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How To End a Cover Letter (With Closing Examples)

Cover Letter Closing Examples

Closings not to use, how to sign a cover letter, set up an email signature, more cover letter writing tips.

Hugo Lin / The Balance

When you're writing a cover letter or sending an email message to apply for a job, it's important to close your letter in as professional a manner as possible. End your letter with a formal closing, followed by your signature.

As with any job-related correspondence, it's best to opt for a more formal language and tone—a cover letter is no place for "XOXO," “Cheers,” or even a casual "take care" as a closer.

The following is a list of letter closing examples that are appropriate for cover letters and other employment-related correspondence, such as thank-you notes and/or emails to schedule interviews or pass along references.

• Sincerely yours
• Best regards
• With best regards
• Kind regards
• Yours truly
• Most sincerely
• Respectfully
• Respectfully yours
• Thank you for your consideration

A cover letter is a formal correspondence, so it's important not to be too casual or friendly when writing it. Here are some letter closings that are fine to use when emailing or writing to a friend, but are not appropriate to use in a cover letter. 

• Affectionately
• Best wishes
• Eagerly waiting for a response
• Warm regards
• Warmest regards
• Take it easy
• Have a great day
• Have a nice day
• Yours faithfully
• Abbreviations (Thx or any other abbreviated word isn't appropriate)
• Any emoticon (no smiley faces)
• Sent from my phone (if your phone automatically includes it, you can remove it in the settings)

For a printed letter, follow the closing with a comma. Then, on a new line, put your name. Leave a space above your typed name for your written signature.

Signature (hard copy letter)

If you're sending an email, you can add your contact information below your name. For example:

Best regards,

Your Name Your Email Address Your Phone Number Your LinkedIn Profile URL

Whichever sign-off you choose, make sure always to capitalize its first letter.

To simplify, you can set up an email signature that includes your contact information.

An email signature will make it easy for correspondents to readily see how to get in touch and saves you the time of typing the information repeatedly.

Use a Professional Email Account

It’s a wise idea, when conducting a job search, to set up an email account (and accompanying address) dedicated. Doing so will help to ensure that you don’t miss emails from potential employers who might be interested in interviewing you. It also will allow you to provide a professional-sounding email address on your resume and cover letter. This email address should be comprised simply of your name (examples: “John.T.Smith@gmail.com or marjoriejones@email.com).

Too often, job candidates use their personal email accounts to apply for jobs, often using “cute” email names such as “Crafty_catlady@yahoo.com” or OrcWarrior100@gmail.com.” This casual practice often raises hiring managers, eyebrows, raising red flags about whether a candidate is a serious, qualified applicant for the job to which they are applying.

It’s better to err on the side of safety and separate your professional and personal email accounts.

What To Include in Your Signature

In your signature, include your email address and phone number. You can add your LinkedIn profile URL to make it easy for your recipients to view your skills, accomplishments, educational background, and work history. Depending on your field, you may also want to include a link to your Twitter account; if you do so, make sure that your account is professional and appropriate for viewing by potential employers. 

Find out how to set up a professional email signature, including formatting style and links to help you save a signature in your preferred email program.

Cover letters, whether submitted through email or traditional mail channels, are always the first impression you provide a potential employer. Make sure that this impression is a good one by following the “best practices” outlined in these links so that your cover letter shines.

Having an appropriate close is just one of the many steps required to craft a winning cover letter.

Review how to write a cover letter , including what to include in your cover letter, how to write a cover letter, typical cover letter formats, targeted cover letters, and cover letter samples and examples.

60 Examples of Strong Closing Statements: How to Close a Cover Letter

By Status.net Editorial Team on December 12, 2023 — 16 minutes to read

A strong cover letter closing is essential in making a great impression and reinforcing your enthusiasm for the job opportunity. It provides a final opportunity to emphasize your relevant skills, experiences, and personal attributes that make you an ideal candidate. A compelling closing also encourages the employer to take action, such as inviting you for an interview. Consider these examples:

• Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute my skills and experiences in this exciting role.
• I am eager to discuss how my background aligns with your team’s goals and how I can contribute to your company’s growth.
• I am confident that my expertise in social media marketing makes me well-suited for this position, and I appreciate your time and consideration.

Positive Impact on Employers

Your cover letter closing is crucial, as it leaves a lasting impression on the employer and influences their perception of you as a candidate. A positive and engaging closing helps you stand out among other applicants and increases your chances of being selected for an interview. Here are a few key points that can create a positive impact:

• Express gratitude : Show appreciation for the time the employer has spent reading your cover letter, and thank them for considering your application.
• Be enthusiastic : Reiterate your excitement about the job opportunity and the prospect of joining their team.
• Include a call to action : Encourage further engagement, like scheduling an interview or discussing your qualifications in more detail.

For example:

Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I am highly enthusiastic about joining your team and discussing my potential contributions to your ongoing projects. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at your earliest convenience.

Crafting Your Final Paragraph

Summarizing your enthusiasm.

To leave a lasting impression, summarize your enthusiasm for the role in your closing paragraph. Highlight your excitement about the opportunity and express gratitude for the potential connection with the company. For instance:

I’m thrilled about the prospect of joining the (…) team and contributing my marketing skills to drive innovative campaigns. Thank you for considering my application.

Reaffirming Your Best Fit for the Role

Before signing off, reinforce why you’re the perfect candidate for the position. Briefly recap your relevant experience, skills, or accomplishments that set you apart. Be concise yet confident in your message. For example:

With my five years of experience in international sales and my proven ability to develop long-term client relationships, I am confident in my ability to excel as your next Sales Manager.

Choosing the Right Sign-Off

Professional sign-off options.

Selecting the appropriate closing for your cover letter can leave a lasting impression. Here are some professional sign-off options to consider:

• Sincerely : This classic sign-off is appropriate for most scenarios and conveys professionalism.
• Best regards : A versatile and slightly more casual option, ideal for a variety of industries.
• Kind regards : This friendly sign-off is suitable when you have developed a rapport with the receiver, like the hiring manager.

You can also try other options such as Yours truly , Respectfully , or Yours faithfully , depending on your preference and the nature of the job you are applying for.

Matching the Company Culture

Try to tailor your sign-off to match the company culture. Researching the company’s website, social media, or reviewing employee testimonials can help you get a better understanding of the company culture. For example:

• Innovative or creative industries : Feel free to express yourself with a casual yet professional closing, like Warm Regards or Cheers .
• Traditional or formal industries : Stick to more formal options such as Sincerely or Best Regards .

Incorporating a Call to Action

Proposing the next steps.

A well-crafted cover letter should inspire the reader to take the next step. This could include scheduling an interview, discussing your application further, or even simply reviewing your attached resume. To encourage this action, incorporate a call to action (CTA) at the end of your cover letter that guides the hiring manager.

Some examples of CTAs in the context of cover letters include:

• Schedule a meeting : “I’m excited about the opportunity to discuss my experiences and how they align with the [job title] position. Let’s set up a time to chat!”
• Ask for a callback : “I’d be thrilled to further discuss my application and the value I bring to the table. Give me a call at your earliest convenience to chat more.”
• Direct them to your portfolio : “I’d love to showcase my recent work, which you can find at [website link]. Let’s discuss how my skillset aligns with the [job title] role.”

Remember to tailor these examples to your specific application and the company to which you’re applying.

60 Examples of Strong Closing Statements For a Cover Letter

• 1. This position seems like a perfect match for my experience, passions, and career aspirations. I would love to bring my skills and expertise to your organization.
• 2. I am confident that I can make an immediate and positive impact if given the opportunity to join your team. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your organization’s success.
• 3. My background and capabilities align well with the responsibilities of this role. I am excited by the prospect of applying my experience to this position.
• 4. I am enthusiastic about the chance to join your organization. Please contact me to further discuss my qualifications and how I can add value.
• 5. I would welcome the opportunity to showcase my abilities and help drive growth and innovation through this position. I am eager to learn more.
• 6. With my skills and experience, I am prepared to excel in this role and hit the ground running. I look forward to speaking with you.
• 7. I am confident I would thrive in this position. I am eager to bring my skills, passion, and drive to your dynamic team.
• 8. I believe I am an excellent fit for this opportunity and am excited by the prospect of contributing my talents to your organization. I welcome the chance to speak with you further.
• 9. My experience aligns well with the responsibilities of this exciting role. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to apply my skills to benefit your organization.
• 10. I am excited by the chance to join your team. I look forward to further discussion.
• 11. I am confident that I possess the necessary qualifications for this role and would excel if given the opportunity.
• 12. With my background and passion, I am prepared to hit the ground running and make an immediate impact through this position. I would love to join your team.
• 13. I am eager to apply my expertise to help drive success and innovation for your organization. Please contact me to arrange a time to talk.
• 14. My experience has fully prepared me to excel in this role. I am excited by the prospect of bringing my skills to your dynamic organization.
• 15. I am enthusiastic about this opportunity and the chance to contribute to your company’s continued growth and innovation. I look forward to elaborating on my qualifications.
• 16. I am confident I can perform exceptionally well in this position. I am excited by the prospect of joining your team and organization.
• 17. With my proven track record, I am prepared to dive in and deliver results through this role. I would be thrilled to join your organization.
• 18. I am eager to join an organization where I can utilize my expertise to create meaningful impact. This role seems like an excellent fit.
• 19. I am excited by the prospect of joining your innovative company. My skills would enable me to contribute to your team’s success right away.
• 20. I am confident my background makes me a competitive applicant for this opportunity. I am excited to further discuss my qualifications with you.
• 21. With my experience and passion, I know I would thrive in this position. I hope to have the chance to join your talented team.
• 22. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of bringing my skills and experience to your dynamic organization.
• 23. I am eager to apply my expertise to help drive innovation and success in this role. I would be thrilled to join your team.
• 24. I am confident my abilities make me a strong candidate for this opportunity. I am excited by the chance to contribute to your company’s growth.
• 25. I believe I possess the necessary skills, experience, and drive to excel in this position.
• 26. With my background, I am prepared to dive in, roll up my sleeves, and immediately begin adding value in this role. I am excited by this opportunity.
• 27. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your team. I am confident my experience would allow me to thrive in this position.
• 28. I would welcome the opportunity to join your organization and collaborate with your talented team in this role. Please contact me to further discuss my qualifications.
• 29. I am excited by the chance to apply my skills and experience to help drive innovation and success for your company. I hope to speak with you soon.
• 30. I am eager to bring passion, expertise, and a strong work ethic to this position. I am confident I would excel on your team. I look forward to further discussing how I can contribute to your organization’s success.
• 31. I am confident that I have the necessary qualifications to excel in this role, and I am excited by the prospect of contributing my skills to your organization. I look forward to discussing this opportunity further.
• 32. With my experience and capabilities, I know I would be a great asset to your team through this position. I am eager to bring my passion and expertise to your dynamic organization.
• 33. I am enthusiastic about the chance to apply my background in a way that drives meaningful impact and innovation. This role seems like an ideal fit for my skills.
• 34. I am eager to join your organization and collaborate with your talented team to deliver exceptional results.
• 35. I am prepared to hit the ground running and make immediate contributions in this role. My experience aligns well with the responsibilities, and I am excited by the prospect of joining your company.
• 36. I am confident that I possess the ideal qualifications for this opportunity. I would love to join your organization and contribute my skills to help drive future success.
• 37. With my proven track record and expertise, I am prepared to dive in and immediately begin adding value through this position. I am excited by this opportunity and welcome further discussion.
• 38. My background and capabilities make me confident that I can perform exceptionally well in this role.
• 39. I am eager to apply my skills in a high-impact position with a respected organization like yours. I am confident I would thrive on your team. Please contact me to arrange a meeting.
• 40. I believe this role is an excellent match for my qualifications. I am excited by the opportunity to contribute my experience and talents to your innovative company.
• 41. I am confident that my background has prepared me well to excel in this position. I would be thrilled to join your talented team and organization.
• 42. With my passion, expertise, and proven ability to deliver results, I am prepared to dive in and immediately begin driving value through this role. I am excited by this opportunity and look forward to further discussion.
• 43. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of applying my skills in a challenging and rewarding position at your respected company. I am eager to learn more about this opportunity.
• 44. I am excited by the chance to join your dynamic team. My experience has fully prepared me to thrive in this position and help drive your organization’s continued success.
• 45. I am confident I possess the ideal qualifications for this opportunity. I would welcome the chance to join your team and contribute to future growth and innovation.
• 46. With my background and capabilities, I am prepared to excel in this role. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of applying my experience to benefit your organization. I look forward to speaking with you.
• 47. I am eager to utilize my expertise. Please contact me to arrange a meeting to discuss my qualifications.
• 48. I am excited by the prospect of joining your team. I am confident my skills and experience make me a competitive applicant for this opportunity. I look forward to further discussion.
• 49. This role seems like an excellent match for my background. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your organization’s success and future growth.
• 50. I am confident I possess the necessary experience and qualifications to excel in this position. I would be thrilled to join your talented team. I look forward to speaking with you.
• 51. I am excited by this opportunity and welcome the chance to further discuss my qualifications.
• 52. I am eager to apply my expertise in a challenging role that enables me to create meaningful impact. I am confident I would thrive in this position on your team.
• 53. I believe I am an excellent fit for this opportunity. I would be honored to join your organization and collaborate with your talented team. I look forward to further discussion.
• 54. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing my experience to help drive innovation and continued success. I am excited by this opportunity and confident in my ability to excel.
• 55. Thank you for reviewing my application. I am eager to bring my background and capabilities to this exciting role on your team. I am confident I can perform exceptionally well if given the opportunity. I look forward to speaking with you.
• 56. With my proven skills and expertise aligned with this position’s responsibilities, I am prepared to dive in and immediately begin adding value to your organization.
• 57. I am confident that my experience, capabilities and passion for excellence would allow me to thrive in this role. I would welcome the opportunity to join your respected organization and am eager to further discuss my qualifications.
• 58. I am excited by the prospect of utilizing my background to help drive innovation and success in this position. I am confident in my ability to excel on your team and look forward to learning more.
• 59. I believe I am an excellent candidate for this opportunity. I am enthusiastic about applying my experience to contribute to the continued growth and success of your esteemed organization.
• 60. With my proven track record and expertise, I know I would thrive in this role. I am eager to bring my skills and passion to your dynamic team. Thank you for your consideration – I look forward to discussing this opportunity further.

When choosing a closing statement, make sure it matches the overall tone of your cover letter and reflects your personality. Also, take into consideration the company culture and position you’re applying for.

Examples of Effective Cover Letter Closings

Formal closings.

