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

Cover Letter Sample for a Resume

how to write a resume letter sample

When to Write a Cover Letter

How to write a cover letter for a job, customize your cover letters.

  • Explain What's On Your Resume
  • Review Examples and Templates

Sample Cover Letter for a Resume

Sending an email cover letter, more cover letter examples.

The Balance / Alex Dos Diaz

Do you need to  write a cover letter  (also known as a  job application letter ) for a job? You may feel as though the document is unnecessary since you are already providing a resume with plenty of information.

Not so! A cover letter serves an important purpose: it presents the case for why you should be hired and distinguishes you from other candidates. Your cover letter is where you can show your passion for the position and the company, and highlight your most relevant qualifications. A well-written cover letter will supplement your resume by focusing on why you're a well-qualified candidate for the job.

Many employers require cover letters as part of the  job application process . However, even when an employer does not explicitly ask for a cover letter, you should send one. A Robert Half survey reports that 58% of employers prefer to receive a cover letter and find them to be valuable.

A strong cover letter can make your application stand out from the crowd. 

Review these tips for writing and sending a cover letter. Then, use the cover letter sample below as a guide for when you write your own cover letter.

Even when an employer does not directly ask for one, be sure to  always send a cover letter . When  shouldn’t  you send a cover letter?

The only time you should avoid sending a cover letter is when a job listing explicitly says not to send one. In that situation, it's more important to follow the directions on the job listing.

Make a Match

In your cover letter, address the top  skills and abilities you have that match the job description . Ideally, you should select the qualifications that are most relevant to the position for which you are applying:

  • Review the job description and try to determine which qualifications seem to add the most value to the position.
  • Provide a specific example of a time you demonstrated each of these qualifications.

Consider Using Bullets

One great way to showcase your skills and achievements is to include a bulleted list of your most impressive qualifications in the body of your cover letter. Using four or five bulleted items helps this information to “pop” on the page.

Quantify Your Achievements

When describing significant professional successes, make this information even more impressive by quantifying your contributions with numbers, percentages, or dollar amounts in boldface.

While it might seem tedious, you should always  customize each letter  to fit the specific job for which you are applying. After all, an effective cover letter must illustrate how your experience matches up to the requirements outlined in the job listing. Failing to do so can quickly get your application eliminated from the pool.

Echo the keyword phrases that are emphasized on the job announcement in your cover letter.

Employers often now use sophisticated applicant tracking systems to provide a first review of the cover letters and resumes they receive. The more industry-specific keywords your cover letter includes, the more likely it is that your application will be advanced for a deeper review.

Explain What's On Your Resume

You can use your cover letter to go into detail about something in your resume that needs explaining.

For example, a cover letter is a great place to talk about a  career shift , a  career break , or to  explain an extended gap in employment .

Proof and Edit Your Cover Letter

A CareerBuilder survey reports that typos and grammatical errors can cost you an interview, as can not including a cover letter.

Be sure to thoroughly proofread each cover letter before sending it, looking for grammar and spelling errors. Consider asking a friend or family member, or even a  career counselor , to read over your cover letter. It can be helpful to print a copy of your cover letter and edit it with a pen in hand. Reading it out loud is another good way to catch mistakes.

Review Examples and Templates

For help writing your cover letter, read samples like the one below, as well as  cover letter templates . Remember to tailor any example or template to fit your own experiences and the job for which you are applying.

Want more tips? Review the  top 10 cover letter writing tips  for more details on how to craft a successful cover letter. It’s smart to familiarize yourself with what it takes to write an effective cover letter before you get started writing. That way, you can spend less time on editing and more time on getting it right from the start.

You can also use a cover letter sample, like the one below, for inspiration.

Be sure to tailor any samples you use to match your own background and the job for which you are applying.

As a reminder, always rework your cover letter to fit each specific position that you apply for. In addition to tweaking the content, don’t forget to update the salutation, the job title, and the company name.

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

Sample Cover Letter for a Resume (Text Version)

Joseph Q. Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, USA 12345 555-212-1234 josephq@email.com

August 17, 2020

Jane Smith Director, Human Resources Acme Company 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Smith,

I am interested in the author's assistant position at Acme Company, as advertised on LinkedIn. I am currently employed as legislative director for Assemblywoman Nora Kiel, Chairperson of the NYS Assembly. I believe that the skills and experiences I have gained at this position make me an ideal candidate for the job of author’s assistant.

As legislative director, I have developed strong writing and editing skills. For example, one of my main duties is to prepare Assemblywoman Nora Kiel’s personal legislation, which deals with issues related to her position as Senior Member of the NYS Assembly Standing Committee.

This duty requires meticulous writing and editing skills, and an ability to convey complex legal ideas clearly. I have prepared dozens of pieces of legislation and received praise for the clarity of my writing.

