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Sample Career Change Cover Letter and Writing Tips

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  • Writing a Career Change Cover Letter

Career Change Cover Letter Sample

How to send an email cover letter.

  • Refocus Your Resume to Match

The Balance / Chelsea Damraksa

Are you considering a career change? If you are looking for a position in a different industry or career field, your cover letter or  letter of intent  is an important factor in the likelihood of your getting the job.

Since your resume may not contain the relevant experience that hiring managers are looking for, it's important to use your cover letter as an opportunity to demonstrate why you are a good fit despite lacking that specific employment history.

A well-written and strong cover letter will convince the reader that your work experience is a strength rather than a weakness.

Before you start writing, though, be sure you're clear on your goals for transitioning careers and that you're  positioned for a successful career change job search .

Tips for Writing a Career Change Cover Letter

Any good cover letter explains why you are qualified for the specific job. However, a cover letter written during a  career change  needs to go beyond that.

Be sure to thoroughly  research the company  before writing your cover letter so you can convince the employer that you understand the company and can demonstrate why you want to be a part of it.

You must touch on three important points. This will help you rise above candidates who have more direct experience in the industry. You don’t necessarily have to cover all of these topics in order or in distinct paragraphs. The aim is to make sure you communicate these points somewhere in your letter.

1. Emphasize Your Transferable Skills

Most importantly, focus on the  transferable skills  you have that you can use in the new position rather than on the skills you have that are only related to your current role. Analyze the job description for the position you’re applying to, and look at the skills that the position calls for.

Choose the  ones that best match your own skills or experience . Then, if possible, use specific anecdotes from your work or academic history to illustrate some of these strengths in action. 

2. Highlight Your Superior Performance in Previous Positions

Other applicants may have the relevant experience, but if their experience is mediocre and cannot be backed up by strong references or tangible achievements, you may actually be a more desirable candidate for the job than they are.

In your letter, do your best to explain how you succeeded in previous roles, and connect that to a summary of how you would also add value in this new position.

Make sure your references will corroborate your statements.

3. Express Your Passion for the Company

Mention your passion for the company. This is another way to stand out from qualified candidates. Employers may be more interested in someone who is especially excited about their organization and the job opportunity than they are in someone who just wants a job and doesn’t care about much beyond that. In your cover letter, make it clear that you’re familiar with the organization and enthusiastic about the opportunity to be a part of it.

Read the sample cover letter below, which you can use as a framework for writing your own career change cover letter. However, be sure to edit the sample to fit your personal experiences and the job for which you are applying.

Download the career change cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).

Sample Career Change Cover Letter (Text Version)

William Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 111-111-1111 william.applicant@email.com

July 21, 2020

Michael Lee Director XYZ Company 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321 

Dear Ms. Lee:

This letter is to express my special interest in discussing the Senior Customer Service Manager position posted on the XYZ Company web site. The opportunity presented in this listing is very appealing, and I believe that my experience and education will make me a competitive candidate for this role.

Although I have been working primarily as an Operations Manager, in this capacity I have interfaced frequently with customers, in addition to vendors and staff. This has instilled multi-dimensional communication skills and an ability to recognize, act upon, and fulfill customer wishes and needs in order to ensure their continued, and positive, relationship with the business.

In fact, in my most recent job as Operations Manager for ABC Company, I received an ‘Excellence in Customer Service’ recognition due to my ability to coordinate complex logistics in order to keep customers happy even when issues arose that were beyond the control of the organization. Again, this involved not only managing operations but also communicating directly with customers. As a result, I believe my combined ability to successfully manage operations while also effectively interfacing with customers makes me a prime candidate for this role.

The key strengths that I possess for success in this position include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Provide exceptional contributions to customer service for all customers. 
  • Strive for continued excellence.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Eager to learn new things.

You will find me to be well-spoken, energetic, confident, and personable, the type of person on whom your customers will rely. I also have a wide breadth of experience of the type that will allow you the versatility to place me in a number of contexts with confidence that the level of excellence you expect will be met. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.

I hope that you'll find my experience and interests intriguing enough to warrant a face-to-face meeting, as I am confident that I could provide value to you and your customers as a member of your team. I am very excited about this opportunity to work for XYZ Company. I connect with your mission to “deliver the ‘five star’ factor” to both your staff and your customers. This tenet is reflected in my own professional and personal values, and I believe this alignment strongly supports my candidacy for this role.

I can be reached anytime via my cell phone, 555-555-5555. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.

William Applicant (signature hard copy letter)

William 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. Simply start your email message with the salutation.

Refocus Your Resume to Reflect Your New Goals

When you're seeking a career change, it's important to refocus your resume to reflect your new goals. That way, your resume and cover letter will both show that you're well qualified for a change in roles. Here are six tips for  writing a powerful career change resume  that will help you get started.

Get Ready to Interview

Be prepared, as well, to discuss in job interviews why you're transitioning and what  skills you will bring to prospective employers . It's important to have a comprehensive and professional pitch that will impress the employer and convince them that you're a strong candidate for the job.

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How to write an impactful cover letter for a career change

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How to write a cover letter for a career change

Career change cover letter examples.

8 tips to write a successful career change cover letter

Learning to navigate career changes

As a job seeker, your primary objective is to stand out from every other candidate — and writing a strong cover letter is a great way to do this.

But if you’re trying to change careers, it might seem more complicated. Crafting a compelling letter for a career change needs to put your best foot forward while explaining how your experience and transferable skills make you the best fit. 

Luckily, like any application, cover letters give you a unique opportunity to make a strong first impression on a prospective employer. They’re your opportunity to spin a perceived drawback into a valuable asset, showing hiring managers your unique perspective and ability to make a change.

Let’s start with the basics. Like any other professional communication, every word of your career change cover letter counts. Your relevant skill set, work experience, and communication style let a recruiter, hiring manager, or potential supervisor know what it’ll be like to work with you. 

Here’s how to use your cover letter to make an impact: 

1. Start with a powerful introduction

The first few lines of your cover letter set the tone and pique your reader's interest (or spur disinterest). Skip generic introductions and aim for an opening line that quickly encapsulates the value you can bring to the new job. It can also reflect your unique personality, within reason.

Don’t be shy about identifying yourself as a career changer. It’s an opportunity to showcase important soft skills — such as courage, intellectual curiosity , and a resilient mindset — and connect relevant experiences with valuable transferable skills . With the right framing, it may be the key to standing out as an interesting candidate.

Here’s an example: “As a seasoned journalist, I’m eager to transition into public relations. I've spent the last 20 years sharpening my critical-thinking, research, and copywriting skills, which will serve me well in this new role.”

2. Develop your full character

Your opening paragraph should include your previous role and new career ambition. Next, it’s time to offer a glimpse of your professional drive and explain in more detail what you bring to a career switch, especially if you’ve been upskilling, taking classes, or attending trainings. This is an opportunity to blend your established reputation with your new career goals. If you’re making the change to pursue your passion or do more meaningful work, putting that fact on diisplay creates a fuller image of your personal values , mission, and vision for the future. 

For example: “I currently manage a team of 50 sales representatives in the constantly evolving healthcare sector. The most fascinating and fulfilling part of my job has always been developing a deep understanding of my client’s needs. Acting as a bridge to better service, consulting with them about updating their tools and training to focus on providing excellent treatment to their patients is so rewarding. I’m excited by the prospect of leveraging my social skills and years of experience working directly with healthcare providers to move into software development for the healthcare sector.” 

3. Show some emotion

woman-channeling-her-emotions-to-write-a-career-change-letter

Carefully placed action verbs and feelings help make your experience jump off the page. Potential employers aren’t just looking for a list of key skills — they want to imagine the person behind them. Choose language that conveys enthusiasm, drive, and work motivation , like “I’ve always been passionate about problem-solving and teamwork” or “I immediately connected with your company’s vision and commitment to sustainability.” 

4. Describe your past performance

Your successes in previous roles are the best predictor of the meaningful work you’ll accomplish in the next one — even if you’re moving to a new industry. Focus on accomplishments that demonstrate flexibility and a learning mindset to help the hiring manager envision a successful transition. You need to make the most out of your letter of interest , portfolio , and resume, so put the highlights on your resume and tell the story in your cover letter. 

For instance: “I oversaw a project to automate sales tracking systems, working with our tech team to evaluate the best strategies for the sales department. The project improved efficiency by 25% and decreased overhead costs by 15%.” 

Metrics quantify the value of your growth mindset and show off important skills like team collaboration , project management , and adaptability. 