• Respectfully,
• Yours faithfully,
• Kind regards,
• Best regards,
• Yours sincerely,
• Yours truly,

Semi-Formal Closings

• Warm regards,
• Best wishes,
• With appreciation,
• Looking forward to your response,
• Yours in professional success,
• Many thanks,
• Thank you for your consideration,
• Eager for the opportunity to connect,

Casual Closings

• Have a great day,
• All the best,
• Thanks so much,
• Excited to chat soon,
• Grateful for your time.

Polishing Your Cover Letter Ending

Proofreading for errors.

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-proofread cover letter. Before sending it off, give it a thorough read-through, and look closely for any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors. Consider using a grammar tool to help catch mistakes you might have missed. Also, ask a friend, family member, or even a professional to review your cover letter. Their fresh perspective can provide valuable insights and catch anything you might have overlooked.

Ensuring Consistency with Your Resume

To make your application seamless, double-check your cover letter and resume to ensure consistency. Pay special attention to details such as job titles, dates, and company names, as inconsistencies can raise concerns from potential employers. It’s also a good idea to match the formatting and fonts across both documents to give your application a polished and cohesive look. Make sure the skills and experiences you highlight in your cover letter are complementary to those mentioned in your resume, so they work together to make a strong case for your candidacy.

Sending Your Cover Letter

Email versus hard copy.

When sending your cover letter, you’ll usually have two options: email or hard copy. Each has its benefits and considerations:

• More convenient and faster
• Allows for easy tracking and organization
• Often preferred by employers
• Be sure to use professional language and an appropriate subject line
• Formal option, which may be required for certain industries or applications
• Neatly print and sign your cover letter
• Use quality paper and a matching envelope

It’s crucial to consider the preferences of the employer when deciding which method to use. If they haven’t specified a preference, feel free to choose the one that makes the most sense for you.

Following Submission Guidelines

No matter how well-written your cover letter is, failing to follow submission guidelines can hurt your chances of being considered for the position. Pay close attention to these key details when preparing your cover letter:

• Deadline: Be punctual in submitting your application – submit on time or even earlier.
• Formatting requirements: Follow any formatting requirements mentioned explicitly, such as font type, font size, and margins.
• File format: Save and send your cover letter in the requested file format, like PDF or Word Document (.docx).
• Contact information: Don’t forget to include your up-to-date contact information, such as your email address and phone number.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some strong closing statements for a cover letter that stand out to employers.

A strong closing statement should reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and demonstrate your confidence in your qualifications. Here are some examples:

• “I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to your team and look forward to discussing my qualifications further.”
• “Thank you for considering my application. I believe my expertise aligns well with the role, and I am eager to contribute to the success of your organization.”
• “I’m confident that my skills make me an ideal candidate for the position, and I’m eager to discuss how I can add value to your company.”

What’s the best way to format the closing section of my cover letter?

To format the closing section of your cover letter, you should:

• Leave a space between the last paragraph and your closing.
• Use a closing phrase like “Sincerely” or “Kind regards.”
• Add your full name and contact information, such as email address and phone number.
• If applicable, include any relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile or online portfolio.
• Leave a space between your closing phrase and your name so you can add a digital or printed signature.

Should I use ‘Kind regards’ or ‘Yours sincerely’ to finish off my cover letter?

Both ‘Kind regards’ and ‘Yours sincerely’ are acceptable and professional ways to end a cover letter. You can choose which one you feel most comfortable with or suits your individual style. In general, ‘Kind regards’ is a safe and widely used option, while ‘Yours sincerely’ is considered a bit more formal.

How can you make a cover letter feel personal and engaging without being too casual?

To make your cover letter personal and engaging, try these tips:

• Address the recipient by name, if possible, to create a connection.
• Start your cover letter by mentioning a specific detail about the company or role to show you’ve done your research.
• Share anecdotes from your experience that directly relate to the requirements of the job and showcase your unique qualities.
• Focus on the value you can bring to the company, rather than just listing your qualifications.
• Resume vs. Cover Letter (Thoughtful Tips)
• How to Send an Email Cover Letter (Examples)
• 3 Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples (Guide)
• Cover Letter vs. Letter of Interest vs. Letter of Intent
• 2 Smart Examples: Executive Assistant Cover Letter
• 10 Inspiring Examples: How To Write a Cover Letter

How to Close a Cover Letter in 2024 (With Tips and Examples)

It’s so satisfying when someone absolutely nails an ending—whether it’s a song that fades out on the perfect key, or an episode of a TV show where the last breath of dialogue changes everything . The same is true for cover letters.

You don’t need your closing paragraph to have a Sixth Sense -level twist that shocks hiring managers and recruiters alike. But an excellent cover letter should keep them thinking about you long after they’ve read it—or at least long enough to schedule an interview.

To help you put together the most effective application package possible, we’ve assembled top tips for finishing a cover letter strong—including six example cover letter conclusions.

Tips for writing an effective cover letter ending

Ultimately, the goal of your cover letter conclusion is “to propel the reader to take action,” says Muse coach Kristine Knutter . (That action should be reading the rest of your application and scheduling an interview with you!) How do you achieve this with a single paragraph? By being “bold, enthusiastic, and clear in asserting what they can do for the company,” Knutter says.

These guidelines will help you do just that:

1. Remind them why you’re qualified.

Briefly summarize what you can do for the company, Knutter says. You just spent the last few paragraphs sharing stories that show your most important skills and experiences. Your conclusion should reiterate the key points and explicitly connect them to how you’ll help the company—not introduce new information. Now isn’t the time to bring up that super relevant experience that really seals the deal for your candidacy—that belongs in your cover letter body paragraphs or opening .

So you might start your last paragraph with something like, “Based on the job description, I am confident that my skills, knowledge and required experience are a strong match for this exciting opportunity,” says Muse coach Steven Davis . You could also use this framework to plug in some of your specific skills, knowledge, experiences, and explicitly match them with the exciting opportunity.

2. Thank them for their time and consideration.

Even if you aren’t ultimately selected to move forward, you still want to make sure you’re being as polite and professional as you’d be as an employee. It doesn’t need to be an overwrought gesture of gratitude—that could sound disingenuous or desperate. Davis suggests saying something like, “Thank you in advance for your kind consideration.”

3. Focus on the company.

Your closing could be the last thought you leave with the hiring manager before they decide whether or not to call you in for an interview. Think about it: Do you want this thought to be focused on what they can do for you or what you can do for them? Put yourself in the shoes of the hiring manager and you’ll know it’s the latter.

4. Look toward the future, but don’t get presumptuous.

Mention next steps in the application process, like being eager to discuss this job opportunity further or anything else that alludes to an interview, but don’t write as if you assume you’ll be getting an interview.

Do not, under any circumstances, say something like: “I will call your office in a week to schedule an interview.” Muse writer Lily Zhang has no idea where this (threatening) advice originated from, but ending your cover letter like this will not give the impression that you’re a go-getter who takes initiative. It will, however, make you seem egotistical and possibly delusional. This is just not how you get an interview. You want to end by showing that you’re a pulled-together professional, not a demanding child.

5. Be positive.

Don’t use your conclusion to apologize for “missing” skills or experiences . Especially if you’re early in your career or looking to make a pivot, statements like “Even though I don’t have much product management experience” or “Despite having never managed a team” just shine a spotlight on reasons a hiring manager might skip to the next application. But job descriptions are often a wishlist and not hitting a few of the items on it doesn’t mean you can’t do the work. Focus on the experience you do have, the qualifications you do meet, and the transferable skills you bring to the table.

Read more: 7 Cover Letter Words and Phrases That Are Costing You the Job

6. Keep it short and sweet.

Limit your last paragraph to 60 words max, Knutter says.Your entire cover letter should be less than a page , so you should spend as much of that space as possible showing you’re qualified.

7. Use a smart  sign off .

Stick to the classic letter and email closings, like regards, sincerely, and respectfully, Knutter says. You can also use your sign off to thank the reader for their time. This is not the time to throw your application in the trash yourself with a “peace out” or “love”–which I’m assuming is the job search equivalent of calling the teacher “Mom.

6 smart cover letter closing examples

Want to see this advice in action? Check out these example cover letter endings. Or you can look at the conclusions in our cover letter templates or read more of our cover letter examples.

Cover letter closing example 1:

I look forward to contributing my skills and experiences to the Senior Account Manager position at ZZTopTech and hope to have the opportunity to speak with you further about how I can be an asset to your team.

Respectfully, Peter Thomas

Cover letter closing example 2:

Again GreenWorld Co’s commitment to helping other companies become more eco-friendly and sustainable has helped me believe that there are still ways to help slow the effects of climate change. I’d love to bring my expertise in crafting B2B sales messaging and passion for the environment to your team. Thank you for taking the time to consider me for this role, and I hope to speak with you soon about how I can help you sell your products and services to the large companies that need the most.

Sincerely, Alice Yu

Cover letter closing example 3:

I take the role of executive assistant very seriously and pride myself in learning how to best support each individual I work for so that they can focus on the other parts of their job. My drive, past experiences, and ability to write and speak fluent French would greatly help GoCo and your COO as you expand into the European market and increase travel to Paris and Brussels.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best,  Kobe Morris

Cover letter closing example 4:

Thank you so much for considering me for the role of Nurse Educator. My passion for teaching and expertise at breaking down complex topics drew me to my first career as a teacher, while my desire to help people and in the most difficult times of their lives and strength for memorizing policies and facts—as well as technical ability to perform procedures—has helped me thrive as a nurse for the last 10 years. I’d bring both these skills sets to crafting curriculum and training nurses and home health aides at your organization and ultimately help strengthen your workforce and the care your patients receive.

Sincerely, Kathy Ramirez

Cover letter closing example 5:

Through my internship and academic experiences in mechanical engineering, along with my involvement in UVA’s National Championship Robotics team—where the ability to translate theory to real world application and troubleshoot under pressure was really put to the test—I’ve developed design a strong skill set that will add value to City Inc’s product development team. I would be thrilled to speak with you further about how I can contribute. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully, Sarah Zimmerman

Cover letter closing example 6:

With my strong track record of selling software to small businesses, I think I could be a great addition to Real Company as you expand into this market. I’d welcome the opportunity to learn more about your planned product offerings for this segment and discuss how my expertise might contribute to the development, marketing, or sales of these products.

Best, Asif Hasan

Lily Zhang contributed to this article. 

How to End a Cover Letter [w/ 4 Examples]

How you end your cover letter is an important part of the process. 

You’ve managed to make a good impression with your cover letter and now you want to “exit” on a good note with an equally impactful conclusion. 

This is where this article comes in.

We’ll show you how to end your cover letter effectively and leave the right impression on the recruiter reading it!

• 6 Ways to end a cover letter for a job (with examples) 
• Ways NOT to end a cover letter
• How to sign off a cover letter
• Signature lines NOT to use 

New to cover letter writing? Give our resumes 101 video a watch before diving into the article!

6 Ways to End a Cover Letter for a Job (With Examples)

Your cover letter ending consists of your closing paragraph and your signature line.

As your official “parting” from the recruiter, your closing paragraph should be an on-point summary of your cover letter’s highlights and a chance to reaffirm your strong points.

To guide you in the right direction, we’ve put together our favorite tips on how to end a cover letter effectively. 

So, let’s see what they’re all about!

#1: Show Confidence 

First things first—make sure you end your cover letter on a confident note. 

All your skills, qualifications, and strengths will lose a bit of their value if you don’t confidently show the recruiter that you can apply them to the company’s benefit. 

Say, you mentioned a bunch of noteworthy achievements and skills as you were writing your cover letter . Your cover letter ending is your chance to confidently reiterate them.

For example, you might have mentioned in your cover letter how you helped your previous company exceed its sales target by 30%. That’s an achievement you can use to conclude your cover letter confidently.  

For example:

I believe my ability to generate sales and drive results will be a significant contribution to your company’s goals and KPIs. 

#2: Sum Up Your Skills (For the Position)

Another way to effectively end your cover letter is to sum up your top skills. 

More specifically, sum up exactly how your skills will bring value to the team or company, or how they are relevant to the position you are applying for.

Here’s an example of how you can do this:

To conclude, I can confidently say that my 5 years of experience as a researcher have made me detail-oriented, patient, and able to connect smaller pieces of information to see the bigger picture. I believe these skills will be of use in this position. 

#3: Be Enthusiastic

You may be highly qualified and justifiably confident in your skills, but employers also want to see that you will be a motivated and engaged employee. 

So, make sure to express your enthusiasm! This will show that you care about this job and that you will put passion and energy into your work if you’re hired. 

Employees who are enthusiastic about their work are also far more likely to stay on board long term, which means that you’ve got more chances to get (and stay) hired! It’s no wonder that 71% of executives say that employee engagement is critical to their company’s success .

As such, sometimes, the deciding difference between two equally qualified candidates is just their level of interest and enthusiasm for the position.

Being able to apply all of my skills and previous experience to this project is an ideal and exciting opportunity for me. 

#4: State Your Goals and Set Expectations 

Another great way to end your cover letter is by stating your professional goals and giving the recruiter a general idea of what they should expect from you as a potential employee.

This will show that you are proactive and that you have clear objectives for your career.

Keep in mind though—when stating your goals and expectations, focus on mentioning how you’ll contribute to the company and benefit the employer, not just the other way around. 

And remember—what can set you apart from other candidates is expressing exactly what connects you to the company (other than just wanting to be hired). This can make your claims more believable and attract recruiters more easily.

Here’s an example of how you can make that work:

My goal is to be counted among the top professionals in the field, not only due to my skills but also because of my appetite for innovation. Your company’s mission to innovate some basic aspects of our daily lives is an inspiration for my work and I’d be happy to contribute my skills to achieve this common mission.

#5: Don’t Forget to Say “Thank You” 

Don’t forget to end the letter with gratitude. 

After all, recruiters go through countless applications daily, so just the fact that they took the time to read yours is enough of a reason to be thankful. 

Because it is expected that you will say “thank you” (and would be considered rude if you don’t), genuine gratitude is what will make you instantly more likable and win you extra points. 

Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I truly appreciate your consideration and hope to have the chance to prove through my dedicated work for your company.

#6. Keep It Professional 

This last piece of advice is quite simple. Keep your cover letter professional. You’ll have plenty of chances to express the more fun side of your character. 

There will be plenty of time to express your more “casual” side once you’re hired. At this stage, though, employers want to see that you are professional, reliable, and serious about your work. 

So, it’s better to use academic language and a clean, simple style. 

Liked the tips we covered in this article? There’s more where that came from! Check out our complete guide with the top 21 cover letter tips .

Ways NOT to End a Cover Letter 

And now that we covered the best ways to end your cover letter, let’s go over what you should NOT do when you’re writing your cover letter ending.  

