key investors who offered a market value of more than $3M to help support the company’s launch.

5. End your cover letter with a powerful closing statement

To end your startup cover letter, you need a powerful closing statement that includes:

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

Here is an example of an effective closing statement on a startup cover letter

With my years of experience and successes as a Startup Specialist, I am confident I can provide your company with the support it needs during its development and launch. I am eager to meet with you directly to discuss further what I can bring to the table, and am available for calls or in-person meetings Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The best way to reach me is at (123) 456-7890, or via email at [email protected].

Warm Regards,

[Applicant Name]

  Follow this cover letter outline for maximum success.

6. Best job search resources for startup professionals

Navigating the job market as a startup professional presents its unique challenges and opportunities. The key lies in knowing where to look and which resources can provide the most relevant guidance, connections, and openings. Here are some of the best tools and platforms that can aid in your search:

• Networking platforms:  In the startup ecosystem, it's often about who you know. Platforms like LinkedIn and Meetup allow you to connect with other startup enthusiasts and professionals, join relevant groups, and attend events that can help you expand your network.
• Specialized job boards:  There are several job boards specifically targeting startups. Websites like AngelList  or  CrunchBoard  are excellent platforms to discover opportunities in startups.
• Startup events and meetups:  Tech conferences, startup weekends, and meetups are invaluable for making connections and getting your foot in the door. Websites like Eventbrite or Meetup can help you find relevant events.
• Startup news sites:  Staying informed about the latest in the startup world is crucial. Websites like TechCrunch , VentureBeat , and Startup Grind not only provide news but also list job openings on occasion.
• Online learning platforms:  Websites like Coursera , Udemy , and LinkedIn Learning offer a range of courses that can help you upskill and stay ahead in the competitive startup landscape.
• Social media:  Don't underestimate the power of social media. Following startup influencers and joining relevant discussion groups on platforms like X  and Facebook can also lead to potential job opportunities.
• Resume builders:  A well-tailored resume can make you stand out. Online tools like Kickresume can help you create a resume best fit for a startup job application.

Remember, finding the right position in a startup takes persistence, creativity, and a hefty dose of networking. Using these resources can streamline your job search process and help you find the right match sooner than you think.

Startup Cover Letter FAQ

A great startup cover letter should contain your contact information, the date, a professional greeting, a compelling opening paragraph highlighting your interest in the role, a brief summary of your relevant skills and experiences, a closing paragraph expressing enthusiasm for the job opportunity, and a professional closing. 

Keep your startup cover letter concise and to the point. Ideally, it should be no longer than one page. 

Absolutely! Each startup is unique, and your cover letter should reflect that you have taken the time to understand their specific needs, values, and culture. Customizing your cover letter for each startup shows your genuine interest in the role and the company. 

While it's important to maintain professionalism, startups generally appreciate a more conversational, yet respectful tone. Show enthusiasm and let your personality shine through. 

Definitely. If you have been part of other startups or similar environments in the past, mentioning these experiences can be very beneficial. It demonstrates that you are familiar with the flexible, multi-tasking, and fast-paced nature of startup work.

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

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

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• October 14, 2021

Working at a startup company has never been cooler. The vibe, the people and the open positions sound exciting. But how can you get in? In this article, we will give you a 101 on how to perfect writing your cover letter for a startup company.

We have all been there. Ready to apply for this one job that sounds amazing and we really want to get, but somehow the enthusiasm about and excitement for the job cannot translate into our cover letters. Wether you are writing cover letters for a fintech company or HR, these points can be applied to all fields. Writing a cover letter for a startup company often is a time-consuming task, if one does not know how to start and what to consider. So let’s get started with the basics.

What is a cover letter? 

The cover letter is part of your application. Whereas the CV (Curriculum vitae) gives the hiring party a written overview of your skills and experience, the cover letter specifically addresses the job you are applying for and highlights why you would be a great fit. 

In the case of wanting to join a startup, writing a cover letter for a startup does not differ much from a common cover letter. It is likely that when applying at startups, applicants are encouraged to create more creative and “out of the ordinary” cover letters. We will provide a sample cover letter for a startup company at the end of this article. (link to heading “sample cover letter”)

Why do you need a cover letter? 

Keep in mind, the hiring company (in most cases) does not know you yet. The first impression of your CV and cover letter will decide if you get a chance to introduce yourself in person. In the case of writing a cover letter for a startup, the cover letter gives you the opportunity to stand out from the crowd and demonstrate that you are a cultural match. The employer will be able to have a glance at your personality, your motivation and your ability to use grammar and language to present yourself. 

How to write a cover letter for a startup job

Google search results for a sample cover letter for a startup company are often plentiful but useless. Save yourself some time and come up with your own words instead of trying to find the perfect copy and paste template.The HR person will notice your effort and commitment. The upcoming bullet points guide you through this process:

• Stay true to yourself. The main thing is to really contemplate why you could succeed in this position. If you cannot come up with a good reason, maybe you should check if you are the right fit for a startup. 
• Keep it short, authentic and (maybe) spicy. Startups often have modern company structures and little time to waste. There is no general rule when it comes to writing a cover letter to join a startup. What we recommend is researching the company’s philosophy on the web, reading the job opening carefully and deciding on an individual way to address the employer. Make sure your cover letter and your CV go hand in hand.
• The job market is already at its capacity meaning we all are like fish in the sea. But that should not discourage you from trying to get your dream job . Dare to be different. Remember that your skills and how you are able to present them while writing a cover letter for a startup are potentially benefiting the employer. You can be an asset to them by pointing out the relation between the job description and your skills. 

Need a little extra inspiration to get those fingers typing?  Find guidance for a cover letter to join a startup with these 10 tips for writing the perfect cover letter.

Sample cover letter for startup company

Here we will provide a cover letter for startup companies as some examples. Bear in mind that the cover letter should include a few essentials such as personal details (name, address, phone number), hiring manager’s name (if available), source of vacancy, suitability for the position, your “value add” to the company and a closing statement.  

———————————–

[name, surname] [street name] [town name]

[company’s name] [company’s street name] [company’s town name] [location, date] Application [Job Description]

Dear [HR contact person], It has been a couple of years in the making and finally, I am at the right place, at the right time. I have been following [company’s name] for the past years thoroughly and my interest and knowledge in cryptocurrencies has been predominantly influenced by your classes, content and service. For this reason, I was beyond happy to live in a city, where [company’s name] announced this vacant position for [job description]. My background is in finance technologies and over the years I was able to work and learn much more about the fintech market in New York, London and Seattle. Financial analysis has been the focus of my work for the last decade, which has prepared me to execute all mentioned tasks of [job description]. I would be more than pleased to get on a call with you and convince you that it is the perfect timing for a collaboration. Looking forward to hearing back from you. Best regards, [Candidate]

Disclaimer : Please take this example as a benchmark. This is a very shortened and rather informal cover letter. Find your own voice. This a rticle will get you started on a sample cover letter for a startup company. 

Writing a cover letter for a startup is not rocket science 

– it takes practice. By following the mentioned points for writing a cover letter to join a startup you are on the right path. And don’t forget – a rejection letter is not the end of the world, you just have to figure out why you got rejected . Keep the spirits high and continue applying. You will find many more open positions for startups on our platform .

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How to write a stand-out cover letter when applying to a startup

I'm regularly asked by candidates whether they should write a cover letter, and what to include. I'm noting down a few recommendations that I believe will help you stand out.

Sam Franklin

Read more posts by this author.

I'm regularly asked by candidates whether they should write a cover letter, and what to include. I'm noting down a few recommendations that I believe will help you stand out.

When to write a cover letter?

If you are excited about the role, I believe there's only one situation where you shouldn't write a cover letter.

When applying for a job, sometimes companies ask for additional answers alongside a CV (e.g. "What excites you about our company?"). In this case I don't believe you need to write a cover letter. They've been helpful to give you a clear opportunity to stand out.

Otherwise, I recommend writing a cover letter. I say this because I advocate for making fewer, better applications. I know it's hard to spend more time on an individual application, especially when job searching feels like a numbers game. But I feel writing quality applications is a better strategy for securing a great role. If others are sending their CV and nothing else, and you're writing a well-crafted cover letter, you are more likely to stand out!

What to write in a cover letter

To structure the cover letter, imagine you're being asked these two questions and use one paragraph to answer each. Your cover letter should be brief (1 page).

1 - What excites you about company X?

The best way to stand out is to demonstrate you have put time and thought into understanding the company.

There are simple things you can do that will instantly elevate you above candidates who haven't put additional effort in:

• Refer to an article/blog which talks about the company
• Talk about how you've tried the product and what you like
• Write why you like the mission, or show an understanding of the problem being solved

I've also written an article on 6 areas to research before interviewing at a startup - these are all useful areas to include in a cover letter to show you're excited.

Once you've written this paragraph, ask yourself "If I replaced company X with another company, for example a competitor, would it still make sense?". If the answer is yes, you probably need to add more insight and detail. The aim is to avoid seeming generic.

I often see receive cover letters with sentences like "I want to join Otta as you are changing recruiting" and this isn't enough insight to help you stand out. In fact, sometimes it can work against you, as you've made the effort to write a cover letter but haven't taken the time to write in-depth!

2 - Why do you want this role?

Your CV tells the hiring manager about your previous experience, but it doesn't say anything about your motivations. I believe a cover letter is a great opportunity to tell more of your story.

Here are some example questions that you may want to answer in this paragraph:

• What is it about this role that you really like? (Look carefully at the job description and the areas that excite you)
• If you're applying for a more senior role, why is now the right time?
• If you're moving from a corporate to a startup, why are you confident that a fast-growth environment is right for you? (I've written an article about the qualities startups look for when hiring )
• If you're making a career shift (e.g. strategy to marketing), what is your reasoning? What have you done to make yourself confident this is the right move for you?
• What do you want to achieve in your next role?
• Where do you want to be in 3-5 years and how will this role help you?
• What's important in your next role?

You don't need to tell your whole story (e.g. why you decided to start your career as a software engineer). Ideally you'll find a few interesting areas where the hiring manager will think "yes, that's exactly what we need!" and this will elevate you above other candidates.

Don't make your cover letter an extension of your CV

When reading cover letters, I make this comment about 50% of the time. A lot of candidates use a cover letter to write their CV in more detail. Either by writing more achievements, including deeper detail about projects, or repeating selling-points from the CV.

In my experience, a hiring manager will use the CV to judge your experience and suitability. They're looking to the cover letter to find something else to excite them. I believe my advice (explaining your excitement about the company and why you want the role) will help you stand out more.

If you find yourself using a cover letter to write more detail, I recommend going back to your CV and make edits to include those details in a concise way.

