sample heading for application letter

• Career Blog

Cover Letter Heading: 10 Best Examples for 2024

A cover letter is an essential document that accompanies a resume when applying for a job. It serves as an introduction to the candidate and provides an opportunity to showcase their skills and qualifications. While the resume lists the candidate’s experience, education, and achievements, a cover letter allows the candidate to explain why they are the best fit for a particular position.

A well-crafted cover letter can make a difference in a hiring manager’s decision to invite a candidate for an interview. A cover letter allows the candidate to personalize their application and demonstrate their interest in the company and position they are applying for. It is an opportunity to highlight specific skills and experiences that make the candidate a strong fit for the job.

Purpose of Cover Letter Heading

The heading of a cover letter is the first thing that the hiring manager will see. It should include the candidate’s contact information, the date, and the recipient’s name and address. The purpose of the heading is to make the cover letter look professional and informative.

The Basics of a Cover Letter Heading

When it comes to writing a cover letter, one of the crucial parts to pay attention to is the heading. In this section, we will discuss the definition of a cover letter heading, where to place it, what should be included, and tips for creating a strong cover letter heading.

A. Definition of Cover Letter Heading

The cover letter heading is the section that appears at the top of the cover letter. It contains important information that introduces the letter and provides context about the applicant. Typically, the heading includes the applicant’s name, address, phone number, and email address. The employer also expects the date they received the letter to be present.

B. Where to Place Cover Letter Heading

The cover letter heading should be placed at the beginning of the cover letter, right at the top of the page. It should appear aligned to the left-hand margin of the document.

C. What Should be Included in Cover Letter Heading

As previously mentioned, the cover letter heading should include essential personal information such as the applicant’s name, address, phone number, and email address. If the letter is being sent via email, including the applicant’s HTML email signature (if they have one) may be an additional, more professional touch. Additionally, it’s important to include the date the letter was written, as well as the employer or hiring manager’s name and address.

D. Tips for Creating a Strong Cover Letter Heading

A strong cover letter heading should be easy to read and contain all the necessary information. Here are some tips to guide you:

Use a legible font: choose a font that’s easy to read, popular examples include Arial or Times New Roman.

Keep it brief: the cover letter heading doesn’t need to be too long. Just include the essentials and keep it concise.

Use appropriate spacing: ensure there’s enough spacing between each line that will make the heading clear, easy to read, and navigate.

Add a personal touch: consider adding a professional-looking personal logo or design to your header that visually elevates the heading and makes it stand out.

Proofread: Finally, review and confirm that all information is correct and up-to-date, this helps avoid any errors that might distract attention from what should be communicated in the letter.

By following these tips and best practices, you can make sure that your cover letter heading stands out from the rest and provides the employer with the information they need. This will increase your chances of getting the hiring manager’s attention and landing the job you want.

Best Examples of Cover Letter Heading

One of the most important aspects of a cover letter is the heading, as it sets the tone for the entire document. Here are 10 examples of the best cover letter headings:

Example 1: Traditional Heading

A traditional heading includes your name, contact information, and the date of the application. It’s a classic and professional option that never goes out of style.

Example 2: Modern Heading

A modern heading can incorporate a bold font, unique design, or color to grab the reader’s attention. It shows off your creativity and attention to detail.

Example 3: Minimalist Heading

A minimalist heading uses simple and clean lines to convey a sense of sophistication and professionalism. It’s a great option for industries like finance or law.

Example 4: Creative Heading

A creative heading incorporates elements like graphics or images to showcase your personality and stand out from the competition. It can work well in artistic or design-related fields.

Example 5: Unique Heading

A unique heading can include a catchy tagline, quote, or reference to the job you’re applying for. It captures the reader’s attention and makes a memorable impression.

Example 6: Professional Heading

A professional heading includes your name, job title, and contact information. It’s straightforward and highlights your experience and qualifications.

Example 7: Personalized Heading

A personalized heading references the company or position you’re applying for, and shows that you’ve done your research and know what the company values.

Example 8: Industry-Specific Heading

An industry-specific heading includes relevant keywords and phrases that align with the industry or job you’re applying for. This shows that you have a strong understanding of the field.