• Do not appear desperate for the job. There is a fine line between expressing enthusiasm and being desperate. If you step over that line, you might blow your chances at getting a callback.
• Don’t be cocky and entitled. Avoid rhetoric that implies that the company would be foolish not to hire you and avoid speaking as though you’ve already been hired.
• Do not use overly familiar language or slang. That is unless you are working in the comedy industry.
• Don’t forget to proofread. Forgetting to proofread your cover letter (including the ending) is a big no-no. Typos and grammar mistakes can come across as unprofessional, so make sure to double-check for mistakes or use software like Grammarly .
• Don’t be sloppy! Pay attention to how you structure your closing paragraph just as much as the rest of your cover letter. This is the last thing the recruiters will read and it is what they will remember from the cover letter.
• Do not skip the closing! Not including a final paragraph in a cover letter is a huge mistake. This is your opportunity to summarize your strong points, enthusiasm, and gratitude memorably.

Want to know what mistakes you should avoid when you’re writing your cover letter? Our guide on cover letter mistakes has all you need to know.

How to Sign Off a Cover Letter 

Signing off your cover letter is a pretty straightforward task. All you have to do is use a signature line, followed by your full name. Something like this: 

And since “sincerely” has become overused, consider these signature lines to use instead: 

• Kind regards,
• With best regards,
• Most sincerely,
• Respectfully yours,
• Best regards,
• Respectfully,
• Thank you for your consideration,

Signature lines not to use

You probably know better than to use any of the signature lines below, but we thought to go over them just in case. So, whatever you do, refrain from using any of the following: 

• Warm Regards
• Yours Truly
• Have a wonderful day
• Affectionately

Do I Sign a Cover Letter? 

Whether you should sign a cover letter depends on how you are sending your cover letter. 

Nowadays, most cover letters are sent electronically. If that’s the case with you, there is no need to add an electronic signature. 

Simply add your full name at the end of the cover letter, using the same font as the rest of your letter. 

If you are sending a good old-fashioned printed cover letter, on the other hand, include the same details and add your signature underneath your name. 

Having a matching resume and cover letter is a great way to make a good impression on the hiring manager! We make that super easy for you - just pick one of our matching pairs of resume & cover letter templates and start writing yours!

Key Takeaways 

How you end your cover letter is extremely important. If you manage to get it right, your application will make an impression and most surely earn you a callback.

To make sure you got it right, let’s go over the main points we covered in this article: 

• Your cover letter ending should contain a captivating closing paragraph and a signature line.
• To write a good closing paragraph, do some of the following: convey enthusiasm, recap your skills and qualifications, show gratitude, and state your goals and expectations.
• Things NOT to do when you’re writing your cover letter ending are: appearing cocky, being sloppy, forgetting to proofread, and ignoring the ending altogether.
• Signature lines to consider in addition to sincerely are: kind regards, respectfully, and most sincerely.

Related Readings:

• Do I Need A Cover Letter in 2024
• Entry-level Cover Letter
• Cover Letter for Internship

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How to End a Cover Letter in 2023 + Examples

Knowing how to end a cover letter properly helps you stand out from other candidates, and make the best first impression. Doing so increases the chances of getting hired.

Today’s guide will teach you how to end your cover letter to increase your success rate in the job market.

Table of Contents

Key Components of a Good Cover Letter Ending

It’s crucial to conclude your cover letter with highlights reaffirming important points . Below are vital aspects to consider to help craft a well-rounded cover letter ending:

Show Confidence

Most people only focus on showing confidence in the first half of their cover letters. However, that should not be the case as you must portray confidence throughout the entire letter, including the ending. This enables you to prove you are the ideal candidate for the advertised position more effectively.

Add Your Most Relevant Skills

You need to summarize your skills and qualifications while ending your cover letter and draw a final comparison. Additionally, state how your skills will add value to the company.

Restate Your Value Through Enthusiasm

Most employers look out for employees who are motivated and engaged. You might be confident and highly qualified but lack enthusiasm. Your cover letter should reveal your passion and energy for the role you are applying for.

Quantify Your Goals

Another critical approach to ending your cover letter is by outlining your professional goals, which provides the recruiter with a rough idea of what to expect from you once you are hired. It indicates that you are proactive and have clear objectives for your career growth. However, as you outline your goals and objectives, ensure they align with the company’s. The objectives should showcase how you’ll benefit the company in achieving theirs.

Show Gratitude

Ensure you end your cover letter with appreciation. Recruiters review countless applications daily. Showing gratitude will add to your application points during the selection process, and make your cover letter more compelling as it shows you appreciate the recruiter’s efforts.

Make It Professional

Most people don’t usually know that there is a difference between a cover letter and a letter of interest . A cover letter must always be professional. Therefore, avoid being too casual and using slang, as that might reduce the chances of you getting hired.

Examples of How to End a Cover Letter

Cover letter ending statements enable the recruiter to assess your potential better and be curious to know more about you. Below are some examples of how to end a cover letter that are based on the tips discussed above:

How to End Your Cover Letter by Quantifying Your Goals and Expectations

I’m interested in knowing more about your incremental goals for your new project. Can we allocate an appointment to discuss how I can help? My goal is to be top-rated among the best professionals in Artificial Intelligence, with a holistic enthusiasm for skills and innovation. Your firm’s mission to transform some real-time issues is an inspiration to my abilities, and I’d be glad to contribute my knowledge to help achieve your goal.

How to End a Cover Letter with Relevant Skills

I’d love to showcase how cooperatively combining all the prefabricated materials enables me to develop a successful project model.

How to End a Cover Letter Professionally and Show Some Personal Growth

I look forward to polishing my skills at the GoTech AI firm since the position is globally dynamic.

How to End a Cover Letter with Enthusiasm

Having the chance to apply my technical skills to your AI-based project is an exciting opportunity for my career growth.

How to End a Cover Letter with Gratitude

Thank you for reviewing my application. I do appreciate your consideration and hope to get a chance to work with you.

The Don’ts of Ending a Cover Letter

Let’s now evaluate some of the things you should not do when ending a cover letter. The most crucial ones include:

• Don’t give an impression of desperation for the position. You can showcase enthusiasm for the role without seeming desperate. If you seem desperate for the position, you might not be selected for an interview.
• Don’t have errors. Not proofreading your cover letter would lead to errors that may seem unprofessional. This shows your recruiter that you are careless, thus disqualifying your application. So, ensure you double-check your letter by addressing typos and grammar using the right tools.
• Avoid Being Entitled or Boastful. If you end the letter with entitlement, making it seem like the company is obligated to hire you, might cause you to not get hired.
• Avoid slang. Professionals look for people who disclose ultimate professionalism in their team. So, maintain a professional writing style throughout your cover letter.

Related: To Whom It May Concern Alternatives

How to Sign Off a Cover Letter

After drafting the final catchy and impactful phrases, you need to end your cover letter with the right closing statement followed by your full name. For example:

Most sincerely, Tariq Wailer

Some of the signing-off phrases you should consider are:

• Thank you for your consideration
• Kind regards
• With best regards
• Respectfully yours
• Best regards

Signature Lines Not to Use

There are some signature lines that you should refrain from as they seem somehow unprofessional. They include:

• Affectionately
• Warm Regards
• Take it easy
• Yours Truly
• Have a wonderful day

Knowing how to end a cover letter properly reinforces your strengths as a candidate. The right impression compels your recruiter to move your application to the next stage. Hopefully, this article has helped you understand the do’s and don’ts of ending a cover letter.

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How To Close A Cover Letter: 7 Powerful Ways

By Christina Colclough

Last updated: April 25, 2024

It’s common (and frankly, understandable) to put lots of effort into the opening and body of a cover letter. 

But that doesn’t give you an excuse to overlook the importance of a strong cover letter conclusion; imagine the huge disappointment when an impressive start leads to a lackluster ending! Let us give you some pointers on ways to nail that final part.

In this article:

How to close out a cover letter (with cover letter examples), 1. acknowledge your recipient.

A brief, enthusiastic statement demonstrates professionalism and reaffirms your interest in the position . You should thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration, briefly restate why you want to apply for the position, and then (optionally) mention your availability for an interview or suggest a follow-up method.

“Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you regarding the [Job Title] position.”

Enthusiastic:  

“Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I’m incredibly excited about the prospect of contributing my skills and experience to [Company Name]. “

Concise:  

“Thank you for your time. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further.” (This is a very brief option, best used when brevity is essential)

2. Include Direct CTA

A clear call to action outlines the next step you’d like to take and simplifies the process for the hiring manager. It also showcases confidence in your compatibility for the role. Still, ensure your wording is courteous without sounding impatient or “pushy.” 

Direct and Enthusiastic:

“Thank you for your time and consideration. I’m incredibly enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing my skills and experience to [Company Name]. I’m available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].”

Confident, Professional:

“Thank you for your time and consideration. My skills and experience make me a strong, qualified candidate for the [Job Title] position. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.”

Subtle, Actionable:

“I appreciate your time and consideration. My resume is attached for your review. I look forward to discussing my candidacy further in an interview. Please don’t hesitate to reach out at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].”

3. Summarize Your Career Highlights

Ending on a strong note that showcases your value will keep you top-of-mind for the hiring manager and strengthen your candidacy! Of course, one or two sentences are sufficient since we’re reaching the end. Don’t rehash your entire cover letter.

“Thank you for your time and consideration. As a Team Lead at [Previous Company Name], I successfully achieved a consistent 20% increase in monthly project deliveries on time and within budget. I’m confident my leadership skills and proven ability to drive results would make me a valuable asset to your team at [Company Name].”

4. Mention The Company Goal Or Vision

Here’s your chance to explain how your skills and relevant experience can contribute to their long-term vision!

The best place to start your research is the company’s website. Look for sections titled “About Us,” “Mission Statement,” “Vision Statement,” or “Company Values.” 

Next, choose just 1 or 2 specific aspects that resonate with you and your skills. There’s no need to have everything covered!

“[Company Name]’s relentless pursuit of innovation in the [Industry] space truly inspires me. My professional background in developing cutting-edge software solutions, coupled with my personal passion for technologies, would contribute to your mission of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”

5. Talk About Your Career Goals

A strong conclusion that successfully connects your personal aspirations to the company’s vision will work in your favor. 

It’ll also likely spark a related conversation during the follow-up in-person meeting. Take that chance to further elaborate on your desired career path or explain how your skills and the company’s needs intersect! 

“Beyond my project management skills, I also envision myself contributing to future green building initiatives, and [Company Name]’s reputation for excellence in sustainable engineering projects deeply aligns with my career aspirations. I’m eager to discuss how my skills can contribute to your continued success.”

6. Leave Your Personal Note

Of course, a cover letter should primarily focus on your qualifications and suitability for the role. But sometimes, if carefully crafted, a personal note in the closing paragraph can leave a lasting impression and set you apart from other applicants.

A sentence or two is sufficient. Don’t overshadow your qualifications, and avoid overused phrases like “I’m a team player” or “I’m a hard worker.”

“As a passionate gamer myself, I’ve long admired [Company Name]’s modern approach to game development, particularly your recent success with [Specific Game Title]. My own coding skills…” 

7. Be A Bit More Specific About How You Add Value

Don’t simply list skills or be vague with phrases like “My analytical skills will help with your success.” Give them more specifics and quantify whenever possible to end your letter on a high note.

Example: 

“My proven track record aligns perfectly with [Company Name]’s focus on customer acquisition. I’m confident I can conduct in-depth audience research and competitor analysis to develop highly targeted social media campaigns.” 

Extra Tips For Formal Cover Letter Closing

Always Proofread

A closing paragraph riddled with typos or grammatical errors will undermine your professionalism and ruin all your efforts to leave a positive final impression. Double-check for mistakes and ask yourself:

• Are there any misspelled words, punctuation errors, or incorrect verb tenses?
• Are your sentences grammatically sound? Do they flow smoothly? 
• Is there any clarity issue with your word choice?

Have a friend, colleague, or family member proofread your closing paragraph. Sometimes, reading it aloud to yourself also helps you catch awkward phrasing or grammatical errors that might not be obvious when silently reading! 

Another cover letter tip : do not proofread immediately after writing your cover letter. Take a break, then return to it with fresh eyes; that way, you can spot errors you might have missed earlier.

Be Confident Yet Realistic

Be confident but do not come across as arrogant; a candidate who seems to overestimate their abilities or lacks self-awareness is not usually considered a good fit for the company culture. Here are some simple ways to avoid this deadly mistake: 

Instead of: “I’m the best candidate for this position.” (Overly confident)

Try:  

“My proven track record in [relevant skill] aligns perfectly with your requirements, and I’m confident I can make a significant contribution to your team.” (More balanced)

Instead of: “I can learn anything I need to know for this role.” (Unrealistic)

“I’m a fast learner and highly adaptable, and I’m eager to develop my expertise in [specific area] to further contribute to your team” (Demonstrates willingness to learn)

How To Sign A Cover Letter

The sign-off under the cover letter ‘ s last paragraph is your final chance to make a lasting impression! Check out some common options: 

Professional Sign-offs:

• Sincerely, – This is the most traditional and universally appropriate closing.
• Best regards, – A formal and polite closing that is also appropriate in most situations.
• Thank you for your time and consideration – Expresses gratitude to the hiring manager for reviewing your application.
• Respectfully yours, – A formal closing that conveys respect for the hiring manager.

Less Common But Acceptable Sign-offs (Use with Caution):

• Thank you, – While brief, it can work if paired with another sentence like “I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
• Regards, – Slightly less formal than “Best regards,” but still professional.

Regardless of your preference, keep the sign-off consistent and ensure it matches the formality of the rest of your cover letter. If you are sending a physical copy, leave space for your handwritten signature above the typed closing.

You might also like: How Long Should A Cover Letter Be? How To Start A Cover Letter Greeting? Who To Address Cover Letter To To Whom It May Concern Alternatives

Just because the opening grabs attention first doesn’t mean you should slack off on the conclusion. One misused word or the slightest sign of unprofessionalism might blow your only chance! If you’re still stuck on how to end a cover letter, drop us a line for more advice.

Christina J. Colclough

Dr Christina J. Colclough is an expert on The Future World of Work and the politics of digital technology advocating globally for the importance of the workers’ voice. She has extensive regional and global labour movement experience, is a sought-after keynote speaker, coach, and strategist advising progressive governments and worker organisations.

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How to End a Cover Letter: 7 Easy Ways to End on a High Note

In this guide, you’ll learn how to end a cover letter as well as 7 different ways to write a closing paragraph that leads to an interview.