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Here's How To Write a Cover Letter for a Startup Job in 2022

When you find the right fit, startups can be great places to work in, but this often doesn't eliminate the need for hiring tools like resumes and the dreaded cover letter—even in 2022.

If you're fascinated by the world of technology and want to join a startup that is at the forefront of innovation and growing fast, making a great first impression is key.

» FREE TRIAL: Sign up to LoopCV and automatically personalize your cover letters to reach more opportunities faster

For that, you'll need a cover letter.

A really, really good cover letter.

So, how do you write one that captures the attention of the hiring manager or founder? And what are the steps to jump through the technological hoops of HR software in 2022?

Let's go through each step.

Why Your Cover Letter Matters if You Want To Join a Startup

You may think that cover letters are outdated and, to some degree, they are. But they're also still used by most corporations, and startups are no different.

So what makes for a good startup cover letter?

And how does it differ from a classic one?

Searching for the right position is both a quantitative and qualitative job. You have to strike the right balance between nailing your message and sending out enough applications.

Your cover letter plays the qualitative part of the equation, especially if you're looking to apply for a job at a startup where they want to hire forward-looking individuals.

What Startups are Looking for in a Candidate

Tech startups that are serious about their growth opportunities will want to onboard forward-looking individuals who understand the "chaos" of working in a new environment.

This doesn't mean that a startup is unorganized, it just means that a lot of the processes necessary to handle the type of growth they're going through aren't ready yet.

So the primary thing a hiring manager or founder themselves will want to see from a candidate is the willingness to adapt and make decisions on your own as to what's next.

The primary thing a hiring manager or founder themselves will want to see from a candidate is the willingness to adapt and make decisions on your own as to what's next.

Unlike established firms, startups need to produce results to keep afloat and, therefore, are looking for people with a good amount of confidence in taking ownership of tasks.

(i.e. don't just follow instructions, create them!)

You can absolutely have this type of mentality come through your cover letter and, in fact, it's one of the better places to do so. A cover letter may just be an email for example.

However, don't forget that cover letters are about the value you can deliver to the startup company. They talk directly to somebody in relation to what you can do for them .

Your name, age, and past experiences won't cut it.

You need to go deep into the value you're going to provide instead…

AIDA: The 4 Elements Your Startup Cover Letter Can't Do Without

Borrowed from the world of copywriting (marketing), the AIDA model is perfect for writing a cover letter as well. It stands for Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action.

These 4 elements can help you shape the way you drive the readers' focus down to having them reach out. After all, looking for a job is a form of marketing yourself to a company.

So, let's look into each of them:

1) Attention

This is the most important aspect of your cover letter—the opening. You can't possibly get a startup owner to hire you if you don't grab their attention first, right?

To write a cover letter that grabs attention, you need to get to the heart of the problem as quickly as possible, and become hyper-relevant in doing so.

Here's an example of a standard opening:

"Dear Mr. [Manager's name],

My name is John and I'm interested in applying to [enter company]'s position as [enter role]. I have extensive experience of [enter subject matter] and believe that my skills would fit well with the type of position you're looking to fill.

I've collected multiple certifications in the field of [enter field] over the years and demonstrated impact in previous roles by working on [enter projects], where I've learned to apply my skills in stressful environments such as a startup.

Your company is interesting to me because..."

And here's an example using the AIDA model:

Looking at [enter company]'s open role for [enter position], I can contribute to the growth of your startup company in the following ways:

• Enhance the efficiency of [enter process] by applying my skills in [enter field] and communicating changes with existing employees.
• Drive [enter business goal] forward by implementing [enter tactic] and ensuring the effective rollout of each feature necessary.
• Communicate on a daily basis regarding progress made towards reaching [enter business goal] and steps taken towards improving [enter process].

Prior experience of 5+ years allows me to state with confidence that [enter company]'s goal can be achieved in [enter timeframe], advancing your business infrastructure and cementing your position as a leader in [enter industry].

My contribution to your position will..."

The AIDA model helps the reader understand the value they're getting from the very first paragraph, unlike a standard approach where the applicant talks about themselves only.

This will increase your chances of getting noticed in a sea of same-ish cover letters that are bound to end up either in the trash or that will never receive a response.

2) Interest

Grabbing attention is only one part of the equation though; now you need to attract the interest of the reader by showcasing your skills, or the how of benefitting the startup.

This is where you have free reign to talk about your skills, technicalities that may be related to the job, and things that pertain to you in regards to helping the company.

Don't go overboard, a few paragraphs will suffice. Make sure that what you write is pertinent to the benefits you've highlighted at the beginning of your cover letter.

As the hiring manager or founder goes through your cover letter, they're building up a desire for what you can bring to the table. You've literally given them all the answers!

Now you just need to reinforce the message that what you offer is what they're looking for, and you can do so with a simple message such as:

"My goal is to help [enter company] achieve the goals you've set out to hit in a timely manner, and do so while driving innovation from within the company.

This way, the value you'll gain will be shared among internal collaborators, making my contribution a team effort rather than an individual force."

Mentioning the fact that you're willing to share your knowledge inclusively (i.e. without leaving out other collaborators) increases your desirability in a startup.

Why? Because they're just getting started…

The more value they can build internally, the better.

Having somebody state that they will do what's good for the company as a whole going forward is exactly the type of message you have to send through at the Desire stage.

Finally, you want the reader to take positive action towards making your dream startup job a reality. The way you do this is by providing an entryway into your world.

You've grabbed their attention, funneled their interest, and made yourself desirable; now it's a lot easier for you to pitch your contact details rather than just saying "call me."

The key to this step is conciseness.

You don't want to confuse the reader…

Give the hiring manager one place where they can reach you in regards to your application, one only. Don't beg for a reply, simply give your contact details.

After going through all of what you've written that's specifically catered to helping the organization thrive, the hiring manager will likely shortlist you as a potential candidate.

Your chances of receiving a reply this way are 100x higher than sending a generic "I can do this and that" type of cover letter. Use AIDA to drive action!

This may sound like a lot of work and to some degree it is, but you can streamline the process significantly through the use of job search personalization software like LoopCV.

Here's an example of making your cover letter stand out for multiple startup companies without having to write a new one every single time you want to apply:

» Create a forever free account

» Choose a job title, location, and more

» Personalize your email and cover letter for each position

» Active your "loop" to send out personalized cover letters to each startup

And that's it!

You've just created an automatic way to apply to 100s of highly-qualified jobs at interesting startup companies without having to re-do your cover letter each time.

Personalize Your Startup Cover Letter & Get Replies

Your job isn't a joke, and neither is the process of searching for a job. This is why a cover letter is so important even in startup culture… It builds trust in what you can bring to the table.

In a sea of poorly-written cover letters, your chances of getting noticed are slim. But with the AIDA model (and a bit of creative energy!), you can make it to the other end successfully.

With a bit of preparation and a touch of personalization using software like LoopCV, this numbers' game will quickly turn in your favour and lend you the job of your dreams.

• Cover Letters

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How to Write A Great Cover Letter To Join a Startup in 2023 (With 3 Examples)

• Research the company and its values. Before you start writing your cover letter, take some time to research the company and its values. This will help you tailor your letter to the specific needs of the startup and show that you're a good fit for their team.
• Address the hiring manager by name: Start your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager by name. This personalizes your cover letter and shows that you've taken the time to research the company and the role.
• Show how you can contribute to the company: In your cover letter, explain how your skills and experiences can contribute to the company's success. Focus on the value you can bring to the startup and how you can help the company achieve its goals.
• Show enthusiasm for the company and its mission. Startups are often looking for people who are passionate about their mission and values. In your cover letter, be sure to show your enthusiasm for the company and what it's trying to accomplish. This will demonstrate that you're a good fit for their team and will help you stand out from other applicants.
• Keep it brief: A cover letter for a startup should be brief and to the point. Hiring managers at startups are often busy and don't have time to read long, rambling cover letters. Keep your cover letter to a single page and use bullet points to highlight your skills and experiences.
• Use a professional tone. While startups are often known for their casual and laid-back culture, it's important to use a professional tone in your cover letter. Avoid using slang or overly casual language, and instead focus on making a strong case for why you're the right person for the job.

Example Two

Example three.

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to apply for the [Position] at [Startup]. I am excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to the success of your innovative company.

As a [Previous Job/Experience], I have developed strong [Skill/Experience Relevant to Position]. In my current role, I have [Specific Example/Achievement Using Relevant Skill/Experience]. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong fit for this position.

In addition to my experience, I am a [Personal Quality Relevant to Position] individual who is eager to learn and grow with a startup like [Startup]. I am excited about the company's mission and vision, and I believe that my passion and determination will enable me to make a meaningful contribution to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the success of [Startup].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

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• How to Write an Effective Cover Letter for a Startup

Want to work for a startup? Maybe you've known about them for a while, or maybe you just ran across them on TechCrunch or Venturebeat. Before you hit apply, there are a few things to consider when putting together your application -- specifically when it comes to how you write your cover letter.

For example, it’s easy to find out who to address your cover letter to at a startup, considering the smaller teams at hand, so don’t ever resort to “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To whom it may concern.”

Here are some other best practices to help you write a great startup cover letter:

Passion matters

Startups are unique - the entire team is a group of like-minded people driven by the work they do and the problems they are tackling. This attitude comes from the top down. After all, no one is more passionate about an idea and a business than the founding team. The founders establish the company culture, drive the team to succeed, and surround themselves with people that are just as excited and gung-ho about the startup’s prospects as they are.

This is why showing your enthusiasm for the startup, its products, and its mission is crucial to writing an effective cover letter. The hiring manager reading your application will want to know that you’re on the same track and have the mindset needed to join their team. Furthermore, especially at smaller organizations, the founding team will be directly involved in the decision-making process and will read your cover letter and likely interview you.

So if you’ve been a longtime user or satisfied customer, or if you’ve been following the startup since its nascent days, or even if you’ve simply met part of the team at a happy hour or conference, talk about it! Those types of stories may not feel like they matter much in a larger corporate setting, but they can make your application outstanding in the eyes of a startup.

Embrace your uniqueness

One of the best things you can do in a startup cover letter is embrace the things that make you unique. Startup founders and employees want to know who you are beyond the job search facade you set for yourself. If you have a hobby that shows your enthusiasm and eagerness to learn, or if you enjoy sharing your expertise with the world, talk about it. It doesn’t have to be hyper-relevant. It just needs to reveal information about your character and the fact that you’re active and have a life and interests outside your day job.

So if you love blogging about video games, or if you started your own YouTube channel where you teach people how to play guitar, put in a sentence about it and add a link. Your cover letter will immediately stand out and tell the reader more about you with one sentence and a link than if you had just left it to them to discover (or miss!) with a Google search.

