Whether you’re applying for a new role or a promotion in your current company, a cover letter can give you that crucial edge over your competition.
If your competitors are external candidates, a cover letter gives you an opportunity to show the hiring manager that you know the systems and ways of working – giving you a nice advantage. Or if you’re running mates are also internal, the right cover letter can leave a lasting impression, put you ahead of others, and allow you to get your foot further in the door.
In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of writing a cover letter for internal positions and give you some tips on how you can stand out from the crowd.
Do I need to include a cover letter when applying for an internal position?
If you’re applying for an internal position, you might not be required to include a cover letter with your CV. However, just because you’re not required to, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. Instead, you can think of a cover letter as a way of supporting your position as a contender.
If you choose to include an internal cover letter, use it as a tool to demonstrate the skills and experience you’ve acquired in your time at the company. That way, you’ve covered all bases.
What to include in an internal cover letter.
When you’re writing a cover letter for an internal position, there are some key components you’ll want to include:
- Your name and contact information – It’s crucial that you’re reachable. So even if they already have your information on file, mention them to be on the safe side.
- An introduction – This should outline your current role and the internal position you are applying for.
- Relevant experience – This is where you show you’re the right person for the job. Talk about your accomplishments, how you’ve progressed in your current role, and how you want to develop. You can also use it as an opportunity to mention relevant experience from previous jobs they might not know about or remember.
- Closing remarks – As with every cover letter, you’ll need an appropriate ending. Reiterate your interest in the role, your availability to speak, and how you look forward to hearing from the interviewer.