End a cover letter professionally by reiterating why you’re the right fit. Summarize your application and write a forward-looking sentence like, “With my experience in [skill] and proven ability to [relevant achievement], I am confident I can contribute to [Company]'s success in [area].” Then, make the next steps clear. Here’s an example, “I am eager to discuss in more detail how my skills can benefit your team in an interview.” Lastly, thank the reader for their time and sign off with “Sincerely” or “Best regards” followed by your name. 

The best answer on how to end a cover letter is to sum up everything discussed and link back to why you’re the ideal candidate. It’s not about you, though. It’s about the company. So, make it clear how you can directly meet the company’s needs. 

From there, thank the reader for their consideration and mention that you’re looking forward to the next steps. 

That’s pretty much it when it comes to writing a cover letter closing paragraph and leaving on a high note. 

Still, there are a few variations. In this guide, you’ll learn how to end a cover letter and different ways you can approach the closing paragraph. 

Let’s jump in!

How to End a Cover Letter: 3 Things to Include

This is how to end a cover letter:

• Acknowledge the reader. You can simply thank them for their time.
• Imply the next steps. Make a direct or subtle call to action—just make sure it’s not too presumptuous.
• Sign off. End with a formal closing like, “Yours sincerely.” 

When you add each of these up, you get a professional cover letter ending that makes the next steps of the hiring process straightforward for the hiring manager.

Acknowledge the Reader

Acknowledge the reader by expressing your gratitude. Thank them for their time and consideration. If you’d even prefer, this can be the only cover letter closing line you need to end your application.

Here’s a few example phrases: ‍

• Thank you for your time and consideration • Thank you for reviewing my application • I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to your organization • Thank you for your time

Imply the Next Steps 

In other words, a call to action. This can either be direct or implicit. Let the reader know how you’re prepared to move forward in the job application process.

Here’s a few examples of a direct call to action:

• I look forward to discussing this position further with you • I am excited to discuss my qualifications in greater detail at an interview • You can reach me by phone at (XYZ) or by email at [email protected]

And here’s a few examples of an implicit call to action:

• I look forward to hearing from you • I look forward to speaking with you soon • I hope to discuss my eligibility for the role further 

Directly stating the next steps works best if you’ve already spoken with the hiring manager. Or if not and you want to be more on the safe side, implying the next steps also works. 

Write a formal closing followed by your first name and last name. This is also known as the cover letter closing salutation. 

Here’s a few professional sign-off examples: 

Sincerely, Jacob Jacquet

Yours sincerely, Jacob Jacquet

Kind regards, Jacob Jacquet

Here’s a few inappropriate sign-offs for making your exit: 

Thanks, Jacob Jacquet

Cheers, Jacob Jacquet

7 Ways to Write the Cover Letter Closing Paragraph

Here’s how to write a cover letter closing paragraph in seven different ways: 

• Thank the reader and imply the next steps.
• Include a direct call to action.
• Leave a personal note expressing your interest.
• Summarize your application and career highlights. 
• Bring up the company’s vision. 
• Share your career objectives. 
• Emphasize how you intend to add value to the organization. 

Use the one that fits best with how you outlined your cover letter . Additionally, check out our cover letter examples guide for inspiration.

1. Thank the Reader and Imply the Next Steps

Sometimes, no extra words are needed since everything has already been mentioned in the opening paragraph and main body of your cover letter . Therefore, simply end your cover letter in one line. 

See the example below. 

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.  ‍ Yours sincerely, [First and last name]

2. Include a Direct Call to Action

Make a specific call to action on how the next steps should be taken. 

As opposed to implying the next steps, be direct when stating how you’d like to move forward to radiate enthusiasm and confidence. This can be a good approach when your cover letter revolves around your passions or interests or when you’re applying for an internship opportunity .

See the examples below. 

I am now ready for a more impactful role in a larger firm, which is what motivated me to apply for the position you advertised. I will be happy to answer any questions you have in person or online, at your earliest convenience. I can be reached at (phone number) and (email). ‍ Sincerely, [First and last name]

I would love the opportunity to meet you, and I am excited to continue helping people on their path to recovery by becoming a member of [Company]’s team. I am happy to discuss the position in more detail, and you may contact me by phone at 1242-345-6789 or via email — [email protected] to arrange an interview. Thank you for your time and consideration.  Sincerely, [First and last name]

3. Leave a Personal Note Expressing Your Interest

A personal note means making a statement that expresses how you feel about the job opportunity. Whether you’re writing a letter that expresses your interest or curiosity, share why you’re looking forward to taking the next steps. 

However, keep a professional tone. 

All my experience and skills would make me a great new addition to your establishment. I have attached my resume, which contains a more in-depth look at my experiences and skills. I look forward to hearing from you and would love to visit your restaurant for an interview. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, [First and last name]

4. Summarize Your Cover Letter and Career Highlights

Taking into account what you’ve written in both your resume and cover letter , what’s the ultimate reason why hiring managers would want to hire you? Write an overview of the purpose of your application . Mention why your career highlights are significant factors to you being a qualified candidate. 

I am very enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your team. I am confident that my passion for social networking and digital media will allow me to contribute to your company’s success. I am available to discuss this position in more detail at a convenient time. Thank you for your consideration.  Sincerely, [First and last name]

5. Bring up the Company’s Vision

If you haven’t done so already, now’s the time to refer to the company’s core values and mission statement. 

Choose a particular aspect of the company culture that resonates with you the most. Share how it’s relevant to the value you can bring to the table and how you would blend in well with the company’s workplace. 

This is a good approach for those of you with no work experience as it reinforces your positioning as a strong potential candidate. 

See the example below.

My passion for this field and desire to understand graphic design, advertising and the internet align with Company Z’s approach to understanding its customers and their complex businesses and circumstances in order to provide the most effective graphic design solutions. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing this position further. Sincerely, [First and last name]

6. Share Your Career Objectives 

Impart your potential employer with why you were drawn to the job opening in the first place. Mention your career goals to show that you align with the company’s interests. 

However, your objectives must be relevant to the company’s vision. Including irrelevant goals that don't align with the company’s interests is a common cover letter mistake . 

I am looking for a position that will allow me to continue to develop my skills and grow as an analyst. My career goals include working with a team of analysts and clients to create a positive and challenging work environment, and I look forward to the next step in my career path. Sincerely, [First and last name]

Proactive, innovative, and highly influential, I am seeking a challenging but rewarding position, which is why I was naturally drawn to this exciting opportunity. Sincerely, [First and last name]

7. Share How You Intend to Add Value

Write about how you’re going to help the company solve a problem. Share the type of results that you’re capable of bringing to the organization to position yourself as a valuable asset. 

When considering what to include , be specific about how you intend to make a positive difference. To not sound arrogant though, be sure that you’ve discussed your work history in detail earlier on in your cover letter. 

I strongly believe that my strengths in organizing profitable events and driving company revenues will readily translate to your environment. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and further discuss my qualifications and your requirements in detail. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [First and last name]

4 More Factors to Consider For a Good Cover Letter Ending

Here’s a few more cover letter tips for ending your cover letter. 

Use Emotive Language

Emotive language means using words that express an emotion. Including this in your closing paragraph makes your job application feel more personal, engaging, and convincing. 

Here’s some examples: 

• I would love to… • I am confident that my passion… • I would very much appreciate…

Never Use Postscript Text

Postscript text (P.S.) isn’t bad but it's not necessary on a cover letter . 

Rather than writing a single personal note towards the end, personalize every application you send. Tailor your cover letter to the job description. This is more effective than sending a generic cover letter with only a single personal note saved until the end. 

Include an Electronic Signature 

Again, this isn’t necessary but it’s an extra step you could take to stand out from the hundreds of applications that the company is getting. That said, it's not a dealbreaker. Many of Rezi’s users who have used the AI cover letter generator have secured interviews despite not including an electronic signature. 

Maintain a Professional Tone

Writing in a conversational, friendly tone is important for creating an engaging cover letter. But it must be professional and not in an overly friendly manner. Think of it as speaking to your manager at work. 

3 Cover Letter Examples With Strong Closing Paragraphs

If your job title isn’t listed below, you’re more likely to find it in our library of 180+ cover letter templates . 

Personal Assistant

Software Engineer

Video Editor

Use Rezi AI Cover Letter Writer to Generate a Cover Letter in Seconds 

The Rezi AI Cover Letter Writer feature takes a few details from your professional background so that it can generate a tailored cover letter based on your work history and the job you’re applying to. 

Here’s how it works:

• Enter the company name.
• Write the job position/title you’re applying for. 
• Select a previous job position/title to highlight. 
• Press “AI Writer Ready”.

And that’s it. Your cover letter is (almost) complete—simply make a few tweaks to further tailor it to the company’s job description. 

You can sign up here to get started for free. 

Or, watch the video below to see how it works!

Here’s a recap on how to end a cover letter: 

• Express your enthusiasm for the work opportunity. 
• Write an overview of how your background makes you the perfect fit for the role. 
• Directly state how you can meet the company’s needs. 
• Include a call to action that’s not presumptuous.
• Thank the reader for their time and consideration.
• Use a formal sign-off like “Sincerely,” followed by your first and last name. 

And just because you should end on a high note doesn’t mean you need a flashy exit. 

Unless you’re going to add something insightful to the conversation, it’s enough to just thank the hiring manager for their time and sign off from there. Otherwise, adding fluff reduces the impact of a well-written cover letter.

Astley Cervania

Astley Cervania is a career writer and editor who has helped hundreds of thousands of job seekers build resumes and cover letters that land interviews. He is a Rezi-acknowledged expert in the field of career advice and has been delivering job success insights for 4+ years, helping readers translate their work background into a compelling job application.

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Blog Cover Letter Help How to Sign a Cover Letter

How to Sign a Cover Letter

Wondering how to end your cover letter? Whether you’re sending your letter as an email or uploading it to a job application portal, we’ve got you covered so you can sign your cover letter the right way.

As featured in *

If you want to maximize your chances of landing a job, it’s important to pay attention to even the smallest details when writing your cover letter . That’s why you should know how to properly sign your cover letter.

Our free-to-use cover letter builder can make you a cover letter in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.

Do you need to sign a cover letter?

No, you don’t need to sign a cover letter. However, signing your cover letter shows an extra level of professionalism and attention to detail that can help make a positive first impression on employers.

If you’re not sure whether or not to add a cover letter signature, here’s a quick rundown to help you decide how to end your cover letter :

Read on to find out how to correctly sign and close your cover letter.

How to sign a cover letter

You should always place your cover letter signature at the end of your cover letter after your sign-off (for example, “Sincerely,”) in business letter format .

Signing a cover letter sent by email

When signing an email cover letter , you don’t need to provide a handwritten signature. Simply write your full name at the end of the email, using the same cover letter font you use for the rest of your cover letter.

The proper format of an email cover letter signature looks like this:

Regards, [First Name] [Last Name] [Email Address] [Phone Number]

Although you should have already provided your contact details in your resume and your cover letter header , you can add them to your email signature to make sure they’re easy to find.

Examples of email cover letter closings

Here are some examples of how to sign off on an email cover letter:

Best Regards, Hector Lopez [email protected] (812) 876-6721

Sincerely, Maria Smith 763 Main Street, North Oxford, MA 01540 [email protected] (812) 745-6721

Regards, Samuel Liao [email protected] (147) 369-1701 www.linkedin.com/sliao www.samuelliao.com

How to sign a paper cover letter

Though less common, sometimes you need to mail your cover letter. You should always sign a cover letter sent by mail because it’s more professional, and requires little effort.

Here’s how to sign a printed-out cover letter:

• Leave two to three lines of blank space between your cover letter sign-off and your full name
• Print your cover letter, and sign your name using black ink in that blank space

You don’t need to include your contact information underneath your signature on a printed-out cover letter because most cover letter templates already have space at the top for this information.

Here’s how handwritten signatures should look at the end of a cover letter:

Gloria Morales

Ahote Nighthorse

How to provide an electronic cover letter signature

A cover letter attachment is a cover letter either uploaded on a job portal or attached to an email. This is different from an email cover letter, which is written in the body of an email.

Wondering how you should sign a cover letter sent as an attachment? You can either:

• Type your name
• Attach a scan of your signed cover letter
• Electronically sign your cover letter using Adobe Sign , or other software like:
• OneSpan Sign
• SignRequest

How to sign a cover letter in Word

If you’re attaching your cover letter as a Word document and want to add a personal touch to your cover letter, you can easily sign it by adding a handwritten signature digitally in a few simple steps:

First, you’ll need to create the image of your signature you want to insert at the end of your cover letter. To do this, sign a blank piece of paper and scan the page onto your computer. Save it under a common file format like .JPG or .PNG.

Next, on the Insert tab in your Word document, click Pictures > Picture from File . Select the picture of the signature you want to insert and click Insert .

You’ll have the option to crop the image to the desired size by selecting the Crop option in the Picture Tools Format tab. This tab will automatically open once you’ve inserted the picture into your Word document.

Then, right-click the image and Save as Picture to save it as a separate file.

When you’re ready to sign your cover letter, click the Insert tab again, go into Pictures , and select your signature with Picture from File .

Dominique Vatin

Career Coach and Resume Expert (CPRW)

Dominique Vatin is a Staff Writer and Career Advisor at Resume Genius. A Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), Dominique enjoys leveraging her knowledge of the career space to provide invaluable guidance for job seekers looking for more fulfilling work opportunities. With an M.A. from Yonsei University GSIS (Seoul, South Korea), Dominique’s insights have been quoted across the internet by authority websites like Yahoo! Finance and We Work Remotely. Interested in reaching out for a collaboration or a media-related query? Contact her via LinkedIn.

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How to Sign a Cover Letter

When  writing a resume cover letter , you should focus on each aspect. One of these key aspects is the conclusion of your cover letter. A good ending to a cover letter includes a proper  cover letter signature . How you  sign off your cover letter  is crucial as it will either leave the prospective employer with a positive,  professional first impression .

Choosing  how to sign off a cover letter  the right way depends on a few factors, such as the  cover letter format  of your email. However, in general, it’s better to remain  formal and professional . You can be positive and even friendly, but  avoid casual language  such as “thanks”, “cheers”, or “take care”.

If you get it wrong by  making a small mistake  or by using inappropriate language in your  cover letter ending , you risk leaving the wrong impression on the hiring manager. As employers receive  so many applications for each position , this can be enough for yours to be discounted.

The  signature on your cover letter  is a crucial part of your cover letter that you need to nail. Ensure you  sign your cover letter the right way  and leave the hiring manager with a fantastic impression. Check out the information below to ensure you know how to  conclude your cover letter in the best way possible .

How to sign a cover letter when emailing

Emailing job applications, including cover letters and resumes, is the new normal. Regarding the conclusion of your cover letter, you may be asking yourself, “do I need to sign a cover letter that is  submitted electronically ?”