I have also gained extensive experience in legal and policy research – fields that you state the author’s assistant must be familiar with. My experience in the NYS Assembly has afforded me the opportunity to become familiar with the consolidated and unconsolidated laws of the State of New York. In particular, through my work with Assemblywoman Nora Kiel, I have become heavily involved in the current welfare and Medicaid reform movement. I am always eager to learn more about state legislation, reading up on these topics on my own time to become more knowledgeable. I would love to bring this passion for policy and law to your company.

I am confident that my experience in the Legislature and my research and writing skills qualify me for consideration. If you would like, I can provide you with current samples of my work. I have also enclosed my resume. I look forward to meeting with you and discussing my qualifications in more detail.

Joseph Q. Applicant (signature hard copy letter)

Joseph Q. Applicant

If you're sending your cover  letter via email , list your name and the job title in the  subject line  of the  email message . Include your contact information in your email signature, but don't list the employer's contact information. Skip the date, and start your email message with the salutation.

Ready to get started? You can  review 100+ free cover letter examples  for more inspiration. Or, follow this guide on  how to write a cover letter in 5 easy steps .

Robert Half. " How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Stand Out ." Accessed March 17, 2021.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter? " Accessed March 17, 2021.

CareerBuilder. " Employers Share Their Most Outrageous Resume Mistakes and Instant Deal Breakers ." Accessed March 17, 2021.

  • Crimson Careers
  • For Employers
  • Harvard College
  • Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts & Sciences
  • Harvard Extension School
  • Premed / Pre-Health
  • Families & Supporters
  • Faculty & Staff
  • Prospective Students
  • First Generation / Low Income
  • International Students
  • Students of Color
  • Students with Disabilities
  • Undocumented Students
  • Explore Interests & Make Career Decisions
  • Create a Resume/CV or Cover Letter
  • Expand Your Network
  • Engage with Employers
  • Search for a Job
  • Find an Internship
  • January Experiences (College)
  • Find & Apply for Summer Opportunities Funding
  • Prepare for an Interview
  • Negotiate an Offer
  • Apply to Graduate or Professional School
  • Access Resources
  • AI for Professional Development and Exploration
  • Arts & Entertainment
  • Business & Entrepreneurship
  • Climate, Sustainability, Environment, Energy
  • Government, Int’l Relations, Education, Law, Nonprofits
  • Life Sciences & Health
  • Technology & Engineering
  • Still Exploring
  • Talk to an Advisor

Harvard College Resumes & Cover Letter Guide

  • Share This: Share Harvard College Resumes & Cover Letter Guide on Facebook Share Harvard College Resumes & Cover Letter Guide on LinkedIn Share Harvard College Resumes & Cover Letter Guide on X

A resume is a concise, informative summary of your abilities, education, and experience. It should highlight your strongest assets and skills, and differentiate you from other candidates seeking similar positions.

cookies image

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

  • Resume Writing
  • Resume Examples
  • Cover Letter
  • Remote Work
  • Famous Resumes
  • Try Kickresume

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship? (+5 Real Internship Cover Letter Examples)

  • Julia Mlcuchova , 
  • Updated March 20, 2024 8 min read

Trying to figure out how to write a cover letter for an internship ? Look no further!

POV: After weeks and weeks of searching for the right internship opportunity, you've finally found it. But, at the end of the posting, there's a single short sentence that takes you aback:  “Please, attach a cover letter to your application .”

Although some consider cover letter writing to be a relic of the past, it still holds its rightful place in the professional world. 

Because a well-written and persuasive cover letter can sometimes make up for the lack of work experience on your resume . And if you're trying to apply for an internship , this is probably your case, too. 

So, continue reading this article and learn: 

  • What is a cover letter for an internship;
  • Whether you need to attach a cover letter to your internship application;
  • How to write one in 7 steps;
  • 5 real-life internship cover letter examples .

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a cover letter for an internship?

Do you need a cover letter for an internship, how to write a cover letter for an internship in 7 steps, 5 real-life internship cover letter examples, key takeaways: how to write a cover letter for an internship.

Generally speaking, an internship cover letter is a formal document that accompanies your resume when applying for an internship. 

When it comes to its content, a cover letter for an internship falls somewhere between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter . 

  • A traditional cover letter , used by job applicants with years of experience, is supposed to underline some of the candidate's most relevant and impressive skills, qualifications, and work achievements . 
  • A motivational letter , used mostly in academia, aims to communicate one's passion for the subject, their motivation, and personal goals . 

Hence, a cover letter for an internship combines the purpose of the traditional cover letter (convincing the recruiters that you're the right person for the job) with the tone and strategy of the motivational letter (writing about personal motivations and goals).

A truly successful internship cover letter should answer the following questions:

  • Who are you? 
  • Why are you interested in this particular internship?
  • Why are you the best fit for this internship?
  • What do you want to gain from this internship?

Absolutely! 

In fact, you should always attach a cover letter to your internship application , even if it isn't explicitly required from you.  

Why, you ask? 

Well, consider this: Internships are crucial stepping stones towards your dream career. And they're also incredibly competitive. A single internship opening can be answered by tens of applicants at a time. 

But how can you stand out from a crowd of equally inexperienced candidates? Certainly not by your non-existent professional accomplishments, right? 