Example 9: Keyword-Optimized Heading

A keyword-optimized heading uses specific keywords and phrases from the job posting to ensure that your application doesn’t get overlooked by applicant tracking systems.

Example 10: Eye-catching Heading

An eye-catching heading uses a bold font, color, or unique design to catch the reader’s attention and make a lasting impression. It’s a great option for creative fields.

Your cover letter heading should be a reflection of your personal style and the job you’re applying for. Use these 10 examples as a starting point to create a heading that stands out and sets you apart from the competition.

How to Choose the Best Cover Letter Heading for Your Application

When it comes to crafting a cover letter heading that will catch a potential employer’s eye, there are several factors to consider. These include the job requirements and company culture, your personal brand and industry, and the purpose and tone of your cover letter. By tailoring your heading to the job and employer, you can increase your chances of standing out among other applicants.

A. Analyze the Job Requirements and Company Culture

Before crafting your cover letter heading, carefully analyze the job requirements and company culture. Look for keywords and phrases that are frequently used in the job description, as well as any specific company values or mission statements mentioned on the company website. This will give you a better sense of what the employer is looking for in a candidate and how you can position yourself as a strong fit for the role.

B. Consider Your Personal Brand and Industry

Your personal brand and industry should also play a role in choosing the best cover letter heading. If you work in a more creative industry, for example, you may want to use a more colorful and unique heading that reflects your personality and design skills. On the other hand, if you work in a more traditional or conservative industry, a more straightforward and professional heading may be more appropriate.

C. Determine the Purpose and Tone of Your Cover Letter

The purpose and tone of your cover letter should also guide your choice of heading. If you are applying for a job with a specific company, you may want to use the company name in your heading to show your interest and attention to detail. If you are hoping to convey a more personal or passionate tone, you may want to use a heading that highlights your motivation for applying to the job.

D. Tailor Your Heading to the Job and Employer

Ultimately, the key to choosing the best cover letter heading is to tailor it to the job and employer. This means taking into account the job requirements, company culture, your personal brand and industry, and the purpose and tone of your cover letter. By doing so, you can create a heading that stands out from the competition and captures the attention of your potential employer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Cover Letter Heading

Your cover letter heading is the first thing that recruiters and hiring managers see when they open your application. It’s essential to make a great first impression, and avoid the following mistakes:

A. Using Unprofessional or Offensive Language

Your cover letter heading should be professional and free of any offensive language. Avoid using slang or phrases that may be inappropriate in a professional setting. Make sure to spell check and double-check your wording before submitting.

B. Creating a Bland or Generic Heading

Avoid using a generic heading that does not give any information about the specific job or industry you are applying to. Customize your heading to fit the job that you are applying for, and make sure it stands out among other applications.

C. Failing to Customize the Heading for Each Application

Every job posting is different, and your cover letter heading should reflect that. Make sure to customize your heading for each job you apply to, including any specific requirements or qualifications listed in the job posting.

D. Making Spelling or Grammar Errors in the Heading

Spelling and grammar errors are a red flag for recruiters and hiring managers. Make sure to proofread your heading carefully, and have someone else check it as well. A second set of eyes can catch mistakes that you may have missed.

E. Including Irrelevant Information in the Heading

Your cover letter heading should be concise and relevant to the job you are applying for. Avoid including any unnecessary or irrelevant information, such as your address or personal information. Stick to the job title and any relevant qualifications or skills.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a professional and effective cover letter heading that will grab the attention of recruiters and hiring managers. Remember, your cover letter heading is the first impression you make, so make it count!

Frequently Asked Questions about Cover Letter Heading

When it comes to crafting a cover letter, one of the most important elements is the heading. A well-written heading can grab the attention of the hiring manager and make your application stand out. However, there are several questions that often arise when it comes to creating a cover letter heading. Below are some frequently asked questions and their answers.

A. Should I Use the Same Heading for Every Cover Letter?

While it may be tempting to use the same cover letter heading for every application, it’s important to customize your heading for each job you apply for. This can include using the company name, position title, or other relevant information to make your application more tailored to the specific job.