You need to  have the proper sign-off  when you conclude your cover letter, even by email.

It’s essential to know how and  where to sign a cover letter  if you are emailing it to a hiring manager. Use a  professional sign-off  (such as sincerely, sincerely yours, best regards, or most sincerely) at the end of the letter, followed by your full name written underneath. Doing so makes your  cover letter  and job application that much more effective.

If you’re emailing a  cover letter with a signature  you should use a  professional sign off  (such as sincerely, sincerely yours, best regards or most sincerely) followed by your  full name written underneath .

You don’t need to sign the letter by hand when  signing a cover letter electronically . Also  avoid using italics  or an alternative font as this can look childish. Just write your full name in the  same font as the rest of the letter .

It’s also essential to clearly  include your contact details  when you  sign off a resume cover letter . It would be a tragedy if you  nailed your cover letter , spent time tailoring your resume using a   resume builder , and then the employer  didn’t know how to contact you .

An easy, time-effective way of doing this is by  setting up an email signature . You should include your name, telephone number, email address and a link to your  LinkedIn profile  (and any other useful links which may help your application).

Closing signature examples

Here are some examples of  how to sign a cover letter electronically . The first example contains the very least you should include (name, email address, and phone number). The third is the ideal example of  how to sign a cover letter via email .

Sincerely yours,

Mary Washington [email protected] 70997654

Best regards,

Mary Washington 17 Cherry Tree Lane, Portland, Oregon, 97035. [email protected] 70997654

Mary Washington 17 Cherry Tree Lane, Portland, Oregon, 97035. [email protected] 70997654 www.linkedin.com/marywashington www.personalwebsite.com

Examples of Bad Signatures on Cover Letters

Including  this part of a cover letter is essential , and doing it well can give your chances of being hired a serious boost. However, there are things you should avoid writing in your cover letter signature. In a cover letter, you as an applicant have a chance to show off some of your personality, but that  does not mean you can be too casual .

Here are some  examples of words you should avoid writing  when you are signing off your cover letter:

• Best wishes
• Take it easy
• Affectionately

It is also a good idea to not use abbreviations of words, such as “thx”. Also, erase any messages that are automatically included by your cell phone. Delete messages such as “Sent from my x phone” before sending.

How to sign a paper cover letter

Though it is  becoming less common , you may need to either  mail a cover letter  or upload one to a website. In these cases, you should leave enough space between the sign-off and your full name to  include a handwritten signature . After printing your cover letter, you should sign your name  using black ink .

For  written cover letters , you should use a formal business  cover letter format  which  includes your contact details  and those of the employer at the top of the page, as well as a  heading and salutation . As you include your contact details at the top, there is  no need to include them  with your signature as you would in an email.

Though the  importance of signing a cover letter  shouldn’t be underestimated,  how to end a cover letter  is only one part of your application. Read more  cover letter advice  for information on  writing the other parts of your cover letter  and also spend time researching  how to write a resume . Using  resume templates  is an effective way of  producing professional-looking results  quickly.

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To Whom it May Concern? How to Address and End a Cover Letter

We’ve put together a few tips to help you personalize your cover letter, whether you know the hiring manager’s name or not.

Customers Interviewed by:

In our modern age of personalization, To Whom It May Concern is both an antiquated and detached way to address a cover letter . It may also imply that you haven’t researched the company or that you assume the letter can be read by anyone. Below, we’ve put together a few tips to help you personalize your cover letter , whether you know the hiring manager’s name or not.

When it comes to addressing a cover letter, advice columns frequently spotlight these two pitfalls:

• Mistake 1 : Failing to address your cover letter to a specific person
• Mistake 2 : Addressing a cover letter to the wrong person

Most job postings don’t specify who will be reading your cover letter. This puts job seekers in a tricky situation. Fixing the first mistake could cause you to make the second. So what’s the best way to replace “To Whom It May Concern” on your cover letter?

Get instant feedback on your cover letter with Jobscan’s cover letter optimization tool. See it in action .

3 Key Tips for Addressing Your Cover Letter

1) don’t address your cover letter to the recruiter.

For many job openings, the first person you need to impress is a corporate recruiter. That doesn’t mean you should address your cover letter to them.

“Recruiters do not read cover letters,” a long-time healthcare recruiter told Jobscan . “Bottom line.”

That might be an overstatement — most don’t, some do — but many recruiters would admit that they aren’t the intended audience of a cover letter. “It’s mostly for the hiring manager,” said a recruiter in the non-profit industry. “For us [recruiters], it’s just an extra step in an already elongated process.”

The healthcare recruiter agreed: “If you’re sending it straight to a hiring manager who’s looking at a much lower number of applicants, they might actually read that.”

2) Search for the Hiring Manager’s Name

The best way to personalize your cover letter is to address the hiring manager by name. However, it can be difficult to identify the hiring manager, and your educated guess could cause you to address your cover letter to the wrong person. Here are some tips for finding the hiring manager.

Search the Company Website

Few job postings list the hiring manager by name but many will tell you the position to which you’d be reporting.

With this information, a little detective work can reveal the name of the hiring manager.

Start off by browsing the company’s website. Look for an about page, company directory, or contact page. These pages are frequently linked at the very bottom of the website. Companies that feature employees on their about page make it much easier to figure out who will be reading your cover letter.

You can also try searching the website. If the website doesn’t have a built-in search bar, use this syntax in Google:

“[position you’ll be reporting to]” site:company website

This will reveal hard-to-find about pages or other mentions of the position in the company’s blog posts, press releases, and other pages.

Search LinkedIn

If a company doesn’t list the hiring manager on their website, LinkedIn is your next best resource.

Start off by searching for the company page on LinkedIn. Once you’re on the company’s LinkedIn page, click “See all X employees on LinkedIn” near the top.

Depending on the company size, you can either browse all positions or narrow your results by adding search terms to the search bar (e.g. “Marketing Manager”) and utilizing the “Current companies” filters on the right side of the screen.

Search for the “reports to” position from the job listing. If it wasn’t provided in the listing, search for keywords related to your prospective department (e.g. “marketing”). If the company uses an intuitive corporate hierarchy  you should be able to determine who will be reading the cover letter.

Contact the Company Directly

There is nothing wrong with calling or emailing the company to ask for the name of the hiring manager. Be polite and honest with the administrative assistant or customer service representative. Explain that you’re about to apply for a job and you’d like to know who you should address in your cover letter.

If they aren’t able to provide an answer or transfer you to someone who knows, let it go. The last thing you need is word getting back to the hiring manager that you were pushy with one of their colleagues.

3) Use a More Personalized “To Whom it May Concern” Alternative

You can still personalize your cover letter, even when you don’t know the identity of the hiring manager. Instead of “To Whom It May Concern,” which casts a wide net and is specific to no one, try addressing your cover letter to one specific person.

The most generic version of this is:

Dear Hiring Manager,

But job seekers can often be more specific. Take a look at these examples:

Dear Customer Experience Manager, 

Dear Customer Experience Hiring Team Manager, 

Some other alternatives include addressing your cover letter to an entire department:

• Dear Engineering Department,

Dear Engineering Team, 

OR addressing the entire team:

Hi Jobscan Team,

Dear Jobscan Team,

As with many aspects of the job application process, demonstrating that you put in some extra effort can make a difference. Doing some research before addressing a cover letter contributes to a positive first impression.

8 cover letter salutation examples

Here are eight standard cover letter openings you can choose from. Select the one that best suits the energy of the company you’re applying to and use either a specific name or department depending on the information you have available.

• Hi Mr. Smith,
• Hello Jobscan Team,
• Dear Ms. Whittaker and Team,
• Good morning, Mr. Kennedy
• Good afternoon, Louise, 
• To the Jobscan hiring manager, 

How to end a cover letter

Just as important as beginning your cover letter is ensuring you end it on a strong note. Your cover letter ending should not be underestimated in its ability to help you move forward in the hiring process. After making your case in the previous paragraphs, you need to end your cover letter with a strong call to action to entice the recruiter to invite you for a job interview.

Madeline Mann , an HR leader in the technology industry and creator of Self Made Millennial , says that while no conclusion will save a bad cover letter, it can distinguish you from another good candidate.

It’s all about enthusiasm, according to Madeline. “Companies want people who want them,” she says. If you can draw to the company’s values and show how interested in working with them you are, that’s a substantial advantage. You want to create a lasting impression by incorporating that enthusiasm in your cover letter ending.

“Companies want people who want them” – Madeline mann

A good conclusion, in fact, should reflect the rest of your cover letter.

Set up the end of your cover letter with a strategic middle section

If you want your cover letter ending to be effective, you first need to build momentum. Most recruiters and career coaches agree that by the time you get to the end of your cover letter, it needs to possess the following three elements:

• It tells a story about yourself
• It shows your value concretely
• It calls the recruiter to action

Julia Reiter, a career coach based in Toronto, suggests that you lead up to your cover letter ending by showing that you understand the company’s current challenges and are equipped to solve them. This will make your cover letter call to action all the more effective.

Although the job description will give you information about what the company is looking to accomplish, it will not help you distinguish yourself from other applicants. Show the company you are willing to go the extra mile by researching the key industry challenges and the particular issues they might be facing (beyond the obvious ones).

For example, you can read articles from industry-related publications and get acquainted with the numbers and statistics about the particular business areas your company is engaged in. By being aware of the particular issues they are facing, you can more easily make your skillset and experiences relevant.

When you talk about your past experiences and accomplishments , make sure you mention the problems the company is facing. For example, if you are applying for a customer success manager position at a Software-as-a-Service company, a relevant issue might be high churn rates.

Instead of writing something like “my experience in customer success makes me confident I will be a great addition to your team,” write something like “When I worked at XYZ company, I was able to reduce the churn rate by 30%. With this experience and my deep knowledge of B2B consumer psychology, I am prepared to ensure we have one of the lowest churn rates in XYZ industry.”

End your letter with a call to action

You may be tempted to write that “I’m looking forward to hearing from you” for your cover letter ending. That isn’t a call to action. For Madeline, the end of a cover letter serves to give one last push and show interest and enthusiasm in a way that stands out.

Likewise, Julia says, “now that the company knows you are aware of their current challenges and are equipped to solve those challenges for them, don’t leave them hanging. Tell them how they can make your skills and experiences a reality on their team. What number can they reach you at for an interview?”

How do you conclude a cover letter? Here are 3 examples

• “I’m excited to have the opportunity to talk about how I could join your team in its quest for XYZ value. I’m particularly thrilled about XYZ project and would love to know how I can contribute to it.
• “I am keen on meeting with you to see what I can contribute to XYZ company as it moves on in its journey to XYZ goal. I am available at your convenience for a phone call or in-person meeting.”
• “I would love to get your thoughts on what I mentioned. I am happy to hop on a phone call at your earliest convenience to discuss how I can help XYZ company with XYZ issue.”

Read more : Check out our cover letter examples page, which covers a wide range of jobs, industries, and situations.

Mistakes to avoid when ending a cover letter

The mistakes people make when they end their cover letter are often the same ones they made earlier in the piece. However, they can be particularly detrimental to your chances of landing an interview if they constitute the final impression a recruiter has of you.

When ending a cover letter, avoid:

Making it about yourself instead of the company: use sentence constructions that make the recruiter see how the company is going to benefit from hiring you. For example, try to use “you” or “we” instead of “I.”

Sounding generic or robotic: we’ve all seen these cover letters that end with the same plain paragraph. If you write one of those, the last impression you’re giving is not different from those given by all other applicants.

Selling yourself short: the conclusion is your last chance to show off the value you can bring to the company. Emphasize it and use it as a segue into your call to action.

How to end a cover letter with the appropriate salutations

Always remember that recruiters review hundreds of applications for each position. When you are competing with that many candidates, the slightest mistake will disqualify you immediately Although you may not think too much of the salutations, they can hurt your chance of landing an interview.

Make sure your salutations are formal and polite. You should be respectful not only by indicating your appreciation of the recruiter’s time but also by being concise. Do not overdo your salutations and do not employ informal greetings. “Sincerely,” “Thank you for your consideration,” “kind regards,” are all safe options.

When ending your cover letter, you want to balance confidence, respect, and appreciation.

17 cover letter ending examples

Depending on the energy of the business you are applying to, and your own personality, select one of the following 17 cover letter closing options.

• Best wishes,
• Sincere thanks,
• Many thanks,
• Thanks in advance,
• Thank you for your consideration,
• Thank you for your time,
• Respectfully, 
• Sincerely, 
• Sincerely yours, 
• Yours truly, 
• Kind regards,
• With best regards,
• Looking forward to speaking with you, 
• With gratitude,

One Final Important note: Cover letters aren’t what they say they are

Cover letters don’t introduce your resume, they supplement it.

In order to get your cover letter into the hands of a hiring manager who cares, your  resume has to get past the recruiter and, in many cases, the applicant tracking system they’re using.

Try analyzing your resume below to receive instant optimization tips and recruiter insights from Jobscan so that the time you spend crafting your cover letter isn’t a waste.

The keyword analysis also shows exactly what to focus on in your cover letter.

Jobscan Premium (one month free)  even has a cover letter scan feature.

Editor’s Note: A section of this article was originally written in a separate blog post by Léandre Larouche on June 9, 2020. It has been updated and combined with this article as of June 10, 2021.

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How to Sign a Cover Letter (With Examples)

• How To Sign A Cover Letter
• Salary Requirements In Cover Letter
• Referral In Cover Letter
• Cover Letter Body
• Use Dear Sir Or Madam?
• Use Mrs. Or Ms.?

Find a Job You Really Want In

With so many applicants competing for the same job, you want to make sure every element of your application leaves the right impression .

Regardless of your letter’s contents, an improper closing section conveys a sense of unprofessionalism and ruins the entire application.

This article will show you exactly how to sign and end your cover letter professionally — so you leave a positive impression rather than a negative one.

Key Takeaways:

The end of your cover letter is what will create your final impression, so it’s important to summarize what makes you a good fit for the job, convey confidence, and thank the reader .

Avoid more casual phrases and avoid using exclamation points; express excitement about the job without slipping into less formal prose.

To be as professional as possible, you might want to physically sign your cover letter if you’re giving someone a hard copy, or use a digital signature for an electronic submission.

How to End a Cover Letter

Examples of how to end a cover letter, examples of how not to end a cover letter, does your cover letter need a written signature, how to sign an uploaded or printed cover letter, cover letter signature examples, how to sign an emailed cover letter, signature examples for emailed documents, final thoughts.

• Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

Your cover letter should maintain a professional and formal tone throughout. This is especially true for the closing, as it’s the section that leaves a final impression on the reader.