Display a diverse skillset

Startups are understaffed by nature. They don’t have the large hiring budgets of corporations or the name recognition and advertising money that brings them intense candidate interest. However, what they do have is pickiness - not only do they want the best of the best, but they also focus on hiring people with diverse skillsets.

“Enjoys wearing many hats” is a common requirement on a startup job description, and with good reason. If a startup had highly specialized employees who could only work on a specific subset of projects, they would get nowhere fast. So if you have a diverse skillset, whether that’s through your studies, side projects, or hobbies, take advantage and highlight it in your cover letter.

Because if you go into a startup job thinking you’ll have a role set in stone, you’re gonna have a bad time. If you go into it with an open mind and the expectation to work cross-functionally, you’ll be a superstar.

Show a vibrant attitude

Today’s hot startups may take their product and their business very seriously, but that doesn’t mean they take themselves very seriously. The ability to show a serious-yet-playful attitude in your cover letter can go a long way to helping you stand out to the reader. It all depends on the startup in question - read the way they wrote the job description, understand the type of person they’re looking for (hint: the startup’s “Careers” and “About Us” pages are your best friends here), and read through their blog posts and social media interactions to figure out how to best speak to them.

As you write your cover letter, remember to be genuine. If you’re not super passionate about the startup’s product, don’t lie about it. Instead, talk about what drove you to apply (the role and your ability to have impact, the potential to build processes and departments from the ground up, or cultural fit with the internal organization) and talk about them. For example, you may not be extremely excited to work on a specific product you aren’t a potential customer of, but you could definitely be excited to tackle the overall issue the product is addressing. No single startup will be perfect for you. Instead, you’ll find a few where you like some things, and you dislike others. Hone in and where you can be honestly excited.

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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Start-up

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Start-Up

What most job seekers do not know is that writing a cover letter for a start-up company is a completely different ball game. Unlike established corporations, start-ups require a unique and creative approach. This blog post will walk you through the steps of writing a start-up cover letter that stands out.

Understanding Start-Ups

Start-ups are companies that are in the initial phase of business. A well-crafted cover letter targeting a start-up needs to reflect that you understand the challenges and potential growth of the industry.

What Makes Start-up Cover Letters Unique?

The mindset in a start-up company is vastly different from an established business. Therefore, a successful start-up cover letter should convey outside-the-box thinking, passion for the industry and a willingness to wear multiple hats at work.

Start with Research

As with any cover letter, research is crucial. However, in the case of a start-up, you need to dig deeper. Who are the founders? What is their mission? What challenges are they facing? What are their successes?

Write a Creative Opening

A creative introduction in your cover letter can set you aside from the pack, especially in a start-up environment.

Highlight Relevant Skills

Demonstrate what you bring to the table. With start-ups, it's not just about qualifications but a blend of skills, passion, and the right mindset.

Show Enthusiasm for the Company

Demonstrated passion for the startup's mission statement can give you a competitive edge.

Closing the Cover Letter

Your closing should include a call to action. Show eagerness to participate in the growth journey of the start-up company.

In conclusion, writing a start-up cover letter requires a unique approach. By understanding the start-up culture, showing passion, highlighting relevant skills, and demonstrating a willingness to contribute to the company’s growth, you can write a compelling letter. Remember that unlike traditional corporations, start-ups are looking for innovative, dedicated and versatile individuals who can contribute to their rapid growth.

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Cover letters decoded: Tailoring your approach for startups vs. corporations

Jul 04, 2023

Freelance writer and translator, ex-recruiter

You’ve heard it a thousand times: “A generic cover letter just won’t cut it.” But how do you make an impact with this often-overlooked document? Does a cover letter for startups need to showcase different skills from a cover letter for corporations? How do their hiring processes differ? Farshad Firouzian , Talent Consultant and Career Coach based in NYC shares his experience of startups and corporate job applications and, more importantly, how you can take this into account when tailoring your cover letter.

Firouzian says that startups and large corporations are likely worlds apart when it comes to hiring. “Right off the bat, you see so many differences in the structure and rigor of the process and the organization of the process.” This means they’ll recruit candidates with different types of strengths, so you need to make sure your cover letter and resume showcase the right types of skills for the right type of company and job.

The hiring process in startups

In Firouzian’s experience, the hiring processes in startups will depend on the size of the company, but in a relatively small to midsize company (100-250 employees) he suggests there’ll be, “a slightly scrappy hiring plan with lots of flexibility depending on the types of candidates that are applying for the role.” Firouzian explains that flexibility is part of a startup’s DNA, especially if they’re scaling rapidly. They have to be willing to try new things and have new types of operating models. “They have an avant-garde way of doing things and that’s why they’re successful.” This is carried over to their hiring process. The hiring system will be less structured or indeed there won’t be a system; they’ll simply change things to accommodate what’s happening at the time.

During the startup recruitment process, the hiring team and co-founders want to get to know who you truly are under all of the masks that you wear. Firouzian adds, “I’ve been in this position many times as a recruiter, where my job is not only to get the person’s skills but also to understand who they are and what makes them tick, what gives them energy in their personal and professional lives.” He explains that this more comfortable and potentially authentic conversation is, in his opinion, one of the biggest differences in hiring expectations between a startup and a large corporation. For job hunters, that means making your cover letter a bit more personal .

Firouzian suggests that for candidates, this way of doing things puts you at an advantage because you get to know the company much more intimately and much more quickly. You sense the way that people work together, and you learn about the challenges they face on a day-to-day basis. You very quickly qualify yourself in or out because you have much more transparency with who they really are , the work that they do, and the motivations that they hold. The downside to this is that it may often take just a few interviews before the startup knows that they’d like to hire you, so you don’t get a lot of touchpoints before you get an offer. This can make candidates feel like they don’t have enough information to make an informed decision . The startup wants to hire you yesterday and there’s a lot more pressure to join a company quickly.

The hiring process in large corporations

When it comes to large corporations, Firouzian says that hiring processes are usually well-established. They’ve probably hired for the same role many times over, meaning, “they’ll have a much more structured, much more robust candidate interview process and experience . The process will be tried and true.” A corporation will have experimented many times to figure out the ideal number of candidate touchpoints to incorporate, the best resources to provide the candidate, and the right moments to do so. They’ll know how to prepare the hiring manager to have conversations with the candidate throughout the process to ensure both parties have all the information they need. There may be organized networking opportunities closer to the end of the interview process to meet the team outside of an interview setting. Large corporations are looking for their candidates to behave in a certain way. In Firouzian’s words, “They’re sussing out the candidate early on to see whether they fit into that culture .”

A great thing about the corporate hiring process is that there’s a lot more fairness and equality by design, as everyone goes through exactly the same system. You often get to speak to more people who can give you different dimensions of what it is like to work there, which hopefully means you have all the information you need to decide whether it’s the role for you. However, you might feel like you’re getting the ‘marketing line’ in terms of selling points. Sometimes the culture might feel a little inauthentic because of politics or bureaucracy.

Writing your cover letter

Craft your letter for the specific type of company you want to work for. Firouzian says a startup cover letter might offer more room for personality (depending on the role) while a corporate cover letter should be more streamlined and can follow a more uniform step-by-step protocol.

Highlight your soft skills

Both types of companies will want to ensure you have the right technical skills for the job you’re applying for and also the soft skills to bring to the role. However, different soft skills will be more highly prized in each setting.

Startup cover letter: You’re likely to be working with people with widely different skill sets to you and you’ll have to communicate efficiently with them toward a common goal. According to Firouzian, startups are often “building up the team and creating structure around the team at the same time.” Multi-tasking and being open to new ideas or even coming up with them will be highly prized, as well as being able to communicate with different types of people.

Corporate cover letter: The higher up you go the more factions you have with different interests; consider whether you’re good at finding different ways of agreeing on your goal with another stakeholder, for example. You might want to highlight negotiation skills or even your ability to see the full picture.

Structure your cover letter

Startup cover letter: Firouzian believes that startup cover letters have more space for flexibility and examples. He suggests the following format when writing your cover letter .

• What is your motivation? Tailor it to the professional journey that you believe this opportunity will allow you to continue.
• What soft skills make you a top candidate for the role?
• Use stories as examples that showcase the qualifications and motivations you’ve explained.
• Conclusion tying the themes together.

Corporate cover letter: Reflect a professional persona. This letter might be a bit more formal than a cover letter to a startup.

• Open with your skills or qualifications, and lean into both hard and soft skills.
• Explain how they will be useful to the team you’re applying for.
• Highlight your motivation. What is it about this journey or opportunity and utilizing these skills that interests you?
• Add a short conclusion if you feel it’s necessary.

Cover letter writing tips

Whether you’re writing a cover letter for a startup or corporate business there are some things everyone should include. For Firouzian these are:

• Speak to the environment you’re applying to: Don’t write a generic letter and think that will do for any company, even if you’re applying for the same role and two different startups. Firouzian recommends looking at their different stressors, pain points, and challenges, and tailoring your cover letter to match.
• Write for the hiring manager or head of the team: Recruiters may not put a lot of weight on a cover letter. They’re more likely to be read by the hiring manager or head of the team you’re applying to work with, so write it for them.
• Be completely authentic about your experience: People tend to express a version of themselves that is not 100% true or lean on skills that they feel will be perceived as valuable when they don’t enjoy using those skills. Firouzian explains that there is this sense that, “I must change to be the person this company wants me to be.” However, in reality, you do yourself a disservice and if you’re lucky (or unlucky) enough to get that job, then you’re being hired for a skillset that’s not your favorite to utilize. A few months down the line you may realize it’s not for you because there’s an element of inauthenticity.
• Be concise: If your cover letter is long, make sure that each paragraph has a clear point. Firouzian suggests you ask yourself, “What is this paragraph doing to express a different dimension of me as a candidate? What does it contain that’s essential for my employer to know about me? What is essential that comes across in this paragraph about my skill set?” Make sure your letter is organized and everything has a reason and intention for being in the cover letter.
• Avoid errors: Watch your spelling and grammar, and get the company name and person’s name right (if you’re using one). It may seem simple but, if overlooked, it could cost you your dream job !

It’s clear that whether you’re writing a cover letter for a startup or corporation, authenticity and soft skills are the way to go, you just need to showcase the right ones for the job. Navigating the differences between startups and corporations may seem like a daunting task, but with the insights from Firouzian, you’re well-equipped to tailor your cover letter effectively.

Remember, in both cases, it’s all about demonstrating your unique strengths and aligning them with the company’s needs and values . Ultimately, your cover letter should be a reflection of your authenticity, your ability to contribute to a team, and your passion for the role. Whether you choose the dynamic environment of a startup or the structured setting of a corporation, your tailored, genuine cover letter will be your foot in the door to the next exciting chapter of your career.