5. Align your skills with the job description

Even if you’re at the height of your career, a hiring manager needs to know you can bridge the gap between your current role and the new position. Pay careful attention to the soft and hard skills they mention in the job posting and work them into your career transition cover letter. Don’t embellish for the sake of standing out, but do highlight the skills you can back up with valuable, direct experience. 

6. Write a memorable closing

Your closing is your opportunity to reiterate your excitement about the job opening. Adjectives like “eager,” “excited,” and “thrilled” demonstrate you’re ready to hit the ground running. 

Additionally, your cover letter for switching careers should invite further dialogue with a call to action. For example: “I’m eager to learn more about the role and look forward to sharing how I can bring my unique perspective and years of experience in [industry] to your organization.” 

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Before digging into your resume or cover letter, a potential employer may peruse your job application or LinkedIn profile to understand your value as a candidate. Your cover letter is your first opportunity to turn a list of skills and experiences into a well-rounded picture of your character. 

The best cover letters balance highlighting your unique personality and perspective with proving you have what it takes to fill the job description. While your letter should represent you, you don’t have to start from scratch. Instead, build your own using a basic structure and templates for inspiration. You can also ask ChatGPT to generate a first draft for you with strategic prompts .

Here’s a general career change cover letter sample to consider:

Dear [hiring manager’s name], 

Thank you for considering my application for [ prospective job title] at [company name]. 

I’ve spent the last [years of experience] learning the ins and outs of [current industry], where I currently work as a [most recent job title]. I gravitated toward [industry] because of my passion for [the factors that pushed you to your current career]. The most fulfilling part of my career has been [transferable skills relevant to the new job posting]. I’ve built my expertise around [relevant skills], which were instrumental in accomplishing [a notable achievement or project]. 

I’m excited to transition into a new career chapter and follow my calling in [new field]. Reading about your company, I immediately connected with [core value]. I’m thrilled by the prospect of contributing [your vision or skills] and am eager to apply my unique perspective as a [current job title] in a new context. 

Attached is my resume. I’m eager to learn more about the company and how my background aligns with your needs.

I look forward to the opportunity to continue the conversation. 

Sincerely, 

[Your name]

When changing careers, you may feel worried about potential red flags in your resume, like career gaps or lack of direct experience . While your technical abilities are important, many recruiters and hiring managers prioritize soft skills , like leadership, critical thinking, and communication. Here’s a cover letter that balances proven soft skills and highlights your excitement to fill the gaps: 

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for [prospective job title] at [company name]. While I’ve developed my career in [industry], my enthusiasm for [relevant interest] combined with my proven [relevant transferable skills] has prepared me for this career path. 

Over the last [years of experience], I’ve cultivated a solid foundation in [relevant skills], which mirror the dynamic demands of [new industry]. 

I’m attracted to [new industry] because of [your interest or inspiration to switch to a new field]. The [specific aspect of your new field] that [company name] embodies deeply resonates with my personal values and professional aspirations. I’ve spent the last [months or years] learning [valuable technical skills or industry knowledge] through [examples of learning experiences, such as a class, seminar, or networking opportunity]. 

Attached is my resume, which underscores my transferable skills and [relevant coursework or certifications]. 

I’m confident that my adaptability, dedication to quality work, and passion for learning position me to hit the ground running and become a strong asset to your team. I look forward to discussing how my excitement and skill set align with your objectives. 

8 tips to write a successful career change cover letter 

a-man-celebrating-after-succesfully-writing-a-letter-for-a-career-change

Now that you have some cover letter examples for changing careers, let’s get into the fine print. Here are eight tips to help your career change cover letter lead to an interview: 

  • Address the letter to the right person: General salutations — like “Dear hiring manager” — may give the impression you’re copying and pasting the same cover letter across several job postings. Likewise, it signals to the reader that you lacked the initiative and dedication to find out more about the role and the hiring team beyond what’s in a brief job posting. Take the time to learn the hiring manager's name and use it to kick off communications. 
  • Keep things short: The objective of your cover letter is to spark a hiring manager’s interest and encourage them to read your resume . Keep your cover letter to a few well-curated paragraphs that balance your unique value with the requisites for the job role. 
  • Research, research, research: The company’s website, social media, and other branded materials can provide insight into the organization’s mission and core values. Aligning your vision with the company’s is a great way to capture a hiring manager’s attention and let them know you fit the company culture .
  • Explain your reasons for changing careers: The courage to take a chance on yourself and switch careers speaks volumes about your character. It’s nothing to shy away from. Highlight the reasons you decided to make the difficult career decision —  your resilience, fortitude, and decisiveness can provide a competitive advantage over more traditional candidates. 
  • Mention new skills: Highlight how you’ve learned about your new industry, acquired technical skills, and prepared for the career switch. Whether it’s a one-day seminar or several months with a career coach , your drive for personal and professional development helps make your case for a smooth transition into a new industry. 
  • Source references: Having a list of professional references and their contact information ready to send to a hiring manager is always a good idea. Carefully choose colleagues who can speak to your passion for your new industry and ability to adapt to change.
  • Align all your communications: Consistency and clarity are important to hiring managers. When your LinkedIn profile, letter of intent , and resume have mismatched skills and work experience, the person reading them may pass you over for a candidate with a profile that’s easier to understand and imagine in the role. Double-check that all your information is up-to-date and consistent across all platforms and lines of communication. 
  • Proofread : An enthralling story about your decision to dive into a new field can be thwarted by a misspelled word or poorly placed comma. Spelling and grammar errors can jeopardize your chances of an interview — hiring managers may worry that a lack of attention to detail could show up in more important areas of your work performance. If you’re not a natural copy editor, double-check your work with a proofreading app like Grammarly.

Learning to navigate career changes 

A career change is a big life decision , no matter where you are in your professional journey. After you’ve settled into your niche, shaking things up at 30, changing careers at 40 or following a new calling in your 50s might feel increasingly overwhelming. 

But it’s never too late to embrace change. Your professional life occupies a big part of your time, energy, and personal identity. You deserve to feel fulfilled — even if that means choosing a road less traveled. Carefully crafting a cover letter for a career change is an effective way to capture a hiring manager's attention from the jump and move one step closer to an exciting new opportunity. 

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Elizabeth Perry

Content Marketing Manager, ACC

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How To Write the Best Career Change Cover Letter

Switching careers can feel like embarking on a journey into uncharted territory — this is particularly true in the tech industry , where a career change often means navigating an entirely different set of digital tools, work processes, responsibilities, and skills. 

You may have prepared yourself for the challenges ahead, furthered your education, and even identified job postings you believe to be a great fit. But without an excellent career change cover letter, your new professional journey could be stalled before it even begins!

Hiring managers only look at resumes for seven seconds before deciding whether to proceed with the application. So, your cover letter has to make an immediate and lasting impression. 

To help you land the job you’ve been dreaming of, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on career change cover letters.

Here are the topics we’ll explore —feel free to skip around to the sections that interest you most:

  • What makes it a career change cover letter?
  • How to write a career change cover letter in 8 steps

Career change cover letter example: UX design

  • Career change cover letter example: Frontend development
  • Key takeaways

1. What makes it a career change cover letter?

Before we look at the format and structure of the cover letter, let’s clarify something: it may seem obvious, but what distinguishes traditional cover letters from those written by career changers?

The key difference lies in the way you present yourself and the story you tell. A career change cover letter must demonstrate three main things:

  • Your understanding of the job and industry,
  • your existing skills and experience, and
  • how those can be applied to the new position.

This can be done in several ways, but the most effective cover letters strike a balance between emphasizing transferable skills , demonstrating adaptability, and highlighting your motivation for the career transition. 

Unlike traditional cover letters, they can also address potential concerns about your experience, showcasing your ability to transcend the boundaries of one professional field and excel in another.

2. How to write a career change cover letter in 8 steps

Writing winning cover letters is an art that requires practice, and career-change-specific cover letters are even trickier to tackle. But thankfully, you can follow a few best practices to create a compelling document that will make it easier for potential employers to imagine you in the new role.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of writing an effective cover letter for your career switch, from the opening line to the closing paragraph. So, grab a pen or open up your favorite word processor and write that first draft using the following tips:

1. Address the right person

To avoid using the impersonal salutation, “Dear hiring manager,” take the time to research who will be reading your cover letter. 

If the job ad doesn’t include a name, try searching for the company’s website or LinkedIn page and go to the employees’ section to track down the right person and job title. For example, if you’re applying for a UX designer role , search for “Director of UX Design,” “Creative Director,” or similar.