“Formal” doesn’t require that you’re robotic and cold. Feel free to be friendly or positive, but always avoid casual language. Don’t use “thanks” or “cheers”, and avoid acronyms.

Every effective cover letter closing accomplishes three goals:

Summarizes your strengths. Sum up the relevant skills and qualifications you’ve mentioned and explain how you can bring value to the company.

Shows confidence and initiative. A generic cover letter closing such as “I look forward to your reply” will be read as nothing more than an empty courtesy.

Stand-out and convey a more action-oriented tone, with a line such as : “I look forward to discussing with you how my skills can create value and solutions for the team.”

Thank the reader. Be sure to show appreciation and offer thanks to the reader for their time and consideration.

As always, remain professional rather than casual. Avoid phrases such as “Cheers” or “Yours.”

While reading the following examples, note how they achieve the three goals:

Summarizes strengths

Conveys initiative and confidence

Thanks the reader

“I believe my six years of experience as a marketing specialist , specifically in the food industry, will be a perfect match for this role. I look forward to speaking with you on how my skills can bring value to the team. Thank you for considering my application.”

“With my extensive software engineering experience, I believe I can develop effective technical solutions for your firm. I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss with you how my qualifications can contribute to the team’s success. Thank you for your time.”

“With my eight years of experience as managing director of similar projects, I am confident I can provide insight and value towards your firm’s goals. I would love the chance to speak with you on the position and what skills I could bring. Thank you for your consideration.”

“I am fascinated by your firm’s approach to creating effective user experiences. I would be delighted to discuss with you how I could leverage my ten years of UX experience to upgrade your solutions even further. Thank you for considering my application.”

“I look forward to any chance to speak about the position and what I can bring to the firm. I believe my personal values and extensive experience in the medical research field would make me a great fit for your organization. I appreciate your time and consideration.”

See if you can spot the more subtle errors in the next few examples.

“I believe my eight years of experience as a commercial trucker , especially in long-haul, will be a great match for this role. I look forward to speaking with you on how my skills can bring value to the team.”

“I look forward to an opportunity to discuss with you the position. I greatly appreciate your time and consideration.”

“With my two years of experience as a sales representative , I am confident I can provide the necessary qualifications and skills. Thank you for considering my application.”

While they thanked the reader and summarized their abilities, the writer offered no call to action for the reader to follow-up with them.

It’s commonly asked if it’s really required to end cover letters with a handwritten signature. The answer is it depends on your letter’s format.

Cover letters written on paper should always include a handwritten signature. Doing so is considered proper business etiquette, and forgetting to do so will be seen as unprofessional by recruiters .

Even if the particular reader of your letter doesn’t care, it’s smart to err on the side of caution.

For cover letters delivered through email, a signature isn’t required. However, there’s no harm in creating an electronic signature to add a touch of professionalism.

Keep reading to see exactly how you should sign both an emailed and printed cover letter.

The formal rules for how to write a cover letter may seem numerous and pointless, but it’s important to follow them to avoid standing out as unprofessional amongst other applicants following them.

Most cover letters are emailed these days. However, you might find yourself needing to upload or mail a printer cover letter and wonder how to sign it.

In these cases, a handwritten signature would be included between the sign-off and your printed full name. Keep this in mind when you’re typing it out so you remember to leave enough room.

Your signature should always be written in black ink. The sign-off should always use professional language. Use the same font as the rest of your cover letter and avoid using italics. Consider the following choices:

“Sincerely,”

“Sincerely Yours,”

“Best Regards,”

“Most Sincerely,”

Avoid casual sign-offs such as:

[Your Name]

There is never really any reason to use a sign-off other than the proper four listed above. Just as is the case for greetings such as ” Dear Hiring Manager ” or “ Dear Sir Or Madam ,” using uncommon sign-offs just isn’t worth the risk.

The cover letter should be formatted single-spaced throughout, with an additional space between sections. This includes between your closing paragraph and sign-off. If your contact details are not written in the header, include them after your name.

Here we’ll provide you both a template and a visual example to help you sign your own printed cover letter. Note the spacing used in these examples.

Template Example:

“….thank you for considering my application.” [Sincerely, Best Regards] [Written signature in black ink] [Your full name (typed)] [Your e-mail address] [Tel:(including country/area code)]

Visual Example:

“…thank you for considering my application.” Sincerely, Alex Loizos [email protected] (555) 333 2222

Emailed cover letters do not need a handwritten signature. However, doing so adds a touch of professionalism and won’t hurt your letter.

An emailed letter with a signature looks the exact same as a printed one, except that your signature would be created electronically. Look up how to generate an electronic signature for whatever email service you use.

If you choose to not include a signature, then the rest of the sign-off stays the same. Same single-spacing, with consistent font and no italics.

Visual Example #1:

Visual Example #2:

“…thank you for your time.” Best Regards, Stacy Smith [email protected] (321) 412 2552

The importance of sending a well-written cover letter is underrated. Even with an impressive resume , hiring managers know you as nothing more than a name on a paper and a list of achievements.

Cover letters convey two things that resumes alone cannot: professionalism and initiative.

A discussion of your qualifications and achievements in your letter, followed by an offer for further discussion, is what will lead the recruiter to pick up the phone.

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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How to End A Cover Letter (Tips & Examples)

• Cover letter
• · May 30 2024
• · 5 min read

Table of contents

A good cover letter not only provides the chance to authentically communicate your enthusiasm for the role but also highlights to the recruiter or hiring manager that you invested the time and effort to understand the job before applying. This distinction is vital, as a well-written cover letter sets you apart from other candidates, even in cases where your CV perfectly aligns with your career goals.

Looking to create a professional cover letter?

What is a cover letter.

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your CV or resume when you apply for a job. Its purpose is to introduce yourself, highlight your relevant skills and experiences, and explain why you are a strong fit for the position you are applying for.

What to include in a cover letter?

A cover letter should follow a clear structure ; this includes drawing it to a close. This article provides tips on how to end a cover letter. From expressing gratitude to aligning your values with the company, we'll guide you through elements that will make your closing remarks leave a lasting impression.

Unlock new job opportunities with a perfect cover letter

5 tips on how to end a cover letter, 1. express genuine gratitude.

Expressing gratitude in your cover letter goes beyond mere formality; it is an opportunity to sincerely acknowledge and appreciate the time and consideration the reader is investing in reviewing your application. Start by acknowledging the privilege of applying for the position and convey your thankfulness for the opportunity. For example, "Thank you for considering my application for the Marketing Manager role at Tesco."

2. Demonstrate proactiveness

Start by expressing excitement about the prospect of joining the company and emphasise your keen interest in the position. Share specific aspects of the role that excite you, such as challenges you're eager to tackle or projects you're enthusiastic about contributing to. To exhibit initiative, consider mentioning relevant achievements or skills that directly align with the job requirements. Highlight any proactive steps you've taken in your previous roles or experiences that showcase your ability to take charge and deliver results. For example, "The challenges outlined in the Software Developer role align perfectly with my passion for problem-solving."

3. Highlight your understanding of the role

When reaffirming your comprehension of the role's requirements in your cover letter, aim to provide a clear and compelling connection between your skills and experiences and the company's specific needs. Start by referencing the key requirements outlined in the job description, showcasing your understanding of what the position demands. Elaborate on how your skill set aligns seamlessly with these requirements.

Offer specific examples or achievements from your past experiences that directly relate to the competencies sought by the company. This could include relevant projects you've worked on, skills you've honed, or specific accomplishments demonstrating your ability to excel in similar task

4. Reemphasise how your values align with the company

When reinforcing your commitment to shared values in your cover letter, aim to connect your personal and professional principles and the company's core values, mission, and culture. Start by researching and understanding the company's values, mission statement, and cultural ethos. Highlight specific aspects of the company's mission or values that resonate with you on a personal and professional level. For example, "I am drawn to the company not only for its impressive track record but also for its commitment to sustainable development."

5. Maintain professionalism

When concluding your cover letter with a confident and professional tone, aim to leave a lasting impression that reinforces your suitability for the position. Emphasise your readiness to excel in the role by crafting closing remarks that exude self-assurance and competence. Summarise your key qualifications and express your confidence in your ability to meet and exceed the expectations of the position.

If you opt for AI tools, keep in mind that automated or non-human-generated content is easily discernible. Therefore, if you choose this approach, we advise you to infuse your cover letter with a personal touch.

Examples of how to end a cover letter

Example 1:  

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Bol and would welcome the chance to discuss how my skills and experiences align with your organisation's goals in more detail. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, Oliver Morgan

Example 2:  

I am eager to further discuss how my background and skills make me a strong fit for the Head of Marketing position. I would appreciate the opportunity to interview with you and explore how I can contribute to the success of Tesco. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best, Lisa Pearse

Example 3 : 

I look forward to the possibility of contributing to J&J Lawyers and am confident that my skills make me a strong candidate for the position. Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you in more detail. Regards, John Smith

Example 4:  

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining NHS and contributing to its success. I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with the needs of your team. Best, Charles Bunting

Example 5:  

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to ASCR Group and am confident in my ability to excel in the Construction Manager role. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my candidacy further. Kind Regards, Sally Wilson

For more tips, refer to how to start a cover letter.

How to sign-off a cover letter

A professional sign-off in a cover letter is crucial as it leaves a lasting impression on prospective employers. It conveys a sense of respect, courtesy, and attention to detail, reflecting positively on the candidate's professionalism.

Yours sincerely,

Best regards,

Warm regards,

Kind regards,

Yours Truly

Best Wishes

Respectfully,

Yours respectfully,

Key takeaways

The significance of a well-crafted cover letter sign-off cannot be overstated. It's your final chance to leave an impression on potential employers. By following tips and incorporating practical examples in your closing, you elevate your application, making it memorable and distinct in a competitive job market. 

Additional tips on how not to end a cover letter:

Be vigilant about typos; thoroughly proofread your content.

Ensure you include your complete name.

Avoid crafting overly generic conclusions.

Maintain a professional tone throughout.

Strike a balance by providing sufficient information without overwhelming the reader; keep it concise and straightforward.

Next steps?

Explore our extensive selection of professional cover letter templates , paired with corresponding CV templates and examples that you can effortlessly customise. If you require assistance refining your cover letter or CV, our team is here to assist. Learn more about our CV Writing Services and how we can help you.

What is the last thing you put on a cover letter?

The last section of a cover letter typically includes the closing remarks, your chosen sign-off (e.g., "Sincerely" or "Best Regards"), and your typed name. Below your typed name, you may include additional contact information if not provided elsewhere in the letter.

What should you always end a cover letter by?

It's advisable to always end a cover letter by expressing appreciation for the opportunity, stating your enthusiasm for the position, and leaving the door open for further discussion. A courteous and positive closing can leave a favourable impression on the employer.

How do you end a cover letter instead of sincerely?

Instead of using "Sincerely," you can consider alternative professional closings, such as "Best Regards," "Kind Regards," "Yours Truly," or "Thank You." Choose a closing that aligns with the tone of your letter and maintains a level of formality.

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How to Sign a Cover Letter (With 70+ Signatures)

Introduction.

The job application process can be stressful, and one question that many job seekers find themselves asking is, "Should I sign my cover letter?" In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the history of signing documents, the pros and cons of signing a cover letter, and the psychology behind signed cover letters. Our aim is to help you make an informed decision on whether to sign your cover letter and how to do it professionally.

Signing a cover letter can demonstrate professionalism and attention to detail, making a positive impression on potential employers. Although it is not strictly required, it can set you apart from other applicants and show that you have taken the time to personalize your application.

The History of Signing Documents

Understanding the history of signing documents can provide context for the modern job application process and the relevance of signed cover letters. Historically, signatures were used for authentication and agreement, and people signed documents to confirm their identity or consent to the terms of a contract. This practice dates back to ancient civilizations, where rulers and officials would use seals or other unique marks to authenticate written records.

As technology evolved, the transition from physical signatures to electronic signatures began. Today, electronic signatures are widely accepted and legally binding in many countries. The role of signatures in the job application process has also evolved, with many job seekers now submitting electronic cover letters and resumes. However, the history of signing documents and the perceived importance of signed cover letters remain relevant, as they can demonstrate a level of formality and personal touch that hiring managers may appreciate.

The Psychology Behind Signed Cover Letters

The impact of a signed cover letter on hiring managers can be better understood by examining the psychology behind the perception of signed documents. One study published in Psychology Today found that signatures can convey a sense of trustworthiness and commitment. By signing your cover letter, you are essentially putting your name behind your words and expressing your genuine interest in the position.

A signed cover letter may also help establish a personal connection between the applicant and the hiring manager. As mentioned in Authors Cast , using a professional sign-off followed by your full name can create a sense of authenticity and sincerity. This personal touch can make your application more memorable and help you stand out from other candidates.

However, it's important to consider potential negative psychological effects of a signed cover letter. For example, if your signature is illegible or overly casual, it may give the impression that you lack professionalism or attention to detail. To maximize the positive psychological impact of a signed cover letter, ensure that your signature is clear, professional, and consistent with the tone of your application.

How to Sign a Paper Cover Letter

Properly signing a paper cover letter can demonstrate professionalism and attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure that your signature adds value to your application:

Placement : Your signature should be placed at the end of your cover letter, after your closing statement. Leave a space between your closing statement (e.g., "Sincerely" or "Best regards") and your signature to give your signature room to stand out.

Professional sign-off : Use a professional closing statement, such as "Sincerely," "Best regards," or "Yours faithfully," to set the tone for your signature. Avoid overly casual or informal sign-offs, which may give a negative impression.

Pen and ink color : According to Modern Fuel , it's best to use blue or black ink for signing documents, as these colors are considered professional and easy to read. Blue ink is often preferred, as it can help your signature stand out from the rest of the black text on your cover letter.

Size and legibility : Your signature should be large enough to be easily read, but not so large that it dominates the page. Legibility is key; if your signature is difficult to read, it may give the impression that you lack attention to detail.

Neatness : Sign your cover letter neatly and cleanly, avoiding any smudges or ink blots. This demonstrates care and professionalism, reinforcing the positive impression you want to make on potential employers.

Common Concerns and Misconceptions

Addressing common concerns and misconceptions about signing cover letters can help job seekers make informed decisions and avoid potential mistakes.

Formality : Some job seekers worry that signing a cover letter may appear too formal. While it's true that a signature can add a level of formality, it's important to consider the specific job application and industry. In more traditional or conservative industries, a signed cover letter may be expected and appreciated. In more casual settings, a typed name may suffice.

Necessity : There's a misconception that signing a cover letter is no longer necessary due to electronic submissions. While it's true that electronic submissions have become more common, signing a cover letter (even electronically) can still convey professionalism and attention to detail.