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Home » 7+ Unique Startup Cover Letter Sample[Free]

7+ Unique Startup Cover Letter Sample[Free]

If you are looking to create a cover letter that will score you an interview for your dream startup job, look no further! [Startup] is on the lookout for talented and ambitious individuals who are excited about the potential of our company. The team here is passionate about our work and committed to making a difference in the lives of our customers.

We believe that our products have the power to change the world, and we are looking for individuals who share this vision. If you are excited about the opportunity to join a dynamic and innovative company, [Startup] is the place for you. In your cover letter, be sure to highlight your unique skills and experiences that make you the perfect fit for our team. We can’t wait to review your application!

Table of Contents

How To Write a Startup Cover Letter?

You’ve polished your resume, practiced your elevator pitch, and scoured job postings for the perfect startup fit. But before you can hit “send” on your application, there’s one more step: the cover letter.

A great cover letter will grab the hiring manager’s attention and make them want to learn more about you. But knowing how to write a cover letter that stands out from the rest can be a challenge – especially for startups, where competition is fierce and first impressions are everything.

Here are some tips for writing a standout startup cover letter:

• Start with a bang. The first sentence of your cover letter should be eye-catching and get the reader’s attention immediately. Don’t be afraid to be creative – a little humor or an interesting story can go a long way.
• Keep it short and sweet. A good rule of thumb is to keep your cover letter to one page or less. That way, you can focus on highlighting your most relevant qualifications and why you’re excited about the opportunity.
• Personalize it. One of the worst things you can do is send a generic, cookie-cutter cover letter that could apply to any company. Take the time to research the company culture and values, and tailor your letter accordingly. Mentioning specific details about the role or sharing how you would be a good fit shows that you’re truly interested in the position.
• Proofread! Once you’ve written your cover letter, take the time to proofread it carefully for any typos or grammatical errors. These can be costly mistakes thatreflect poorly on your attention to detail – not something you want to communicate to a potential employer. If possible, ask a friend or family member to read over your letter as well before you hit “send.”

By following these tips, you can write a stand-out cover letter that will help you land an interview at your dream startup. So go ahead – put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and get started on writing the best darn cover letter out there!

Related: How To Write a Cover Letter (And Get Hired in 2022!)

Cover Letter For Startup Company

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing in regards to the Airline Job opening. So, I am confident that I have the skills and experience needed for this position and would be a valuable asset to your team.

• Some of my key qualifications include:
• Experience working in the airline industry
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to handle difficult situations and passengers
• Flexible and adaptable to change

I believe that I would be a great fit for this position and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Related: 7+ Catchy Signing Off a Cover Letter Examples

Startup Cover Letter Example

I am writing to apply for the position of startup at your company.

So, I am a recent graduate of XYZ University and I have a strong interest in entrepreneurship and business. So, I have been involved in several startups during my time in university and I have gained valuable experience in this area.

I am excited about the opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge to a real-world business setting. Also, I believe that I can contribute significantly to your company and I am eager to learn more about the business world.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Related: 5+ Unique Venture Capital Cover Letter

Startup Cover Letter Samples

Please find attached a cover letter and resume for the position of startup ___________.

I am very excited about the possibility of joining your team and contributing to the success of your business. I have a great deal of experience in the area of ___________, and I believe that my skills and knowledge would be a valuable asset to your company.

In addition, I am a highly motivated and driven individual who is always looking for new challenges. I am confident that I would be able to quickly adapt to the unique culture and environment of a startup company.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Related: 07 Best General Manager Cover Letter Samples

Cover Letter For Startup Job

I am writing to apply for the job of startup at your company. Also, I am a recent graduate of XYZ University and have a degree in business administration. I have experience working in a startup environment and am familiar with the challenges and opportunities that come with working in a fast-paced, rapidly growing company.

I am excited about the opportunity to work in a startup and am confident that I have the skills and abilities to be successful. So, I am eager to apply my knowledge and skills to help your company grow and succeed.

Related: 07 Best Cover Letter for Federal Job Samples

5 Things To Include a Startup Cover Letter

A well-crafted cover letter can be the difference between getting your foot in the door and being left out in the cold. If you’re applying for a startup job, there are a few key elements that should always be included in your cover letter. Here are 5 things to make sure you include:

• A brief overview of your professional experience. Include any relevant startups you’ve worked for in the past, and highlight any skills or accomplishments that would be relevant to the position you’re applying for.
• A explanation of why you’re excited about the opportunity to work for the startup. What is it about the company that makes you want to be a part of it?
• A description of your personal connection to the startup’s mission. Why do you believe in what they’re doing?
• A demonstration of your understanding of the startup’s business model and market opportunity. What do you see as their key challenges and how would you help them overcome them?
• Finally, close with a strong call-to-action, urging the reader to contact you to discuss the opportunity further. Include your contact information and make it easy for them to get in touch with you.

By following these tips, you can craft a cover letter that will make a strong impression and give you a better chance of landing an interview at a startup.

Related: What is Cover Letter? Complete Guide To Get any Job.

I hope you found this blog helpful. As a startup, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to writing a cover letter. But hopefully, the tips and example we’ve provided will give you a good place to start. Remember to personalize your letter for each position you apply for, and don’t forget to follow up after sending it! Thanks for reading.

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About the author.

Jessica William

How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Examples

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

You’ve perfected your resume. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, let’s get started with the basics!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step #1 - Pick the Right Cover Letter Template

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

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

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

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

Step #2 - Start the Cover Letter with a Header

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

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

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

In certain cases, you might also consider adding:

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

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

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

Step #3 - Greet the Hiring Manager

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, you do a quick lookup on LinkedIn:

And voila! You have your hiring manager.

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

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

Here are several other greetings you could use:

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

Step #4 - Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, let’s get started...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Google Search

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

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

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

Well, no. You’re not quite there yet.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You’d write something like:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step #7 - Wrap up with a call to action

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

In the final paragraph, you want to:

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

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

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

Step #8 - Use the right formal closing

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

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

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

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

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional email
• Relevant Social Media Profiles

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

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

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

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

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

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

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

Did you finalize the conclusion with a call to action?

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

5+ Cover Letter Examples

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

College Student Cover Letter Example

Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Career Change Cover Letter Example

Management Cover Letter Example

Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

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

Next Steps in Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

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

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

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

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

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

Key Takeaways

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

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

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

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

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This Cover Letter Gets Startups to Call You

There is a nasty rumor going around that recruiters and hiring managers do not read cover letters. The truth is, many large companies use software to scan resumes for keywords and then forward those candidates deemed qualified to the HR team. In this case, your stunning cover letter would not help you get to the first round.

I get it, this is frustrating because job seekers spend a lot of time applying without much signal or feedback throughout the process. Which leads to LinkedIn posts like this that encourage job seekers to stop writing cover letters all together:

Find Top Jobs in Los Angeles See Tech Companies Hiring Now

But for us little guys—the companies who hire dozens instead of hundreds; the start ups looking to change the world with team members who are equal parts talented and passionate; the tribes where each new person immediately sends ripples through the culture—we read every cover letter, and make our interview decisions based on them.

Cover letters are a chance to fill in the "why" behind the resume, especially if the industry, type of company, or role you are applying for isn't consistent with previous experience . It answers the question: Why the choice to move from the Entertainment to Tech industry? Why go from a massive company to a start up? Why apply for a Marketing position when your previous role was in Sales? Answers to these questions reveal that one is being very deliberate about their career path.  The cover letter should show that you match what the company is looking for, and the company matches what you want in an employer.

The other important "why" in the cover letter is "why this company"? It is a huge bonus in the cover letter if there is any mention of geeking out on our technology, cultural tenets, or our mission. These candidates are the ones who understand, at least on a basic level, what we are building and why it is important, and are enthusiastic about it. This gives them an edge because our small start up runs on passion and thirst for knowledge—if you don't get excited about complex bleeding edge technology then you won't have nearly as much fun as everyone else.

So below are two cover letters to illustrate how a cover letter can be a total waste of everyone's time or instantly earn a call from a hiring manager. These are real cover letters submitted for the same role that I have edited to reveal no personal information.

1. The worst (and most common) cover letter

Dear Sir/Madam,

Please find my resume for the position of Executive Assistant. I am experienced in office administration, have excellent problem solving and time management skills. Additionally, I am highly organized and have been successful working in both individual and group settings.

I strongly believe that my educational experience, strong work ethic, customer service experience, communication skills and eagerness to learn will enable me to make a positive contribution to Gem.

I sincerely thank you for taking the time to review my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Candidate]

What's wrong with it?

• It could be for most any job, any company, any industry.
• It shows no personality, gives no context to experience, and does not distinguish this person as an individual.
• It is awfully long for saying nothing of substance.

How would I fix this cover letter?

When in doubt, always do short and specific instead of long and vague.

My revised version:

Hi Gem Team,

I'm an administrative professional for a VP at a large technology company looking to make a big impact in an emerging tech start up. As you can see from my resume, I have held a wide variety roles, and I see this position at Gem as an opportunity for me to embrace my passion for being an assistant while flexing many other muscles by event planning, office management, culture building, and more!

Looking forward to chatting further,

Why was this version better?

• The "why" they are applying is in the first sentence ( looking to make a bigger impact )
• It turns a potential negative ( this person's resume is all over the place with different types of roles...rejected! ) into a positive ( this person has a ton of skills and interests, perfect for a start up environment...get them on the phone! ).
• It references that the company they are applying for is a tech start up. This shows they are being deliberate about (or at least paying attention to) the companies they are applying to. This is a very low bar of expectation but many do not meet it! So many job seekers blast their resume out to dozens of companies without paying attention to where they are actually applying. Break out from the pack! Apply to fewer places and be more specific.
• It shows a touch of eagerness and entrepreneurial spirit that start ups thrive off of.
• It scrapped the formal, "Dear Sir/Madam" and "Sincerely" for a warmer, "Hi Gem Team" and "Looking forward to chatting further."
• It's shorter.

2. The best (and rarest) cover letter

Hi Madeline,

This is the second time I have applied to Gem because I am determined to become a part of your team. While my resume might come across as left-of-center, I have whittled away at it to reveal the pointed yet diverse experiences that make me uniquely qualified to be your Executive Assistant at Gem.

Currently, I assist my Executive Director (ED) as the liaison for a roster of several hundred executive-level contacts, one-fifth of whom work for healthcare institutions you may be familiar with via GemOS, such as [Company Name], [Company Name], and [Company Name]. With my partnership management acumen, I have the balance of left- and right-brain sensibilities to make a professional, personable gatekeeper and liaison for your leadership on a day-to-day basis.