2. Introduce yourself with a hook

Begin your cover letter with an engaging opening that captures the reader’s attention. 

This could be a statement of your intent, a specific project you’ve recently completed, or a personal connection to the industry that demonstrates your passion and motivation for the career switch. This will set you apart from other candidates and create a memorable first impression.

3. Explain why you’re changing careers

To address your career change head-on, provide a clear rationale for the shift by sharing your personal career change story. For example, you could highlight your enthusiasm for the new field, noting what attracted you to it and any relevant experiences or interests supporting your decision. 

Then, use the power of personal branding to infuse the letter with your unique voice, personality, and vision, focusing on the value you can bring to the new sector. This transparency shows employers you’ve thoughtfully considered the move.

4. Demonstrate understanding of the company

Demonstrate your genuine interest in the organization by showing that you’ve thoroughly researched the company. You can achieve this by discussing its mission statement, values, and recent accomplishments. 

Align your skills, background, and career goals with the company’s objectives to showcase your potential fit within its corporate culture. Doing so will convey your enthusiasm for the role and the organization, increasing your chances of standing out as a suitable candidate.

5. Detail why you’re a great match

A personalized cover letter should also explain why you’re a strong candidate for the position in question. This means identifying the unique qualities that set you apart from other candidates, whether that’s your adaptability, problem-solving abilities, or valuable soft skills that can be applied across various industries. 

Use real-world examples to demonstrate how your skills and past experiences align with the job requirements, and mention how these traits can benefit the company in the long run.

6. Showcase transferable skills

One of the key objectives of your career change cover letter is to demonstrate your value to potential employers in your new field. To do this effectively, pinpoint the skills you’ve acquired in your previous career that are transferable to the new role. 

Use specific examples to illustrate how you’ve applied these skills in different contexts and how they are relevant to your new position. By showcasing your relevant skills and experience, you can effectively demonstrate to employers that you have what it takes to excel in your new career path.

7. Mention relevant professional development

List any skills and knowledge you’ve gained through relevant courses, certifications, or training to showcase your commitment to learning and willingness to invest in your career transition. 

This will set you apart from other aspiring career changers, prove your enthusiasm for the role and help paint a picture of what you can bring to the new position. Doing due diligence upfront will make it easier for potential employers to imagine you in the new role and increase the chances of securing an interview.

8. Conclude on a positive note

When concluding your career change cover letter, it’s essential to end it enthusiastically. For example, name one way you can add value to the company and link it to your overall career vision. 

Finally, thank the hiring manager for considering your application and express your excitement about joining the team. Doing so will show you’re committed to the role and motivated to make a success of your career transition.

3. Career change cover letters example

Want to see cover letter examples that nail these key points? Check out these two samples, written specifically for career changers in the tech sector. Best practice for the email subject line? Put the job title from the job ad along with your full name. 

Career change cover letter: Frontend development

4. key takeaways.

Writing a convincing cover letter that highlights your skills for a role you’re hoping to transition into is an essential step in the job application process. 

A thoughtfully crafted career change cover letter can be the reason why employers take a second look at your resume, despite your limited experience in the new field.

In this article, we’ve gone through the basics of what makes a career change cover letter unique and how to write one tailored to your experience and goals. We’ve also looked at practical tips for structuring your letter and provided examples for your inspiration. 

We hope this guide will give you the confidence to write a standout cover letter and put your best foot forward when applying for jobs.

Looking for more tech-specific application support? Check out our practical guide to crafting the best tech resume , complete with valuable tips and real-world examples.

For further education support on your career change journey, try our free tech short courses ,  or speak directly with a program advisor.

With the help of expert instructors, personalized feedback, and a wealth of learning resources, you’ll soon be ready to tackle even the most complex challenges future employers might throw at you. 

Enjoyed this blog post? We think you’ll like these, too:

  • How To Successfully Change Careers in 2024: Your Step-by-Step Guide
  • The Top 5 Transferable Skills and How They Can Help You
  • How to Build a Personal Brand for Your Tech Career
  • Cover Letter Tips

How To Write the Best Career Change Cover Letter (+ Examples) 

Charlotte Grainger

So, you want to try something completely new? When you’re thinking about a career change, your cover letter is an essential tool. Your resume will tell the hiring manager about your experience, but you’ll use the cover letter to fill in the blanks.

Frankly, when you're changing careers, you have to work just a bit harder than any other applicants with a more intuitive work history. That means showing that the experience you have is an asset and that it can be transferred to this new role. Luckily, you can do all of this (and more!) by writing a well-thought-out career change cover letter. 

A career change cover letter is an opportunity to start a conversation to explain exactly why you're applying for a job outside of your current field. Get this right, and you will convince any hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job. But how do you get started?

Here at ZipJob, we give you the resources you need to supercharge your job search. In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips from our professional resume writers on how to write the best career change cover letter. We've also got a career change cover letter example for you to check out.

More common than you might think

First, a word of encouragement: In our fast-paced and rapidly changing economy, people are changing careers at rates that would have been unthinkable just a few short generations ago. In fact, recent statistics show that people have an average of 12 jobs in their lifetime. 

That can create problems for many applicants, however, and you may not be sure how you can use your resume to properly convey the right experience needed for your new career. The good news is that you can take care of that concern by using that other vital application tool: the cover letter.

7 tips for your career change cover letter

Ready to put pen to paper? When you're writing a career change cover letter, it's important to stay on task. This isn't the place to write a heart-to-heart that reads more like a journal entry than a professional document. Instead, focus on what makes you a great applicant. 

To help you along the way, we have some expert-backed tips below:

1. Make sure you use the right words

Changing careers is a big deal. While your resume will have covered your skills and experience, you can use this letter to really sell yourself to the hiring manager. What you lack in experience, you may be able to make up for in the willingness to learn.

While you can use your cover letter to explain why you want a new career, it doesn’t start and end there. This is also an opportunity to share why you are ready to switch things up. With that in mind, use words that excite the hiring manager and show your desire to work in your chosen field. The more creative you are with the language you use, the better here.

2. Be honest about your career change

The biggest mistake you could make here is trying to sneak your way into a new sector. The hiring manager already has your resume, so they know that you don’t have experience in this field. You should never try to bamboozle them into interviewing you on the basis of faux experience. Even if you do make it to the interview level, you will soon get found out. 

Instead, you need to be 100% honest about your career change. Direct your cover letter to the hiring manager and be clear about why you are switching industries. For example, you may have reached the highest heights in your current sector and feel it’s time for a change. On the other hand, you may have a real passion for this new field and want to pursue it. 

Whatever your reason is, now is the time to talk about it. You don’t need to write a short memoir. The hiring manager will ask you more in-depth questions at the interview stage. However, it’s smart to outline your reasoning here so that you fill in the blanks. State that you are looking to move sectors and try to give a compelling reason to the reader now.

3. Emphasize your transferable skills

When you’re writing a career change cover letter, this is vital. Transferable skills are your current talents that would help you succeed in a different position. These skills are often soft skills but may also be technical or analytical skills from your previous profession. Identify what your strengths are. How might those help you in another industry?

You can also approach this from the other side by spending some time analyzing the company’s needs. Look at the job description, the company website, and recent media coverage to identify the core skills that this company requires. Once you’ve honed in on those needs, you can determine which of your skills can help to make you a great candidate for the job.

Of course, you should heavily feature your transferable skills on your resume. Once you've noted them, you can offer more of an explanation in your cover letter about how each skill will apply to this new job. 

Emphasize your relevant skills within the body of the career change cover letter too. That means including specific examples of how they have helped you to achieve certain results and goals in the past. Show the hiring manager what you have to bring to the table. You can do this by identifying the overlap between your two fields and highlighting it clearly. Be brief, but be sure to answer why you're applying and why you're worth interviewing.

Key Takeaway

The key to a career change cover letter is to identify and highlight related and transferable skills.

4. Focus on your results

Results matter more than you think. The number one thing that will push you ahead of your competition are fantastic accomplishments on your resume . Your accomplishments are still valid, even when changing careers: awards, honors, and other results that show you're a high-achieving employee will make you look like a winner. 

Your career change cover letter gives you a chance to explain why it's so impressive that you accomplished something. Try to figure out numbers or metrics – these really stand out on resumes and cover letters. Quantifying your results will show the hiring manager that your hard work achieves big things. This fact will surely grab their attention. 

To showcase those results, you need to emphasize the success that you’ve enjoyed in prior jobs, providing details that help to connect those successes to your transferable skills. From there, you only need to complete the picture by explaining how your prior achievements and transferable skills can offer tangible benefits to the new company.