Adapting to the job application and industry : The decision to sign your cover letter should be based on the specific job application and industry. If you're unsure whether a signature is expected or appropriate, research the company culture and industry norms to make an informed decision.

Consequences of not signing : Not signing a cover letter when it's expected can make your application appear incomplete or careless. However, in many cases, a missing signature is unlikely to be a deal-breaker. It's more important to focus on creating a well-written, tailored cover letter that highlights your skills and experience.

When a signature may not be required but could be beneficial : In some cases, a signature may not be strictly required, but including one can still make a positive impression. If you're unsure whether to sign your cover letter, consider the potential benefits of demonstrating professionalism and attention to detail, and weigh these against any potential drawbacks.

Signature Examples in Cover Letters

It's important to sign your cover letter with a suitable closing that reflects your level of professionalism and aligns with the company's culture. Below are examples of professional and appropriate signatures:

Example 1: Simple and Classic

This approach is straightforward and appropriate for any professional context.

Sincerely, John Doe

Example 2: Respectful and Formal

This sign-off conveys a high degree of formality and respect, suitable for traditional industries or companies.

Yours faithfully, Jane Smith

Example 3: Courteous and Personal

This closing adds a touch of personal warmth while still maintaining a professional tone.

Best regards, Robert Johnson

Example 4: Warm and Professional

This closing is slightly less formal, but still conveys respect and professionalism, making it suitable for many modern businesses.

Kind regards, Emily Davis

Example 5: Professional and Polite

This closing demonstrates a high level of respect and formality, making it a safe choice when you are unsure of the company's expectations.

Respectfully, Samuel Johnson

Remember, it's important to match the formality of your sign-off with the company's culture and the nature of the role you are applying for. These signatures are professionally acceptable and can be adapted to most situations, making them excellent choices when signing your cover letter.

Full List Of Signatures For A Cover Letter

In a professional setting, the way you close your cover letter can leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager. It's an opportunity to exude professionalism and reflect your personal style. To help you leave a positive and memorable impression, we've compiled a list of 70 professional cover letter signatures. These range from traditional closings starting with "Best Regards" and "Sincerely," to more unique ones like "Yours in Faithful Service" and "In Earnest Hope". Remember, it's essential to match the tone and formality of your signature with the culture of the company and the role you're applying for.

Choose the signature that best aligns with your personal style and the tone set in your cover letter. Whether you opt for a traditional closing or decide to stand out with something a bit more unique, this list offers a wide range of options to suit every professional context.

• Best Regards
• Warm Regards
• Kind Regards
• With Appreciation
• Yours Truly
• Respectfully
• Best Wishes
• Yours Respectfully
• With Gratitude
• Sincere Regards
• Many Thanks
• Yours Sincerely
• Thanks in Advance
• Yours in Service
• With Thanks
• Yours With Gratitude
• Sincere Thanks
• Yours in Partnership
• Appreciatively
• Sincerely Yours
• Faithfully Yours
• In Gratitude
• Respectfully Yours
• Wishing You Well
• Yours in Gratitude
• With Respect
• Thanking You
• With Warmth
• Thank You for Your Consideration
• Best to You
• Yours in Appreciation
• Cordially Yours
• In Kindness
• Thank You for Your Time
• With Sincerity
• Warmly Yours
• With Best Wishes
• Warmest Regards
• Looking Forward
• With Anticipation
• In Anticipation
• Yours Eagerly
• With Assurance
• Yours Hopefully
• Best Regards to You
• Wishing You the Best
• Yours Expectantly
• In Respectful Anticipation
• Regards to You
• In Hopeful Expectation
• With High Hopes
• Yours in Hope
• Hopeful Regards
• Yours in Anticipation
• With Great Expectation

Signing a cover letter can demonstrate professionalism and attention to detail, making a positive impression on potential employers, although it is not strictly required. Throughout this article, we've explored the history of signing documents, the pros and cons of signing a cover letter, the psychological impact of signed cover letters on hiring managers, and best practices for signing both paper and electronic cover letters. We've also addressed common concerns and misconceptions about cover letter signatures.

As you consider whether to sign your cover letter, remember to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks, and consider the specific job application and industry. Ultimately, the decision to sign your cover letter is up to you, but understanding the factors at play can help you make an informed choice.

We encourage you to share your experiences and ask any questions you may have in the comments below. Good luck with your job search, and may your cover letter – signed or unsigned – help you secure the position you desire!

How To Write a Cover Letter in 3 Easy Paragraphs

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Although you might have written a resume before, cover letters can be a bigger mystery. The good news is: by following a simple, three-paragraph process, you can quickly write a cover letter that will get attention and likely lead to a job interview!

What Is a Cover Letter?

Imagine you’re handing your resume to someone in person. Maybe you’re at a job or career fair, going into an employer’s office, or even handing it to an acquaintance so that they can get it to the hiring manager. You wouldn’t just give that person your resume, turn, and walk away without saying a word. You would probably take the time to  introduce yourself  and explain why you’re giving that person your resume, how you found out about the job, and why you think you’re qualified for it.

That’s the  purpose of a cover letter .

The cover letter is a more personalized introduction than your resume. It’s a message that represents what you would otherwise say in person, face-to-face. It should be uniquely written for each company and position, follow a standard; one-page business letter format, and consist of three to four paragraphs. If possible, it should also include the hiring manager’s name.

The cover letter usually accompanies a resume. It allows you to expand on the  information in the resume  or explain something that might appear as a red flag or barrier to employment. However, just as important is that the cover letter allows the recruiter to assess your written communication skills!

Why Do I Need a Cover Letter?

Cover letters aren’t always required for a job application. Often, they’re listed as an optional document. Most applicants  won’t  submit a cover letter because of this (let’s face it, job applications can take a lot of time!). However, this also means that submitting a cover letter is an extra step that will help you to stand out from the other applicants — and show how interested you are in the position!

How Do I Write a Cover Letter?

Here’s how to write a cover letter in three easy paragraphs:

Paragraph 1 (About You)

This is where you briefly introduce yourself, what position you’re interested in, and how you discovered it (i.e., job posting site, flyer, social media). If someone recommended you for the position, drop their name in the very first sentence and include their title and affiliation.

Also be enthusiastic! List three of your most important or impressive qualifications from your resume to explain why you’re applying for the position. You may also wish to include the degree or program you’re currently studying.

Example: I’m applying for your Human Resource Specialist position found on LinkedIn, as recommended by John Smith, your Office of Human Resource Manager. I would be a valuable addition to your team, with my five years of administrative experience, BAS in Organizational Management, and Microsoft Office certification.

Paragraph 2 (About the Company)

Answer the question “Why do you want to work here?” by researching the company and writing about at least one way that you resonate with its culture, values, or mission. You can get great information by visiting the company’s website (check the About Us or Mission/Vision pages) or by looking them up in the news category of your favorite search engine. Emphasize how your experience meets the company’s needs and why it would be a privilege to work for them.

Example: Congratulations on your team participating in a local Habitat for Humanity build. I would love to work for an organization that is so committed to improving our local communities. I’ve personally participated in four Habitat for Humanity builds; the skills I’ve learned, coupled with the knowledge I gained, have inspired me to seek out other, similar volunteer opportunities within our community.

Paragraph 3 (Thank You and Closing)

Be sure to thank the employer/hiring manager, provide contact information, and mention that you look forward to hearing from them. Express enthusiasm about an upcoming interview!

Example: Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing my professional experience in greater detail in an upcoming interview. You can reach me at [phone number] or [email address].

Is There a Cover Letter Template I Can Use?

Microsoft Word has many attractive and pre-formatted cover letter templates you can use. Simply open Microsoft Word, click new, and then search for “cover letter” to browse all the options.

You can also use this cover letter template sample for reference:

Who Can Help Me Write a Cover Letter?

Eastern Florida State College’s Career Services team is here to assist! Did you know you can  schedule meetings with an EFSC Career Services Coordinator  to get help writing a cover letter?

Whether you have questions about your career path, job hunting, or interview preparation, you can contact your campus’ Career Services Center for personalized assistance or  check our our upcoming events . We look forward to helping you succeed this semester and beyond!

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How to address a cover letter without a name

Writing a cover letter and  tailoring it to the job you’re applying for can be tricky, especially when you can’t find the details of whom you’re meant to address it to. This seemingly small stumbling block could pause your progress. What to do?

In this article, we cover best practices and approaches to address a cover letter when the recipient is unknown. Here are some tips for success and mistakes to avoid when addressing your cover letter without a name.

Whom to address a cover letter to if no name is provided?  

How to start a cover letter without a name   

How to find the right name for your cover letter  

Cover letter with no name – examples

Whom to address a cover letter to if no name is provided?

The ideal scenario is to  address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager by name. This approach shows you care about the role enough to find out who your boss would be, and helps personalise your letter. It’s a great way to capture their attention.

But what happens when a job posting doesn’t include the name of the hiring manager or contact details? It may be a hurdle, but it doesn’t mean you can’t make a strong, personable connection. In these cases, different approaches can be used to maintain professionalism while still making a personal impact.

How to start a cover   letter without a name  

Starting your cover letter to an unknown recipient is important, to help you create a professional and engaging tone. Here are some ways you can  open your letter , ensuring it captures attention and conveys respect.

Using ‘Dear Hiring Manager’   

‘ Dear Hiring Manager ’ is a universally accepted option when the name of the recipient is unknown. (The hiring manager is usually the person you’d be reporting to in the role.) This approach holds a high level of professionalism and formality, which is appropriate for most types of  job applications . It ensures your cover letter is likely to be directed to the correct person or at least to someone with hiring responsibilities.

Addressing the letter to the hiring team   

Choosing to address  your cover letter to the department's hiring team shows you have taken the time to research the company and understand its structure. A ‘hiring team’ generally includes the direct manager of the vacant position, plus senior colleagues or teammates you’d be working most closely with. To tailor your letter effectively, look for the specific department name either in the job posting or on the company website. This shows a proactive approach to your job application.

Use a formal address in a cover letter   

Using a formal address such as  ‘ Dear Recruitment Officer ’ is less common but still works if the job posting provides a generic title. It’s important to use the exact title mentioned to keep it professional and ensure the letter reflects the specific role or department outlined in the description.

Do not assume gender or marital status   

It’s important to avoid assuming the gender or marital status of the recipient. Phrases like  ‘ Dear Sir/Madam ’ are outdated and can be seen as impersonal. Use titles like Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss only if you are certain of the recipient’s preferred title, which is rarely the case when the name is unknown.

Use job profiles and processional titles   

Addressing your cover letter to a job profile or professional title, such as  ‘ Dear Head of Sales, ’ can be effective if the job posting clearly mentions a specific department or senior position. This approach is less formal than other options but can be a great way to add personalisation.

Avoid using ‘To whom it may concern’   

The phrase  ‘ To Whom It May Concern ’ is considered outdated and impersonal. Because it’s generic, it could be seen as a lack of effort on your behalf, in trying to find the right contact person. You should always try to avoid making your  application appear generic , as it’s less likely to capture the attention of the hiring manager. Instead, opt for more personalised alternatives.

Avoid addressing your cover letter to recruiters   

Directly addressing your cover letter to  recruiters is generally not recommended unless requested, as they may not be the decision-makers for the position you’re applying for. Focus instead on addressing it to either the  hiring manager or the relevant team that is directly involved with the role.

Address the cover letter to the right person    

It’s important to make every effort to address your  cover letter to the most relevant person or team. This shows you’re really invested in the role and that you’ve carried out thorough research and increases your chances of your application being reviewed by the right person. Use all available resources, including the job posting, company website and  professional networking platforms , to find the best recipient for your cover letter. 

How to find the right   name for your cover letter

Finding the right name to address in your cover letter can have a big impact and create a personal connection. Here are some methods for  researching this crucial piece of information to ensure your application is as targeted and effective as possible.

Read the job description thoroughly   

The job description is the most likely place you’ll find clues for whom you should address in your cover letter. Take a close look to see if it mentions the name or title of the hiring manager. Contact details such as an email or a direct line might be provided, particularly in smaller companies, offering you insight into how to personalise your cover letter. 

Visit the profile of the job publisher   

Many job boards allow you to view the profile of the company that posted the job. This company profile can sometimes reveal the name of the hiring manager or relevant department responsible for the listing. Accessing this information directly from the job board can be a simple yet effective way to personalise your cover letter and show your attention to detail skills. The company’s official website might also have an Our Team page where you can see employees’ names and roles. 

Do a quick search   

If in doubt… search online. Use the company name along with the job title or department as search terms, and consider using quotation marks around your search phrase to narrow down the results more accurately. This can help uncover the name of the hiring manager or relevant contacts posted on the company’s official website or professional networking sites. 

Network with people in the company   

If you have  connections at the company , now’s the time to reach out for some inside information about the hiring process and the name of the hiring manager. This helps when it comes to personalising your cover letter and also provides insights into the company culture and other job-related details.  

Cover letter with no name –  examples

Writing a cover letter without a name can still be effective with the right approach. Here are some examples to give you an idea.

Subject: Application for Project Coordinator Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

I’m writing to express my interest in the project coordinator position advertised on your website. With a proven track record in project management and a passion for continuous improvement, I believe I am a strong candidate for this role. My experience at XYZ Corp, where I led cross-functional teams to deliver projects within strict deadlines and budgets, aligns closely with the responsibilities of this position.

I am particularly drawn to this opportunity because of your company's commitment to innovation and quality, values I have upheld throughout my career. I am eager to bring my expertise in project planning and stakeholder engagement to your team, contributing to successful project outcomes and organisational growth.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my background, skills, and enthusiasm align with the goals of your team.

Kind regards,

Takeshi Sugi

Subject: Enthusiastic Candidate for Marketing Coordinator Position

Dear marketing coordinator hiring team,

I’m excited to submit my application for the marketing coordinator role advertised on  SEEK.com.au . With a solid background in digital marketing and a deep understanding of communication strategies, I’m ready to contribute to your department’s goals.

At my current workplace, I successfully increased our social media engagement by over 50% through targeted content campaigns and data-driven decision-making. I am keen to bring my skills in social media strategy and analytics to your company, supporting your efforts to expand your digital footprint and engage with a broader audience.

I admire your team's innovative approach to marketing and am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute in such a dynamic role. I am confident that my proactive style and commitment to excellence would be a great match for your company.

Thank you for considering my application. I hope to discuss in further detail how I can contribute to your team.

Warmest regards,

Ilana Mauboy

The way you address your cover letter can shape the  first impression you make. By thoughtfully choosing how to address your cover letter when you don't know the name –whether to a hiring manager, a team, or a department – you set a professional tone right from the start. By following the methods outlined in this guide and dedicating the time to write a well-written and personalised cover letter, you can help your application stand out. Remember: every part of your  job application is an opportunity to demonstrate your  attention to detail and conscientiousness. 

