1. Start with a greeting
Begin with the appropriate greeting based on who is hiring or who will be reading this letter. If you don’t know their gender or title, write out their full name. If you don’t know who will be receiving your letter, the standard “To whom it may concern” will suffice.
Examples: Dear Ms. Clalock / Dear Kyle Mills / To whom it may concern
2. Introduce yourself
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph in a way that is personable and highlights why you would be a great fit for the role or company.
Example: I recently saw your posting for Social Media Manager on LinkedIn and felt deeply compelled to apply. I feel my skillset, industry experience, and career goals align with your company’s mission, and I would love the opportunity to grow with your company to further visibility for future campaigns.
3. Add context
Provide context for your interest in the middle paragraphs and explore your relevant experience. Stand out as someone passionate about what this role involves or how this company caters to something you care about.
Example: My responsibilities at these organizations have included content production, content strategy, data mapping, product marketing, and social network development. I developed the company-wide market strategy at WineNet and extended that strategy into a multi-year campaign that benefitted the company and their non-profit partners.
4. Reiterate your interest
In the closing paragraph, solidify your interest in future correspondence and thank the reader for their time and interest.
Example: Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate this opportunity to learn more about your company, and I look forward to sharing in the values of your company’s mission.
5. Sign off
End the letter with your signature
Example: Sincerely, Joss Chen
Remember: Know your audience. Tailor how you address your reader based on which industry you’d trying to work within. These letters, though made for template customization, should not be one-size-fits-all.