Always use the STAR method

Showcasing your results and quantifying them doesn’t have to be hard. Make your statements stand out by using the STAR method throughout your cover letter. 

5. Demonstrate genuine passion

Let your passion for the company be on full display so that the hiring manager knows you care about getting the position. Mention something new or interesting the company has accomplished, or relate to the company's core values. You can add your personality to your cover letter – as long as it stays relevant!

Take the time to do your homework so that you have a firm understanding of what the company does and how it hopes to achieve its goal. It’s also worth trying to understand the company culture ahead of time. That will enable you to properly convey your passion for the position in the body of your cover letter. In short, figure out what the vibe is and match it.

6. Tailor your resume to reflect your career change goals

If this is your first time creating a career change cover letter, be sure to review your resume when you’re done so that everything is properly coordinated. It all needs to match up. You don’t want any inconsistencies between those two important documents: your cover letter should only talk about experiences that are also mentioned on your resume.

To keep your message clear, make any resume changes that are needed to keep it aligned with the message on your cover letter. Remember, it’s the little things that often make the difference between success and failure. 

If your resume isn't tailored for your career transition goals, check out this article next: How To Tailor Your Resume For Different Positions

7. End with a strong conclusion 

When you’ve done all of the above, it’s time to sign off. The end of your cover letter is a good chance to reaffirm why you want to take this step. You may also want to add that you will help the business in question meet its goals. One of the more critical things you can do with your career change cover letter is insert some type of call to action – encouraging the reader to reach out to you. 

Remember, the hiring manager will naturally slow their reading pace down as they reach the bottom of the page. For that reason, it is vital that you end on a strong and clear note.

Career change cover letter example

Changing Careers Cover Letter Example

This example is to the point and easy to scan through. It has several examples of how the applicant has added value in the past, using numbers that are easy for the reader to translate to a different industry.

Notice also that this letter – like all good cover letters – includes a professional heading and uses a business letter format. It is highly specific, a quick but clear message that you've put some thought into tailoring your cover letter. 

The letter does not use a generic "to whom it may concern" greeting; ideally, you can find the name of the hiring manager. When in doubt, addressing your letter to a "hiring team" is a good alternative.

The heading with your own information was borrowed from the updated resume format we used to share 200+ resume examples written by our professional resume writers. Using the same format for your resume and cover letter is another instance of details that stand out.

Focus on value; win the day 

As you can see, the cover letter for a career change is similar to many others. You still want to focus on the value you can add to the company. By emphasizing your transferable skills, focusing on past achievements, and demonstrating your interest in the new company, you should be able to leverage your existing skill set in a way that sets you apart from the crowd.

Ready to take the leap and start that new career? Use the ZipJob free resume review now to get the insights that you need to perfect your next application and get ahead of the competition. 

Recommended reading: 

9 Cover Letter Mistakes That Cost You Interviews - ZipJob

7 Signs It's Time To Quit Your Job

How to Ask for a Job Referral + 5 Examples

Charlotte Grainger, Editor & Content Writer, Charlotte Grainger, Editor & Content Writer

Charlotte Grainger is a freelance writer living and working in Sheffield, UK. She has a passion for career development and loves sharing tips and advice. Follow her on Twitter

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5 Career Change Cover Letter Examples Made for 2024

Stephen Greet

  • Career Change Cover Letter
  • Career Change No Experience
  • HR Career Change
  • Teacher Career Change
  • RN Career Change Cover Letter
  • Write Your Career Change Cover Letter

Switching careers can be equal parts exciting and daunting. You’re stepping into a whole new path, facing unknown challenges, and rebuilding your personal brand from scratch. There’s a lot at stake here, and to fight this battle and come out on top, you need to pick the right set of weapons.

Step one: a stellar  career change resume  tailored to match the job. Step two, however, is more challenging because you must also wow recruiters with a cover letter expressing your excitement at a career change and for the company.

We’re here to help you navigate these murky waters and set the course for the career of your dreams. Our career change  cover letter examples  will help you craft a memorable job application.

cover letter for job transition

Career Change Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

career change cover letter template

Why this cover letter works

  • For instance, this cover letter points to ways the candidate took initiative to connect sales and marketing. This evidences both interest and experience in the target role.

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifiting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Career Change No Experience Cover Letter Example

Career change no experience cover letter template

  • Take, for instance, how Aria tells the story of her expertise—meticulous data analysis, project management, and problem-solving and convincingly discusses how these can be valuable assets for the new role. So, extract and communicate those transferable skills.

Human Resources Career Change Cover Letter Example

Human resources career change cover letter template

  • Such competencies demonstrate that although it’s a career change, you aren’t a stranger to the environment. If the past stints involved the hiring company’s competitor, emphasize that for bonus familiarity points.

Teacher Career Change Cover Letter Example

Teacher career change cover letter template

  • If you’ve earned professional certifications that don’t match your current role but align with your target career, your cover letter is the place to highlight them.

Registered Nurse (RN) Career Change Cover Letter Example

Registered Nurse (RN) career change cover letter template

  • Look for unlikely connections between your work experience and target role, then put the pieces together for recruiters in your cover letter.

Related cover letter examples

  • Graphic designer

How to Write a Fantastic Career Change Cover Letter

Job seeker stands with hands in air, questioning how to fill out job materials

You may think that you’re at a disadvantage when you’re applying outside of your previous career, but when it comes to cover letters, that’s not true. Treat this as an excellent opportunity to be creative and stand out from the crowd.

Here’s the trick: give that job description a good read, then whip your cover letter into shape to mirror it. Try to decipher the company’s core values, be it from the job listing or from its website, and highlight that this mission is important to you too. 

Pinpoint similarities across your past and future roles for this. For instance, if you’re switching from teaching to programming, emphasize your ability to explain complex topics to all kinds of audiences.

cover letter for job transition

Writing a winning cover letter intro

The perfect cover letter begins with a personalized greeting that addresses the hiring manager by name. However, if you absolutely cannot find the recipient (try LinkedIn), you can use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company Name] Team.” Refrain from using “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam,” as those can be a little outdated by today’s standards.

Avoid generic starters and instead showcase why your past experience is valuable. For instance, if you previously worked in sales and you’re moving to customer service, highlight your ability to forge lasting relationships with clients.

Check out this example of what not to do below. This opening line is definitely on the uninteresting side—the hiring manager might skim your cover letter if it lacks a proper hook.

No, thank you!

“I am writing to apply for the project manager position I saw on your website. I believe this role is a great fit for me.”

Now, the example below is a huge improvement. The applicant immediately makes it clear that they used to have a different career, but they use this to their advantage by highlighting how their background in working with people can have a deep impact on their new career.

Hooked from the start!

I was inspired to transition my career from nursing into sales when I discovered the impact I could make by connecting people with the right product solutions. I am eager to bring my RN background, where relationship-building is paramount, and my skill set in sales forecasting to American Express as a sales manager.

cover letter for job transition

Writing the main part of your cover letter

Roll up your sleeves because we’re diving into the main part of your cover letter—the body. Use this space as an extension of your resume that elaborates on your skills and the way they can make an impact on the company. 

Find common ground and share some of your greatest achievements that translate well to your new role. For example, if you’re a marketer transitioning into sales, discuss how spearheading a social media campaign increased your company’s revenue by 18%. 

Use metrics to support your accomplishments. Things like revenue, ROI, click-through rates, open rates, customer satisfaction ratings, budget savings, or efficiency improvements all apply to most industries. Much like in the intro, connect your background to match the company.

Here’s a body paragraph for inspiration:

In addition to teaching high school math, I have taught myself web and mobile development, database management, and the version control system Git. I am certified in AWS and Google Cloud, and built an educational app that streamlined school communication, improving homework submission rates by 23%.

cover letter for job transition

Ending your cover letter on a strong note

The closing paragraph is the ribbon that you tie on top of a cohesive whole. It serves to reinforce the sentiments you talked about above—but without repeating yourself.

Emphasize your excitement at joining this particular company, and make sure to mention it by name. Pick one or two of your core skills or qualifications and flex a little—express how you will use these abilities to achieve positive outcomes at your new company.

You’re changing industries, so own it, and explain how, for instance, your knowledge of math can help you write complex code.

Lastly, thank the hiring manager for their consideration—you can do this either in the closing paragraph or in your final sign-off. Dot your i’s and cross your t’s with a respectful “Sincerely, [Your Name].”

It’s important to keep this final part respectful. Don’t assume you’ll be hired—instead of showing confidence, it can come off as presumptuous.

