Writing a cover letter that stands out in 2025 requires a tailored approach, using specific examples, keywords, and a modern tone that aligns with the company’s culture and job requirements.
Here’s a comprehensive guide with examples to help you craft an effective, ATS-friendly cover letter.
1. Format Your Cover Letter Properly
A professional cover letter should follow a clear structure. Use a single page, ideally with standard 1-inch margins, a 10–12-point font, and appropriate spacing between sections.
Template Outline:
- Your Contact Information (Name, phone number, email)
- Date
- Hiring Manager’s Contact Information (Name, company name, address)
- Salutation: Address the hiring manager by name if possible (e.g., “Dear Ms. Smith”)
2. Start with a Compelling Introduction
In the first paragraph, introduce yourself, mention the role you’re applying for, and briefly state why you’re excited about the opportunity.
Example:
Dear Ms. Smith,
I am thrilled to apply for the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name]. With over six years of experience in digital marketing and a proven track record of driving online engagement, I am confident that my skills align well with the goals of [Company Name]. I admire [Company’s] dedication to innovative solutions, and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.
3. Highlight Relevant Experience and Achievements
The body paragraphs should focus on 1-2 key achievements or experiences. Use metrics where possible to showcase the impact of your work.
Example:
In my previous role at XYZ Marketing Agency, I led a campaign that increased our client’s social media engagement by 45% over six months. I achieved this by leveraging targeted ads, influencer partnerships, and a data-driven content strategy. This experience taught me the power of strategic planning, and I’m excited to bring this expertise to the [Marketing Team] at [Company Name].
4. Demonstrate Alignment with the Company’s Values
Show the hiring manager that you’ve researched the company and align with its mission, culture, or values.
Example:
I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]’s commitment to sustainability and community impact, as I believe businesses can drive positive change. At my last job, I spearheaded an initiative to source eco-friendly packaging, reducing waste by 30%. I look forward to contributing similar innovative ideas to your team.
5. Showcase Soft Skills and Cultural Fit
Hiring managers value candidates who align well with the company culture. Use examples to demonstrate soft skills like teamwork, adaptability, or problem-solving.
Example:
I thrive in collaborative environments and enjoy working alongside talented professionals to achieve common goals. In my current role, I co-led a cross-functional team to revamp our digital customer journey, improving customer satisfaction scores by 20%. I’m excited to bring my collaborative approach to [Company Name].
6. Close with a Strong Call to Action
In your closing paragraph, thank the hiring manager and express your eagerness to discuss how you can contribute to the team.
Example:
Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how my background in digital marketing and commitment to sustainability align with the goals of [Company Name]. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to schedule an interview.
Best Regards,
[Your Name]
7. Proofread and Optimize for ATS
Before sending, proofread carefully for any errors or typos. To make your cover letter ATS-friendly:
- Use keywords from the job description (e.g., specific skills, tools, job titles).
- Avoid images or graphics that could interfere with parsing.
- Use common headings and bullet points to increase readability.
Full Example of an ATS-Friendly Cover Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip]
[Your Email] | [Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Hiring Manager’s Name
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, Zip]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am excited to apply for the Project Manager position at [Company Name]. With over eight years of experience in managing large-scale projects and a passion for streamlining processes, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success. I admire [Company Name]’s commitment to innovation, and I look forward to bringing my expertise in project planning and cross-functional collaboration to your organization.
At [Previous Company], I successfully led a team of 10 in implementing a new project management tool that reduced project timelines by 25%. This involved coordinating with various departments, training staff, and resolving challenges to ensure a smooth transition. The experience taught me how to adapt quickly and deliver results under tight deadlines—a skill I am eager to bring to the Project Management Team at [Company Name].
Beyond my project management skills, I value effective communication and teamwork. I have a track record of fostering open communication among teams, which has consistently led to more efficient project outcomes. In my last role, I implemented weekly check-ins that increased project visibility and reduced bottlenecks by 30%.
Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills align with [Company Name]’s objectives. Please feel free to contact me to arrange an interview at your convenience.
Best regards,
[Your Name]