When companies look for interns, they don't expect you to have a ton of real-life experience. They aren't looking for a “finished product,” but for someone with a genuine desire to learn and enthusiasm for the job. 

And these two are your weapons of choice!

How can a cover letter for an internship help you?

Apart from the reasons mentioned above, your internship cover letter is also responsible for: 

  • Conveying first impression. Usually, recruiters will read your cover letter before looking at your resume. So, it's the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to them in a memorable way. 
  • Showing your efforts. Next, taking the time to craft a thoughtful cover letter shows that you're willing to put in that extra effort to stand out from the rest of the candidates. 
  • Highlighting your communication skills. Also, a well-written cover letter demonstrates your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and professionally. 
  • Showing your professionalism. When you walk into a room, it's polite to introduce yourself and shake everybody's hand. This is exactly what a cover letter does! To attach one to your application is a common courtesy.

Now that you're familiar with the whats and whys , let's have a look at how to write a good cover letter for an internship step-by-step. 

For example : Application for [name of the internship] internship – Surname.

Then, place your contact information (your name; professional email address; phone number; link to your website / portfolio / social media accounts if relevant) directly into the header .

If you know the recipient's name, address them by “ Dear [full name] ,” or “ Dear Mrs/Mr [last name] ,”. If you don't know who to address the cover letter to , address it more generally to “Dear Hiring Manager,” .

In the first paragraph of your cover letter , start by stating your name and where you studied (including your current degree and year of study). Proceed by explaining how you came to know about the internship and what are your motivations for applying to it.

Since you don't have much work experience, you can talk about your academic achievements; relevant coursework; dissertation project; extracurricular activities; volunteering; membership in relevant societies, etc.

The closing paragraph of your cover letter should reiterate your desire to get the specific internship, express gratitude to the recipient for their time and consideration, and include a final call for action (i.e. "I look forward to discussing the next steps during an interview." )

Finally, based on how you greeted the recipient of your cover letter, you can sign off with either “ Yours sincerely ,” or “ Yours faithfully ,” . If you addressed the recruiter by their name, sign off with the former; if not, use the latter.

Don't feel like writing your internship cover letter by hand?

Let our AI cover letter writer create the first draft of your internship cover letter!

Undoubtedly, the best way to learn something is to look at specific examples . And that's exactly what we're going to do right now! 

Below, we've prepared 5 internship cover letters written by real people with the help of our cover letter templates .

And, each of them is accompanied by our internship cover letter writing tips that you can implement into your own cover letter! 

FYI, you can use each of these examples as the first draft for your very own internship cover letter – simply click on the red button and start personalising the text (or let AI handle it).

#1 Philips Marketing Intern Cover Letter Sample

Internship cover letter example:.

This cover letter sample was provided by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

What can you take away?

  • Eye-catching header.  Firstly, the header is visually clearly separated from the rest of the text. This makes the recruiters notice it immediately. Plus, the contact information of the company is also featured in the left-hand corner - just like it would be on an actual letter.
  • Research the company before applying. Notice sentences like: “ I really like and relate to what Philips stands for … ” and “ Furthermore, it is very appealing that Philips operates on an international level… ”.This shows that the candidate’s done a thorough research of the company's philosophy and structure.

#2 Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

  • Share a personal story. This can help you establish a sentimental connection between you and the company. Show them that for you, working for their company means more than any old internship.
  • Name-drop a referral. Now, this is a little bit of a cheat code. But, if you happen to know about anyone who has worked/currently works for the company, slip their name into your cover letter.

#3 University of Massachusetts Boston Intern Cover Letter Example

What can you take away  .

  • Write about what you want to gain from the internship. It shows that you're not there just to have something to put on your resume; but that you’re motivated by the idea of gaining actual industry knowledge and skills.

#4 Audit/Tax Summer Internship at CohnReznick Cover Letter Sample

  • Mention any relevant academic activities. If you're wondering how to write a cover letter for an internship with no experience whatsoever, this is your way to go! For example, notice how this candidate noted all of his relevant courses, skills, association membership, and competition participation.
  • Focus on transferrable skills. Especially when your study programme doesn't necessarily fit the internship opening to a T. Instead, focus on any transferable skills you've picked up. 

#5 Intern at NBC Cover Letter Sample

  • Keep your opening and closing paragraphs short and sweet. As you can see in this example, it helps keep a certain visual harmony of the overall document. And, despite the length, both paragraphs do exactly what they're supposed to. Besides, recruiters might be discouraged to read the rest of your cover letter if your introductory paragraph is too long.

To sum it all up, an internship cover letter is a formal document that you submit together with your resume when applying for an internship. Its content should be something between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter.

Its purpose is to introduce yourself to the recruiters in a more personal way than the resume allows. 

The main things you want your internship cover letter to communicate are:

  • who you are,
  • why you're interested in this opportunity,
  • what make you the best fit for the internship, 
  • your motivation (your long-term professional goals),
  • your desire to learn (what you want to gain from the experience).