If the job posting mentions a department, should I address the cover letter to that department or the hiring manager within it? 

Address the cover letter to the hiring manager within that department if possible. If the manager's name is not available, addressing it to the department (e.g.,  Dear Marketing Department ) is a good alternative. 

Should I address my cover letter to the recruiter who contacted me about the job? 

Yes, if a  recruiter contacted you directly about the job opportunity, you should address the cover letter to them. This personalises your response and helps in maintaining continuity in communication.

Where can I find the company website or social media profiles to potentially discover the hiring manager's name? 

Company websites are typically the best source for accurate and up-to-date information. Look for sections like  About Us, Team  or Staff . Social media platforms are also great for  researching company staff , especially for finding out the names and titles of department heads or hiring managers.

Is it appropriate to reach out to someone at the company to ask about the hiring manager? 

Yes, it is appropriate to reach out to someone at the company, especially if you have a professional connection. This can be done through  professional networking sites. Ensure your approach is courteous and professional, expressing genuine interest in learning more about the role and the company.

If I can't find the hiring manager’s name anywhere, which approach from this guide should I prioritise? 

If you can’t find the hiring manager's name, the safest and most professional approach is to use  Dear Hiring Manager . This is widely accepted and ensures that your cover letter is appropriately directed without making incorrect assumptions about personal details.

How can I ensure my cover letter opening is strong even without a personalised salutation? 

To ensure a strong opening for your cover letter without a personalised salutation, focus on an introductory paragraph that highlights your enthusiasm for the position and your most relevant qualifications, and how they align with the job’s requirements. Starting with a strong statement about your  professional background or a notable achievement can capture the reader's attention.

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Calls for Biden to Step Aside Are About to Get Deafening

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For Democrats who tuned into Thursday night’s debate looking to calm their worries about President Joe Biden’s age and acuity, they came away with zero remedy. Within 10 minutes of the CNN-hosted event’s start, some of even Biden’s most loyal supporters found themselves asking if the nomination was, in fact, settled.

How bad was it? Vice President Kamala Harris rushed to join the clean-up, booking late-night cable appearances.

“Yes, there was a slow start but a strong finish,” said Harris, whose prospects for replacing her boss on the top of the ticket were getting hard scrutiny in real time as the debate unfolded. “Listen, people can debate on style points, but ultimately, this election and who is the President of the United States has to be about substance, and the contrast is clear,” she said on CNN in a show of unity with her boss.

At times jarring and deserving of double-takes, the evening left Democratic insiders gobsmacked . His campaign team tried to mask the disaster but there was no denying things did not go as planned. And with a painful 53 days until Democrats have their next big night in front of a national audience with the opening of their nominating convention in Chicago, the fumbling impression left Thursday evening is going to be the image that endures for a stretch.

Biden has faced pivotal nights like this before, the most analogous being his March State of the Union. Then, as now, voters were looking more at Biden’s performance than substance. The fears about the President’s capabilities faded somewhat when Biden nailed that performance. No one would say anything close to that on Thursday.

At times seeming to seize up and at others appearing confused, Biden rambled his way through a 90-minute session against former President Donald Trump. While it evened-out as the night progressed and Biden loosened up, the initial burst of anxiety among Democrats was not the prototypical bed-wetting that the President’s inner circle has proven adept at brushing off. The split-screen was impossible to ignore: Trump was not only more restrained than is typical for him, but he looked steadier even as he dodged specific questions in favor of populist platitudes.

Read more : Trump’s Debate Strategy Was to Let Biden Bury Himself

Biden took the stage with small, slow steps. He often steadied himself with both hands on his lectern. He looked down during some uncomfortable moments, appearing to zone out. And some of his answers veered wildly away from their intended marks, such as his invocation of Americans murdered by those in the country illegally. The question in play? About abortion rights.

"I spent half my career being criticized for being the youngest,” Biden said when asked directly about his age. Then, unprompted, he started talking about computer chips. “This guy is three years younger and a lot less competent,” he said of Trump.

There are some facts that no performance—even a flawless one—can erase or reverse. These are the two oldest presumptive nominees in history. The presidency takes a toll on everyone, and both men moved into the Oval Office as not-young men. At the time of their first head-to-head debate in 2020, they seemed like patrician party elders trying to steady a nation wrecked by a pandemic. Four years have not helped either look younger, and there is no denying that Biden, in particular, looks a little less steady, his voice a bit thinner, his jabs a little duller. Certainly, this Biden is not the man who stopped the panic inside Democratic circles in 2012 after Barack Obama’s objectively terrible first debate against Mitt Romney. 

The stakes for such an evening are always high. Americans are facing a choice between an 81-year-old sage with a literal senatorial vein and forgetful streak or a 78-year-old blowhard dragging behind him felony convictions and looming indictments. At the core of the decision is one posed by Ronald Reagan in the lone debate of the 1980 presidential race: “Are you better off today than you were four years ago?”

Read More : Our Exclusive Interview with President Joe Biden

The debate comes at a moment of a tight campaign, with Trump narrowly leading in most national polls and sitting stronger in the handful of states that will ultimately decide the race. Trump has narrowed Biden’s fundraising advantage and seems to have paid no real price for his 34 felony convictions in New York. And, it’s not exactly a secret even among Biden’s biggest defenders that the incumbent needed to knock it out of the park on Thursday .  

"I really don't know what he said at the end of that sentence. I don't think he knows what he said either,” Trump said in an early moment that thwacked hard. “We’re trying to justify his presidency,” he said later.

Biden’s showing did little to remedy that reality. Message chains among Washington Democrats devolved as the night unfolded into crippling anxiety. “Unintelligible must have been the [closed captioning],” one senior Democrat strategist mused. “It would have been the most honest.”

Panic is not too strong of a word to describe some of those conversations . More than a few text chains were asking who knew the Democratic National Committee rules about how a nominee is locked in. Every elder strategist who still hopes to be part of the Biden orbit seemed to have found themselves on flights Thursday evening, unable to comment because they claimed they weren’t even watching.

Trump is, at his core, a showman with few beliefs of his own. Biden, who has a half-century of debating under his belt and spent a week secluded at Camp David practicing for the debate, did not put on a matching spectacle. Instead, Biden tried to prosecute the fact-based case against Trump while his predecessor danced around the specifics and hurled invective back across the eight-foot gap between the men.

“He gets paid by China. He’s a Manchurian candidate,” Trump said.

A cheap shot, sure. But it’s one that rings much louder than almost anything Biden had at the ready. 

“If he wins this election, our country doesn’t stand a chance,” Trump said, reverting to vague warnings. 

A disturbing echo of that sentiment kept coming through: if Biden remains the nominee, Democrats might not, either.

There were still small reasons for Democrats to hold out hope, however faint. Trump remains a petty figure who continues to insist the 2020 election was rigged and thus illegitimate. He continues to vow retribution against those who he thinks wronged him. “Joe could be a convicted felon,” Trump said. “This man is a criminal.” And Trump—who is a convicted felon—continued to hurl inaccurate statements and fling innuendo all while flagrantly misrepresenting his own histories.

"The only person on this stage that is a convicted felon is the man I am looking at right now,” Biden said.

Biden also tried to fact-check Trump and landed some rehearsed barbs. “You have the morals of an alley cat,” Biden said in one honed line, ticking through a litany of Trump’s history.

But Biden’s rejoinders were no match for Trump’s antagonism. It was clear Biden had prepared, but he suffered from the curse of someone who memorizes a script without understanding any of its subtext. To summon the words he hammered home, he often appeared to be staring off into space.

Trump, meanwhile, just showed up and was himself with a coded appeal to his base supporters.

“You’ve destroyed the lives of so many people,” Trump said, accusing Biden of ruining the lives of innocent individuals connected to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. He continued to insist that the protestors who sacked Capitol Hill were escorted in by police. And, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, Trump continued to indulge in the Big Lie that he had actually won but the results were rigged.

“There’s no evidence at all,” Biden said.

He was right. But that’s the norm when it comes to Trump. What isn’t the norm—at least not to most Americans—is seeing a President seeming to sleepwalk through 90 minutes of live television.

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Write to Philip Elliott at [email protected]

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Mortgage Commitment Letter vs. Clear to Close: An Overview

Mortgage commitment letter, clear to close, mortgage commitment letter vs. clear to close: key differences, importance of both documents, the bottom line.

• Buying a Home

Mortgage Commitment Letter vs. Clear to Close: What's the Difference?

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A mortgage commitment letter is a letter issued by a bank or other lender stating that it has approved you for a home loan, although certain conditions may still need to be met. When the lender issues a clear to close, it means that all of the conditions for the loan have been satisfied and you're just a few signed documents away from becoming a homeowner.

Key Takeaways

• A mortgage commitment letter is a document issued by a lender that confirms its willingness to provide a loan to the borrower.
• Clear to close refers to a later stage in the loan approval process where all conditions have been met and the loan is ready for closing.
• Both the mortgage commitment letter and clear to close are crucial milestones in the home buying process.
• The mortgage commitment letter and clear to close provide assurance to both the buyer and the seller that the money is available for a sale to go through.

A mortgage commitment letter is a document that indicates a lender has reviewed your mortgage application and intends to give you a loan. You may receive two different types of mortgage commitment letters at various stages in the home-buying process.

• Conditional commitment letters mean that a lender has basically approved you for a loan but you must still meet certain conditions.
• Firm commitment letters are issued when the lender is ready to fully approve you for the loan after its underwriting process is complete.

Both types of commitment letters can include the same basic information. You should see the following details listed:

• Your name and the lender's name
• Address of the property you're buying
• Statement of pre-approval/approval
• Loan type and amount
• Interest rate
• Date of commitment

There should also be a disclaimer stating how long the terms of the commitment letter are good for and when it expires. If your lender requires you to pay a fee to move forward with a mortgage acceptance, that should also be detailed in your commitment letter.

Moving from conditional approval to full approval may depend on a range of factors, including the results of the home appraisal.

Clear to close means you've met all of the lender's requirements to obtain a mortgage and there are no further obstacles barring you from going to closing and purchasing a home. This is one of the last stages of the home-buying process, which often goes like this:

• Get a pre-approval letter from a mortgage lender
• Find a home and make an offer
• Complete a full mortgage application and provide the lender with the required supporting documentation
• Have the home appraised (the lender may arrange for this)
• Arrange for a home inspection and termite inspection if your lender or the locality requires them
• Secure homeowners insurance
• Obtain a firm mortgage commitment letter and clear to close
• Receive a final closing disclosure from the lender
• Complete a final walkthrough of the home

The closing disclosure is a formal document that includes all of the details of your loan. Your lender is required to provide this to you three business days before your closing is scheduled.

Once you have this document, you'll want to review it carefully to verify that all of the information is correct. This three-day window is also an opportunity to ask questions about anything in the disclosure that you don't understand.

The final walkthrough is an opportunity to look at the home once again to check for any issues or verify that necessary repairs have been completed. If you're satisfied that everything in the disclosure is correct and there are no issues with the home, you can move on to closing. At closing, you'll sign the loan paperwork and hand over funds for your down payment and closing costs .

Remember, you're not committed to the loan until you've signed the closing documents.

A mortgage commitment letter and a clear-to-close serve two different purposes in the home-buying process.

• Mortgage commitment letters signal a lender's intent to loan you money to purchase a home. This can give the seller confidence in your ability to go through with the transaction.
• A mortgage commitment letter may be conditional, meaning that you must meet some additional requirements before you can get a firm guarantee to receive funding.
• Clear to close means you've done everything the lender requires to obtain a mortgage and have been formally approved for financing.
• Until you've been cleared to close, a lender could still decide to deny your application for a mortgage, although the chances of that are exceptionally slim.

In terms of timing, the mortgage commitment letter comes first. You may get an initial prequalification or pre-approval letter before you fully apply for a mortgage, and then a commitment letter after the lender has completed most of the underwriting process. You'll need a mortgage commitment from the lender before you can be cleared to close.

Consider getting pre-approval quotes from a minimum of three lenders to compare mortgage rates and terms.

Both a mortgage commitment letter and clear to close are necessary for closing on your new home. The commitment letter shows how much you can borrow if all of the lender's conditions are satisfied.

Clear to close is confirmation that you've met all of those requirements. If there's a critical step you've missed, such as arranging for homeowners insurance or providing all of the income documentation the lender asked for, you won't be able to reach the clear to close stage without checking those items off.

Having a firm mortgage commitment letter in hand can be reassuring since you're more or less guaranteed to get a loan unless there's a drastic change in your situation. For example, losing your job could cause a lender to reevaluate whether you're a good candidate for a mortgage if there's any doubt about your ability to make the monthly payments.

Clear to close can also be a stress reliever, as it means the finish line is near. Again, unless something extreme occurs that directly affects your financial situation or the home you're buying is damaged by fire or a natural disaster, clear to close means there's nothing standing in the way of becoming a homeowner.

Is a Commitment Letter the Same as Pre-Approval?

Commitment letters and pre-approval letters are similar in that they both indicate that a lender is likely to be willing to grant you a loan of a certain amount. A commitment letter, however, particularly a firm one, is closer to a guarantee.

How Long Does It Take From Clear to Close to Actual Closing?

The gap from being cleared to close to the actual closing can take a few days or up to one week. You should receive your closing disclosure within three business days of the scheduled closing date. Keep in mind that even if a lender has fixed a closing date, it's subject to change until it actually happens.

What Happens After You Get a Commitment Letter?

That depends on whether the commitment letter is conditional and requires additional information. If it does, your next step is to supply whatever information the lender requires.

What Is the Fastest You Can Close on a House?

It can take anywhere from 30 to 45 days to close on a home after making an offer and completing a mortgage application. Organizing your paperwork beforehand and responding promptly to requests for documentation or other information from the lender can reduce the possibility of delays.

Is a Commitment Letter Legally Binding?

A mortgage commitment letter may or may not be legally binding on the lender, depending on the wording the lender uses. Conditional commitment letters usually require you to meet additional requirements before you can get a mortgage. If you receive a commitment letter and have questions about its legal status, you may want to consult an attorney.

Buying a home is a multi-step process, and it helps to know what to expect. Understanding the difference between a mortgage commitment letter and clear to close can eliminate confusion as you move through the process, from getting pre-approved to signing the closing documents and taking the keys to your new home.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. " Get a Preapproval Letter ."

Consumer FInancial Protection Bureau. “ What Is a Closing Disclosure? ”

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. " Closing Disclosure Explainer ."

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “ What Is Homeowner's Insurance? Why Is Homeowner's Insurance Required? ”

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