Given my entrepreneurial and curious nature, I am constantly researching start-up technologies and their success stories (and failures) to improve workplace efficiency. Recently I implemented a project management software to assist the production of a statewide symposium. Ultimately, my research and organization system leveraged additional time to help my ED sell out tickets and close $115K in funding for the event ahead of schedule.

Since the last time I applied, I am even more enthusiastic to find that not only is Gem bringing an elegant technology to the fore, you have translated its immense potential into the field of healthcare data management. I am inspired by the opportunity to support Gem in this arena, as well as supply chain management, and bridge my enterprising and administrative capacities with a personal passion for wellness.

What stood out about this letter?

• They start out by showing great eagerness by announcing they have applied before. Without a cover letter, this candidate could appear that they are just constantly applying to EA roles, not taking note of which companies they are applying to. Instead, they show that they are deliberate and persistent—excellent!
• They show interest and expertise for the healthcare industry—an industry we work closely with. This suggests they have specialized knowledge and will likely find our work compelling.
• They reference improving workplace efficiency. This shows that they both take initiative to improve their workplace (right in line with our "Make it Happen" company value) and they seek out ways to learn and level up (in line with our "Seek Knowledge" value). Adding this paragraph shows that they understand the kind of person we are looking for.
• The closing paragraph reiterates specific interest in the company and the role (instead of stating something dry and generic).

The above cover letter is long, which is not essential to making a good impression, but long is good if the relevance of the information is high. Each sentence added something new to the identity of the candidate, whereas in the first example nearly every sentence was a throw away.

There is no universal truth when it comes to cover letters—it's a messy, nuanced, subjective topic. But if I could give you a heuristic to operate by it's:

• Write a cover letter if it is for a smaller company with a lower volume of hires. BUT...
• Do not write a cover letter unless you have something specific to say about yourself and/or the company.

Jobs at Gem

Los angeles startup guides.

How to Start a Cover Letter to Impress Employers [+ 14 Examples]

Published: August 11, 2021

According to Career Builder, 40% of recruiters look for a cover letter when they're considering job applicants.

But if you had to flip through a hundred cover letters a day, and each one began, "To whom it may concern, I am applying for the digital marketing position at your company ...", how important would you rank them?

Your cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your personality, display your interest in the job, and include relevant information that otherwise wouldn't be surfaced in your application. An ideal cover letter leaves the hiring manager with a positive and memorable impression of you, something a resume alone won't always do.

To help you overcome writer's block and hook your reader right away, take a look at some sharp opening sentences you can use for inspiration.

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Fill out this form to access your cover letters., creative cover letter opening sentence examples.

• This position has me written all over it.
• I've wanted to work in [your industry] since [this moment of inspiration].
• Although [current employee] suggested I apply for this position, I don't just want to work with my former colleague again -- I want to join all of you in transforming the industry.
• I like to think of myself as a round peg thriving in a square hole kind of world.
• Aside from the requisite industry bona-fides in my CV, I bring the following to the table:
• Last year, I generated [this much money] in revenue for my company, generated [this many leads], and almost tripled our social media ROI.
• You might not know me, but your client services team certainly does, and now I want to join the vendor that made me such a successful [type of professional].
• When I discovered [name of company] was hiring, I knew I had to apply.
• I considered submitting my latest credit card statement as proof of just how much I love online shopping, but I thought a safer approach might be writing this cover letter, describing all the reasons why I'm the person who can take [name of ecommerce company] to the next level.
• You might compete with my current employer, but why can't we be friends?
• As a [current job position] with high-level management experience in the [industry], I learned that the best way to achieve success was to [biggest lesson you've learned].
• I understand that you have been deluged with resumes since you've been listed as one of the best companies to work for. Mine is one more, but I do have experience that is hard to come by.

Read on to find out 14 ways to grab an employer's attention with an exceptional cover letter introduction.

Featured Resource: 5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Start off your cover letter (and finish it) with a bang with 5 Free Cover Letter Templates. The templates are professional and completely customizable to help you get your dream job. 

How to Start a Cover Letter

1. start with humor..

Employers are humans too, and they'll often appreciate a good joke, pun, or funny opening line as much as the next person. If done tastefully and respectfully, starting your cover letter off with a joke can be an excellent way to stand out.

Plus, a joke can still include a powerful explanation for why you're the right person for the job, without coming off as boastful. For instance, think about something you love to do or something you're really good at, and then imagine how friends or family might make a joke about it -- if you're really good at analyzing data, for example, a joke or pun related to that might be a good way to exemplify both your skills and personality.

Here's a good example of using humor to bring attention to your skills, from The Muse  (you'll notice this is one of our picks for most creative opening lines, earlier in this article):

"I considered submitting my latest credit card statement as proof of just how much I love online shopping, but I thought a safer approach might be writing this cover letter, describing all the reasons why I'm the girl who can take Stylight's business to the next level."

Why This Works

Right away, the personality displayed here grabs the reader's attention. Even better, this applicant uses humor to convey an important message to the employer -- she loves shopping, and she's well-versed in ecommerce as a consumer -- which might've otherwise not come up on her resume or phone screening.

2. Start with passion.

For an employer to know you'll stay dedicated to the role and company, they'll want to ensure you're passionate about what the job entails. Passion is more incentivizing than a paycheck.

For an employer, demonstrating how your passion matches the required skillset is a promising sign that you'd enjoy your job -- if you enjoy your job, you're more likely to stick around longer, help drive company growth, and become a dedicated member of the team.

Consider starting your cover letter templates with a few lines that showcase your passion: "I've been passionate about writing since I was ten years old. My love for writing has led me to write two personal travel blogs, get published in a local newspaper, and pursue two summer internships at publishing firms. Now, I'd love the opportunity to combine my writing skills with my interest in storytelling as a content marketer at Company A."

If you don't have extensive work experience in the industry you're trying to break into, but you've been unofficially preparing for years, let the employer know. In the above example, the candidate's resume would probably look weak, with only internships indicating professional experience. Her cover letter introduction, however, shows the employer she's been writing for audiences and advancing her natural ability for years.

3. Start with an accomplishment.

Employers like seeing numbers. It isn't enough to mention you're a "digital marketer with proven success in SEO strategies." Proven success? Okay, can we see?

It's more powerful to provide statistics. You want to show the employer you're capable of solving for long-term results. How have you contributed to your company's bottom line? For instance, did your Facebook marketing campaign grow your social media following, or has your blog content increased organic traffic?

Consider starting your cover letter with something like this: "Over the past year as digital marketing manager at Company A, I've generated $30k+ in revenue, increased organic traffic to our blog by 14%, and almost tripled our social media ROI."

Even if you don't have the work experience to report impressive numbers, you can still offer proof when opening with an accomplishment. Think about the qualitative feedback you've received from employers. For instance, how would your boss compliment you or tell you you're doing a good job? An accomplishment can be as simple as your boss sending you an appreciative email regarding your diligent meeting notes.

In this example from The Muse , the applicant provides an example of a skill for which he's been previously acknowledged: "My last boss once told me that my phone manner could probably diffuse an international hostage situation. I've always had a knack for communicating with people -- the easygoing and the difficult alike -- and I'd love to bring that skill to the office manager position at Shutterstock."

Even though the applicant doesn't offer numbers as proof of success, they do manage to highlight some proof of their past performance in the form of a former boss's praise. The candidate's candid and funny explanation -- that his last boss liked his phone manners -- is another good way to brag about accomplishments without, well, bragging.

4. Start with excitement for the company.

Employers want to know why you like their company, and they'll appreciate an explanation on why you're interested. But it's imperative your reasoning is thoughtful and considerate, and specific to the company. For instance, if you're applying for a financial position, don't write about your interest in finance; write about how your interest in finance relates to the company's goals.

You don't want to just say, "I'm excited to work at Company A because I'm passionate about finance, and I think my skills and experiences will be a good match." Sure, you've explained why you want to work in the financial industry, but you've done nothing to explain why Company A specifically suits your interests.

Instead, you'll want to mention something about the company and culture in correlation to your interest in finance. Take a look at this example from Glassdoor : "When I discovered Accounting Solutions was hiring, I knew I had to apply. I've been waiting to find a company where I feel like I can make a difference while working as an accountant. Not only are your clients awesome, but the overall mission of your company is something I believe in, too."

This candidate shows they've done their research and care about Accounting Solutions in particular. Remember, employers want to hire people who have a demonstrated interest in working at their company. They want someone who will enjoy the nature of the work, but just as importantly, they want a candidate who enjoys the work culture and the company mission as well.

5. Start with news about the company.

Mentioning company news in your introduction indicates you've done research on the company. Plus, including company news might give you the chance to incorporate your own values, as well. If the company just won an award for its innovative solutions in the computer industry, for instance, you might add how you value forward-thinking methods in technology, as well.

Here's an example of an introduction that uses a newsworthy event, from Indeed : "When I saw that Company ABC was featured in Fortune Magazine last month for its commitment to renewable energy and reducing waste in the workplace -- all while experiencing triple-digit revenue growth -- I was inspired. With my track record of reducing costs by 30%+ and promoting greener workplaces, I'm excited about the possibility of taking on the account executive role to expand your company's growth and work towards a more sustainable future."

The candidate does a good job demonstrating how Company ABC's news aligns well with the candidate's personal achievements. She shows she's done her research on the company, and also indicates she values similar environmental efforts in the workplace.

6. Start with what they don't know.

According to one seasoned hiring manager , a cover letter that begins, "I am writing to apply for [open position] at [name of company]" is grounds for nearly instant rejection. Of course you're applying for this job -- why waste your lede with something so boring and obvious?

Your cover letter should never directly state what they already know -- or restate what's already listed on your resume. Instead, start your cover letter by offering something new, expanding on what the employer already knows about you, and presenting new details about what you can bring to the company. Impress employers by telling them something about your skills or experiences they don't already know.

To offer new information not displayed on his resume, one of my colleagues at HubSpot wrote this cover letter introduction: "My resume will tell you I'm Content Marketing Certified. Your records will tell you I've interviewed for a few different HubSpot positions in the past. What neither one will tell you is that I've been working with your customer success team to build a new campaign strategy for my company -- one of your latest (and largest) clients."

The candidate wrote an introduction that captured the reader's attention and demonstrated he wasn't interested in wasting anyone's time. This is a memorable and impressive tactic. Consider writing a similar introduction, where you provide information absent from your resume, or even writing a letter of introduction instead of your typical cover letter.

7. Start with what you can bring to the table.

A hiring manager here at HubSpot told me she always looks for cover letters to tell her how the company and applicant can benefit each other.

Any employer is going to want to know why you think you can grow from the position you're applying to. An employer is more inclined to hire you if she thinks you have a genuine, intrinsic motivation to work hard in the role.