To write a truly impactful and persuasive cover letter, we recommend following these 7 key steps: 

  • Specify which internship you're applying for in the subject line.
  • Include your contact information in a header.
  • Address the recipient appropriately.
  • Introduce yourself & your motivations in the opening paragraph.
  • Elaborate on why you're a good fit and what motivated you in body.
  • End your cover letter with a confident closing paragraph.
  • Finish off with a polite sign off. 

Finally, if you feel that the examples provided in this article aren't enough, you can always find more in our cover letter database . 

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

Related Posts

How to write a cover letter using chatgpt in 7 steps (+prompt template).

  • 11 min read

10 Cover Letter Samples by People Who Got Hired at Volvo, T-Mobile or HubSpot

Share this article, join our newsletter.

Every month, we’ll send you resume advice, job search tips, career hacks and more in pithy, bite-sized chunks. Sounds good?

What is a Letter of Intent? How to Write One for a Job [+ Examples]

Stephanie Trovato

Published: March 14, 2024

Standard job applications have a standard set of practices. You turn in a resume and cover letter, and then, if selected, you move through a few rounds of interviews and get the job.

person at their computer writing a letter of intent

However, not all potential job opportunities start with an application. In fact, many begin with initiative from a job seeker.

Free Kit: Everything You Need for Your Job Search

Those job seekers will send in a letter of intent rather than a  cover letter . In this article, we’ll take a look at what a letter of intent is and highlight some strategies for writing the best LOI you can. We’ve even included a template to help you get started. 

Here’s what you’ll find:

What is a letter of intent?

Letter of intent vs. cover letter, letter of intent vs. letter of interest, when to use a letter of intent.

How to Write a Letter of Intent for a Job

Letter of Intent Samples

Letter of intent template.

A letter of intent is a less common way of expressing interest in a company. It targets reasons you’re looking for opportunities with a specific organization.

A letter of intent does include elements of a traditional cover letter, such as relevant experience and skills, but it’s used in slightly different contexts. LOIs emphasize alignment between a job seeker and an organization.

letter of intent example for Publishing Now

There are a few key differences between a  cover letter  and a letter of intent, including:

Context. While a cover letter responds to a specific job listing, a letter of intent targets an organization more generally. It may or may not have a specific job opening at the time that the LOI is sent in.

Focus. A cover letter explains why an applicant is a  good fit for a specific role . An LOI, on the other hand, addresses an individual’s compatibility with an overall organization or more general role.

Initiative. A cover letter is a reactive document responding to a job opening. A letter of intent, however, demonstrates more initiative and provides information before an organization specifically requests it.

how to write a resume letter sample

22 Job Seeking Templates

Download this bundle of 22 expertly-crafted templates for cover letters, resignation notices, and resumes.

  • Resignation Letter Templates
  • Cover Letter Templates
  • Resume Templates

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

Letter of intent and  letter of interest  are often used interchangeably. While there are a lot of similarities between the two documents, there are also a few key differences:

Level of intent. Letters of intent have a high level of intentionality, while letters of interest are more exploratory. A letter of intent proposes action, while letters of interest are for information gathering.

Commitment level. A letter of intent is a high-commitment way of expressing interest in a company, while a letter of interest is a lower commitment. An individual is more likely to send out multiple letters of interest. 

Action orientation. A letter of intent always ends with a call to action, while a letter of interest is more laid-back and may not request anything specific from the recipient.

While both letters demonstrate initiative and are closely tailored to the company, they do serve slightly different purposes.

There are lots of scenarios where a job seeker may want to send out a letter of intent. Here are a few examples: 

You have a high level of interest in a specific company, but there’s not an open role.

You are interested in networking with a company in a committed way.

You want to reach out with a formal follow-up after a networking event.

You’re applying to a highly competitive field.

You’re aware of a potential job opportunity with an organization that hasn’t been published yet.

Additionally, students or job seekers switching industries may use letters of intent to apply to educational opportunities like internships and apprenticeships — though those may also be called  cover letters . 

when to use a letter of intent

How to Write a Letter of Intent

There are plenty of ways to approach writing a letter of intent for a job. Here’s a step-by-step process for writing your LOI draft:

1. Provide your contact information.  

At the top of your LOI, you’ll want to provide contact information so your recipient can contact you about future opportunities. This can include your phone number, email, and address.

2. Use an appropriate greeting.

For some opportunities, a formal greeting is appropriate. In other situations, a more informal approach may be ideal. If possible, address the specific recipient. 

3. Provide an introduction.  

In the intro paragraphs, you’ll want to tap into three specifics:

Who you are.

Why you’re reaching out.

How you got this company’s information.

Feel free to vary the order of this information. Your LOI intro may be formal or more playful, depending on who you are and the organization you’re submitting to.

4. Dive into your strengths and company alignment.  

An LOI is created to clearly convey why you’re a good fit for the organization. In the body paragraphs of your letter, you’ll want to explain:

  • Your strengths.
  • What you do.
  • How those things would fit with the organization.