“I’m not experienced but I’m a quick learner, so I can’t wait to start growing my career at your company next month.”

This next example has it all—it reiterates your interest in the role, talks about transferable skills, and thanks the recruiter for taking the time to read your cover letter.

This is the way!

I would be thrilled to meet and discuss how my transition from sales to marketing can drive impactful strategies at Comcast. Thank you for considering my application.

When transitioning careers, it’s important to build credibility out of the gate by addressing the right person. Check the job listing and the company website. If that fails, try identifying the hiring manager via LinkedIn.

If all else fails, talk mostly about your education and preparation for the career change, but there are skills that apply to most jobs, too. For instance, working as a programmer and a travel agent means dealing with data and interacting with people.

While you may rely on transferable skills you used in nursing in your future sales role, avoid assuming this new job will have a similar company culture as your last one. Instead, adjust your tone to match the company. For instance, if the job ad and the website are written with humor, you can afford to crack a small joke or write less formally.

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Status.net

How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter [Examples]

By Status.net Editorial Team on August 31, 2023 — 21 minutes to read

  • Key Elements of a Career Change Cover Letter Part 1
  • How to Highlight Your Transferable Skills Part 2
  • Relating Your Career Change to Your New Role Part 3
  • Using Accomplishments to Sell Your Skills Part 4
  • How to Target Your Cover Letter to the Company Part 5
  • How to Format Your Career Change Cover Letter Part 6
  • Template of a Career Change Cover Letter Part 7
  • Examples of Career Change Cover Letters Part 8
  • How to Write an Effective Opening and Closing Paragraph Part 9
  • Best Practices Part 10

Part 1 Key Elements of a Career Change Cover Letter

Opening paragraph.

Begin your career change cover letter with a strong opening paragraph to grab the reader’s attention. Clearly state your intention to change careers and specify the job you’re applying for. Mention how you came across the opportunity (e.g., through a job ad or company website). Briefly highlight your passion for the new role and the company.

“As a seasoned marketing professional with over 10 years of experience, I am excited to apply for the position of Human Resources Manager. After careful consideration and self-reflection, I have come to the realization that my true passion lies in helping organizations build and develop their most valuable asset: their people. When I saw the job posting for this role, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to pursue my passion for HR.”

“I am writing to express my interest in the position of Junior Software Engineer at ABC Tech. Although my background is in finance and accounting, I have always been fascinated by the world of technology and have been teaching myself to code in my spare time.”

“I am thrilled to apply for the position of Interior Designer at DEF Design. As a former teacher, I have always had a passion for creating inspiring and functional spaces that promote learning and creativity. After years of helping my friends and family with their home decor projects, I have decided to make a career change and pursue my dream of becoming an interior designer. When I saw the job posting for this role, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to take the leap and start a new chapter in my career.”

In the body of your cover letter, focus on showcasing your transferable skills and achievements that make you a strong fit for the new role. Discuss your relevant skills and experience you’ve gained from your current or previous jobs. Emphasize your soft skills and communication skills that can be applied across industries. For example:

  • Transferable skills : Outline skills that can be applied to the new role, such as project management, problem-solving, and collaboration.
  • Achievements : Describe your accomplishments from your current position and how they relate to the new job.
  • Relevant experience : Explain any relevant experience or training you’ve had that supports your career change.

Try to connect your skills and experience to the specific job ad, highlighting how you can add value to the company.

“As a marketing professional, I have developed a range of transferable skills that I believe would make me an excellent fit for the Human Resources Manager position at XYZ Company. In my current role, I have honed my project management skills by leading cross-functional teams to execute successful marketing campaigns. I am also skilled at problem-solving, having navigated complex challenges such as budget constraints and shifting market trends. Additionally, my experience collaborating with internal and external stakeholders has taught me the importance of clear communication and building strong relationships. I am confident that these skills will translate well to the HR function and allow me to excel in this new role.”

“Although my background is in finance and accounting, I have gained a wealth of relevant experience that would enable me to thrive as a Junior Software Engineer at ABC Tech. In my current position, I have honed my attention to detail and ability to work independently, both of which are crucial in a technical role. I have taken several online coding courses and have completed a coding bootcamp to further develop my technical skills. I am excited to apply these skills to a new industry and to continue learning and growing as a software engineer.”

“As a former teacher, I have developed a range of soft skills that I believe would make me an excellent fit for the Interior Designer position at DEF Design. In my previous role, I honed my creativity and attention to detail by designing lesson plans and classroom materials that engaged and inspired my students. I also developed strong communication and collaboration skills by working closely with colleagues and parents to support student learning. Additionally, I have taken several interior design courses and have completed a certification program to gain the technical skills necessary for this role. I am eager to apply my passion for design and my transferable skills to a new industry and to contribute to the success of DEF Design.”

Closing Statement

The closing statement of your cover letter should reiterate your interest in the job and the company. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and convey your belief in being a great fit for the role. Politely mention your attached resume and request an interview to further discuss how your skills and experiences align with the company’s needs.

“Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my transferable skills and passion for HR to your team. I am confident that my experience in project management, problem-solving, and collaboration, combined with my enthusiasm for this new role, make me a strong fit for the position. Please find my attached resume for your review and do not hesitate to contact me to schedule an interview. I look forward to discussing my qualifications in more detail and learning more about the company.”

“I appreciate the opportunity to apply for the Junior Software Engineer position at ABC Tech. I am excited about the prospect of applying my financial background and technical skills to a new industry and contributing to the success of your team. I believe that my experience in analytical thinking, attention to detail, and independent work, combined with my passion for software development, make me a great fit for the role. My resume is attached for your review, and I would welcome the chance to discuss my qualifications further in an interview. Thank you for your consideration.”

“Thank you for considering my application for the Interior Designer position at DEF Design. I am thrilled about the opportunity to pursue my passion for design and to contribute to your team’s success. My experience as a teacher has honed my creativity, attention to detail, and communication skills, all of which I believe would be valuable in this role. I am confident that my transferable skills and my technical training in interior design make me a strong candidate. Please find my attached resume for your review, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you further in an interview.”

Part 2 Highlighting Your Transferable Skills and Qualifications

  • Start by identifying your key transferable skills. Consider the skills you’ve mastered in your current role, such as technical skills like programming or proficiency in tools like R, or interpersonal skills like strong communication and leadership abilities. Think about how these skills can contribute to your success in your desired position.
  • Next, provide specific examples of how you’ve used these transferable skills in your work experience. Write about instances when you’ve demonstrated your strengths, focusing on what is most relevant to the new position. For instance, if you’re applying for a role where programming is a vital component, discuss a project where you used R or another programming language to solve a problem or streamline a process.
  • Make sure to also mention any relevant qualifications or certifications you’ve achieved to strengthen your case. This could be a professional certification in your skillset, such as a programming bootcamp or a project management course, or even a specific degree that might be advantageous to the new role.

Transferable Skill – Communication

“In my current role as a customer service representative, I have honed my communication skills by handling a wide range of customer inquiries and complaints. I am confident in my ability to effectively communicate with clients and colleagues, both verbally and in writing. I believe this skill will be valuable in a new role where clear communication is essential.”

Transferable Skill – Leadership

“As a team leader in my current role, I have successfully managed a team of 10 employees, delegating tasks and providing guidance as needed. I have also implemented new processes and procedures that have improved team productivity and efficiency. I believe that my leadership skills will be an asset in a new role where I can help guide and motivate a team towards success.”

Relevant Qualification (Specific Degree)

“I hold a degree in marketing and have extensive experience developing and executing marketing campaigns for a variety of clients. I believe that my degree and experience in marketing will be valuable in a new role where I can use my skills to help promote and grow the organization.”

Relevant Qualification (Professional Certification)

“I recently completed a project management course through the Project Management Institute and received my PMP certification. This certification has provided me with a strong foundation in project management principles and best practices.”

Part 3 Relating Your Career Change to Your New Role

When writing a career change cover letter, it’s crucial to connect the dots for the hiring manager between your past experience and the new role you’re pursuing. Your letter should highlight your transferable skills, demonstrate your enthusiasm for the new career path, and provide evidence of your competence.