A hiring manager is also going to want to know how you'll contribute to the company's larger vision and goals. It's important for the manager to know what you want to get out of the role, but it's equally important to know how you'll help the company grow. How will the company benefit from you, over someone else?

Here's an example: "I am seeking opportunities to improve my writing ability in a forward-thinking environment while growing organic traffic and optimizing content to beat out competitors in search engines. At Company A, I believe I will find that match."

See how it works? In the example above, the candidate explained how she'd benefit from the role. She also explained what Company A could get out of the transaction -- increased organic traffic, and optimized content -- so the hiring manager is informed of the equality of the potential relationship.

8. Start with a statement that surprises them.

When applying for a role at HubSpot, one of my colleagues began her cover letter like this: "I like to think of myself as a round peg thriving in a square hole kind of world."

Doesn't that make you want to keep reading? It certainly kept me interested. Of course, you'll only want to include a bold statement if you can follow it up with some concrete supporting information. My colleague, for example, continued by writing this: "What does this mean? It means that my diverse background makes me a well-rounded candidate who is able to comprehend, develop and execute various functions in business."

While the rest of her cover letter veered on the side of professional, her opening line was casual, quirky, and surprising. Plus, you feel her personality in the line, and when an employer feels like a real person is behind the cover letter, she's going to want to keep reading.

9. Start with a lesson you've learned in your career.

A great way to start a cover letter is with a lesson you've learned in your industry from your experience.

For example, you might say something like, " As a [current job position] with high-level management experience in the [industry], I learned that the best way to achieve success was to [biggest lesson you've learned]."

This opening sentence lets a recruiter know your experience level. Not only that, but it starts off with how you can benefit the company, not how the company will benefit you.

10. Start off with intrigue.

When you're applying to larger corporate companies, you know that recruiters are getting hundreds of applicants for one entry-level position.

It's important to intrigue the hiring manager and recognize that they're looking at several applicants.

For example, you could say, " I understand that you have been deluged with resumes since you've been listed as one of the best companies to work for. Mine is one more, but I do have experience that is hard to come by."

After this, it'd be great to list examples, stats, and experience that set you apart from other candidates and will benefit the company.

Recruiters see countless resumes and cover letters every day. It's important to start your cover letter in a unique way so you can stand out amongst the crowd.

11. Start with a mutual connection. 

If an internal employee suggested you apply for a role at their company, don't be shy about highlighting that fact. Hiring Managers will want to see that you've been vetted — even informally — by someone else at the company. Recognizing the name of someone they know internally will likely persuade them to give you another look. 

To do this tactfully, start with something like this: "At the suggestion of my old colleague Jane Smith, I am submitting my resume for your consideration for the senior copywriter position. Jane's knowledge and enthusiasm for Company X further convinced me that this is a company where my communication skills, passion for travel, and desire to be challenged can be met."

Why This Works 

When the hiring manager sees a fellow employee can attest to your work ethic, it helps assuage any risk she might feel she's taking by hiring someone she doesn't know personally. Plus, it shows you've done your research and you're truly interested in the company itself — rather than sending off a slew of generic cover letters, you took the time to identify an internal connection.

12. Begin with your personal mission statement. 

Don't have a personal mission statement? You might want to take some time to create one . A good mission statement can help hiring managers understand why you're passionate about what you do — which goes a long way towards ensuring you'll work hard in your next role. 

A few examples on how you might start a cover letter with a personal mission statement look like this: "As a content creator, I believe inspiring readers through creative, persuasive copywriting is vital for helping them excel professionally."

Or: "As a leader, I believe encouraging innovation and creativity is critical for ensuring my employees can do their best work and improve the lives of our customers."

A manager can help you level up on certain key skills, but she can't teach you to love your job. By demonstrating an intrinsic motivation, you're essentially telling the hiring manager, "I know the importance of this role — so I won't slack off on it."

Editor's note: This post was originally published in May 2018 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

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How to write your finance CV & cover letter for tech startup jobs

Published on August 10, 2020

Even during a global pandemic, the tech industry has continued to boom. Limitations in manufacturing and shipping have been offset by the widespread adoption of SaaS tools and general investment in home office setups.

New businesses have launched at a steady pace, with digital connectivity making it easy for them to grow without traditional offices.

So it makes sense for jobseekers to look for tech roles during a time of such economic uncertainty — particularly if that role involves finance. Modern tech companies will always need help managing spend and forecasting revenue .

Each position in any given industry poses distinct challenges, though, not least during the hiring process. If you want to secure a financial role with a promising tech startup, you’ll need to put in the time and effort to cater your CV and cover letter accordingly. This post will cover some key tips for helping you achieve this.

Let’s get started.

1. Highlight your meaningful financial experience

Perhaps you’ve worked in a financial role before, or in a non-financial role for a business that operates in the finance industry. If so, you should obviously focus on that experience in your CV.

Risk aversion is one of the biggest factors behind the hiring process, not least when dealing with financial positions. So a directly-relevant work history will make you a safer choice. (This even goes for unpaid positions or temporary employment, so don’t discard those things.)

That said, you shouldn’t stop there . And even if you have no such history, you may well still have some meaningful financial experience if you know how to frame it.

You may have needed to devise smart payment solutions, negotiate deals of reasonable monetary value, or handle profitability calculations.

This is a time of entrepreneurship, after all, with those looking to develop their business skills having the option of turning to online options like monetized content creation or e-commerce.

If you’ve earned any income through a blog or a YouTube channel, explain the key decisions. How did you keep your costs down ? How did you choose which audience to target?

These decisions are sure to be pertinent for a tech startup, as it’ll inevitably need a fleshed-out content marketing strategy as it seeks to grow financially and establish its brand.

If you’ve run your own online store, that alone can provide a rich seam of material worth including in your CV. What business model did you choose, and why?

Maybe you picked dropshipping because it’s cheap, low-risk, and easy to run in your spare time. Perhaps you went in the opposite direction and built a subscription box service , attempting to slowly earn customer loyalty and build up ongoing revenue.

Any route has an explanation, and explaining will neatly show just how well you understand business finance — regardless of your level of success.

2. Explain the meaning of your academic accomplishments

Academic accomplishments are important, certainly, and that applies regardless of grade inflation or how common they are. They show that you’re disciplined, dedicated, and capable of strong reasoning .

But they’re situationally significant, and often acknowledged early on before being swiftly forgotten. In short, they won’t win you any job offers . So what should you do?

Well, you need to explain what they mean in a real-world context. For example, suppose you were the leader of your school’s debating team. If so, you could focus on how that experience informed and developed your ability to communicate with people from different backgrounds to neatly convey the core thrusts of complex arguments (two skills that hold a lot of value in the financial world).

Additionally, you should look past your formal education to codify your subsequent informal accomplishments. It doesn’t really matter if you haven’t passed a specific training course for relevant productivity tools such as Notion, Asana, or Salesforce — if you know how to use them and have repeatedly demonstrated as much, then explain the details and stand behind your expertise .

In other words, if you’re proficient with a high-value tool, be bold about stating it .

3. Show that you can gel with the company culture

Company culture is something that many people prefer to disregard, thinking it inconsequential or "made up." And some startups think of finance and admin roles as being culture-adjacent. Finance is just there to support other teams - it doesn't matter if you're not a fit.

Which is all the more reason to surprise them in your cover letter ! As you're writing, keep a few things in mind:

Tech startup founders have lofty aspirations. In addition to yielding profit, they want to have fun and surround themselves with people they like. Even if you can make all the sums add up, you still need to come across as good to have around.

Brand perception is extremely important. These days, every company is under immense pressure (from the online world) to operate in a laudable way, and employees can be subject to a lot of scrutiny. If it feels like a new hire doesn’t meet the stated values of the business, it can cause serious brand damage.

Fitting in is part of being a professional. Company culture isn’t necessarily about assembling a group of people with identical interests and passions. Instead, it’s about bringing professionals together to pursue shared goals, and every professional should be able to successfully cooperate with others — even those different from them.

Financial professionals can feel somewhat removed from their colleagues, but they don’t need to be, and it’s better for a business if its various departments remain in close contact.

Make reference to the values of the tech startup you’re applying to, and explain how you can help the company develop. This will seriously strengthen your case. And at the very least, it shows you know how important culture is  to them.

4. Demonstrate a strong understanding of industry trends

The digital world moves swiftly and consistently, with every business feverishly looking to the next big operational method, marketing tactic, productivity tool, or industry powerhouse. You can be on top of everything, take a month off, and return to discover that the ground has shifted beneath you

This means that possessing current knowledge is essential .

As you talk about your experience, ensure that you put sufficient emphasis on what you’re doing at the moment to stay sharp and advance your skills. Are you spending an hour each day reading through the latest industry blog posts? Steadily honing your home office to raise your productivity in an era of remote working ? Testing new applications to see what they can offer?

In addition, you should also make it clear that you understand how the company you’re applying with currently fits into its industry niche. How has it changed recently? What are its main competitors doing? Most importantly, what would you do to outperform them ?

Don’t go into exhaustive detail. Instead, simply note that you have ideas for how to proceed.

Today's startup finance roles require an interesting mix of clear experience (if you have it), and the willingness to go beyond the status quo. Show clear room for the growth (both your own and the company's), and you'll demonstrate this mix.

Leslie Boudreaux of BVOH: What growing companies want from CFOs and finance hires

Include everything needed to get through ATS screening

ATS screening ( Applicant Tracking System ) is a tricky yet omnipresent part of today’s digital hiring process. Most employers receive so many applications that they have neither the time nor the inclination to manually review them all, so they deploy ATS technology to parse the applications, screen those not meeting basic criteria, and extract the most pertinent elements to provide useful at-a-glance outlines.

Tech startups aren’t necessarily more likely to prefer using ATS screening, but they are more likely to know of their existence and have the expertise to implement them in custom ways. This means there’s a strong chance that you’ll encounter them in your job search, so you need to plan ahead and give yourself the best possible chance of getting through.

Here are some key tips for getting your CV and cover letter ready to pass through ATS screening and actually read by relevant people:

Use standard structuring and formatting. The fastest way to get a CV thrown out is to submit a file format or page layout that isn’t supported. Pay close attention to the description of the application process, as it will clearly state all supported formats. Note that there are various online services which can give you feedback on how well your CV is optimized for ATS screening, so it may be worth using such a service.

Match your phrasing to the job description. Take a look at the job listing to see how things are phrased, then tweak your CV to ensure that it uses similar terminology. There’s an excellent chance that any ATS tech being used will focus on terms and keywords defined by the company.  If you see consistent mention of “fiscal management”, for instance, then there’s surely value in working it into your CV.