5. Guide the conversation into the future.  

All LOIs end with a call to action, which is one of the things that differentiates it from a letter of interest or a cover letter. Map out potential next steps so it’s easy for the reader to take action. It could include:

A request to schedule a meeting.

Making a specific pitch.

Encouraging the recipient to send a follow-up email.

6. Write a thoughtful conclusion .

Conclude your LOI by reiterating your interest in the company. Make sure to thank the recipient for their time, too — there wasn’t a job opening request, so they took time out of their day to read your letter.

If you’re sending your LOI because of an internal referral, be sure to reference them within the letter. 

how to write a letter of intent

Let’s go through a few different samples of LOIs and highlight what each does well. Refer to these samples as you draft your own letter of intent for guidance on incorporating the elements of an LOI seamlessly.

Internal Connection

Dear Mr. Waterhouse, My name is Jennifer Orlando, and I am an accomplished sommelier with a decade of experience. I recently enjoyed a glass at your wine bar, and I would love to chat with you more if you’re hiring soon. My colleague, Jackson Marymount, has worked at Italiano Wine Bar for several years and highly recommends working with your organization. I have a wine service background and a Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 certification. I’m passionate about Italian wines — Nebbiolos are my favorite! Jackson says you’re a fan, as well. My passion for Italian wines, combined with my experience, make me a great candidate for Italiano Wine Bar if you’re ever in need of an extra hand. I appreciate you taking the time to read my letter today, and if you’d like to chat further, please email me, and we can schedule a time to sit down together. Thank you again for your time. Warm regards, Jennifer

In this letter of intent, Jennifer leverages an internal connection. This is a great way to earn a few extra points when explaining how you know about the business. Beyond that, Jennifer’s experiences align well with the work that the wine bar does.

What I like:  This letter of intent does a great job of personalization, weaving through the internal connection perfectly in a few different spots. A referral is a powerful aid to incorporate into an LOI, and Jennifer did a great job dropping hints of her connection.

Making a Pitch

Dear Elise, My name is Mark Morgan, and I’m a freelance graphic designer with a passion for bold marketing materials. I found your marketing company while on LinkedIn the other day, and I would love to collaborate with you in the future. As I read up on your company, I discovered a lot of similarities between my work and your organization. I, too, advocate for bright and forward advertising, and creating smart and attractive ads is my specialty. While I noticed you don’t have any posted project needs at this time, I was browsing your offerings and saw an opportunity to bolster your products. Your “Full-Stack Ad Copywriting” package covers strategy and copy, but it doesn’t offer graphic design. I’d love to bring my skills to the table to supplement your product. If you’d like to chat further, please shoot me an email, and we’ll set up a time to discuss potential collaboration. Thanks so much for taking the time to read my letter. Take care, Mark

What I like:  In this letter, Mark is making a pitch. He still covers the bases of a great LOI — discussing his strengths and alignment with the brand. But instead of just calling for a meeting, he makes a pitch that is specific to the organization. This provides value to the recipient and makes Mark look like a strong collaborator. 

Mark could benefit from HubSpot’s CMS Hub to manage his pitches. Lead generation and content creation are important parts of freelancing, and Mark needs to stay organized in order to do it well. Learn more about  HubSpot’s CMS Hub here .

Diving Into Alignment

Dear Michael, My name is Jordan, and I’m a non-profit manager. I’m reaching out today because I discovered your organization through one of my colleagues. I’d love to see if you’re in need of any managerial services. My values are in close alignment with the values of Trees 4 Life Canada. I’m dedicated to service and passionately believe saving the trees is one of the best ways we can save the world. I studied agriculture in college and have since dedicated my professional life to collaboration with tree nonprofits. If you’re seeking a manager in the near future, I’d love to be considered for the role. With my experience and alignment with your values, I’d surely be a great fit. Please feel free to send me an email at jordanlovestrees@example.com. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Jordan

Letters of intent are standard documents, so you don’t need to worry about reinventing the wheel each time you send one. Use this template as a resource to ensure your letter includes all the important parts.

[Your name]

[Your contact information]

[Recipient’s Name]

[Recipient’s contact information]

Dear  [Recipient or To Whom It May Concern] ,

My name is  [Your Name] ,  [title/relevant information about yourself] , and I heard about your organization through  [how you know the organization] . I’m reaching out to connect. I would love to chat if your team plans on expanding.

I have skills in  [skills]  that I believe would be a great fit for your organization. Your values of  [company values]  are in close alignment with my strengths, and I believe I could make a great contribution.

I believe that my  [abilities/skills/interests]  would benefit your company, and I’d love to talk more about any potential opportunities that arise with  [name of organization] . If interested, please reach out by  [phone/email]  to schedule a time to meet with me.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter, and I hope to talk with you further in the future.

Of course, you’ll want to edit the template for tone and specifics related to yourself and the organization you’re contacting. 

Finding Success With a Great Letter of Intent

Sending a letter of intent can be vulnerable, but it’s a great way to make new connections and set yourself up for employment success.