  • First, take the time to thoroughly research the role and learn about the company’s values. This understanding will help you craft a focused cover letter that shows you’re not only aligned with the new job opportunity, but also could bring incredible value to the organization.
  • Next, identify your transferable skills from your current and previous positions. These skills may include project management, problem-solving, or interpersonal abilities. Emphasize how these skills will be an asset in your new role. For example, if you’re moving from sales to marketing, your ability to build relationships with clients can be a great advantage in creating strategic marketing campaigns.
  • Additionally, showcase how taking on new responsibilities or specific projects in your current job can be directly related to the desired role. This demonstrates that you’re proactive and eager to learn new skills. For example, if you’re transitioning from a graphic design role to a UX design role, mention that you participated in user experience workshops or studied user-centered design on your own.
  • Don’t forget to include any relevant volunteer work, online courses, or certifications that align with your new career path. These experiences show your commitment to meaningful work and self-improvement. Make sure to mention any achievements or endorsements from your peers, as this will strengthen your credibility.
  • Lastly, express your excitement about the new career opportunity. Let the hiring manager know that you’re dedicated, enthusiastic, and determined in your pursuit of this career change. Convey your passion for contributing to the new industry and explain how your background and values can help achieve the company’s goals.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and achieve the company’s goals. My background and values align with the organization’s mission, and I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to the team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications with you.

Part 4 Using Accomplishments to Sell Your Skills

When writing a career change cover letter, it’s essential to highlight your accomplishments to showcase your skills. By doing so, you can demonstrate to the employer that you can bring value to their organization, even if your experience is in a different field.

Start by listing your most relevant achievements. Think about the tangible outcomes you’ve produced in your previous roles. These could be increasing sales numbers, creating efficient processes, or implementing cost-saving measures. Focus on positive results that have had a notable impact on your past employers.

Next, identify the transferable skills you used to achieve these successes. Some common transferable skills include communication, problem-solving, leadership, and project management. In your cover letter, describe how these skills have contributed to your accomplishments and how they will be applicable in the new role.

To make your points clear and concise, consider using bullet points to highlight your past accomplishments and the skills you used to achieve them. For example:

  • Increased revenue by 20% through improved customer engagement by leveraging my strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Streamlined project workflows, reducing completion times by 30%, which highlights my excellent problem-solving and organizational capabilities.

Part 5 How to Target Your Cover Letter to the Company

When writing a career change cover letter, try to tailor it to the specific company and job role that you’re applying for. Start by researching the company to understand its mission, values, and culture. This will help you craft a personalized cover letter that speaks directly to the hiring manager and demonstrates your knowledge and enthusiasm for the position.

Don’t just focus on your transferable skills, but also show how your experiences and values align with the company’s mission. For example, if the company is dedicated to promoting environmental awareness, highlight any relevant experience or passion you have in this area.

As you research the company, dig deeper into how it’s involved in the community and any ongoing projects that match your interests or skills. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to highlight how your expertise can contribute to the company’s goals. It will also help you stand out from other applicants who might not be as familiar with the organization.

When addressing your cover letter, avoid using generic greetings like “To Whom It May Concern.” Instead, try to find the name of the hiring manager or human resources representative responsible for reviewing job applications. A personalized greeting shows that you’ve made an effort to learn more about the company and its team members.

Part 6 How to Format Your Career Change Cover Letter

Before starting your career change cover letter, make sure you have researched the company you’re applying to. Having a clear understanding of their mission, values, and products or services will help you tailor your cover letter to their needs.

To begin formatting your career change cover letter, start with the basic structure. Align everything to the left and use a professional font like Arial or Times New Roman with a font size of 11 or 12. Be conscious of your margins and spacing, as you’ll want your letter visually appealing and easy to read.

When addressing the recipient, use their name if you have it and “Dear Hiring Manager” if you don’t.

In the body of your cover letter, aim for three paragraphs. The first paragraph is where you’ll highlight the specific job you’re applying for and briefly mention why you’re interested in the position and the company. Next, use the second paragraph to showcase your transferable skills and relevant experience to the new position. You may refer to your career change resume here. Be sure to provide specific examples to demonstrate your capabilities. The third paragraph is where you express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and show how your skills can benefit the company. It’s also an excellent place to mention any connections you may have within the company or any other commonalities between you and the hiring manager.

As you wrap up your letter, use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely” followed by your full name. Do not forget to proofread your cover letter for any grammar, spelling, or formatting errors.

Feel free to utilize cover letter templates to help with formatting and structure, but remember to inject your personality and make it unique to your situation.

Part 7 Template of a Career Change Cover Letter

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Position] role at [Company Name]. Although my professional background has been primarily focused on [Current Industry or Job], I am excited about the opportunity to transition into a new career path and bring my skills and experience to [New Industry or Job].

In my current role as [Current Job Title], I have developed strong skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. These skills are transferable and would be valuable in the [New Industry or Job] field. Additionally, I have always been passionate about [New Industry or Job] and have taken steps to gain experience in this field through [Volunteer Work, Courses, or Projects].

I am confident that my skills, experience, and passion make me a strong candidate for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Part 8 Examples of Career Change Cover Letters

When writing a career change cover letter, it’s essential to show your passion for the new industry and emphasize the transferable skills you possess. Here are a few examples for different roles to help you get started.

Example 1: Marketing to Customer Service

Subject: Application for Customer Service Manager position

Dear Hiring Manager,

As a marketing professional with over five years of experience, I’ve honed my communication and problem-solving skills, making me an excellent candidate for the Customer Service Manager position at your company. I am eager to apply my strong organization and time management abilities to the customer service field.

At my current job as a Marketing Coordinator, I am responsible for resolving clients’ concerns and ensuring their satisfaction with our services. My ability to empathize and effectively address client needs will serve me well in serving your valued customers.

I am excited for the opportunity to further develop my skills in customer service and contribute to your organization’s success.

[Your Name]

Example 2: Executive Assistant to Graphic Designer

Subject: Application for Graphic Designer position

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Graphic Designer role at your esteemed company. With over six years of experience as an Executive Assistant, I have acquired strong design skills through the creation of visually appealing presentations, reports, and marketing materials.

My expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with a keen eye for design, has enabled me to develop innovative graphics for various projects. My work as an Executive Assistant has also enhanced my attention to detail, ability to prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines.

I am excited to make a successful career change and look forward to contributing my creativity and passion for design to your team.

Best regards,

Example 3: Software Engineer to Public Relations

Subject: Application for Public Relations Specialist position

I am writing to apply for the Public Relations Specialist position at your company. As a software engineer with over four years of experience in the tech industry, I have developed exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences.

In addition to my technical background, I have volunteered at local non-profit organizations, helping to promote their missions through social media and email campaigns. I believe my technical expertise and passion for storytelling make me a strong candidate for the Public Relations Specialist role.

I look forward to the opportunity to transition into the public relations field and contribute to the success of your organization.

Kind regards,

Part 9 How to Write an Effective Opening and Closing Paragraph

Writing a persuasive opening paragraph for your career change cover letter is essential. Your goal is to grab the reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the letter. Start by addressing the specific person or company you’re reaching out to. Avoid using generic greetings like “To Whom It May Concern.”

Show enthusiasm for the position right from the start. Use your communication skills to briefly demonstrate why you’re excited about the opportunity and the company’s values. You could also mention a recent achievement or news related to the company to create a connection.

  • In your opening paragraph, express your confidence in your ability to excel in the new role. While you may lack direct experience in the field, highlight your relevant transferable skills – there’s often overlap between various professions. For instance, mention your project management, problem-solving, or negotiation skills, as these are valuable in many industries.
  • Concisely explain the reason behind your career change, demonstrating your genuine interest in the new field. This is your opportunity to create a compelling narrative about your career journey and show your commitment to this new direction.
  • Now, let’s focus on the closing paragraph. You should maintain the confident, knowledgeable tone you established earlier in your cover letter. Reiterate your excitement and interest in the position, summarizing key points from the rest of the letter.
  • Don’t forget to include a call to action, where you politely request an opportunity for further discussion, like an interview. This shows a proactive attitude, which is important when making a career change.
  • Finally, express gratitude for the reader’s time and consideration. A simple, sincere “Thank you” can leave a lasting impression and set the stage for future interactions.

Part 10 Best Practices

Here are some tips to help you create an effective cover letter that will impress hiring managers and increase your chances of getting the job:

  • Research the organization and job description : Start by understanding the company’s values, culture, and specific needs. Tailor your cover letter to align with the job description and highlight your relevant qualifications and skills.
  • Highlight your transferable skills : Emphasize the skills you’ve gained from your previous positions that can be applied to the new industry. For example, if you’re transitioning from a sales role to e-commerce, focus on your customer relations, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Show enthusiasm for the new opportunity : Mention the reasons why you’re passionate about transitioning into the new industry and how the job aligns with your long-term career goals. Be genuine and positive.
  • Connect your previous experiences : Find ways to link your past positions, training activities, or volunteer work to the job you’re applying for. Demonstrate how your combination of experience and skills make you the perfect candidate for the new role.
  • Don’t downplay your accomplishments : Just because you’re changing industries doesn’t mean your previous accomplishments don’t matter. Be confident when discussing your achievements and expertise.
  • Proofread and format : Always proofread your cover letter for any grammar or spelling errors. Use appropriate formatting to make it visually appealing, easy to read, and professional-looking.
  • Follow up : After sending your cover letter and resume, don’t hesitate to follow up with the hiring manager or recruiter. This expresses your interest in the job and can potentially lead to an interview.