B. How Long Should My Cover Letter Heading Be?

Your cover letter heading should be brief and to the point. Generally, it should not exceed two lines. This ensures that it doesn’t take up too much space on the page and keeps your application looking clean and professional.

C. Can I Include a Tagline or Slogan in my Heading?

Including a tagline or slogan in your heading can be a great way to showcase your personal brand and make your application stand out. However, it’s important to ensure that the tagline is relevant to the job you are applying for and that it doesn’t detract from the main content of your cover letter.

D. Is it Okay to Use a Colored or Graphic Header for My Cover Letter?

While a colored or graphic header can add visual interest to your cover letter, it’s important to use them sparingly and appropriately. If you’re applying for a creative role, a colored or graphic header may be appropriate, but for most jobs, a simple and professional heading is the way to go.

E. Should I Include My Contact Information in the Heading or Body of My Cover Letter?

Including your contact information in the heading of your cover letter can make it easier for the hiring manager to reach out to you. However, it’s also okay to include your contact information in the body of your cover letter, either at the top or bottom of the page. Just be sure to double-check that you’ve included all the necessary information, including your phone number and email address, so that the hiring manager can easily reach out to you if necessary.

Crafting a strong cover letter heading requires attention to detail and careful consideration. By customizing your heading for each job, keeping it brief and to the point, and ensuring that it’s relevant and professional, you can create a great first impression with your application.

Related Articles

• Web Analyst: Understanding the Role and Responsibilities
• Interview Follow-Up: How & When to Check After an Interview
• 20 Communications Specialist Resume Examples for 2023
• Regional Manager Resume: Sample and Writing Guide
• How to Update LinkedIn Profiles & Share Updates in 2023

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job
• Cover Letters

Cover Letter Layout Example and Formatting Tips

Cover Letter Layout Tips

How to use a cover letter template, cover letter template with layout, example of a cover letter.

• Tips for an Email Cover Letter

Image by Colleen Tighe © The Balance 2019 

When writing a cover letter (as you should do each time you submit a resume as part of a job application), the layout of your letter is very important. Layout refers to the way the words are set up on the page, including headings, spacing, and font. You want to use a layout that makes your letter both easy to read and professional.

Read below for advice about how to lay out your letter, as well as a template for a cover letter.

When laying out a cover letter, you want to follow the layout of a typical business letter.

Heading. A business letter begins with your contact information, and then the employer’s contact information, if it's available.

Letter spacing. It's important to properly space the layout of the cover letters you send, with space between the heading, the greeting, each paragraph, the closing, and your signature.  Single space  your letter and leave a space between each paragraph. Also, remember to left-justify your entire letter.

Font and font size. When selecting a font, use a  simple font  like Arial, Verdana, Courier New, or Times New Roman. Your font size should be no smaller than 10-pt. but no larger than 12-pt. In choosing your font size, 12 pt. is probably the best—you don’t want to irritate a hiring manager by making him or her have to squint to read your font.

The cover letter template below shows the layout for a typical cover letter. Use the template to structure your own cover letter. It will give you advice on how to space your letter, what font to use, and how to justify your page.

What's Included in the Letter

The template also briefly describes what kind of content should go in each paragraph. Use this information to help you begin writing your own letter, tailored to reflect your own career history, professional qualifications, hard and soft skills , and your knowledge about the job and employer to which you are applying.

You can also review  examples of cover letters  for advice on how to word your cover letter.

Be Flexible

When using a format or a sample letter, remember to be flexible. You can add or remove paragraphs to fit the needs of the particular job description. Your letter doesn't have to exactly match the template.

Write Customized Cover Letters

Also, keep in mind that your best strategy is to write a customized cover letter for each job to which you are applying. Hiring managers can tell when they’ve been sent a generic cover letter; they are more likely to be interested in candidates who have taken the time to write unique letters that specifically address the job opening they are offering.

Heading The  first section  of your cover letter should include information on how the employer can contact you. If you have contact information for the employer, include that. Otherwise, just list your information. This section should be single-spaced and left-justified, with a space between your contact information and your employer’s contact information.