Refer to these strategies, samples, and templates to make sure your LOI is going to be the most effective letter possible. Emphasize your alignment with the organization, and you’re sure to see success!

Apply for a job, keep track of important information, and prepare for an  interview with the help of this free job seekers kit.

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

The Best 30-60-90 Day Plan for Your New Job [Template + Example]

The Best 30-60-90 Day Plan for Your New Job [Template + Example]

How to Write a Respectable Resignation Letter [+Samples & Templates]

How to Write a Respectable Resignation Letter [+Samples & Templates]

12 Incredible Answers to

12 Incredible Answers to "What Is Your Greatest Weakness?" — That Aren't "Perfectionism"

20 Creative Interview Questions (With Sample Answers)

20 Creative Interview Questions (With Sample Answers)

The Best Fonts for Your Resume in 2023, According to HubSpot Recruiters

The Best Fonts for Your Resume in 2023, According to HubSpot Recruiters

26 Quotes to Inspire Your Job Search

26 Quotes to Inspire Your Job Search

The Job Search Process: 10 Tips on How to Land Your Dream Job (+3 Resume Examples)

The Job Search Process: 10 Tips on How to Land Your Dream Job (+3 Resume Examples)

Instagram and TikTok Resumes: Are Marketing Managers Watching Them?

Instagram and TikTok Resumes: Are Marketing Managers Watching Them?

The Great Resignation: How It's Changing Hiring for Companies and Job Prospects [+ Expert Insight]

The Great Resignation: How It's Changing Hiring for Companies and Job Prospects [+ Expert Insight]

10 Essential Job Search Strategies to Help Land Your Next Big Gig

10 Essential Job Search Strategies to Help Land Your Next Big Gig

22 resignation letter, resume, and cover letter templates.

Marketing software that helps you drive revenue, save time and resources, and measure and optimize your investments — all on one easy-to-use platform

how to write a resume letter sample

How to Write an Objective for a Resume

A resume objective statement is a few sentences stating your value to the employer, your strengths and why you are seeking the position in relation to your long-term goals.

Writing a solid objective statement can help you create a smart, tailored resume.

Do You Need a Resume Objective Statement?

Sometimes, an objective statement is not necessary, since it takes up prime real estate on your resume, where you could be selling yourself instead. In some cases, it could be repetitive. For example, if a company accepts a cover letter , you will want to use your cover letter to explain your goals and reasons for wanting the position in greater detail, making the resume objective statement unnecessary.

On the other hand, some companies are no longer asking for cover letters. In this case, using a resume objective statement is worth considering to address those items immediately on your resume.

Create a Long Version of Your Objective Statement

Narrowing your short-term goals and why you want to work for the company into a few sentences can be tough, so it's best to create a long version of your objective statement first.

Once you have written down all of your short-term goals and reasons why you want that particular position , you will be better equipped to narrow down your objective to a few sentences with only the most essential details. The long version will also help you have a good starting point to delete or add details as you continue to perfect your statement.

Include Any Important Information in Your Resume Objective Statement

Are you only looking for part-time work ? Are you applying for a remote job in another state or country? Are you relocating or changing industries ? Make sure to include those important details in your objective statement to avoid being disqualified from the hiring process.

Resume Objective Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using a cookie-cutter objective statement. Your objective statement should be tailored to each position you apply for, so it speaks directly to the company you want to work for. While your professional goals essentially don’t change, you can word them in a certain way that most appeals to each individual job position. You will also want to include specific reasons why you want to work for the company, and that will change with each job position. While some details may stay the same (recent college grad, laid off, etc.), take the extra time to personalize your resume objective statements.
  • Not clearly stating the value you provide to the company. While an objective statement should highlight your value, it's important to make the connection to the job position. Don't assume that the hiring manager will make the connection on their own. You need to do that for them. Ask yourself if your objective statement clearly shows how your value benefits the company you want to work for.
  • Forgetting to spellcheck your objective statement. Since this section is at the top of your resume, you want to make a good impression. Grammar and spelling mistakes can get your resume tossed into the trash, so it's worth spending the extra time to double-check your resume objective statement. You can also ask a friend or family member to proofread it for you.
  • Mentioning accomplishments that aren't listed on your resume. If you decide to talk about a certain accomplishment or skill in your objective statement, make sure that is also listed on your resume. The hiring manager will want to see proof of what you list on your objective statement. If you don't provide that anywhere on your resume, it will cast doubt on your entire document.

Alternatives to a Resume Objective Statement

A resume objective statement may not be the best option for your resume. In this case, you can substitute your objective statement for your branding statement . Your branding statement often makes more impact than an objective statement. An advantage of using your branding statement is that it’s already personalized and doesn’t change for each job position.

Another alternative to a resume objective statement is making good use of the summary of qualifications section on your resume. This is where you can restate your qualifications in a slightly different way than from your cover letter. This area of your resume should also be tailored to each job position. Make sure to include the keywords from the job posting that you qualify for in this section.