Related: Interview Follow-up Email Examples (1-2-3 weeks)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key elements to include in a career change cover letter.

  • A strong opening paragraph that grabs attention and mentions your reason for applying.
  • A brief summary of your professional background and relevant experience.
  • A detailed explanation of the transferable skills you possess that make you a suitable candidate.
  • A customized approach that demonstrates your understanding of the company and position.
  • A confident closing that expresses enthusiasm and requests an interview.

How can I highlight transferable skills in my cover letter?

  • Identify the most relevant skills required for the new role.
  • Provide concrete examples of how you’ve used these skills to achieve success in past positions.
  • Explain why these skills will help you succeed in the new role and benefit the company.
  • Make sure to mention any additional training or certifications that demonstrate your commitment to learning new skills.

What are some examples of strong career change statements?

  • “As a dedicated customer service professional with over 10 years of experience, I believe my skills in relationship-building and problem-solving make me the right fit for the marketing specialist role at X company.”
  • “While working as a sales representative, I developed a strong passion for digital marketing and have recently completed a digital marketing certificate. I’m excited to combine my sales and marketing skills to contribute to the success of X organization as a digital marketer.”

How can I tailor my cover letter for a specific job change?

  • Research the company and learn about their values, culture, and goals.
  • Understand the job requirements and mention how your skills align with them.
  • Refer to the company’s specific needs and challenges, and explain how your background can help solve them.
  • Use relevant keywords and phrases from the job description in your cover letter text.
  • How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation [Examples]
  • Impactful Teacher Cover Letter (Inspiring Examples)
  • Career Goals Examples [Professional Advancement]
  • How To Write a Cover Letter [Inspiring Examples]
  • A Perfect Letter of Introduction [Examples]
  • Smart Answers to "What Are Your Career Goals?"

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Customizing a Career Change Cover Letter: 5 Tips and a Template

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In this day and age, employers are looking for candidates who are more than just their resume. A resume can detail the ins and outs of responsibilities and job titles, but a cover letter is crucial to catching an employer’s eye. When returning to the workforce after an extended leave or pivoting in a new professional direction, detailing your experience in a well-written career change cover letter can greatly enhance your chances of securing a new job.

A career change cover letter can oftentimes be trickier to write than a typical cover letter. In a career change cover letter, you’re presenting your case for any employment gaps, as well as explanation as to why you’re headed in a new direction. It is an important opportunity to highlight the skills you’ve acquired and discuss past job transitions. It’s also a chance to define why you’re the right person for the role.

As with any cover letter, research both the company and the job itself, and address your career change cover letter accordingly.

Here are five more tips to customizing your career change cover letter, plus a template to get you started.

1. Introduce yourself and position your transition

Use the opening paragraph of your career change cover letter to summarize your skill set and express how your experience aligns with the organization’s needs for the open position. Share your knowledge of the company, as well as your interest in the role.

2. Cover your career change bases: Explain why you’re evolving

As you transition to the second paragraph in your career change cover letter, share your story in more detail: why are you making the transition from your previous role and how you hope to utilize your previous professional experience in the new job. What brought you here and why does the open role interest you at this time? Use this paragraph to explain your career transition when applying in a new sector.

3. Show your work and feature your transferable skills.

Use the third paragraph to share examples of your skills and experiences and how they’ve shaped your path to the new role. Give specific instances on how you’ve developed your skills, and be sure to highlight previous successes. Make the case for why you’re the best person for the job. Share your passion for the role.

4. Reveal your passion and align your goals with the organization.

Wrap-up your career change cover letter by expressing your thoughts and feelings behind the new career transition. Include your insights as to how you plan to utilize your past experiences to succeed in your next role.

5. Summarize and show enthusiasm

End your cover letter by summarizing the paragraphs above, recapping your story, your successes, and your transferable skills. Be sure to include contact information and relevant links supporting your successful career transition.

Career change cover letter examples can be invaluable when building your own cover letter. Here is a sample template for your career change cover letter that you can use as a roadmap.

Career Change Cover Letter Template

Jane Candidate

123 Main Street

City, ST 54321

555-555-5555

[email protected]

Samantha Jones                                                             

Big City Company

123 City Road

Dear Ms. Jones:

I am writing to express my interest in the Assistant Manager position posted on the Big City website. The position fits in line with my career path and I believe that my previous experience makes me an ideal candidate for the role.

Although I have previously been working primarily within the food and beverage industry, I have gained valuable experience in the day-to-day management of operations, including vendor and staff coordination. It has allowed me to build on my customer service skills as well as developing interpersonal communication skills and overall business management.

During my time within the food and beverage industry, I’ve grown to truly appreciate what it takes to build a business and keep it running smoothly. In fact, in my most recent role as Senior Barista, I was responsible for maintaining staff schedules and product inventory in addition to tallying and submitting daily/weekly/monthly reports. Last fall, when our store experienced issues with our inventory systems, I provided direction and solutions to work around the issue. As a result, I was recognized as the “Regional Employee of the Month” by our District Manager.

As your job description requests, I bring a strong work ethic, extensive customer service skills, and a thorough understanding of management software to the table. I am an outgoing, well-spoken team player who enjoys both learning and educating. A quick thinker, always working to solve problems efficiently and effectively, while implementing new plans and ideas for future operations. I am confident I will bring the same level of energy and expertise to the Assistant Manager role at Big City.

In my research, I’ve found that the mission and values of Big City are aligned with my own, and I am truly excited about growth and opportunity available with the Assistant Manager position. Additional information about my experience can be found on the attached resume and I look forward to meeting in person to discuss the role further.

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21+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

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No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must . 

Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.

Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done. 

You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates. 

And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.

Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples 

#1. career change cover letter example .

cover letter example for career change

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

  • Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
  • Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
  • Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.

Check out our guide video guide to learn how to write a Cover Letter that gets you HIRED!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example 

cover letter example for a recent graduate

  • Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
  • Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
  • Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.

Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish! 

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Middle Management

  • Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements. 
  • Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job. 
  • Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs. 

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for business manager

  • Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career. 
  • Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through. 
  • Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.

Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample. 

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for phd

Here’s what this cover letter does right: 

  • Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail. 
  • Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements. 

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for senior executive

  • Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking. 
  • Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.  
  • Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression. 

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example 

Cover Letter Example

  • Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time. 
  • A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression. 
  • Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.

Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example 

cover letter examples

  • Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.  
  • Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right? 
  • Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.

Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume . 

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example 

best cover letter example

  • Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements. 
  • Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job. 
  • Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.

For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Digital Marketing

  • Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template. 
  • Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry. 
  • Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.

Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example 

Cover Letter Example for Graphic Designer

  • Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.  
  • Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.  
  • Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.

Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Administrative Assistant

  • Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter. 
  • Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee. 
  • Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression. 

Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Front Desk

  • Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing. 
  • Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression. 
  • Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability. 

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Human Resources

  • It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in. 
  • Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better. 
  • Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it. 

This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example 

Cover Letter Example  for Sales Agent

  • Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template. 
  • Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length. 
  • Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements. 

Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Receptionist

  • Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time. 
  • Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention. 
  • Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for. 

Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Information Technology

  • Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements. 
  • Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are. 
  • Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume. 

Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Real Estate Agent

  • Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager. 
  • Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action. 
  • Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication . 

This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Teacher

  • Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles. 
  • Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter. 
  • Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job. 

Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Project Manager

  • Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
  • Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data. 
  • Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this. 

This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Paralegal

  • Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities. 
  • Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job. 
  • Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements. 

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

What is a Cover Letter? 

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your 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 give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).

So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day. 

Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough. 

Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:

  • Header - Input your contact information.
  • Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
  • Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
  • The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
  • The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
  • Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

cover letter structure

9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."

#1. Pick the right template

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

And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?

You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!

cover letter examples templates

#2. Add your contact details on the header

The best way to start your cover letter is through a header. 

Here’s what you want to include there:

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

Optionally, you can also include the following:

  • 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 content portfolio site or blog.

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter. 

A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.

So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?

One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.

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.

If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:

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

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

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 problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking 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.