Your  Contact Information

Your Name Your Address Your City, State Zip Code Your Phone Number Your Email Address

Employer Contact Information

Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:

First Paragraph:

Each of your body paragraphs should be single-spaced, with a space between each paragraph. The  first paragraph  of your cover letter should include information on the position you are applying for, including the job title. You should state how you heard about the job, and (briefly) explain why you think you are an ideal candidate for the position.

(space between paragraphs)

Middle Paragraph(s): 

The  next section  of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer. Mention why you are qualified for the job and how your skills and experience are a match for the position for which you are applying. Provide specific examples to prove your skills and experience; these examples will “pop” on the page if you provide them in a bulleted format.

Final Paragraph:  Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position. Include information on how you will follow up with them regarding the status of your application.

Sincerely yours,

(double space)

Handwritten Signature (for a hard copy letter)

Typed Signature

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

Sample Cover Letter

Kelly Timmons 62 Beacon Street Huntington Station, NY 11746 555-123-4568 kelly.timmons@myemail.com

August 17, 2020

Ms. Maribel Jones Human Resources Manager Belview Electronics 123 Main Street Huntington, NY 11743

Dear Ms. Jones:

I was excited to find the Customer Service Representative position on the Careers page of the Belview Electronics website. I believe I would be a good fit for your company because I have all of your required qualifications, as well as extensive experience in customer service and the electronics industry.

I have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, and I am fluent in both English and Spanish. In addition, I worked as a customer representative for a local plumbing company while I was in college. I have excellent phone skills and the ability to multitask. In addition, I am well organized, and proficient in most word processing and spreadsheet programs. My schedule is very flexible, and I would be happy to work evenings or weekends as necessary.

Thank you so much for your consideration. I’ve included my resume so you may further review my qualifications for the position. My cell phone is 555-123-4568, and my email is kelly.timmons@myemail.com. I look forward to hearing from you so we can arrange an interview.

Kelly Timmons  (signature for a hard copy letter)

Kelly Timmons

Tips for Sending an Email Cover Letter

When you are sending your letter via email include your name and the job title in the subject line of your message:

Subject: FirstName LastName – Manager Position

List your contact information in your signature, rather than in the body of the letter:

FirstName LastName Your Email Your Phone Number Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

What do I include in my cover letter heading?

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

"Writing Your Cover Letter" is a series of short documents that walks you through the creation of a cover letter. Here you can see the information in the "Quick Tips for Cover Letters" and "Preparing to Write a Cover Letter" pages put to use. This page guides you through adapting your experiences to the content in your cover letter and its different sections.

The heading provides your contact information, the date you are writing, and the address of the company to which you are applying.

For your contact information, you will want to include the following:

• The address where you can be reached ( if you live at college, will it be more accessible to include the local address or your permanent address? )
• Phone number
• Fax number (if applicable)
• E-mail address

Then, you will skip a line and write the full date ( month, day, year ). Follow this by skipping a space and writing the contact information for the person to whom you are writing:

• Name of the specific person
• Title of that person (if available)
• Address of the company

Craig M. Leroix 2987 W. Taylor Dr. Portland, OR 45720 890-372-1262 [email protected]

February 2, 2005

Amy Kincaid, Human Resource Director Western Electric, Inc. 387 Collier Lane Atlanta, Georgia 30051

Job seekers at Purdue University may find value in the Purdue career Wiki here .

The following are additional Purdue OWL resources to help you write your cover letter:

• Cover Letter Workshop- Formatting and Organization
• Example Employment Documents
• Cover Letters 1: Quick Tips
• Cover Letters 2: Preparing to Write a Cover Letter
• Cover Letter Presentation
• Job Search Documents for Working Class Positions

• Human Resource
• Business Strategy
• Operations Management
• Project Management
• Business Management
• Supply Chain Management
• Scholarship Essay
• Narrative Essay
• Descriptive Essay
• Buy Essay Online
• College Essay Help
• Help To Write Essay Online

What if I can’t write my essay?

• Paraphrasing
• Research Paper
• Research Proposal
• Speech Presentation
• Statistics Project
• Thesis Proposal