Another alternative is to skip this section altogether. If your experience clearly shows that you qualify for the position, you may determine that it's better to use that space to showcase your professional experience section on your resume instead of including an objective statement.

Resume Objective Statement Samples

If you're seeking inspiration before crafting your own resume objective, check out these statements:

  • I am a highly skilled, dedicated and approachable professional with more than 10 years of experience in the marketing field. I am seeking the position of marketing director to help (Company Name) get amazing stories out into the marketplace.
  • I am a friendly, hardworking chef with 12 years of experience in the midchain restaurant business. I'm currently seeking the position of head chef to bring my unique multinational flavors to (Company Name’s) table.

Resume Sample

To see where your objective statement should go on your resume, see the following sample below.

111-222-1212 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/avajonessample

MARKETING DIRECTOR

I am a highly-skilled, dedicated, and approachable professional with more than 10 years of experience in the marketing field. I am seeking the position of Marketing Director to help (Company Name) get amazing stories out into the marketplace.

KEY COMPETENCIES (SKILLS)

Analytical | Process Improvement | Dedicated Project Manager | Relationship Management | Motivational Mentor | Excellent Communication Skills | More Skills Here

PAST WORK EXPERIENCE

Complete this section and onward as you would on a typical resume, filling in the details of past jobs, education, etc.

Copyright 2023 U.S. News & World Report

231011_womanonphone

VIDEO

  1. Resume vs cover letter/ What's the difference? #resume #coverletters #jobsearchsuccess #jobsearch

  2. How to write a CV with Chat GPT

  3. HOW TO WRITE COVER LETTER for CVs RESUMES

  4. How to write a CV

  5. Letter To The Editor Format

  6. Create a cover letter that gets you hired as a fresh graduate

COMMENTS

  1. How to Write Resume Free

    See Which Resumes Employers Loved in 2019 and Build the Perfect Resume in 2020. Don't Work without Pay. Use Our Automatic Resume Builder & Get a Higher Paying Job.

  2. Cover Letter

    Browse 100s of Simple & Modern Cover Letter Templates. No Writing or Experience Needed. Use Our Free Cover Letter Builder to Create a Perfect Cover Letter in Just A Few Clicks.

  3. How To Write a Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)

    Middle paragraph (s) Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Show Transcript.

  4. How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Examples

    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.

  5. 60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

    Middle Management Cover Letter Example #4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example #5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example #6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example #7. Architect Cover Letter Example #8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example #9. Consultant Cover Letter Example #10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example #11.

  6. How to Make a Resume in 2024: Writing Guide + Examples

    Make it distinctive to highlight your name and contact information. Organize your resume sections in the following order: summary/objective, work experience, education, skills, and extras. Use bullet points for your entries under each section. Find resume icons for each section or skip them altogether.

  7. How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job in 2024

    Respectfully, Kind regards, Best regards, Yours truly, Then, make two spaces below the salutation, and type your full name. For some professional (but optional) flair, sign your cover letter either with a scan of your signature or by using software like DocuSign. 8. Check your cover letter's content and formatting.

  8. 200+ Professional Cover Letter Examples for Job Seekers

    5. Career change cover letter example. Writing a cover letter for a job in your current industry is pretty straightforward. But writing a career change cover letter requires a slightly different approach. The sample cover letter below includes the three elements you need to persuade a hiring manager you're ready to transfer industries:

  9. How To Make a Comprehensive Resume (With Examples)

    Example: "Achieved goal of reaching 250% annual sales quota, winning sales MVP two quarters in a row.". Be brief. Employers have mere seconds to review your resume, so you should keep your descriptions as concise and relevant as possible. Try removing filler words like "and," and "the.".

  10. Resume and Cover Letter Samples and Templates

    Samples for Students As a student or recent graduate, you will have some special circumstances that you'll want to highlight in your resume and cover letters for jobs and internships. It's helpful to see how to make those hours of volunteer work and casual jobs relate to career-world experience. Browse sample resumes, cover letters, and reference letters especially for high school students ...

  11. Cover Letter Sample for a Resume

    Review a sample cover letter to send with a resume to apply for a job, writing tips, what to include, plus more examples of interview winning cover letters. ... For help writing your cover letter, read samples like the one below, as well as cover letter templates. Remember to tailor any example or template to fit your own experiences and the ...

  12. Harvard College Resumes & Cover Letter Guide

    Resume/CV/Cover Letter Templates Show more Resume/CV/Cover Letter Templates. Harvard Griffin GSAS PhD Resume & Cover Letter Guide; Harvard Griffin GSAS Master's Resume & Cover Letter Guide; HES Resume & Cover Letter Guide; Harvard College Bullet Point Resume Template; Harvard College Paragraph Resume Template; Harvard College Resume Example ...

  13. How to Write a Cover Letter For Any Job + Expert Tips

    Place your name, city, state, ZIP code, phone number and email address in your cover letter heading. Your email address should be professional like "[email protected]," and not personal like "[email protected]." Include links to your LinkedIn profile or professional online portfolio if you have one.