Remove all the filler from your CV. You may be very proud of how highly you placed in a school sporting competition, but it’s pretty likely that your prospective employer isn’t going to care about it — and it’s possible for CVs to be screened because they touch upon irrelevant topics or include generic claims. If you want to get more abstract with your pitch, you can use your cover letter . Keep your CV as succinct as possible.

ATS isn't going away any time soon, so it pays to get into the habit of considering it as you file more and more applications.

The tech industry is always in dire need of smart financial management, so there’s a lot of room for new hires — but you need to know how to present your candidacy in the best possible light. Thankfully, following the tips we’ve looked at here will help.

Perhaps most importantly, remember that startups are generally one person's (or a few people's) brainchild. They genuinely love their company, and believe it's essential in the world.

They want to see the same passion and belief in every prospective hire. So tick the boxes — yes — but also strive to make your finance CV and cover letter that extra bit special.

Give it a try — and good luck!

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Innovative Cover Letter Strategies for 2024

Published: Mar 22, 2024

The importance of leveraging innovative cover letter strategies can't be overstated. With the job market evolving rapidly, technology continuing to reshape recruitment processes, and competition growing fiercer by the day, students and professionals must adapt their approaches to cover letter writing to remain relevant and impactful.

Below, you'll find various inventive techniques for approaching cover letters that will effectively showcase your skills, experiences, and unique value propositions to prospective employers.

Understanding ATS

First, it’s important to understand what Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are and how they’re used. The main goal of ATS is to streamline recruitment by scanning resumes and cover letters for relevant keywords and qualifications. So, to optimize your application’s chances getting noticed, you need to tailor your cover letter to align with ATS requirements. That involves incorporating industry-specific terms and highlighting relevant skills and experiences.

It’s also important to proper format your cover letters and make their content as clear as possible, which will improve readability for ATS (and for hiring managers). So, opt for a clean, easy-to-read layout that makes your content stand out. Use a standard font style and size, such as Arial or Times New Roman, to ensure readability across different devices and platforms. Next, maintain consistent formatting throughout your cover letter, including margins, spacing, and alignment. You can also use bullet points to highlight key achievements or qualifications for quick reference.

Personalizing and Customizing

Personalizing and customizing your cover letters significantly enhance your job application. Just like  you would tailor your resume to fit a specific job description, your cover letter should also be customized for each application. One way to do this is to address hiring managers by name and reference specific details about the company or the job position. This demonstrates your genuine interest and attention to detail. Also, consider mentioning recent company achievements, projects, or values that resonate with you. In addition, provide concrete examples, showcasing how your skills and experiences align with the job requirements. Finally, make sure to express your enthusiasm for this specific role.

Storytelling

Embracing a storytelling approach in your cover letter can elevate your job application to new heights. By weaving a narrative that showcases your professional journey and accomplishments, you engage hiring managers on a deeper level. Sharing anecdotes that highlight your skills, challenges, and significant achievements ill attract their attention and create a memorable impression.

Storytelling also allows you to compellingly convey your passion and enthusiasm for the role. And crafting a narrative-driven cover letter makes you more relatable and demonstrates your communication skills. Finally, sharing stories about your experiences can provide talking points for a successful future interview , helping you articulate your qualifications more effectively.

Highlighting Achievements

Effectively showcasing your achievements and accomplishments in your cover letter can significantly boost your chances of landing the job. Highlighting quantifiable accomplishments demonstrates your tangible contributions and value to potential employers. So, strive to include specific examples and metrics to illustrate the impact of your work, such as increasing sales revenue by a certain percentage or completing projects ahead of schedule. Emphasizing your successful track record will capture hiring managers' attention and differentiate yourself from other candidates. Moreover, showcasing your achievements reinforces your credibility and suitability for the role.

Adding Multimedia Elements

Exploring the integration of multimedia elements into your cover letter can provide a unique edge in today's competitive job market. For example, consider incorporating links to your online portfolio or online videos that showcase your skills or achievements. However, you must ensure compatibility and professionalism when multimedia is included in your application. So, opt for formats that are widely accessible and easily viewed across different devices and platforms.

Demonstrating Industry Knowledge

Demonstrating industry knowledge in your cover letter is a great way to show potential employers that you’re informed and engaged. So, stay up to date on the latest trends, developments, and challenges in your field by regularly reading industry publications and following relevant blogs or forums. If it makes sense to, you might include specific examples of industry insights or trends in your cover letter, showcasing your understanding of the industry or role. You might also want to highlight any relevant certifications, courses, or workshops you've completed to demonstrate your commitment to staying informed. Finally, you could discuss how your knowledge can benefit the company, whether it’s by offering innovative solutions or adapting quickly to industry changes.

Aurora Nightly is an accomplished HR manager and hiring specialist with over a decade of experience in talent acquisition. She currently works for Here & Now Movers Maryland . This moving company is dedicated to helping people relocate smoothly by providing excellent moving, packing, junk removal, labor only, and even storage services. With a keen eye for identifying top-tier candidates and a passion for fostering inclusive workplaces, Aurora has been instrumental in shaping the recruitment strategies of this moving company.

Stripe’s growth continues to impress as total payment volume tops $1 trillion

The payments infrastructure company says it's ‘robustly cash flow positive’.

Stripe’s annual letter provides the outline of a business that is healthy and growing. Stripe is sufficiently large that when we consider its growth, we have to weigh it against the overall growth in the payment space more generally. By that measure, the company is outperforming its market.

Major growth points

Stripe notes that it crossed the $1 trillion total payment volume metric in 2023, a figure that is large and round, if imprecise. Certainly the threshold is notable, but when paired with recent growth figures, it becomes all the more impressive. In 2023, its payment volume rose 25%, according to the letter. If the company did in fact process precisely $1 trillion last year, it would imply $800 billion in 2022 processing, and gains of $200 billion worth of TPV in a single year. At Stripe’s size, it’s quite a result.

Stripe’s fee structure starts at 2.9% with an added 30-cent charge for domestic card-based transactions. This implies that even when accounting for volume discounts, its added payment volume last year equaled massive new revenues for the private company.

Those revenues are translating into cash flow, an all-important metric for investors. The company says in the letter that it was “robustly cash flow positive in 2023 and expects to be again in 2024,” which means it likely doesn’t need to raise more capital before it goes public. That may be part of the reason why it is not pursuing a near-term IPO: Public offerings are fundraising mechanisms, and Stripe is currently kicking off cash.

Two other data points stood out.

There are now 100 companies that use its service that are processing $1 billion or more per year with Stripe. Those companies make up about 10% of its total payment volume, implying some customer concentration — a concern for some investors, although it doesn’t trip our risk radar — but more importantly it means that Stripe is managing to hold on to large accounts over time. Any company processing that much total payment volume through Stripe could decide to build an in-house stack or pursue a more DIY option. The fact that so many big accounts are sticking with Stripe, though, shows that customers will not necessarily “graduate” from its offered payment services. This bodes well for future growth and revenue stability.

Also, the offerings that fall into its “Revenue and Finance Automation” bucket are expected to reach a $500 million annual run rate this year — those are tools that help businesses manage billing, tax and revenue recognition. That run rate would be sufficient for that business unit to be a publicly traded company in its own right. This gives Stripe not only a massive scaled operation on the payments side, but also a software story to tell apart from that core operation. Revenue diversity that unlocks quickly growing, potentially high-margin revenue is investor catnip. Expect that theme to arise when Stripe eventually files to go public.

Fintech giant Stripe is getting into the credit game

Surprising startup success

We continue to see venture capital funding at its lowest levels . However, Stripe says that’s not deterring people from creating new companies. It actually saw record startup formation in 2023. The U.S. is leading there, but there have also been strides in Canada, the Netherlands and Sweden, according to the company.

These startups are finding success even without VC backing. For example, Stripe says that startups founded in 2022 (the most recent full year of data it had) were 60% more likely to start collecting revenue within their first year, while 57% were more likely to process $1 million within their first year than those founded in 2019.

That’s pretty impressive considering 2023 started with some folks saying that predictors for startup success in that year were going to come down to more frequently reevaluating budgets and plans and a path to break-even.

Stripe also toots its own horn when it notes that one in six new Delaware corporations incorporates with Stripe Atlas. Among those, more than 50,000 were working toward earning $5 billion a year in revenue.

Fintech giant Stripe’s valuation spikes to $65B in employee stock-sale deal

Overall, it’s been an interesting year for Stripe, now valued at $65 billion. As much as we are anticipating a Stripe initial public offering soon, that’s not likely to come for at least another year.

It made a rather unorthodox acquisition of Okay , a startup that developed a low-code analytics software to help engineering leaders better understand how their teams are performing. Of which, TechCrunch’s Mary Ann Azevedo wrote, “Stripe deciding to acquire a startup that helps engineering leaders build performance dashboards to gauge how their teams are doing feels like the company is very serious about making sure its own engineering team is working effectively enough to not only move faster, but also be more productive.”

“Relationship” was also a big theme throughout the letter. The company provides ample examples of how it continues to roll out services to help companies build closer relationships with their customers and improve the overall payments experience.

In addition, Stripe continues to say that the company is still early in its journey. It aims “to be the most reliable part of a business’s stack.” That is a lofty goal, but its growth so far indicates that customers are finding that it’s sufficiently executing on that goal.

Deal Dive: A Stripe secondary deal worth paying attention to

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What We Know About Trump’s Quest for a Half-Billion-Dollar Bond

Donald J. Trump failed to arrange a bond to halt collection of a $454 million judgment. The New York attorney general might begin to collect very soon.

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By Kate Christobek and Ben Protess

Here’s the latest on Trump’s bond in the N.Y. civil fraud case .

Donald J. Trump is running out of time to stave off a financial crisis.

The former president is racing to secure an appeal bond for roughly half a billion dollars in his civil fraud case in New York, but has so far failed.

If he cannot, the New York attorney general’s office, which brought the fraud case, could begin to collect. The attorney general, Letitia James, could have enforced the judgment last month, but provided Mr. Trump a 30-day grace period that expires on Monday.

Ms. James might start slowly. She could even wait for an appeals court to decide whether to pause the judgment, a decision that could come as soon as this week.

But if she wanted to take a more aggressive stance, Ms. James could freeze some of Mr. Trump’s bank accounts, which might send the Trump family business into a tailspin.

She could also seek to seize some of his New York properties, and public records show that Ms. James has formally posted the judgment in Westchester County, a preliminary step toward staking a claim to Mr. Trump’s private estate and golf club there.

In recent days, The New York Times has received many questions about Mr. Trump’s financial woes. Here are answers to several:

What was Trump accused of?