As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates. 

What you want to do, instead, is 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. 

For example:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its 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 my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.

The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.

Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?

#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job

One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job. 

A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.

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 and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as 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

#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit

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 . 

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:

  • What’s the company’s business model?
  • What’s the company's 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?

Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter! 

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:

  • Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
  • Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite. 
  • Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible. 

#8. Write a 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 in a cover letter:

  • Best Regards,
  • Kind Regards,

#9. Proofread your cover letter

Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included. 

The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos! 

For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article ! 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:

1. How do I write a simple cover letter? 

To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action). 

2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter? 

The three parts of a cover letter are: 

  • The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph. 
  • The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter. 
  • The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.

3. What makes a great cover letter?

A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”

To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.

Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by. 

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .

Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.

And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.

If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles: 

  • How to Write a Resume
  • Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
  • Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

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  1. 39 Professional Career Change Cover Letters ᐅ TemplateLab

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  2. 39 Professional Career Change Cover Letters ᐅ TemplateLab

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  3. Transition Manager Cover Letter

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  4. 39 Professional Career Change Cover Letters ᐅ TemplateLab

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  6. FREE 8+ Cover Letters for Job Application Templates in PDF

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  1. How To Write A Disruptive Cover Letter 🤔😀👍💪😘

  2. Cover Letter, Format

  3. CV writing (part-1) Cover letter |১টি cv দিয়ে লেখা যাবে হাজারটা cv |Siam Ul Haque

  4. letter , job application #sushil #study English for class 6,7,8,9,10,11,12

  5. Module Three. Cover Letter/ Job Application Writing (Part Five) AfSoomaali

  6. Cover letter for job application

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  1. How To Write a Career Change Cover Letter (With Examples)

    1. Introduce yourself Start your cover letter by stating who you are, what you want and why you'd be a good fit for the job. Highlight your most impressive, valuable and relevant achievements without oversharing your lack of experience.

  2. Career Change Cover Letter Samples & Examples for 2024

    Article Time for a change? A birthday, a life change, a world event, or even an epiphany can often trigger the need for change in our lives. For many of us, the change we seek is in our work. You may be motivated by the desire to do more meaningful work. Or perhaps you want a job that lets you work remotely.

  3. How to Write a Cover Letter When You're Changing Careers (Sample + Tips

    Transferable skills Transferable skills are "portable," in that you take them from job to job. They include problem-solving, critical thinking, attention to detail, and more. Show recruiters that you have important skills to help you do the job so they can understand the unique value you'd bring to their company.

  4. How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter (With Samples!)

    Use The Muse to find a job at a company with a culture you love. Select the career path that aligns with you: Marketing Sales Data Human Resources Customer Service Software Engineering Product Management Education Design and UX Administration How many years of experience do you have? 0 - 1 years 1 - 5 years 5 - 10+ years

  5. How To Write a Career Change Cover Letter + Examples

    For a smooth professional transition, you need an excellent career change cover letter. Not sure how to write a cover letter for a career change? Check our career change cover letter examples and write yours in no time! This guide will show you: Career change cover letter examples better than 9 out of 10 others.

  6. Sample Career Change Cover Letter and Writing Tips

    1. Emphasize Your Transferable Skills Most importantly, focus on the transferable skills you have that you can use in the new position rather than on the skills you have that are only related to your current role. Analyze the job description for the position you're applying to, and look at the skills that the position calls for.

  7. How to write an impactful cover letter for a career change

    Learning to navigate career changes As a job seeker, your primary objective is to stand out from every other candidate — and writing a strong cover letter is a great way to do this. But if you're trying to change careers, it might seem more complicated.

  8. How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter

    Follow these four tips for writing a cover letter that will help you succeed in your career transition: How to write a cover letter Dread writing cover letters? Read our guide to learn how to write a great cover letter that convinces hiring managers you're the ideal person for the job. 1. Write an attention-grabbing introduction

  9. How To Write the Best Career Change Cover Letter

    2. Introduce yourself with a hook. Begin your cover letter with an engaging opening that captures the reader's attention. This could be a statement of your intent, a specific project you've recently completed, or a personal connection to the industry that demonstrates your passion and motivation for the career switch.

  10. How To Write the Best Career Change Cover Letter (+ Examples)

    1. Make sure you use the right words Changing careers is a big deal. While your resume will have covered your skills and experience, you can use this letter to really sell yourself to the hiring manager. What you lack in experience, you may be able to make up for in the willingness to learn.

  11. The Career Change Cover Letter: How to Get it Right

    Highlight your transferrable skills. You may be tempted to write about the impressive skills you've acquired in your career, but unless these skills align with the job description, you're better off leaving them out. Or, if that doesn't feel right, then at least find a way to mention them concisely and move on.

  12. 5 Career Change Cover Letter Examples Made for 2024

    Step one: a stellar career change resume tailored to match the job. Step two, however, is more challenging because you must also wow recruiters with a cover letter expressing your excitement at a career change and for the company. We're here to help you navigate these murky waters and set the course for the career of your dreams.

  13. Writing a Cover Letter for Changing Career Path? Here's ...

    💡 Include a CTA at the end of a career transition cover letter. A cover letter for a job change is not successful if the recruiter doesn't reach out to you. An influential call-to-action sentence that urges them to invite you for an interview is a critical element to your career change cover letter. 💡 Personalize the career change cover ...

  14. How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter [Examples]

    Begin your career change cover letter with a strong opening paragraph to grab the reader's attention. Clearly state your intention to change careers and specify the job you're applying for. Mention how you came across the opportunity (e.g., through a job ad or company website). Briefly highlight your passion for the new role and the company.

  15. How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter (With Examples)

    1) Start with a strong opening. 2) Detail why you're changing careers. 3) Highlight relevant experiences and transferable skills. 4) Demonstrate passion for the new company. 5) Conclude on a positive note. Tips to strengthen your career change cover letter. Career change cover letter samples. 1) Career change cover letter for early-career ...

  16. How To Write a Career Change Cover Letter (With Example)

    1. Introduce yourself Begin your cover letter by introducing yourself, stating the position that you're applying for, and explaining why you're applying. You can outline some of your past career accomplishments as an introduction, but save the details for later.

  17. Career Change Cover Letters (With Examples)

    Here is an example of a career change cover letter to help you decide on what information you should include in your letter. If you cannot find the hiring manager's name, you can address it as "Dear Hiring Manager." In this case, the applicant doesn't know if Margaret Rathbyn is addressed as Ms. or Mrs., so she uses her full name instead.

  18. 39 Professional Career Change Cover Letters

    5 Career Transition Cover Letters Career Change Cover Letters Download 16 KB #01 Download 14 KB #02 Download 61 KB #03 Download 128 KB #04 Download 17 KB #05 Download 16 KB #06 Download 15 KB #07 Download 16 KB #08 Download 15 KB #09 Parts of a career change cover letter Choosing to change careers is the easy part.

  19. Customizing a Career Change Cover Letter: 5 Tips and a Template

    Here are five more tips to customizing your career change cover letter, plus a template to get you started. 1. Introduce yourself and position your transition. Use the opening paragraph of your career change cover letter to summarize your skill set and express how your experience aligns with the organization's needs for the open position ...

  20. How to Explain a Career Change in Your Cover Letter

    1 Identify your main reason 2 Highlight your transferable skills 3 Show your passion and enthusiasm 4 Address any potential concerns 5 Here's what else to consider Changing careers can be an...

  21. 200+ Professional Cover Letter Examples for Job Seekers

    Finally, it's clear the writer of this cover letter is committed to the new job. They even worked on their skills to prepare for this change in profession. Taking a 150-hour course and volunteering are both great signs our candidate is dedicated to switching industries. 6. Cover letter for promotion example.

  22. The Best Cover Letter Examples for Any Job Seeker

    2. A Clear Pitch. Use the next few paragraphs of your cover letter to "hit them with the strongest results you have that are aligned with the opportunity," Godfred says. Ryan Kahn —Muse career coach and founder of The Hired Group —calls this your pitch.

  23. 21+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

    Content. Top ↑ 21 Cover Letter Examples #1. Career Change Cover Letter Example #2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example #3. 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.

  24. How to Change Careers in 5 Steps: Sweet Dream to New Reality

    Cover Letter Optimization Report Optimize your cover letter to get more interviews.; How to Write a Cover Letter Learn how to write a convincing cover letter.; Cover Letter Formats Find out which type of cover letter is right for you.; Cover Letter Templates Free templates to get you started.; Cover Letter Examples Cover letter examples by job and situation. ...