  14. 5 Short Cover Letter Examples (And How to Write Your Own)

    4. Use short words rather than long phrases. Without realizing it, we sometimes write unnecessarily long phrases on professional documents when a single word is enough. After you've written your cover letter, go back and reread it. Replace longer phrases with single words (or at least fewer words).

  15. Resume and Cover Letter Examples

    Get inspired by the best resume examples and cover letter samples to get your job application to the next ... Resume Templates; CV Templates; Cover Letters; Novocareer; Career Blog . All Articles Resume & CV Writing Cover Letter Writing Examples Personal Development Inspiring Stories Interviews & Find A Job. Pricing; EN US. Dansk BETA Deutsch ...

  16. How to Make the Perfect Resume (With Examples!)

    5. Don't Forget Your Education. If you're still in school or just graduated, your education can go at the top of your resume, but for pretty much everyone else, this goes near the bottom. Most people include their school, graduation year (for folks less up to about a decade out of school), major, and degree.

  17. Basic Cover Letters & How to Write Them

    Use bullet points to break up long paragraphs and make your cover letter easier to read. Use them to highlight your most relevant skills and experiences. Use white space to make your cover letter more visually appealing and easier to read. Avoid cramming too much text onto one page.

  18. How to Write a Cover Letter for Any Job in 2024

    Step 9: Stay Formal in the Closing Salutation. Once you've written the body of your cover letter, you just need to put a formal closing at the very end. Write "Sincerely" and follow it with your full name. Adding your handwritten signature is optional (recommended for more formal cover letters).

  19. Cover Letter Examples, Templates and Writing Tips

    Law cover letter samples (3) The verdict is in — a strong cover letter is critical to landing a job in the field of law. Study our cover letter examples for a job as an attorney, legal assistant or lawyer. Free In-house Lawyer Cover Letter Templates. Professional Legal Secretary Cover Letter Sample & Writing Guide.

  20. Cover Letter Examples & Samples (Any Job or Industry)

    Data entry cover letter example. Livia Sanders is poised to begin her career in programming. With a background in data entry and the necessary skills for a career transition, Livia requires a cover letter that showcases how her past experiences will be beneficial in her new role. Use this cover letter. Zoom.

  21. How to Write a Resume

    How to write a cover letter alongside a resume. As you consider how to write a resume, you should not forget to consider the advantages of pairing it with a well-written cover letter. In actual fact, employers will request a cover letter the vast majority of the time.

  22. Basic Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

    How To Write a Basic Resume. Gather your experience, skills, and education information to create a basic resume. Make a list of your recent jobs and what you did at each. Think about the value you brought to those organizations, and brainstorm a list of skills you have relevant to the job you want. Then, use a resume template to present all ...

  23. Free Cover Letter Template for Your Resume (Copy & Paste)

    Each basic template is free to download (compatible with Microsoft Word and Google Docs), and will help you create the perfect cover letter for whatever job you apply for. The Classic. "The Classic" cover letter template is clean, traditional, and the perfect format to start off your application. Chicago.

  24. How to Write a Cover Letter For an Internship (+5 Real Examples)

    Address the recipient appropriately. If you know the recipient's name, address them by " Dear [full name] ," or " Dear Mrs/Mr [last name] ,". If you don't know who to address the cover letter to, address it more generally to "Dear Hiring Manager," . Introduce yourself and your motivations in the opening paragraph.

  25. How to Write an Effective Application Letter [with Example & Tips]

    A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Perfect Application Letter. Let's learn how to write an application letter for a job with a step-by-step guide that'll show you how to craft every part of it. #1. Research the Company. Researching the company is the first step before you even start writing your application letter.

  26. How to Write your Work Experience on a Resume [+ Examples]

    Focus on results of your job history in the past. Only list work experience on a resume that is relevant to the job you're applying to. Stand out with strong action verbs. Get specific: use numbers, facts, and figures. Speak in the past tense when the job is complete, present when you're still doing the work.

  27. What is a Letter of Intent? How to Write One for a Job [+ Examples]

    Here's a step-by-step process for writing your LOI draft: 1. Provide your contact information. At the top of your LOI, you'll want to provide contact information so your recipient can contact you about future opportunities. This can include your phone number, email, and address. 2.

  28. How to Write an Objective for a Resume

    How to Write an Objective for a Resume. Story by Hallie Crawford. • 5mo • 4 min read. Use these tips to stand out from the crowd and land the job.

  29. Customer Service Representative Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

    Profile. A Customer Service Representative with four years of experience specializing in sales, communication, and client relations. Adept at delivering quality service to diverse customers and managing high call volumes efficiently to ensure satisfaction. 2. Add your customer service representative experience with compelling examples.

  30. How to Write a Letter of Application (Example & Tips)

    No hard numbers. "I worked in a team and provided customer service to elderly residents". 5. Choose engaging words for your application letter. Your letter of application's length should be 250 to 400 words or 3 to 4 paragraphs — long enough to get your point across but short enough that the reader won't lose interest.