Ms. James took Mr. Trump, his company and his adult sons to trial last fall, accusing them of fraudulently inflating the value of golf clubs, office buildings and other properties to the tune of about $2 billion.

Mr. Trump exaggerated the property values, and in turn his own net worth, to obtain favorable terms from banks and insurers, according to Ms. James.

At the trial, which lasted months, Ms. James’s lawyers argued that Mr. Trump’s company had ignored appraisals and manipulated numbers to sometimes absurd degrees.

The judge overseeing the case — there was no jury — ruled in favor of Ms. James.

How was he punished?

The judge, Arthur F. Engoron, came down hard on Mr. Trump, imposing a judgment of $355 million plus interest, amounting to $454 million.

The judge also imposed penalties that could curb Mr. Trump’s influence over his family business, barring him from serving as a top executive at a New York company for three years.

Can he appeal?

Yes. Mr. Trump is appealing Justice Engoron’s punishments, and has asked a higher court, the Appellate Division in Manhattan, to pause the financial judgment. If the appeals court denies that, he might ask the state’s highest court, the Court of Appeals in Albany.

Although he does not have to pay Ms. James’s office the $454 million while he appeals, he must either cut a check to the New York State court system for the full amount, or, more likely, obtain a bond.

What is an appeal bond?

An appeal bond is a document in which a company guarantees the $454 million judgment, plus interest, should Mr. Trump lose his appeal and fail to pay.

Mr. Trump would need to pledge significant collateral to a bond company — about $557 million, his lawyers said — including as much cash as possible, as well as stocks and bonds he could sell quickly.

He would also owe the bond company a fee that could amount to nearly $20 million.

Does he have enough cash to obtain one?

Short answer: No.

A recent New York Times analysis found that Mr. Trump had more than $350 million in cash as well as stocks and bonds, far short of what he would need in collateral for the bond.

In a court filing March 18, Mr. Trump’s lawyers said they had contacted more than 30 bond companies, and none had agreed to a deal.

But I thought he was a billionaire?

While Mr. Trump has long bragged about his wealth, his true financial position remains something of a mystery. Most of his fortune is tied up in real estate holdings, which bond companies don’t typically accept as collateral.

He also has less liquid collateral available today than he did even a few weeks ago. Mr. Trump this month had to post a $91.6 million bond in the defamation case he lost to E. Jean Carroll. For that, he most likely had to pledge more than $100 million in collateral to Chubb, the insurance company that provided guarantee. That money cannot be used as collateral for a second bond.

What is the deadline for the appeal bond?

There is no formal deadline. She offered the 30-day grace period and now may wait for the appeals court to weigh in on whether to pause the judgment.

How could Ms. James collect?

It could get ugly for Mr. Trump.

Ms. James could start by merely issuing a list of properties and accounts she is eyeing, or sending subpoenas to locate assets. Or she could move swiftly to freeze and ultimately seize his assets.

If she opted for the more aggressive path, Ms. James could send so-called restraining notices to Mr. Trump’s banks and brokerage firms, effectively freezing his accounts.

It’s a powerful weapon, legal experts said. She can send the notices on her own, without needing a judge to bless them.

To then collect, Ms. James can ask a judge to grant her an order directing the banks to hand over his assets to the state.

“The low-hanging fruit for the state to enforce the judgment in this case is to issue restraining notices to banks,” said Daniel W. Levy, a former federal prosecutor who is now a lawyer at McKool Smith in New York, where he has represented creditors in judgment proceedings.

What about seizing his properties?

Easier said than done.

Mr. Trump does not directly own his properties — in general, they are owned by corporate entities that he controls — and Ms. James would have to fight in court to pierce those layers. Even if Ms. James could take control and force a sale, Mr. Trump’s lenders would be first in line to collect.

The most sensible option, legal experts said, would be for Ms. James to pursue New York properties — specifically the buildings directly owned by a corporate entity that was a defendant in Ms. James’s case. That would include Mr. Trump’s Seven Springs estate in Westchester.

If she took control of the property, she could instruct a local sheriff to auction it.

She might also try to seize some of Mr. Trump’s marquee Florida properties, including his Doral golf resort, which was a defendant.

And she has threatened to take aim at his office tower on Wall Street in Lower Manhattan. But Mr. Trump does not actually own it: Instead, he effectively controls the property and pays rent to the owner.

Trump Tower also poses a challenge, because it was not a defendant, nor is it directly owned by one.

The legal experts cautioned that actually seizing any property through the courts could take significant time without a guarantee of a huge payoff.

But should Mr. Trump win delays, they could cost him. Under New York law, he must continue to pay 9 percent interest on the judgment.

Can she throw him in jail?

Although Ms. James can’t jail Mr. Trump — it is a civil case, not a criminal one — Justice Engoron could issue an arrest warrant if Mr. Trump repeatedly flouts court orders. That, however, is unlikely to happen.

What other options does Trump have?

Mr. Trump could quickly sell a property or another asset, or seek a supporter’s help. He might also try to obtain a loan from a bank, hedge fund or private equity firm that he could then post as collateral. The attorney general has suggested that Mr. Trump could pledge his properties to the court.

And his net worth could soon leap when shares of his social media company start trading on the stock market as soon as Monday. His stake is valued at roughly $3 billion. Although he is prohibited from selling shares for six months, Mr. Trump could find ways around that restriction that enable him to raise cash for the bond.

If all else fails, he could have the corporate entities implicated in the case file for bankruptcy, which would automatically halt judgments against them. Ms. James’s penalty against Mr. Trump himself would continue to be in force, and she would most likely seek to hold him accountable for his company’s debts.

Could Trump use campaign money to pay?

Probably not.

A super PAC supporting Mr. Trump’s candidacy can raise unlimited amounts, but it is banned from coordinating with him and cannot pay the judgment.

And although the former president has used a political action committee under his control to pay for lawyers and witnesses in his legal cases, that group lacks the money to address the $454 million penalty.

What else is happening Monday?

Mr. Trump has a crucial hearing in his Manhattan criminal case, which could be the first prosecution of a former American president.

The district attorney, Alvin L. Bragg, has accused Mr. Trump of covering up a sex scandal involving a porn star to bolster his 2016 presidential campaign.

Jury selection was originally scheduled to start on March 25, but the trial was delayed late last week after the disclosure of more than 100,000 pages of records that had been in the possession of the federal prosecutors

Justice Juan M. Merchan set the hearing to determine whether the new tentative trial date of April 15 should hold, and to rule on Mr. Trump’s motion for an outright dismissal.

The Manhattan case is among four prosecutions Mr. Trump faces.

Ben Protess is an investigative reporter at The Times, writing about public corruption. He has been covering the various criminal investigations into former President Trump and his allies. More about Ben Protess

Trump has been unable to get bond for $464 million judgment, his lawyers say

Former President Donald Trump has not been able to get a bond to secure the $464 million civil fraud judgment against him and his co-defendants, his lawyers said in a court filing Monday.

Trump and his company need to post a bond for the full amount by next week in order to stop New York Attorney General Letitia James from being able to collect while he appeals . They've asked an appeals court to step in in the meantime and said Monday that they have not had any success getting a bond.

"Defendants’ ongoing diligent efforts have proven that a bond in the judgment’s full amount is 'a practical impossibility,'" the filing said. "These diligent efforts have included approaching about 30 surety companies through 4 separate brokers."

Their efforts, including “countless hours negotiating with one of the largest insurance companies in the world,” have proven that “obtaining an appeal bond in the full amount” of the judgment “is not possible under the circumstances presented,” the filing said.

The other bond companies will not “accept hard assets such as real estate as collateral,” but “will only accept cash or cash equivalents (such as marketable securities),” the filing said. The lawyers also noted those companies typically “require collateral of approximately 120% of the amount of the judgment” — which would total about $557 million.

"In addition, sureties would likely charge bond premiums of approximately 2 percent per year with two years in advance—an upfront cost over $18 million," the filing said. That $18 million would not be recoverable even if Trump wins his appeal.

In all, the filing said, the "actual amount of cash or cash equivalents required 'to collateralize the bond and have sufficient capital to run the business and satisfy its other obligations' approach[es] $1 billion."

While the filing says Trump can't afford the bond, it also argues that the attorney general doesn't have to worry about being able to collect her judgment.

"Defendants’ real estate holdings — including iconic properties like 40 Wall Street, Doral Miami, and Mar-a-Lago, — greatly exceed the amount of the judgment. Such assets are impossible to secrete or dispose of surreptitiously, leaving the plaintiff effectively secured during the pendency of an appeal," the filing said.

Trump's team also argued the $464 million penalty is "grossly disproportional" and cited the argument they made throughout the monthslong trial that "there are no victims, as there were no damages and no financial losses." 

In a filing last month, Trump's lawyers asked that the bond amount be reduced to $100 million, but Monday's filing argues he shouldn't have to put up any bond at all.

James' office has argued that Trump should put up the full amount.

A 30-day automatic stay of the judgment handed down by Judge Arthur Engoron is set to expire March 25, at which point James would be clear to start seizing Trump's assets unless the appeals court steps in.

James would not need an additional court order to start collecting in New York, where Trump has his company and a large number of real estate assets, but those efforts could be complicated by any mortgages or debts he has on those properties. It’s unclear what properties or assets James might look to seize.

Steven Cheung, a spokesman for Trump's campaign, said in a statement that the judgment is "unjust, unconstitutional" and "un-American."

"A bond of this size would be an abuse of the law," he said.

Trump asked that if the state Appellate Division denies his request, the judges enter a temporary stay so he can try to make his case to the state's highest court, the Court of Appeals.

Engoron handed down his judgment last month after finding Trump and his company had repeatedly committed fraud by overinflating personal financial statements that he used to secure bank loans and insurance policies. James' office said there were years when Trump's assets were overvalued by more than $2 billion.

Trump maintained he did nothing wrong and testified that, if anything, his properties were undervalued.

The judge hit Trump and his co-defendants with a judgment saying they had to pay over $350 million — an amount that ballooned to $464 million with pre-judgment interest. Of that amount on the date the judgment was entered, the vast majority, or about $454 million, was against Trump and his companies.

That amount has grown since — the judgment against Trump will increase at a daily rate of nearly $112,000 until it’s paid off because of interest on the penalty, according to the attorney general’s office.

The filing Monday seeking to freeze the entire $464 million was filed on behalf of Trump and his co-defendants, including his sons Don Jr. and Eric, who've been running the Trump Organization since their father first went to the White House.  

In a separate case in New York federal court, Trump last week posted a $91 million bond to secure writer E. Jean Carroll's $83 million defamation judgment against him while he appeals that verdict as well.

Adam Reiss is a reporter and producer for NBC and MSNBC.

Dareh Gregorian is a politics reporter for NBC News.